2017 04 21 by Roscommon People

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SOCIAL PEOPLE

21 April 2017

Pages 21 – 23

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 524

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Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

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People WATCHING Solstice Choir to receive award on Friday night The Epic People’s Choice Award presentation to Roscommon Solstice Choir which was originally scheduled for Friday, 7th of April

will now take place on Friday, 21st of April in Kilbride Community Centre at 7 pm. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome.

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newsbrief Grant-aid scheme a CCTV boost! Senator Maura Hopkins has said that the new grant-aid scheme made available by An Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald TD on Thursday last (13th of April) to assist community groups in establishing communitybased CCTV systems is very positive. Senator Hopkins stated: “I am aware that work is well underway in terms of establishing community-based CCTV systems in Roscommon Town and Ballaghaderreen. I would hope that this grant-aid scheme could benefit these communities and others across the region. “Under the scheme, eligible community groups can apply for grant-aid of up to 60% of the total capital cost of a proposed CCTV system, up to a maximum grant of €40,000. Upon approval of the grant, the applicant will receive an up-front payment of 50% of the grant with the balance to be paid when the system is fully operational.”

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Another Hip Replacement Recall – Smith & Nephew

Please forward curriculum vitae to Integrité Career Management Services at integritecareers@gmail.com. Interviews to be held in the coming weeks. Pictured are Shauna Loftus, Olivia Walsh, Brian Gonley and Johanna Hughes, sixth class students in Ballybay National School, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon, who received their certificate of participation from NUI Galway’s Youth Academy.

newsbrief Murphy on…that issue! Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy has welcomed the deal which has put an end to any plans for the introduction of water charges – and claimed that his party delivered on the saga after the Fine Gael leadership race “intervened.” Fianna Fáil, he said, has now “closed off the possibility of water charges” and secured in writing the deal which “was originally agreed two weeks ago before the FG leadership race intervened.” Deputy Murphy said that 92% of households will not pay any charges and the remaining 8% will have a chance to fix any leaks and reduce usage before being subject to fines – “if they waste water, they will be penalised.”

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Local students ‘graduate’ from NUI Galway NUI Galway recently conferred special certificates on the tenth cohort of ‘graduates’ from its Youth Academy. In total, 318 primary school children from across the West of Ireland received their certificates, with more than 1,000 friends and family attending the ceremony. Established in 2012, the Youth Academy aims to inspire entry to university by introducing primary school students and their families to university life. Since its foundation, over 2,500 students have graduated from a variety of courses on Saturday mornings ranging from Make your own Camera to Art, Engineering to Creative Writing, Cell-EXPLORERS to IT and Make your own Radio Show to Social Innovation.

Pictured is Brian Gonley, sixth class student in Ballybay National School, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon, who received his certificate of participation from NUI Galway’s Youth Academy.

Smith & Nephew, a medical device manufacturer, is one of the latest to issue a recall for all of its modular neck hip prostheses due to reports of adverse events. The company issued the recall for all lots of this component, which is used in its Modular REDAPT and Modular SMF Revision Femoral Hip Systems. The recall has been voluntarily issued by the company. Commenting on this development, leading litigation firm, Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors noted “In recent years, there was a global recall of the DePuy Orthopaedic ASR hip implant. Whilst the Smith & Nephew hip implant component recall is a recent development, metal implants have been the subject of safety concerns for several years. This is obviously of immense concern to those who underwent hip surgery in recent years. Our Litigation team have represented many of those affected by the DePuy Orthopaedic ASR recall. We understand the effect on patient’s lives and how upsetitng this can be for them, many of whom are elderly, especially in circumstances where revision surgery was required”. The recall was initiated following reports of higher than normal level of patient problems with the device. The metal components of the hip system, rubbing together, may cause metal fragments to flake off from the hip and irritate the surrounding tissue. This can cause pain, swelling, high levels of metal in the blood, and serious damage to tissue and bone. “Anyone with concerns should liaise with their GP and/or Orthopaedic Consultant. If they require legal advice specific to their situation please feel free to contact our Litigation team in confidence”. About Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Established in 1992, Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors are a leading Irish legal firm with clients served from offices in Dublin, Galway, Westmeath and Longford. The firm provides a wide range of legal services to clients including personal injury, cosmetic surgery negligence, medical negligence, motor accidents and cycling accidents. www. bccsolicitors.com *In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement. 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

(Right) Pictured is Shauna Loftus, sixth class student in Ballybay National School, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon, who received her certificate of participation from NUI Galway’s Youth Academy.

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Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NewsPeople

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

Sunday & Monday Great community spirit was in evidence again over the weekend as succesful Easter Parades were held in Roscommon and Strokestown, and Castlecoote hosted a hugely entertaining County Fleadh. I didn’t get to Strokestown but the reports are all positive; the town once again hosted a colourful and successful parade. Good weather was a bonus for everyone in Castlecoote/Fuerty where a very hard-working committee (under auspices of Athleague CCE branch) had pulled out all the stops in the build-up to the area hosting the County Fleadh for the first time. As expected, the event was a massive success, as Dan Dooner reports on page 15 of this week’s issue (photos on pages 8 & 15). I did attend the Roscommon Easter Parade and there was a terrific atmosphere and a huge crowd.

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A great many of the 50-plus floats/entrants could have won prizes but only five could be chosen and those winners were as follows – Best Commercial: Service Matters; Best Voluntary/Community: Roscommon Show; Most Entertaining: Roscommon Fire Service; Judges’ Special Award: McDermott’s Darts’ team, Castleplunkett; Overall winner: Class Grass (‘The Field’). Congratulations to all the wonderful volunteers involved in the various successful Easter Weekend events. By the way, Donald Trump remains a firm parade favourite. He featured in a number of floats, and was accompanied in one of them by what we can pretty safey conclude was a group of ‘Mexicans’ (every possible stereotype was included!). It was all good fun!

Every day… We had a peek, as we are inclined to do, at the most recent of those ‘Rich List’ features that the Sunday newspapers are so fond of. And, sure enough, a few very successful locals featured in the Sunday Independent ‘Top 300 in Ireland’ list. The Comer brothers from Glenamaddy started out as plasterers and are now big developers who are worth an estimated €1.05 billion! Declan Ganley, who was raised in the same neck of the woods as the Comers, is now worth an estimated €250m. Why bother going on Tonight with Vincent Browne? Aidan Heavey, from Castlerea, is worth about €63m – Aidan is the founder of Tullow Oil. Having exited Nama, Sean Mulryan, the Oranborn Rossie, is “very active on the Irish property market again.” He paid off debts of around €3bn and, according to the paper, is still worth about €50m. Owen Killian, from South Roscommon, recently stepped down as head of food giant Aryzta – his wealth is also estimated to be around €50m. That’s all the locals we could find on the list – needless to say there’s lots of Mayo multimillionaires! If you are a local multimillionaire and have inadvertently been omitted from this list, just send your details, scribbled across a number of €500 notes, to the Roscommon People – and we’ll update readers next week.

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

He’s done state some service: Vote for Jim! I was delighted to hear the news that Jim Callery, right, of Strokestown House (and Famine Museum) renown had been chosen for a major European Award. Jim has always been a good friend of the Roscommon media and, more importantly, of the wider community. What he and others have achieved in Strokestown over the decades is simply phenomenal and will impact positively long into the future.

When a cousin of mine from London and some friends of his visited Roscommon a few years ago, I brought them to Strokestown Famine Museum. Two thoughts stayed with me after the visit: (A) How fascinated they were by the famine museum and (B) the sense that many of us in Roscommon almost certainly don’t fully appreciate how remarkable and truly historic a place it is. If you haven’t visited, you have to put

that right this summer! Jim Callery is a Roscommon hero and a man who has done the Irish State some service. He has not only been chosen for a coveted Europa Nostra Award, he is also a nominee for the Public Choice Award 2017. Readers can vote for Jim (there is also the chance to win a trip for two to Finland!). You can cast your vote by visiting http://vote. europanostra.org/ (voting closes on the 3rd of May).

Clowning around… This week’s ‘Random imposter near the office’ award was won on Tuesday. The ‘Different ways to stress a parent’ award had already been won minutes earlier, when I was asked by one of our daughters if I could collect her from home and bring her to the train, which, needless to say, was already about to leave the station. So I popped out of the office in the hope that there would be no traffic hold-ups in Abbey Street. Good start: I had a clear view left and right. No lorries, no men with drills…no deliveries…

There was no sign of T. Hill either… the legendary painter had been working halfway up Abbey Street on Monday (it’s always a pleasure to meet ‘T’). Then, what seemed like a perfectly normal landscape, changed just a little. All of a sudden a clown arrived on the scene…a clown, in full clown garb, cycling a very low, very colourful ‘clown’s bike’. He arrived from the direction of the old Tax Office. I looked at him just as he approached our office. The clown cycled in a very leisurely manner on his tiny bike, looking around

him like any other tourist might marvel at our delightful Abbey Street. This whirlwind of colours – clown and bike – continued its way up the street. As clowns go, he was acting quite normally. ‘How are ye?’ he shouted into Igoe’s Butchers, as he passed. Then he looked at me and said ‘How are ye? to which, oddly enough, I replied ‘How are ye?’ With that, he was gone, peddling into the distance, and I still don’t know whether the low-key, low-cycling clown was advertising the circus or escaping from it.

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway Eugene Murphy has welcomed the fact that improvement works have been carried out at Scramogue Cross. He says this is as a result of his continued efforts to highlight the need for upgrading works on the N5. Deputy Murphy recently raised the matter with the Minister for Transport Shane Ross as numerous accidents have occurred along this stretch of road from Tarmonbarry to Ballaghaderreen. “I am delighted to see that recent improvement works have been carried out at Scramogue Cross and a number of signs have been replaced and repositioned which will help to improve visibility lines. “I will continue to work with the Local Authority in a bid to have a collision history of Scramogue Cross carried out as this will be necessary to prepare costings, feasibility study, etc., for road safety improvements at this location,” concluded Deputy Murphy.

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Pictured is Ruth Donoghue (11), from Tarmonbarry, a winner in this year’s 63rd Texaco Children’s Art Competition. She is pictured with her prize-winning work entitled ‘Tiger Lily’ alongside her mother Catherine, brother Mark (10) and father Michael.

Roscommon students win in Texaco Art Competition Three Roscommon students have won top prizes in this year’s 63rd Texaco Children’s Art Competition. In the 9-11 years age category, second prize (€200 Art & Hobby gift voucher) went to Rachel Glynn (11), from Scoil Bhríde, Four Mile House, for her work entitled ‘My Grandad’ while third prize (€150 Art & Hobby gift voucher) in the 9-11 years age category went to Ruth

Donoghue (11), from Tarmonbarry, for her work entitled ‘Tiger Lily’. Another winner from Roscommon, who will receive a Special Merit Award, is Tia Fox (17), from Roscommon Community College, Lisnamult. Prizes will be presented at an awards ceremony in Dublin next month when all of the 126 top prize-winners will be in attendance.

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NewsPeople Murphy welcomes progress at Scramogue Cross

Progress on providing education for Syrian refugees in Ballaghaderreen Senator Maura Hopkins says educational services are being provided for refugees at the Emergency Reception and Orientation Centre in Ballaghaderreen. She says it’s the responsibility of the Galway Roscommon Educational Training Board (GRETB) which has received special funding through Solas for the provision of primary and secondary school services along with adult language and orientation classes. “GRETB estimated they would require three classrooms for children, two primary and one secondary school classroom. They provided Dept. of Education specifications to the contractor for those

classrooms. Three former apartments in the block attached to the hotel have been completely gutted and are being reconfigured to meet these guidelines.” Senator Hopkins added: “I have been advised by Dept. of Justice Officials that the teachers have been appointed and are waiting to take up their posts. Funding has also been secured for classroom furniture and equipment and these are being procured at the moment, which is very positive. “I have been informed by the Dept of Justice Officials that these three classrooms are due to be ready for takeover by the GRETB this week.”

Callaghan: ‘Support needed for factory employees’

Pictured is Rachel Glynn (11), from Scoil Bhríde, Four Mile House, a winner in this year’s 63rd Texaco Children’s Art Competition. She is pictured with her prize-winning work entitled ‘My Grandad’ alongside her mother Sarah.

Cllr. Liam Callaghan has said the news that the ECMI cigar manufacturing company in Ballaghaderreen is set to close later this year has come as a major shock to the town and the 38 employees of the company (see page 10). Cllr. Callaghan visited the plant last Friday with Senator Maura Hopkins and there they met management and some members of staff. Management have explained that market forces were forcing the company to

relocate to Sri Lanka. According to Cllr. Callaghan, members of staff were clearly upset by the sudden announcement during his recent visit. Cllr. Callaghan said: “Every effort should be made to look after the dedicated staff, both with redundancy and retraining should an alternative employer locate at this facility.” He added: “Government agencies need to engage immediately with the company to explore what

measures can be taken to defer the closure of this plant. “We have heard a lot of talk about revitalising rural Ireland and Ballaghaderreen is a typical rural town that has taken major hits in both employment and emigration over the past twenty years. Cllr. Callaghan concluded by saying: “There is a strong community spirit in Ballaghaderreen and the Government need to act in order to ensure that that spirit continues.”

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NewsPeople

WILL IT OR WON’T IT? Health Centre in Ballaghaderreen IS open again FRANTIC TALKS, RUMOURS AND THEN A QUICK RE-OPENING  PAUL HEALY

After a week of further controversy and uncertainty about its future, St. Joseph’s Mental Health Day Centre in Ballaghaderreen was re-opened by an under-fire HSE yesterday (Wednesday). When the centre closed on April 4th last, it was claimed that the closure was a temporary one – and, while the HSE has been good to its word, there was frantic to-ing and fro-ing in recent days, with Senator Maura Hopkins initially claiming that the centre would not be re-opening, and both Senator Hopkins and Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice firing angry broadsides in the direction of the HSE. On Tuesday, the HSE moved to assure the public that the centre would re-open on Wednesday. It remains to be seen if its long-term future is secure. The latest series of twists in the saga peaked over the weekend with Senator Hopkins saying she had been told by a number of individuals that management had told them that the centre would be remaining closed. Expressing deep anger, Senator Hopkins accused the HSE of misleading local politicians and called for an immediate meeting with

Tony Canavan, Head of Community Care in Roscommon. Responding to the reports of a permanent closure, Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice issued a very strong statement in criticism of the HSE. On Tuesday, the HSE moved to clarify the position. The HSE said that a preliminary health

and safety inspection of the premises was conducted during the temporary closure. Several concerns were raised, including the lack of fire detectors. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors were installed on Tuesday. The HSE said: “An estimate of remedial works is currently being drawn up. It will then be reviewed by

the HSE head of service for mental health.” The reference to a ‘review’ has been noted by Deputy Fitzmaurice, who warns that he remains unconvinced about the long-term status of the facility. Re-opening the facility yesterday (Wednesday), the HSE have thanked service users and their families for their patience and support – and apologised for any inconvenience caused. Senator Hopkins met with Mr. Tony Canavan on Tuesday. She said that Mr. Canavan made it clear that the closure of St. Joseph’s Mental Health Day Centre was temporary. She told him that people need confidence and certainty in their local mental health services. “This confidence and certainty has been eroded with the miscommunication being given over the past number of days. This is not good enough” the Fine Gael Senator said. Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice welcomed news of the re-opening but said he still has grave doubts about the future of the facility. He has called on the HSE and Minister Helen McEntee to give categoric guarantees on the future of the facility.

Hopkins makes her case to Canavan During her meeting with Tony Canavan on Wednesday, Senator Maura Hopkins emphasised that it is essential that mental health services continue to be based in Ballaghaderreen. “I discussed with him the need for implementation of ‘A Vision for Change’ which is built on a foundation of delivering community-based mental health services – not centralising centres.” Senator Hopkins added: “I made it clear to Mr. Canavan the need to ensure mental health services continue to be based in Ballaghaderreen to support the people in this area. It is critical that we provide the best possible mental health service for the people in Ballaghaderreen and surrounding areas. “I also discussed with Mr. Canavan the need for the external report into mental health services to be made available as quickly as possible. “This report should provide a comprehensive, detailed and thorough analysis of the service, along with recommendations for improvements.”

Blackberry Hearing – dedicated to changing lives for the better More than two and half years ago, John Ryan and Dave Gleeson worked in a shared office complex in the small, charming village of Two Mile House, County Kildare. John and Dave’s business interests overlapped because they were members of the same business angel syndicate, a group that supported young technology companies with investment and expertise. Conversation and banter at a mid-morning coffee break one day led to a discussion on hearing aid prices. The matter arose when Dave produced a magazine article asking why hearing aids were more expensive than laptop computers. As they investigated further, Dave and John felt they could use their business expertise to offer a much more affordable hearing solution with a focus on customer care this marked the birth of Blackberry Hearing.

The beginning The company started in 2015 by offering quality hearing aids at significantly lower prices than those available in the market. Prior to entering the market, Blackberry Hearing’s market research found that there was significant consumer dissatisfaction with pricing and after-care service. Added to this, the company found that many available audiologists had undergone just several weeks training by the companies seeking to employ them. In contrast, Blackberry Hearing chooses to employ only fully qualified, degree level audiologists. The difference was instantly recognisable, with customers attesting to the high quality of the Blackberry Hearing consultation. As a result, John and Dave feel their decision has significantly enhanced the hearing solution of their customers.

Company philosophy The focus for Blackberry Hearing has been on providing quality service, affordability, price transparency, and simplicity. Ultimately, this all amounts to 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. From the outset, the company has set to demystify the process of acquiring hearing aids. Many of their prospective customers talked of how they had been unsure previously of pricing and felt under pressure to buy the most expensive hearing aids. Blackberry Hearing offers just two models with two prices and clearly outlines to prospective customers the end price before they start the consultation. This transparency has been a cornerstone of the company’s philosophy.

With its new Dinamico product range offering the latest available features, the company has adopted a variation of the old Ronseal slogan: ‘We do exactly as it says on the tin’.

Changing lives for the better The primary focus of John, Dave and their dedicated team at Blackberry Hearing is on improving the lives of the individuals in their care. This is the main reason the company was founded, and it remains the most rewarding aspect of the entire venture to those who

deliver this service. “Research shows that people with hearing loss retreat from social interaction with family, friends, and colleagues with drastic results on their mental wellbeing. Changing people’s lives for the better at an affordable price is a really good feeling,” John says. Rita Foley, audiologist with Blackberry Hearing, says: “As an audiologist, it is my aim to provide the best possible service I can in terms of both the clinical assessment and vitally the care the customer receives. One reason I

am delighted to work for Blackberry Hearing is because they tick all the key boxes. “With its affordable prices and customer care philosophy, I can offer a very reliable and good customer care service, ensuring that each customer remains very happy with both their hearing aids and their new hearing experience.” Providing quality hearing solutions at about 40 per cent of the price of other retailers has meant that hundreds of people, who may otherwise have been unable to afford hearing aids, have had their

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Before and after customer care With its strong customer care philosophy, Blackberry Hearing has expanded rapidly throughout rural Ireland, collaborating with pharmacies, opticians, and GPs to hold regular clinics. The business offers free follow-up care by appointment for the hearing aid lifetime. This is very reassuring for new and experienced users of hearing aids alike. With more than 50 clinics nationwide, the company hopes to expand further. Its simple customer first philosophy is paying off as positive customer referrals are contributing to a growing portion of the company’s customers. All consultations are free and Blackberry Hearing offers a 100 per cent refund if a customer feels their hearing solution does not meet expectations.

lives changed for the better. So there you have it - the very best treatment, at the very best prices, by the best and most dedicated professionals in the field. It is little wonder that Blackberry Hearing continues to go from strength to strength. Locally, you can book a free hearing test and full consultation at McGorisk’s Pharmacy, Clonbrusk, Athlone on (090) 6470001 or at Dolan’s Medical Hall, Main Street, Moate on (090) 6481115. Alternatively, simply call Blackberry Hearing directly on (01) 6978470.

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Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

LAMB FESTIVAL NEWSDESK ... LAMB FESTIVAL NEWSDESK ...LAMB FESTIVAL NEWSDESK ... Countdown to Lamb Festival continues… Tenth instalment kicks off next Wednesday! The Roscommon Lamb Festival is just days away and preparations are in full swing for one of Roscommon’s most popular events! The tenth annual Lamb Festival will officially open at Roscommon Mart next Wednesday (26th) with music and continue right through to Bank Holiday Monday (May 1st). Some of the highlights of this year’s festival include: the official opening by IFA Chairman, Joe Healy on Wednesday; ‘Animal Farm’ by Roscommon Youth Theatre on Thursday and Friday; a leather design worskshop with Úna Burke on Saturday; International Sheepdog Trials on Sunday; Family Fun Day at Loughnaneane Park also on Sunday as well as local heritage events throughout the week, including walks through Roscommon town, St. John’s Wood and Rindoon next Saturday. This year’s Roscommon Lamb Festival promises to be the biggest and best yet with something for the whole family to enjoy. It will also highlight the very best Roscommon has to offer and the festival atmosphere will continue all weekend in venues throughout the county.

Pallets for Lamb Festival competitors Pallets are available for competitors wishing to take part in a valuable upcycling competition taking place as part of Roscommon Lamb Festival next week. The pallets are available for collection in Roscommon town for anyone wishing to take part in the competition. A valuable prize fund of €500 is available for this year’s competitions thanks to sponsors Murray Timber of Ballygar. To arrange collection of a pallet or pallets, contact Kathleen Shanagher on 086-3726743, or Sandra Kenny on 087-2352315.

