2018 02 09 by Roscommon People

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SOCIAL PEOPLE

09 February 2018

See page 34

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 565

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• Paddy Kilduff resigns from Fianna Fáil • ‘HQ has no respect for grassroots’

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Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

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Minister Naughten to launch Digital Skills 2018

People WATCHING Quigleys raise €4,830 for Simon Community In last week’s Roscommon People, we incorrectly stated that Maria and Catherine Quigley had raised €4,380 in aid of the Galway Simon Community, when in fact the girls had raised an amazing

€4,830 for the homeless charity following their 24-hour sleep out in December. We are happy to correct this and congratulate the Quigleys once again on their fundraising efforts.

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Roscommon LEADER Partnership will host a presentation of certificates and the launch of the 2018 Digital Skills Project on Friday, February 23rd at 7.30 pm in the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon town. Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment Denis Naughten will present certificates and launch this year’s project on the night. Those wishing to register for this year’s course can do so on the evening. The evening will also play host to the project stakeholders such as IFA, Teagasc, Bank of Ireland, ICOS, ICSA and ICA but to name a few. These stakeholders will give their insights into the role technology has played and will play in our everyday lives from banking to agriculture. For those in attendance on the night there will be prizes to be won such as a 1-year subscription Herdwatch, animal doses and drenches, digital skills body warmers and more.

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The Tully family must have a reinforced mantelpiece, what with all the titles and awards the Tully kids have brought home over the years. Last weekend, Fiona (St. Coman’s Club) was at it again when she claimed the 40x20 3rd Level Colleges title in Kingscourt, Co. Cavan. Her presence was also required in Croke Park on Saturday night where she was awarded the Young Female Handballer of the Year award for 2017.

Tulsk blogger set for “magical” Disney cruise Roscommon blogger, Shonagh Beirne, has been given a once in a lifetime opportunity to travel the Caribbean with Disney Cruiseline, bringing her followers an inside eye to life on board the high seas. Tulsk native Shonagh is travelling to Orlando, Florida to experience the ultimate Disney fan’s dream. She is currently on board the renowned Disney Fantasy ship along with over 2,500 other guests as they set sail on the magical adventure. Through her blog she will be showcasing all the amazing facilities, entertainment, food and experiences on board the ship, while also documenting the exotic ports of call, excursions and golden beaches of destinations such as Mexico, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, St. Maarten and Disney’s own private Island of Castaway Cay. So, for an on-board in-

I recently received a letter telling me that I had won a prize in the Spanish Lottery. I was delighted but a little dubious. I was in Spain about two years ago on holidays and I cannot recall buying a lottery ticket. I have been asked to pay a small fee to facilitate the transfer of my winnings to me. I am afraid that I will miss out on a large lottery win but I am also sceptical. Please advise me. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but this is almost certainly a scam. These are common scams and lottery scams generally work by asking you to pay some sort of fee in order to claim your winnings from a lottery you never entered or purchased a ticket for. Such contact with you may be made by mail, telephone, email, text message or social media. The scammers will usually tell you that the fee you are being asked to pay is required to cover insurance costs, government taxes, bank fees or courier charges. Worrying, the scammers will often make repeated contact with you seeking to continually collect these fees and stalling the payment of your winnings. Lottery scams may use the names of legitimate overseas lotteries, such as the Spanish lottery in your case, so that if you do some superficial research, the scam will seem real. You may also be asked to provide personal details to prove that you are the correct winner and to give your bank account details so the prize can be sent to you. Scammers use these details to try to misuse your identity and steal any money you have in your bank account. I would respectfully suggest that you bin the letter and ignore any request for payment of money. This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 Tulsk blogger Shonagh Beirne has set sail with the Disney Cruiseline in the Caribbean.

sight into life at sea with Disney Cruiseline follow Shonagh’s journey through her Instagram

account @sashonation or through her blog at www. sashonation.wordpress. com. Compiled by PAUL HEALY

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Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

NewsPeople ‘What tragedy will it take to shame this Government?’

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

 DAN DOONER

Fianna Fáil Councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice has called on the Government to put in place a permanent ambulance team in Loughglynn in west Roscommon. At present, the base, which was opened in January 2016 has no permanent ambulance or staff. Cllr. Fitzmaurice said: “The base is loaned an ambulance from Roscommon town when one is free. Many politicians, including Minister Naughten, were very vocal while in opposition regarding the lack of ambulances and staff at the base but they seem to have gone very quiet on this issue”. Cllr. Fitzmaurice said that the consequences of denying the people of west Roscommon a proper ambulance service were highlighted once again this week when a seriously ill child near Loughglynn could not get assistance from an ambulance in Co. Roscommon and was left waiting for one hour for an ambulance to come from Sligo town. “It is terrible to think that a person in a life or death situation is told over the phone that no medical help would be available for one hour. When the Fine Gael Government took away our A&E in Roscommon town, we were promised extra ambulances to make up for the loss. As we can see, this is yet another broken promise regarding health services in this county. “What tragedy will it take to shame this Government into giving us a proper ambulance service in west Roscommon?” he asked.

Saturday This went beyond analysis – this, quite simply, was another of those great examples of how wonderful sport can be. It was one of those priceless, peerless sporting moments, guaranteed to live in our memories all our lives. When Johnny Sexton attempted that audacious kick, time really did seem to stop. “This French wall will not crumble” the TV3 commentator had said as Ireland patiently/desperately went through numerous phases. Thus, faced with a seemingly impregnable wall, Sexton tried to recover Ireland’s stolen victory by going over the French wall. More or less in control of a fairly tedious match, we led 12-6 when we were hit by a sucker punch, the non-doubting Teddy Thomas dancing past several flatfooted Irishmen for the game’s only try. Now trailing 13-12, Ireland looked to have thrown victory away. We sought to rebuild from the rubble, but the French half looked a long distance away. With time up and Ireland slowly gaining ground, we were one handling error away from a sickening defeat. I have rewatched Ireland’s subsequent 41-phase play four times since the game ended; I still fear that something will go wrong! It is a riveting passage of play. Finally, Conor Murray’s pass to Sexton, and time stops. Ball leaves boot. You’d have put your house on a hard luck story revealing itself now. Sexton’s kick rises over that French wall which had refused to crumble. The ball spins into the disdainful rain. The players lift their heads, the Irish in hope, the French in fear. Unbelievably, it’s looking like Sexton had the accuracy, the distance, the courage. The camera closes in on the Irish out-half; his head tilts, as though willing the ball to its destination, then he starts a slightly ungainly run of joy, reminiscent of Mick McCarthy’s celebration on the sideline when Robbie Keane scored a late goal against Germany in the 2002 World Cup. It was indeed a great sporting moment. The TV3 team, fresh from winning the Six Nations rights from RTE, were in dreamland. I imagine that Michael Corcoran on RTE Radio probably got a bit excited too, but I find it hard to listen to him, because he’s just too partisan! All day on the TV3 panel, Ronan O’Gara confirmed his status as a superb analyst; a pleasure to listen to. A fairly mundane match had somehow muscled its way into the sporting hall of fame.

Saturday/Sunday

Fianna Fáil Councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

The Premier League moves along, sometimes dull, sometimes dramatic, always immersed in grotesque levels of money, refereeing controversies and laughable exhibitions of egotism by showboating managers. When Liverpool went 2-1 up against Spurs in the 91st minute, Jurgen Klopp almost matched Usain Bolt as he sprinted along the touchline, celebrating in his usual ‘Look at me, it’s all about me’ fashion. Can you imagine Kevin McStay or Jim Gavin behaving in such a manner? Er, no. Still, it keeps us entertained, I suppose!

Aoife and Roisín Fitzmaurice pictured supporting Michael Glavey’s in the All-Ireland IFC Club Final in Croke Park. Picture: Andrew Fox

Meanwhile, back in The Championship, my club Leeds are in some disarray again. The soccer world is patiently waiting for the return of the great Leeds United to football’s top flight, but it looks like we’ll have to wait at least one more season. Briefly top of the league in September, Leeds have failed yet again to maintain any form of consistency. Now down to 10th, it looks as if fans will at least be spared the anguish of the club flirting with promotion; it is, after all, the hope that kills you. The Leeds board responded to a run of poor results in the usual manner, that is by sacking the manager. ‘You’re fired!’ they told Thomas Christiansen at the weekend, and now Leeds are looking for their 7th manager since 2014 and their 10th since 2012. When we do eventually get back to the Premier League, I’d hope all previous managers will be invited back for the celebrations. It might be awkward – and crowded.

Sunday Radio coverage of GAA is great, but sometimes I prefer to dip in and out, letting the game develop a little before I return for an update. This afternoon, I’m driving to Rooskey, and it’s time to check in on the match. We’re nearing Ballyleague, and Roscommon are in a spot of trouble. Shannonside are reporting from the various grounds; Longford are impress-

ing against Derry, Leitrim are leaking scores to Laois, and it’s shaping up to be a fruitless trip to Tipp for Roscommon. It’s turning into a dull enough GAA afternoon; I need a break from the unfolding tedium in Tipp. I decide to switch stations for some music. A great blast from the past – Johnny Cougar (‘Hurts so good’) – guides us through Cloontuskert. By Scramogue, curiosity gets the better of me and I switch back to Shannonside. Roscommon are five or six points behind. Back to music. Passing the beautiful Kilglass Lakes, I give in to temptation and switch the dial again. Leitrim have un-Laoised carnage on their opponents and scored three goals in six minutes, but it’s not quite enough to avert defeat. No news just now from Thurles, so it’s back to music and a quick visit to Newstalk. I’m done for the day. But a half mile from Rooskey village, I relent. Back to Thurles for the grim news. But there’s drama to report. Diarmuid and Willie are on fire. Murtagh has goaled, and the Rossies are raining points too. Willie is in full flow, and suddenly a dull GAA afternoon has sparked into life. Roscommon score 1-5 without reply in the time it takes to get from the Kilglass Gaels GAA pitch to the Dromod Road. Now that’s good going!

Later on Sunday Drama on tonight’s Dancing with the Stars:

There were gasps when Amanda Byram and Nicky Byrne staggered on to the stage, spontaneously cracking bawdy jokes while making faces at the audience. Meanwhile, a mass brawl broke out between the contestants after simmering tensions erupted. Chaos then as Marty Morrissey launched a Cantona-like kung fu kick at the judges after they scored him poorly. If only.

Monday I always thought Gerry Kelly, in the news this week after he was filmed removing a clamp from his car, was a tough old nut. The Sinn Fein man, a former IRA activist who became a fairly major figure in the peace process, has always retained his hard man image, perhaps finding the transition from paramilitarism to parliament understandably difficult. You could say that, for Gerry, the wheels of democracy have turned slowly. Still, Gerry got elected by his people and attained a grip on power. He’s been in the driving seat during talks aimed at restoring power-sharing. Gerry will survive this controversy, but it’s a test for the party’s new leader, Mary Lou. She can’t afford to park this issue and just hope it will go away. Surely Mary Lou has to clamp down on this type of behaviour?

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

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Pictured at the Fianna Fáil selection convention which was held in the Abbey Hotel were Deputy Eugene Murphy, Rían and Nadine Murphy. Picture: Andrew Fox

The French connection – twenty years on! and Roscommon county town were twinned. The Chartrettes Twinning committee is welcoming people from Roscommon to Chartrettes on June 22nd-24th, 2018, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the twinning during their Music Festival. It is hoped that some Irish musicians and dancers will travel, as has been customary over the years.

ROSCOMMON TOWN TWINNING MEETING Roscommon and Chartrettes Town Twinning Committees are planning a 20th Anniversary twinning celebration in June this year. It’s 20 years since the French town

The committee is encouraging people to embrace the opportunity to take part in this cultural exchange. If you are interested in getting involved in the Roscommon Twinning Committee and in travelling to Chartrettes this June, then come along to a Roscommon Town Twinning meeting on Monday, 12th of February at 7 pm in Gleeson’s.

Did you know that 27 people die of heart attacks in Ireland every day? Heartfelt Cardio Screening is coming to your area soon, with the revolutionary BPro pulse wave analysis device, providing affordable and accurate heart and artery screenings. The BPro and A-Pulse Casp has been developed by Healthstats in Singapore and can calculate a person’s central aortic systolic pressure (CASP) (blood pressure closest to the heart) accurately and non-invasively. The A-Pulse has been validated in clinical trials to have an accuracy of 99.17%, as compared to the angiogram. The BPro Cardio Pulse-Wave screening measures the aortic pressure as well as the flexibility of your arteries. Screenings are carried out by a Healthstats certified technician and a full printout of the results are given on the day which can be brought back to your own GP or cardiologist if necessary. The procedure is non-invasive and completely pain-free. The cost of an individual BPro test is €50 per adult with a 10% discount (€90) for a couple. There is also a 20% discount for groups of 12 or more people e.g. Sports Clubs, Business Screening etc. Heartfelt Cardio Screening will bring the BPro to the

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NewsPeople

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MOVING Strokestown Medical Practice Dr. Hugh O’Donnell wishes to advise that he will move to the

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NEWS…at a glance Comhaltas Music Session – and congrats to Patsy! Roscommon Town branch of Comhaltas will hold its next traditional session in Doorly’s Corner House Pub on this Sunday evening from 6 pm to about 8.30 pm. All good listeners welcome. The branch extends it congratulations to our friend and member, the great Patsy Hanly, who received the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the renowned TG4 Gradam Cheoil Awards, broadcast live from the Waterfront Auditorium in Belfast on Sunday night last. As usual, Patsy played with style and grace and his lovely, bilingual acceptance speech showed what a genuinely humble person he is and why he is generally accepted as being the most popular flute player in Ireland today. ‘Nár laga Dia thú Patsy Hanly’.

Irish Water update on local water supplies The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says two large water supplies in Co. Roscommon are being removed from their Remedial Action List (RAL). The North East Roscommon and Ballinlough water supplies have been removed from the EPA’s ‘to do’ list while works are progressing on the Grangemore and North Roscommon water supplies to secure their removal. The Ballinlough water supply, which serves approximately 3,500 customers, has been removed from the RAL following extensive investment and upgrading by Irish Water working in partnership with Roscommon and Mayo County Council. A boil water notice was lifted on the North East Regional scheme in September 2016 after being in place for two and a half years following the detection of cryptosporidium in the water supply. To address this, Irish Water installed a temporary water treatment plant consisting of coagulation, containerised filtration and a UV disinfection system at Lisheen Lake. Construction works on the long-term solution for North East Roscommon are now

Sinead O’Grady (senior stylist) and Nessa Sherringham (proprietor of The Hair Lounge, Knockcroghery) pictured receiving their certificates of achievement from Aileen Maher (Joico Instructor). Nessa and Sinead have qualified to become official Joico care consultants.

complete and involved the construction of a new water treatment plant and intake works which is abstracting and treating water from a new source at Grange Lough.

An urgent call to all poets! The 20th annual Strokestown Poetry Festival will be held later this year (May 3rd-7th). If you are a Roscommon resident, or attend a writing group in Co. Roscommon, then you may like to enter the Roscommon Poet’s Prize. You can enter an unpublished poem of up to 70 lines on any subject. The winner receives a prize of €150 and will be invited to read their work at the Poetry Festival. A special competition to mark Strokestown Poetry Festival’s 20th anniversary is also running now, and is open to writers from anywhere in the world. The task is to go online to look at the 20 images displayed and write up to 20 lines of verse in response. There will be 20 winners, who will get to see their poems displayed alongside the

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough & Galway www.bccsolicitors.ie

Tel: 090 647 8433

* MOTOR ACCIDENTS See ur See oour Column in column on Business e2

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

Ballaghaderreen Tennis Club Quiz Night Ballaghaderreen Tennis Club presents a Quiz Night in Durkin’s Bar & Restaurant, Ballaghaderreen on Friday, 9th of February at 9 pm. Table of four, €40. Prizes, glory, fun!

Historical Society meeting and talk A meeting of the Co. Roscommon Historical & Archaeological Society will take place on Tuesday, 13th of February at 8 pm in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown. At 8.30 pm an illustrated lecture will take place on the theme ‘Digitising Roscommon’s Crucifixion Plaques.’ This will be given by Orla Power, a graduate of UCC. Orla studied the application of photogrammetry in recording cadaver-type memorial stones of the 15th to 18th centuries in Ireland. A co-founder of Digital Heritage Age, her most recent endeavours include the launch of the Sheela-na Gig 3D heritage project, which is part-funded by the Heritage Council of Ireland. All are welcome to this lecture.

Kilmovee 10k Road Race in aid of Hospice

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

photographs during the festival, the overall winner receiving €100 and the runners-up each receiving €20. Please note however that closing date for entries is this Friday, February 9th. Contact office@strokestownpoetry.org for more.

Claire Fleming and Rebecca Mulligan pictured supporting Michael Glavey’s in the All-Ireland IFC Club Final in Croke Park. Picture: Andrew Fox

The 9th Annual Kilmovee 10km takes place on Holy Saturday 31st of March from Kilmovee GAA centre (near Knock Airport), commencing at 1 pm. Proceeds to Kilmovee Shamrocks GAA and Mayo/Roscommon Hospice palliative care service. Cash prizes for all categories. Refreshments available after race in the community centre. Sponsorship cards available by contacting 094-9388666; email kilmovee10k@gmail. com.

To send news to your local newspaper…email news@roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

NewsPeople Minister for Communications, Climate Action & Environment

Building Stronger Business A breakfast briefing on helping business to compete, innovate & trade hosted by Minister Denis Naughten Castlerea Thursday 15th February 8.15-9.30am

Roscommon Town Wednesday 28th February 8.15-9.30am

Ballinasloe

Rose of Newcastle Laoise O’Shaughnessy pictured speaking to students at Convent of Mercy Secondary School Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Wednesday 7th March 8.15-9.30am To book a place at one of the briefings e-mail your chosen date as well as business & contact details to: buildingstrongerbusiness@gmail.com

CRH to host Landowners’ Appreciation Night The County Roscommon Hunt will host a ‘Landowners’ Appreciation Night’ on Saturday, February 17th in The Bridge House, Athleague.A buffet meal will be served at 8.30 pm and music on the night will be provided by Billy Garvin. More details in our next issue.

Marie Corcoran Memorial Trust Fund

Ellen Cafferky, Amy Fitzmaurice, Roisín Kilcline, Rose of Newcastle Laoise O’Shaughnessy, Orla Connolly, Holly Harkins and Niamh Fitzgerald pictured in Convent of Mercy Secondary School Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Laoise for Roses’ Chernobyl trip  DAN DOONER

Ballintubber native and Newcastle/Gateshead Rose Laoise O’Shaughnessy will be part of the group which is due to travel to Belarus for four days on Valentine’s Day (February 14th) in order to visit Vesnova Orphanage with Adi Roche’s Chernobyl Children’s International. Laoise told Roscommon People she was looking forward to the trip. “I’m really looking forward to the trip. I jumped at the chance when it came up. I’ve been very busy fundraising for Chernobyl Children’s International over the last few weeks. They do a lot of fantastic work such as pediatric and cardiac surgeries”. Laoise praised the work of CCI and in particular Adi Roche. “I believe she is a remarkable woman and she will be on the trip with us so I’m looking forward to meeting her. “It’s also an opportunity to see some of the Roses who live further away and who I haven’t been on trips with before. It will be a lovely experience we can all enjoy together”. As for her overall Rose adven-

ture so far, Laoise said she was having one of the best years of her life. “It’s been a great year and one of the most tremendous years of my life and I’ll never forget it. “I’ve done lots of things and (taken part in) lots of activities and I’ll be very sad to give back my sash!” Last week, the Newcastle/ Gateshead Rose was back in her old school, Convent of Mercy Roscommon, to give a presentation on the Chernobyl disaster to young students.

“It was really lovely of Convent of Mercy to invite me back to do the presentation. It was great being back there”. She also had high praise for the people of Ballintubber for their generosity during her Chernobyl Children’s International fundraising efforts. “It’s not until you find yourself in this position that you realise how good people can be. I want to say a huge thank you to the people of Ballintubber and everyone else who has supported me,” she said.

Ballinasloe Singers Circle Ballinasloe Singers Circle’s latest session takes place this Thursday in the Dunlo Tavern at 9.30 pm. All singers, storytellers and listeners welcome. Free admission. Meanwhile, Ballinasloe Comhaltas are hosting a Junior Music Session and Celebration in Gullane’s Hotel this Sunday at 7 pm. All welcome.

‘Thank you’ from SVDP! St. Vincent de Paul St. Coman’s Conference, Roscommon Town wish to say a big thank you to all who responded to their Christmas appeal. All cash donations were greatly appreciated. Thanks also to the people who contributed food and cash in local shops and supermarkets, and for donations of toys, solid fuel and baby clothes. Thanks to all at Roscommon University Hospital, local businesses, banks, schools and Citizen’s Information who gave so generously. You can contact your local St. Vincent de Paul shop on 086-0741352

The committee of the Marie Corcoran Memorial Trust Fund would like to thank everyone who supported our event in Ned’s Bar in Knockcroghery on Saturday, 9th of December which was in aid of Roscommon Palliative Care Services. This function was a huge success. The sum raised on the night was €3,203.

Curraghboy National School

Curraghboy N.S. are holding their

ENROLMENT NIGHT on Tuesday, 13th February from 6pm – 7pm Everyone Welcome!

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

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Ballagh N.S.

Kilrooskey Co. Roscommon

Enrolment Evening Wednesday, 21st February 2018 From 6 – 7pm If you are considering enrolling your child in Ballagh National School for September 2018 or 2019, we invite you to come along with your child, to view the school and its facilities and meet the teachers. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have. If this date does not suit, please contact the Principal, Mrs. Ruth O’Connor to make alternative arrangements.

Telephone: 090 66 25884 Email: ballaghns1.ias@eircom.net

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Ballagh NS pupils in their fantastic Astro Turf pitch. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Advertorial –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Broad and holistic education in a caring environment Ballagh NS Open Evening Ballagh National School, Ballagh, Kilrooskey, is a mixed primary school located just 8km from Roscommon town. Our homely school community offers students a broad and holistic education that is firmly rooted in Christian values in a caring and nurturing environment. This sense of community is a central feature of life in Ballagh National School. We know each one of our students personally, thus ensuring that each child reaches their maximum potential. As a learning community we aim to prepare students for life beyond primary school. We have high expectations for all our students in all areas of school life. We pride ourselves on our interest in the STEM subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. We are especially proud of our fantastic scientific success and we were recently awarded Best Primary School Project at the CBS Roscommon Scifest Science Fair. The school and the Senior Class Teacher Ms. Audrey Nolan entered two projects. Our scientists ranged in age from Third Class up to Sixth

Ballagh NS pupils showcase their Science projects.

Class. Our winning project was entitled ‘Can video games trigger an adrenaline response?’. The Scifest Programme and this award has wonderful benefits for the pupils of our school as it enables students to grow in confidence and develop their communication skills by exhibiting their work in a small, local, student-friendly environment. Scifest provided our students with an opportunity to engage in activities that link science, maths, engineering and technology to their everyday lives and to society. We find ourselves in the unique position of becoming one of only 293 schools nationally to have achieved Digital School of Distinction status. On a daily basis, technology is integrated into teaching and cooperative group work sessions. Our students are safe and happy. They are encouraged to develop their own individual talents – art, music, song,

drama and dance all of which are an integral part of cultural life in Ballagh. Students can participate and compete in a broad range of sports and physical activities and we are delighted with our new facility – our state-of-the-art Astro Turf pitch. We have a very active and supportive Parent Association who do great work and are on hand to help out at all school functions. If you are considering enrolling your child in Ballagh National School for September 2018 or 2019, we invite you to come along with your child, to view the school and meet the teachers. We look forward to welcoming you to our Open Evening on Wednesday, 21st of February 2018 from 6-7 pm. If you have any queries please feel free to call Ruth O’Connor on 090-6625884. Email: ballaghns1.ias@eircom.net (website: www.ballaghns.ie).

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Pictured at the Fianna Fáil selection convention which was held in the Abbey Hotel were Mary Pettit, Tom Leech, Mary Clifford and Deputy Dara Calleary. Picture: Andrew Fox

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First Easter Parade meeting of 2018 Roscommon Easter Parade Committee will hold its first meeting of 2018 on Tuesday, 13th of February in Doorly’s Corner House at 8.30 pm. Easter falls at the beginning of April this year and organisers are eager to get plans underway. The committee is also looking to expand its ranks, and is issuing an open invitation to anyone

wishing to get involved to come along. There are lots of opportunities, big and small, and it’s a great platform for anyone interested in event management to get some fantastic experience. Sponsorship

While the parade always receives excellent support from the local business community, organisers

are interested in talking to anyone who might consider coming on board as main sponsor this year. Full details on sponsorship options available from committee members, email roscommoneasterparade@gmail.com or come along to the first meeting of 2018 on Tuesday, 13th of February in Doorly’s Corner House. All welcome.

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Brendan Grace tickets competition winners

Adrianna Kelly, Aoibhínn Kelly and Fiona Crawley pictured supporting Michael Glavey’s in the All-Ireland IFC Club Final in Croke Park. Picture: Andrew Fox

Recently the Roscommon People ran a competition in which the prize was tickets to see the legendary comedian Brendan Grace live. Congratulations to the competition winners. They were: Mary Casey, Ballinalsoe and Mary Gately, Castlecoote.

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ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551

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Foróige’s Got Talent! County Roscommon Foróige held its first hugely successful Foróige’s Got Talent event recently. Ten acts from six different clubs

(Ballygar, Ballaghaderreen, Cloonfad, Four Roads, Granlahan and Roscommon Town) performed in the Quad Youth Centre, Roscommon. A huge number of club members and leaders turned out to support their respective clubs. The three judges, Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, Gerry Jago and Bianca D’Arajou were extremely impressed with the very high standard of all the acts. The two winning acts from Ballygar and Granlahan will go on to represent Roscommon at the Foroige’s Got Talent national competition in April.

Left: Chloe Belle Crehan, Ballygar Foroige Club, who will perform at the Foroige’s Got Talent Final.

‘Key improvements’ on ambulance service – Naughten Minister Denis Naughten this week said that he has secured key improvements to both ambulance and air ambulance services as part of the Government’s plan to devise a new trauma system. Minister Naughten said that following his intervention, the Government approved Trauma Steering Group’s report ‘A Trauma System for Ireland’ will now ensure commitments on ambulance and air ambulance resources as well as changes to ambulance bypass protocols which will see less severe injuries treated in local injury units. Minister Naughten, left, said he had secured a commitment in the Programme for Government for increased ambulance resources, and the development of protocols to ensure patients are treated at the right place, all of which will now be core to supporting the implementation of the trauma policy. “As a result of my intervention on this issue the Government’s trauma policy now commits to expanding and developing air ambulance services with funding earmarked in 2018 to support the establishment of a second air ambulance service in the south of the country, with the aim of getting the service in the air this year,” explained Minister Naughten. “Once this is operational it will ensure the air ambulance service based in Athlone is available to concentrate on this part of the country and transporting patients to the appropriate centres. “I have also secured a commitment that priority in devising a new system for trauma care will be given to improving services for those who are more than 60 minutes travel by road from a trauma unit, which includes the current ambulance blackspot in West Roscommon. “In tandem with this, the funding has been secured from the Minister for Finance to ensure the necessary resources are available for the ambulance service to implement this plan along with the trauma policy itself which will result in more ambulances being made available locally”. Outlining the changes that are planned to take place in relation to ambulance bypass protocols, Minister Naughten explained: “The development of ambulance bypass protocols is important not just in terms of implementing a trauma policy but also to ensure that people are treated in the most appropriate facility and that only those who need the services of an accident and emergency department are taken there”.

Maria Harris, RWN, Susan Feeley, Sara Elifani, With Compliments, Nora Fahy, RWN, Angela Lennon, Marie O’Neill, Cousins Care, Asmeret Teklai, Red Sea Bistro Café. Picture: Andrew Fox

RWN supporting Roscommon Women in Business Roscommon Women’s Network (RWN) has secured funding following a social media public vote through Ulster Bank’s Skills & Opportunities fund to run a programme titled ‘Roscommon Women in Enterprise’ which aims to support women as they set up their own business. The project will target 24 women in Co. Roscommon and will be led by Roscommon Women’s Network. RWN will be supported by a steering committee represented by Roscommon Leader Partnership, Local Enterprise Office Roscommon and GRETB to ensure that the women receive the most effective support and benefit from all resources available to them. Tara Farrell, Chairperson of Roscommon Women’s Network thanked Ulster Bank for establishing the Skills & Opportunities programme in the first instance as it provides community and voluntary organisations like RWN with a means to support women who might not otherwise have had the opportunity. “We’re delighted to have been successful and this is another positive step on the RWN journey,” said Tara. Nora Fahy, RWN Project Co-ordinator, thanked everyone who voted for the project in the Ulster Bank public vote which will enable RWN to focus and target resources into supporting women to develop their business idea, financial skills and capabilities to start up their own business.

Marie Farrell, Branch Manager, Ulster Bank Roscommon (second from right) pictured presenting a cheque to Tara Farrell, RWN Chairperson, Maria Harris and Nora Fahy, RWN.

The branch manager of Ulster Bank Roscommon, Marie Farrell, congratulated RWN and wished all the participants on the project success in their new business ventures. Maria Harris, RWN Development Worker, who is delivering the project, explained: “The women who linked with me on this project since last September have progressed greatly in the short period especially in terms of growing in confidence and self-belief. “There are some amazing business ideas and I see a number of businesses being created in the county in the coming months”.

Women who are starting up businesses include psychotherapists, a cleaning business, wedding confectionary, a hair salon and a restaurant. Susan Feely, a project participant who is setting up business as a psychotherapist, counsellor and couples counseller, joined last September and is already taking on clients. She said: “This project has been a great source of information and support for me. The workshops are particularly beneficial”. The project is open to new recruits. Call Maria on 087-4073321 or 094-9621690.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

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A country school with a great record!