Limestone Heritage talk at Lamb Festival The Roscommon Lamb Festival will be officially opened by IFA

The Roscommon Lamb Festival float pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

President, Joe Healy, next Wednesday (April 26th) at Roscommon Livestock Mart at 11.30 am. On Thursday (27th), a conference titled ‘The Limestone Heritage of Roscommon’ will take place at 10 am in Roscommon Library. The conference will commence with a lecture by renowned author and lecturer, Dr. John Feehan, who has been described by journalist Michael Viney as “one of Ireland’s top ecologists and communicators of nature.” The conference will begin in the County Library before continuing with field trips to a number of sites of interest. Registration is necessary on 087-6546512.

ned Locally ow rt of ... in the hea nity the commu

Proud to be ofﬁcial media partners for Roscommon Lamb Festival 2017

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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ROSCOMMON PEOPLE …supporting MILES FOR OUR BOYS BLOG: MILES FOR OUR BOYS This week: Sinead Gannon Carr My name is Sinéad Gannon Carr. I run marathons for fun, yes fun! It may seem like a totally mad concept but I promise it’s a great hobby. I am resident coach to Roscommon Harriers. I have been running since I was 5, so I have over 30 years’ experience. I am also a qualified athletics coach, fitness instructor and personal trainer. So far, I have completed sixteen marathons and one ultra-marathon and this year will be my sixth Dublin Marathon in a row. But this year will be different because this one is for Sinéad (second left) was pictured at the recent launch of Miles For Archie and ‘Miles for Our Boys’. Our Boys with Jade Kiernan, Amanda Bishop and Monica Lyons. I am here to help all those running for this Picture: Andrew Fox

great cause. I will provide marathon training plans from those at the beginner stage to the more advanced. These plans have been tried and tested over the years and will get you to the finish line of this year’s Dublin Marathon. I will also be there to provide motivation, encouragement, advice and support. And last but not least, I will be your friend along the way because the marathon journey takes guts and dedication. Archie is my boss this year along with my three other running buddies. Our marathon plan will centre around Archie and what the main man needs. He will be also be supported by Frank Murphy, Tonya Hand and another mystery man, all of whom will aid Archie on his 26.2 miles. To make this successful we need you. And don’t worry if you are a total beginner, we will take you there. The following is a brief snapshot of week

one of a beginner’s marathon programme, which will start in the first week of May: Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday Sunday:

Rest 1 mile 1 mile 1 mile Rest 1 mile 1 mile

So it’s that easy! To start this unique journey with Archie all you need to do is to walk the first mile and we will build your training over the next 26 weeks. If you would like to be part of this amazing journey or have any questions, don’t hesitate in contacting the team on our Facebook page, ‘Miles for Our Boys.’ Your coach, Sinead x

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Niamh, Teresa and Teresa Cunningham. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Michael Sheerin, Frances Harlow and Tom Harlow. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Ann O’Brien, Aidan Farrell and Amy Moore. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last were Lorna, Jamie, Shauna and Mason Murphy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last were Adam, Josh and Tom Óg Reddington. Picture: Andrew Fox

Turning sod on water scheme extension! A sod-turning ceremony will be held on Monday next (April 24th) to mark the start of construction on the extension of the Lough Mask Water Supply Scheme in County Mayo to Ballinlough and Williamstown. Senator Frank Feighan told the Roscommon People that the project involves a €10 million investment by Irish Water. Both the Ballinlough and Williamstown water supplies are on the EPA’s Remedial Action List while the Ballinlough scheme has been on a boil water notice since January 2016. Senator Feighan: “The extension of the Lough Mask water supply to these two areas will ensure a clean and secure supply of water for the 5,000 consumers on the two supplies and allow the removal of the Ballinlough consumers from the boil water notice.” The sod-turning event takes place on Monday, 24th of April at the The Friary, Abbey Street, Friarsground in Ballyhaunis.

Letter to the Editor

Donors can save lives and cut waiting lists Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon Dear Editor, I do not wish for my name and address to be published, but wish to raise an issue concerning the story on page 33 of Roscommon People dated 7th of April last. The story of David Beirne and his wish for a kidney donation touched something in me, and I enquired to the Irish Kidney Association about finding out if I was a possible match. Unlike the UK, here in Ireland altruistic kidney donation is not possible. I am not saying I would have been a match for Mr. Beirne, but maybe someone would be? Due to the nature of the donation I don’t think there would be queues of donors, but maybe those who have considered it and are willing should be accepted. Why is something which saves lives and cuts waiting lists not possible? I carry a donor card, I’m a blood donor and registered marrow donor – why do I have to wait to die before I can help someone like Mr. Beirne or the hundreds or thousands in the same situation? Yours sincerely, Name with Editor

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Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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CIGAR COMPANY LEAVING BALLAGHADERREEN: Calls for Minister to come to rescue  PAUL HEALY

The loss of 38 jobs at Exclusive Cigar Manufacturers in Ballaghaderreen has stunned the local community. Pressure is now mounting on Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor to lead a jobs recovery in the town. The cigar-manufacturing factory has been in existence in the town for forty years, having opened in 1978. For years it was run by well-known local businessman Gerry O’Dowd and was a significant and reliable employment provider in the area. The company only changed hands three months ago but now the new owners have indicated that they are moving operations to Sri Lankia. Politicians were quick to react to the news. Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins and Cllr. Liam Callaghan met with management at the company last Friday. Senator Maura Hopkins said: “J. Cortes’ management advised us that they are making plans to move their newly-acquired cigar manufacturing operations from Ballaghaderreen to one of their existing plants in Sri Lanka. With the new acquisition and their stated public intention for a smooth transition of ownership back in January, we were led to believe that the future of this facility was secure. These hopes now have been dashed by this news.” The company has said it wishes to engage in consultation with staff before issuing redundancy notifications from May 15th. They also claim the purpose of this consultation is to explore any alternatives to the proposed closure of the factory which would result in the redundancy of all 38 employees. Senator Hopkins has been in touch with Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor in relation to

n Ballaghaderree nt me Chamber sgtonaThteursday, 13th of April wbeithr and the

am eetin “Following a m from the Ballaghaderreen Ch that ECMI Ltd. es ed tiv rm ta fo en in ere repres the Chamber w with the loss of owners of ECMI, the plant in Ballaghaderreen intend to close aderreen cigars in Ballaghr the g rin tu 38 jobs. ac uf an ons fo been m “ECMI Ltd have rding to the company, the reas ely competitive em co tr Ac . ex e 78 th 19 e to e sinc ly and the e the plant is du decision to clos environment for cigars globaloperations in g g manufacturin small-scale manufacturin . disadvantage of producing own label cigars e requesting a Ballaghaderreenen Chamber of Commerce ar all stakeholders, “Ballaghaderreset up immediately involving y Mitchell ar task force to be ter for Jobs and Innovation M common County including Minis ter of State Michael Ring, Roswell as local O’Connor, Minis s, Senator Maura Hopkins as Council, local TD rs and Enterprise Ireland. maintain county councilloe must urgently take action to attracting new “This task forc ployment for these 38 jobs by the ongoing em stry to Ballaghaderreen.” alternative indu

The cigar-manufacturing factory has been in existence in Ballaghaderreen for forty years, having opened in 1978 the 38 job losses and the negative impact it will have on them and the town of Ballaghaderreen. “I have made it very clear to the Minister that we need strong leadership from her and her Department in order to secure continued or alternative employment for these 38 workers.” Senator Hopkins has also spoken with Minister for Social Protection, Leo Varadkar in relation to state supports and re-training options that his Department can provide. Senator Hopkins called on all state agencies

PUBLIC NOTICES

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the period and the reason specified. Roads to be closed: L 14253 (Cul de Sac) at its eastern end for a distance of 350 metres in the townland of Ballyduffy, Strokestown. Period of Closure:

From Sunday 30th April, 2017 to Friday 30th June, 2017

Reason for Closures: To facilitate construction of Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Eugene Dwyer Head of Roads & Transportation Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

along with Roscommon County Council now prioritise the town of Ballaghaderreen. Describing the job losses as a huge jobs blow to the region, Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice said he is seeking a meeting with management of the plant to find out what their exact plans are for the closure and for the premises going forward. “The fact that the redundancies will come into effect starting as early as May 15th gives little time for the planned consultation with the employees at the plant” he noted.

Deputy Fitzmaurice added: “The closure of one of the biggest private employers in West Roscommon is a huge shock to the economy of the area and a massive blow to the 38 people involved. “I am calling on jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor to make an immediate statement on the matter. I will also be asking that Enterprise Ireland and the IDA prioritise the Ballaghaderreen area for alternative and additional employment as soon as possible.”

Politicians turn heat on Minister Mitchell O’Connor Fianna Fáil Deputy Eugene Murphy said he will be calling on Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar to put a team together to visit the Ballaghaderreen area and consult with employees about their future options. “My thoughts are with the employees, management and their families who now face an uncertain future. Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor needs to urgently address the imbalance of employment opportunities in rural Ireland. The Government needs to get serious about creating viable and sustainable employment options for the regions.” Senator Frank Feighan has also highlighted the jobs threat with Minister Mitchell O’Connor. “Against the backdrop of the threat to jobs at Exclusive Cigar Manufacturers Ireland, I have urged the Minister to engage with

all the relevant agencies in order to further sharpen the focus on Ballaghaderreen and North Roscommon in terms of attracting jobs and investment. “The news that 38 people in Ballaghaderreen are facing redundancy next month with the proposed closure of this plant is extremely sad news and potentially a devastating blow for employees and their families. “This company has been part of the fabric of this town for almost forty years and its closure would severely impact on the community and local economy. “The company has said there will be a consultation period to explore any alternatives to the planned closure. In that context, we must do all we can and ensure the welfare of the employees are top priority during these conJobs Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor sultations.”

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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Easter Rising commemorated in Drum and Elphin T

he 1916 Rising was commemorated at two venues by the Co. Roscommon IRA Commemoration Committee on Easter Sunday last. The main ceremony took place in Drum cemetery at the grave of Bernard Gaffey. Bernard Gaffey died as a result of an attack by

Black and Tans in 1921. The parade to the cemetery was led by a Colour Party and the Raheen Pipe Band. The Proclamation was read by Sean Scott, Ballyforan, the Roscommon Roll of Honour was called by Frank Dowd, Croghan, and the Easter Statement from

the Republican Movement was read by Stephen French, Lisacull. Among the wreathes laid at the grave was one on behalf of the relatives of Barney Gaffey which was laid by his grandnephew John Griffin. Henry Owens, Strokestown, outlined the circumstances of

how Barney Gaffey met his death and Sean Dolan, Kiltoom, delivered an oration. Tommy Morris, Kiltoom, chaired proceedings. In the morning there was a wreath-laying ceremony at the War for Independence IRA memorial at Shankill, Elphin.

Roscommon Easter Parade

Garden Design event at Ardcarne this Saturday There will be a Garden Design Event at Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle, on Saturday April 22th 11.30 am till 12.30 am. Join Jane McCorkell, Landscape Designer and multi-Gold Medal Winner at Bloom Flower Show for some great design tips and discover which plants she finds essential in her award winning gardens. Free event. All Welcome

newsbrief Carers’ Mayday Mini Marathon! The Roscommon Carers’ Mini Marathon will take place on Bank Holiday Monday (May 1st) in Roscommon town. The Mini Marathon will start at 3 pm at Hannon’s Hotel and registration costs €15 with a family or team of four costing €50. ‘Care to Run’ is a fun, family-friendly day out and will feature both 5K and 10K routes with some great prizes on offer. So round off your Bank Holiday Weekend with a run, jog or walk in the fresh air while supporting a very worthy cause! Register with Family Carers Ireland by clicking on www. familycarers.ie, www.runireland.com or by contacting 090 6627698.

Spring Clean time in Kilteevan! Kilteevan Tidy Towns’ spring clean will be held this Saturday, 22nd of April 2017, 10 am-12 pm. Meet at Kilteevan Community Centre. Light refreshments will be served. Please come and support your local community.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Garden Design Event with Jane McCorkell Saturday 22nd April

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Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NewsPeople newsbriefs Roscommon Camogie Cookery Demonstration Co. Roscommon Camogie are hosting a Cookery Demonstration with Celebrity Chef Frank Moynihan on Monday, 24th of April in Hodson Bay Hotel at 8 pm. Tickets are €10. Tickets can be obtained from any of the following people: Imelda Quinn, Bernie Mulry, Claire Curley, Patricia Lennon, Padraig Dooley, Fiona Connell, Mairead Conway, John Haughey, Geraldine Greene. The Hodson Bay is sponsoring the event. Your support would be appreciated as all funds raised will be used to defray part of the costs of County Minor and County Junior teams.

Blood Donation Clinic in Roscommon A Blood Donation Clinic will take place at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon Town on Tuesday, 25th, Wednesday, 26th and Thursday, 27th of April from 5 pm to 8.30 pm. All support is greatly appreciated.

Gaelic4Mothers and Others to resume Gaelic4Mothers and Others will start next Monday, 24th of April at 9 am in Castlerea. This initiative allows past players and those who have never played before to play gaelic football in a fun, non-competitive environment. This is a great social outlet and a fun way of getting some exercise. For more information, contact 087-2522231. This is a ladies football initiative.

Volunteers sought for Friendly Phone Service Friendly Phone Service in Ballygar, Toghergar and Newbridge are seeking volunteers for a minimum of one morning a month from 10 am-11 am. You would be part of a team of volunteers providing a phone call to those living alone and providing the recipients of the call with a chance to speak to others, get local community news and check on their wellbeing. If interested, please contact Teresa on 087-4502761.

Special Mass for Healing A Special Mass for Healing the Family Tree will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, Athlone on Thursday, 27th of April, commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr. John Walsh. Confessions will be available from 7 pm prior to Holy Mass and individual blessings for healing will take place after Mass. All are most welcome. For further details, contact 086-4054489.

Pictured attending the Donamon Dynamos fundraising cycle for the Sunshine Rooms in Creggs National School were some of the participating cyclists with Caoimhe Dowd. Picture: Andrew Fox

Donamon Dynamos’ fundraising cycle for Sunshine Rooms at Creggs NS…

Pictured attending the Donamon Dynamos fundraising cycle for the Sunshine Rooms in Creggs National School were Gemma Kane and Tamara Connor. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured attending the Donamon Dynamos fundraising cycle for the Sunshine Rooms in Creggs National School were Cian Dolan, Peter McConn, Finbar O’Reilly, Gerry Kenny and Aidan Collins. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured attending the Donamon Dynamos fundraising cycle for the Sunshine Rooms in Creggs National School were Bernie Cuddy, Willie Hegarty and Mark Keavaney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Sinéad Kelly and Alan Taylor. Picture: Andrew Fox

Social dancing in Kilteevan Kilteevan Community Centre is the place to be tomorrow night (Friday) as the Liam Mannering Band provide the music for what promises to be a wonderful evening of social dancing. Admission is €10 and there will be refreshments and a free raffle on the night.

GAA table quiz at Kilronan Castle The Ballroom Bar at Kilronan Castle in association with Cúram (Centre for Research in Medical Devices) will play host to a GAA table quiz next Tuesday evening (25th of April) at 8 pm. Entry is free with light refreshments served and top prizes awarded to the winning teams.

Pictured attending the Donamon Dynamos fundraising cycle for the Sunshine Rooms in Creggs National School were Gerry Grant, Michael Harte, David Mulrooney and Edward Scanlon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured attending the Donamon Dynamos fundraising cycle for the Sunshine Rooms in Creggs National School were Teresa McKeague and Crystal. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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NEWSâ&#x20AC;Śat a glance Matt in Momaâ&#x20AC;Ś Spotted dining in that lovely Italian restaurant, Moma, in Roscommon on Sunday was MEP Matt Carthy of Sinn FĂŠin. Matt and friends enjoyed a meal in the popular Main Street eaterie. Matt is a native of County Monaghan but has the strongest of Strokestown roots (his father, also Matt, was born there, and many relations live in the area). MEP Carthy, a rising star within Sinn FĂŠin, was in Roscommon on Easter Sunday to attend Sinn FĂŠin Easter Commemoration ceremonies.

Roscommon Emergency Services Open Day No go for Joe! Roscommon-born artist Joe Caslin (pictured) has been refused permission to proceed with a project whereby he would have an image of an asylum seeker placed on the gable wall of Ă ras an UachtarĂĄin. It is understood that the request was denied because of Ă ras an UachtarĂĄinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s status as a protected building.

Seanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s man moves on! Rossie Sean Mulryan, the multimillionaire developer who has bounced back admirably after the not so great recession, will now have to plot future business forays without right-hand man Paul Keogh. Keogh was a wise counsel to Mulryan at Ballymore over many years but is now going out on his own, starting a specialist firm which will impart â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;family business advice.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Maybe Oran native Sean will keep in touch with his departing guru!

The emergency services in Roscommon Town are holding an open day on 6th of May in the Fire Station. On the day the public will be invited to attend and meet members from An Garda Siochana, the Fire Service, the Ambulance Service and the Civil Defence. It will also be an opportunity to see the Garda vehicles, ambulances and fire brigades up close. The RSA roadshow will also be present with their car and bike simulators and also their roll-over car. It is hoped that the Garda Mounted Unit and Garda Dog Unit will also be in attendance and possibly the Garda Helicopter also. All are welcome.

In praise of Forest Park The Irish Independentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Weekend magazine recently included a Roscommon location in its â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;top five familyfriendly Irish cycles.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Readers were advised: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kids love Lough Key Forest Park. But when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re finished with the Boda Borg or Adventure Play Kingdom, there are 8km of trails to enjoy on two wheels. There are no steep hills, and you can choose from a short loop on the lakeshore or a longer one that heads into the woods.â&#x20AC;?

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Orla Dillon and Andrea Connolly. Picture: Andrew Fox

To send news to your local newspaperâ&#x20AC;Śemail news@roscommonpeople.ie ROSCOMMON PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NETWORK

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Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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Fr om My Kitchen Table MIRIAM KERINS

Is being violently ‘bumped’ off an airline the ‘new normal’?

nited Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz is feeling “ashamed” – and so he should following the now infamous Gestapo-style removal of one of its paying passengers, (an elderly man), Dr. David Dao, who was forcibly ejected from a United Express flight last week – rendering the organisation to plummet into a PR chasm so deep it’ll probably never recover. And that is a shame for the decent, low-paid, hard-working staff employed by the organisation. However, thanks to the power of social media, we all bore witness to the horrific video footage of the violent incident which occurred as the flight was preparing to leave O’Hare International in Chicago, resulting in worldwide outrage and calls for Munoz’s resignation… something which, at the time of writing, he was still refusing to offer. You see, in their own little minds, United had good reason to bully and beat an elderly

man, and last week, as the geniuses working in their damage control department hastily huddled together to explain this horrendous treatment of a peaceful passenger, one who was not posing a threat to others, or to the airline, the explanation was that ’a seat was needed for a commuting crew member, and no one had volunteered to leave the plane. Dr. Dao was one of several chosen at random to leave the flight.’ Now, as the Chicago Department of Aviation say the incident was “not in accordance with our standard operating procedure,” and that hauling an already seated client off a flight was “obviously not condoned by the department” it is however, apparently commonplace for airlines to overbook due to an expected ‘no show rate,’ which is industry terminology for passengers who book and then, for whatever reason, fail to arrive and board their flight. So far, so good; I can under-

stand overbooking is a strategy which can apply to an airline’s commercial selling. However, if a passenger is refused entry to an oversold flight for which the airline has already accepted payment, then there is a contract in place and it’s up to the airline to take responsibility and look after them, not beat the c**p out of them! However, strangely United Airlines is not the worst offender… when it comes to over-booking and bouncing passengers off a flight that is – although their egregious ejection of Dr. Dao renders them as possibly the most violent – with approximately 67,000 people being ejected from their carriers last year due to over-booking, as opposed to, for example, the likes of Delta Air Lines ejecting 131,063, and Southwest Airlines ejecting 103,607. And so readers, if like me, you’re planning a little holiday this year; here’s something

to bear in mind when booking your flight. According to Ryanair, ‘Unlike other airlines, Ryanair does not overbook flights,’ that’s good to know, although for personal reasons I no longer travel with this carrier. According to Aer Lingus, “As with all other airlines, our flights can be overbooked from time to time,’ however, they add, occurrences “are rare and in such an event we seek volunteers to travel on the next available flight and compensate the volunteers accordingly. Our procedure is to deal with these matters at the point of checking-in in order to minimise any disruption to our guests.” Well folks, Aer Lingus and Ryanair’s industry examples, which appear to be exemplary, are certainly a far cry from what we all witnessed occurring on United Airline’s Flight 3411 where heavy-handed goons bullied and beat an elderly gentleman, resulting in the ‘loss of two front teeth and a broken nose.’

I can tell you, United Airlines are lucky that the roughed-up passenger wasn’t my father, ‘cos not only would a law suit be a certainty – mind you due to their shares plummeting by $1.4 billion there wouldn’t be much left to fight for –but

I’d go ballistic on them too. As for Munoz, well, due to his insensitive, snivelling apology, I’d render him and his thugs’ credibility so low they’d all be lucky to get jobs cleaning bird poo from car windscreens!

Rescue 116 – digniﬁed heroes Disgusting r u o n o k c a t t a Gardaí “We’re gone.” Two final, heartbreaking words, delivered with such calmness and such resigned dignity signalled the end for those brave but doomed heroes of Rescue 116. According to the interim report, data recovered from the black box paints a terrifying picture of one crewmember urging emergency evasive action as realisation suddenly dawned that Black Rock, a small island lying east of Blacksod on the Mullet Peninsula, lay ahead. To be honest, such was my upset, I didn’t want to read the transcript. You see, my granddaughter’s friend is related to one of the lost crewmen. However, sheer voyeurism meant I had to know what happened to those poor souls who had just 26 seconds to react, to try and raise their chopper in order to avoid an

impact with an obstacle whose data was not being picked up on their early warning system. How could this have happened? How could these amazing individuals have been ‘flying blind’, why were they rendered powerless, relying on information that wasn’t avail-

able to them and why are they dead? I mean, how many more rescue choppers/vessels are out there trying to save lives but, at the same time, relying on information not yet mapped on their technology? The entire crew of 116 displayed a remarkable level of

calmness; their courage and judgement in the face of grave danger, and then their precise and immediate perception of the fatal situation confronting them was absolutely outstanding. May their sacrifice never be forgotten and may they all rest in peace.

scandal and na has been dogged by gus alcohol breath chá Sío rda Ga an ce, for bo As a ars, the latest being the controversy for many ye ried out on motorists between 2012/2016,ve car re tests it claimed we r boys and girls in blue on the ground deser but I for one believe ou port and as law-abiding citizens, I feel we our full respect and super to aid and assist them in their role. ale, should all stand togeth d that two of our Gardaí, a male and a fem ste yo gu Ma dis ty un I’m y Co is, wh orr That’s by three thugs in Clarem were savagely set upon es, they simply last week. ined to protect themselvls of the trade tra are í rda Ga r ou ile y too Now wh deem to be the necessared with scumbags fac don’t have what I would en wh ess cel fen de ly cal – leaving them practi g as much damage as possible. Mind you, y, who are intent on causinhave some bleeding heart story and a ‘softl’t the offenders will surelybly strike out their charges ‘cos he/she doesn e softly’ judge will proba to have a criminal conviction… bless. Ah, sur e want the poor darlings any wonder such scum are given carte blanch with that attitude, is itth impunity, beating the bejaysus out of our to roam our streets wi e if mammy didn’t Gardaí and us? y went AWOL, I don’t caryou attack people dd da if e car n’t do I , ok if Lo u’re misunderstood… love ya, I don’t care if yofending our country’s citizens you’re an de job trying to do their off! a***hole and all bets are

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NewsPeople

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Jennifer McCarthy, Philip Derecourt, Geraldine Feighan, Pat McCarthy and Deirdre McCarthy. Picture: Andrew Fox

A general view of some musicians playing at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote. Picture: Andrew Fox

Fleadh goes down a treat in Castlecoote-Fuerty! Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin was staged in CastlecooteFuerty on Easter Sunday and Monday and proved to be very popular among locals and visitors alike. The Fleadh was opened by Roscommon musician, Patsy Hanly on Sunday and continued with competitions throughout the two days. It also featured successful musical workshops in St. Ciaran’s Community Centre on Easter Monday.

Castlecoote-Fuerty enjoyed some fine spring sunshine as it welcomed traditional music lovers from all over Ireland and further afield. There was a vintage car and tractor run through the rural villages as well as a live performance of ‘The Field’ and music from the Castlerea Brass and Reed band on the Sunday. The organising committee, including chairman PJ

Naughton and PRO Terry Leyden said they were “delighted following the phenomenally successful weekend” and wished to thank the hard working organising committee, event sponsors and visitors to the area who played their part. The committee added that they would be “absolutely delighted” to host Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin in 2018.

The Fleadh… in quotes “It started with a gala opening on the Sunday which included a vintage run, the Castlerea Brass & Reed Band and Pauric Cuddy’s float and performance of ‘The Field’” – PJ Naughton (Fleadh Cheoil Chairman) “The weather was a great asset and I’d like to thank the committee and everyone involved in making Fleadh Cheoil such a great success” – Senator Terry Leyden (PRO of Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin) “It was a resounding success. From the three pubs’ point of view, a huge success and up on 400 competitors took part over the weekend” – PJ Naughton

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Martina Cleary and Joe Cunniffe. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Carmel Mahe, Mary Kilmartin and Dorothy McDwyer. Picture: Andrew Fox

“People came from all over Roscommon and Tyrone, Armagh, Derry and Dublin. There were guests from Oregon and Alaska staying here who were very impressed with the music as well as local attractions such as the Suck Valley Way” – Senator Terry Leyden “There was a great festival atmosphere across the weekend and the sessions in the pubs were first class” – PJ Naughton “If we were chosen to host next year’s Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin, we’d be absolutely delighted!” – Senator Terry Leyden

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Emma Mahe and Louise Hogan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Bernard Mahe, Mike Tevenan and Quinlan Gannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

“We’ll be putting in our application to host next year’s event. Last weekend did away with the myth that Fleadh Cheoil couldn’t be successful in a rural area” – PJ Naughton

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NewsPeople

Pictured participating in the iWalknTalk Health & Wellbeing Walk in Ballintubber were a small group of some the participants. Picture: Andrew Fox

Walking the Walk: St Croan’s Minor Board raises awareness of ‘health and wellbeing’ A

great crowd gathered at Ballintubber Church carpark on Easter Monday for an inaugural walk from Ballintubber to Ballymoe Community Centre. This walk was organised to help raise awareness of health and wellbeing issues. Volunteerism was at its peak with the community coming together for this worthy awareness initiative. Local stewards along with the Civil Defence and An Garda Siochana ensured that all walkers enjoyed a safe journey. Water was provided at many stops by local householders. In Ballymoe, Brian Mullin, chairperson of St. Croan’s Minor Board Committee, addressed the crowd and thanked everyone who took part in the Walk. The walkers were treated to music by Crazy Corner while enjoying refreshments provided by the Ladies Football Committee. Thank you to all our sponsors on the day: DS Signs; Paschal Fitzmaurice; Tommy Joyce from Wispy’s Discount Store; Galway Plaza & Supermac’s;

Tully’s Total Health Pharmacy; Walsh’s Spar, Roscommon. The next phase of the Health and Wellbeing initiative will be a series of talks by professional experts who will present information aimed at parents, pre-teens, managers and trainers of teams and SAOR (Support, Ask for Help, Offer Assistance, Refer) Training. Health and Wellbeing can be broken down into physical, social, emotional and psychological. Each component is important as the next and we feel the need to impart education and awareness on our youth in regard to the stability of their mental health, healthy eating, getting and staying active, alcohol and drug awareness and social inclusion in today’s changing world. The committee would like to thank all who turned out to support the Health and Wellbeing Walk. Thanks to all who donated, sponsored, registered, purchased merchandise, made refreshments, entertainment, transport and all the volunteers. Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much!

Pictured participating in the iWalknTalk Health & Wellbeing Walk in Ballintubber on Easter Monday were Amy Malone, Sinéad Kenny and Ellie Coen. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured participating in the iWalknTalk Health & Wellbeing Walk in Ballintubber were Oisín Kelly, Rory Kelly, Marie Mockler, Gail Murray, Brian Mullin, Deirdre Cribbin, Rose of Roscommon, Aisling Moran, Breda Burke and Liam Moran. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured participating in the iWalknTalk Health & Wellbeing Walk in Ballintubber on Easter Monday were Daniel, Melanie and Chloe Hanmore. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Darkness Into Light Walk Saturday, 6th of May 2017 at 4.15 am

Pictured at the launch of the Pieta House Darkness into Light Walk in Daly’s, Boyle were representatives of Pieta House, Electric Ireland, members of Ballaghaderreen Chamber of Commerce, Garda Michael Pilkington and Sgt. Bernard Kilroy. Picture: Andrew Fox

If any of the local organisers wish to highlight details of their event in the Roscommon People, please email news@roscommonpeople.ie

Pictured at the launch of the Pieta House Darkness into Light Walk in Daly’s, Boyle were members of Roscommon Town Darkness into Light committee and representatives from Pieta House and Electric Ireland. Picture: Andrew Fox

Local Darkness Into Light Walks – raising funds and awareness The annual Darkness Into Light Walk, held in numerous locations nationwide, is the main fundraiser for Pieta House, the suicide and bereavement charity. This unique event begins in darkness at 4.15 am as people walk or run a 5km route while the dawn is breaking. This year, walks will be held in a number of towns in Roscommon and East Galway on Saturday, 6th of May. In Roscommon town, people as asked to assemble at the Convent Gym for the 5th Roscommon Town Walk. Registration is open online now at www.pieta.ie and there will also be registration in Fleming’s SuperValu, Main Street, Roscommon on Saturday, April 29th from 10 am to 6 pm and again in the former Hynes Butchers building (Main Street, Roscommon) on Wednesday, May 3rd and Thursday, May 4th (5 pm to 8 pm). If you, or anyone you know needs

support with any issue, please contact Pieta House on Freephone 1800 247 247.

Ballygar pre-registration This year’s Ballygar Darkness Into Light pre-registration will take place on Saturday, 29th of April in Holmes Centra, Ballygar. This will coincide with the Ballygar Annual Bag Pack which will take place on Friday, 28th and Saturday, 29th of April, also in Holmes Centra. This is Ballygar’s fifth Darkness Into Light. Last year, the town raised €24,250 for Pieta House.

Inaugural Walk in Glenamaddy Glenamaddy is to host its inaugural Darkness Into Light Walk. The launch took place in Glenamaddy Community School recently, where students provided traditional Irish music and the school choir

– directed by their teacher Niamh O’Flanagan – sang a number of songs, which mirrored the theme of hope embodied by Darkness Into Light. Representatives from local organisations, including Pieta House West, spoke about the importance of raising awareness of mental health issues in communities such as Glenamaddy. Michael Fitzmaurice, TD, complimented the committee on the dedication and determination that they had already shown in getting DIL up and running. Students from Glenamaddy Community School also took the opportunity to present Pieta House with the proceeds from a fundraising CD. DIL Glenamaddy Chairperson, Mary Jo Comer, said that she was humbled by the response she had received from the moment the idea had been raised. The walk will commence at Glenamaddy Community School on Saturday, 6th of May.

Pictured at the launch of the Pieta House Darkness into Light Walk in Daly’s, Boyle were members of Ballaghaderreen Darkness into Light committee and representatives from Pieta House and Electric Ireland. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of the Pieta House Darkness into Light Walk in Daly’s, Boyle were members of Castlerea Darkness into Light committee and representatives from Pieta House and Electric Ireland. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of the Pieta House Darkness into Light Walk in Daly’s, Boyle were members of Carrick-on-Shannon Darkness into Light committee and representatives from Pieta House and Electric Ireland. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Major historical conference to take place in Roscommon in May A major historical conference celebrating the Irish revolutionary period from 1917 to 1923 will be hosted in Roscommon town on Friday, May 5th and Saturday, May 6th. The conference, one of the largest of its kind in the country this year, has attracted leading historians and academics from this period and will take place at Gleeson’s Townhouse and the Abbey Hotel. The event is a unique collaboration between the Moore Institute of NUI Galway, the Heritage Office and library services of Roscommon County Council and members of the Co. Roscommon Archaeological & Historical Society. Proceedings begin on the Friday evening at 8 pm in Gleeson’s Townhouse with a panel of speakers addressing the topic of the 1917 North Roscommon bye-election, featuring contributions from Regina Donlon of NUI Maynooth, author Honor O’Brolochain and Martin

O’Donoghue of NUI Galway. Proceedings at the Abbey Hotel on Saturday begin at 9.30 am with a series of lectures on ‘Women, Families and Popular Politics’ with contributions from Fionnuala Walsh of Trinity College, Dublin and Jackie Ui Chionna of NUI Galway. Other highlights on the Saturday include a lecture entitled ‘Beyond 1915 revolutionary women, politics and propaganda 1917-18’ by Mary MacAuliffe of University College Dublin. Later that morning, at 11.20 am, the conference will turn to local, national and international perspectives of 1917 with contributions from John Canning of NUI Galway and James Curry on Jim Larkin’s ‘American Irish Worker’. This session will also feature lectures and discussions on this period with a local dimension from Padraig Yeates and Pauline Scott. The keynote speaker next month is

Pictured are esteemed street artist, Joe Caslin and internationally acclaimed fashion designer Helen Steele, recently announced as judges of the annual One4all ‘Design a Gift Card’ competition.

Calling all Roscommon creatives: Joe Caslin wants to see your designs John Boyle, INTO President, pictured with the newlyelected INTO Vice-President, Joe Killeen in Belfast this week.

teachers’ union into its 150th year in 2018. He said: “I’ll be working hard to ensure that the disgraceful situation where we have two different pay scales for the same job is addressed. The plight of the lesser paid teachers must be addressed in upcoming pay talks.”

‘Meet Me for Coffee’ – Jessamine wins national poetry competition Jessamine O’Connor from Roscommon won the adult category for her poem ‘Meet Me for Coffee’ in the 2017 Poetry Day Ireland and Butlers poetry competition. Poets were invited to submit poems that mentioned either chocolate or coffee, or that gave a flavour of a coffeehouse or café. Four of the winning poets, two adults and two children will have their poems printed on Pocket Poem cards, which will be distributed in all 19 Butlers Chocolate Café branches on Poetry Day Ireland, 27th of April 2017. Jessamine’s first prize also includes a pass for the Butlers Chocolate Experience; a ticket to every poetry event in either the International Literature Festival Dublin (20th-28th of May), Cúirt International Festival of Literature (23rd-30th of April), or to West Cork Literary Festival (14th21st of July); and a two-year

What’s making the news this week ...

Dr. Marie Coleman of Queens University, Belfast, who will speak on the realignment of Irish nationalist politics in 1917, following lunch at 2 pm on Saturday. Following this, conference organiser Conor McNamara will launch NUI Galway’s archival project, which underpins the conference themes of community, conflict and memory. The conference concludes on Saturday afternoon at 3.30 pm with a panel discussion entitled ‘1917 and the Emergence of a New Ireland’. To register in advance for the conference, email conor.mcnamara@ nuigalway.ie. There will also be a registration desk operational on both Friday evening and also on Saturday morning. Further details are also available by contacting County Roscommon Archaeological and Historical Society PRO Darragh Kelly on 0861731517 or by emailing darragh. kelly.ie@gmail.com.

Former Kiltrustan teacher is new INTO VP!

The new vice-president of the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation is Joe Killeen, the principal teacher in Lough Cutra NS Gort, Co. Galway. Joe is from Corofin, Co. Clare and began his teaching career at Kiltrustan NS in Strokestown. Since 1987 he has been principal of Lough Cutra NS in Gort, Co. Galway. Joe became Gort Branch Secretary in 1987 and represented Gort INTO Branch and District 6 of the INTO (Galway/Roscommon) for over 20 years. In 2008 he was elected to the Central Executive Committee of the union to represent INTO District 6. As an INTO Executive member, Joe represented District 6 on the Small Schools Task Force set up in 2012 to advise the executive on opposing proposals by the Department of Education and Skills to close small schools. Speaking after taking office, Joe said he was looking forward to helping to lead members of the island-wide

NEWSDESK

subscription to Poetry Ireland Review. On Poetry Day Ireland (27th of April) pick up a copy of the winning works on ‘pocket poem cards’ in Butler’s Cafés. Customers who recite a poem when ordering on Poetry Day Ireland will also receive an extra complimentary chocolate!

Meet Me for Coffee By Jessamine O’Connor Not a cup of tea, a pint or just ‘meet me’ because I want to wait awkward at a counter beside you with the steam spluttering, the espresso machine knocking and our overdressed elbows almost touching. I want to sit opposite you at a small table that can never be small enough, absorbing the heat of your hidden knees and then eyes when I catch you watching me lick the froth off my lips. I want us to be both fiddling with our round white cups, thumbing the holes that make the handles, intense with conversation while idling our fingers around and around those curves.

Poet Jessamine O’Connor from Roscommon

I want to be alone with you in a clamorous place where no one will notice what’s not being said, that’s why I say safely, meet me for coffee, instead of suggesting something else.

The search for Roscommon’s up and coming creatives is on as One4all launches its annual ‘Design a Gift Card’ competition. Now entering its fifth year, the competition gives artists across the country the opportunity to get national exposure for their designs. The winning design will be turned into a gift card and sold in An Post outlets nationwide and online at www.one4all.ie in 2018. One4all’s ‘Design a Gift Card’ calls on budding artists, illustrators and designers in Roscommon to design a unique gift card and carrier inspired by the theme of ‘Happiness’. The 2017 judging panel consists of some of Ireland’s best-loved creatives including internationally acclaimed fashion designer, artist and printmaker Helen Steele, and esteemed street artist and art teacher Joe Caslin (from Roscommon)

who has drawn attention for his thoughtprovoking murals including ‘Cladagh Embrace’ – the same-sex marriage mural which appeared on Dublin’s South George’s Street. Rounding off the judging panel for this year’s competition are Jerry Kelly, CEO of Tweak.com and Aoife Davey, Group Marketing Manager at One4all. Not only will the winner see their gift card design sold through One4all’s retail network, but they will also receive a MacBook Pro, an essential tool for any budding creative. The top five runnersup will each receive a €100 One4all Gift Card of their design which will also be available to purchase one4all.ie Closing date for entries is 11th of May, 2017. For further information on how to enter the competition and specific guidelines visit www.one4all.ie/design.

Safety works at Tibohine NS welcomed Senator Maura Hopkins and Cllr. Liam Callaghan have said that works being completed at Tibohine National School are extremely positive and will enhance safety at the school. Senator Maura Hopkins stated that the works include new paths, improved car parking facilities and a new walkway to link the school with the nearby community centre and church. She said: “Parents and teachers of children attending Tibohine National School have highlighted their serious concerns with me regarding the risk to the safety of students as they exit and enter cars before and after school. There was no structured parking which forced children to walk outside the parked cars along the edge of the busy road

(L1244). These safety concerns were raised with the local engineering department in Roscommon County Council.” Cllr. Liam Callaghan who has also been working hard on this issue strongly complimented the staff involved in Roscommon County Council for their excellent work at the school. He said: “Last year, €17,000 in CLAR funding was allocated to Tibohine National School which has allowed for the safety works to be completed.”

Concluding, Senator Hopkins stated that “parents, teachers and the Board of Management at Tibohine National School have been very proactive on securing this very positive outcome. “Our key priority is to ensure that children can get to and from school safely along with accessing the nearby community centre and church in a safe manner. These measures will undoubtedly help to ensure that the risks are minimised.”

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Weekend

PEOPLE

FACES AND PLACES

See pages 20 – 21

A new Rose blooms in Roscommon  DAN DOONER

eirdre Cribbin, a primary school teacher from Castleplunkett, was named as this year’s Roscommon Rose at the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night. The 26-year-old had very little time to take it all in, however, as she was scheduled to appear at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday afternoon. Speaking to the Roscommon People earlier this week, she said: “It has been a bit of a whirlwind. I was at the Easter Parade on Sunday and then WalknTalk in Ballintubber on Monday. I didn’t really have time to think about it but it has been great so far!” Deirdre will now join 63 other Roses in Tralee in August as she bids to follow in the footsteps of Aisling McNeill and make the televised final. Full coverage, pages 22-23. Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Charlie O’Brien, RosMed Pharmacy and The Lilac Rooms, Deirdre Cribbin, Rose of Roscommon, Kevin Woods, Roscommon’s Most Popular Escort 2017 and Joe Sheehy, RosMed Pharmacy and The Lilac Rooms. Picture: Andrew Fox

See ‘Animal Farm’ at Roscommon Arts Centre Animal Farm is coming to Roscommon! Be captivated as the talented young members of Roscommon County Youth Theatre play out Orwell’s mordant fable of a revolution betrayed on the Roscommon Arts Centre on Thursday 27th, Friday 28th and Saturday 29th of April. The action follows the rebellion of the downtrodden animals of Manor Farm, who are mistreated and abused by Farmer Jones. The audience will witness the euphoria of comradeship after the human oppressors are driven off. The animals expel Jones and, under the idealistic guidance of Snowball the pig, form a collective society to run the renamed ‘Animal Farm’, sharing all the work and all the food. The pigs, smartest of the animals, band together to provide leadership to the other animals.

We hear the teaching of Old Major that All Animals Are Created Equal. Slowly and subtly the pigs begin changing the rules to give themselves more power and privileges. Soon the rest of the animals are no better than they were under the humans and once again they are starving and near destitute. It is hard to believe Animal Farm was written in 1945 as it is filled with insights that remain current even today. Hold on to you seats as Roscommon County Youth Theatre bring the adaptation of this allegorical classic novel to life. Suitable for adults and young people 11+. School groups welcome. Animal Farm is also on the Junior Cycle Syllabus. Booking now at Roscommon Arts Centre on 090-6625824/www.roscommoncoco.ie

Fleadh fans…

Pictured at Fleadh Cheoil Ros Coman 2017 in Castlecoote were Jennifer Mahe and Ciara Geraghty. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 22nd April:

The Glenamaddy Players’ performance of ‘By the Bog of Cats’ on Saturday, 22nd of April in the Town Hall Theatre, Glenamaddy is to raise money for Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin and Damien Lynch’s Rehabilitation Fund. All proceeds from the night will be divided between these funds.

FIRST APPEARANCE BY

Michael Regan

Castlecoote Lodge BAR AND LOUNGE

Castlecoote, Roscommon Friday 21st April

IrishTrad Night

starting at 10pm CONTINUE THE ATMOSPHERE OF THE CASTLECOOTE/FUERTY FLEADH CHEOIL

Phone: 087 6335511

Glenamaddy Players’ fundraiser on Saturday Please support the group on the night and help raise much-needed funds. To book your tickets, contact 086-2045896. The play will also be performed on Sunday, 23rd of April and Thursday, 27th of April in the Town Hall Theatre, Glenamaddy ahead of their All-Ireland performance on Saturday, 29th of April in Tubbercurry.

The Fleadh Cheoil vibe continues at The Lodge!

Telephone: 090 6626225

Keep the wonderful atmosphere of Castlecoote-Fuerty Fleadh Cheoil going by coming along to the trad session in Castlecoote Lodge this Friday night (21st), commencing at 10 pm. Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comàin, which was held over Easter weekend in Castlecoote-Fuerty under the auspices of Athleague Branch CCE, was a resounding success. Talented local musicians, singers and dancers together with those from the four corners of Ireland performed in the Lodge and other venues in Castlecoote-Fuerty during what was a memorable weekend. This weekend, Castlecoote Lodge is the place to be to sample some of the Fleadh atmosPictured in John’s of Doughill were John phere! Ray and Tracey Conway.

Faces & John’s of Doughill Places

Friday 21st April:

The Square House Social Saturday 22nd April:

John Statz (USA)

Pics: Andrew Fox

Sunday 23rd April:

Hickory Wind Pictured in John’s of Doughill were Joe Gately, Martin Connaughton and Bridie Gately.