Cloonfour National School

OPEN EVENING Tuesday 13th February: 6-8 pm

Cloonfour NS Open Evening Cloonfour National School Open Evening will take place on Tuesday, 13th of February from 6-8 pm. This quaint two-teacher school is located between Tarmonbarry and Rooskey. The school, small though it may be, has large achievements. The girls’ basketball team are Division One finalists in the Longford Primary Schools Basketball League (the only two-teacher school ever to reach the finals!). The school are also current champions in the local two-teacher GAA annual tournament. The school prides itself on offering a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as Science Club, Cooking Club, Basketball, Football and Choir, to mention a few. Cloonfour N.S. are currently working towards their second Green Schools flag and their first Active Schools Flag. The school participates in the Bord Gáis Student Drama Awards, Write a Book competition and Food Dudes (healthy eating programme). All pupils participate in swimming lessons and speech and drama classes. The facilities in the school are excellent, offering pupils a spacious indoor P.E. hall, an outside basketball court and a large football pitch. Prospective pupils can benefit from a low pupil:teacher ratio and a range of fun learning initiatives, such as Aistear and Hot Chocolate Book Club. Cloonfour N.S. also has a very active Parents Association, who greatly support the

Cloonfour N.S. is a 2 teacher school located half way between Tarmonbarry and Rooskey.

school through their fundraising events to provide additional resources for the pupils. Cloonfour N.S. also offers supervised playtime for all infants from 2-3 pm. The school prides itself in offering a wide range of learning initiatives to make learning fun. To find out more about Cloonfour N.S. you can attend their Open Evening or contact the school on 071-9638177.

• Low pupil:teacher ratio • Extensive extra-curricular activities including Basketball, Science club, Cooking club, Choir, Football and lots more • Swimming lessons

• Drama productions • Drop off and pick up from crèche available * Optional • Green schools flag 2-3pm supervised • Active schools flag playtime for ALL infants

We invite you to come along to view the school, its facilities and to meet the teachers. Enrolment forms available on the evening or from the school.

Tel: 071 9638177 Email: cloonfourns@hotmail.com Website: www.cloonfourns.weebly.com Find us on Facebook

Top award for Athlone Springs Hotel Athlone Springs Hotel won a silver award at The Irish Accommodation Services Institute Awards last week. This prestigious award pays tribute to the fantastic work of all housekeeping teams across the country. In addition to the hotel’s excellent housekeeping standards the housekeeping team have been on their toes since late last year as they patiently waited for their inspection day. From this inspection the team received an excellent high score which led to their Silver Award success. “I am honestly so proud of the team and how hard

“

We are thrilled to have received IASI’s Silver Award…we have always striven for the highest 4-star standard possible

Cheers! Staff of the Athlone Springs Hotel celebrate their success.

they have worked over the years to achieve a bronze award in 2016 and now a silver in 2017. I am going for gold next year that is for sure” says Shirley Courtney, the hotel’s Housekeeping Manager. General Manager, Daniel Cross commented: “We are thrilled to have received

IASI’s Silver Award. Shirley and her team here in our Accommodation department have always striven for the highest 4-star standard possible and this award is great recognition of that. “The award is a great way to start 2018 and things are looking very bright for Athlone Springs Hotel”.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

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Feighan hails fall in jobless ﬁgures Senator Frank Feighan has said that the number of people out of work in County Roscommon has declined by more than 11.1% in the last year – from 2,852 to 2,535. “There are 317 less people on the Live Register in the county that this time last year. Our regional Action Plan for Jobs is an excellent example of government agencies like Enterprise Ireland, local authorities, the Local Enterprise Offices and businesses working together to tackle regional issues. These results mark another step in the right direction for our regional plans. “The National Planning framework will be unveiled in the coming weeks; this is the first real joined–up plan and investment strategy to transform our country over the decades to come – showing that we have an evidence-based, coordinated plan of what kind of country and society we want and how to get there”.

Senator Frank Feighan

PUBLIC NOTICES

Tidy Towns & Amenity Grants Scheme 2018 Roscommon County Council is currently accepting applications under the Tidy Towns & Amenity Grants Scheme 2018 Applications will be accepted from: - Tidy Towns Associations - Local Development Groups - Sub-Aqua Groups Funding is available for eligible small scale capital amenity projects. Please note that it is important that all sections of the Scheme are read in full before completed application forms are submitted. Application Forms and details of the Tidy Towns & Amenity Grants Scheme are now available from: Community & Enterprise Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon F42 VR98 Tel: 090-6637106 E-Mail: chand@roscommoncoco.ie Application Forms can also be downloaded from: www.roscommoncoco.ie CLOSING DATE for receipt of completed applications is: 5.00p.m. on Friday, 9th March 2018 Martin Lydon Director of Services Roscommon County Council

PUBLICATION OF 2018/2019 REGISTER OF ELECTORS AND THE EDITED REGISTER OF ELECTORS The Register of Electors and the Edited Register of Electors for the registration area of County Roscommon for the year 15th February 2018 to 14th February 2019 has now been published. The Registers may be inspected at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council, your Local Municipal District Offices, Head Garda Station, Head Post Office, County Library and online at www.checktheregister.ie For further information please contact Corporate Services Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Telephone (090) 6637368/147 or email regelectors@roscommoncoco.ie. Majella Hunt Director of Services Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

Pictured is Ballintubber native Michael Garvey, Chief Executive of IPB Insurance, with Eddie Kiernan and Andrew Reynolds from Roscommon Solstice Choir.

Another award for Solstice Choir! Last Saturday (3rd of February) Roscommon Solstice Choir won the Silver Award in the Best Community Based Initiative category in the Local Area Managers Association (LAMA) All Ireland Community & Council Awards 2018. The choir was represented at the event by Eddie Kiernan (Stage Manager) and Andrew Reynolds (Musical Director). It’s a great start to the New Year for this award-winning amateur community choir with members from Roscommon, Athlone, Galway, Longford and Leitrim. Now in their 12th year, the awards recognise and celebrate Pictured at the awards ceremony were Eddie Kiernan (centre) and Andrew Reynolds (right) from community and councils workRoscommon Solstice Choir with Cllr. Tony Ward (left) of Roscommon County Council. ing together.

Council update on funding under Tidy Towns and Amenity Grants Scheme 2018 Now accepting applications for funding Roscommon County Council is currently accepting applications for funding under the Tidy Towns and Amenity Grants Scheme 2018. Funding will be made available to Tidy Towns Associations and Local Development Groups to help them to carry out small-scale amenity projects. Roscommon County Council will prioritise the Tidy Towns Associations who enter the National Tidy Towns Competition during 2018 in order to support their ongoing work. Local development groups who carry out small-scale local enhancement or amenity works but do not enter the National Tidy Towns competition will also be considered for funding. Due to the limited amount of fund-

ing available, large-scale capital projects cannot be considered for funding. Applicants should be aware that payment will only be made in respect of eligible, approved projects on receipt of valid vouched expenditure and confirmation that proposed projects have been completed. The maximum grant payable will be the amount allocated or 75% of the value of invoices submitted, whichever is the lower. Grants will be payable retrospectively. Successful applicants will be required to ensure that their tax and insurance affairs are in order and that they have evidence of same. Roscommon County Council recognises the benefit of this scheme for local communities and also recognises the amount of work that is undertaken by local communities each year.

It is important that all applicants make themselves familiar with the terms of the scheme to ensure their eligibility prior to making an application. The closing date for completed applications is 5 pm on Friday, 9th March 2018. It is intended that decisions in relation to funding will be made at the April Meeting of Roscommon County Council and that all groups will be notified thereafter. Further information, application forms and schemes are available from: Community & Enterprise Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon F42 VR98. Tel: 090-6637106; email: chand@roscommoncoco.ie Application forms can also be downloaded from: www.roscommoncoco.ie

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Naughten under ﬁre over eir withdrawal  DAN DOONER

Special report: Page 19 Communications Minister Denis Naughton came under fire from local politicians following the withdrawal of eir from the National Broadband Plan bidding process despite claiming that the pull-out will speed up the delivery of high-speed broadband nationwide. “Enet SSE can get on with the bidding process that they are currently involved in with the contractors that will do the work. This means that we can get shovels into the ground quicker, we can build out this network quicker and that’s good for the 542,000 homes and businesses in rural Ireland that are currently waiting in frustration for high-speed broadband,” he said. Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy responded by claiming that the National Broadband Plan has now descended into “farcical shambles”. “The roll-out of the National Broadband Plan has been beset with one delay after another. It was promised in 2011 for delivery in 2016, delayed until 2023, and now with Enet as the only remaining bidder it has descended into a chaotic mess - how can we be sure we are getting value for money with one sole bidder left in the race? We now have over 540,000 households left in serious broadband limbo land,” he said. The Fianna Fáil TD raised fears that the

Eir CEO Richard Moat with Minister Denis Naughten.

“growing imbalance between the greater Dublin area and the regions” would get worse if projects such as the National Broadband Plan were not rolled out. Senator Maura Hopkins said the withdrawal of eir and the earlier withdrawal of SIRO raised serious questions over the ability of the plan to deliver broadband for rural communities. “I receive many calls on a weekly basis from individuals and businesses in our region who are completely frustrated with the

poor quality of their broadband. It is simply not good enough. “Minister Naughten, when in opposition prior to the last general election, had stated that the planned 2021 roll-out of rural broadband was not acceptable and needed to be fast tracked. However, since that election these targets have slipped further. Minister Naughten recently committed to a target of 2023 and now this withdrawal by eir puts that revised target again into question,” she concluded.

Successful launch of Network Ireland Roscommon Network Ireland Roscommon launched on Wednesday, 31st of January last at Jackson’s Restaurant, The Square, Roscommon. Some of the county’s top business women gathered to perfect their networking skills with Presentation and Networking expert Barbara Moynihan of On Your Feet. Her Masterclass on Networking Like A Natural went down a storm and those attending came away with tips to make networking easier and a renewed enthusiasm for their businesses. The night also saw Rebecca Harrison, the outgoing President of Network Ireland, introduce the national organisation that has championed women in business in Ireland for the last 35 years. Network Ireland Roscommon branch will drive the personal and professional development of women and holds monthly local events, and offers access to over 120 more nationwide, most of which are free of charge to members. President of the Roscommon branch Lucy Carty said: “Barbara Moynihan was the only person I wanted to speak at our launch event. She’s an award-winning trainer and speaker and her knowledge in the area, teamed with her warm and fun delivery, was perfect for the audience. And she didn’t disappoint!” Speaking about the event, Barbara said: “I was delighted to speak to Roscommon’s leading businesswomen, they really engaged with the topic and I can see they are keen to network and really build business relationships. Network Ireland is such a great organisation and a fantastic way for women in business to work together and support each other”. Barbara Moynihan is the founder of On Your Feet, the presentations training company. She is an international, award-winning trainer specialising in public speaking, presentation and networking. * The next Network Ireland Roscommon event will be on Wednesday, 28th of February at 7 pm in the Athlone Springs Hotel. More information and tickets for the event can be found ww.eventbrite.ie Tickets are free to members or €20 for nonmembers. You can join Network Ireland Roscommon Branch on the night or by contacting the committee roscommon@networkireland.ie (see Facebook, Twitter and Instagram profiles also).

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

An Evening with Mrs Makeup Join McGorisks Pharmacy for an exclusive masterclass with celebrity makeup artist Michelle Regazzoli Stone, aka Mrs Makeup, at the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone on Thursday, March 1st (7 pm-9 pm). Clients include former Miss World Rosanna Davidson, Suzanne Jackson and Pippa O’Connor, specialising in bespoke bridal makeup and media artistry. Michelle has been involved in campaigns with RTE, TV3, Ireland am, Xpose and her work regularly features in VIP, Closer and Hello magazines. Guest speaker on the night is Pamela Laird, the creator of Moxi Loves. A night not to be missed loads of goodies, tips and giveaways. Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival and browse in our pop-up store with 20% off on the night and a voucher for 20% off in-store for the following seven days. You’ll

also receive your gift bag worth €180. Get dressed to impress as the best dressed lady will receive a hamper of Lancome products, voucher for Sirana Spa at Sheraton Athlone Hotel and a voucher for Athlone

Hosted by the fab fabulous

Towncentre valued at a total of €700. Over €1000 of gifts to be won from the raffle on the night. All proceeds going to the Laura Lynn foundation. Tickets (€35) are available on 090-6484384 and in store.

Jo JJoin o i n McGorisks Mc Pharmacy at Hotel a the Sheraton Sherat

Enjoy a glass of bub bubbly on arrival

Receive your free luxury lu gift bag worth over €120

our pop up store on the night

20% Voucher in sstore for the following 7 days Tickets are available ava from At McGorisks Pharmacy Athlone 090-64-84384 Rosco Rosmed Pharmacy Roscommon 090-66-27007 Bal Brodericks Pharmacy Ballinasloe 090-96-42161

Prize for Best Dressed Lady worth over €700 sponsored by

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

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Kilduff resigns from Fianna Fáil  PAUL HEALY

Cllr. Paddy Kilduff is resigning from the Fianna Fáil party today and will join the Independent ranks on Roscommon County Council. The Roscommon People can exclusively reveal that Cllr. Kilduff has tendered his resignation after over 52 years as a member of Fianna Fáil. He informed party HQ of his decision today and is resigning with immediate effect. After joining the party in 1964 at the age of 16, Cllr. Kilduff went on to become one of the most prominent Fianna Fáil administrators in Roscommon before being elected in the local elections of 2004, 2009 and 2014. He was elected first citizen of the county for a one-year term in 2015. After a long controversy-free association with the party, Cllr. Kilduff’s relationship with Fianna Fáil HQ deteriorated in recent times. At odds with party HQ for the past three years, he was censured by the party after it investigated a complaint made against Cllr. Kilduff by a colleague, Cllr. John Keogh. For his part, Cllr. Kilduff rejected those findings and bitterly complained that no investigation had been held into his complaint that he had been recorded without his knowledge when addressing a party meeting in Strokestown. Today, as he tenders his resignation “with great sadness,” Cllr. Kilduff has slammed “unelected yet powerful administrators” whom he alleges have manipulated the party structures and shown little or no respect for grassroot members.

Why I’m resigning from Fianna Fáil today… after over 52 years in the party  CLLR PADDY KILDUFF

I have today, Thursday 8th of February 2018, tendered my resignation as a member of Fianna Fáil. I do this with great sadness, having devoted over 50 years, the whole of my adult life, to the party. Fianna Fáil was founded as a grassroots party where the membership defined the party ethos and controlled its destiny. Unfortunately, I feel that in recent years the party has lost its way because the grassroots are no longer at the core of the organisation.

It is my considered view that Fianna Fáil has been taken over by a cadre of unelected yet powerful administrators who manipulate the party structures, systems and rules to suit their own agenda and ideology. This cadre has little or no respect for the membership of Fianna Fáil and this has been demonstrated time and time again at party conventions throughout the country. It is my belief that any potential candidate who does not subscribe to the ideology of this cadre is going nowhere politically in Fianna Fáil and that members of the party are now little more than fodder for membership fees, selling tickets, knocking on doors

and putting up posters. My parting word would be to respectfully suggest that the grassroots re-assert their right to be heard above the off stage noise of the mandarins who have assumed control of Fianna Fáil. In conclusion, I would like to thank my team of workers and the people of all political persuasions and none, who supported and encouraged me down through the years. This decision does not affect my position as a County Councillor and I will continue to serve the people of County Roscommon to the best of my ability as an independent representative.

‘Divorce’ can be traced back to Strokestown meeting  PAUL HEALY

he souring of Paddy Kilduff’s lifelong relationship with Fianna Fáil can be traced back to one night in Strokestown three years ago. For years, Paddy Kilduff was the consummate Fianna Fáil member – initially as a grassroots man, then in more recent years as a public representative. He was a classic example of the type of fiercely loyal grassroots member who helped make Fianna Fáil such a formidable national movement. Active within the party from the age of 16, he has lived and breathed Fianna Fáil. He was a proven fundraiser, a committed canvasser, and an official who served in a number of capacities. Later, Kilduff switched from the trenches to the frontline and became a wily public representative who was returned by the electorate in three successive elections. But now Paddy Kilduff has decided to walk away from the party he’s been a member of for over 52 years. He says the party has lost respect for its grassroots. And he cannot forgive the party for its handling of what happened that night in Strokestown.

uring early 2015 a meeting of Boyle LEA (Local Electoral Area) was held in the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown. It was a routine meeting, at which a number of party members spoke. The upcoming same-sex marriage referendum was very much in the news at the time. When Cllr. Paddy Kilduff spoke, it was at some length. During his contribution, he expressed his forthright views on the same-sex referendum. It later emerged that Cllr. Kilduff was being secretly recorded on the night. During his contribution on the same-sex referendum issue, Kilduff made controversial comments, views which many people would find offensive. A secret recording of Cllr. Kilduff’s comments was later circulated to some members of the party and to sections of the media. The Irish Sun newspaper published a story on its front page and this was followed by a brief social media furore. Cllr. Kilduff claimed that his comments were off the cuff, that he had been illegally recorded, and that a selectively edited extract

In happier times: Paddy Kilduff and John Keogh celebrate their election in 2009 with supporters.

of that recording had been circulated in an attempt to cause him political damage. Cllr. Kilduff raised the matter with the party in Roscommon and Dublin, alleging that his contribution at the meeting had been illegally recorded without the knowledge or consent of those present and “certainly without my knowledge and consent”. Furthermore, Cllr. Kilduff complained, the recording had been circulated to some party members and “selectively edited” in order to “inflict personal damage” on him. Cllr. Kilduff also maintained that a failed attempt was made from within Fianna Fáil to use the recording to prevent his election as Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council in 2015. As the fall-out rumbled on behind the scenes – and occasionally in the Roscommon media – Cllr. Kilduff made a formal complaint to Fianna Fáil HQ in January 2016, seeking an internal party investigation into the recording. However, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin subsequently told the Roscommon People

that no complaint had been made to the party about the issue. Cllr. Kilduff vehemently disputes this. He was supported by Mary Clifford, who in her capacity as Secretary of Boyle LEA told the Roscommon People that Cllr. Kilduff’s complaint concerning an illegal recording had been reported to party HQ. At the height of the controversy, the entire South Roscommon Fianna Fáil executive stepped down in protest over inaction by the party over the secret recording conducted during the Strokestown meeting. ecretive stuff in Strokestown was not the only strain on Kilduff’s relationship with Fianna Fáil in recent years; a fellow party councillor, John Keogh, had also issued a formal complaint against the Lecarrow man. In June 2015 Cllr. Keogh claimed to Fianna Fáil HQ that Cllr. Kilduff had made a derogatory remark about him to a third party (in October 2014). Following a subsequent investigation, the Fianna Fáil ‘Rules and Procedures Commit-

tee’ upheld Cllr. Keogh’s complaint against Cllr. Kilduff. Censuring the then-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Fianna Fáil warned Cllr. Kilduff that if he repeated the comments complained of (by Cllr. Keogh) he could face suspension or even expulsion from the party. Cllr. Kilduff rejected the findings and said the investigation had been neither fair or objective. In November 2016 Cllr. Kilduff wrote to Boyle Local Electoral Area (LEA) outlining his grievances over how he was being treated and seeking the support of the party locally. His letter was read at a Boyle LEA meeting but the matter was ruled out of order, with no discussion permitted. Relations between Fianna Fáil HQ and Cllr. Kilduff deteriorated badly due to these controversies in recent years, and there were a number of stand-up rows during meetings between both parties. Cllr. Kilduff will not contest the next local elections (in 2019). He will continue now as an Independent councillor.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

NewsPeople newsbrief

Reynolds welcomes initiative on crime Community activist Andrew Reynolds, who recently announced his intention to seek a nomination to run for Fine Gael in the 2019 local elections, has congratulated Ballyleague Village Renewal Committee on its initiative in seeking to combat rural crime. “I attended a recent meeting on crime which was organised by Ballyleague Village Renewal Committee. A new pilot scheme will be introduced aimed at fighting rural crime in the area”. Mr. Reynolds said the meeting focused primarily on how today’s technology can play a significant part in fighting the scourge of rural crime nationwide –specifically with the assistance of whatsapp, viber and the use of security cameras. Almost 200 people attended the meeting, which was addressed by some victims of crime. Mr. Reynolds said: “It is hoped that the scheme, which originated in Ballyleague, might now prove successful and be subsequently rolled out in neighbouring towns and villages throughout the country. “Great credit must be given to the Ballyleague Village Renewal Committee for their initiative and enterprise in helping to keep Ballyleague and Lanesboro crime-free and safe at all times and I hope that other villages and towns follow suit,” concluded Mr. Reynolds.

Pause for thought: Cllr. Paddy Kilduff pictured in reflective mood in the Abbey Hotel. Picture: Andrew Fox

Straight-talking and popular, Paddy says ‘goodbye to all that’  PAUL HEALY

When Paddy Kilduff became a member of Fianna Fáil, Sean Lemass was still Taoiseach. It was the mid-1960s. Paddy’s late parents, Pat and May, were both of Fianna Fáil ‘stock.’ Paddy became active in the party at just 16 years of age; when he was 17, he was elected secretary of Glanduff Cumann, in South Roscommon. Paddy would remain active in Fianna Fáil for over half a century, rising from youth member to a three-term councillor. Today, Thursday, 8th of February, 2018, he’s leaving the party, severing a 52-year bond that seemed to be unbreakable. Yet it’s been on the cards for a few years. While he was re-elected as a Fianna Fáil councillor in 2014, and served as Cathaoirleach of the Council up to the summer of 2016, he’s been in conflict with his own party for the last three years. As he sees it, Cllr. Kilduff was set up by elements within his own party at a meeting in Strokestown in 2015. Worse still, the lack of support he received from Fianna Fáil HQ when he reported the illegal recording of that meeting in Strokestown confirmed in his eyes that ‘Dublin’ no longer cares for its grassroots. He goes further: he says Fianna Fáil has been taken over by unelected but powerful administrators who manipulate the party structures, systems and rules to suit their own agenda and idealogy. A very public row with his colleague, Cllr. John Keogh, is also

part of this story. Cllr. Keogh alleged that Cllr. Kilduff made derogatory comments about him to a third party. When Fianna Fáil finally investigated this, they upheld Cllr. Keogh’s complaint. The party censured Cllr. Kilduff and warned him that any repeat of the comment(s) could lead to his suspension or even expulsion. Cllr. Kilduff rejected that finding. The last couple of years does not represent the full story of the Lecarrow man’s career; it is an acrimonious ending to what was a strong relationship for so long. Over the decades, he was a fiercely loyal grassroots activist for Fianna

“

Over the decades, he was a ﬁercely loyal grassroots activist for Fianna Fáil. He was there during the eras of Lemass, Lynch, Haughey, Reynolds, Ahern, Cowen and Martin

Fáil. He was there during the eras of Lemass, Lynch, Haughey, Reynolds, Ahern, Cowen and Martin. For decades, most of his work was behind the scenes, on the canvass trail and in committee rooms. He was Chairman of the Mid-Roscommon Comhairle Ceanntair for twenty-five years. He served as Chairman of the Fianna Fáil Roscommon Dail Ceanntair for thirteen years and was Director of Elections for Michael Finneran, having also worked closely with party TDs Hugh Gibbons (RIP), Brian Lenihan (RIP), Sean Doherty (RIP), Terry Leyden and Eugene Murphy. It was no surprise when Mr. Kilduff was selected to run for the Council. Unsuccessful in 1991 and 1999, he was elected in Mid-Roscommon in 2004. In 2009 he gambled on switching electoral areas following a re-drafting of the boundaries (he wouldn’t have been able to vote for himself had he remained in ‘Mid’) and was impressively returned in South Roscommon. In 2014 he won a third term and went on to serve as Cathaoirleach from June 2015 to June 2016. His staunchly conservative views would have been consistent with the views of the majority for most of his time in Fianna Fáil, but all that changed in the past decade or so. As Ireland changed, Paddy Kilduff’s views appeared outdated to some people, though others of course agreed with his positions and admired his commitment to his long-held beliefs. Either way, Paddy Kilduff had and

has a likeability factor that transcended all this political stuff. Popular and respected in his community, this was reflected by his ability to attract cross-party support on polling day. In the Council, he has been one of the most popular members over the years. Staunchly conservative, he has no time for political correctness and happily ‘says it straight.’ His supporters have remained loyal to him, and he had the knack of remaining on friendly terms with political opponents and critics too. Although many within Fianna Fáil would have advised against his decision to quit the party, Paddy Kilduff felt a sense of grievance about how he was treated in recent years, and a sense of frustration about how the party was changing. From my conversations with Cllr. Kilduff this week, it is clear that he feels let down by some within Fianna Fáil locally, though not all. He is particularly grateful to Independent Councillor Tony Ward for his support and friendship in recent years. He also acknowledged the support of Seamus Kelly of Athlone/ South Roscommon Fianna Fáil. He remains close to many more within Fianna Fáil in Roscommon. He is quitting Fianna Fáil with a heavy heart. It’s a difficult decision for him and his family. But he was not for turning. Today, to quote one of the most famous Fianna Fáil men of them all, he’s saying ‘Goodbye to all that’. As ever, Paddy has done it his own way, on his own terms.

Kerrane highlights home help shortage Sinn Féin General election candidate Claire Kerrane has said that home help hours in County Roscommon have dropped by 11,594 hours between 2016 and 2017. Ms. Kerrane said: “According to figures supplied by the HSE to the Oireachtas Health Committee on Wednesday morning, home help hours in County Roscommon dropped from 247,476 hours in 2016 to 235,882 in 2017. “Out of all counties in the West, Roscommon has the lowest numbers of home help hours. People across the county are in desperate need of home help hours”.

Pictured is Stephanie Breslin who recently graduated with an Hons. B.A. in NUI, Galway.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

NewsPeople

Council: ‘Road works were in the pipeline!’  DAN DOONER

Roscommon County Council has confirmed that planned resurfacing work

on the N61 into Roscommon town had been delayed because of the Irish Water upgrade which is due to begin next Monday (12th). Irish Water announced last week that it would be carrying out a water main rehabilitation project, in conjunction with Roscommon County Council, on the Athlone Road from St. Coman’s Cemetery to the junction at Hannon’s Hotel. This work is due to commence next week and is expected to last eight weeks with an overlay of the N61 as well as upgrades to Lanesboro Street and The Square to follow. Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Orla Leyden described the Irish Water announcement as “a good news story” for the town, adding that the completion of the work would enable the council to finally carry out resurfacing work on the Athlone Road

Cllr Kathleen Shanagher and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Orla Leyden pictured at the site of proposed road works in Roscommon town. Pic: Andrew Fox

and in the town itself. “The county council had been prepared to carry out badly-needed road works on the N61 but we had been waiting for the pipes to be completed first. “Roscommon County Council understands people’s frustration, we were frustrated with the situation ourselves. We have to work with Irish Water and there was no point in doing the overlay of the road until the water main work had been

completed,” she said. Cllr. Domnick Connolly welcomed news of the water main upgrade on the N61 and called on local people to be patient while the “very necessary” upgrade was being carried out. “I’m happy with the announcement because I was very worried that lead pipes were bringing drinking water into homes in Roscommon town. It was dangerous for residents. The

Cllr Domnick Connolly has welcomed the Irish Water announcement that lead pipes will be replaced in Roscommon town.

drinking water will be much safer after the upgrade. “Unfortunately, the work will be an inconvenience during the time it takes to be completed and I would ask people to have patience while this very necessary work is being carried out,” he said. The road improvements which follow the Irish Water upgrade will include Lanesboro Street and The Square in Roscommon town and will lead to traffic

delays. Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher said councillors in the area were pleased that work could begin but advised those working or commuting through the town to take possible delays into account. “This work is badly needed and will provide a boost to the town. There will be a phased traffic management plan in place on the N61 but people will have to be mindful that road works will be in place and to give themselves more time when travelling to work or school. “Hopefully, the upgrading work in Roscommon town, which will begin at Castle Street and take in Lanesboro Street and The Square, will encourage people to use off-street parking such as the council car park. The onehour free parking spaces will also help to alleviate congestion and feedback suggests they have been a welcome addition the town”.

191 patients on trolleys in Portiuncula Hospital during January  PAUL HEALY

A report from the Roscommon People (July 3rd 2015) following the July 2015 meeting between concerned family members, local representatives, HSE officials and then Junior Health Minister Kathleen Lynch.

Rosalie public meeting tonight! A public meeting to discuss the future of the Rosalie Unit as well the future of mental health services on Co. Roscommon will take place in Hester’s Golden Eagle Bar & Restaurant this evening (Thursday) at 8 pm. The meeting has been organised by concerned families and constituents and the organisers have confirmed that HSE Chief Officer Tony Canavan will be in attendance while Minister Jim Daly and Minister Denis Naughten have also been invited to the meeting. The public meeting aims to address the very serious concerns raised by a recent meeting between family members, local representatives, the HSE and Minister Jim Daly and the future of services in the county in general. All are welcome and encouraged to attend on the night.

There were 191 patients on trolleys in Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe during the month of January. This compares favourably with the corresponding month last year but unfavourably when compared with some previous years. Nationally, January 2018 is being described as “the worst ever month” for hospital overcrowding in Ireland, with 12,201 people on trolleys. In January of 2017, INMO (Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation) figures showed that there were 379 patients on trolleys in Portiuncula that month. However the figure was as low as 46 in January of 2009, 71 in January 2007 and 63 in 2016. Records are no longer required in the case of Roscommon Hospital since the closure of the A&E Unit in 2011. In the month of January of 2011, prior to the closure, there were 191 patients on trolleys in Roscommon. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) says the figures for January 2018 isolate it as the worst month for hospital overcrowding since records began. Those figures showed that 12,201 people were on trolleys in Emergency Departments or on additional beds placed throughout hospitals, during the month of January.