- 6 pm 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

Pictured in John’s of Doughill were David Devaney, Niall Kelly and Marie Casserly.

Pictured in John’s of Doughill were Padraig and Joan Higgins.

BEER OF THE WEEK! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries i

Pictured in John’s of Doughill were Pauric and Mary Devaney.

Pictured in John’s of Doughill were Bernie Harney, Mary Devaney, Martin Egan, Bridget Egan, Margaret Brennan and Ann O’Brien.

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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

Pictured at a table quiz in aid of RosFm in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Dale Hennigan, Kevin Woods, Johnny Boyle and Darren O’Connor. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a table quiz in aid of RosFm in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Noel Connolly and Teresa O’Brien. Picture: Andrew Fox

s e c a l P & s e c Fa RosFm fundraiser Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon Pics: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a table quiz in aid of RosFm in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Sarah Gordon, Niamh Loftus, Michael Mannion and Karen Harte. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a table quiz in aid of RosFm in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Seamus Dockery and Seamus Walsh. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a table quiz in aid of RosFm in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Teresa O’Brien, Helen McGinty and Denise McDonnell. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a table quiz in aid of RosFm in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Johnny Martin, Frank Coyne, Shay Cleary and Geraldine Coyne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a table quiz in aid of RosFm in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Michael Nolan, David Creighton, Martina Dockery and Bernie Kearney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Michaela Lyons and Sharon Taylor. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Laura Rogers, Sarah Louise Keane and Emma Harte. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were 2016 Roscommon Rose Aisling McNeill, Deirdre Cribbin, 2017 Rose of Roscommon, Yvonne Corrigan (committee chairperson) and current Rose of Tralee Maggie McEldowney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Kevin Finn and Jill Mullooly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Bernie, Niamh and Frank Ward. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Barry McGuire, Martin Regan and Carlo Morelli. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Deirdre Cribbin, Rose of Roscommon, Basil and Celia Finan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Martin and Yvonne Conneally. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Maria Delahunty, Ryan Beirne and Sandra Byrne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were John O’Sullivan and Rachel Byrne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were John O’Sullivan and Lisa Duignan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS Introducing the new Rose of Roscommon…

DEIRDRE GETS OFF TO A FLIER AT EASTER PARADE!  DAN DOONER

Ballintubber on Monday. I didn’t really have time to think about it but it has been great so far!” The new Rose said she was looking forward to the year ahead and had already received some great advice from her predecessor, Aisling McNeill. “Aisling had a great year. She got out of it what she put in. She was just so good on Saturday night. She came straight up to me when my name was read out and the advice started then. She has been a great support,” said Deirdre. Deirdre was sponsored by The Lilac Rooms and the Roscommon

Civil Defence volunteer expressed her gratitude to everyone who had enabled her to compete at this year’s event. “I’ve always wanted to do it. It was now or never really because next year I’d be too old. This is the last year I could’ve done it and that makes it all the sweeter!” she said. Deirdre will now join 63 other Roses in Tralee in August as she bids to follow in the footsteps of Aisling McNeill and make the televised final. One thing’s for sure: she’s embarking on an adventure that she will never forget.

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Deirdre Cribbin, Rose of Roscommon, Louis and Mary Cribbin. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Sharon Taylor, Yvonne Corrigan, Deirdre Cribbin, Rose of Roscommon and Sinéad McDermott. Picture: Andrew Fox

Kevin claims ‘Escort of the Year’ title  DAN DOONER

Kevin Woods was announced as this year’s Roscommon Rose Escort of the Year at the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night. The 25-year-old Rosmed Pharmacy employee (also his sponsor) was understandably delighted with the win but played it down in typical Escort of the Year style. He said: “It’s all about the Roses at the end of the day really but it’s a great feeling anyway.” So what does it take to become ‘Escort of the Year’ and what exactly helped Kevin stand out from the crowd? Kevin said it was about being there to assist his Rose, Nikita Heffernan from Ballaghaderreen. “It’s about being there when you’re

required. There’s no complicated formula really so whatever reason they chose me I don’t know. “My Rose was lovely. She was very bubbly, a great girl. We also had similar interests and that helped. She’s studying drama in college and I’m involved with the Roscommon Drama Group,” he added. However, the partnership got off to a rocky start according to Kevin. “My first encounter with Nikita was at the first selection night at the Abbey. Yvonne (Corrigan-Donohue, Roscommon Rose Chairperson) came over and introduced us. Nikita’s reaction was ‘Oh my God. You’re so short!’” remembers Kevin. The diminutive escort had high praise for all those involved in the

Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Deirdre Cribbin, Rose of Roscommon and Evan Finan. Picture: Andrew Fox

event, however. “The people involved had a massive part to play. The whole group really clicked, the Roses were absolute ladies and the escorts were all gents. The judges certainly had a difficult decision to make on Saturday night when picking a Rose. “The Roscommon Rose committee and all those involved in organising the event deserve great credit for their hard work in organising such a successful event,” he concluded. Pictured at the Roscommon Rose Selection Ball in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night last were Deirdre Cribbin, Rose of Roscommon and Kevin Woods, Roscommon’s Most Popular Escort 2017. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NewsPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION We are children of Jesus’ Resurrection from the dead. Through this wondrous sign of His great mercy, the Father of Jesus has given us new birth, as we hear in today’s Epistle. Today’s First Reading sketches the “family life” of our first ancestors in the household of God (see 1 Peter 4:17). We see them doing what we still do –devoting themselves to the Apostles’ teaching, meeting daily to pray and celebrate “the breaking of the bread.” The Apostles saw the Lord. He stood in their midst, showed them His hands and sides. They heard His blessing and received His commission –to extend the Father’s mercy to all peoples through the power and Spirit He conferred upon them. We must walk by faith and not by sight, must believe and love what we have not seen (see 2 Corinthians 5:7). Yet the invisible realities are made present for us through the devotions the Apostles handed on. Notice the experience of the risen Lord in today’s Gospel is described in a way that evokes the Mass. Both appearances take place on a Sunday. The Lord comes to be with His disciples. They rejoice, listen to His Word, receive the gift of His forgiveness and peace. He offers His wounded body to them in remembrance of His Passion. And they know and worship Him as their Lord and their God. Thomas’ confession is a vow of faith in the new covenant. As promised long before, in the blood of Jesus we can now know the Lord as our God and be known as His people (see Hosea 2:20-25). This confession is sung in the heavenly liturgy (see Revelation 4:11). And in every Mass on earth we renew our covenant and receive the blessings Jesus promised for those who have not seen but have believed. In the Mass, God’s mercy endures forever, as we sing in today’s Psalm. This is the day the Lord has made – when the victory of Easter is again made wonderful in our eyes. – Dr Scott Hahn, www. salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon)

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

FRANKLY

SPEAKING

FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

A night on three towns to celebrate pension and free bus pass! M

any years ago on the

14th of April, a baby boy was born in Portiuncula Hospital to my dad, Bill, and my mother, Terry, and I, Francis Anthony Brandon was that child, and so it came to pass that last Friday, which happened to be Good Friday, I celebrated my 66th birthday, which simultaneously made me eligible for the old age pension and the free bus pass. Now normally that would have been enough to have a few pints in celebration, partly because of the free travel, but more particularly because I never thought I’d get anywhere near 66, but of course no pubs (not even Mikeen’s) were open, and so I had no option except to look at the Late Late Show. And, as luck would have it, it turned out to be the second big Country Music Late Late – and, as an unashamed lover of country music, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Everyone in Irish country music was there except maybe Ray Lynam, Roly Daniels and Joe Finnegan, but, apart from those few, it seemed like the cream of the entertainment scene was present, topped off by the appearance of American superstar Charley Pride. I have got very fond of wee Daniel and his wife, Majella, on their bed and breakfast tour round

Ireland, and you could see on Friday night that, big and all as Nathan Carter, Mike Denver, Jimmy Buckley, and all the rest have become, the Donegal crooner is still way out there ahead of them and, Big Tom aside, he is definitely our biggest and brightest star. I also liked the appearance of Charlie Landsborough, a lovely gentle singer, who also came across as a lovely gentleman. The three ladies (grannies) of country brought the show to an end and Margo (you could see where Daniel got his drollness from), Philomena Begley, and Susan McCann, were just so much fun, and still able to wallop out the old hits! It was a great show and nearly took my mind off being an old-age pensioner. However, the good news

Train turmoil! It’s now, as I’ve told you, Monday evening and I’ve just got a text message from a friend of ours who asked me to highlight the terrible overcrowding on the train back to Dublin from Roscommon on this Bank Holiday Monday. Apparently there were hundreds of train passengers who had to stand all the way to the city and I have lost count of the number of times I have heard Barry Kenny, the spokesperson for Irish Rail, make all kinds of excuses in the national media for overcrowding on their trains. Now it’s usually the Sligo-Dublin train that seems to have problems, and I know he would talk his way out of this one as well, but for someone with a simple mind (that’s me), surely on a bank holiday weekend it should be possible to forecast that there might be extra passengers on the train and another carriage or two would not have gone amiss? Now that I have my free travel, the price won’t bother me, but I’m told train travel is quite expensive, and surely if you pay big money, the least you would expect is a bit of comfort. If those who had to stand all the way to Dublin demanded refunds, maybe in time Irish Rail might just sort out the situation.

is that the following night, members of my family thought I was looking a bit thin and so a few of us headed off to the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon to belatedly have a birthday dinner, and try and put on a bit of weight. Now I praise the Abbey so much in this column, that you would nearly swear I am on their payroll, but honestly I am not (yet), but once again the whole experience was delightful, and the food was even better. The hotel was absolutely buzzing as they had the Rose of Tralee selection on that night in the ballroom, as well as a large number of out of town residents, and, all told, we really enjoyed our visit. Thankfully, we had a designated driver – thanks Tara – and we decided that, as it’s seldom we hit town, we’d

pay a visit to the Hatch, and if Saturday night was anything to go by, the demise of the local pub may not just yet be a done deal. The Hatch was wedged with revellers of all ages. I met up with Tommy Joe Leonard, who used to play full-back for St. Joseph’s when I was trying to play at full-forward for Creggs, and it was the first time that I left him still able to walk and without every bone in my body shaking. Tommy Joe was the old-style full-back, as hard as nails but fair, but if you strayed into his area you’d better be able to look after yourself. He looked as fit on Saturday night as he did the last time I played against him and it was great to catch up over a couple of quiet pints. However, we had to try and

catch up with the goings-on in Castlecoote, where the County Fleadh was taking place. Having paid a flying visit to all three pubs, it was obvious that it too was an enormous success. A final visit to Mikeen’s – he was open Saturday night – brought the curtain down on my birthday celebrations, and as I write this on Monday evening I have not been outside the door since. The big sign of advancing age is when you can’t do two nights in a row and despite the great plans I had at the end of Saturday of going to the Fleadh again on Sunday and finishing the weekend off at Jason Curran and Reigning Day in Mikeen’s, the old body gave up and I failed to get off the couch on Sunday at all.

Supporting local causes Back to last week’s piece about the fundraising efforts for the refurbishment of the Church in Newbridge. I made a slight error in telling you where the contributions are to go to; all donations to Fr. Louis Lohan, St. Patrick’s Church, Newbridge. As I said if you have any few bob to spare, please send them to Fr. Louis.

Shave or Dye in Creggs! Finally for this week, out here in Creggs we are getting ready for a big shave, dye, and wax night, which is taking place in Mikeen’s on Sunday night, 30th of April. As of now, John Small, Eugene Hanley, Laura Keegan and yours truly (who is losing his beard but not his hair or moustache, just so you know) are going under the scissors, or the knife, and all proceeds go to Cancer Care West. There will be music and a raffle on the night, and it’s all for a great cause, so once again, give what you can; it promises to be great week, craic, so make sure you ‘Till next w no r fo Bye don’t miss it!

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

StrokestownEasterParade

Pictured at last Sunday’s Easter Parade in Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade on Sunday last were Conor Murphy, Dylan Cronin and Ciarán McManus. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade on Sunday last were Cathy Farrell, Nicola Farrell, Modwena Geoghegan and Colette McManus. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at last Sunday’s Easter Parade in Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade on Sunday last were Elizabeth, Noah and Brian Stobie. Picture: Andrew Fox

Donna Kelly pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

RoscommonTownEasterParade

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last were Julianna, Joey, Larissa and Andrea. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last were John Cullen, Julianne Molloy, Stephanie Cuddy-Cullen and Juliet Cullen. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last were Teresa Neilan, Tommy and Ann Ryan and Michelle Neilan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last were Grace Gilleran, Eoghan Gilleran, Ann Gilleran, Cian O’Grady and Oisín Gilleran. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured are the McDermott’s Darts Team float participants who were the winners of the Judges’ Special Prize at the Easter Parade in Roscommon town.

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

RoscommonTownEasterParade

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Living&Lifestyle

Daffodil Day again showcases generosity and support of public Almost €20,000 raised in Roscommon area

he Irish Cancer Society and the local voluntary organisers of Daffodil Day 2017 in Roscommon Town and environs, wish to thank the public for their financial contributions, and for their donations of fresh daffodils. A total of €19,438.60 including the coffee mornings in Roscommon Town and Kilteevan, was raised. This year again we had the assistance of the students of the Convent of Mercy Transition Year, for which we are very grateful and extend

thanks to them, their Principal and Class Co-ordinators for their cooperation. We thank the shops, offices and other outlets which allowed us to place Daffodil Day Boxes in their premises and allowed our volunteers to stand inside or outside their premises on Daffodil Day. Contributing to this year’s success were, the Coffee Mornings hosted by, Caitlin McConn and Brian Mugan in J.J.Harlow’s on 10th of March; Coffee Morning in Scoil Mhuire on

Daffodil Day, Tea Party in Linda Madden’s PreSchool on Daffodil Day, and Coffee Morning by Kilteevan Community Development Group Ltd., in Kilteevan Community Centre on Sunday, 26th March, also the sale of Knitted Daffodils by volunteer knitters. Well done and thanks to all involved. Thanks are also extended to Sean Doyle & Sons Ltd. for the use of their premises in Harrison Centre, Roscommon as a depot for receiving fresh daffodils and to operate from on Daffodil Day and

the previous day. The co-operation and support of the local media, radio and print, and the Parish Office, have all played their part in the success of Daffodil Day, and for that we say thank you. Without our dedicated volunteers, Daffodil Day would not be possible, so sincere thanks to all for their involvement in the weeks before Daffodil Day and over the two days at the depot, and on the streets. We hope you will join with us again next year for another successful Daffodil Day.

Pictured at the Daffodil Day Coffee Morning in Kilteevan were Mary and Catherine McCormack. Picture: Andrew Fox

Elphin contributes €4,071 to fundin Elphin have extended

Pictured at the Daffodil Day Coffee Morning in Kilteevan were Mary O’Grady, Padraig Murphy, Catherine Ryan and Sarah Egan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Daffodil Day Coffee Morning in Kilteevan were Margaret Gilleran, Kathleen and Joe Fox. Picture: Andrew Fox

The organisers of Daffodil Day Contributions to the thanks to all who supported the event. premises, came to ness outdoor stall, as well as sales in busi tion of €750 from the €3,321. The fund also received a dona ‘Give Together’ gift staff at the Bank of Ireland through theElphin and surroundinitiative. This brings the final total for ing areas to €4,071. all of 30 years of The outdoor stall has been in place fort to the overall conboos huge a been has and Daffodil Day All the fresh daffodils tribution from the Elphin community. ered from Elphin and were donated. Thanks to all who delivinameen, Strokestown surrounding areas and Knockroe, Ball to all who were unand also Ballygar, Co. Galway. Thanks able to come in but sent in donations. time to stop and conSincere thanks to everyone who took Foundation, coach, tribute so generously to the Irish Cancer walkers. The refreshlorry and tractor drivers, cyclists and family were very weland ty Kiel ments provided by Deirdre at Bank of Ireland. come. Support was given all day by all to promote Daffodil ed help who ents stud the Many thanks to the St. Patrick’s Day Day’s 30th year and carried the banner in e Park at the launch Crok in d laye disp was er bann The Parade. by one of the volunteers. late Sandra Vernon The banner was hand-painted by the ents were Lauren stud The lon. Han e hani Step by and updated ght, Alexandra Gigan, Shanagher, Lisa Shannon, Louise Enri nteers of the future, volu Ciara Higgins, and Ailbhe Cryan – we hope!

Pictured at the Daffodil Day Coffee Morning in Kilteevan were Ann Gibbons, John Devaney, Sally Ann Brennan and Maureen Kilmartin. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Living&Lifestyle

Pictured at the launch of ‘LGBT Friendly Roscommon 2017’ at Hannon’s Hotel were Mary McGrath, HSE, Una Mullally, Chair of Ireland’s first LGBT National Youth Strategy, Will Keane, Guest Speaker, Angela Toolis, Chairperson of the Children and Young Person Service Committee and Lydia Dwyer, Chairperson of Roscommon Comhairle na nÓg. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of ‘LGBT Friendly Roscommon 2017’ at Hannon’s Hotel were Brian Higgins, Elphin Community College, Caroline Duignan, Coordinator of Roscommon Children and Young People Services Committee, Morgan Mee, Roscommon Children and Young People Services Committee, Nikki Mullen, Smily LGBT Group, Sligo and Luke McEvoy, Elphin Community College. Picture: Andrew Fox

LGBT Friendly Roscommon launched Countywide initiative kicks off in Hannon’s  DAN DOONER

“Everybody needs to play a part in supporting LGBT young people.” This was the message from Irish Times columnist and Independent Chair of Ireland’s first LGBT National Youth Strategy, Una Mullally, as she officially launched ‘LGBT Friendly Roscommon 2017’ in Hannon’s Hotel recently. LGBT Friendly Roscommon is a public awareness initiative, which aims to introduce a code of practice through a series of awareness-raising workshops in order to assist LGBTI young people. Una Mullally said that while a lot had been done to make Ireland an easier place to grow up in, more needed to be done. She said: “Being LGBT is not the problem. The problem is the negative attitude that is encountered all too frequently by LGBT young people. It is this negative attitude and the negative behaviours that it can give rise to, that must be challenged and changed.” Roscommon native, Will Keane, said that while growing up in the county provided him with many happy memories, becoming aware of his sexuality complicated matters. He said: “My childhood was a very happy time but as I grew up and became aware that I was gay, this did make things more difficult.” Will, who appeared on RTE Television’s

‘Only Gay in the Village’, urged local businesses and clubs to display the LGBT Friendly symbol, which was designed by Elphin Community College student, Luke McEvoy. Those present at the launch also heard from Angela Toolis, chairperson of Roscommon Children and Young People’s Services Committee, who is also area manager for Tusla, the child and family agency. The CYPSC chair praised the work of those involved including HSE Office of Suicide Prevention, Tusla, Foróige, Roscommon County Council and Roscommon LEADER Partnership. Nikki Mullen provided an insight into her work as an LGBT Youth Support Worker with SMILY Youth LGBT Group in Sligo/Leitrim while highlighting the difficulties faced by LGBT young people. Elphin Community College student, Lydia Dwyer, who acted as MC for the launch, encouraged those in attendance to utilise the series of workshops that will take place throughout the month of May. The workshops will be organised across the county in order to raise awareness of LGBT issues in Co. Roscommon as well as aiming to create an even more LGBT friendly atmosphere within organisations and clubs in the county. Copies of the Code of Practice template and a schedule for the workshops can be found in the Roscommon CYPSC section of www.cypsc.ie.

Pictured at the launch of ‘LGBT Friendly Roscommon 2017’ at Hannon’s Hotel were Andrea Heaney, William Neary, Emily Sharkey and Padraic Croghan. Picture: Andrew Fox

AwarenessRaising Workshops

Pictured at the launch of ‘LGBT Friendly Roscommon 2017’ at Hannon’s Hotel were Cllr. Orla Leyden, Nikki Mullen, Smily LGBT Group, Sligo, Angela Toolis, Chairperson of the Children and Young Person Service Committee, Will Keane, Guest Speaker, Una Mullally, Chair of Ireland’s LGBT National Youth Strategy, Lydia Dwyer, Chairperson of Roscommon Comhairle na nÓg and Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher. Picture: Andrew Fox

A number of Awareness-Raising Workshops will be held in conjunction with CYPSC. The first workshop will take place in Ballaghaderreen on Wednesday, May 10th at 10.30 am and is facilitated by Roscommon CYPSC and Roscommon LEADER Partnership. On Wednesday, May 17th there will be a workshop at 10 am in Roscommon and this will be facilitated by HSE Suicide Prevention Office and Foróige. Also, on May 17th, Roscommon CYPSC and Boyle Family Resource Centre will facilitate a workshop in Boyle at 10.30 am. On Thursday, May 18th HSE Suicide Prevention Office and Foróige will host a workshop at 10 am in Castlerea. Finally, on Tuesday, May 23rd, Roscommon CYPSC will host a workshop in Monksland at 7.30 pm.