This is an 18% increase over the numbers for January 2017 – which themselves were a record high – and a 128% increase on the numbers recorded in 2007. The most overcrowded hospital in the country in January was University Hospital in Limerick, with 1,003 patients on trolleys that month. Phil Ni Sheaghdha, INMO General Secretary said: “This is an incredible level of overcrowding and the appalling conditions experienced in Emergency Departments are now beyond anything we have ever seen. “It now amounts to a humanitarian crisis for patients and a risk-rich environment for those trying to work in such chaotic conditions”.

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

€2.18m for schools in Galway and Roscommon Minister Denis Naughten has confirmed that the Government has allocated €2.18m for primary and post primary schools in Counties Roscommon and Galway to purchase equipment which will enable them to integrate digital technology into teaching and learning. The news has also been welcomed by Fine Gael Senators Frank Feighan and Maura Hopkins. “A total of 90 primary schools throughout County Roscommon and 228 in County Galway will benefit from funding of €2,000 per school plus €21.47 per mainstream pupil in primary schools, with additional per capita payments for pupils in DEIS schools, Special Classes and Special Schools,” explained Minister Naughten. “The additional funding for pupils in DEIS schools, Special Classes and Special Schools clearly highlights how technology can be of huge benefit to children with learning difficulties. “A further eight second level schools in Co. Roscommon and 42 Co. Galway second level schools will also receive funding of €2,000 per school plus €31.22 per student, with an additional per capita payment for students in DEIS schools”. Senator Maura Hopkins has welcomed news of the funding which has been announced by Minister Richard Bruton. She said: “This funding will enable them to integrate digital technology in teaching and learning. “These grants will benefit schools across the county and will allow for the purchase of equipment such as computers, laptops, tablets, projectors, etc., as well as software to support teaching in our classrooms. They are being made available to all schools built before 2014”. Senator Feighan said: “I know this funding will make a huge difference to school communities at both primary and secondary level and will help equip children and teenagers with the digital skills they need for the future”.

Hopkins “cannot support unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks” Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins says she cannot support unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks. However, she is in favour of terminations in cases of rape, incest, fatal foetal abnormalities and when a woman’s life or health is at risk. In a statement issued to the Roscommon People this week Senator Hopkins said that she has reflected on the Joint Oireachtas Committee Report on the Eighth Amendment and has also consulted with many people on this contentious issue ahead of this summer’s Referendum. “Following much consideration, my personal view is that I will not be supporting the proposal to allow for unrestricted abortions up to 12 weeks. “I do support terminations in cases of rape, incest, fatal foetal abnormalities and when a woman’s life or health is at risk. However, I cannot support abortion without any restriction up to three months. I believe that it is important women receive the necessary care and support in these difficult circumstances. I also believe that we have a responsibility to protect the rights of the unborn child”. Stating that it was important that people know her view as she is a public representative, Senator Hopkins added: “It is important that everyone should have their voice heard on this issue. As a young representative, I am very aware that many people have not had the opportunity to express their view on the 8th amendment. This is why I will be supporting the Government’s decision to hold a referendum later this year on the matter in order to allow the Irish people to have their say”.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

NewsPeople

Pictured at the Fianna Fáil selection convention which was held in the Abbey Hotel were Eamon Gilligan, Joe Connors, Deputy Eugene Murphy, Christabelle Feeney, Deputy Dara Calleary, Senator Terry Leyden and Martin Connaughton. Picture: Andrew Fox

FF target Varadkar – and place their faith in Murphy! POLITICAL PEOPLE  DAN DOONER

Sitting Fianna Fáil TD, Eugene Murphy, claimed he was disappointed that there was no contest at last Friday night’s selection convention at the Abbey Hotel. Deputy Murphy was unopposed as he took his place on the ballot paper for the next General Election following the withdrawal of four challengers after Fianna Fáil had confirmed they would be only be selecting one candidate at convention. Deputy Murphy was in flying form last Friday night as he thanked party members and fellow nominees for rowing in behind him ahead of a potential General Election. “This is not Eugene Murphy’s seat, this is not Fianna Fáil’s seat, it is the property of the voters of Roscommon/East Galway,” he said. He will not have had many more comfortable nights during his political career but will know better than anyone that even minor victories are better than the alternative Deputy Dara Calleary alluded to when addressing those present. “The last time I chaired a selection convention, Eugene came out on the wrong side of it,” the Ballina TD pointed out. And while Fianna Fáil have pursued a one-candidate strategy in other constituencies, Murphy knows all about the party’s tendency to add a second candidate to the paper before election season kicks off in earnest. Cllr. John Keogh, Cllr. Michael Connolly and Seán Óg Higgins also

“

The Taoiseach only puts on a green jersey when it suits him and he has the green socks to match! – Dara Calleary TD

took the opportunity to confirm their intention to run if selected by party headquarters. But the combative Strokestown candidate could enjoy his moment as last Friday’s convention became a procession of sorts and he used the event to rally those troops who had turned out for the formalities. “I would have preferred a contest,” he began, “I always like a bit of cut and thrust”. He went on to say that his election to the Dáil had been a team effort and how at one stage “200 people were out canvassing” on his behalf. Deputy Murphy told his supporters that he wanted to “change things in rural Ireland” and highlighted issues such as delays in the National Broadband Plan and the lack of job opportunities in his constituency. He even called for a return to the Fianna Fáil “glory days” of Terry Leyden. Senator Leyden, who was present, exclaimed: “They’re not over yet!” much to the amusement of party members. Deputy Murphy spoke with passion and received a boisterous ovation. On a night when the Fianna Fáil party in this constituency took aim at Fine Gael, it was An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar who was on the receiving end of most of the barbs. Party spokesperson for public expenditure and reform, Dara Calleary TD, questioned Leo’s commitment to the cause when he described him as a “Taoiseach who only puts on a green jersey when it suits him and he has the green socks to match”. Deputy Calleary then questioned the Government’s decision to spend €5 million on a new communications unit. “No matter how many million euro they spend, they won’t make him look that good!” He then brought proceedings to a close with a rallying cry, stating that Fianna Fáil were “in the business of winning elections” and that the party would be ready for a General Election whenever it arrived. Nevertheless, in the week that it was announced Leo Varadkar had become the most popular Taoiseach since Bertie Ahern, it would seem that despite the vim and vigour at last Friday night’s convention at the Abbey Hotel, it is Deputy Murphy and Fianna Fáil who will need to pull the socks up ahead of any potential election this year. If the last General Election campaign is anything to go by, however, Deputy Eugene Murphy certainly won’t be found wanting when it comes to the legwork involved.

Pictured at the Fianna Fáil selection convention which was held in the Abbey Hotel were Micheál Kitt, Nancy Cregg, Cllr. Michael Connolly and Marty McDermott. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Fianna Fáil selection convention which was held in the Abbey Hotel were Cllr. Michael Connolly, Seán Óg Higgins, Deputy Eugene Murphy, Cllr. John Keogh, Cllr. Orla Leyden and Deputy Dara Calleary. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Fianna Fáil selection convention which was held in the Abbey Hotel were Larry Brennan, Mary Clifford, Deputy Eugene Murphy, Dr. Martin Daly and Deputy Dara Calleary. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

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by the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys T.D. and the Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, Pat Breen T.D, as they opened the annual LEO Forum in Athlone on Monday. The 31 LEOs nationwide, run in partnership by Enterprise Ireland and the Local Authorities, provide a ‘first stop shop’ for the

No ‘Moodie blues’ for Ireland West Airport! The shortlist for The Moodies – the global airport digital, mobile and social media awards – was revealed on Friday and Ireland West Airport are delighted to have been shortlisted for three global awards. The Moodies, which reward best practice in social and digital media among airports and airport retailers globally, has shortlisted Ireland West Airport, one of only two Irish airports to be shortlisted, in three categories. The categories are ‘Best use of Facebook’ (the only Irish airport to make the shortlist in this category), ‘Best Use of Paid Social’ for their campaign marking the opening of the new M17 motorway from Tuam to Gort and for ‘Best overall Use of Social & Digital Media by an airport’. The overall winners will be announced later this month.

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Quality Award for Towey’s Top Oil, Ballaghaderreen Pat Towey from Towey’s Top Oil on the old Dublin Road, Ballaghaderreen is pictured accepting a Top Oil Quality Assurance Certificate on behalf of the team there from Tom Waldron, Regional Manager (Ballina). Pat told the Roscommon People: “I think this Certificate is evidence that all at Towey’s Top Oil are serious about our business! “This Quality Certificate is a testament to our fuel been 100% traceable. We only buy our products from Top Oil. We are obviously delighted to receive this award and we thank our loyal customers for their continued and much-valued support”. the midland region and nationally and it has worked with and supported both regional and national industry through the provision of highly skilled graduates in a number of core areas.

260 new .ie domains registered in county in 2017

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supports available to entrepreneurs, start-ups and small businesses. Commenting on the 2017 LEO results, Minister Humphreys said: “Creating more and better jobs in regional and rural Ireland is a priority for the Government. As the Government rolls out its plans for balanced economic development over the next ten years, I believe the LEOs will have a major role in supporting entrepreneurs to start and stay locally”.

St. Augustine Street, Galway City

President of AIT Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin pictured at the reception with Aengus O’Rourke, Mayor of Athlone.

AIT hosts ﬁrst Business & Industry Dinner On Tuesday, 30th of January, AIT hosted its inaugural Business & Industry Dinner to celebrate regional industry and business leaders, to acknowledge AIT as a centre of excellence and showcase its future industry and research strategy. Since its foundation almost 50 years ago, Athlone Institute of Technology has developed strong links with industry throughout

260 new .ie domains were registered in Roscommon in 2017, according to new figures in the latest edition of the dot ie Domain Profile Report, published by IE Domain Registry (IEDR), the company that manages and maintains Ireland’s official country domain name, .ie. The tally for Roscommon is a slight decrease of 0.4 percent on the previous year. 3,318 new .ie domains were registered in Connacht in 2017, an increase of 21 percent on the previous year. 2017 was the strongest year on record for the .ie database overall. 39,523 new .ie domains were registered in 2017, a 14 percent increase on 2016.

Recognition for IT Sligo A new IT Sligo course in project management has been nominated for a national Irish Construction Excellence (ICE) award. The online part-time Master of Science in Project Management has been shortlisted in the Third Level Course-Post Graduate, Special Purpose or Distance Learning Category.

The new course, which launched in September 2017, is the first online part-time course in Ireland in the area of construction project management.

Four out of ﬁve pharmacies targeted by criminals The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) Crime Survey 2017, published this week, reveals that pharmacies nationwide are under attack from criminals. Four out of five pharmacies (79%) have been the victim of crime within the last year including shoplifting, break-ins and raids. The IPU warned that unless there was increased Garda visibility and tougher sentencing to deter crime against pharmacies, the level of crime will continue to increase with serious ramifications for employers, staff and local communities. Almost one-third of cases were described as violent and/or involved the use of a weapon. A knife was used in 77% of robberies or raids where a weapon was present and a gun was present in 8% of these cases. The research also shows that crimes against pharmacies are not isolated incidents, with 81% of victims reporting having experienced two or more incidents during 2017. The findings from the survey were described by IPU President Daragh Connolly as “truly shocking” and he was particularly concerned at the level of violent crimes against pharmacy staff.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

NewsPeople

Broadband issue bad for business in rural Ireland  DAN DOONER

And then there was one. Minister for Communications, Denis Naughten, confirmed last week that eir had withdrawn from the National Broadband Plan bidding process and thus thrown the roll-out of broadband across Ireland into further uncertainty. The company’s decision to pull out follows SIRO’s decision to withdraw last September and means that Enet are the only broadband provider left in the bidding process. While Minister Naughten is adamant that this will speed up the roll-out of high-speed broadband, other local politicians fear that it leaves huge question marks over the plan. In Co. Roscommon, there’s already a high level of frustration due to the delays in providing faster broadband. Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Orla Leyden, believes the most recent news is a major blow to the Minister and the Government as well as residents in rural Ireland. “It’s bad news for the Government and for all people in rural Ireland who have been promised high-speed broadband”. Cllr. Leyden went on to compare the current National Broadband Plan with the Rural Electrification Scheme of the 1940s. “If this Government was in power back when the Rural Electrification Scheme was announced, we’d still be in the dark”. Following recent moves to modernise the agriculture sector, Roscommon Mart Manager, Maura Quigley, believes a lack of high-speed broadband will hamper farmers as they attempt to conduct their business online. “The Department of Agriculture wants everything done online, such as Sheep Welfare Schemes and calf registration. “In rural areas, farmers could be in the middle of registering calves and the Internet would go. There are farmers who’ve said they need to be in certain parts of the house to get phone reception or broadband service”. Digital Skills Coordinator with Roscommon LEADER Partnership, Christopher Scally works closely with farmers in rural areas and he told the Roscommon People that poor broadband or an intermittent service could seriously hamper training efforts. “I would have done a lot of tutoring around this time last year and in Taughmaconnell they had a community centre and broadband was excellent. Then I go back up to Loughlynn or Lisacul and broadband might

TOP: Loughglynn native, Christopher Scally, is a Digital Skills training coordinator for Roscommon LEADER Partnership and he believes that a lack of high-speed broadband could be detrimental to farmers in rural Roscommon. Pic: Andrew Fox LEFT: Johnny Rafferty from Loughglynn pictured with his purebred limousine heifer.

be very poor and the population might be a lot denser there than it is in places like Taughmaconnell”. Christopher says this inconsistency can hold back digital skills learners. “Overall, a lot of grey hairs

have emanated from this project in terms of trying to find the best regions to deliver these computer courses. “The projects are not designed for one to one tuition, they’re for ten people per class maximum. If you were to ‘hot spot’

off your phone that might be good enough for one laptop but if you were to hot spot ten different laptops where you might not have broadband, the amount of traffic is too much to handle so ultimately it might not be viable to run these courses”.

Christopher says that this could mean put further obstacles in front of farmers currently learning digital skills. “Just this week the 2018 Basic Payment Scheme applications opened up online and by the end of this year all BPS applications

Not going to Plan OPINION Paul Healy It’s difficult not to feel sympathy for our local minister, Denis Naughten. The challenge of bringing high-speed broadband to frustrated rural dwellers is beginning to look decidedly jinxed. The project has been beset by delays for years. Even Naughten’s predecessor, the supremely confident Alex White, sounded like he was beginning to doubt his own assurances on the subject towards the end of his ministry. When Naughten took on his multifaceted ministry, he made delivery of the National Broadband Plan a high profile priority. As challenging as the project is, Naughten has always talked it up, almost making it a personal crusade. He has committed to 100% coverage across Ireland within a few years. Naughten could not have foreseen the disastrous course the process would take. In 2016, three bidders were

shortlisted as contenders for the contract for implementation of the National Broadband Plan. Everything seemed to be going well. It was quite a bombshell when SIRO withdrew from the race last year; that was nothing compared to the shock (at least to the wider public) when Eir pulled out last week. Naughten tried to put a brave face on things after Eir’s exit but it’s hard to argue with those who now describe the entire affair as a shambles. There is now just one bidder left (the Enet consortium). This unsatisfactory situation means there is no longer a conventional tendering process, no credible sense of competition. It’s a mess. Opposition politicians have had a halfhearted go at Minister Naughten. They’re more into lambasting the Government as an entity than Naughten on a personal level; it’s a sign perhaps of the significant cross-party respect for the Roscommon man. Denis Naughten himself has tried his best all week to deal with the fall-out, to again talk up the central issue.

He remains adamant: the scheme will be delivered on time, and at no extra cost. Naughten’s talking the talk, but it’s undeniable that this has been a setback, and it’s inevitable that there will be renewed doubt about the status of the plan. The Government is still insisting that every home and business in the country will have high-speed broadband within the new few years. The opposition are expressing renewed doubt. Hundreds of thousands of people are waiting, and having their patience tested. On a political level, it’s high stakes for Naughten. If he remains in this ministry, sticks with this troubled venture, overcomes the hurdles and achieves the desired outcome, he’ll have created an impressive legacy. On the other hand, this saga could go on for countless years and Denis Naughten could join a not-so-merry band of broadband-beleagured ministers who came, saw but didn’t conquer. For the country’s sake – and, from a political perspective his own – I hope that Denis Naughten’s genuine commitment and determination on this issue is ultimately rewarded.

must be 100% compliant online. A lot of these farmers are now left in limbo because they don’t know whether to go through a consultant or a planner or try to complete this themselves online without that confidence (from learning digital skills)”. Local businesses will suffer too. Cormac Dalton of ArchEngTech Consulting, an engineering firm based in Strokestown, has had major issues with broadband service in the past and believes it’s detrimental to attracting new businesses to rural Ireland. “We had issues and in the end we got it sorted but it took a year and half. It involved a lot of back and forth with eir until Michael Fitzmaurice put us on the right track. “We’re a very hands on as a firm and we like to get things done ourselves and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to pick up the phone and get those issues sorted. “Eir have a hub just off Elphin Street here which offers 100mbps and we are within the radius where we should have been getting 100mbps but we were only getting 9 or 10 at that time”. Cormac added there was office space available in the region but from his experience, large companies would most certainly be put off due to the lack of highspeed broadband and after hearing some of the problems experienced around the county, who could blame them?

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

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Thumbs-up for Turkish trip! IFA National Livestock chairperson Angus Woods has welcomed the trip by Agriculture Minister Michael Creed to Turkey on live exports. He said IFA and Bord Bia visited this market last October and it is clear that there is real potential for increased export. “Based on positive discussions we had with the Turkish Meat and Milk Board (ESK), it is clear Turkey has an import requirement for 500,000 head of live cattle each year. Ireland could supply up to 100,000 head of this requirement on an annual basis”.

IFA unhappy with ‘confusion’ on fodder scheme

Special Spring Sale of Bullocks Friday, February 16th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, February 8th Also Heifers & Dry Cows ---------------

Spring Special Sale of Weanlings Tuesday, February 13th at 5 p.m. Also Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, February 8th -----------------------

IFA Connacht Regional chairperson Padraic Joyce has said that there is a great deal of confusion about aspects of the transport scheme for fodder announced recently by the Dept. of Agriculture. Mr. Joyce said Minister Creed needs to convene an immediate meeting of the Fodder Action Group so that all stakeholders can discuss how the scheme will work in practice. Mr. Joyce said IFA had stressed that the

Castlerea Co-operative ve Livestock Mart Ltd.

scheme should have the minimum of bureaucracy as this is a busy time of the year on farms. He added that “the lack of clarity is adding to the stress on farmers who don’t have enough fodder”. He said there is confusion as to who can qualify and which counties are eligible. “The Minister has to convene the Fodder Action Group immediately and the Department has to provide clarity on how the scheme will operate”.

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Commenting after the announcement of the Fodder Transport Subsidy Scheme, MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan said that while any level of support was welcome, the scheme as it currently stands is limited in scope and falls short of what is required. He said: “The lack of a meal voucher scheme to

go with the transport subsidy scheme is a major failing and, this aspect must be revisited again”. He added that a meal voucher scheme is necessary to ensure that farmers who are not yet under pressure can extend their existing silage supplies to avert a crisis situation in six weeks’ time.

THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS 3 RINGS IN OPERATION. ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. YARD OPENS AT 8.AM. FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

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Johann Martin, Branch Manager, FBD Insurance, presenting 2nd prize to John Egan, Ballinlough, for the best AA store heifer with not more than two permanent teeth at the Annual Aberdeen Angus heifer show and sale at Castlerea Mart. Also in photograph is Seamus Caulfield, Irish Angus Society and judge on the day. Pic: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea

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Weanling heifers Char X 425kgs €1040, Lim X 365kgs €900, Lim X 310kgs €900, BAX 345kgs €850, Char X 310kgs €845, Lim X 330kgs €830, Simm X 280kgs €830, AAX 315kgs €620, HEX 390kgs €760, Simm X 290kgs €800, Char X 195kgs €600.

Weanling bulls Char X 480kgs €1360, Lim X 665kgs €1345, Char X 500kgs €1285, Lim 445kgs €1240, Lim 425kgs €1230, Lim 410kgs €1200, Char X 350kgs €1085, BBX 365kgs €1060, 2 Lim X 337kgs €980, AAX 435kgs €935, Simm X 365kgs €930, Char X 250kgs €835, 2 Lim X 260kgs €720, AAX 320kgs €800.

Manager’s report… Brendan Egan, Castlerea Mart “There were 500 cattle on offer this week with numbers steadily increasing. In general, trade was similar to previous weeks, with the usual spring trade starting to kick in as customers tried to source quality stores for feeding. “Weanling bulls in particular were a very strong trade with a good selection of quality calves on offer resulting in an excellent clearance. “Likewise in the heifer and heifer weanling rings quality lots were in strong demand also while the dry cow trade and breeding stock remained firm. “Cows with calves at foot made from €780 to €1560 per head while springer cows made from €950 to €2000 per head. Young calves on offer made form €130 to €380 per head with stronger runner lots making from €360 to €810 for top continental lots. “Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (8th) with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am and there will be three rings in operation”.

Manager’s report… Maura Quigley, Roscommon Mart “The numbers on offer were slightly increased from the last Tuesday’s weanling sale. There was a brisk trade for weanling heifers with prices ranging from €2.52 per kilo up to €3.08 per kilo. Weanling heifers made from €305 to €615 over. “There was a very lively trade for weanling bulls with a full clearance of lots. Prices ranged from an average of €2.54 per kilo up to €3.34 per kilo. Weanling bulls made from €395 to €880 over. “There was a good attendance of customers all anxious for stock. Roscommon Mart will host a spring special sale of weanlings on Tuesday, February 13th at 5 pm. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday, February 8th”.

Castlerea Mart sample prices Bullocks Lm 470kgs €1250, Ch 400kgs €1130, Lm 485kgs €1230, Ch 525kgs €1350, Ch 505kgs €1290, Ch 595kgs €1435, Lm 605kgs €1485, Lm 585kgs €1325.

Dry cows Ch 820kgs €1685, Ch 610kgs €1360, Ch 810kgs €1360, Hex 470kgs €775, AA 430kgs €755.

Weanling bulls Lm 295kgs €900, BBX 280kgs

€845, Lm 265kgs €840, Lm 395kgs €1285, Ch 440kgs €1225, Lm 395kgs €1095.

Weanling heifers Lm 260kgs €765, Lm 240kgs €760, Lm 330kgs €1160, Lm 360kgs €955, Lm 390kgs €1035.

Heifers Lm 405kgs €1215, Lm 380kgs €1075, Ch 310kgs €1920, Ch 490kgs €1140, Ch 445kgs €1080, Ch 515kgs €1245, AA 450kgs €1070.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

FarmingPeople

‘Rural Ireland will be gone in ﬁve years!’  DAN DOONER

Four Roads farmer Willie John Fitzmaurice was one of those who stood up to speak at last Monday’s public meeting to discuss the National Planning Framework at the Hodson Bay Hotel. He feels strongly that unless something is done in the next five years, the rural Ireland we know will have all but disappeared in the next decade. “There were four issues I raised at the meeting. Rural Ireland needs highspeed broadband, we need the County Councils to relax their laws in relation to planning, we need more factories and we need the return of the pension for farmers,” he said. Mr. Fitzmaurice feels that years of neglect have left rural Ireland lagging behind in terms of development and he believes that if something isn’t done, the decline will continue. “Factory farming will

take over and that will be the end of rural Ireland. At the moment I have to travel four miles for a pint of milk, my son is studying in Scotland where factory farming is prevalent and he has to travel almost eight miles to the nearest shop”. He added that rural Ireland needed strong representation at national level in order to “level the playing field”. “Michael Finneran worked hard in his portfolio and got results but before that there was no minister. We need a Minister with power in this constituency”. He added that he had sympathy for Minister Denis Naughten in relation to the current broadband situation and said he believed that the ESB should be encouraged to re-enter the National Broadband Plan bidding process. He went on to praise the work of local public representatives including the organiser of Monday’s meeting.

“Michael Fitzmaurice hosted the meeting on Monday. Nothing was said about rural Ireland until he came on stream and now everyone wants to get on the bandwagon”. Willie John highlighted the exodus of people from rural areas and said that jobs were needed in order to prevent that. “IT and medical factories seem to be where the jobs are. The IDA have enough buildings idle, factories can be put in there in towns like Roscommon, Castlerea, Tuam and Ballyhaunis. “You have to keep people or there will be no Church, no GAA club and no schools and that’s the heart of any community”. The farmer who owns land in Four Roads and Athleague, also highlighted the need for “a more even slice of the cake” when it came to farm payments. “We also need to level the playing field in terms of payments. It’s better

Four Roads farmer, Willie John Fitzmaurice, spoke at Monday’s public meeting on the National Planning Framework at the Hodson Bay Hotel.

for a community if you have five families getting €30,000 rather than one

family getting €150,000”. Willie John called for the development of national

Fears raised at NPF meeting in Roscommon Fears were expressed that rural Ireland will be “forgotten about” in the National Planning Framework (NPF) 2040 at a meeting on Monday night in the Hodson Bay Hotel. Organised by the Coalition Against the National Planning Framework, the meeting was attended by approximately 300 people. Independent TD for Roscommon-Galway Michael Fitzmaurice, Labour TD for Tipperary Alan Kelly, Fianna Fáil TD for West Galway Eamon Ó Cúiv and Sinn Féin TD for Sli-

go-Leitrim Martin Kenny all voiced their concerns regarding the plan. The coalition called for a significant overhaul of the plan in order for it to better serve the country as a whole. Deputy Kelly explained that this should be a plan for everyone. “This is singularly the most important thing for our country. That’s a big statement; but it’s fact. This will plan everything. It will plan where population is going; it will plan where our housing is go-

ing; it will plan for my children’s futures; it will plan for the next generation - it’s that big”. Deputy Fitzmaurice described the turnout at the meeting as a “statement of intent” in relation to rural concerns regarding the NPF. The rural TD pointed out that there was political representation from 14 different counties at the meeting. “That tells its own story; that tells us that there is a genuineness of people wanting to come together

to make sure that this is done right. “We’re not opposed to plans. We want to make it better. We want to make sure that - for our generation and the next generation - this will give hope, that this will give a future, that this will give the kids that had to travel alternatives, and maybe having the opportunity to work closer or beside where they were reared or born,” he said. Deputy Fitzmaurice explained that the statistics in the current draft plan indi-

cate that 50% of all the extra people going forward will live in cities, that 23% will live in larger towns and that 16% will stay in rural Ireland. Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil TD Eamon Ó Cúiv stated that rural Ireland has huge potential – but, that this plan is designed to inhibit that “enormous potential”. Deputy Ó Cúiv said: “It’s time to shout stop. Maybe in the past we didn’t all shout stop together; but this time we must because the train is leaving the station”.

resources such as the River Suck and River Shannon before reiterating his ear-

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Eamon Ó Cúiv TD, Alan Kelly TD, Cllr Nigel Dineen, Michael Fitzmaurice TD and Martin Kenny TD heard the concerns of the people in relation to the National Planning Framework at the Hodson Bay Hotel on Monday night.

lier point that if drastic efforts weren’t made rural Ireland would be no more.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

WeekendPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION In the Old Testament, leprosy is depicted as punishment for disobedience of God’s commands (see Numbers 12:12–15; 2 Kings 5:27; 15:5). Considered “unclean” – unfit to worship or live with the Israelites, lepers are considered “stillborn,” the living dead (see Numbers 12:12). Indeed, the requirements imposed on lepers in today’s First Reading – rent garments, shaven head, covered beard – are signs of death, penance, and mourning (see Leviticus 10:6; Ezekiel 24:17). So there’s more to the story in today’s Gospel than a miraculous healing. When Elisha, invoking God’s name, healed the leper, Naaman, it proved there was a prophet in Israel (see 2 Kings 5:8). Today’s healing reveals Jesus as far more than a great prophet – He is God visiting His people (see Luke 7:16). Only God can cure leprosy and cleanse from sin (see 2 Kings 5:7); and only God has the power to bring about what He wills (see Isaiah 55:11; Wisdom 12:18). The Gospel scene has an almost sacramental quality about it. Jesus stretches out His hand – as God, by His outstretched arm, performed mighty deeds to save the Israelites (see Exodus 14:6; Acts 4:30). His ritual sign is accompanied by a divine word (“Be made clean”). And, like God’s word in creation (“Let there be”), Jesus’ word “does” what He commands (see Psalm 33:9). The same thing happens when we show ourselves to the priest in the sacrament of penance. On our knees like the leper, we confess our sins to the Lord, as we sing in today’s Psalm. And through the outstretched arm and divine word spoken by His priest, the Lord takes away the guilt of our sin. Like the leper we should rejoice in the Lord and spread the good news of His mercy. We should testify to our healing by living changed lives. As Paul says in today’s Epistle, we should do even the littlest things for the glory of God and that others may be saved. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory. com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: P. & S. Cooney, 2nd: M. Moran & A. Murray, Gross: J. Donellan & J. Halliday. East/West – 1st: M. Egan & O. Fahy, 2nd: C. Tierney & B. Quinn, Gross: L. & L. Curley. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: K. Dowd & C. McGrath, 2nd: M. & P. Mellett, Gross: M. & V. Brennan. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. Coyle & E. Moran, 2nd: H. Lynn & G. Relihan, Gross: M. Law & M. Pullinger. East/ West – 1st: K. Dowd & C. Ansboro, 2nd: N. Hynes & A. Flynn, Gross: N. Costello & C. McGrath. Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1st: M. Hanley & H. Earley, 2nd: G. Spillane & J. Devaney, Gross: M. Law & S. Farrell. East/West – 1st: A. Igoe & G. McDermott, 2nd: M. Hickey & R. Roughneen, Gross: A. Hewitt & E. Curley. Section B North/South – 1st: J. O’Gara & G. Bannon, 2nd: A. Kilduff & M. Fallon, Gross: V. & P. Finneran. East/West – 1st: P. Donnelly & N. Rogers. 2nd: K. Jones & M. McDermott, Gross: M. Byrne & P. Whyte. Kilbride Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. Fallon & P. Donohoe, 2nd: F. Keane & B. Gillooly, 3rd: E. Dowling & P. Dowd. East/ West – 1st: M. Hussey & L. Hussey, 2nd: T. & B. Moran, 3rd: M. Fallon & M. Mullen.