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

FarmingPeople Novice Ploughing Competition to take place this Saturday

ROSCOMMON CO-OPERATIVE LIVESTOCK MARTS LTD Circular Road, Roscommon

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE SOCIETY

The Roscommon Ploughing Association’s Novice Ploughing Championships will take place this year on the farm of Mr. John Hanley in Kilbegnet on Saturday April 22nd. Anyone who may have an interest in taking part in this event is encouraged to come along on the day. Previous experience or your own tractor and plough are not required to take part in the event and experienced ploughmen will be available on the day to mentor those taking part. For further information about this event or to register for your place, please call 086-8125211

Notice is hereby given that the 58th Annual General Meeting of the above-named Society will be held at the Society’s Registered Offices, Circular Road Roscommon on Wednesday, May 10th 2017 at 9 p.m. AGENDA 1. Minutes 2. Chairman’s Report 3. Adoption of Accounts & Auditors Report 4. Appointment of Auditor 5. Declaration of Election Results 6. Declaration of Dividend (if any) 7. Any other Business incidental to the Meeting. By order of the Board Maura Quigley-Secretary

Roscommon Mart Report Tuesday, April 18th: There was a good entry of stock on offer at last Tuesday’s sale. Once again there was an excellent trade for bull weanlings with prices averaging from €2.71 up to €3.50 per kilo. There was a slight improvement in the trade for weanling heifers with prices ranging from €2.58 per kilo up to €3.53 per kilo. There was a good attendance of exporters, agents and farmers in attendance with a high clearance of lots. No sale of weanlings on Tuesday (25th). Special May sale of weanlings on Tuesday, May 2nd at 5 pm. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm next Thursday (27th). Weanling heifers made from €355 to €830 over. Sample prices: BAX 455kgs €1300, BBX 450kgs €1280, Char X 330kgs €1165, Lim X 315kgs €1050, Char X 340kgs €1025, Lim X 310kgs €965, Char X 285kgs €960, Char X 300kgs €950, 3 Char x 346kgs €890, Simm X 355kgs €925, 2 Char X 295kgs €815, Lim X 255kgs €800. Weanling bulls made from €450 to €880 over. Sample prices: Lim X 520kgs €1400, Char X 555kgs €1305, Lim X 535kgs €1270, BBX 425kgs €1255, Char X 475kgs €1250, Lim X 425kgs €1200, Char X 400kgs €1125, Lim x 380kgs €1080, Char X 345kgs €1080, BBX 355kgs €1065, Lim X 385kgs €1050, Char X 350kgs €980, Lim X 325kgs €945, Lim 330kgs €935, AAX 365kgs €900. Sheep sale – Wednesday, April 19th: We had a smaller entry of sheep this week. We had a small number of spring lambs on offer and they made up to €123.50. There was a better trade for the finished hoggets with a top price of €120. There was a steady trade for cast ewes. There were plenty of ewes with lambs at foot again this week and all lots were sold. Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am for lambs and cast ewes. Show and sale of lambs next Wednesday (26th) at 11 am. Sample prices for spring lambs: 47kgs €122.5, 50.2kgs €123.5, 56kgs €118, 70kgs €116.5, 50.3kgs €115, 45kgs €110. Hoggets: 48.6kgs €124, 48.3kgs €120, 54kgs €120, 45kgs €113.5, 49.5kgs €112, 51.6kgs €111, 45kgs €100. Cast ewes made from €54 to €140 per lot. Yearlings in lamb made from €124 to €132. Ewe with two lambs at foot made from €180 to €215. Ewe with one lamb at foot made from €114 to €210.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Smart Farming kicks off on William Cassidy’s farm in Maganey, Co. Carlow. (L-r) William Cassidy; IFA President Joe Healy; and Thomas Cooney, IFA Environment Chairperson.

Smart Farming makes sense! Smart Farming, the IFAled cost savings programme, will work with more than 1,000 farmers across 50 discussion groups, purchasing groups and IFA branches in 2017. Farmers who take part in Smart Farming save an average of €5,000 per year, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions from their farms by 7 to 10%. Speaking at the launch of the programme, IFA President Joe Healy said: “It is important that we look at costs inside the farm gate, and the fact that this programme enhances the environment really is a double dividend.” The programme works directly with farmers to

develop cost-saving plans, tailored to their farm, and focussed on eight key areas: soil fertility, energy, grassland, water, feed, inputs and waste, machinery and time management. The IFA President explained: “Beginning this month, expert advisors will carry out case studies on 50 farms nationwide. The actions, results and learnings from these case studies will not only help the farmers involved to make significant savings, but will also be communicated through Discussion Groups, allowing more than 1,000 farmers to benefit from the Smart Farming expertise and experience.” Smart Farming partici-

pant William Cassidy from Maganey in County Carlow added: “I am taking part in the initiative to find cost savings on my farm and share the ideas with my neighbours. The fact I am also playing my part to improve the environment is great too.” Smart Farming is led by the IFA and works with the knowledge and expertise of Teagasc, EPA, UCD, SEAI, FTMTA, Fertiliser Association of Ireland, Irish Grassland Association, and the National Federation of Group Water Schemes. More details about the Smart Farming programme are available at www.smartfarming.ie

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

MONDAY WEEKLY:

BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. 3 RINGS IN OPERATION. SATURDAY 13TH MAY:

HORSE SALE 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

‘Roscommon M1114’ took the Yellow Rosette in his class at the North Munster Cattle Breeders Society Grand Annual Bull Show and Sale in Golden Vale Mart, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick last Thursday. In picture is Padraig Connor, Elphin, Co. Roscommon. Photo: Ita West.

Corcoran welcomes Varadkar stance on Rural Social Scheme Mr. Padraig Corcoran, Roscommon IFA Rural Development Chairperson, has said confirmation given by the Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar that the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) is an income support initiative, is a welcome development as there have been attempts by his Department to make it a job activation measure like other social employment schemes. Mr. Corcoran said the RSS is a vital support to 3,100 low-income farm families and to local communities where job opportunities are scarce and must remain a standalone social and community support measure. The Rural Social Scheme involves a topup to a person’s social protection payment,

mainly Farm Assist. Mr. Corcoran said the recent addition of 500 places is welcome, despite the fact that the terms and conditions vary from those that apply to the 2,600 participants who have been in the scheme for some time. Mr. Corcoran said social supports such as Farm Assist and RSS are vital to maintain farming and rural communities. The recent changes to Farm Assist where the 30% income disregards and child disregards were reintroduced is a very positive outcome and IFA has acknowledged Minister Varadkar’s role in this following a submission IFA made last year prior to the Budget.

Mobile: 087 9839284 ● KEEN RATES ● COVERING ALL AREAS

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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 21 April 2017

FarmingPeople

PropertyPeople

A dream home on books of REA Carthy (Serving Farmers for over 57 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

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

No Sale of Weanlings Tuesday next April 25th

Special May Sale of Weanlings Tuesday, May 2nd at 5 p.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday April 27th ------------

Springtime Special Sales for Bullocks & Heifers Tomorrow Friday, April 21st at 11 a.m. 60 pens Bullocks & 60 pens of Heifers Also Dry Cows -------------

Late Spring Special Sale of Bullocks Friday, April 28th at 11 a.m. Also Heifers & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, April 20th ------------

Special May Sale of Heifers Friday, May 5th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 27th Also Bullocks & Dry Cows -----------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. -------------

Show & Sale of Lambs Wednesday, April 26th at 11 a.m. (in conjunction with Roscommon Lamb Festival) Prizes in each class – 1st €100, 2nd €50 Best Pen of Factory Lambs (minimum of 5 lambs) Best Pen of Butchers Lambs (minimum of 5 lambs) Best Pen of 5 Factory Lambs Suitable for Qualeutex Lamb Producer Group sired by A Texel or Beltex Ram Sheep Breed Societies Exhibition Trade Stands Official Launch – 11.30 a.m. Special Class Best Ewe with 2 Lambs at foot The Oliver Burke Memorial Sculpture will be awarded to the winner

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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REA Seamus Carthy are now inviting offers for a hugely impressive fivebedroomed family home with detached garage situated on landscaped 0.51-acre site finished internally and externally to the highest standard whilst conveniently set only 1.5 km from Castlerea in what is considered a most convenient and sought-after residential location. This property is truly the dream family home, offering exceptional value. Seamus says that the property is a superior five-bedroomed family home with many features including its distinct red brick facade and attractive bay windows, quality fixtures and fittings throughout, a feature central timber staircase and beautifully appointed red brick fireplace in family living room – whilst externally there are landscaped and manicured lawns with a fine detached garage, charming detached timber workshop and delightful gar-

PSRA Licence Number 002782

New to the Market

TRIEN, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON A most attractive 4 bedroom family home with detached double garage set on a beautifully mature site in Trien Village, midway between the larger Towns of Castlerea and Williamstown. The said residence offers a quality family home with spacious living accommodation throughout and will substantially benefit from modernisation. Altogether this is a quality property to come on the market in this highly sought after residential location and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers for sale.

AMV: €150,000. _________________________________ New to Market

BALLINLOUGH VILLAGE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Cloonchambers, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

den shed transformed into a children’s hut. Truly a dream family home and enquiries are now invited for this most

impressive home situated on the outskirts of Castlerea Town. Contact Seamus Carthy at 090-6630001 or e mail info@reacarthy.ie

High quality 4 bedroom detached dormer style family home. Carefully maintained to the highest standard by its present owners, the said property comes to the market in pristine condition throughout. This superior home set in an attractive village location comprises a living room, sitting room, kitchen, dining room, W.C, utility at ground floor with 4 bedrooms (2 ensuite) and a family bathroom at first floor. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers for sale.

A quality country home! REA Seamus Carthy presents new to the market a quality traditional three-bedroomed country home with extension to rear, situated on a mature landscaped site with detached garage and separate fuel store. Presented in excellent condition throughout, the said property has been meticulously maintained by its present owners. Boasting many features, this traditionalstyle cottage presented in pristine condition with its mature site incorporating a side driveway leading to fully serviced garage has also the benefit of dual central heating (oil and solid fuel). There is also a

Enquiries Invited. _________________________________ New to Market

45 CLUAIN FRAOIGH, ROSCOMMON TOWN Valeview, Lisalway, Co. Roscommon

separate fuel store to rear of house. Viewing is highly recommended with offers now invited. Contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090-663 0001 or email info@reacarthy.ie

Keen interest in farms on books of Pat Hughes & Company Auctioneer Pat Hughes is confirming that they have received a lot of interest in two residential farms that they advertised in the Roscommon People recently. The first property is located at Glenballythomas, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon and is a circa 66-acre farm with a good range of outoffices, including a fivebay slatted shed. The property appears at present to be going in one lot despite a number of enquiries about small portions of the property. It appears to be selling in one lot at present. The property can be sold with entitlements worth in the region of €12,000 per annum if required. The second farm is located at Carrowkeel, Dysart, Co.

Roscommon containing circa 56 acres and a threebedroomed residence. Pat is also confirming that this farm appears now to be going in one lot as opposed to several lots as previously anticipated. Pat is hopeful of concluding the sale in the

coming weeks on both of these farms. The company are this week reporting a strong demand for Entitlements for sale. Lowerpriced Entitlements are being sold at face value. Enquiries to 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

For sale at Galway Road, Roscommon For sale at the Galway Road, Roscommon a four-bedroomed detached residence on a large fully landscaped site with a small garden shed. Accommodation consists of a sitting room with an open fireplace and bay window, large kitchen cum dining room, utility, downstairs toilet and WHB, patio door doors leading onto the garden, four bedrooms with one ensuite, one currently been used as a study, and a bathroom. The residence is finished to a high standard. Viewing is highly recommended. Enquiries to 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Excellent opportunity to purchase attractive 4 bedroom modern semi-detached residence presented in excellent condition, ideally located within walking distance of Roscommon Town centre and all amenities. The said property boasts spacious living accommodation throughout and is considered an ideal property for both owner occupiers and investors. Viewings and offers invited. Enquiries Invited. _________________________________ New to Market

8 PRIORY PARK, BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON Quality 3 bedroom semi detached two storey home presented in excellent condition. Within walking distance of all amenities in Ballaghaderreen, the said property will be of interest to both owner occupers and investors. This attractive home comprises of a living room, kitchen/ dining room, W.C at ground floor with 3 bedrooms (1 ensuite) and family bathroom at first floor. Excellent value for money, now on offer and the Auctioneer invites viewings and offers. AMV: €80,000.

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

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

PropertyPeople Sean Naughton MIPAV COMMISSIONER FOR OATHS, AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS, ESTATE AGENTS THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TEL: (090) 6625080 (offi (office ce)) Mob: 087 2479486 — Fax: (090) 6627161 Email: seannaughton@eircom.net

NEW TO THE MARKET – FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY C.44 Acre Non Residential Farm

CLOONYLYON, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON Circa 44 Acres Non Residential Farm for sale at Cloonylon, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Dual purpose good quality farmland located approximately 3km from Strokestown. Further details to follow. Price on Application. ---------------------------------------------------------NEW TO THE MARKET – FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY

New to the market – in Elphin New to the market with Pat Hughes & Co. at Newline Road, Elphin is a threebedroomed semi-detached residence with a number of stores to the rear. The residence is located in a prominent location convenient to the town of Elphin. The property can be sold with a large site to the side or in two lots if required. New to the market at Kiltrustan,

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon a threebedroomed detached residence on a circa one-acre site. Accommodation consists of three bedrooms, bathroom and a kitchen. The residence is in need of some modernisation but is well located and has development potential subject to planning permission being granted. Enquiries to 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

14 THE GREEN LANESBOROUGH, CO. ROSCOMMON

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

**URGENTLY REQUIRED **

Pristine 3 Bedroom Residence, with large garden & garage for sale at 14 The Green Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon. Accommodation consist of Kitchen/Dining Room, Sitting Room, Utility 3 Bedrooms, Bathroom Downstairs Toilet & WHB. Offers in the Region of €110,000

On the market this week at Sean Naughton Auctioneers Sean Naughton Auctioneers (Roscommon) is delighted to offer new to the market a charming three-bedroomed residence at 14, The Green, Lanesborough. Accommodation consists of: kitchen/dining room, sitting room, utility, toilet & WHB and bathroom. The property has additional benefit of a solid fuel stove; wooden floors and OFCH. This property boasts large outside space with large garden area and a garage. This residence is in pristine condition and has recently been newly refurbished throughout. The property is adjacent to all local amenities including Church, school, park, etc. This property must be seen to be appreciated. Offers in the region of €110,000 are invited. Also on offer this week is a four-bedroomed luxury detached residence with a large garden, located in the centre of Athleague village, Co. Roscommon. Accommodation includes – down- Athleague village, stairs: kitchen, dining room, liv- Co. Roscommon. ing room, sitting room, utility, toilet & WHB, storage room; Upstairs: four bedrooms (one ensuite), large landing and family bathroom.The property has many additional features, such as solid wooden floors throughout the property, master bedroom ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. The property boasts large outside space, with garden to the rear with off-street parking. This property has commercial potential due to its excellent location in the centre of Athleague village, which was formerly the old schoolhouse and which has been completely redesigned to modern standards. This property is in an excellent location within walking distance of local amenities such as shops, school, post office and parish Church, etc. Viewing is highly recommended and this property has to be seen to be fully appreciated. Offers in the region of €190,000 are invited. Finally on offer this week is a three-bedroomed luxury detached residence for sale by private treaty at Convent Road, Roscommon town. Accommodation consists of kitchen/dining room, large living room, sitting Convent Road, room, conservatory, utility, three Roscommon Town. bedrooms (ensuite) and bathroom. This property has additional benefit of large mature garden to the rear, three sheds and a self-contained office area. Viewing is highly recommended. Offers in the region of €190,000 are invited. For further information please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090-6625080 or email seannaughton@ eircom.net

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. 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

------------------------------------------------------FINAL OFFERS – For sale at

CARROWNALASSON, FOUR MILE HOUSE, ROSCOMMON

New to the Market at

KILTRUSTAN, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

3 bedroomed detached residence on circa 1 acre site. Accommodation consists of 3 bedrooms, bathroom and a kitchen. Residence is in need of some modernisation but is well located and has development potential subject to planning permission being granted. For further details contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

------------------------------------------------------For Sale at

ERS F F O L FINA

GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON

3 bedroomed cottage on circa 1 acres with access to two roads. Final Offers are now being accepted no later than 5 p.m. on Friday 21st April 2017. Legal: Mr. Roddy McCrann, Solicitor, Thomas V McCrann Solicitors, Church Street, Roscommon Ph. 09066 26269

------------------------------------------------------New to the Market at

NEWLINE ROAD, ELPHIN, CO. ROSCOMMON

4 bedroomed detached residence on a large fully landscaped site with a small garden shed. Accommodation consists of a sitting soom with an open fire place and bay window, large kitchen cum dining room, utility, downstairs toilet and WHB, patio doors leading onto the garden, 4 bedrooms with one En-suite, one currently been used as a study and a bathroom. The residence is finished to a high standard. Viewing is highly recommended. For further information contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

The Walk, Roscommon

Houses on market with Hughes & Company Hughes & Company have an attractive large fourbedroomed bungalow for sale at The Walk, Roscommon. Accommodation consists of sitting room, kitchen cum dining room, four bedrooms with one ensuite and a bathroom. The residence is on a large corner site with large garage to the rear. The residence is in excellent condition. Offers in excess of €200,000 are being considered for this fine property. The company have for sale at Runnabracken, Roscommon a four-bedroomed detached bungalow on a circa half-site with a range of out-offices. Accommodation consists of a sitting room, kitchen cum dining room, utility, four bedrooms and bathroom. The residence has the benefit of solid fuel and oil-fired central heating. There is also an option of purchasing an old stone dwelling, a three-bay hayshed, lean-to, cattle pen and crush, if required. The property is located approximately five miles from Roscommon and just off the main Castlerea to Roscommon Road. For further information you can contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Large site at popular Roscommon location For sale at The Walk, Roscommon is a large site with the benefit of outline planning permission. The site is located in one of Roscommon’s most sought after areas. Selling to offers in excess of €70,000. Enquiries to 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Townhouse provides ideal investment opportunity Hughes & Company have for sale a four-bedroomed Townhouse located at Church Street, Roscommon. The residence is in need of some modernisation but is located in a prominent location close to the Church, schools and all located amenities. This would be an ideal investment opportunity. For further information contact the office on 0906627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

------------------------------------------------------For sale at

THE WALK, ROSCOMMON

3 bedroomed semi-detached residence with a number of stores to the rear. The residence is located in a prominent location convenient to the town of Elphin. The property can be sold with a large site to the side or in two lots if required.

Large site with the benefit of outline planning permission. The site is located in one of Roscommons most sought after areas. Selling to every offer in excess of €70,000 -------------------------------------------------------

ENTITLEMENTS

Number of entitlements for sale or lease Contact the office for further information on 090 6627003 -------------------------------------------------------

LAND TO LET

The company still have a number of farms to let For more information contact the office on 090 6627003

Greenmount House’ at the Galway Road, Roscommon

Strong interest in ‘Greenmount House’ Pat Hughes is reporting that ‘Greenmount House’ at the Galway Road, Roscommon is generating a lot of interest at present. Pat is encouraging interested parties to talk to him as this is one of the finest properties to come on the market in recent years. The property needs some modernisation and is located close to all amenities. For further details or to make an appointment to view phone 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

PropertyPeople Prime Derrane bungalow new to the market at Earley’s David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering new to the market a highly attractive four-bedroomed detached bungalow residence of c. 1,700 sq. ft. located at Hollywell, Derrane, Co. Roscommon. Price guide: €200,000 ono to sell. David describes the property as “a most impressive bungalow residence of c. 1,700 sq. ft. located in a select countryside location convenient to Roscommon town and all amenities.” He adds: “Standing on a large mature site area, this property is presented for

Stonepark, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Galway Road residence is ‘Property of the Week’ with John Earley

FINAL OFFERS INVITED TO LET A CHARACTER AND LANDMARK PUBLIC HOUSE

“AN TOBAR” LOCATED AT THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TOWN. Lease terms negotiable Hollywell, Derrane, Co. Roscommon

sale in excellent condition throughout and offers spacious living accommodation combined with a large detached garage set to the side. “This is a select property to come available in this sought after residential location and we now invite

Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are pleased to announce that they are now able to offer prospective vendors the ability to sell their property using their secure online BidX1 auction system. John Earley commented: “We are delighted to launch our new facility which is an exciting new initiative that has proved successful thus far. As the market continues to improve at a very steady rate, the methods that people wish to communicate and bid for properties also continue to evolve. “We now find a large portion of our prospective purchasers come from the UK or

viewings and all offers to sell.” For further details, please contact David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, log onto www.propertypartners.ie or email ddiffley@ propertypartners.ie.

the USA and the online auction system is of great benefit to these clients as they may not be available to attend the conventional public auctions. They also like the speed and transparency of the online auction system which means that they can complete a deal a lot quicker that the conventional private treaty method. For further details or for a free appraisal of your property contact John Earley, FIPAV or David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579, email jearley@propertypartners. ie, or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

A prime town centre traditional public house with an established trade. The said property offers excellent potential and the auctioneers now invite enquiries and final offers. Lease terms negotiable. Viewing by appointment. BER: D1. LEGAL: TERRY O’KEEFFE, SOLICITOR, ABBEY ST, ROSCOMMON. TEL. 090 66 26239. -------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET QUALITY 5 B/R LUXURY DETACHED RESIDENCES OF C. 1,700 SQ.FT EACH LOCATED AT

49, 50, 51 CASTLEMANOR, RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN Prices from €134,000 - €210,000

41 acres at Donamon

PSRA Licence No. 001350

●

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

Online BidX1 Auction facility now available at Earley’s

John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley is this week offering new to the market a most attractive fourbedroomed split-level residence of c. 2,025 sq. ft. for sale at Stonepark, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. John says the property is standing on a beautifully mature site area beside Roscommon town. The residence offers spacious living accommodation throughout with the benefit of a most convenient location only c. 2.8 km from Roscommon town centre. “This is a quality property to come on the market in this highly sought after residential location and we now invite immediate viewings and all offers for sale.” For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

PSA Licence number: 001481 PSRA Licence No. 001481

Property Sales ● Lettings ● Valuations

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

Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton (Athleague) is offering for sale a prime parcel of lands set out in one lot comprising c. 41 acres holding huge potential at Carrigans Park, Donamon, Co. Roscommon. For further details contact the office on 090-6663700.

Lands have great potential

NEW TO THE MARKET: C. 19.15 Acres at

CLOONSLANOR, STROKESTOWN , CO. ROSCOMMON

Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton (Athleague) is offering for sale a prime parcel of lands containing c. 1.6 acres holding huge potential for building sites (subject to planning permission), located adjacent to Curraghboy village, on the Kiltoom/ Athlone Road. For further details contact the office on 090-6663700.