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Funny business: How I’ve gone full circle with Tommy It’s funny how you can sometimes take a dislike to a person, for no real reason, and in my case poor old Tommy Tiernan is, or was, one of those unfortunate people who fell into that category. I developed a dislike for him without ever even seeing him live, and, no matter what, I just couldn’t take to him. The early appearances he made on the Late Late Show, in which he was famously irreverent about the Catholic religion and the Pope, and stuff like that, probably didn’t help. Whatever the reason, I just didn’t like him and continually maintained that he wasn’t fit to lace the boots of people like Brendan Grace, when it came to comedy. And so it is an amazing about-turn for me to tell you that I am quite a fan

of his new chat show, in which he is supposed to have no idea about the identity of his guests. Initially I would have been a bit sceptical about that claim, but having seen a recent show, in which his guest was scientist Dr. Niamh Shaw –whose ambition is to go to Mars in the near future – there can be no doubt that Tommy had no idea who she was. The funny thing is that on this show he is almost normal, although not fully, and he can adapt to the circumstances he finds himself in. He can be serious if called for, and of course he can inject a moment of total lunacy at any given time. If you haven’t got to see the show yet, make a point of catching up with it as soon as you can. I must be getting either old, or senile, because I am also a new fan of Irish music royalty, Foster & Allen, and

one of my favourite moments so far was when Tommy asked them about playing to Irish audiences, and Foster said they would get lads to go to see them if they were playing in Australia, but if they were at home the same lads would go to Longford if Foster & Allen were playing in Mullingar! Anyway, I am amazed that I have changed my mind so much about Tommy Tiernan, but I’m still not sure that I would ever go to see any of his stand-up shows. Talking of television shows, I like the new Sunday night drama Striking Out, and I must say that I think some of the criticism it is getting is a little over the top. In my opinion Amy Huberman is a talented and very watchable actress. Between that show and Dancing with the Stars, which I hate to say I

look at (admittedly with one eye on the Sunday papers), Sunday night television is almost passable, although when my two favourites, Bernard and Marty, bite the dust I might just slip out for a nice, quiet Sunday night pint.

On Saturday afternoon we had one of the most extraordinary sporting moments of my lifetime, when Johnny Sexton dropped that match-winning goal in Paris. As I watched it at home, having managed to escape from the day job in Athlone a little early, I would safely say you could hear my roars at least as far away as the village of Creggs. I was lucky enough to have been in Cardiff on the occasion of Rog’s (Ronan O’Gara) incredible Grand Slam

clinching drop goal in 2009, and I will never forget the scenes of sheer joy we witnessed that day. Last Saturday’s score, which in time may turn out to be just as important, unleashed some similar emotions, and will probably never be forgotten. Rugby is still a minority sport in this country, with Creggs technically being the only rugby club in Co. Roscommon, but it has really gained support over the last few years. Judging by the number of lads and

girls who watched Saturday’s match in local pubs, the Six Nations must be a big help to our publicans’ dwindling coffers. I am jumping a lot of difficult hurdles now, but if Ireland and England were to meet in a championship decider on Paddy’s Day, what a massive financial bonanza that would be. Sadly, I will be over in Twickenham for that game, so I won’t be able to get to the local pub for a few – it can be a tough life.

And finally…

Johnny had us jumping for joy

Creggs march on (and a trip down memory lane)

Out here in Creggs, we are, as I told you last week, having a really wonderful rugby season. On Sunday last in Corinthians, the fairytale continued, when our lads beat the home side to qualify for the Connacht Junior Cup semi-final for the first time in fifteen years. To win the cup, which we last won in 1993 – twenty-five years ago – is a pretty tall order, as we are the only team from outside the top tier of Connacht junior rugby, but as we have seen umpteen times over the years in the FA Cup across the water, anything can happen in a cup match, and therein lies the magic of the cup. Back to Corinthians, and I was surprised to see that a picture of the team from 1974, on which I played

The Corinthians team which won the Glynn Memorial Trophy in 1975. Back row, from left: Jim Roche, John Colleran, D. McDermott, J. Flynn, J. Glynn, T. Cunningham, Iggy Madden and K. Brandon. Front row, from left: F. Brandon, M. Berry, C. Smyth, John Cullinane (Capt.), D. Brandon, G. Barrett and M. Moorecroft.

alongside my brothers Kieran, and the Rasher (Dec), and Jack the Higher, is still adorning the clubhouse wall. Just in case you don’t believe me, I have forwarded a copy of the photo

to my friend Dan in the People. If he doesn’t use it, he will be my friend no longer, but anyway it brought back some great, and not so great, memories of days long ago.

Finally, for this week, I couldn’t make the huge meeting in the Hodson Bay Hotel on Monday night, which I am sure is covered elsewhere in this paper, and while it was a very noble and worthwhile effort, particularly on Michael Fitzmaurice’s behalf (ably assisted by Eamonn O’Cuiv), I am told by a reliable source that most of the speeches were made by selfcongratulatory county councillors outlining all they had done for their respective areas, and also by members of various farming and business organisations, and that the ordinary person on the street barely got a look at a microphone. If that is true, it strikes me as a missed opportunity, because we have to listen to enough waffle from our politicians, without having to hear them again at that type of public meeting, although it was great to hear that the farmers got a bit of coverage through my neighbour, John Hanley. But if there is to be another meeting, maybe we should stop the councillors and other politicians from using it as a soapbox!

Till next week, Bye for now!

WEEKEND PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

‘I always love coming back to perform in Roscommon’ Neil for Arts Centre in April – with new show!  MIRIAM KERINS

Renowned for his virtuosity as a talented comedian, radio broadcaster, TV presenter and writer of IFTA awardwinning programmes featuring such subjects as St. Patrick, the Vikings and a four-part series, Holding out for a Hero…among others, Offaly man Neil Delamere is also a humane animal lover, a devoted son, a loving husband and an absolute gentleman. I was delighted to catch up with one of Ireland’s most in-demand entertainers, especially as he’s so busy touring with his hugely successful 50-date show, Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Pensioner. And, as Neil’s preparing to go head to head with Rossie audiences this spring, appearing at the Roscommon Arts Centre on the 14th of April, I wanted to find out what fans (and readers) could expect. Now, as we all know, every talented performer has his/her own inspirations for creating a body of work – in this instance it was Neil’s beloved dad who motivated him. “The show represents two people out on an adventure. Dad is 82 and he was doing meals on wheels and he asked me to help him; and so the show is all about what happened next. Before we went out, he explained to me that it wasn’t just about delivering meals, it was about chatting with people and taking our time. However, when we got to the fourth house, dad got a tip for a horse and we had to rush through the rest of the deliveries so we could finish up in time for the race,” laughs Neil. Now despite the fact that the show’s narrative is based around the close-knit father/son relationship, Neil’s dad has yet to see it live. “Dad is enjoying the idea but he hasn’t seen it (the show) yet. He’ll probably see

“

it in Tullamore” explains Neil who is also in the middle of flexing his acting muscles, telling me “I’ve got a Mockumentary coming up…it’s all a bit top secret at the moment though, but I’ll let you know when I can announce it. It’s for the BBC in the North and it’s my first foray into the acting world because I’ve done documentaries and panels shows, but acting is one of the few things I haven’t tried”. Something else the versatile Neil hasn’t tried is Dancing with the Stars, although he does watch it and enjoys it and says if he was asked to appear on the hit show he “wouldn’t rule it out”. “From what I’ve seen it seems like great fun. I’ve always been lucky enough to do things that interest me”. On a more personal level, something, (or someone), that’s close to Neil’s heart is his dearly departed rescue Lurcher, Charlie. “He was great. We fostered him and then we adopted him from A Dog’s Life rescue, but sadly he got cancer and he died. I’m minding two dogs at the moment and I would consider adopting another dog from a shelter. I’d get a Lurcher. They’re wonderful; so calm. A dog is great

Dad is 82 and he was doing meals on wheels and he asked me to help him…he explained to me that it wasn’t just about delivering meals, it was about chatting with people and taking our time. However, when we got to the fourth house, dad got a tip for a horse and we had to rush through the rest of the deliveries!

company for someone who works late and comes home late; in fact they’re great companions for comedians. “A dog will sit up watching telly with you when you come in at all hours after a gig and keep you company,” says the skilled broadcaster who hosts his own two-hour radio show, ‘Neil Delamere’s Sunday Best’ on Today FM.

“The show’s a mix of everything. It’s great to read something in the papers during the week and think, oh I’d like to discuss that on Sunday”. However, despite delivering critically acclaimed comedy shows across Ireland, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and as far-flung as the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival, to name but a few, Neil says he loves coming back and performing at the Roscommon Arts Centre; especially given the strong and favourable audience reaction to his unique, razor-sharp brand of humour, saying “within the counties of the Republic of Ireland, there’s not a huge difference (in audience reaction). But as you get away from Dublin, it’s a bit of a maverick thing for comedians to play to audiences where there’s a kind of…this is the way we do things here (attitude)…and I always love coming back to perform in Roscommon; they’re a great audience in Roscommon.” And we love you too Neil. Welcome back. * Neil Delamere’s brand new tour, Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Pensioner comes to Roscommon Arts Centre on the 14th of April. Don’t miss it.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Celebrating First Holy Communion and Conﬁrmation

What’s in a (Conﬁrmation) name?  MIRIAM KERINS

For those of us born into the Catholic religion, and who receive the sacrament of Confirmation, choosing the name of a Saint is an integral part of the whole process. In a way, it’s meant to help us identify our own strengths and weaknesses. For example, when I was confirmed I chose the name Clare in honour of Saint Clare of Assisi whose feast day falls on 11th of August, (by coincidence only days after my own birthday). But my reasons for taking Clare’s name weren’t religious, nor had they anything to do with the August connection, they were actually spiritual and due to the fact Clare was one of the first followers of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. Now at the time, most of my classmates were choosing the name Thérèse in honour of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, but as I’m actually christened MiriamThérèse, after ‘the little flower,’ and I adore animals, (the kids call me Dr Diva Doolittle), Clare was a no-brainer for me. So, now ya know. And so, as it’s a custom to choose a Saint’s name, I suppose we really should encourage our kids to try to honour someone who has proved inspirational in their lives, someone whom, if they were alive today, could teach our kids a lot about using their wisdom and insights to try and shape those around us, so that maybe, just maybe, the world would become a better place. Then again, your kid could

have fun and choose a name the Bishop will have huge trouble pronouncing! Oops; I’m going straight to hell, aren’t I! Below are some of this year’s inspirational front-runners; see if your darling identifies with any of them. And no they’re not Bear or Apple. • Patrick – The whippersnapper patron saint of green Guinness, dodgy hats, colourful parades and scourge of snakes. • Peter – Leader of the pack, well the 12 disciples; he was really called Simon, but apparently Jesus nicknamed him Peter; however, as he became the very first Pope, we could say St Peter was a bit of a trendsetter. • Bridget – Having been stored in the attic since the 1950s, the name Bridget is back with a bang. This solid role model for all young Irish girls is a bit of a latter day Martha Stewart who fashioned her iconic cross from rushes, which is said to ward off evil and hunger. Brigid was also instrumental in persuading so called pagans to embrace Catholicism, making her the Superwoman of her era. • Bernadette Soubirous – A stunningly beautiful teenager who became the media sensation of her time, so to speak. At age 14 when Bernadette witnessed a series of life-changing visions of the Virgin Mary in Lourdes, her parents were morto and told her to get a grip, however the stubborn teen ignored them and continued to visit what is now a place of worship and miraculous healings.

Look Great, Feel Fantastic Add es Sleev

Your First Stop for First Communion

 MIRIAM KERINS

ut Let o s e r D s

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Miriam’s tips on dressing your kids on their big day

& RTE’s

Show

he First Holy Communion Day is possibly one of the most important events in a child’s life. It makes them feel special; what with the dress, the suit, the accessories, the trip to the hairdressers/barbers, the attention, the significance of the event itself; the after-party/ family meal out in a hotel/restaurant, the cards and the gifts, etc. And, if that child is a styleconscious little diva or dude, then choosing the right outfit is extremely important. After all, you’ll want to ensure your darling girl/boy feels comfortable, beautiful and elegant, and is up to date with current fashion trends. It’s also vital their outfit is appropriate and in keeping with the nature and social standards and guidelines being set down by both your child’s school and by the parish priest; after all this is a religious ceremony not a catwalk parade; so respect should be the order of the day.

Here’s a little checklist you might like to use as a guideline. First of all, if you haven’t gone dress/suit hunting yet, get out there now to ensure you get the pick of the crop! I have it on good authority that diamante detailing is gonna be huge this year for the girls. However, do consider all varieties of styles; remember, just because a trend is fashionable and looks great on the hanger doesn’t mean it’ll suit your munchkin. Bear in mind, we all have our own unique and beautiful body shapes and the end result is that he/she’ll not only look amazing, he/she’ll also feel amazing and like a little prince/princess on the big day. Something else to bear in mind, although it’s highly unlikely, but some suppliers may expect you to make an appointment for a consultation, and, in order not to disappoint the child, do ring first to be sure, to be sure. Decide on your budget. It can be very easy to get carried away or indeed be persuaded

by a savvy eight-year-old to max out the credit card, (believe me I was that sucker), so set an amount you want to spend, allow a little leeway and then stick to it. In addition, if Nana, the Godmother or a favourite relative offers financial help, don’t be too proud to take it. Everyone in our family dressed my granddaughter when she made her Holy Communion and I know for a fact that next year will be the same for her Confirmation. Sure it’s tradition and it gives you a bigger budget to blow! Make sure you discuss both yours and your child’s expectations regarding what he/she would like to wear, take those preferences on board, and discuss with them what’s acceptable and what’s not before you have a full-blown, mortifying screaming match in the middle of the shop and in front of yer wan down the road whose kids are only perfect! Well, so she says anyway…eh, dream on missus!

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Celebrating First Holy Communion and Conﬁrmation

Burgess unveils 2018 Communion Wear Collection B

department store, Athlone, has unveiled its beautiful Communion wear collection for 2018. Renowned as a destination communion wear stockist, Burgess specialises in quality labels including Emmerling, Olivia K, Isabella & Koko, Celebrations and Jelly Tots dresses, as well as the 1880 Club brand of boys wear. Rosie Boles, Burgess Managing Director said: “We take great pride in our Communion wear collection, stocking quality labels we have worked with for many years. It is such a special occasion in a young person’s life and we are delighted to be part of that, making sure they look and feel wonderful on their big day. “We take great care in helping with outfit selection, ensuring that no two of the same dress will be found in the same class. Our team has years of experience in helping Mums and Dads choose the perfect look for their son or daughter, and we offer the following advice to help make the experience an enjoyable one!” urgess

Our top tips Shop early: Begin shopping for Communion wear at least 12 weeks before Communion Day – to ensure the widest selec-

tion of styles and sizes are available. Being organised will avoid disappointment. Consider dress style: Have an idea of the style of dress you and your daughter would each like – and be prepared to compromise! It is a good idea to have an idea of the style you are looking for before hitting the shops as there is a plethora of styles available. Discussing style in advance will narrow the search – and also minimise disagreements on the shop floor! Modesty is important: Be cognisant of any specific rules the Church may have about the style of dress permitted so as to avoid any awkwardness on the day. 2 piece or 3 piece suit? Dickie bow or tie? Formal or casual footwear? For boys, have an idea in advance of the type of suit, accessories and footwear style you would both like. This will narrow your search, help to focus your shopping trip and make it a more relaxed, enjoyable occasion. Consider suit colour: There is a wide range of suit colours available. Think about the colours that complement your son’s complexion to make the choice easier. Define your budget: Knowing how much you want to spend in advance will make it a lot easier

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to choose the ideal dress as well as ensuring you can enjoy the whole experience. Remember to include accessories, such as a veil, tiara, gloves, bag, tights, umbrella and shoes, in your budget. Ensure the perfect fit: Once you’ve picked the perfect dress or suit you need to make sure that it fits perfectly so that your child is comfortable, can relax in their new outfit and enjoy their big day. Accurate measurements are crucial for the right fit. Burgess’ experienced staff can gauge growth room as well as offering an alteration service on all dresses and suits purchased in store. Know where to shop: Buying your son or daughter’s communion outfit is a special occasion so make sure you’re confident that you’ve chosen the right shop or boutique for you. Buy from a reputable retailer who will have your dress or suit on time and make the alterations needed to ensure a perfect fit. Burgess are happy to take deposits on all outfits to secure your choice while spreading the payments. They also steam all dresses before collection in time for the big day. Have fun! Make a day of it and enjoy this great family occasion and once in a lifetime experience!

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Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

P lanning your Wedding Day

Have your say on your big day!  MIRIAM KERINS

Do:

eghan Markle is reported to

If you’re a bit nervous of public speaking, why not write down some bullet points on cue cards to help keep you on message. You can elaborate or you can edit yourself, depending on how you’re feeling on the day. It’s not essential but it is manners to wait until the other speeches have concluded before you step up to the mic and make your mark. Take note of what’s been said and try not to bore your guests by repeating it. A good opening would be to begin by telling your guests how happy you are to be taking this new journey with your partner. Thank them all for coming to help you celebrate, especially those who have travelled a long distance to be with you, etc. And don’t forget to name-check the cake maker, the readers, the wedding singers, the hairstylist/ make-up artist who made you look fabulous, and the room decorator…if they happen to be among your guests. Tell your parents how much you love and appreciate them and tell your new in-laws how much you’re looking forward to officially becoming part of their family. And…while you’re enjoying your moment in the spotlight, wrap it up by mentioning any special loved ones who’ve sadly passed on, but try not to dwell on this point too much in case you unintentionally upset anyone.

be planning to break with tradition and give a speech at her forthcoming wedding to Prince Harry…well big whoop! Irish brides have been breaking with tradition for decades. And so, if you’re a modern miss who’s planning to tie the knot this year, and wants to make sure her voice is heard on her big day, in order for you to make an impact, we’ve got a few guidelines you might like to follow.

Do not: Don’t drink too much alcohol before your speech; while it may steady your nerves it may also dull your inhibitions, allowing you to share an embarrassing piece of information that’s best kept to yourself. Keep it simple, and keep it clean. Don’t share a funny anecdote that may only be understood by a select few. To do so may result in an awkward silence and make some guests feel left out. Don’t start whinging; at best it’ll make your mascara run and ruin your make-up; at worst it’ll embarrass everyone; after all, nobody wants to see a grown woman in tears. If you find yourself getting weepy, take a moment or two to compose yourself, take a sip of water – this will do two things, it’ll give you a chance to get back on track and it’ll give your guests a chance to absorb what you’ve just said. Advertorial

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Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

P lanning your Wedding Day

Our top ďŹ ve tips for trimming that wedding guest list! ď&#x20AC;ź MIRIAM KERINS

ongratulations, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got everything

sorted, now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to get down to the nitty-gritty of planning the all-important (but argument-inducing) guest list; and I for one donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t envy you. You see, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re paying for the big day yourself, then of course you have the monopoly, but the second you put down a deposit with mammy and daddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s money, then Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m afraid youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve handed over at least half of your guest list privileges to them, the financial contributors, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gonna generate a headache or three. However, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to escalate into all-out war, this is meant to be a happy occasion after all, and we believe that with a bit of diplomacy and creativity, as well as round table talks, you can work through your guest list, arriving at a reasonable conclusion that suits everyone. With some tactical (and tactful) planning, research and creativity, you can figure out all of your wedding guest list challenges. Mind you, we have no solution for your workmate who disgracefully arrives in a floor-length white satin gown accessorised with a tiara; or your in-laws who rock up with their badly-behaved triplet toddlers when they knew you had a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;no kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; policy on your big day! Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what we do knowâ&#x20AC;Ś 1. The dream team: Forget about your budget and cut-off point, just for a laugh, make a list of your desired guests; you never know, you may not even hit your

limit, and if you do, you can always trim it back according to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;must haves.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2. The A Team: When did you last see them, socialise with them, speak with them on the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;phone? If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been more than a year, and you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t imagine seeing them for another year, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to delete. 3. The rellies: If theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re immediate family (and even if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stand them), they must make the cut and receive an invitation. 4. The colleagues: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m afraid itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all or nothing here. You cannot invite one or two from your office and ignore the rest. Unless one of your co-workers is your BFF, then you could make an exception. Of course if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having a big do, then you should always invite your boss. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a small gathering, as in close family only, you could get away with not inviting the man/woman who pays your wages. 5. The kids: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a firm believer in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;no kids policyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at weddings, but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s me. However if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going down that route, do make certain to alert parents by clearly marking all invitations with the names of adults only, and follow that up with a polite â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;phone call or a chat over a coffee in plenty of time to allow them make alternative babysitting arrangements. There should be no ambiguity when it comes to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;kids-or-no-kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rule, and if you feel an obstinate guest is likely to arrive with the sprogs, buggies, sterilisers, travel cots and car seats in tow, then grow a set and make that (diplomatic) call now!

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Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Caring For Your Loved Ones Community Employment vacancies RSG (County Roscommon Disability Support Group) currently has job vacancies throughout County Roscommon for Home Care Support Workers/Personal Assistants on their Community Employment Project for 19.5 hours per week. Full training will be provided

and there will be the opportunity to gain full-time work. RSG also has vacancies for various other positions on Community Employment (please contact RSG for further information or visit www.jobsireland.ie). RSG provides Support Services for people with physical

and or sensory disabilities and for Older Persons. For an application form and further details, please contact Bernie Connolly, Resource Centre, Derrane, Roscommon. Tel: 090-6625852 (ext.2); Fax: 090-6666060; email: ce@rsg.ie

Helping your loved one ease into their new care home environment  MIRIAM KERINS

If you’re facing the prospect of making the decision to move your beloved, elderly relative from their family home into a care or nursing home, we sincerely empathise because we would imagine you’re facing one of the toughest choices you’ll ever have to make. However, in order to try and help you to help them make that transition from their own familiar surroundings, friendly faces and regular routines into a totally alien, (and possibly frightening), unsettling situation, just that bit easier, we’ve put to-

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gether what we hope are some helpful tips. Chat with staff and care workers: Take your relative for a cup of tea to chat with the staff and find out about the care home’s routine. Make sure staff know your relative’s little quirks, likes and dislikes. For example, if they like to eat lunch in their room rather than in a dining room, if they don’t like certain foods, if they enjoy reading before they go to sleep, etc. You could, if you had the time, offer to volunteer a few hours a week and get involved in your relative’s new home’s social activities. Have a checklist: Make a list of questions, and important dos and don’ts. You want this transition to be a positive and happy experience for both of you, but mainly for your relative and if they aren’t one hundred per cent satisfied and content with their standard of care, follow procedure and make a complaint. If the situation that’s worrying you is not resolved immediately, (and it may be hygiene, their personal care procedure and quality, or indeed the staffs’ behaviour, etc.) then please make alternative arrangements for your relative. This may mean their immediate removal from the situation. Take a tour: Walk your relative around the garden, the public areas, the dining room and the manager’s office, etc., and make sure they have their bearings and don’t feel scared they may get lost in this new building that has now become their home. Visit when you say you will: Don’t let them down and stick to your visiting promises. In addition, take your relative out for a few hours or even take them home for an overnight stay so that they’ll get a change of scene and can be reassured that everything at home remains the same. Stay connected: Get your relative a mobile ‘phone and make sure they always have plenty of credit in the event they need to contact you in an emergency, or simply because they want to hear your reassuring voice. Above all: Keep the lines of communication open with both your relative and care staff. If you don’t have regular conversations with both, you’ll end up in a crisis situation resulting in a confused relative and a chaotic mess. Remember: No parent wants to burden their adult children, meaning they may hide certain issues and health concerns from them. However, if you keep talking, assure them you’re on their side and you’re working with them (not against them), they’ll be more likely to understand you (and the care staff) only have their wellbeing at heart.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Caring For Your Loved Ones

Lovin’ your later life! St. Francis Nursing Home  MIRIAM KERINS

s we get older, our

skin, bones and body shapes change, meaning just as we felt it was important to take care of ourselves in our earlier years, it’s possibly even more vital to have a health, wellness and beauty regime when we reach retirement age and beyond. And so, as we pile on the years and our bodies become more sensitive and need a little extra bit of TLC, (okay a lot of TLC), we thought we’d put together a few suggestions that may help our senior readers who’re lovin’ their later life but who just require a smidgen of inspiration regarding going that extra mile this spring. Take Dame Joan Collins for example, she’s 84 years young (apparently), yet she oozes that rare

goddess allure every time she appears in the media. According to an interview La Collins did with the Daily Express, she revealed her ‘go to’ beauty routine when reducing puffiness is to ‘soak cotton pads in a bowl of icy water and place them on your eyes for five to 10 minutes before getting ready.’ And when it comes to fashion, the gorgeous and glamorous veteran star refuses to hide under an old crocheted shawl, saying, ‘I think the High Street are the ones (shops) getting it right these days,’ and they are! We all know those lovely fashion boutiques dotted around County Roscommon and environs always stock those unique, one-off statement pieces that make you stand out from the crowd. Perhaps this is why the soap queen is loyal to the High Street, always epitomising a

glamourous and youthful outlook. Tinsel town’s golden boy Harrison Ford is 76 (apparently) yet he doesn’t have a beer belly now, does he? He doesn’t even have a ‘dad-bod.’ No, this A list actor who appears to be ageless, looks devilishly dashing and amazing. He’s a grandad with a buff bod who’s credited with not only doing most of his own movie stunts; he’s also teamed up with partner Calista Flockhart to launch an anti-aging skincare line that claims to ‘reduce wrinkles fast without any surgery or Botox.’ There ya are lads! In addition, to help adventurer Indiana Jones sustain that youthful physique, he has a personal trainer, and maybe it’s high time the seventysomething Roscommon seniors started taking a leaf out of Indy’s book,

especially as he says “I’m probably as fit, or possibly fitter, than I was 18 or 20 years ago.” Now while we are not suggesting anyone, whatever their age or fitness levels, starts morphing into Superman or Wonder Woman, we’re just throwing it out there that a bit of gentle exercise at the gym could do you the world of good in your autumn years. Now, we are not doctors, (or personal trainers), so please do always, in every instance, consult your healthcare professional before starting any new fitness, beauty or dietary routine. However, it is a fact that enjoying a good level of fitness and physical health is important when it comes to improving your personal quality of life; it also helps to promote your independence and adds years to your life expectancy.

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T. 094 965 9230 | E.: stfrancishomekilkerrin@eircom.net Should you require any further information regarding availability of rooms or Fair Deal assistance Contact: Martha on 087 969 5286 or Hilda on 086 6037434

Pictured at the Shannon Gaels Dinner Dance at the Bush Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon last Friday night were Roscommon manager Kevin McStay, County Board Secretary Brian Carroll and James Deane with the Nestor Cup.

Pictured at the Shannon Gaels Dinner Dance at the Bush Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon last Friday night was Roscommon manager Kevin McStay with the Shannon Gaels Ladies team and their management, Pat Leonard and Fergus O’Beirne. Kevin McStay was the guest of honour and presented league winners’ medals to the ladies senior team.

Shannon Gaels Dinner Dance Pictured at the Shannon Gaels Dinner Dance at the Bush Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon last Friday night were Colm Kelly, Roscommon manager Kevin McStay, and Dessie Beirne with the Nestor Cup.

Pictured at the Shannon Gaels Dinner Dance at the Bush Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon last Friday night were Patricia Beirne, Roscommon manager Kevin McStay, and Teresa Conlon with the Nestor Cup.

Pictured at the Shannon Gaels Dinner Dance at the Bush Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon last Friday night was Roscommon manager Kevin McStay with the Shannon Gaels intermediate team which won the Tansey Cup. Team management Tony Devlin, Joe O’Dowd, Aidan Filan and Larry O’Beirne are also in the picture.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Celebrating Valentine’s Day ...

Lanesboro St., Roscommon Tel: 090 66 30444

E’S DAY VALENTIN Surprise ! Somebody

www.futurefl wwfutureflowers.ie ow Find us on facebook

He loves me…he loves me not! Take our (just for fun) quiz!

s ’ e n i t n e l Va Da y

 MIRIAM KERINS

Shakespeare said…‘the course of true love never did run smooth.’ Well let’s be honest, it doesn’t now, does it! And, for any Shakespeare snobs (like me) who’re reading this, you’ll know the quote is from Act 1, Scene 1, said by Lysander to Hermia, in the Bard’s fabulous comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Therefore, if you want to find out if the course of your own true love is going to run smooth, or disastrously crash and burn, we suggest you take a look at our (just for fun) top ten guidelines, and decide for yourself if this Valentine’s Day will end in a happy and successful romance or a sad case of kick-in-the-gut rejection! First of all remember, he may be the shy type who’s not entirely comfortable dropping the L bomb fifty times a day, and, as actions speak louder than words, in order to know if he’s definitely your Mr Right, just ask yourself these following questions:

Is he okay with public displays of affection (PDAs) such as holding your hand, putting a protective arm around you, staying close to you to show he’s with you and unavailable to others? He loves you.

1. Does he send you a text each morning? Are you the first thing on his mind? He loves you.

2. Does he go out of his way and inconvenience himself just to make sure you’re happy and sorted? He loves you.

3. Does he make you his priority? He loves you.

4. Does he give you his undivided attention, so much so, everyone else around you is in no doubt you’re together? He loves you.

6. Does he check up on you several times a day? He’s a manipulative stalker…dump him! Only joking! When your partner wants to know if you got into work safely, how your day is going, how your work presentation went and how you’re feeling, etc., he loves you.

7. Does he keep you in the loop regarding his own plans? He loves you.

8. Does he value your opinion? He loves you.

9. Does he immediately ask you what’s wrong if you’re looking upset? He loves you.

10. Does he actually tune in and listen to what you’re saying? Really? No…really? Wow, he’s a keeper and…he loves you. If you’ve answered yes to all of the above… it’s highly likely you’re in the right relationship, (although we are no experts), but we congratulate you because your future looks like it’s going to be full of happiness and romance, and you’re going to have an amazing Valentine’s Day…you lucky sod!

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Celebrating Valentine’s Day ... Advertorial

Enjoy a Valentine’s dining experience in Abbey Hotel’s new-look restaurant

The same beautiful view but a stunning newly-refurbished restaurant is now open at the Abbey Hotel. Booking advised. Tel: 090-6626240.

Celebrate with your loved one this Valentine’s at the A Abbey Hotel Roscommon

Don’t forget Valentine’s Day is next Wednesday, the 14th of February. Why not book a surprise romantic dinner for your loved one at the newly-refurbished restaurant at the Abbey Hotel. All bookings will be entered into a free draw and one lucky couple will win a fabulous Wine & Chocolates Hamper to take home on the night. On Saturday last the four-week wait was finally over for customers of the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon as the big reveal of their newly-refurbished RAI award-winning restaurant took place. We are now taking bookings for Valentine’s Weekend, Communions, Confirmation parties, private functions and all special occasions. Tel: 090-6626240. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. T&C apply.

A special B&B book direct only offer of only €79 (for 2 people) is now available until March 29th and includes sparkling wine & chocolates with complimentary access to our pool and leisure facilities.

Bookings on 090 6626240

erite’s MarguHAIR SALON

St Valentine’s Day facts and ﬁgures With St. Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we have gathered some interesting facts about the special day: Many early Christian martyrs were called Valentine.

Look great for Valentine’s

OPENING HOURS: Wednesday: m 9.30am - 1.00p Thursday: m 0p 6.0 0am 9.3 Friday: m 0p 6.0 9.30am Saturday: m 0p 10.00am - 6.0

associated with love. Over 1 billion St. Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged each year. This makes St. Valentine’s Day the second largest card spending time of the year.

MAIN STREET, BALLYGAR

MOBILE:

086 0515212 2 TEL: 090 6624816

There are two Saints who are honoured on February 14th: Valentine of Rome was a priest in Rome who martyred in the year 269 B.C. and Valentine of Terni was a Bishop who martyred in the year 273 B.C.

There are 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate bought on St. Valentine’s Day each year.

Saint Valentine had no connection to the theme of love until Gregory Chaucer’s poem in the 14th Century. This poem referred to birds mating on St. Valentine’s Day and is believed to be the main reason St. Valentine’s Day is

198 million roses are produced each year for St. Valentine’s Day.

Guest House & Restaurant

73% of people who buy flowers on St. Valentine’s Day are men, while women buy 85% of other gifts on the day.

The Square, Roscommon. Tel. 090 66 65599

There are 220,000 proposals on average each year on St. Valentine’s Day.

JACKSON’S VALENTINE’S DAY MENU

3 course meal FOR p/p

€

With a Flute of Rose

STARTERS

MAIN COURSE

Chicken Satay

Thai Red Curry Chicken or Prawns

Strips of Chicken cooked in Sweet & Spicy Peanut Sauce

Homemade Golden Fried Garlic Mushrooms Served with mixed leaves & Garlic Aioli

Homemade Thai Fish Cakes Served with Sweet Chilli Sauce

Duck Spring Roll Served with Plum Sauce ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Served with Basmati Rice

Pan Fried Spring Chicken Served with Mushroom Sauce

Fresh grilled Sea Bass Served with roasted vegetables & white wine sauce

Jackson’s Towering Beef Burger Served with Side Salads, Chips & Onion Rings ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ DESSERTS

Sticky Toffee Pudding

090 6665599 jacksonguesthouse@gmail.com facebook.com/JacksonsGuesthouse www.jacksonsguesthouse.com

With warm Sticky Toffee Sauce

Warm Chocolate Brownie Served with Strawberry Ice Cream & Chocolate Sauce

Strawberry Cheesecake Served with Ice Cream

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Celebrating Valentine’s Day ...

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

Valentine’s Specials Continuing Valentine’s Specials - with more reductions for 1 more week

Ladies wear catering from sizes 10-24 Selection of Ladies Tops €10 ● Ladies Skirts €20 ● Ladies Jackets from €20 ● Rails of Ladies Knitwear from €10 3 PCE SUITS from €95 ●

KIDDIES WEAR Girls/Boys Communion wear from €20 Consisting of Boys 3 Pce Suits & 2 Pce Suits Girls Communion Dresses

Gifts/Accessories from €5

Gourmet gifts or pamper pressies…get it right this Valentine’s Day!  MIRIAM KERINS

As shop shelves across our lovely county are packed with beautiful heart-shaped cards, cuddly toys, boxes of choccies and bouquets of roses reminding us that Cupid is about to draw back his bow, we thought we’d give you a little heads-up when it comes to choosing that special gift for your loved one. You see, getting it right can often prove to be difficult, especially if you want to remain traditional and go the roses/choccies/giant card/jewellery route but also decide to inject a bit of innovation into this most romantic of days. We’ve got five novel suggestions we think you’ll like.

A watch: Now if he/she’s the sporty/techie type why not present them with a smartwatch? It’s the ultimate accessory for your smartphone because it’ll give you the time and deliver notifications straight to your wrist as well as running your apps! Perfect for the gal/guy on the go!

Gourmet gift basket: If you’ve only been dating a short time, and don’t want to look like a pervert, avoid sending revealing lingerie. Alternatively, a diamond ring/jewellery may make you look a tad over-keen. However, if he/she’s a foodie, then why not order a yummy, freshly-baked, bespoke cookie bouquet and have it delivered to his/her place of work. This will make you the fun, thinking outside of the box type of partner. Go for it!

Pamper pressie: Send him/her off on a tantalising journey of facials, manicures, pedicures, massages and total indulgence and tranquillity with a day at your local spa. Perfect!

Intoxicate him/her: Steady now, we’re suggesting a perfectly legal high here by giving the gift of a fun, bold and new fragrance. Something that’s different to her/his usual scent but something that’ll transform their mood, make them feel confident and sexy, and above all, make them feel special and loved, because after all, you’ve obviously put a lot of thought into this gift.

Tradition: Send the right message of love and romance with this tried and tested favourite, the traditional bouquet of flowers. Now, while we know a decent arrangement can be expensive at this time, it’s important that you send the right message and this means ordering them now from a local florist. This piece of planning will ensure your blooms are not only fresh and still in their prime but your stems will be pert and perky when your loved one receives them. After all, you want that arrangement to last at least a week and any professional florist will be able to offer you his/her expert advice regarding their care.

The Silver Eel Grange, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Telephone: (071) 9633299 www.silvereel.ie Food Served Friday 5.00 - 8.30 pm Saturday 12.00 - 8.30 pm Sunday 12.00 - 8.00 pm

Taking bookings for any functions - big or small

Ensuite Accommodation available

Bar open Monday to Thursday from 6pm Call 071 9632299 to book Christening, Communion or Confirmation

...and much more, check out: www.edenskinandlaser.ie RosMed Centre, Golf Links Road, Roscommon. Phone: +353 (0)90 6625904 • Mail: info@edenskinandlaser.ie

VALENTINE’S CELEBRATED in Silver Eel on Saturday 17th from 6pm to 9pm Specially selected Menu €30pp DJ Byrne playing Saturday 10th from 10pm - COME FOR FUN

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

WeekendPeople

Hamrock’s Glenamaddy Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel.: (090) 6663325

Players to stage The Lancers ‘The Good Father’ Saturday, 10th February:

The Brewery Market Square, Roscommon Music Saturday night, 10th February:

One of Ireland’s top singers and 2013 Glor Tire winner

Michael Regan

Glenamaddy Players will present ‘The Good Father’ by Christian O’Reilly at the Town Hall Theatre, Glenamaddy, as part of their run-up to this year’s Three-Act Drama Festival circuit (dates below). ‘The Good Father’ is a warm, tender and funny love story about two people from different social backgrounds. Jane, a lawyer, and Tim, a painter, meet at a New Year’s Eve party and reluctantly attempt a relationship after she becomes pregnant. Class looms as a theme. Jane and Tim’s romance is unlikely, as they practically speak different languages. But their status alters during the play. Jane is not truly as confident as she originally appears, and Tim has sturdy emotional layers underneath a self-deprecating exterior. His single mum has left him emotionally secure, while Jane’s middle-class parents have damaged her with their expectations. Sarcastic, resentful and still trying to

please her parents, Jane would prefer to go it alone but Tim’s open-hearted honesty and persistence gradually wears her down. Estranged from his own father, he is desperate to realise a dream he thought beyond him, to be a good father. As resistance turns to love, they begin to glimpse a bright future together, but Jane carries a secret that threatens to tear them apart. As ever, the cast and crew are determined to present the standard of professionalism our audience has come to expect over many years of drama tradition in Glenamaddy. The Glenamaddy Players’ production is directed by Coman Keaveny and will be performed at the Town Hall Theatre Glenamaddy on Saturday 10th, Sunday 11th, Saturday 17th and Wednesday 21st of February at 8 pm nightly. This is an excellent play which is not to be missed. For bookings, call 086-2045896.

Telephone: 090 6626225 Saturday 10th February:

Blues Confidential

Sunday 11th February:

Toby and the ghost * No Cover Charge, all gigs are at 10pm approx unless stated otherwise * Search for us on facebook: JJ-Harlows - The- Square-Roscommon-Town Michael Glavey’s supporters from Ballinlough pictured in Croke Park on Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox

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

Alex Fitzmaurice and Oisín Keavaney pictured supporting Michael Glavey’s in the All-Ireland IFC Club Final in Croke Park. Picture: Andrew Fox

Paudie Murphy, Jack Sullivan, Darragh Flynn and Niall Regan pictured supporting Michael Glavey’s in the AllIreland IFC Club Final in Croke Park. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

WeekendPeople

Pictured in Rockford’s on Saturday night last were Conor Downey and Cian Traynor.

Pictured in Rockford’s on Saturday night last were Marian Daire, Kevin Fitzpatrick and Orla Griffin.

Faces & Places

Rockford’s Photographs:

Andrew Fox Pictured in Rockford’s on Saturday night last were Bernadette Carberry and Aoife Collins.

Pictured in Rockford’s on Saturday night last were Nicole Dolan and Ciara Browne.

Pictured in Rockford’s on Saturday night last were David Carroll, Christen Dolan and Aaron Cribbin.

Pictured in Rockford’s on Saturday night last were Orla Slyman, Ciara Why, Emer Kelly and Lauren Byrne.

Pictured in Rockford’s on Saturday night last were Simone and Johnny.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

WeekendPeople

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

Legalised abortion is ‘state-sanctioned child abuse’ Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

Dear Editor, The Pro-Life Article in the Constitution which acknowledges the right to life of unborn children has saved at least 100,000 lives in the past 20 years. Just imagine every year the 8th Amendment has saved 5,000 lives equivalent to the population of Roscommon town. Now we have pro-abortion lobbyists and legislators who want to delete it. Why do they want to delete this highly successful lifesaving amendment? Is it not insane to propose to delete such a lifesaving law? Would they propose to delete the health & safety laws which save 40 lives per year? Since 1990, a raft of road safety and drink-driving laws have saved 300 lives per year. Will the legislators delete these laws? Furthermore, they even want to kill unborn babies diagnosed with a terminal illness. Since terminal illness is not a valid reason to justify the killing of born humans, it is not a valid reason to justify the killing of unborn humans. The Irish Constitution not only recognises the right to life of the innocent, it also recognises the right to life of the guilty as the Irish people put a constitutional ban on capital punishment in 2002. Every human being has fundamental rights which are theirs by nature, and which are not dependent on any outside source for validation. It is an injustice for any Court, Government or Referendum to remove the inalienable right to life from any section of the human family. It is time for the promoter of legalised abortion to realise that legalised abortion is, in fact, state-sanctioned child abuse. Yours sincerely, Kathleen Cummins ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Killing unborn children ‘should not even be up for discussion’ Dear Editor,

Lough Allen, Carrick-on-Shannon

I’m keeping my letter short to make the point that the issue of killing unborn children (incidentally, referred to by pro-abortionists as ‘being compassionate’) should not even be up for discussion. God’s Commandment clearly states ‘Thou shalt not kill’. This is concise and unambiguous and there is absolutely no room for manoeuvre. As for those who have had abortions and are repentant, God is all-merciful, but for those who shamelessly promote or support the brutal murder of unborn babies, I believe that they already have blood on their hands. Yours sincerely, Kevin Wynne

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

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

High-speed broadband is not a luxury, it’s a necessity! We will provide “next generation broadband to every home and business in the State…” they said! Sure it’ll be great… they said. There’ll be “broadband everywhere” by 2012… they said! Yeah, they said plenty; and much of it was a load of bulls**t! However, a bit of progress was made in 2016 when the list of bidders to provide broadband to rural Ireland was shortlisted to three: Enet, Siro and Eir, with Eir netting the contract, and, oh the excitement was almost palpable, readers; 85 per cent of us were on course to have high-speed broadband this year. So…what went wrong? Well basically Eir pulled our life support plug at the last minute citing “significant commercial issues and complexity within the tender process,” yada, yada, yada. To be honest I don’t care! What does concern me though is the fact that in 2018 we are still discussing this vital part of rural Ireland’s infrastructure, and, as Eir have now fecked it up for everyone we, the taxpayer, are left with just one bidder, Enet, ‘winning’ the contract. Yep, we’ve got Hobson’s choice! Now, I have to be honest, part

of me (only a small part) felt a bit sorry for Communications Minister Denis Naughten as he tried hard to sugar-coat the whole pile of poo, fumbling with his “shovels in the ground,” comment; hoping us poor saps would be gullible enough to swallow it. But come on Denis, you’re an intelligent man, face up to the facts, acknowledge our predicament and accept the situation for what it is! Rural Ireland has been abandoned once again, cast aside and treated like a humongous boil on the government’s ar*e, and your claims that “we are the global leaders” when it comes to rolling out broadband won’t wash as compensation for what could be interpreted as evidence of the State’s discrimination against those of us living in remote areas of Roscommon! Sure anyone can see, (given last week’s jailing of paedophile Matthew Horan), that horrifically, it appears some nine-yearolds in parts of this country have more access to high-speed broadband than adults living in Roscommon…and that’s a tragic fact. Now I know you’re frustrated Denis, I know you’re disappointed, and I know you desper-

ately wanted to bring high-speed broadband to rural Ireland, because you’re a good man. I would also imagine you’ve been dealing with (probable) veiled murmurings of intent to withdraw by Eir, so the situation must be extremely dificult for you and I empathise, I really do. However, I’m no applausegiving junkie, and I’m finding it hard to believe that Enet, who’re now in the driving seat, won’t decide to hike prices, with the

government (i.e. taxpayers) being asked to hawk the family silver at a knockdown price in order to get connected! Seriously readers, I think this whole kitchen sink drama (‘cos that’s where I get my best signal), is just the final step in our descent from highly important voters to people who just don’t matter. On the other hand, our highly capable Denis may just have another cunning plan hidden up his sleeve! Time will tell!

Thank you Paud – thank you readers With the increasing number of people using emails, (well those who have internet access), hand-written letter writers are a dying breed. However, there are definitely some beautiful letter and card writers in Roscommon; they’re

the ones, the loyal readers who take the time to put pen to paper and correspond with me, telling me how much they enjoy my column or appreciate a profile piece I’ve written on them following an interview; and I am always so grateful

to hear from you. Thank you, thank you, from the bottom of my heart. However, this week, when I dropped into the office, (I’m hardly ever there), I was given a letter, hand-delivered, if you will, by a reader, a gentleman called Mr. Paud Sexton, who wrote, among other lovely words, ‘I wouldn’t miss reading your musings every week for the world.’ Paud also sent me a beautiful, self-composed piece of prose which I’m going to frame and place on my wall…if that’s okay with you, Mr. Sexton. I’ve never met Paud, however, given his beautiful letter, given the fact he walked into the Roscommon People office to personally deliver it, it tells me he is the definition of an old-style gentleman living in a modern world, and that, readers, is a rarity.

I’ve come to learn a lot about people by the way they conduct themselves and how they behave, and Paud’s letter, and the way it was written with such flair of penmanship (or pen-personship, to allow the P.C. brigade to unclench), tells me he comes from an era of immaculately polished shoes, and where chivalry and good manners were the order of the day. An era where people found value in items according to their story, as opposed to their financial worth. I could be wrong, as I said I’ve never met Paud, but it’s my gut feeling, given his words, and his creative piece of prose, which I did ‘like’ very much, that Paud is clearly someone who showcases high principals and morals, and of course his taste in newspapers is impeccable, given he’s a loyal Roscommon People reader. Thank you Paud. xx

Property People Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

NEWS… & VIEWS Sale of former HSE ofﬁces agreed Hughes & Company are confirming that they have agreed the sale of the former HSE offices on the Lanesboro Road, Roscommon. The property was sold by private treaty last week.

Appeal for farms!

The Carolans Court development is located in a secluded corner of the grounds of Kilronan Castle Estate, on the banks of the enchanting Lough Meelagh

Affordable and on our doorstep… luxury homes in enchanting setting  PAUL HEALY

Imagine owning a townhouse/holiday home in the grounds of a majestic castle! Not only is it an option at a very affordable price, it’s also an option here in County Roscommon! Kilronan Castle, located just outside Ballyfarnon in North Roscommon, is one of the most celebrated and sought after venues in Ireland. The magical castle and grounds is the fabulous setting for the Carolans Court development, where there are now just three remaining residences available. No doubt reflecting the more testing economic climate of recent times, these delightful townhouses are very attractively priced. The Carolans Court development is located in a secluded corner of the grounds of Kilronan Castle Estate, on the banks of the enchanting Lough Meelagh.

Set on c. 40 acres featuring breathtaking scenery and with a world class health spa only a fiveminute stroll away, each spacious property has been carefully designed for modern-day living and comfort. Whether as an investment, a holiday home or for a weekend escape, you can indulge yourself in some of the most unspoilt countryside in Ireland, and without feeling isolated! There are just three remaining properties available at this exclusive development. These include a three-bedroomed residence available for €109,500 and a mid-terrace four-bedroomed residence for €125,000. Sale of a semi-detached showhouse has recently been agreed (for €135,000) and auctioneer David Diffley points out that this showhouse can be replicated in the ‘finish’ on other properties in the development.

Each spacious property overlooks rolling gardens which extend onto dozens of acres of manicured grounds and natural lakeside woodlands. The properties have many special features, including: Gas-fired central heating system; stateof-the-art fitted kitchen; feature fireplace; doubleglazed Scandinavian pine windows; hardwood front and back door; fitted wardrobes in two bedrooms; quality tiling in the bathroom and ensuite; pumped electric shower in en-suite. If you purchase one of these properties, you will receive two years’ free membership of Kilronan Castle’s world class leisure centre. Auctioneer David Diffley told People Property: “This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to purchase a piece of countryside bliss!” * To arrange a viewing, contact Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Property Partners Earley, Roscommon says they urgently require farms in the region to meet the needs of cash clients/disappointed underbidders. John Earley commented: “Following on from a number of successful farm sales in the area over the past number of weeks, we now require farmlands of all sizes acres in all areas. “We offer a comprehensive sales service with a one of the largest databases of customers in the region”. More information from Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579 (email jearley@ propertypartners.ie, or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.).

Two to view! Pat Hughes is inviting offers for a three-bedroomed bungalow in Kilrooskey and for a threebedroomed residence in Strokestown, amongst many more properties currently on his books! The bungalow at Ballagh, Kilrooskey is already attracting a lot of interest. While it needs to be modernised, it is very well located and has great potential. Meanwhile, at 14, Vesnoy, Strokestown, Hughes & Co. are offering a three-bedroomed residence which is finished to a high standard. For further information, contact the office on 0906627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers. com

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

PropertyPeople PSRA Licence No. 001481

We are now compiling our property listings for our forthcoming UK & USA exhibitions To have your property showcased to an extensive audience through our professional network, please contact one of our team in the strictest of confidence for a no obligation quotation.

LANDS TO LET/TO LEASE (New Lettings)

NEW TO THE MARKET

FORTHCOMING PROPERTY EXHIBITIONS

A MOST ATTRACTIVE 5 B/R RESIDENCE OF C. 2,550 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

TURPANE MORE, BALLYFORAN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Lands to let - c. 62 acres located at Mullymux & Rathconnor, Fourmilehouse from the 1st March 2018 until the 1st January 2019 with the option of c. 25 entitlements if desired. Enquiries invited. Lands to lease – c. 47 acres located at Cloondarragh, Ballymoe, Co. Galway with modern farmyard and with the benefit of entitlements and greening fees of approx €4,000 per annum. Term: say 5 years.

A luxury cut stone facade dormer style residence offered for sale in turn key condition throughout standing on a beautifully mature site area of c.0.66 of an acre. Option to purchase approx 7.66 acres of lands adjacent. The said property is finished to the highest of standard throughout with no expense having been spared on quality materials and workmanship. Located in a scenic residential area, close to Ballyforan and Four Roads villages, viewings are highly recommended by the auctioneers. Offers invited to sell.

Lands to lease – c. 39 acres in one or more lots located at Grange and Carrowntornan, Fourmilehouse, Roscommon with the option of entitlements and greening fee of approx €4,000 pa. Term: say 5 years. Final offers invited - c. 41 acres located at Cloonmurly, Kilteevan with the benefit of storage shed and hay shed. 5 year term. Final offers invited.

Lands on the books of Pat Hughes

Earley’s Sale of the week Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week pleased to advise that they have agreed the sale of the stunning showhouse property located at number 51, Castlemanor, Roscommon town for a “very satisfactory” price. John Earley commented: “We have had significant interest in the development with sale of the showhouse now having been agreed for a very satisfactory price. Two further properties are being developed out to a similar standard and we now invite immediate enquiries and all offers for same. “The Government’s ‘Help To Buy Scheme’ for 1st time buyers will give a rebate of income tax of 5% of the purchase price at Castlemanor”. The Castlemanor development offers a spacious residential location convenient to Roscommon town on the Racecourse Road. For further details, please contact John or David at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypart51, Castlemanor, Roscommon town ners.ie.

PSRA Licence No. 001350

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

www.propertypartners.ie

Auctioneer Pat Hughes of Hughes & Company have various lands for sale. At Moneen, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon they are offering circa five and a half acres of land with excellent road frontage and suitable for fill subject to planning permission being granted. Meanwhile, at Beechwood, Kilteevan, they have on offer circa 10 acres of land with excellent road frontage. These lands are located in one main block approximately three miles from Roscommon town on the main Lanesboro

●

to Roscommon Road. At Morganstown, Athleague, Hughes & Company have circa 53 acres of top quality land for sale with a range of out-offices, including horse stables and a sand arena. The lands are located approximately two miles from Athleague village on the main Four Roads to Roscommon Road. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Property Sales Lettings Valuations ●

●

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

www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

PROPERTY AUCTION FRIDAY 6TH APRIL 2018 INCLUDE YOUR PROPERTY IN THE UPCOMING AUCTION

FREE VALUATION

NO SALE, NO FEE!

CONTACT THE OFFICE TODAY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

• COTTAGES • RESIDENTIAL (new and second-hand) • COMMERCIAL • AGRICULTURAL LAND • BUILDING SITES

FINAL OFFERS INVITED 11 CASTLE MANOR, RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN

NEW TO THE MARKET DRINAGH, TARMONBARRY, CO. ROSCOMMON

All offers after €185,000

Price Region €130,000

• Attractive five-bedroom detached house with three bathrooms • Driveway kerbed and tarmacadamed • Within walking distance of Roscommon Town Centre • In excellent condition throughout • Overlooking green area • Excellent views of Roscommon Castle • All offers invited for immediate sale • Furniture and fittings can be included if desired

NEW TO THE MARKET GLENTAUN, BALLINASLOE, CO. ROSCOMMON

• Spacious five bedroom detached dormer residence c.2,851 sq.ft. • Being completed to builders finish • Works to commence in early February 2018 • Sought after area of Ballinasloe Town • Close to M6 motorway • Situated on an elevated site • Price available on request for bungalow only • Contact the office for further details on 09066 63700

• Prime new four bedroom bungalow c. 1,850 sq. ft • Completed to builders finish. • Located just off the Strokestown/ Tarmonbarry road • Excellent views of Sliabh Ban and the surrounding countryside. • Opportunity to complete to the purchasers own decorative taste. • Viewing highly recommended

LAND LETTING 2018 IS YOUR LAND MAKING YOU MONEY? We have farmers waiting to rent land and require a total of 5,000 acres • From 5 acres to 300 acres • All locations considered • Short or Long Term Contact us today for FULL PROFESSIONAL ADVICE PRIVACY GUARANTEED Call CONNAUGHTON AUCTIONEERS on 090-6663700 for a free valuation of your lands

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

PropertyPeople

NEW TO THE MARKET

BALLYGLASS EAST, LOUGHGLYNN, ROSCOMMON, F45 W71

Traditional stone cottage comprising of 3 rooms with kitchenette and wc. Externally, there is an adjoining fuel store offering obvious potential to extend dwelling. To the rear there is a two bay hay shed presented in excellent condition. Situated on the roadside of a quiet country road, the property benefits from its quiet and accessible location (Loughglynn Village 2 km). All offers now invited for immediate sale. Guide Price: €60,000

NEW TO THE MARKET

CURREENTURPAN, LOUGHGLYNN, ROSCOMMON

5.4 hectares (13.34 acres) of agricultural lands together with a derelict residential dwelling (Folio RN12044). The subject lands comprise 3 plots. Contact Seamus Carthy directly. Guide Price: €60,000

NEW TO THE MARKET

MULLEN, FRENCHPARK, ROSCOMMON, F45FX73

Upcoming REA Connaught Auction REA Seamus Carthy are hosting an REA Connaught Auction on the 28th of February 2018 (more details in future editions). There are a number of interesting properties already confirmed. They include a traditional detached twobedroomed country cottage with detached outbuilding on 0.18 hectares which is at Driney East, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon. It represents excellent value with a guide price of just €30,000.

Also for auction will be a quaint one-bedroomed cottage located at Buckhill, Fairymount. Guide price: €32,000. At Raheen, Elphin, Co. Roscommon and also for auction on the 28th is a threebedroomed traditional bungalow. Guide price: €23,000. For further information contact REA Seamus Carthy at 090-6630001 or email info@reacarthy.ie

REA Seamus Carthy’s countdown to New York REA Seamus Carthy continue their USA marketing campaign for 2018 with their upcoming property exhibition, taking place in Fitzpatrick Grand Central Hotel, 687 Lexington Avenue, New York on the 8th March 2018. This follows on from their property exhibitions in New York and Boston over the last year two years. Seamus Carthy of REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town confirms that demand from property buyers in the USA is consistently increasing with sales conducted through his office last year with buyers from New York and Boston. To register and showcase your property in their New York exhibition, contact Nuala Diffley at REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town on 090-6630001.

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

LANDS TO LET Circa 130 acres of land to let at Four Roads, Roscommon. Available in one or two lots to suit. ------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE 450 Bales of 2 year old Silage. Tulsk Area. ------------------------------------------------------------------------

FINAL OFFERS

F FINAL OF

ERS

Pat is confirming that they are now accepting final offers on an attractive bungalow at Ballagh, Kilrooskey. The residence stands on a small site located convenient to Schools, Church, Shop and Pub. Accommodation consists of a Sitting Room, Kitchen Cum Dining Room, 3 Bedrooms and a Bathroom. The Residence has the benefit of a Turf Shed to the rear. The Residence is selling to every offer in excess of €60,000. For further information or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com Seamus Carthy

‘People can’t get planning permission on their own land…this is very unfair’ A quality 4 bedroom detached bungalow built in 2004, situated on a 2.1 acre site with a large metal deck shed situated thereon. Presented in excellent condition, conveniently located to Frenchpark village (3km) and the N5 national road network connecting Dublin to Westport. Boasting dual road frontage and given the large 2.1 acre site, the property also offers further potential. Enquiries are now invited. Contact our office today 090 66 30001 Guide Price: €165,000

PRELIMINARY NOTICE

CLOONBONNIFFE, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

Detached 2/3 bedroom property cottage. The property comes with the benefit of 2 outbuildings and is situated 5km from Castlerea. For further information please contact REA Seamus Carthy.

ng properties rthy are bringi Ca us am Se . A RE the 8th March to New York on OW! R PROPERTY N REGISTER YOU email info@reacarthy.ie 01 or Call 090 663 00

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

off against tax on a rental income, it would encourage these owners to do up these dwellings and would certainly reduce this homeless situation that we have at the moment.

Five minutes

What do you enjoy most about your business? The buzz of meeting people, doing deals and seeing progress in our town and county.

with PAT HUGHES Pat, how long are you in the auctioneering business? This year we are celebrating 25 years in business. The company was originally set up in 1924 by Patrick Hughes & Patrick Naughton, Ballygar. In the mid-1940’s Hughes & Company took over the office from William Black, Roscommon and opened an office in Roscommon town under the management of the late Jimmy Finn. In 1947 the late Sean Naughton, Mount Talbot, took over the running of the company. In 1951 Hughes & Co. acquired the auctioneering business from Frank Maguire Auctioneers. On 19th of November 1993 I took over the company and opened our new offices at Abbey Street, Roscommon where we are today. How much and in what ways has the business changed or evolved over the years? There has been ups and downs. Property seemed to go in 7 to 10 year cycles over the years but from 1994 it seemed to be on an upward trend until the crash in 2008. We are now seeing an increase again but on a much slower scale in the west. Dublin

What is the outlook for 2018? I would be very hopeful that things will continue to improve and that banks will start to lend to young people who need to get on the property ladder.