• Prime parcel of lands c. 19.15 Acres • Unrivalled views over Cloonfree Lough • Full Planning Permission for construction of Dormer Residence • Derelict cottage standing on the lands suitable for renovation • Within walking distance of Strokestown and all amenities • All offers invited for immediate sale For map & further information contact our office on 09066 63700

FARM FOR LEASE

C. 48 ACRES

C. 53.5 ACRES IN ONE LOT

AGHALATEEVE, CREGGS, CO. GALWAY

CARNAKIT, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON

• Prime Agricultural Lands c.48 acres • Can be let in one or two lots • Slatted shed standing thereon • Being leased for a 5 year term • With entitlements of c. €4,500 p.a. Final Offers by Friday 24th April 2017 at 5pm

• Prime Agricultural Lands c.53.5 acres • Located in renowned farming district • Being leased for a 5 year term • Can be let short term if desired • With entitlements For further details call Ivan on 086-8985013

NEXT PROPERTY AUCTION FRIDAY 26th May 2017 List your property in the Auction by 28th April Contact Ivan on 086-8985013 for further details

Properties sought for disappointed underbidders Due to a lot of recent sales, Hughes & Company require properties for disappointed underbidders. In particular, they require properties in the Roscommon area. Pat Hughes & Co. Auctioneers are offering a three-bedroomed cottage for sale at Carrownalasson, Fourmilehouse, Roscommon. It is located on circa one acre, with access to two roads. Final offers are now being accepted no later than 5 pm on Friday, 21st of April 2017. If you are thinking of buying or selling contact Pat, let him advise you. His advice is free. Enquiries to 0906627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Luxury 5 B/R detached houses located in the exclusive Castlemanor development. The said residences are finished to various levels of completion. Offering an excellent opportunity to acquire a part finished or finished property to individual standards. BER: B2 (provisional). -------------------------------------------------------------------

FINAL OFFERS INVITED A QUALITY 4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF C. 1,827 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

CLOONAGEERAGH, KILROOSKY, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON Final offers after €100,000 to sell

A quality 4 b/r detached bungalow situated on a generous site area of over c. ½ acre located only c. 5 miles from Roscommon town in a select countryside area convenient to the local shop, pub & Church. The property is currently at builders finish level thus allowing for the purchaser to put his/her individual touch to the finish of same. The auctioneer now invite immediate viewings and final offers after €100,000 to sell. BER: C3.

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

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

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

Enda (centre) pictured with Minister Michael Ring (far left) and Louise Ward, Head of Roscommon LEO (far right) at the Roscommon IBYE Awards back in 2015.

Enda takes his ‘best idea’ home to Roscommon  DAN DOONER

nda Mahon left school not long after completing the Junior Cert and like many young men at the time decided to go into the booming construction industry. When recession hit, the only option was to emigrate in order to find work. Enda chose Brisbane in Australia and it was there that he came up with a business idea that not only earned him a Young Entrepreneur award in 2015 but also looks set to provide employment back in his native Roscommon. “Business was always something in my mind. I went working for local people like Ward and Burke when I left school for a number of years. I worked in England too. Due to the downturn I went to Australia and worked with Murphy Pipe and Civil in Brisbane. I was over there for six years, started as labourer and worked my way up to supervisor,” he said. It was while working as a supervisor that Enda saw the potential danger to workers involved in the transportation of pipes. He said: “When I became supervisor I stood back and saw that there was danger. The pipes would be transported by trailer and they’d be strapped down and there would be wedges and all that but it’s a danger zone. I stood back and wondered how I could solve the problem. “I came up with a system that would secure the pipes on any ISO trailer and it’s operated by remote control. The truck driver doesn’t have to get out of the cab so the pipes can come off without labour. I can create a 30-metre exclusion zone now and you’re saving money and saving time.” Enda’s company, ProGrip Systems, is at the product patent stage and has already attracted potential investors. He expects the product to be at the manufacturing stage this year and ready to roll out to the main global pipeline players in places like the US, Australia and Asia. However, none of this post-recession success story would be possible without

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Enda Mahon of ProGrip Systems.

help from local organizations, according to Enda. “I was in Australia thinking ‘I want to do this at home’ ‘How can I do it?’ I got talking to a family friend and found LEO on the Internet. I contacted Louise Ward as soon as I came home and had a meeting with her. From there on I got mentoring and practice for doing my pitch. They’ve given me grants and very good contacts. I won the Young Entrepreneur award for Best Idea in 2015 and then I went on to do the New Frontiers programme in Athlone,” he said.

A grateful Enda also had high praise for James Donlon and WestBic and Nick Allen and the New Frontiers programme in Athlone. He said: “There is support for businesses in Roscommon. I’ve hit walls but I’ve got over them. The mountain is still there but I’ll climb it!” With the support of everyone involved in the ProGrip project as well as his partner Gisella, daughter Lilly and son Oliver, Enda will be hoping to scale the mountain following the launch of his ‘best idea’ over the next few months.

Your business is our business ...! The Roscommon People is committed to promoting local businesses If you have a business-related story that you would like us to highlight or would like your business to be profiled, Please email news@roscommonpeople.ie and/or call 090 66 34633

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Classifieds

Everyone wants it Everyone reads it 80,000 PEOPLE READ OUR NEWSPAPER EVERY WEEK!

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

ACCOUNTANTS AND TAX ADVISERS To farmers and small businesses at fees that the small businessman can afford. Advice and consultations free. Pat Baxter & Company, Accounting Services, Clondra. Tel: (043) 3326125, (087) 2251591. Email: clondra@iol.ie Web: www.patbaxterco.ie

BOUNCING CASTLES

Party Pat’s Bouncing Castles 087-7859960 • Castles • Slides • Obstacle Courses Good rates available

ROSCOMMON CASTLES

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS ST. COMAN’S CLUB, ROSCOMMON Tuesday 1pm; Tuesday 9pm; Wednesday 1pm; Thursday 1pm; Thursday 9pm; Saturday 8.30pm; Sunday 12 noon Phone: (01) 4538988 or (091) 767777.

BLOCK AND BRICKLAYING

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Phone No: (087) 4136355

Gerrity Bouncy Castles

•Serving County Roscommon and surrounding area • For all Special Occasions • Standard Castles, Combi Castles, Obstacle Courses and much more.

PHONE NO: 087 4668675

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

Complete Chimney Services

• Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open fires

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Pwer washing and gutter cleaning services.

Please contact: Tel: 087 2798704

CHIROPRACTOR

DENTAL

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Dental Design Studio

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Phone: (086) 8433433

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

VHI and Laya Covered

COUNSELLING CHIROPODIST COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CAR VALETING

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

CAREER ADVICE

Provided in the comfort of your own home Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

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

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.

DRIVING LESSONS

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

COMPUTERS

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

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

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

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

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 A E SYL’s School of Motoring

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

Contact: 085 1348779 Learn to drive with ....

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

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

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

Excellent pass rates  DOES YOUR COMPUTER NEED A SPRING CLEAN? Call Colm 086 6099968 for all your PC/ laptop repairs and services. Call out service available.

DRIVING LESSONS

ACCOUNTS

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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

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

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Classifieds FARMING

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

FOR HIRE

FOR SALE

RM TOOL HIRE

Large selection of calves for sale at our approved premises. Can be delivered if required. Phone Paddy : 087 4116003

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

 A B AT TO I R S E R VI C E AVA I L A B L E : Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. TEL: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715.

WANTED Bulls, cows, heifers or bullocks. Lame cattle considered. Leitrim, Sligo, Roscommon or Longford area. Tel: 085 1743431.  FOR SALE: Hay & Silage Fuerty/Castlecoote area. Tel: 087 7671147  FOR SALE: AA and Hereford calves, bulls and Heifers. Can be delivered. Call Mark on: 086 1996367.  PRESSURE TREATED STAKES FOR SALE: • 6ft stakes 4inch only €2.40 per stake or bale of 70 for €160 delivered • 5ft stakes 3inch only €2 per stake or bale of 100 for €180 delivered • Pressure treated Larch Strainers 8ft 7-10inch only €11 delivered or bale of 25 only €250 delivered • 200 meter rolls barbed wire €25 per roll • 100 meter 3ft sheep wire €75 per roll. Also staples and nails available. Contact Tom on 086 2628439.

FENCING 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

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

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

Phone John on 087 2860428

GARDENING 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.

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.

www.parklawntreeservices.com

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms

• Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

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

Home Maintenance •Garden Fencing •Patio/Decking •Indoor/outdoor painting •Hedge cutting •General maintenance •No job too small Contact 086 0815802 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

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

• Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy • Dry needling • Thai Massage Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

(087) 9201818 Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

FOR SALE

KENNELS

 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.

LISBROCK BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY

HEALTH & WELL-BEING 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

HERBALIST Herbal Medicine Iridology Natural Healing

Jill Farrell MA, MH, Ir, Master Medical Herbalist ROSCOMMON: Tattie Hoaker, Goff St. BALLAGHADERREEN: Willowbrook Natural Healing Clinic

For appointments:

Mobile: 085 1570821 Email: jill@jillsnaturalherbals.ie Web: www.jillsnaturalherbalpractice.ie ● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

Tel: 087 2721757 www.aobtherapies.com www.facebook.com/ AOBTherapies Vouchers available online

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

Our deadline is strictly 2pm on Tuesday We cannot guarantee publication after this time

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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

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

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

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

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs

CONTACT JOHN 086 4679798

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 PLANNINGS THERAPIST

PLANNINGS Roscommon County Council

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic 18 years experience in treating babies to adults Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes Can we help you? Call us today to enquire Ph. 090 663 0009 Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com We are now located at: 2 Castleview, Castle Street, Roscommon F42 C902

PLANNINGS Roscommon County Council We, Conor Martin and Emma Dolan intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct two storey dwelling, domestic garage, proprietary effluent treatment system and percolation area, associated site development words and services at Corramore, Kiltoom, Co Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural & Design Services Ltd, Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon, Phone: 090 6626974, 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the 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 Skyvalley Rovers FC intend to apply for full planning permission to erect floodlighting to main pitch along with associated site works at Onagh Td., Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Rose Phelan, Secretary, Skyvalley Rovers FC. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

We, Tracey McHugh & John Dunning wish to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for development of a new dwelling house, domestic garage, gated entrance with boundary treatment, domestic septic tank with percolation area, and all ancillary site works at Coolnageer, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. 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 in writing to the 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.

Signed: Murphy & McGerr Architecture, 1st Floor, 6 Centre Court, Blyry Business & Commercial Park, Athlone, Co Westmeath ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Very Rev. Jaroslaw Maszkiewicz P.P. intend to apply for Permission for I. The construction of a single storey dwelling house including the installation of a septic tank, sewage treatment unit and raised percolation area. II. The renovation of an existing dwelling house for the use of a prayer room including the demolition of two-storey extension to rear of the dwelling. III. The demolition of 2 no. existing outbuildings. IV. New entrance onto public road along with connections to all services and all other associated site works. At: Newtown Td, Whitehall, Co. Roscommon. 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 in writing to the 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.

Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

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 People Friday 21 April 2017

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, James Dooney, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for an extension and all associated works to the existing dwelling at Sheepwalk, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon. Signed: MoleskinArchitecture Mote Park, Roscommon 086 348 2387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the 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. to grant permission.

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

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

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED  HOUSE TO LET: Two bed roomed house, suit elderly person. OFCH in Tulsk/Elphin area. TEL: 087 4359031/089 2350734  TO RENT: Two bedroomed house suitable for elderly or single persons. TEL: 087 4359031 or 089 4224122 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.

SITUATIONS VACANT  CARER REQUIRED to do night duty in elderly lady’s home, Sunday to Friday, 10pm to 8am (hours negotiable). Roscommon Town area. Please apply with an indication of nightly rate and references to PO Box 1002, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon  PART-TIME PAYROLL ADMINISTRATOR required for a company based in Roscommon town, immediate start. Flexible hours. Please send CV to accounts1@ halcyongroup.ie Closing date Wednesday 26th April. Nursing & home care people.

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

PHOTOGRAPHER BC Photography Available for: Christenings, Holy Communions Confirmations, Portraits. TEL: 094 988059. Mobile: 089 9530397.

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

Immediate need to support couple; Ballintubber, Castleplunkett area. Hours available in the morning, evening, overnight and weekends. Please send CV and Refs to Po Box 999 c/o of Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

REFLEXOLOGY

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

TUITION

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

TURF, FIREWOOD AND FUEL

GRINDS IN JUNIOR AND LEAVING CERTIFICATE BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTING

TOM KILDUFF CABS

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone: 086 2437376.

Tutoring for college students in Business, Accountancy and Taxation.

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

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849.

ROSCOMMON MATHS GRINDS Abbey Hotel Roscommon Experienced Higher Level Teacher Outstanding results record Limited places available

Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

KELLY’S EYE Taxi and Mini Bus hire.

PHONE: 087-2727888.

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine Beirne 086 3688302 EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

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

SITUATIONS WANTED  CHILDMINDER AVAILABLE FOR CREGGS AREA in Childminders own home. FETAC Level 5&6 qualified and 7+ years experience in childminding facility and crèche. Qualified in First Aid and educated in Special Needs also. Contact: Amanda, 087 0666542  FETAC LEVEL 5 CHILDMINDER AVAILABLE playroom set up with hot dinners and snacks. Full/ part-time places available Monday to Friday. Limited positions Tel: 086 7316358  PERSON AVAILABLE TO DO LIGHT HOUSEWORK, CLEANING AND IRONING in the Elphin/Strokestown area. Apply to Box No: 1001, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Call car direct

(086) 2714879

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

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

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

CLEANOUT

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring: 087 9657933/090 66267532

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

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

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

Contact: 087 6718564

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

LOFT LADDERS Aluminium

Supplied & Fitted From

0 ONLY €15 The company that can do all them small jobs 094 96 31880 087 9100477 www.oddjobsolutions.ie

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

Contact Vincent on 083 4130827

THANKSGIVINGS THE FRIDAY PRAYER Almighty Arms of Jesus before You I come with all my faith beg you for comfort in my difficult situations. Do not forsake me. Good Jesus, open your doors, in my way that Your Almighty Arms will open and close as you desire to give me the tranquillity that I so desire ( mention requests ). Oh my God, please receive that supplication from a wounded heart that is always fighting for me. With Your divine power never let me scramble for want of help. Almighty Jesus assist me to find a shelter in your celestial country ever. Amen Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in thee (3 times). This prayer must be started on Friday and said for 15 days with a lighted candle, please use the same candle each day and put it out after you say the prayer on the last day. (Friday) Let the candle burn out to the end. (This is a very powerful prayer that when said wit sincere faith from the heart will be answered. Make sure to pass on this prayer to all people who need it in their times of difficulties. Don’t forget the thanksgiving for all prayers answered). S.L. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. C.G. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Y.H. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. G.F.

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

FamilyNotices THANKSGIVINGS PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, You who make me see everything and showed me the way to reach my ideals, You who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me, and you who are in all instances of my life with me. I want to thank You for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your Perpetual Glory. Amen. Mention your request. While making the request, promise to either publish this prayer of to circulate the favour. Say prayer for three days. After the third day, the request will be granted.M.K. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted.M.K. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask for this special one (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own broken heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Many thanks. T.J. THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. T.J.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

DONOGHUE David

O’MALLEY John Joe

Flynn Joe

Birthday Remembrance (40th Birthday - 21st April 2017) Moher, Lanesboro, Co Roscommon

Cloonslanor Strokestown Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) who died 24th April 2015

Mount Talbot Roscommon (25th Anniversary) who died on 20th April 1992

It is with great sadness we remember David’s 40th Birthday, today 21st April, 2017 I, Mary and family wish to offer our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support and sympathy we received on the death of David. We thank most sincerely the huge numbers who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, those who travelled long distances, those who sent Mass and sympathy cards. We thank Dr. Colm Farrell and Fr. Dusmanta for attending to David on the morning of his death. We would also like to thank the Roscommon Gardai and Paramedics for their support and advice. We thank our neighbours and friends who comforted and assisted us in every way. A special word of thanks to Pat Smyth and family, Undertakers, for handling David’s Funeral in such a sensitive and professional manner. We would like to thank Fr. Mickey Reilly for the beautiful Mass and Teresa Costello for the beautiful singing. A special thanks to Bernard Keane and staff and to Eileen and Siobhan from Innis Ree Lodge for bringing hot food to the house, it was much appreciated. We would like to thank Mary and Patricia from the Sisters Restaurant for providing refreshments after the Funeral and to Alan and Martha Farrell for supplying teas and coffees to everyone. Thanks to all David’s Rally friends for the Guard of Honour and preparing his final resting place with such care and professionalism. We would like to thank John and Rita who cancelled their holiday on the morning to spend time with us. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually we trust this Acknowledgement will be accepted by all as a token of our deepest gratitude and appreciation.

To us you were some one special, someone kind and true: You’ll never be forgotten, as we thought the world of you.

Sadly missed by his loving daughter Caroline, son-in law, Thomas & grandsons Patrick, Eoin & Tomas Anniversary Mass on Sunday 23rd April at 10am in Curraghroe Church

MANNION Eileen Castlestrange, Castlecoote,

Roscommon who passed away on the 26th of April 2014 3rd Anniversary

A light is from our household gone. A voice we loved is stilled. A place is vacant in our home That never can be filled.

Sadly missed, remembered and loved by your wife Mary & family. Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Saturday April 22nd at 7pm.