Pat Hughes, Auctioneer, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

appears to be back where it was but it hasn’t passed the M50 as of yet!

in rural areas. This to me is very unfair and needs to be looked at.

How do you see the future for Roscommon town and county? Demand for property seems to be increasing over the last number of months. Already this year there seems to be more of a buzz. Houses are scarce in Roscommon as there is very little building going on at present. You can still buy a house cheaper than you can build and while this trend continues builders will not build. It is impossible for people to get planning permission on their own lands

Are there any steps you feel Government/local authorities could take to help your industry? I feel the Government should bring in a tax incentive for people with old and derelict houses to encourage them to do them up. The number of vacant and abandoned houses throughout the county is frightening. I think if there was an incentive for any money spent on these buildings – leaving them habitable – that could be written

Your farm machinery auctions are renowned! Will there be more this year? Any other auctions or big sales we need to keep an eye out for? There are a lot on enquiries again this year about our Machinery Auction. We are hoping to hold it in May. In August/September of this year we will be bringing one of the finest farms to come on the market in recent years to market. This is a 130-acre residential farm in Curraghboy village. All of the lands are of top quality. I expect this to draw huge interest due to its location and the quality of the land. At this stage we expect to have a number of other farms on the market in the coming months. Further details to follow in the near future.

Interview: Paul Healy

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

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

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

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

090 66 25818 086 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS ST. COMAN’S CLUB, ROSCOMMON Tuesday 1pm; Tuesday 9pm; Wednesday 1pm; Thursday 1pm; Thursday 9pm; Saturday 8.30pm; Sunday 12 noon

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

BOUNCING CASTLES

Gerrity Bouncy Castles

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

TELEPHONE:

087 4668675

BLOCK AND BRICKLAYING

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Experienced Brick/Blocklaying Gang Available for houses, extensions, sheds, walls, foundations etc...

Contact Kieran on

087 7157857 CAREER ADVICE 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.

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

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST For all foot ailments Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Complete Chimney Services

CHIMNEY CLEANING

• 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 Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone:

087 2798704

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

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

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

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

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

For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233

Foot Care Practitioner

• Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

MCFHP, MAFHP

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Mark Kilgallon B.Sc Podiatry (Hons) M.Ch.S.I. Department of Health Approved

EVERY FRIDAY St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment

085 1503353 086 8538404 Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

VHI and Laya Covered

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

COMPUTERS DC Computer Services Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

NO FIX NO FEE PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie p

DRIVING LESSONS

O TOW WITH LEARN T

SYL’s

School of Motoring

Have you a licence to tow a trailer? Car/Jeep & Trailer Training available SPECIAL RATES FOR BEGINNERS AND STUDENTS Gift vouchers available

Call (085) 1348779

Learn to drive with ....

Roscommon Driving School Telephone:

090 66 61102 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Tel: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012 This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING

• ROSCOMMON • CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

DENTAL

R.S.A. Approved Driving Instructors

Dental Design Studio

• Tuition in Car • Car Available for Tests Gift Vouchers – an ideal gift Tel. (094) 98 80281/ Mob. (087) 2031909

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

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

Henry Street Medical Centre Roscommon TELEPHONE:

090 66 65917 087 228 8780

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Classifieds FARMING  A B AT TO I R S E R V I 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  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/GATES

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

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

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

GATELY GARDENING

Tel: 087 2172281

FOR SALE  FOR SALE: New complete double divan bed including leather base and headboard, memory foam pocket sprung mattress. Still in packaging. Retail €950, will sell for €240 including free delivery. Tel: 086 4438919  FOR SALE: 2012 Renault Megane III Dynamique 1.5 Dci Diesel, 39,000km in immaculate condition, NCT for 2 years, genuine reason for selling. Tel: 086 1289065 or 086 8540056

KENNELS

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

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

087 2721193

HOLISTIC

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

• Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

Bernard Conroy Timber Clearance Ltd Tel: 087 2533101 Firewood For Sale Over 30 years in business

Garden Clearance Complete garden clearance services with debris disposed of. Safety certified and insured.

JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms

Find us on facebook

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

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

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon Telephone:

086 1930766 HEALTH & WELL-BEING

WALTER BEGLEY

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on: or Mobile:

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

087 9201818

Tel: 086 2437376

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

PAINTER & DECORATOR

087 2683079

Gift vouchers now available

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped. Comprehensive insurance cover. I.S.A. member.

PAINTING & DECORATING

090 6661635

PARKLAWN TREE SERVICES

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

●

Phone:

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

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD ●

Tree Services • Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured

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

www.parklawntreeservices.com

●

JOE HEALY

087 2860428

087 2346364 For all your fencing needs. Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

GARDENING

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage Appointments with Anne Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday. Molloy’s Pharmacy, The Harrison Centre, Roscommon

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

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

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 - Ante Natal Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Infant/Child Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED  TO LET: 3 bedroom bungalow, (detached house) Beechwood, 3 miles from Roscommon town, out Lanesboro Road, storage heating and stove. Tel: 087 2822534  TO RENT: 2 bed house for rent in Roscommon town, suit professionals. Tel: 086 3155329  TO RENT: 3 bed fully furnished house, 2.5 miles from Castlerea town, oil fired central heating and solid fuel. Tel: 086 3120158 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. Tel: 086 8212732

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Daire Markham for planning permission to construct a four bay single slatted shed with lie back and carryout all ancillary site works at Clydagh Upper Td, Ballinlough, 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 planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of € 20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Bridget McCullough, wish to apply for planning permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, treatment unit, percolation area and all associated site services in the townland of Clooncrim, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon. I also intend to apply for temporary use of a caravan/mobile house on the site during the construction of the proposed dwelling house. Signed: Bridget McCullough The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of € 20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

GOSPEL READING

Interested in reading the Gospel story together? Also weekly studies Sunday 7 pm in Hannon’s Hotel, Dublin Road, Roscommon For more information: 086 8489244

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Michael Morgan, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning to a) demolish existing back kitchen on the east elevation having a floor area of 5.87m2 and b) to erect extensions onto my existing dwelling house, a kitchen extension to the east elevation and a bedroom extension to the west elevation and all associated site works at Slieve & Corbally, Donamon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Lo-Homes Limited Tonamaddy, Creggs, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 090 6621941 Mobile: 086 8551835 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 a fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Adrian and Charmaine Kelly intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct single storey dwelling, domestic garage, fuel store and general store, proprietary effluent treatment system and percolation area, associated site works and services at Tromaun, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of € 20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

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

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, John McGloin intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to erect 4 bay slatted cattle shed with lay back area, associated site development works and services and permission for retention of existing agricultural sheds and stores on site at Corboley, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of € 20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect dwelling house, to install septic tank and percolation area and to construct ancillary site works at Newtown, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Brian Carroll. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Declan Healy for planning permission for the provision of a car wash facility incorporating an underground washdown separator, associated signage together with all necessary ancillary siteworks at Circular Road, Ballypheasan, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Dowd & Associates Ltd, Registered Building Surveyors Tel: (090) 6623417 Mob: 086-8546035. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

SITUATIONS VACANT  CHILD MINDER REQUIRED: To mind child in own home 1-2 days per week in Knockcroghery area. Box No: 1113 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon  CHILDMINDER REQUIRED IN BALLAGHADERREEN: Monday to Friday from 2.00 until 6.00/7.00. Must have own transport for school picks ups. Tel: 086 6026536 for more details  FIRST YEAR CARPENTRY APPRENTICE REQUIRED: Boyle area. Tel: 087 7632162  PERSON REQUIRED: For busy office in Roscommon town. Must have excellent typing skills with attention to detail, must be proficent with Microsoft Office and Excell. Tel: 090 6630545 between 11am and 3pm  LOOKING FOR CLEANING LADY: 3 times/week for 6 hours/week. Remuneration €75 per week. Location 10min outside Roosky. Must have own transport. Tel: 087 3542810

FULL TIME/PART TIME DENTAL NURSE REQUIRED For busy Roscommon Dental Practice. Candidate must have a positive attitude, motivated and work well as part of a team. Full training can be given. Please send CV with cover letter to eilmannion@gmail.com

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, APK Architects & Engineers are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Monika and Piotr Kawecki for planning permission for the following: 1) Demolish existing dwelling house and garage; 2) Construct replacement dwelling house, domestic garage and upgrade existing treatment plant with new proprietary treatment unit and percolation area together with all ancillary site works at Brackloon, Fuerty, Roscommon, F42YY43. Signed:

THE ROYAL INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS OF IRELAND REGISTERED PRACTICE Roscommon Office: 118 Abbeyville, Galway Road, Rocommon. M: 0862102190 E: adam@apk.ie The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

TOM KILDUFF CABS Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

KELLY’S EYE Taxi and Minibus hire.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

PHONE:

087 2727888

Call car direct

JOHN BEATTIE

(086) 2714879

Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

 GRINDS: Castlerea area. Leaving Certificate and Junior Certificate, Maths, French and Irish. Private tuition in your own home. Tel: 086 3282437

 FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Dry seasoned hardwood ash, beech, elm and whitethorn. Stored indoors. Tel: 086 2437376  TURF FOR SALE: Great February sale of last year’s dry turf/wood. Tel: 087 7462440

TUITION

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849

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

SPIRITUAL HEALING Paul Williams Shaman Spirit Guided, Tarot Readings, Angel Energy Healing, Experience Inner Peace. 25 yrs experience. Athlone 086 0822247 www.paulwilliams.ie.

KEANE OIL BOILERS • Servicing • Repairs • Efficiency Testing Printout • Oil Tank Installation • Oil Boiler Replacement ALL WORK GUARANTEED Fully qualified and insured O.F.T.E.C. Registered TELEPHONE:

087 9131664 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 www.appliance-repairs.ie

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

USEFUL SERVICES

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

 MATHEMATICS TUITION: Junior and Leaving Certificate, experienced education professional. One to One. Roscommon town. Please call or email for further information. Tel: 083 4843192 Email: mariag21eircom.net

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

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

 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, 1 bag 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

TUITION

LEAVING CERTIFICATE STUDENTS

– Contact –

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

POWER WASHING

Gallagher’s Power Washing Patio’s, Paths, Fencing, Decking, Shed’s Driveways, Concrete, Tarmac, Block Paving Call Pete:

087 4394142

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE 03/02/18 FIRST PRIZE €50: Julie Walsh c/o K. Finan SECOND PRIZE €25: Dina Flanagan c/o K. Hoare THIRD PRIZE €20: Frances Doolan c/o K. Finan 8 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH:

Alannah c/o Mary Mulhern Bernie Myles c/o K. Finan Veronica McManus c/o Breda Healy Hannah + Kay c/o K. Hoare Denis O’Shea, Abbeytown Aaron + Kay c/o K. Hoare Alannah c/o Mary Mulhern Dan + Tina c/o K. Hoare

 ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802  ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Safe electric registered. All work considered. No job too small. Phone Paul on 086 2553153 anytime or email: p0862553153@gmail.com  SHANE NAUGHTON ROOFING CONTRACTOR Roofing, slating, tiling, 1st and 2nd fixing and flooring. All aspects of carpentry and building undertaken. Tel: 086 3155329.

USEFUL SERVICES

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ...

WE DO ANYTHING From fitting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

CRASH REPAIRS

| Insurance Repairs | Restoration Work | Paint Repairs | Colour Matching | Panel Replacement | Valeting | And much more Rathra, Tibohine, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon T: 094 98 72870 M: 087 6077277 E: wreck.amended@yahoo.ie Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 6626752

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

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

WINDOWS/GLASS Upgrade your PVC Windows to

5 PROMOTERS PRIZES OF €5 EACH:

Kathleen Gordon Kathleen Finan Maura Quigley Tomas Hoare Kathleen Hoare Total Receipts: €246 Total Prizes: €200

A+ rated Windows Save € No interior Repairs Suitable for all types of Frames 64% more efficient than standard Double glazed units

TELEPHONE: 087 2608895

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

AtYourService CARPENTRY

Eugene Quinn Carpentry • First and Second Fix • Roofing • Timber Flooring • Dry Lining

CARPENTRY

Gary Jameson

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

2nd Fix Carpentry Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units

Tel: 086 3686669

• Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs

NO JOB TOO SMALL

• Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

086 0708833

Ronan Hegarty Bespoke Carpentry/Cabinets ● Kitchens ● Sliding Wardrobes ● Home Study ● Television Cabinets etc

ELITE CHIMNEY REPAIRS • Lining • Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

BLINDS

FARMING

Contact Ronan on 087 6035995 email: hegartybespokeprojects@gmail.com email: robedesign.ie@gmail.com Download our brochure on www.robedesign.ie Robe Design Showroom open 7 days a week

RECYCLING

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures Destruction Certs Issued ● Sale of Second Hand Parts ● Contracted to all Major Car Companies ● Farm Machinery, Old Gates ● Metals, Iron Baths ● Old Cooking Ranges ● Weighbridge on Site ● ●

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

INSTALLATION RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

C ASTLEREA ELV RECYCLING LTD., CLOONKEEN, CASTLEREA KEVIN & MARTINA KEENAN TEL: 094 96 21250 MOB: 086 2522231 Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON

Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

CLEANING

WINDOWS/DOORS

TARMACADAM

Donamon

Tarmacadam LTD Specialising in Kerbing, Tar and Chips and Tarmacadam. Machine or hand laid. All types of drainage/ septic tank upgrades and new percolation.

Contact (086) 4007158

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retroﬁt Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

BRENDAN DOOLIN

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

GLASS

Boyle Glass Ballinameen, Boyle,

Tel: 071 96 68368 - Stained Decorative

and Frosted Glass - Double Glazed Units - Bevelled Glass/ Mirrors - Glass Shelves/Table Tops - Painted Glass Splashbacks - Balcony Glass

- STOVE GLASS - Fire Rated Glass Find us on DoneDeal/boyleglass

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

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

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

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

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

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417 uPVC WINDOW AND DOOR PARTS NOW IN STOCK TO SUIT ALL BRANDS • Handles • Hinges • Locks • Letter Boxes • Double Glazed Units supplied and fitted Fully insured

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

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES ROSCOMMON, WEST of IRELAND and BEYOND!!

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892

House & Garden Maintenance

Alan Somers Cluain Árd, Ardsallaghmore, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 27970 Mobile: (086) 8161651 Email: aboutthehouse@imagine.ie

Powerwashing - House, Driveway, Roof Complete Painting Service DIY Solutions

Chimney Cleaning Service NOW AVAILABLE LIFE COACH

ROSCOMMON WINDOWS RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON 090 66 33026

TARMACADAM

CAROLINE BURKE COACHING

Career, Education and Personal Coaching Helping you to help yourself!

Gerry Monaghan

*CAREER: HELPING YOU TO GET THAT JOB!

TARMACADAM

CV UPDATING / INTERVIEW MASTERING / JOB SEARCH

CContact: GGerry M Monaghan h

SERVICES: • Tarmacadam • Kerbing • Patio • Domestic & Commercial TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE GOVERNMENT HRI SCHEME

Contact us for further information Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon T: 090 64 93386 M: 086 8207242 or Darren on 086 8972265

*EDUCATION: CHOOSING THE RIGHT COURSE! CAO APPLICATION / HELPING YOU TO MAKE BETTER MORE INFORMED COURSE CHOICES

*PERSONAL: CONFIDENCE/ASSERTIVENESS BUILDING! HELPING YOU TO LIVE A MORE BALANCED LIFE / DEALING WITH CHANGES IN PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES, E.G. RETIREMENT, NEW JOB, SEPARATION, STUCK IN A RUT ETC…..

For appointment call me on 086 8229606 OR email your enquiry to carolinebburke@gmail.com

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Classifieds

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

Appointments Ireland’s Leading Transport Training Company

Frenchpark & Districts Childcare Ltd offers a high quality, affordable child care service to the children and parents within the community and surrounding areas, catering for the disadvantaged and supporting social inclusion.

Childcare Supervisor (Maternity Leave) Overall Purpose of Job: Responsible for the coordination of the daily running of the centre in conjunction with the senior childcare practitioners in line with pre-school childcare regulations and the centre’s policies and procedures. The Childcare Supervisor is responsible for the supervision and development of staff within the centre. Essential Criteria • FETAC Level 6 or higher in Supervision in Childcare/ Management/ Human Resources • 3yrs Supervisory Experience • Excellent working knowledge of the childcare sector • Experience of working with outside agencies such as the pre-school inspection team, Roscommon County Childcare Committee, Early Childhood Ireland, VEC etc. Desirable Criteria • Experience in making funding applications • Knowledge of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016, Síolta and Aistear • Experience of working in partnership with parents • Excellent IT skills Please contact Mrs Breda Joyce on 094 9870111/086 3792575 or email info@fdcl.ie to request a detailed job description and person specification. Applicants should forward their CV with covering letter in support of their application either by post or email to: Mrs Breda Joyce, Manager, Frenchpark and Districts Childcare Ltd, Frenchpark, Co Roscommon. Email: info@fdcl.ie

Ballaghaderreen

Transport Management CPC

Are hiring a full time permanent position of

Galway - Friday 13th April Dublin (P/T) - Saturday 6th April Athlone - Saturday 14th April Dublin (F/T) - Wednesday 23rd May

Fruit and Veg charge hand responsible for the management of the fruit n veg department. Previous experience is an advantage, full training will be given. Please contact Box No: 1114 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Weekend & Full-Time Courses Start:

Tutor: Tony Hynes MBS, B.Comm, FCIPD, FCILT, FIITD 28 Years Delivering Transport Management CPC “Tony made the course very easy” - John O B “Outstanding course” - Laura C

DRIVER CPC Weekends - Weekdays - Evenings

Online booking 24/7 - www.cpc.ie Enquiries 1890 - 374837 087 - 6363003 info@cpc.ie

SEWING MACHINIST required for Roscommon based upholstery business Good rates and conditions for successful applicants Apply to: Roscommon Business Park, Racecourse Road, Roscommon. Tel./Fax: 086 3816286 / 090 66 30313

Part-Time Secretary

Email: gdupholstery@gmail.com

The successful candidate will be a motivated individual with excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Requirements: ● The applicant must be highly proficient in Microsoft Office; Word, Excel, Publisher ● Experience in an office role is essential ● The ability to multi-task ● Knowledge of general accounting procedures To apply, please send cover letter and CV to:

~~~~~~~~~~ Maquinista de costura necessário para o trabalho de estofamento baseado em roscommon Boas taxas e condições para candidatos bem-sucedidos

~~~~~~~~~~ Wymagany doświadczony mechanik do szycia Firma Upholstery z siedzibą w Roscommon dobre stawki i warunki dla wybranych kandydatów. ~~~~~~~~~~ Vajadzīgs šuvējs ar pieredzi mīksto mēbeļu pārvilkšana darbam Roscommon. Atbilstošiem pretendentiem solam labu apmaksu un labus darba apstākļus.

ROSCOMMON TOWN

Box No: 1115 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon by the 16th February.

Closing date for receipt of applications: Friday, 23rd February 2018 Garda vetting is a requirement of the post. Frenchpark and Districts Childcare Limited is an equal opportunities employer.

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. We cannot guarantee publication after this time.

ATHLEAGUE Are currently recruiting for an experienced

MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN To join our Maintenance team in our busy processing plant in Athleague. The successful candidate will have a relevant trade qualification and at least 1 year’s post qualification experience. The ideal candidate will have a background within a manufacturing/industrial business, preferably within the food or packaging industries but not essential. Main responsibilities will include: • Maintenance of the plant and equipment to optimum performance. • Being familiar with the daily production plan and work as part of the team. • Assisting the Maintenance Manager with the implementation of preventative maintenance programmes for all machines. • Documenting all aspects of maintenance work carried out and keeping management informed of potential issues. • And adhering to the company safety policies at all times. • The position is fulltime, flexi hours. Please note that this role is offered on a rotational morning/day shift basis, and candidates must be available to work a variety of shifts. Should you wish to apply for this role, please do so in writing to the: HR Department, Kepak Athleague, Athleague, Co. Roscommon, or email: claire.finneran@kepak.com. Closing date for applications: Wednesday, 14th February 2018

All Modules Available

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

The local paper! TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

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

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES TRIMBLE Thomas (Tommy)

HENNIGAN Anne (Nancy)

KELLY Frank

Cloonadra, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon. 3rd Anniversary - 6th February

Castletanna, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

Strokestown 14th February 2002

Until we meet again... Those special memories of you will always bring a smile. If only we could have you back for just a little while. Then we could sit and talk again, just like we used to do, you always meant so much to us and always will do too. The fact that you’re no longer here will always cause us pain, but you’re forever in our hearts, until we meet again.

Sadly missed by his wife Kathleen and family. First Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Sunday, 11th February at 11am.

KENNY Eamon Cloverhill, Roscommon

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

Always remembered by your loving wife Pauline and family and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 10th of February in Cloverhill Church at 11am.

McDERMOTT Pat Ardsallagh, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

Who died on the 14th January 2014 (Aged 92 years) R.I.P. We lost a mother with a heart of gold; How much we miss her can never be told. She shared our troubles and helped us along; If we follow in her footsteps We will never go wrong. She was a mother so very rare, Content in her home and always there. On earth, she toiled; in Heaven, she rests; God bless you Mother, You were one of the best. We miss you from your fireside chair, Your loving smile and gentle air, Your vacant place no-one can fill; We miss you Mother and always will.

In loving memory and sadly missed by her son, Tommy Joe. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 11th February at 11am in Four-Mile-House, Church.

KELLY Frank Mullymux, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

Remembered by Brid and family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Monday, 12th February at 8am.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”

Remember also his wonderful wife, Anne (nee McCrann) (2002). You are both still guiding your sons.

BEATTIE Eamonn Knockanyconnor, Lecarrow, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Eamonn who passed away on the 13th February 2016 Deep are the memories Precious they stay No passing of time Can take them away.

Always remembered by his wife Bridie, sons David, Ronan and Enda, daughters Geraldine, Fiona and Joanne, sons-in-law Michael and John, daughter-inlaw Nicola, grandchildren Matthew, Aoife, Mark, Katie and Jamie. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 11th February at 11.30am in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow.

In loving memory of Frank, who died on 21st January 2008 R.I.P.

In loving memory of

Silent memories keep us near, As time unfolds another year, Out of our lives, you may be gone But in our hearts, you still live on.

Convent Road, Roscommon Who died on 8th February 2000 (18th Anniversary)

Always remembered by your loving family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 10th February at 10am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. Forever in our hearts

Raise a glass and recall fond memories of a scholar, gentleman and father on this day.

MULHERN Tom

FLYNN Luke Ballyfeeney, Kilglass, Co Roscommon

In loving memory of Luke Flynn, Father, Grandfather, GreatGrandfather who died on the 12th February 2017. On this his First Anniversary his family wish to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised and supported us on the recent loss of our much-loved Dad. All those who sent Mass Cards, Mass Enrolments, floral tributes, message of sympathy, donations to Innis Ree Comfort fund and all those who called to the house and who travelled long distances to be with us. A special thanks to all our wonderful neighbours and friends who brought food and gifts and worked tirelessly in the house providing refreshments. Sincere thanks to the many Stewarts from our locality for managing traffic control and to Michael Coyle and his drivers Des and Joey for providing transport to the house to make everything run so smoothly. A big thank you to Luke’s Carer Bridgie McCormack for all her kindness over the years and to Innis Ree Lodge Nursing Home who cared for him so well in his final months. A sincere thanks to Fr. Kevin Fallon and all the Priests who concelebrated Luke’s Mass. Thanks to all who helped prepare the church with a special thanks to Rita for the beautiful floral arrangements. Thanks to Andrew, Eimear and Dympna for the beautiful singing and music in the Church. A special word of thanks to Aidan Tully, Undertakers, for the professional and sensitive manner in which the Funeral arrangements were directed and also to the gravediggers who prepared his final resting place. Thanks to Principal Catriona, Staff and all the Children of Ballyfeeney N.S. for providing a Guard of Honour for Luke. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually we hope this acknowledgment will be accepted by all as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Luke’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 11th February at 10.30am in Kilglass Church.

FALLON Ellen (Nellie) and Johnny Muckinagh, Ballygar (18th and 16th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of Nellie, who passed away on the 21st September 2000 and Johnny, who passed away on the 21st January 2002 Forever in our thoughts and prayers.

Your loving sons Tommy, John, Joe and families. Anniversary Mass on Friday, 9th February in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar at 7.30pm.

KEENAN Patrick

CUNNIFFE Sr Maria Goretti

Ballymacfrane, Donamon

Convent of Mercy, Castlerea

GRADY Patrick Carranure Lower, St. John’s, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon

The family of the late Patrick Grady who died on the 25th June 2017 wish to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with them in their recent sad loss of Patrick. To all those who travelled long distances, sent Mass Cards, Wreaths and sympathy cards a sincere thanks. To all who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial a sincere thanks. To the staff of St. Coman’s Ward at Roscommon University Hospital a special word of thanks for their kindness and care, they gave to Patrick and his family during Patrick’s final days. To the staff in Portincula Hospital, Ballinasloe both in the emergency unit and St. Joseph’s Ward a sincere thanks. To John Coffey, Tom Smyth Undertakers and the gravediggers a sincere thanks for all their help and support. To all the neighbours and friends who visited Patrick’s wife (Anne May) at that difficult time, thanks for the support. To Father Milton and Fr. Lavin and the choir who did a great job at short notice, thank you. And to everyone who supported us in any way, a sincere thanks. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

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The years are quickly passing Though still we can’t forget For in the hearts that love him His memory lingers yet.

Sadly missed Ann and family.

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

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Remembered by Nancy and family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 11th February at 9.30am in Clooneycolgan Church.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Classifieds

SportsExtra

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

Horses for Courses

PLANNINGS EXTRA

by Tom Red

WARD John James Cornaveagh, Creggs, Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

In loving memory of John James Ward who passed away on 12th February 2014 We hold you close within our hearts, And there you shall remain, To walk with us throughout our lives, Until we meet again.

Sadly missed by his son Seamus; daughter Annette and son-in-law Seamus. ~~~~~~~~~~ How I wish I could say, I’ll go and see my Grandad today, To hear his voice, to see his smile, To sit and talk with him a while. To have him here the same old way, Would be my greatest wish today.

Always loved by your grandchildren, Aidan, Amanda and Laura. Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday, 10th February at 7pm in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet.

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. A.M.K. UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. A.M.K.

MULLARKEY Christina (Chrissie) Tonebane, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

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

Always in our thoughts and sadly missed by her family and friends. Anniversary Mass will be offered for Christina, John and deceased members of the Mullarkey family on Sunday 11th February 2018 in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish at 11am.

THANKSGIVINGS NOVENA TO ST. MARTHA Oh Saint Martha, I resort to thee and to thy petition and faith. I offer up to thee this light which I shall burn every Tuesday for nine Tuesdays. Comfort me in all my difficulties through the great favour thou didst enjoy when our Saviour lodged in thy house. I beseech thee to have definite pity in regards to the favour I ask. Interceed for my family that we may always be provided for in all our necessities. I ask thee St. Martha to overcome the dragon, which thou didst cast at thy feet. Say one Our Father and Three Hail Mary’s. Light a candle every Tuesday and the above prayer made know with the intention of spreading devotion to St. Martha. This Miraculous Saint grants everything before the five days are ended, no matter how difficult. S.C. UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. A.M.K.

COSTELLO Mary Coolfree, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

They say that times a healer But as the time goes on, We seem to find it just as hard To face the fact you’ve gone. Sunday it’s the Anniversary Of the day you went away, And Believe me when I say: You’ll never be forgotten. Every year I’ll shed a tear, And wish you were still here.

Lovingly remembered by husband Henry and family. Anniversary Mass is Sunday, 11th February at 11am in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell. Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Brosna Investments Ltd for Planning Permission for the following alterations to planning permissions previously granted under PD/05/1768, PD/07/1350, PD/08/1001 and PD/08/172 respectively:- A revised sub-division of units; Additional external signage; Removal of exit onto outdoor area previously described as an ‘outdoor garden centre’ and provision of 5m by 10m external plant area with all associated site works at Roscommon Retail Park, Circular Road, Ballypheasan Townland, Co. Roscommon. Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 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 a fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for retention permission on behalf of Mel Hand to retain an oil interceptor and concrete apron and full planning permission for an oil depot for the storage and parking of trucks consisting of the installation of 4 no. bunded oil storage tanks ancillary buildings and associated siteworks at Loughlackagh, Ballydangan, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Castle St., Roscommon. Phone: (087) 2222874 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 and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Racing in Ireland today in in Co Tipperary at Thurles off at 2.30 pm. Tomorrow’s meeting is on the all-weather at Dundalk, stalls opening for the first at 5.30 pm. Saturday sees the first of 2 days weekend racing in Co. Kildare at the punters graveyard, Naas, tapes away for the first at 2 pm and on Sunday at Punchestown first race at 12.20 pm featuring the €100,000 3m 4f Grand National Trial. The going is expected to be soft on chase course, soft to heavy on hurdle and bumper course at Thurles, soft to heavy, soft in places, at Naas and soft to heavy at Punchestown with standard going at Dundalk.

Leopardstown On Saturday punters got off to a very poor start as Joseph O’Brien trained 25/1 complete outsider, Tower Bridge, got up in the shadow of the post to pip Jessica Harrington’s Jetz by a head with Carter McKay 2½l away in 3rd. Harrington got ample compensation in the Champion Hurdle as Supasundae accounted for the odds-on Faugheen and Mick Jazz by 2¼l and 4¾l. Footpad lived up to the odds-on in the Grade 1 Novice Chase and Min in the Grade 2 chase won at 11/8 favourite. WP Mullins completed the hat trick in the Grade 2 bumper as son Patrick steered home the favourite Blackbow. On Sunday Joseph O’Brien again supplied a complete outsider as Edwulf, ridden by crack amateur Derek O’Connor won the Irish Gold Cup by a neck from Gigginstown’s Outlander with Djakadam 10l further back in 3rd. O’Connor had earlier finished 3rd in the 4-Y-O Maiden in Ballinaboola. The Spring Juvenile Hurdle was won by WP Mullins’ Mr Adjudicator with Gavin Cromwell’s unbeaten Espoir D’allen only 4th. The Deloitte Novice Hurdle went to Samcro and the Flogas Novice chase was won by the favourite Monalee. Defi Du Seuil and Espoir D’allen are still undergoing tests after very disappointing runs in Leopardstown.

General News English teenager James Bowen, found guilty of hitting Out Sam with excessive force in the Thyestes Chase, could not be sanctioned on the day because he had already left the course. Bowen, a minor, was accompanied from England by his mother on the day and they had to catch

a return flight home. After the race, IHRB veterinary officer Lynn Hillier observed Bowen’s mount had whip marks and that they were still evident an hour later. Bowen, who won the Welsh Grand National on Raz de Maree, was in Ireland to ride 2 horses for Gordon Elliott and had been unable to wait for the enquiry. How long after the race was the enquiry into Bowen’s actions called and had he already left the racecourse? At Tuesday’s appeals hearing the committee noted Bowen’s perfectly plausible explanation for missing the inquiry, but still imposed the ban, to be served on February 21st. This seems to be another example of the old boys throwing their weight about without the chance of being taken on and must pose the question would the same thing happen if one of our senior jockeys, of which there are quite a few, had to exempt themselves from an enquiry because they had a flight to catch to fulfil a riding engagement in England? Brazilian jockey 56-year-old Jorge Ricardo finally equalled the world record of 12,844 career winners on Monday in Rio de Janeiro. An American jockey Russell Baze, joint holder, retired in June 2016. Ricardo will return to his base in Buenos Aires where he hopes to regain a record he forfeited four years ago having come through serious illness and injury.

Point to Point View Saturday racing in the north is at Kirkistown on the Ards Peninsula off at 1 pm. There are three meeting in the south this weekend on Sunday with racing at Oldtown in north Co. Dublin, racing also taking place at Moig South outside Askeaton in Co. Limerick and at Knockanard near Fermoy in Cork. Oldtown races at 12 pm and the other 3 are scheduled to start an hour later at 1 pm. The weather is having a major impact on fixtures this season and Kilworth and Araglen Harriers point-to-point fixture on Sunday, 11th March will now be run at Ballyarthur, Carrignagroghra near Fermoy, Co. Cork. The East Clare Harriers point-topoint on Sunday, 25th February and the Limerick Foxhounds Kilmallock pointto-point on Sunday, 8th April have both been cancelled and the Co. Limerick Foxhounds Athlacca point-to-point fixture on Sunday, 6th May has been brought forward to Sunday, 8th April.

BUCCANEERS RFC Buccs edged by Terenure Despite putting in a brave and sustained effort, Buccaneers just could not hold on for a priceless Ulster Bank League Division 1A win when they were overhauled by Terenure College in an intense battle at Dubarry Park on Saturday. The spirited Pirates were exhilarating in the opening half hour but their depleted squad could not maintain their exciting attacking play against more seasoned opponents who slowly but surely reeled in a 20-3 halftime deficit to edge an absorbing contest 24-20.

Castlebar put to the sword The performance of Buccaneers Women’s team was the one shining light of the dismal results of the weekend. Their energetic and enterprising display against Castlebar earned them a richly merited 22-19 Connacht Women’s League victory at Dubarry Park on Sunday.

U-20s taught a lesson Buccaneers U-20s resources were stretched to the limit for the visit of JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier 2 leaders Maynooth University/Barnhall to Dubarry Park on Sunday. The visitors, who comfortably won this division last season, were much too strong as they ran out 53-7 victors.

Monivea too strong Buccaneers Seconds conceded home advantage to Monivea in this Connacht Junior Plate semi-final in which they fielded a team featuring multiple changes. It all came home to roost with a resounding 63-17 defeat at the Castle Grounds. Adding to the embarrassment, this match also doubled as a league fixture and thus the struggling Monivea side were thrilled, not only with their performance on the day, but the clear-cut victory. Harry Hughes scored two of Buccs tries, one of which was converted, while Trevor Thompson notched the third.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Sports People

Pride of the Parish Brave Glavey’s fall at ﬁnal hurdle Conor Hussey leads Michael Glavey’s out onto the pitch ahead of the All-Ireland Club Intermediate Football Final against Moy Tír na nÓg at Croke Park last Saturday. Match report and reaction on pages 52 and 53. Pic: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Glavey’s can be proud of All-Ireland journey I saw the devastation on the faces of the Michael Glavey’s players and management out on the field in the immediate aftermath of last Saturday’s All-Ireland final but when the pain begins to ease as the week goes on, they will realise what they have achieved for their club, their families, their parish and their county. I want to state clearly first of all that Moy were the better football team and deserved to win the game, but their two best players, Colm and Seán Kavanagh, and particularly Seán, had a major influence on the game and it was not all by their excellent play. They were in the referee’s ear non-stop

Around the divisions… Elsewhere in the leagues at the weekend there were some very interesting results. Galway are blazing a trail in Division One with two great wins. Damien Comer and Shane Walsh are shooting the lights out for Kevin Walsh’s men. It would be wise not to get too carried away with league form. In Roscommon we remember how excited we were when we won a few games in Division One a few years ago. I only saw the highlights of the games at the weekend but Kerry’s young team were very impressive against Mayo and the Dubs were outstanding (again) against Tyrone in Omagh. In Roscommon’s division, it would appear that Louth and Clare are odds-on for relegation. Both sides were well beaten again at the weekend and they will do well to avoid the trap door to Division Three.

and it was a major factor in the harsh sending-off of Caoileann Fitzmaurice. I thought that Brendan Cawley gave any marginal decision to Moy and it frustrated the Glavey’s players throughout. But it was not the reason that Glavey’s lost. Moy were a better team and they played the more direct football. To score a goal after only 30 seconds gave them a dream start and it was all over at half-time. You knew it was not going to be Glavey’s’ day when one of their main men, Cathal Heneghan, had to go off injured after only 20 minutes. But all credit to Glavey’s; they threw the kitchen sink at Moy in the last

20 minutes and when the gap went down to four there was a fleeting moment when we questioned whether a miracle could happen. But in fairness to the Tyrone side, they had done enough to win it. Glavey’s must build on this magnificent campaign now and I expect that they will be a factor in this year’s senior championship. It has been a great journey in Roscommon, in Connacht and to the AllIreland series. There are great people in the Glavey’s club on and off the field and I thank them sincerely for their co-operation and kindness over the past few months. It’s a pity that it didn’t end in glory but the memories will always be there.

Conor Hussey wins possession for Michael Glavey’s under the watchful eye of match referee Brendan Cawley during last Saturday’s All-Ireland Club Intermediate Final at Croke Park. Picture: Andrew Fox

A memorable comeback in Thurles! I don’t know how many national league games that I have been at involving Roscommon footballers. It may even be more than a thousand, and I can seldom, if ever, remember a comeback the likes of what we saw in Semple Stadium last Sunday. With six minutes to go Tipperary were cruising. They had scored three goals and nine points and could have scored at least three more goals. Roscommon were on the rack and looking like they would be returning with only one league point after two games and any hope of promotion well and truly gone. But you have to credit the players for staying at it and playing to the end. In contrast to last week, the subs made a big difference this time around and the game was pulled out of the fire but Roscommon have some big problems to iron out. They are giving the ball away time after time and they are also vulnerable when a team runs straight at them down the centre. But it is a great sign of the morale within the group that they could get a win out of this game and these two points will give the whole group a huge boost.

A home game against Down is next on Sunday and it is reasonable to expect that Roscommon can win that encounter. If they were to get two points there, five points out of six would be a mighty return going into a mini-break. Sean Mullooly will almost certainly be out for the Down game and he will be a big loss. But Roscommon have a strong panel now and they should be able to cope with the loss. This is a very competitive division and Down will not be easy to beat but in Hyde Park Roscommon should be good enough to get the two points. We are still struggling at midfield and the search goes on for the right combination. Now Gary Patterson, Caoileann Fitzmaurice and Conor Hussey will be available for selection which is a boost. Roscommon will need them all. Just a few words about Semple Stadium, which is a credit to Tipperary County Board. It shows what can be done in terms of facilities for spectators, the players and even the media. Not a lot of major work would transform Dr Hyde Park into something comparable.

A Croke Park mental block? Michael Glavey’s captain Conor Hussey made a number of very interesting comments in the wake of Glavey’s’ loss to Moy on Saturday. He reckons that teams from Roscommon and the west (with the exception of St. Brigid’s in 2013) have a mental block about playing big games in Croke Park. It is something that is worth exploring in more detail and I intend to do that later in the year.

February 6th marks the 60th anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster which claimed the lives of eight members of the Manchester United football team.

60 years on from Munich air disaster This week is the 60th anniversary of the Munich air disaster that claimed the lives of eight Manchester United players and three staff including 21-year-old Dubliner, Liam Whelan, who was one of the finest young

players in the English Football League at the time. I listened to an excellent documentary at the weekend about the events of that day and it must have been a horrific experience especially for those who survived.

Ireland stay on course for ‘Slam

Johnny Sexton’s 42-metre drop goal kept Ireland on track in Paris.

Ray Houghton’s goal against England, Seamus Darby’s goal for Offaly against Kerry, Padraig Harrington winning the British Open are all iconic moments in Irish sport over the years and now we have another one to add to the list, Johnny Sexton’s dropgoal against France. I only saw the final ten minutes of the game as I was in Croke Park at the Glavey’s game but I saw the best ten minutes! That the team were able to go through 41 phases

and manoeuvre Sexton into a scoring position was something to behold but he still had to score the kick on a wet and horrible day when he was unsure of his footing and had to cope with the wind as well. It was an extraordinary kick by any yardstick. It was a great way to win any match but a horrible way to lose one. Ireland are still alive in the championship and a Gland Slam attempt is still on, but only just! They played poorly for a

lot of the game as far as I can make out. This weekend, Joe Schmidt will get a chance to try a few of his squad players against Italy. There will be a huge clamour for Jordan Larmour to get a starting jersey and this might be the perfect game to introduce the young star to international rugby. With Joe Schmidt in charge I don’t think there will be any complacency about the Italian game and Ireland should win with a fair bit to spare.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

36 SportsPeople

Creggs RFC Report

Roscommon People Friday 03 March 2017

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs beat Corinthians in Connacht Cup Senior Rugby Connacht Junior Cup Quarter-Final: Corinthians 0 Creggs 44. Creggs booked their semi-final place with an easy win over Corinthians in Galway last Sunday. The tie was over as a contest by half-time with Creggs 32-0 ahead. Leftwinger Chris Duignan opened the scoring with a try after seven minutes and that was quickly followed by prop Aidan Leech’s tenth minute try which was converted by Mark Brandon. Brandon then added a penalty on 28 minutes to leave the visitors 15-0 ahead. Immediately after Brandon’s penalty, Creggs ended the contest as they swept up the field with right-winger Luke Meehan crossing near the posts for a well-worked try converted by Brandon. Two more tries quickly followed, from Mike Blighe and Kevin Brandon, to leave the game beyond Corinthians by the break. Half-time subs, Shane Purcell and Ryan Horan, combined to send Horan over after 70 minutes, Purcell added the conversion before flanker Alan Brandon completed the scoring with a try on the stroke of full-time.

Creggs are drawn to play Sligo in the semi-final on Sunday, March 11th, the other semi-final to be contested between Ballina and Connemara. This weekend the team takes a break before league action resumes away to Ballinrobe on Sunday, February 18th. Creggs Seconds’ recent good run continued with a narrow 8-3 win over Claremorris in last Sunday’s Connacht Junior 2 League fixture at The Green. Creggs dominated the early exchanges and went ahead with a well-struck penalty by out-half Ger Heneghan after twelve minutes. Shortly afterwards, Heneghan executed a fine cross-field kick which paved the way for full-back Michael Holland to touch down for a try in the left corner. Claremorris narrowed the gap to 8-3 midway through the second half with a penalty after Creggs were caught offside in midfield. Creggs finished strongly to close out the game but Claremorris battled right to the end and deserve great credit for their contribution to this lively encounter. Creggs face a difficult game away to Oughterard on Sunday but this ever-

improving squad can look forward to the game with confidence.

Youth Rugby Creggs U-13s play two rescheduled league games this week, Claremorris at 7 pm tonight (Thursday) in Creggs and Ballina next Sunday at 1 pm also at home. U-12 players are reminded that if they do not play for the U-12s in Mini Rugby, they are not eligible to play at any time for the U-13s. Creggs U-13s have been drawn away to Corinthians RFC in the Connacht U-13 Cup on Saturday, February 24th. Connacht U-14 A League Final: Corinthians 32 Creggs 10. Creggs played Corinthians in the U-14 league final last Saturday in Corrib RFC grounds in Headford but found the Galway outfit too strong for them on the day. Corinthians couldn’t believe their luck when they scored almost directly from the kick-off and after that Creggs were chasing the game. Creggs’ only first half score game from a try from Ben Johnson after good work from Edimar Fimho, DJ Hession and Michael McAteer but they found

themselves 22-5 down at half-time. Creggs began the second half well and scored through Ben Johnson again to leave the score 22-10 but two very late tries for Corinthians put a seal on the result and they were deserved winners on the day. Creggs will play Oughterard on February 17th in round one of the Connacht U-14 Cup. Creggs U-15s continue their preparations for their Connacht Cup campaign, which gets underway at home against Claremorris on February 24th. Training continues every Thursday at 7 pm in AstroTurf in Roscommon. Connacht U-16 A League Semi-Final: Ballinasloe 7 Creggs 5. A very brave performance by the U-16s on Friday night in Ballinasloe fell just short. The half-time score of 0-0 wasn’t a fair reflection of either side’s play and the second half continued to be a very even contest. Ballinasloe got a bit of luck to get their score when a poor kick wasn’t dealt with by the Creggs defence and a good offload led to a try under the posts which they converted for a 7-0 lead. Creggs then played their best rugby of the match and

Action from Creggs Seconds win over Claremorris in the Connacht Junior 2 League.

a good long pass by Mark Purcell released Aaron Lyons who offloaded off the floor to Cian Glennon who looked like he would score but was halted by a lastditch tackle. Creggs continued to attack and even managed to get over the line but the referee adjudged that the ball had been knocked forward. Creggs got themselves back in the game with ten minutes left when from a scrum on the 22, Jack Tucker picked and after further carries from Luke Divilly and Conor McNulty, Adam

Donnelly went over near the corner. Creggs couldn’t make further progress on the scoreboard but the lads can be very proud of their league campaign and while they have a tough cup draw they won’t fear anyone if they get the bit of luck they deserve. Creggs U-18.5s will defend their Connacht U-18 A League title against a strong Buccaneers side next Saturday evening in Ballinasloe. Creggs finished level on points with Buccaneers but had a superior score dif-

ference while Creggs also defeated Buccs in Athlone back in October in Round 4 of the league. Creggs have also drawn Connemara RFC in the last 16 of the Connacht U-18.5s Cup. This game is down for Creggs on Sunday, February 18th.

Mini Rugby Creggs Minis had a big turnout for training last Saturday morning in Creggs. Next Saturday, Creggs Minis will travel to Monivea RFC for a blitz with a 10.30 am kick-off

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

Dooner’s weekend predictions Ballinasloe Town were left bitterly disappointed following their defeat in the Connacht Cup last weekend while St. Peter’s sent shockwaves through the Premier Division with their 5-1 demolition of Boyle Celtic. This weekend, there’s an allRoscommon tie in the Connacht Cup while there promises to be fireworks in Division Two as Rahara Rovers entertain Cam Celtic.

Friday 9th February Skyvalley Rovers v Ballinasloe Town. 7.30 pm Ballinasloe to bounce back. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town Killeen Sportsgrounds Division Two Boyle Celtic B v Cloonfad United B. 8 pm There’s only one winner here. Prediction: Boyle Celtic B

Saturday, 10th February Norio’s Takeaway Division One Ballinasloe Town B v Ahascragh

United. 7.45 pm The hosts can put pressure on Kilkerrin ahead their trip to Dunmore. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town B Killeen Sportsgrounds Division Two Castlerea Celtic B v Skyvalley Rovers B. 7.45 pm The hoops will be more confident of taking three points. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic B

Sunday, 11th February TP Brennan Connacht Cup Round 4 (2 pm) St. Peter’s FC v Moore United The hosts look unstoppable at the moment. Prediction: St. Peter’s FC Boyle Celtic v St. Bernard’s Celtic will be hurting after last weekend. Prediction: Boyle Celtic Herald Premier Division Dysart FC v Ballymoe FC. 11 am Ballymoe back in form? Prediction: Ballymoe FC Ballaghaderreen FC v St. John’s

Athletic. 2 pm The visitors will be hoping to push on. Prediction: St. John’s Athletic Norio’s Takeaway Division One (2 pm) CP Ajax v Hodson Bay Athletic Hodson Bay can complete the double. Prediction: Hodson Bay Athletic Dunmore Town v Kilkerrin United Kilkerrin will need to win to stay top. Prediction: Kilkerrin United Killeen Sportsgrounds Division Two (2 pm) Moylough ’79 v Roscommon United The league leaders can take a massive step towards promotion this weekend but the visitors don’t usually play ball when it comes to predictions! Prediction: Moylough ‘79 Rahara Rovers v Cam Celtic A potential game of the weekend contender. Prediction: Draw

Soccer Results The Herald Premier Division St. Peter’s 5 Boyle Celtic 1 Cloonfad United 2 Ballymoe FC 5 Dysart FC 0 Castlerea Celtic 1 Skyvalley Rovers 0 Moore United 2 St. John’s Athletic 2 Shiven Rovers 1 Norio’s Takeaway Division One Dunmore Town 3 Strokestown United 1 Hodson Bay Athletic 2 Ballinasloe Town B 1 Kilkerrin United 2 Lough Harps 0 Killeen Sportsgrounds Division Two Cam Celtic 3 Roscommon United 3 Moylough ’79 v Rahara Rovers, postponed. Shiven Rovers B v Boyle Celtic B, postponed. Glen Celtic v Castlerea Celtic B, postponed. TP Brennan Connacht Junior Cup Round 3 Renmore 2 Ballinasloe Town 1

Convent bow out as Thurles progress FAI Schools Senior Girls All-Ireland Semi-Final

CONVENT OF MERCY, ROSCOMMON

PRESENTATION SECONDARY SCHOOL THURLES 2 A goal in each half was enough for Presentation SS, Thurles to see off Convent of Mercy, Roscommon in the Bank of Ireland FAI Schools Senior Girls National Cup Semi-Final last Thursday. Casey Hennessy netted after just 12 minutes following some superb work by Emma O’Sullivan. The Convent’s Jillian Banahan came agonisingly close to an equaliser ten minutes later but her effort went just wide. The Thurles girls were dangerous on the counter attack throughout and this led to their second goal. Aoibheann Clancy hit a long ball over the top for Lauren McCormack to chase and she made no mistake firing past Kelly in the Convent goal to seal the win. The Thurles side will now meet Moville Community College in this season’s decider on Wednesday, February 21st at 1 pm at Home Farm FC. Convent of Mercy: Marie Kelly, Amy Curley (Captain), Kate McPhilips, Niamh Fitzgerald, Ellen Irwin, Ciara Corcoran, Sarah Scally, Aine Griffin, Aisling Hanly, Savannah Cassidy, Jillian Banahan. Subs: Ciara Martin for Griffin (57), Enya Neacy for Banahan (70), Reece Higgins, Chloe McDonnell, Courtney Kelly.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

@dan_dooner

A weekend of magic moments THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner “Incroyable! Quel matchwinner! Quel matchwinner!” The French commentator could barely believe what he was seeing as Johnny Sexton dropped the ball over the French posts from all of 42 metres. It was a moment that will surely feature in the next edition of Ireland’s Greatest Sporting Moments. Johnny’s drop goal was indeed incredible but while it clinched a rare victory for Ireland in Paris, there was another pivotal moment, which in time may be forgotten about as the video of the YouTube videos of the match-winning kick are edited. With the clock 27 seconds red, Sexton dropped the ball onto his wand-like right foot and delivered a perfectly measured crossfield kick into the safe hands of Keith Earls. Suddenly, and after 23 phases

of stalemate, Ireland found themselves in French territory, and while there were hard yards still to be won, Sexton had put Les Bleus on the back foot. Incroyable indeed! It wasn’t the only display of guts in a clutch situation last weekend, however. On Sunday in Thurles, Donie Smith did his claims for a starting berth no harm with a sideline kick Maurice Fitzgerald would have been proud of, at a time when Roscommon were edging ahead in stoppage time. A few hours later in Minnesota, Philadelphia Eagles Quarter-Back, Nick Foles, called for a “Philly Special” and became the first QB in history to throw for and catch a touchdown in the Super Bowl. A trick play in the biggest game of the year against one of the best teams in modern history? No wonder they

People’s champion of the week

Fiona Tully had another busy weekend. Not only was she in Croke Park to collect the ‘Young Female Handballer of the Year’ award at last Saturday’s Handball All-Star Awards, she was also in action in Kingscourt, Co. Cavan where she won the 40x20 3rd Level Colleges Ladies Open Singles.

In the sporting diary .... Course for new referees The course for new referees for football and hurling commences this evening (Thursday) at 8 pm in the County Board Office, Castlerea Road, Roscommon town. Clubs who have not put names forward yet are advised to do so immediately to the Referee Administrator, Haulie Beirne (086-8293845).

A1 Darts this Saturday The annual A1 Singles Tournament will take place this Saturday (10th) in Spell’s of Ballaghaderreen. Names by 4.30 pm with games at 5 pm. €5 entry for youths, €10 for adults. Money in/Money out plus generous top up from A1 Roofing Ltd. All welcome to a great day of darts!

were flipping cars in the City of Brotherly Love last Sunday night!

Sometimes drills and playbooks will only get you so far and then it’s

up to the players to come good at vital moments. Paris, Thurles and Minne-

sota each had a sprinkling of magic last weekend and Roscommon and Ireland

will be hoping for more of the same over the next few months.

tain’s Drive-in also took place last weekend. This was followed by a 3-person scramble. The front 7 winners were: Mary Mullen, Gertie Spillane and Frank Mullen while the back 7 winners were Claire Keane, Michael Keane and JF Hanley. Round 1 of Boyle’s Spring League teed off last week. Currently in first place are Brendan Gaffney, Vincent Egan and Moira Egan on 60.5 while in second position are Charlie O’Donnell, Ted Hester and Michael Rushe on 60.6! Captains Terry Canning

and Marie Hanmore-Cawley will get the 2018 golfing season off to its official start on February 25th. To Athlone and news that the 2018 Captain’s DriveIn will take place on Sunday, March 4th. On the course, Finbar Jordan claimed last weekend’s gent’s competition with 32 points. Meanwhile, D O’Donoghue claimed the AWGS on February 1st with 27 points and Kay Delaney was victorious in the 12-hole stableford with a score of 23 points.

The sporting brief Handball

Darts

Golf

Tully triumphs!

Youths make ﬁnal

Halliday of a lifetime!

The Roscommon ‘A’ Youths enjoyed a very impressive West Coast Challenge last Saturday in Co. Mayo. Beating Mayo A (41) and Donegal A (3-2) en route to the final, the Rossies were unfortunately beaten 3-1 by Donegal B as they missed out on the title. The men’s county team, captained by Wayne Harries, opened their tournament with a 7-5 win over Galway in Round 1 before beating Mayo B 8-4 in Round 2. A convincing 9-3 victory over Sligo B in Round 3 set-up a quarterfinal showdown against Sligo. Unfortunately, the Sligo B side proved too strong for the Rossies and they advanced to the semifinal following a 7-3 win. Roscommon will now compete in the annual Pete Donlon Cup against Ballymahon and District Darts League on Sunday, February 18th in Hannon’s Hotel ahead of the INDO All-Ireland Inter-Counties on the weekend of February 23rd in Ennis.

We tee-off this week’s round-up in Roscommon where Jack Halliday was awarded honorary life membership for his years of sterling service to Roscommon Golf Club. Jack has been has been a continuous member of the club since the mid-60s, has served on numerous committees and has held the posts of president and captain. The President’s and Cap-

Fiona Tully had a busy Saturday last weekend as she claimed yet another All-Ireland title in Cavan before making an appearance at the Handball AllStar Awards in Croke Park later that evening (see page 2). Representing DCU in Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Tully added the 40x20 3rd Level Colleges Ladies Open Singles to the doubles equivalent she had won before Christmas. Tully was in fine form and overcame UL’s Doireann Murphy 21-6, 21-8 in the quarter-finals before beating long time rival, Elise McCrory of University of Jordanstown, 21-16, 21-5 in the last four. Ciara Mahon of Trinity College Dublin was to provide opposition in the final but the St. Coman’s star triumphed 21-19, 2110 to take yet another AllIreland title on her way to a memorable weekend. Following her latest victory, Fiona will now most likely be top seed and favoured to take the upcoming World Collegiate Ladies Open title in the United States.

Lady Captain Geraldine Hoban, Captain Charlie McDonnell, and President Phelim Henry pictured with Jack Halliday (second from right) who was granted Honorary Life Membership at Roscommon Golf Club last weekend following years of sterling service. Congrats Jack!

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

SportsPeople

BREAKING BALL Hurlers still unbeaten after Monaghan draw Allianz National Hurling League Division 3A (Round 2) MONAGHAN

0-16

ROSCOMMON

1-13

On a bright but cold day in Inniskeen, the Roscommon hurlers battled back to ensure a share of the spoils with their Monaghan counterparts. After an impressive performance in the opening game against Louth, Roscommon were hoping for a repeat performance against Monaghan and it was a well-contested game. Monaghan were slightly the better side in the opening half with Fergal Rafter on target with frees but Daniel Glynn and Cillian Egan were also impressive for Roscommon and by half-time the score was

Ladies refereeing course The rearranged Referee 1 course takes place this Saturday in Hannon’s Hotel and it is open to registration. Please contact the Ladies County Board with any questions regarding training secretary. roscommon@lgfa. ie or other queries regarding our games in the county.

Monaghan 0-10 Roscommon 0-7. Eamon Flanagan found the back of the net to leave a single point between the teams early in the second half before Daniel Glynn equalised from a free on 42 minutes. It was score for score for much of the second half with the sides level four times. On 58 minutes, Roscommon were dealt a blow when Naos Connaughton was sent off for an off the ball altercation. With the sides level, Roscommon attacked late in the game and as they advanced and

The Roscommon hurling team which drew with Monaghan last weekend in Allianz NHL Division 3A.

looked likely to score, the referee blew the final whistle much to the annoyance of the Roscommon players and management. On a day when Roscommon never really got go-

ing, they fought hard to earn a draw. The focus now switches to the home game against Longford on Sunday week in round three. Monaghan: P Bermingham; J Guinan, K Cawley,

B Flanagan; N Garland, P Finnegan, M Murphy; M Treanor (0-4), P Treanor (0-1); F Rafter (0-6, 5 frees), A Kenny (0-2), C Flynn (0-1); C Boyle, C Power, B McGuigan (02). Subs used: C McNally

Short passes…

for Boyle, B Connor for B Flanagan, P McKenna for C Power. Roscommon: J Keane; A Moore, P Kellehan, M Beirne; S Curley (01), P Kenny, W Boyle; K Hardiman (0-1), C The St. Brigid’s U-14 girls who won the County Feile Final last Sunday pictured at the Gerry O’Malley statue in Brideswell.

Glavey’s Chairman says thanks Their All-Ireland Club adventure may have come to an end against Moy of Tyrone in Croke Park last Saturday but Michael Glavey’s GAA Club will never forget the support and well wishes from right across the county and beyond, according to club chairman, Gerry Coffey. “The result didn’t go the way we wanted last Saturday but we enjoyed the journey and what was a defining day

for our club at Croke Park. “On behalf of Michael Glavey’s, I just want to say a big thank you to all the clubs in Roscommon and elsewhere who sent texts, messages on social media and emails and put up signs. “I also want to thank all of our loyal supporters, the sponsors who came on board ahead of last Saturday’s final and the many businesses who offered support and put signs up on the way to

Dublin. “Thanks also to all Michael Glavey’s club officers and in particular our club secretary, Valerie Murray who took care of all the paperwork”. Mr Coffey said the club was extremely grateful for all the support and for the touching messages from fellow Roscommon clubs following their wonderful run to last Saturday’s AllIreland Club Intermediate Final.

Kelly; D Glynn (0-9, 8 frees), E Flanagan (1-0), G Keenan; R Fallon, N Connaughton, C Egan (0-2). Subs: D Heavey for C Kelly, J Murray for Fallon, J Brennan for Flanagan.

Brigid’s set for Féile St. Brigid’s U-14 Ladies will represent Co. Roscommon in the All-Ireland Féile Championships this summer after they won the county Féile last Sunday. The Kiltoom girls overcame Roscommon Gaels 6-5 to 3-5 in the semi-final before beating Clann na nGael 3-7 to 1-4 in the final.