COYNE John James Milltown, Dysart Co. Roscommon. 3rd Anniversary

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

BEIRNE Dermot Moydow, Athleague, Co Roscommon

In Loving Memory of Dermot Beirne, who died on 19th April 2013 4th Anniversary

Every day in some small way Memories of you come our way No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you Loved and missed every day from your loving wife Avril and sons Kevin and Emmet.

~~~~~~~~~~ In Loving Memory of Dermot Beirne, Your memory is a keepsake from which we shall never part. God has you in his keeping we have you in our hearts. Deeply missed by your parents, Paddy and Mary, brother Padraig and sister Maura and extended family. RIP Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday 22nd April at 7pm.

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

They say there is a reason, They say that time will heal, But neither time or reason, Will change the way we feel, For no one knows the heartache, That lies beyond our smiles, No one knows how many times, We have broken down and cried, We want to tell you something, So there won’t be any doubt, You’re so wonderful to think of, But so hard to be without. We cannot bring the old days back, When we were all together, The family chain is broken now, But memories live forever

Deeply loved and sadly missed by husband Martin, daughter Órla, sons Paul and Andrew, son-in-law Adrian, daughters-in-law Audrey and Fiona, and her grandchildren Rónan, Cathal, Nicole, Eve and Martin Anniversary Mass on Sunday 23rd of April 2017 in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague at 10.00am.

In Loving Memory of John James who died on 24th April 2014. Your memories Are so special Your presence Missed so much You will always be Remembered and Missed by all of us Our thoughts are Always with you In a very special way Not just on your anniversary But every single day No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place Within our hearts Will always be with you It broke our hearts To lose you But you did not go alone For part of us went with you The day God called you home.

Sadly missed, loved and remembered by your sisters Agnes, Margaret, family and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Friday 5th May at 7:30pm

McDONNELL (NEE STAUNTON)

Mary Coolegarry, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, who passed away peacefully in Portiuncula Hospital on 13th March 2017

Mary’s daughter Marie and her partner Mark, sister, brothers, relatives and friends wish to offer their sincere gratitude and appreciation to all who sympathised with them and to all who supported her and them throughout her illness and in their recent sad loss. A special thanks to family, friends and great neighbours who brought food and refreshments, who helped with traffic and arranged parking, prepared and served the food for all who attended the Funeral, allowing the family the freedom to spend time with her over those last few days. A special thanks to Dr Martin and Dr Miriam Daly of Ballygar whom she attended regularly, to Dr Florrie Daniels and his Team, nurses and all staff of Portiuncula Hospital and Palliative Care for all their care and kindness in Mary’s final weeks. Thanks to David Hynes and Pharmacy staff for their help and assistance to Mary and her late husband Sonny, on many occasions over their years of attendance. A sincere word of thanks to Fr. Lee and Deacon Gacquin, for their dedication to Mary and her family throughout her illness. A special word of thanks to Fr Lee for his beautiful Homily. Also thanks to Fr. Kilbane and Deacon Gacquin who concelebrated her Funeral Mass. Our deepest gratitude to the undertaker, Donie Hamrock, for his courtesy and professionalism in arranging her Funeral. Many thanks to the Choir, Maura, Marian and Liam who provided the beautiful music and hymns that enhanced her Funeral Mass. A special thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Mary’s final resting place. Thanks to Paddy & Alan McCaul and the staff of the Shamrock Lodge for the beautiful meal they provided after the Funeral service. As it is not possible to thank everyone individually, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all who telephoned, sent Mass Cards and flowers and called to the house over the many days of her Funeral in such enormous crowds. Please accept this Acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Mary’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Saturday, 22nd April 2017, at 8pm.

McGOWAN Michael John

HENNIGAN Maeve

Lack, Whitehall, Roscommon 2nd Anniversary 23rd April 2015

Clooneyquinn, Fuerty, Co Roscommon, 2nd Anniversary 22nd April

He was a father So very rare, Content in his home. Those who remember him today say a little prayer.

Lovingly remembered, by his wife and family. Anniversary Mass on 23rd April 2017 in Whitehall Church at 11:30am

Your life was one of thoughtful deeds. A helping hand to others needs, Sincere and true in heart and mind, Wonderful memories you left behind.

Lovingly remembered by her husband Joe, daughters Marie, Ann, Irene, Edel and Olivia, her son Joe and extended family. FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS

FAMILY NOTICES CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 23rd April at 11:30am in the Church of the Assumption, Fuerty.

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Classifieds/FamilyNotices

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

AtYourService

HANNON Patrick (Paddy) (2nd Anniversary)

Treasured memories of our beloved father and grandfather, Patrick (Paddy) Hannon, Bornacurra, Ballygar, Co. Galway who died on April 23rd 2015 The Lord saw you getting tired, so, He put his arms around you and whispered “Come with me.” Your dearest friend and our darling Mum had just earlier passed away. Each day we saw how much you missed her, and when God called, you couldn’t stay. If tears could make a staircase and heartaches make a lane. We’d walk the path to Heaven, and bring ye home again. A golden heart stopped beating, your beautiful smile at rest. God broke our hearts again to prove, He always takes the best. It’s lonesome here without you both, we miss you so each day. Our lives just aren’t the same ever since ye went away. When days are sad and lonely And everything goes wrong, We hear you gently whisper, “Cheer up and carry on” Each time we see your picture. you seem to smile and say, “don’t cry, I’m here with your Mum we’ll all meet again some day”. Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same, but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. You dwell among the angels now and you deserve a well-earned rest. You are forever in our thoughts, Dad, you were simply the best!

Forever loved and sadly missed by your loving sons John, Joseph and Kevin, daughters Ann and Mary, daughter-in-law Anne, son-in-law John and his grandchildren Lisamarie, Shauna, Rachel and Ciara. ~~~~~~~~~~ GRANDAD We are sending a butterfly to Heaven with a parcel on its wings, be careful when you open it Grandad it’s full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses, inside are a million tears, wrapped up in a million hugs, to say how much we miss you and to send you all our love. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

Love, your grandchildren, Lisamarie, Shauna, Rachel and Ciara, xxxx Paddy’s Second Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Brendan’s Church, Toghergar on Sunday 23rd April at 9.30 am. Say a prayer in his name May his gentle soul Rest In Peace

KILMARTIN Mary & Eddie Cams, Cloverhill, Roscommon (9th and 6th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of our dear mother, Mary, who died on 22nd April, 2008 and our dear father, Eddie who died on 6th December, 2010 Along the road of suffering, You found a little lane, That took you up to Heaven and ended all your pain. You may be out of sight, We may be worlds apart, But you are always in our prayers, And forever in our hearts. We have loved them in life, Let us not forget them in death.

Always remembered by your son Edward, daughters Marian, Ann, Dorothy and Carmel, sons-in-law, granddaughter and all extended family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 22nd April, 2017 in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloverhill at 8.00 p.m.

MORGAN Owen (April 24th 2016) Owen’s children, Marina, Marcus and David would like to take this opportunity on the occasion of Owen’s First Anniversary to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to all our extended family, friends, neighbours and work colleagues who helped us through our bereavement. On behalf of all the family we thank those of you who attended Owen’s funeral, sent Mass cards and messages of sympathy, made donations to the Irish Heart Foundation or other expressions of support and comfort. We also want to thank all those who cared for Owen during his illness including the staff of Millrace Nursing Home, carers from Roscommon Home Services and Roscommon Disability Support Group, Elizabeth Delaney, Dr. David Sharkey, and nurses and doctors in Roscommon and Portiuncula hospitals. Our heartfelt thanks to Monsignor Travers who celebrated the Funeral Mass. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as a sincere token of our appreciation. Owen’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, April 23rd at 10.30 a.m.

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PLANNING NOTICES EXTRA ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Brendan & Emma Healy for PLANNING PERMISSION TO CONSTRUCT DWELLING HOUSE WITH DOMESTIC GARAGE AND TREATMENT SYSTEM WITH PERCOLATION AREA AND CARRYOUT ALL ANCILLARY SITE WORKS at Stonepark Td, Roscommon,Co.Roscommon. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, (Ph Office: 090 6627950), (Andy 086 3646210), (James 087 8228529), info@morrislohan.ie. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of John & Aoife Connolly to construct a dwellinghouse, garage, waste water treatment system & associated siteworks at Castlecoote Td, Co. Roscommon. Signed Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Ph (087) 2222874, Seamusmurray60@gmail. com The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that 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 & 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.

/RYH·V *UHDWHVW *LIW 5HPHPEUDQFH

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FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE 18/04/17 FIRST PRIZE €50: Marina Cribben c/o Donellan SECOND PRIZE €25: Frank Lennon c/o K Hoare THIRD PRIZE €20: Michael Oates c/o Eight Til Late 8 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Katie Connelly c/o Magnums; Michael Connaughton c/o K Hoare; Patricia c/o Donellan’s; Roisin Feeley, Beechgrove, Roscommon; P Mee c/o Kathleen Collins; Mary McDermott c/o K Hoare; Rachel Tully c/o Ros Vet Supplies; Glady’s & Kevin c/o K Hoare; 5 PROMOTERS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Kathleen Gordon, Kathleen Hoare, Thomas Hoare, Breda Healy, Mickey Hoare

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Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

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Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

NewsPeople

Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Martin Keane, Bosco Smyth and Liam Scahill.

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Orla Healy, Ita Kelly and Edwina Regan.

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Orla Healy and Andrew Fox.

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Dave Healy, David Fallon and Claire Keane.

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Ray Dunne, CDO, Roscommon Civil Defence, Roisín McGuire, Civil Defence and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon County Council.

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Paddy Mullen, Maura Donnellan and Ray Dunne, CDO, Roscommon Civil Defence.

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Paddy and Mary Duignan.

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Margaret and Padraig Dunne.

Pictured at the Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel were Clive Guthrie, Basil Finan, Michael Fox, John Tobin, Margaret Treacy, Ann Tobin and Aidan Raftery.

Ann Tobin, John Tobin and Clive Guthrie make a presentation to Cllr. Tony Ward, Chairman of Roscommon County Council at the recent Roscommon Civil Defence Awards Night in Hannon’s Hotel. The presentation was to mark Climb With John.

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Sports People

WEXFORD END LADIES’ LEAGUE RUN Joanne Cregg in action against Wexford’s Georgina Hearne in the Lidl Ladies Division 3 Semi-Final last Sunday in Clane. Match report on page 47. Pic: Piaras Ó Midheach/Sportsfile

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

36 SportsPeople This weekend’s action There is a mixed meeting at Tipperary this evening starting at 5.10 pm and consisting of 4 flat and 3 hurdle races. Tomorrow they race on the all-weather at Dundalk, 5 pm, and over the sticks as Kilbeggan hosts its first all NH meeting of 2017 away at 5 pm. On Saturday in Limerick they race on the level, first race away at 1.45 pm. Sunday racing moves to Proudstown Park outside Navan for a flat card, first away at 2.15 pm and Navan race again on Monday evening. Tuesday sees the beginning of the last of the major national hunt festivals at Punchestown and it runs until Saturday. Kilbeggan on Friday features 2 maiden hurdles, 2 handicap hurdles, a mares beginners chase, a handicap chase and a bumper. With an entry of 222 horses it is very difficult to find any potential winners for you. Rockfield winner Flirting Lesa is in the bumper but looks to have a difficult task.

Racing at Punchestown

Horses for Courses

There are twelve Grade 1 races at the Punchestown Festival next week with three on Tuesday, the highlight of which is the Boyle Sports Champion Chase, supported by the Champion Novice Chase and Champion Novice Hurdle. Also on the card is the €100k Goffs Land Rover Bumper. Racing opens with the Fr Sean Breen Memorial Chase over the spectacular cross-country course. Wednesday sees another three Grade 1 races the Coral Punchestown Gold Cup with Novice Hurdle and the Punchestown Champion Bumper, another two €100k races. Racing on both days starts at 3.40 pm.

Roscommon People Friday 03 March 2017

We will look at the final three days in more detail in next week’s column when we will have access to the runners and riders. Gigginstown’s Tell Us More didn’t run in the Irish Grand National, but he’ll probably run in the BoyleSports Champion Chase on Tuesday. Disco and Death Duty will be the probable selections in the Champion Novice Chase and Hurdle respectively.

Fairyhouse report Road to Respect was the beneficiary as Yorkhill snatched defeat from the jaws of victory In the Ryanair Gold Cup Novice Chase on Sunday with a display of jumping that lost lengths at each jump by going out to the left. He was beaten a fast diminishing neck by Road To Respect who jumped straight as an arrow. Leading on the approach to the last, the favourite almost ran out through the wing allowing Road To Respect the advantage and despite Ruby’s driving finish on the fav he just failed to get up. Ball D’arc was 3rd ½l further back. There was another shock earlier as Augusta Kate and David Mullins prevailed over odds on stable mate Let’s Dance and Ruby Walsh in the mares Novice Hurdle Final. The fav hit the front at the secondlast but Augusta Kate would not be beaten and prevailed by ½l at the line with Barra 6½l away in 3rd. James Sheehan’s Hurricane Ben made every post a winning one in the BoyleSports Novice Handicap Chase as Davy Russell drove him on when Don’t Touch It challenged turning for home to win by 8l. There was only a head back to Elusive

Agusta Kate, near side, holds on from Let’s Dance.

Ivy in third. In the Irish Grand National on Monday, Robbie Power and Jessica Harrington’s good season rolled on as Our Duke ran out an easy winner from Bless The Wings with Abolitionist 3rd, 14l and ¾l away. This fine performance did not go unnoticed by the handicapper who raised him 14lb for his win. In this race, Barry Geraghty, just back from injury two weeks, broke his arm in a fall from Minella Foru and will be out for 10 to 12 weeks missing Punchestown. Bless The Wings second place was worth €100k to Gordon Elliott in the race to be champion trainer and makes Willie Mullins’ task to catch him all the more difficult despite the twelve Grade 1 races at Punchestown. Jamie Codd has opened up a lead of 3 over Patrick Mullins in the Amateur riders championship and will also be difficult to catch. On Tuesday, in the Ladies’ Grand National, 20/1 shot Coldstonesober beat Mtada Supreme and Thomond by 5l and 30l. The horse was probably one of the few that matched his name on the course. The 11–Y-O was ridden by Aine O’Connor who is attached to Harry Fry’s yard in England.

General news

by Tom Red Our Duke and Robbie Power are clear over the last.

Seabass owned locally by the Gunners Syndicate, based around the west Roscommon east Galway border, has died at the age of 14. The gelding, who twice

came back from injury, finished 3rd in the 2012 Aintree Grand National with Katie Walsh aboard, the best finish in the race by a female jockey. Trained by Walsh’s father, Ted, Seabass was behind Neptune Collonges and Sunyhillboy. A family pet, three members of the Walsh family rode Seabass: Ruby, Katie and her husband Ross O’Sullivan. Roscommon butcher John Harte is a member of the syndicate. The horse gave his owners great memories winning 9 of his 30 races including point to points and was in the place money also on 9 occasions.

Point to point view There are five meetings this weekend starting at 4 pm in Largy, Co. Antrim on Friday and continuing with a second days racing on Saturday with the first at 2 pm. On Sunday, there are three meetings down for decision at Ballysteen in Co. Limerick, Dromahane in Co. Cork, both with a 2 pm start and inside the track at Fairyhouse half an hour later at 2.30 pm.

Competition Corner The winners of our three pairs of tickets for the first meeting of the season at Kilbeggan tomorrow are: Anthony Flaherty, Athleague, Cathal O’Brien, Ballintubber and Joe Rooney, Oran who all knew Kilbeggan Racecourse is located in Co. Westmeath. Tickets can be collected from the office in Abbey Street from 2 pm today (Thursday).

Go Games Provincial Day at Croke Park

Mikey Keadin (Michael Glavey’s) in action at the recent Go Games Provincial Day at Croke Park. Pic: Éoin Noonan/Sportsfile

Jamie Regan (Michael Glavey’s) gets his shot away during the Go Games Provincial Day at Croke Park recently. Pic: Éoin Noonan/Sportsfile

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

SportsPeople

Parkrun in Castlerea! Parkrun Ireland in partnership with VHI added their 61st event last Saturday, with the introduction of the Castlerea parkrun in

the Demesne, Castlerea. Parkruns take place over a 5km course weekly, are free to enter and are open to all ages and abilities, proving

a fun and safe environment to enjoy exercise. To register for a parkrun near you visit www. parkrun.ie. Pics: Sam Barnes/Sporstfile

SICK AS A PARROT/OVER THE MOON ROSCOMMON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS

Dooner’s weekend predictions

queaky bum time in Roscommon! Some huge games this weekend but the pick of the action is Castlerea’s visit to Moore on Sunday. A win for either could prove crucial in the race for the Premier Division title.

Friday, April 21st The Herald Premier Division Ballinasloe Town v Skyvalley Rovers. 8 pm Ballinasloe could finish the season on 47 points, which may yet be enough to win the title. A win here will keep the pressure on the top three. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town Shiven Rovers v Ballymoe FC. 8 pm Ballymoe have a game in hand at the top but goal difference could prove crucial. A convincing win here would make the run-in even more interesting. Prediction: Ballymoe FC

Soccer Results The TP Brennan Connacht Cup Quarter-Final Ballinasloe Town 4 Manor Rangers 0 Boyle Celtic 2 Carbury FC 1 AET The TP Brennan Connacht Shield Quarter-Final Manulla B 3 Cam Celtic 3 AET (Cam Celtic won 5-4 on penalties) The Herald Premier Division Ballaghaderreen FC 0 Shiven Rovers 2 Challenge Cup Quarter-Final Ballymoe FC 2 Moore United 0 Norio’s Takeaway Division One Dunmore Town 4 Ballinasloe Town B 0 First Division Cup Round 1 Lough Harps 2 Kilkerrin United 4 AET Killeen Sportsgrounds Division Two Roscommon United 2 Moylough ’79 0 Ballinagare FC v Cloonfad United B, postponed. Second Division Cup Round 1 Strokestown United 2 Dunmore Town 1

Saturday, April 22nd First Division Cup Quarter-Final CP Ajax v Kilkerrin United. 6 pm This could take extra-time and penalties. Either way, the game is down for Tarmon. I repeat, Tarmon! Prediction: CP Ajax (home side), possibly on penalties. Cloonfad United v Dunmore Town. 7.30 pm The home side have had a good season and should expect to challenge in this competition. Prediction: Cloonfad United Glen Celtic v Dysart FC. 7.30 pm The champions are favourites to wrap up a double. Prediction: Dysart FC Killeen Sportsgrounds Division Two Moore United B v Castlerea Celtic B. 7.45 pm

Home side to finish on a high. Prediction: Moore United B

Sunday, April 23rd The Herald Premier Division (2 pm) St. John’s Athletic v Ahascragh United The home side have a terrific chance to leapfrog Skyvalley Rovers. Must-win. Prediction: St. John’s Athletic Moore United v Castlerea Celtic The champions can take a huge step towards retaining the league title this weekend. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic Killeen Sportsgrounds Division Two (2 pm) Ballinagare FC v Skyvalley Rovers B Ballinagare’s season has turned sour but they have an opportunity to finish on a high. Prediction: Ballinagare FC

The RDFL Premier Division 1. Castlerea Celtic 2. Moore United 3. Ballymoe F.C. 4. Ballinasloe Town 5. Ballaghaderreen FC 6. Shiven Rovers 7. Skyvalley Rovers 8. St. John’s Athletic 9. Ahascragh United 10. Brazukas * *deducted six points.

P 16 16 15 15 17 16 16 16 16 17

W 14 13 13 12 7 6 3 3 1 3

D 0 1 0 2 1 1 2 2 1 0

L 2 2 2 1 9 9 11 11 14 14

F 53 56 44 55 41 35 17 19 8 25

A 13 14 19 8 41 33 48 54 69 54

GD 40 42 25 47 0 2 -31 -35 -61 -29

Points 42 40 39 38 22 19 11 11 4 3

Cam Celtic v Strokestown United The visitors should end a terrific season unbeaten. Prediction: Strokestown United Moylough ‘79 v Cloonfad United B Home advantage could prove key here. Prediction: Moylough ‘79 Roscommon United v Hodson Bay Athletic Expecting an entertaining game between these two. It’ll probably finish 0-0! Prediction: Hodson Bay Athletic Premier Division Cup Quarter-Final Ballaghaderreen FC v Brazukas FC. 2 pm The home side will expect to progress. Prediction: Ballaghaderreen FC The Herald Premier Division Ballinasloe Town v Ballymoe FC. 8 pm A must-win for both teams as they look to keep pace at the top of the table. A draw will suit neither. Prediction: Draw

This week’s awards Game of the Week

upset last Cam Celtic have done it again! They win over tout shoo a with n ictio pred weekend’s Manulla following a 3-3 thriller.

Performance of the Week

Connacht Cup Ballinasloe Town are through to the e 4-0 win over Semi-Finals following their impressiv Manor Rangers.

Moan of the Week

No moan this week. Even Fellaini did Chelsea.

OK against

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER Tired of cricket scores in underage football! THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner

Before I begin, I genuinely believe the level of coaching has improved across all codes in Roscommon over the last number of years. However, there are still issues at the grassroots level of Gaelic football which need to be addressed if the county wants to make the most of the undoubted talent available in all clubs and schools. Every week I receive results from the underage ranks of Roscommon GAA and every week they get the same reaction: utter bemusement. Last week’s standout result was 11-8 to 1-7, which

is more like the weekend opening hours of a local supermarket than a football scoreline. Now, similar results happen across a number of sports so I’m certainly not picking on the GAA. But the reaction from some people I spoke to about this particular game really worried me. “Ah sure, that’s the usual. They have to go to Corofin or Dublin for a proper game,” said one. It has become obvious that ‘weaker’ clubs merely accept a hammering when faced with certain clubs at underage level. On the flipside, the all-conquering clubs celebrate success at underage level year in, year out. This can’t be good for an-

ers in numbthe The weet k top te ara four points sep

4 2 0

Jus Division four in the RDFL Premiert couple las the o int as they head of weeks. PGA TankLily O’Sullivan won the ek for the we t las on titi pe com ard Athlone second year in a row at Golf Club. target The number of shots on ct’ at Old from the ‘champions ele mos Trafford last weekend. Va Herrera!

yone in the county: it’s certainly demoralising for the teams on the receiving end while the victorious ‘conveyor belts’ stroll through competitions without ever reaching their full potential. Then we wonder why Roscommon struggle to be competitive on the national stage. Unfortunately, there is no quick fix for this. Underage development is a slow, patient process. The trick is to get the right coaches involved in grassroots football, the kind of coaches who understand that shortterm successes are less important than long-term development. Clubs, even the successful ones, need to be on board with this also. A rising tide lifts all boats after all.

Dion Lane (St. Ronan’s GAA) in action during the recent Go Games Provincial Day in Croke Park. Pic: Cody Glenn/Sportsfile

In the sporting diary ....

People’s Champion of the Week

Round three of Harriers race series

Dalton’s darter, John Paul Feeney, claimed the Martin Kelly Cup at the Hollywood Bar last weekend. Here he is savouring his, ahem, victory with Stephen Victory.

Race 3 of the Roscommon Harriers 5k Race Series takes place tonight (Thursday) from Hannon’s Hotel at 7 pm, registration from 6-6.45 pm, all abilities welcome!

Christy Ring Cup action! The Roscommon hurlers will travel north this Saturday to take on Down in the Christy Ring Cup at 1 pm. Best of luck to Johnny Kelly and his team!

The sporting brief Golf

McGahon wins in Roscommon! We start our round in Roscommon were last Sunday’s competition was won by Sean McGahon with 40 points ahead of Tom Greally Jnr on 38. Fionn Hoare claimed the junior prize with 39. The winner of last week’s ladies’ competition was Geraldine Relihan with 37 points. Geraldine finished ahead of Mary Cunningham on 34 points and Kate Walshe on 33. The winner of the junior prize was Olivia Costello with 17 points. Seamus Mulryan took the men’s senior competition with 36 points. The draw for the preliminary round of the Presidents’ Prize will take place on the 21st April while the men’s Spring Team Challenge is now at the semi-finals stage.

To Carrick, where a Club 4Some qualifier will take place this Saturday and Sunday (22nd and 23rd). The following weekend will see the Murphy Cup Open up for grabs. Meanwhile, Strokestown beat Glenlo Abbey in the first round of the 9-hole Inter-Club competition last Monday. John Compton’s team face Ballaghaderreen next on May 1st. Elsewhere, Anne Neary won the ladies’ Easter Bunny competition and the recent 18-hole competition. Athlone Golf Club is celebrating its 125th birthday this Sunday at the Hodson Bay Hotel. Congratulations to Lily O’Sullivan who won the PGA Tankard competition last week for the second year in succession with a great score of 38pts. Ann Marie Hynes pipped Mary Jo Farrell in the 12 Hole Competition with a great score of 24pts. Finally we go to Castlerea where

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last week’s ladies competition was won by Marian Caulfield on 36 points after a count back. Celia Mulligan was runner-up on 36 points with Margaret Henry in third on 35. Greg Bruen was best of the men on 39 points with Eddie Campion in second also on 39.

prize winners throughout the day including Alan Owens, who took home the Evan Dolan Memorial Youth Trophy, Barbara Victory, who claimed the Best Lady prize and Martin Fleming who hit the highest checkout with an impressive 160 finish.

Pitch and Putt Darts

Feeney victorious! The Hollywood Bar was the venue for the 12th annual Martin Kelly Cup last weekend. As usual, there were some great darts thrown on the day. The final was a thriller between JP Feeney and Thomas Concannon with Feeney coming out on top 6-4. There were a number of other

Martin and Sheerin grab ﬁrst! The action continued last Monday at Woodview Pitch and Putt Club as Ann Martin took first nett and Mary Sheerin took first gross ahead of Mary Cunniffe (2nd nett), Maureen Fagan (2nd gross) and Mary O’Loughlin (3rd nett). Competitions continue every Monday in Bealnamulla at 10.20 am and 7 pm. New members are welcome and clubs are supplied.

Sporting week on Tweet Street Paddy Power @paddypower Full credit to Asensio for scoring a goal that was onside. Fair play. (Real Madrid profited from a number of strange decisions on Tuesday night as they overcame Bayern Munich in the Champions League.)

Colm Parkinson @Woolberto I’d be amazed if Davy Fitzgerald doesn’t get the maximum ban possible for what he did on Sunday. There should be zero tolerance for that. (Davy’s behaviour came under the spotlight following Wexford’s defeat to Tipperary.)

Zlatan Facts @ZlatanFacts Zlatan’s nose is longer that Chelsea’s history. (Difficult to argue with…)

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

Seamus Duke ON SPORT Tipp still top as championship looms @SeamusDuke

The National Hurling League semifinals were reasonably entertaining but they underlined once again that this Tipperary team are a fair bit ahead of everyone else in the game at the moment. Wexford were very competitive for most of last Sunday’s match but when push came to shove, Tipp were clinical and they scored some fantastic goals. In the other semi-final, Galway were a good bit better than Limerick and they deserved their easy win. The final on Sunday should be competitive but I am expecting Tipperary to win it. In both football and hurling, the

league has now grown in stature and to win the secondary competition is now seen as great preparation for the championship and Tipperary would see a win on Sunday as the perfect way to prepare ahead of the defence of their title. Galway are probably the second best team in the country at the moment and Sunday’s game will show them exactly where they are. But back to Sunday and Davy Fitzgerald is in danger of letting his childish and stupid behaviour overshadow his obvious talent as a coach and motivator. His record as a coach is excellent, bringing Waterford to an

All-Ireland final, winning one with Clare, and now he has transformed the fortunes of Wexford. But racing on to the field to remonstrate with the referee and getting into a shoving match with a player is very childish. I know people love his passion and he is one of a kind, but to get involved with players is a step too far. He was in hospital earlier this year with a health scare and the kind of carry on we saw last Sunday is not good for anyone’s health. Davy Fitzgerald is one of the great characters of the GAA for sure but someone is going to have to curb him.

Wexford manager Davy Fitzgerald may face disciplinary action following his behaviour during last weekend’s National Hurling League semi-final defeat to Tipperary.

League campaign raises championship questions

United come good to dent Chelsea’s hopes Is there life in the race for the Premier League title yet? Probably not, even after last Sunday’s win by Manchester United against Chelsea because Antonio Conte’s men have a very easy run-in to the end of the season. But Spurs can keep it going to the end. They are by far the best side in the league at the moment and they are playing some fantastic football. They have some brilliant young players like Harry Kane, Dele Alli, Christian Eriksen and Eric Dier very prominent. Manchester City and Liverpool now look odds on for top four positions as they keep on winning. But Manchester United fans (and I am one of those) will be very happy at what they saw last Sunday. I know that there are a lot of people who hate United, but against Chelsea they produced their best display since Alex Ferguson left the club. They reverted to 4-4-2 which is the formation that United have always played over the years. But the question I would ask is - why can United not play like that in every game? They have become so frustrating to watch, dominating games but failing to score. Hopefully this game will see a corner turned for United but I am still waiting to be convinced.

Ronnie O’Sullivan will be hoping to sparkle at this year’s World Snooker Championships.

Box ofﬁce Ronnie can light up Crucible Over the next two weeks the World Snooker Championships will be on the TV and while it is still great viewing, it has diminished in terms of interest among the general sporting public. At least we have Ronnie O’Sullivan who is rowing with the powers that be again this week. He is probably the greatest player ever to take up a cue but he is a very erratic character. There is no doubt that when he is on his game he in unbeatable but he is too easily distracted and he should have three or four more world titles won at this stage. But at least he is box office. If he is switched on, no one will beat him, but you just wonder which Ronnie O’Sullivan will turn up every day.

St. Brigid’s are early favourites to retain the Roscommon Senior Football Championship but they are expected to face a stern challenge from across the county. Pic: Andrew Fox

Club championship throw-in draws near Here in Roscommon the local club scene is beginning to heat up and the senior football championship will be one of the most open for many years this year and remember it starts in two weeks’ time. St. Brigid’s have been the kingpins over the years but even they will admit that they have come back to the pack. They are still the team to beat for sure. But Pádraig Pearses, Clann na nGael, Western Gaels and Roscommon Gaels will all be hoping to do well this year and dark horses Strokestown and Boyle will also be in with

a chance. Then consider that St. Croan’s are blazing a trail at the top of the league Division One table with four wins out of four, it looks a really open championship. I was looking at the odds and St. Brigid’s look very skimpy at 7/4, but it’s all to play for. The odds from Paddy Power this week are as follows: St. Brigid’s 7/4, Pádraig Pearses 7/2, Clann na nGael 11/2, Roscommon Gaels 13/2, Western Gaels 15/2, St. Faithleach’s 11/1, Boyle 12/1, Strokestown 20/1, Castlerea St. Kevin’s 25/1, St. Croan’s 33/1, Elphin 40/1, Kilmore 50/1.

Outsiders provide shock in U-21 championship The U-21 football semi-finals were very interesting last weekend as both outsiders won through to the final. Dublin lost probably their best player (Con O’Callaghan) to a black card after only three minutes yet they totally dominated the game. It was definitely unfair on Donegal to ask them to play an All-Ireland semi-final just five days after playing the Ulster final but I still think that Dublin would have won because Donegal were at sea for most of the game and they were simply outclassed. But the real shock was in the other semifinal where Galway sensationally knocked out the almost unbackable favourites, Kerry. Galway were an incredible 11/2 to win but they won by far more than the

four point margin suggested. At one stage, they led by 1-8 to 0-1 and they missed at least two or three more in what was a sensational first half. Kerry did make a bit of a comeback in the second half but they were well beaten in the end. Jack O’Connor was whinging after the match about the referee not giving Kerry anything during the game but the facts are that they were blown away by a better side. Kerry are the best GAA people of all - until they lose. They don’t like it one little bit. It will be a cracking U-21 final. Galway always do well when they leave Connacht at any level of football and they have a great chance of winning another U-21 title this year.

Now that the National Football League has finished there is much debate about the structures of the football championship and the elephant in the room remains the provincial championships and until something is done with that system then we will never see real reform. I think we are a long way away from that situation yet, but it will happen in time. The reason the National Leagues have become so successful in recent years is because teams are playing against opposition of a fairly similar standard and the players on the weaker teams know that they have a chance of actually winning something. Then when it comes to the championship the weaker counties do not have the same interest and a lot of the games are very one-sided. The facts are that there are no more than four teams that have any realistic chance of winning the Sam Maguire. The next really competitive games that we will see in inter-county football are in August when the quarter-finals come about. There may be one or two games of interest in the Ulster championship but that will be about it. If anyone was under any illusions about the gap in standards, then the difference between the league finals in Division One and Two last weekend was the clearest indicator. The Dublin Kerry match was a tremendous battle and full of top quality football while the Galway Kildare game was very poor with caution the watchword. The Sam Maguire Cup will be fought out between Dublin and Kerry with Mayo, Tyrone and maybe Donegal in with an outside chance. Those are the facts unfortunately.

Irish sides can make European decider There is a real possibility that both Leinster and Munster will qualify for the final of the European Championships when the semi-finals are played at the weekend. Leinster look back to their best and while Clermont will not be easily beaten in France, they have the players to do it and I am expecting them to win. Munster have a 50/50 chance against Saracens and the transformation in their season has just been phenomenal. They have used the tragic and untimely death of Anthony Foley as a huge motivation factor and they have been sensational. Saracens are a great side but I think that if Munster can once again harness the spirit that they have shown in recent months, they can get to the final. What a day that would be for Irish Rugby of both sides were to get to the biggest day out in European club rugby. It is entirely possible.

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

SportsPeople Rossies set up ﬁnal date with Dublin Littlewoods National Camogie League Division 3 Semi-Final ROSCOMMON

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KERRY

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Roscommon qualified for the final of Division Three of the National League when they overcame Kerry in this hard fought encounter at Gort last Saturday. Roscommon battled well all through and had first half points from Lorainne Kenny, Niamh Watson and two frees from Shauna Fallon which saw them lead by 0-4 to 0-2 at half-time. It was an intense battle all through and further points from Elaine Daly (a free) and Shauna Fallon were sufficient for Roscommon to ensure that they qualified for the final against Dublin next Saturday. Best for Roscommon were Rachel Fitzmaurice, Elaine Daly, Caroline Connaughton, Laura Fleming and Shauna Fallon. Roscommon: C Connaughton; E McNally, E Lennon, M Tiernan; S Spillane, E Daly (0-1), R Dolan; R Fitzmaurice, L Fleming; N Watson (0-1), R Brennan, S Fallon (03); L Kenny (0-1), F Connell, C Whyte-Lennon. Subs: E Coyle for Tiernan, B Moylan for Connell.

League round-up Catríona Murray of Wexford in action against Bronagh McHugh of Roscommon during the Lidl Ladies Football National League Division 3 Semi-Final match between Wexford and Roscommon at Clane GAA Club in Clane, Co Kildare. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Five star Wexford end ladies’ league hopes Lidl Ladies National Football League Semi-Final WEXFORD

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ROSCOMMON

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It stands to reason that if you concede five goals then you are not going to win any important game and that was the case here as Roscommon’s defence was simply too porous in this semi-final played in fine weather conditions at Clane, Co. Kildare last Sunday. Wexford dominated this game from the start and only for some poor shooting the margin could have been even more. Wexford exploded from the blocks at the start of the game and they blitzed Roscommon. The scoring rate was low early on as Wexford dominated possession but had only two points to show

Aisling Murphy of Wexford in action against Gillian Dufficy of Roscommon during the Lidl Ladies Football National League Division 3 Semi-Final match between Wexford and Roscommon at Clane GAA Club in Clane, Co Kildare. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

until their first goal arrived in the 14th minute when a poor kick out led to Fiona Rowe converting. Then, a couple of minutes later, Roscommon conceded another soft goal and in the 19th minute Wexford were 2-3 to 0-0 ahead. But Roscommon improved before half-time and points from Rebecca Finan and Natalie McHugh (2) saw the situation improve and by half-time it was Wexford 2-4 Roscommon 0-4. Fiona Rowe added a third Wexford goal in the 39th minute. Then Clara Donnelly got the Slayneysider’s fourth after 50 minutes and five minutes later Niamh Butler grabbed Wex-

Roscommon manager Michael Finneran during the match between Wexford and Roscommon at Clane GAA Club in Clane, Co. Kildare. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

AFL Division 1 (O’Rourke Cup) St. Croan’s continued their unbeaten run with a deserved win against Roscommon Gaels at Lisnamult. Croan’s trailed by 0-7 to 1-3 at half-time but turned in a very good second half display to prevail by two points. Pádraig Pearses also continued their winning ways when they had four points to spare over a battling Elphin side. Leon Fehily and Emmett Egan were the goalscorers for Pearses. Best performance of the weekend came from Clann na nGael who were the very impressive ten-point winners against Strokestown. Jamie Fahy scored 1-4 with Donie Shine contributing four points. Kilmore scored an excellent win against Western Gaels, prevailing by a point. Kilmore goalkeeper Jason McEvoy saved a Derek Moran penalty and a Paul Garvey goal helped Kilmore to a narrow win.

AFL Division 2 (O’Gara Cup) Castlerea St. Kevin’s pipped Western Gaels by three points to keep up their winning run, Ger Heneghan scoring 1-3 for Castlerea. Performance of the day in this division came from Éire Óg, who had 15 points to spare against St. Dominic’s, scoring 4-15 in the process. Éire Óg led by 3-12 to 0-3 at half-time. Boyle edged Oran by two points in a very competitive encounter at Rockfield to stay top of the table. St. Faithleach’s opened their new stand at Ballyleague and celebrated with a hard fought onepoint win against Michael Glavey’s with a last minute point from Ciaráin Murtagh winning the day.

AFL Division 3 (Tansey Cup) St. Barry’s edged out Kilbride by a couple of points. Ballinameen and St. Aidan’s shared the spoils and Shannon Gaels proved too good for St. Michael’s.

This weekend…

ford’s fifth goal. Wexford will now play Tipperary in the Division Three final. For Roscommon, Natalie McHugh, Aisling McAuliffe, Jenny Higgins and Sinead Kenny played well but it was a disappointing performance and now all eyes will turn to the championship.

Wexford: M R Kelly; M Doyle, M Cullen, S Harding-Kenny; C Donnelly (1-2), R Murphy, G Hearne; B Breen (0-1), K Kearney; E O’Brien (0-1), C Murray (0-2), N Butler (1-0); F Rowe (2-0), A Murphy (1-2), S Cloake. Subs: R Bennett for Hearne, N Mernagh for Rowe, E Cahill for O’Brien, E Neville for Butler, B Doyle for Cullen.

Roscommon: C Manning; H Ennis, A McLoone, A McAulliffe (0-1); S Kenny, B McHugh, G Dufficy; L Fleming, J Higgins (0-2); A Kelly, M Freyne, J Cregg; R Finan (0-2), N McHugh (0-3), C Beirne. Subs: K Roddy for Manning. S Brady for Beirne, R Fitzmaurice (0-1) for Freyne, J Downey for Kelly. Referee: G Corrigan (Down)

With the championships just two weeks away, teams will be completing preparations and there will be much interest in this weekend’s games. In Division One, high-flying St. Croan’s host Western Gaels while St. Brigid’s will be at home to Strokestown on Saturday evening. Roscommon Gaels badly need a win and they host Tulsk on Sunday in Lisnamult. There is a very interesting derby at Johnstown when Clann na nGael take on Pádraig Pearses and there is another derby in Kilmore when the home side take on Elphin. In Division Two, St. Faithleach’s host St. Dominic’s at Ballyleague. Oran need a win and they will play Western Gaels at Rockfield. Éire Óg will take on Fuerty at home while there is another local derby at Ballinlough where Michael Glavey’s take on Castlerea St. Kevin’s. Boyle will host junior champions Creggs at Abbey Park. All Division Two games are on Sunday at 2 pm. In the Tansey Cup on Saturday, Elphin host St. Michael’s, Ballinameen are at home to St. Barry’s while Kilbride face Clann na nGael at Kilbride. Then on Sunday, St. Ronan’s take on Shannon Gaels and St. Aidan’s play Kilglass Gaels.

SportsPeople

Roscommon People Friday 21 April 2017

INSIDE: Ladies league report see page 47 GAA Results Hodson Bay Hotels AFL Division 1 (O’Rourke Cup) Kilmore 1-11 Western Gaels 0-12 Clann na nGael 2-12 Strokestown 0-8 St. Croan’s 2-6 Roscommon Gaels 0-10 Pádraig Pearses 2-9 Elphin 0-11 Mulryan Construction AFL Division 2 (O’Gara Cup) Boyle 2-9 Oran 1-10 Éire Óg 4-15 St. Dominic’s 1-10 St. Faithleach’s 1-13 Michael Glavey’s 1-12 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 3-6 Western-Gaels 1-9 Mulryan Construction AFL Division 3 (Tansey Cup) Ballinameen 0-13 St. Aidan’s 1-10 Shannon Gaels 2-12 St. Michael’s 0-7 Seamus Carthy Auctioneers AFL Division 4 Strokestown 4-15 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 1-10 St. Croan’s 4-11 Clann na nGael 1-10 Seamus Carthy Auctioneers AFL Division 5 Tulsk Lord Edwards 1-17 Ballinameen 0-10 Kilglass Gaels 4-7 St. Barry’s 2-10 Kilmore 1-13 St. Joseph’s 1-9 Michael Glavey’s 2-14 St. Michael’s 1-9

GAA Fixtures Saturday, April 22nd Hodson Bay Hotels AFL Division 1 (O’Rourke Cup) At Enfield: St. Croan’s v Western Gaels. 4 pm At Kiltoom: St. Brigid’s v Strokestown. 8.15 pm Mulryan Construction AFL Division 3 (Tansey Cup) At Orchard Park: Elphin v St. Michael’s. 4 pm At Davonna Park: Ballinameen v St. Barry’s. 6.30 pm At Kilbride: Kilbride v Clann na nGael. 8 pm Sunday, April 23rd Hodson Bay Hotels AFL Division 1 (O’Rourke Cup) (2 pm) At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Tulsk Lord Edwards At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Pádraig Pearses At Kilmore: Kilmore v Elphin Mulryan Construction AFL Division 2 (O’Gara Cup) (2 pm) At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v St. Dominic’s At Rockfield: Oran v Western Gaels At James Timothy Park: Éire Óg v Fuerty At Ballinlough: Michael Glavey’s v Castlerea St. Kevin’s At Abbey Park: Boyle v Creggs Mulryan Construction AFL Division 3 (Tansey Cup) (2 pm) At Kilronan Park: St. Ronan’s v Shannon Gaels At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v Kilglass Gaels

Underage update Shane Curley will be hoping to help Roscommon to Christy Ring success over Down this Saturday. Pic: Andrew Fox

Hurlers return to Down for Christy Ring opener Christy Ring Cup Round One

Down v Roscommon in Ballycran on Saturday at 1 pm  SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager, Johnny Kelly, is hoping for an improved performance in front of goal in this Saturday’s Christy Ring opener against Down. Pic: Andrew Fox

Roscommon hurlers return to Ballycran on Saturday to meet Down in the Christy Ring Cup and the hope will be that Roscommon’s improvement in recent games can continue. Roscommon played Down at the same venue in the league earlier this year and following a very good display Down eventually prevailed by five points but Roscommon felt that they could have won that game. Roscommon manager Johnny Kelly said on Tuesday that if the team can improve their scoring rate, they can win this championship encounter. “We will be operating from much the same panel as we had in the league but Noel Fallon is a welcome addition to the panel in the last few weeks. Injuries are still a problem and Jason Kilkenny is almost certain to be out for Saturday as he sustained an injury at the weekend. “We played well against Down when we met in the league and in general our performances have been improving and we need to keep that going on Saturday. In fact, we controlled large parts of all our games in the league except for the game

against Wicklow but we have been missing too many chances and that has been a recurring theme for us. “We have to show more composure in front of goal and if we do that we have a great chance of winning this game. We were desperately unlucky to lose against Mayo and if we play to our potential and have a bit of luck on the day, we can go there and win,” he concluded. Roscommon were very unlucky not to have won against Mayo in the league relegation play-off, a late goal for the Mayo men being decisive. Roscommon will be depending on the likes of captain Peter Kellehan, Shane Curley, Pat Nolan, Eamon Flanagan, Johnny Coyne and Cathal Kenny to lead the charge in what will be a difficult game. Down will be expecting to win at home but they have not been shooting the lights out this year, losing recently to Armagh in the Ulster championship. But Roscommon are certainly not without hope in this match and if they can take their scoring chances and have a change of luck, which they are due, they could cause a shock. However, it’s hard not to go for a home win. Prediction: Down.

Thursday, April 20th Roscommon People U-12 Spring League Division 6 At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Western Gaels-Frenchpark. 7 pm Integrated Risk Solutions U-14 Football League Division 1 At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v St. Michael’s. 7 pm Oakwood Nursing Home U-14 Football League Division 2 At St. Dominic’s: St. Dominic’s v Kilmore/Shannon Gaels. 7 pm At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v Strokestown. 7 pm Rogue & Co. Cafe U-14 Football League Division 3 At Nash Park: Western Gaels-Frenchpark v Oran. 7 pm At Tulsk: Tulsk Lord Edwards v St. Faithleach’s. 7 pm At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v St. Aidan’s. 7 pm Casey’s Auto Centre U-14 Football League Division 4 At Enfield: St. Croan’s v St. Brigid’s. 7 pm Friday, April 21st O’Rourke Fireplaces & Stoves MFL Division 1 At Strokestown: Strokestown v Castlerea St. Kevin’s Paul Earley Consulting MFL Division 3 At St. Dominic’s: St. Dominic’s v Boyle. 7 pm King & Moffatt Electrical MFL Division 4 (7 pm) At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v Éire Óg At Ardcarne Park: St. Michael’s-St. Ronan’s v St. Croan’s Cryan’s Hotel U-16 Football League Division 3 At Nash Park: Western Gaels-Frenchpark v St. Ciaran’s. 7 pm Saturday, April 22nd Donnellan & Co. U-12 Spring League Division 1 (12 pm) At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v St. Dominic’s At Kiltoom: St. Brigid’s v Clann na nGael At Abbey Park: Boyle v Roscommon Gaels Hannon’s Hotel U-12 Spring League Division 2 (12 pm) At Mulhern Park: St. Ciaran’s v Kilbride At Orchard Park: Elphin-Ballinameen v Western Gaels-Frenchpark Axe Forestry U-12 Spring League Division 3 (12 pm) At Strokestown: Strokestown v St. Michael’s At Rockfield: Oran v St. Aidan’s At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v Tulsk Lord Edwards McNeills Foodstore U-12 Spring League Division 4 (12 pm) At James Timothy Park: Éire Óg v St. Barry’s At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v St Croan’s Halligan Insurances U-12 Spring League Division 5 (12 pm) At Abbey Park: Boyle v Clann na nGael At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v St. Brigid’s At Kilglass: Kilglass Gaels v Kilmore Roscommon People U-12 Spring League Division 6 (12 pm) At Ardcarne Park: St. Michael’s v Kilbride Sunday, April 23rd iQ Financial MFL Division 2 At Orchard Park: Elphin-Ballinameen v Tulsk Lord Edwards. 11.30 am McNeill’s Foodstore U-12 Spring League Division 4 At St. Dominic’s: St. Dominic’s v Castlerea St. Kevin’s. 12 pm Noel Carr Accountants U-16 FL Division 2 At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v Oran. 12 pm Cryan’s Hotel U-16 FL Division 3 (12 pm) At Mulhern Park: St. Ciaran’s v St. Aidan’s At Kilbride: Kilbride v Kilmore/Shannon Gaels At Nash Park: Western Gaels-Frenchpark v Kilglass Gaels/St. Barry’s Connacht Ice Baths U-16 Football League Division 4 At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Michael Glavey’s. 12 pm Integrated Risk Solutions U-14 FL Division 1 At Abbey Park: Boyle v Roscommon Gaels. 11.30 am