Clinical Down dent Ladies’ promotion bid LIDL Ladies National Football League Division 3 (Round 2) DOWN

5-6

ROSCOMMON

2-9

Despite a wonderful start to their league campaign a week ago, Roscommon’s promotion hopes were dealt a blow last Sunday when they suffered a six point defeat to Down in Pairc Tomás Ruséil, Downpatrick. Three goals in

the space of five minutes were to prove costly for the visitors. Roscommon started well and led by 1-2 to no score by the sixth minute. Rebecca Finan (1-1) and Jenny Higgins with a point were on the scoresheet before

six minutes of madness undone all of their hard work. Jess Foy opened the Down account after seven minutes and one minute later they were awarded a penalty when Natasha Ferris was brought down in the small square. Foy slotted the ball under Helena Cummins in the Roscommon goal. Natasha Ferris then struck two goals in quick succession, both coming from a mix-up in the Roscommon defence

to leave the home side leading by double scores (3-1 to 1-2) at the quarter hour mark. Roscommon responded however and finished the half strongly, scoring 1-4 to Down’s two points to go into the break all square 2-6 to 3-3. Rebecca Finan (1-2) once again leading the charge with further points from Sheila Brady and Rachel Fitzmaurice. Jess Foy took centre stage on the resumption, opening the scoring with

a wonderful point on the run before Foy crushed any hope of a Roscommon comeback on fifty minutes when she converted yet another penalty past Cummins. The Rossies never gave up and responded with points from Niamh Feeney and Aoife Gavin before Louise Duffy stretched the hosts’ lead once more. The visitors pressed forward to get something from the game but unfortunately this left gaps at

the back and the Mourne ladies got in for their fifth goal which was rough justice on the Roscommon ladies who now face Meath at Dr Hyde Park this Sunday. Roscommon: Helena Cummins, Honor Ennis, Amanda McLoone, Rachel Brady, Aishling McAuliffe, Sinéad Kenny (C), Róisín Wynne, Jenny Higgins (0-1), Laura Fleming (0-1), Rachel Fitzmaurice (01), Jenny Downey, Niamh Feeney (0-1), Sheila

Brady (0-1), Rebecca Finan (2-3), Sinead Farrell. Subs used: Shannon Dowd, Aoife Gavin (01) Louise Brady, Sarah Scally. Down: Aishling Burns, Laura Morgan, Orla Boyle (C), Aoibheann McCarville, Adair Trainor, Róisín Tormey, Chara Laverty, Kate McKay, Clara Mulvenna (0-1), Grainne McClean, Louise Duffy (0-2), Aoife Keown, Jess Foy (3-2, 2 penalties), Natasha Ferris (2-1), Sorcha McCartan.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

GAA PEOPLE Your weekend starts here Brilliant, belligerent Cavanagh wins the day  DAN DOONER

Love him or loathe him, Seán Cavanagh is an unapologetic thorn in the side. As well as being a supremely gifted footballer, he is also crown prince of the ‘dark arts’ and it was a concoction of these two personas that powered Moy Tír na nÓg over the line against a shell-shocked Michael Glavey’s in Croke Park last Saturday afternoon. As Conor Hussey alluded to in his post-match comments, headquarters can be a cold and brutal place for Roscommon teams even at the height of summer. Cavanagh himself could tell you that. He pounded the turf last Saturday as if trying to sweat the memory of last August’s demolition at the hands of the Dubs from every fibre of his being. He controlled the game at times…

“

in more ways than one. Referee Brendan Cawley was swayed by the Tyrone legend’s presence and Caoileann Fitzmaurice was ordered to take a long, lonely walk back to the dressing room. It was a harsh lesson but one Caoileann will do well to learn in order to compete with the Cavanaghs of this world. It would be harsh to describe Moy’s victory as ‘typical Tyrone’; their first half performance was full of direct, attacking vigour after all. However, once on top they bullied and harassed and staggered Glavey’s’ attempts to play their way back into contention. Calls went their way and so did the hop of the ball on a couple of occasions. Therefore, Glavey’s second half resistance was all the more remarkable. The mighty men from west Roscom-

I don’t expect there will be much in the game again next week or indeed in any of the games that we have left. That’s the nature of Division Two. All the teams are of a similar standard so we have plenty of work to do”. – Roscommon manager Kevin McStay on the race for promotion

Elsewhere in Division Two…

 SEAMUS DUKE

Looking ahead to this weekend’s action, Roscommon can take a big step on the road to promotion if they beat Down at Dr Hyde Park. Elsewhere, there’s a top of the table clash at Kingspan Breffni Park between Roscommon’s fellow table-toppers Cavan and Meath while Tipperary will be looking to bounce back down in Ennis.

Cavan v Meath on Saturday night at Kingspan Breffni Park at 7 pm Both sides are joint top of the table along with Roscommon. Cavan scored 3-17 last Sunday against Louth while Meath scored 0-21 against Clare. There is always great rivalry when these two clash and I am giving Meath a hesitant

mon left it all out on the hallowed turf as they scraped and clawed some respectability onto the hi-tech scoreboard. Andy Glennon was immense but he had an indefatigable support cast and the backing of hundreds of dreamers in the stands. In the end, it wasn’t enough to cause more Croker heartbreak for Cavanagh and Co. but pride had been well and truly restored following a first half to forget. Maybe Conor Hussey’s right, maybe there is something in the water in west Roscommon and teams from this neck of woods struggle on the big stage. Maybe. One thing is for sure though; Glavey’s showed plenty of bottle when all seemed hopelessly lost last Saturday.

Seán Cavanagh consoles Andy Glennon after the final whistle in Croke Park last Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox

“The future looks bright for Glavey’s”  SEAMUS DUKE

Paul Earley was impressed by Michael Glavey’s’ second half fight-back last Saturday against Moy Tír na nÓg and believes the future is bright for Iain Daly’s men as they prepare for life in

the senior ranks once again. “It was an amazing fight-back in the second half. Sometimes when everything is against a team they start to play football and play with abandon and that’s what they did and for a moment we were saying maybe there was

vote to edge a close contest in front of the TV cameras. Prediction: Meath

Cork v Louth on Sunday at Pairc Uí Rinn at 2 pm Cork got back on track in Newry last weekend and should to be too strong for Louth who look out of their depth in this division. Prediction: Cork

Clare v Tipperary on Sunday at Cusack Park at 2 pm Tipp will be determined to get back on track after they had two league points snatched from under their noses by Roscommon on Sunday. Clare have been poor so far and Tipp have the firepower to take the brace of points. Prediction: Tipperary

Paul Earley and his daughter Leah pictured following Roscommon’s win over Tipperary in Thurles last Sunday. (Michael Glavey’s GAA)

a chance but they needed a goal and it wasn’t to be. “When Moy got four or five points ahead it was always going to be difficult to claw back the deficit. In hindsight, the early goal was a killer and I have to say I was disappointed at some of the decisions of the referee. None of the marginal decisions went our way. “Glavey’s are not a dirty team, they play football all the time, yet they ended up with five yellow cards and a red but the better team won the match. Losing Cathal Heneghan was a huge blow but Glavey’s have to be really proud of the way they responded in the second half. “They came to within two scores (four points) and I loved to see what Iain (Daly) did at half-time. He put Gary Patterson up front. It was a statement of intent that they were going to give it everything and they did. They attacked and it was great to see. “The key for Glavey’s now it to build on this. Iain Daly has done a great job with the team and they have shown their ability to win big games under pressure. The future looks bright for Glavey’s,” he concluded.

Hussey: ‘It’s all a learning curve’  SEAMUS DUKE

Michael Glavey’s captain Conor Hussey admitted that Moy Tír na nÓg were the better side last Saturday but rued his side’s failure to fire in the opening half. “I’m distraught to be honest. I don’t know if there is something in the water in Roscommon and down the west but the Tyrone boys seemed to be more up for it today. A lot of it is in the head.

They didn’t shy away from the battle and it took us such a long time to get into the game. It was over by the time we really got going. “I don’t think they are that far ahead of us to be honest but it is something that happens to Roscommon teams and Glavey’s today but it’s all a learning curve,” he said. Hussey was less than impressed with some of the decisions that went Moy’s

way but insisted that they didn’t alter the result. “I thought the referee listened to everything their big players said to him. What Colm and Sean (Kavanagh) said was what happened but listen, the referee did not lose the game for us today. Moy were the better team and deserved to win. We have a lot to learn but we are not finished yet by a long way”. Looking ahead to the rest of the year,

the Glavey’s captain was optimistic about the return to senior ranks. “We have the senior championship to look forward to and that’s where we can prove ourselves. But looking back at Fuerty and Croan’s and ourselves, Roscommon teams with the exception of Brigid’s, don’t seem to be able to deliver on the big stage. It happens to the county team too and that will have to change.

“We have no complaints at all. We threw the kitchen sink at them in the second half I thought Shane O’Malley was fantastic and James Brennan when he came on was fantastic too. Maybe we should have pushed forward more in the first half and it was hard to see that early goal going in. But we will go home now and lick our wounds and we will be back for the senior championship,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Roscommon People Friday 03 March 2017 36 All-Ireland Intermediate Club Final: Moy Tír na nÓg (Tyrone) 1-10 Michael Glavey’s 0-7

Gutsy Glavey’s go down ﬁghting The Verdict Seamus Duke

Conor Hussey evades a number of tackles as he carries possession forward for Michael Glavey’s. Picture: Andrew Fox

Teams and Scorers Moy: Nathan Brady; Patrick Mackle, Tomas McNicholl, Thomas Conlon; Mark Gribben, Niall Conlon, Eunan Deeney (0-1, ’45); Colm Cavanagh, Tom Loughran (1-0); Declan Conroy, Harry Loughran (0-1), Adam Currie; Ryan Coleman (0-2), Sean Kavanagh (0-5, 4 frees), Emmett Raftery. Subs: Conall Duffy (0-1) for Conroy (51), Aaron Donaghy for Raftery, Karol McQuiade for Conroy (61), Diarmuid McKeown for Currie (61), Kris Kavanagh for Deeney (61), Ryan O’Neill for Conlon (64).

Michael Glavey’s: Darren O’Malley; Neil Morris. Shane O’Malley, Liam Cregg; Gary Patterson, Conor Hussey, David Frayne; Caoileann Fitzmaurice, John Finan; Tom Murphy, Stephen Comer (0-1), Dylan Ruane; Sean Burke, Andrew Glennon (0-6, 5 frees), Cathal Heneghan. Subs: Tiernan Murphy for Heneghan (19), James Brennan for Ruane (h/t), Sean Markham for Cregg (60). Referee: Brendan Cawley (Kildare)

The Michael Glavey’s team that contested the All-Ireland Club Intermediate Football Final. Picture: Andrew Fox

Michael Glavey’s’ magnificent run in the AIB All-Ireland Intermediate Club Championship came to a disappointing end when they were deservedly beaten by Moy Tír na nÓg in the final at Croke Park last Saturday. The damage was done in the opening half when the Cavanagh brothers-inspired Tyrone men stamped their authority on the game and by the mid-way point they led by a handsome seven points (1-5 to 0-1). But, faced with a large deficit, and then the prospect of having to play most of the second half with 14 men following the harsh sending off of midfielder Caoileann Fitzmaurice, Iain Daly’s men dug in and produced a great last 20 minutes to put a lot of respectability on the scoreboard. It also gave a chance for the huge Glavey’s following to vent their feelings on a bitterly cold day in Croke Park. Colm Cavanagh and wily old

veteran Seán Kavanagh led the Moy charge and were prominent throughout. They were at the heart of all their team’s positive play. But to concede a goal after just 25 seconds was the worst possible start that Glavey’s could have had. They were struggling all over the field in that opening half and even worse news came when young star Cathal Heneghan had to retire injured after just 19 minutes. By half-time the game was probably over as a contest, but no one told Iain Daly and his excellent team. They still tried to get a foothold in the game by putting Gary Patterson into the attack and urging players to get forward at every opportunity. Two early second half points hinted at a recovery, but once Caoileann Fitzmaurice was harshly sent off by referee Brendan Cawley (after being well prompted by Seán Cavanagh), you got the feeling that it

was not going to be Glavey’s’ day. But they dug in and came alive after the sending off. Andy Glennon was magnificent and Liam Cregg, Shane O’Malley and Neil Morris were not far behind him. By the 57th minute the margin was down to four, but the gap was too big and Glavey’s just couldn’t bridge it. It was a brave effort and they died with their boots on. There are times when you just have to put your hands up and admit that the best team won on the day and this was one of those times. The cuteness and experience of Seán and Colm Cavanagh was crucial on the day. The best team won but I was disappointed with many decisions made by referee Brendan Cawley. He certainly gave very little to Glavey’s on the day. But it was not to be and Glavey’s will carry great memories with them from a never to be forgotten championship of 2017/2018. It was a pleasure to be there to share them. This experience will stand to them and I expect to see them flourish in the senior championship come the summer of 2018. Thanks for the memories lads!

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018 Roscommon People Friday 03 March 2017 36 All-Ireland Intermediate Club Final: Moy Tír na nÓg (Tyrone) 1-10 Michael Glavey’s 0-7

Michael Glavey’s manager Iain Daly stands with his players as Eunan Deeney lifts the cup for Moy Tír na nÓg. Picture: Andrew Fox

Key Moments

Seamus Duke

First half Shane O’Malley displays great determination as he holds off the challenge of Tom Loughran. Picture: Andrew Fox

TIME ADDED ON… Stat Attack Daly: ‘I couldn’t praise them enough’ Wides: Moy 6 (4 first-half ) Michael Glavey’s 4 (2 firsthalf )

The worst possible start for Glavey’s when Moy won the throw-in (should have been a Glavey’s free) and worked the ball into Ryan Coleman who fed Tom Loughran who charged through and blasted to the net past Darren O’Malley. Glavey’s were struggling to get their hands on the ball and Ryan Coleman pointed from play in the 7th minute to increase Moy’s lead. Harry Loughran was next on the scoresheet in the 10th minute after great work from Colm Cavanagh. Glavey’s first score came after 11 minutes and a superb one too, Andy Glennon on target from a difficult angle. Eunan Delaney converted at ’45 in the 17th minute after his initial effort was again deflected past the post. A massive blow for Glavey’s when Cathal Heneghan was forced off with a hamstring injury.

Yellow cards: Moy 1 (Tomas McNicholl) Michael Glavey’s 5 (Liam Cregg, Gary Patterson, Tom Murphy, Stephen Comer, james Brennan)

Two Seán Kavanagh frees in the 21st minute and a minute into injurytime completed a thoroughly forgettable half for the Roscommon champions. Half-time score: Moy 1-5 Michael Glavey’s 0-1

Red cards: Moy 0 Michael Glavey’s 1 (Caoileann Fitzmaurice 42)

Second half

Black cards: none Glavey’s came out a different side in the second half. In the second minute Andy Glennon pointed from a difficult angle and two minutes later Stephen Comer pointed from 30 metres after a fine move.

Scores from play: Moy 1-5 Michael Glavey’s 0-2. Attendance: 6,679

Three points in a row from the Tyrone champions over the next eight minutes saw them pull away again. Ryan Coleman fisted over the first in the 35th minute and two minutes later Seán Kavanagh pointed a 20-metre free and the same player was on target with another free in the 41st minute.

Man of the Match: Andy Glennon (Michael Glavey’s)

Match Day Tweets

In the 42nd minute Caoileann Fitzmaurice was involved in an altercation with Harry Loughran close to the Hogan Stand sideline. Seán Kavanagh complained bitterly to the linesman and referee and Brendan Cawley decided to brandish a red card to the Glavey’s man.

Michael Glaveys GAA @glaveys Last one leaving Cloonfad, Granlahan, Ballinlough and Gorthaganny turn off the lights!

But magnificent Glavey’s dug in and were not going to leave Croke Park without a fight. Iain Daly’s men started to play like their lives depended on it.

Michael Glaveys GAA @glaveys Point from Moy by Hawkeye

Andy Glennon pointed a 18th minute free after great work from Gary Patterson and two minutes later Glennon was again on target after a lung-bursting run from Liam Cregg.

David Hussey @djhus1981 Very proud of the glaveys lads… gave us a great season…hold yer heads high..#winners Ann-Marie Earley @ AnneMarieEarley Hard luck to @glaveys in yesterday’s All Ireland Final. A great club with amazing people. Delighted to be in Croker regardless of the result #uptherossies

Michael Glavey’s manager Iain Daly was proud of his players despite a disappointing end to their All-Ireland adventure last Saturday at Croke Park. “We left everything out there on the pitch in the second half. We tried our best but we just didn’t perform. The lads showed great character in the second-half but it didn’t happen for us early on and the gap was too big to make up. Moy are a good side and we have no complaints. “Conceding a goal after 30 seconds is not that

bad because we had a long time to get it back, but it took us a long time to settle. We were trying to get rid of the ball before we got hit in the tackle but it didn’t always work. We didn’t get the ball forward as much as we would have liked. We would have liked to have been able to kick it but that wasn’t always possible. But it’s been a brilliant year. They are a fantastic group of lads, I couldn’t praise them highly enough,” he concluded.

In the 52nd minute Glennon pointed a whopper of a free from 45 metres and when he was again on target from out near the sideline in the 57th minute the margin was cut to four 1-8 to 0-7. But Moy kicked on again to close out the victory. Sub Conall Duffy pointed from 25 metres in the 58th minute. Liam Cregg powered forward in search of a late goal but his shot was blocked in the 60th minute and three minutes into time added on, Seán Cavanagh completed the scoring with a point from play. Full-time score: Moy 1-10 Michael Glavey’s 0-7

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Allianz NFL Division 2: Roscommon 1-17 (20) Tipperary 3-9 (18)

Comeback ‘Tipps’ promotion scales The Verdict

Roscommon: Colm Lavin; David Murray, John McManus, Niall McInerney; Fergal Lennon (0-1), Sean Mullooly, Conor Devaney (0-2); Tadgh O’Rourke, Fintan Cregg (0-1); Niall Daly (0-1), Niall Kilroy (0-2), Enda Smith; Diarmuid Murtagh (1-4, 3 frees), Ciaran Lennon (0-1), Ciaráin Murtagh (0-3, 2 frees). Subs: Brian Stack for F Cregg (32), Finbar Cregg for Mullooly (44), Donie Smith (0-2, 1 sideline) for C Murtagh (52), Ian Kilbride for O’Rourke (54), Conor Daly for E Smith (59), Ronan Daly for F Lennon (65). Tipperary: Evan Comerford; Shane O’Connell, John Meagher, Alan Campbell; Bill Maher, Robbie Kiely, Jimmy Feehan; Liam Casey (0-1), Stephen O’Brien; Josh Keane, Jack Kennedy (0-1, free), Brian Fox; Conor Sweeney (2-4, 2 pens, 2 frees), Michael Quinlivan (1-0), Liam McGrath (0-2, 1 free). Subs: Liam Boland (0-1) for McGrath (55), Kevin Fahey for Kennedy (62), George Hannigan for Casey (67).

Seamus Duke I don’t know how many Roscommon league games I have attended over the years but it is certainly hundreds, and I cannot recall a comeback like the one we witnessed in Semple Stadium last Sunday. With 64 minutes on the clock, Kevin McStay’s men looked down and out, were 3-9 to 0-12 behind, and it looked like any chance of promotion was going up in smoke. But for the final six minutes and the five minutes of injury-time Roscommon woke from their slumber and peppered the Tipp goal with attack after attack. Several substitutions, not least Donie Smith, made the difference and 1-5 without reply saw the huge Roscommon following on their feet to cheer home an unlikely two point win. Michael Quinlivan, Conor Sweeney, Jack Kennedy, Liam Casey and Brian Fox engineered the home side into a winning position but they idled in front and allowed Roscommon to steal up on the rail to pip them at the post. After the match, Kevin McStay, while understandably delighted with the win, was quick to highlight the opening 60 minutes of the game when Roscommon were guilty of giving the ball away time after time. “A great win from a losing position but we have been slow to learn the lessons we were taught last week. The win is great and I am very proud of the fightback but we will not be letting that paper over the cracks of what went on to get us into the position we were in. “The key thing that is stopping us at the moment is that we keep giving away the ball. If we keep doing that we will find it difficult to build any framework for success. But we fought awful hard in the second half and we won more breaking ball that we didn’t win in the first half”. Tipperary were able to breach the Roscommon defence time after time with direct running and that is something that McStay and his selectors will have to

Teams and Scorers

Referee: Noel Mooney (Cavan)

Roscommon captain Conor Devaney makes a hand pass as Brian Fox closes in. Picture: Andrew Fox

get to grips with for the rest of the campaign. But there were plenty of positives too. Resilience and a never-say-die attitude is a great indicator of high morale among the squad and in fairness to the players they never gave up. There were many heroes last Sunday. Conor Devaney had a great match and played a real captain’s part in the comeback. Niall Daly was out of it in the opening three quarters of the game but he played a major role in the revival too. Enda Smith, Diarmuid Murtagh, Niall McInerney, John McManus and Ciaran Lennon were always prominent. The subs were great too, and what

The Roscommon team that defeated Tipperary in Thurles. Picture: Andrew Fox

more does Donie Smith have to do to warrant a starting spot? When he came on he kicked a truly incredible sideline kick over in the 54th minute and it inspired Roscommon into a greater effort. It was fitting that the Boyle ace kicked a fantastic point from all of 40 metres in the 75th minute to give Roscommon a two point lead. He is an inspirational player. McStay highlighted the importance of victory in relation to the overall Division Two landscape. “Everyone in our dressing room was looking at this game against Tipperary as ‘the game’. We are now in a very decent position and the pressure is now

off to an extent. The sense now is that we have a home game next week and we have to get something out of that. If we don’t get something next week then what we did today doesn’t count for a lot. We know that Tipp feel today the way we did last week. “I thought the game was over after Quinlivan got the third goal but Ger (Dowd) and Liam (McHale) were saying we were still in with a chance but they were in a great position. Some of our guys were out on their feet and we made a few substitutions and it was unfortunate that Sean (Mullooly) had to go off and his injury (hamstring) looks serious. Donie (Smith) put his hand up

again with a great display when he came on and the Dalys and all the subs were impressive. But we need to get the balance right,” he said. It was another amazing ‘get out of jail’ performance from Roscommon but they will have to stop giving the ball away so much as it will cost them dearly against stronger opposition. I was very worried about this game all last week and was proved correct as Roscommon looked down and out for most of the contest until that sensational late resurgence. But the three points that Roscommon have on the board after two league games is a great start to the campaign and with Down to come to Dr Hyde Park on Sunday next, if the errors can be eliminated five points out of six is entirely possible and would be a great return after three games heading into a mini break. The margins in this division are so tight. You need a bit of luck on your side and Roscommon have certainly rode their luck so far. Fifteen seconds into the second half Quinlivan’s thunderbolt came crashing off the crossbar. If Roscommon had conceded a fourth goal it certainly would have been curtains. It also looks like Sean Mullooly will be out for the Down match so the selectors will have to find a new centre half-back. Just a word about Semple Stadium, which is a magnificent venue and an indication of what can be done in terms of facilities for spectators, players and everyone involved.

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

Allianz NFL Division 2: Roscommon 1-17 (20) Tipperary 3-9 (18)

Brian Stack goes to ground as he tussles with Michael Quinlivan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Niall Kilroy gets his shot away at goal despite coming under pressure from Shane O’Connell. Picture: Andrew Fox

TIME ADDED ON… Stat Attack Wides: Roscommon 5 (2 first-half ) Tipperary 6 (five first-half ) Red cards: None Black cards: Roscommon 1 (John McManus 74) Tipperary 0 Yellow cards: Roscommon: 5 (David Murray, Niall McInerney, Fergal Lennon, Niall Daly, Sean Mullooly) Tipperary 5 (Shane O’Connell, Josh Keane, Jack Kennedy, Brian Fox, Michael Quinlivan)

Kearns: “Roscommon showed how to ﬁnish” Tipperary manager Liam Kearns rued his side’s missed chances as Roscommon came from behind to take maximum points in Thurles last Sunday. “We scored three goals and we could have had more.

Michael (Quinlivan) hit the crossbar and we were in for a couple more as well. We missed a few handy points as well. It was a very open game with lots of chances but we were not clinical enough to close out the game.

“With less possession, Roscommon showed how to finish and they kicked some great scores in the last few minutes. It’s a harsh lesson for us but we will learn from it and go again next week,” he said.

Seamus Duke

First half Roscommon led by 0-5 to 0-2 after just 15 minutes. Fintan Cregg, Conor Devaney, Ciaran Lennon and Diarmuid Murtagh all from play and a Ciaráin Murtagh free the Roscommon scores. In the 20th minute Michael Quinlivan was dragged to the ground in the large square and Conor Sweeney fired home the resultant spotkick to level the scores. Three points on the spin from Liam McGrath (a free), Conor Sweeney (a long-range free) and Liam Casey saw the home side into a three point lead, and when Niall Kilroy and Sweeney (a free) exchanged points before the break it left Liam Kearns’ men three to the good at the break. Half-time score: Tipperary 1-6 Roscommon 0-6

Second half Straight from the throw-in Michael Quinlivan burst through the Roscommon rearguard and his thunderous shot crashed against the Roscommon crossbar. A let-off. Fergal Lennon and Jack Kennedy exchanged points from play inside the opening two minutes before Tipperary were on the goal trail again in the 38th minute. This time it was Brian Fox who was upended and Conor Sweeney once again fired the resultant penalty past Colm Lavin.

Scores from play: Roscommon 1-10 Tipperary 1-6 Attendance: 3,242

A point from Sweeney in the 39th minute saw Tipp seven points up and looking good. But Roscommon enjoyed a mini-revival to get back into the game.

Man of the Match: Conor Devaney (Roscommon)

Match Day Tweets

Points from Diarmuid Murtagh, Niall Kilroy and a miraculous sideline kick from Donie Smith between the 45th and 54th minutes saw the margin back to three (2-8 to 0-11). But just when Roscommon thought they were back in the game Quinlivan struck for a fantastic solo goal after a mazy run and the margin was back to six. An exchange of points between Diarmuid Murtagh (a free) and Tipp sub Liam Boland saw the score at 3-9 to 0-12 with just six minutes left on the clock.

Roscommon GAA @ RoscommonGAA #Allianzleagues #rosgaa #gaa 30mins 2nd half Roscommon: 0-12(12) Tipperary: 3-9(18)

A Diarmuid Murtagh free after Niall Daly had been fouled in the 66th minute was followed in the 68th minute by the goal that Roscommon needed. Conor Devaney’s initial effort was blocked but Diarmuid Murtagh was first to react and he slammed the ball to the Tipperary net and now there were just two in it.

Roscommon GAA @ RoscommonGAA #Allianzleagues #rosgaa #gaa 33mins 2nd half Roscommon: 1-13(16) Tipperary: 3-9(18) gooaaal Diarmuid Murtagh play Roscommon GAA @ RoscommonGAA #Allianzleagues #rosgaa #gaa Full time Roscommon: 1-17(20) Tipperary: 3-9(18) Well done lads

Key Moments

In the final minute of normal time, Niall Daly’s fine point edged Roscommon closer, and then the sideline official indicated that there would be five minutes of injury-time. Diarmuid Murtagh landed a huge 45 metre free in the 72nd minute and the Roscommon fans were on their feet. Incredibly the scores were level.

Roscommon County Board Secretary, Brian Carroll pictured with Tipperary manager Liam Kearns prior to throw-in in Thurles. Pic: Andrew Fox

Team captain Conor Devaney kicked a wonderful score to see his side take the lead in the 73rd minute and the icing was put on an quite incredible comeback when Donie Smith pointed from 40 metre in the 75th minute. The Rosssies had done it and snatched victory from the jaws of defeat. Incredible stuff. Full-time score: Roscommon 1-17 Tipperary 3-9

SportsPeople

Roscommon People Friday 09 February 2018

INSIDE: All-Ireland Club Intermediate Final report pages 52-53

Promotion push continues at home Allianz National Football League Division Two Roscommon v Down on Sunday at Dr Hyde Park at 2 pm  SEAMUS DUKE

Following last weekend’s smash and grab raid in Semple Stadium, Roscommon’s footballers have a marvellous opportunity to put themselves in a strong position to make a push for promotion when they welcome Down to Dr Hyde Park on Sunday. Two points will leave them joint top of the table at worst with Meath and Cavan meeting this Saturday night. Kevin McStay was right to say that the closing stages last Sunday papered over the cracks of what was a very patchy display against Tipperary for 65 minutes. Roscommon are giving the ball away far too much but the manner of last Sunday’s win will have given the Roscommon players a huge boost and it would be a major disappointment if they were not to take two points on Sunday. I expect that the Roscommon team will probably be much the same as we have seen over the past few weekends. Sean Mullooly is out for at least a month and Kevin McStay and his selectors will have to find a new centre half-back.

David Murray has played there in the past and could be an option with Seanie McDermott or Peter Domican stepping into the corner. Indeed Domican or Conor Daly could be played at number 6 too. The search for a solid midfield combination continues and Ian Kilbride, Tadgh O’Rourke, Fintan Cregg, Niall Daly and Enda Smith are all candidates. But the attack is going well and it is great to see Diarmuid Murtagh finally realising his full potential. He will be our talisman for many years to come if he can stay injury free. After another outstanding contribution from the bench in Thurles it will be hard to resist the claims of Donie Smith for a starting spot this Sunday. Roscommon have a good record against Down in the recent past and following a good opening win for them against Louth they went down by six points at home to Cork last weekend. A huge blow for the Mournemen will be the loss of influential full-forward Connaire Harrison who received a straight red card in the dying minutes of the game last Sunday and he will be suspended. But Down have some excellent players and the side are improving under manager Eamon Burns. Gerard McGovern, Brendan McArdle, Darragh O’Hanlon and Anthony Doherty are top class de-

fenders. At midfield, their pairing of Conor Poland and Niall Donnelly will hope to get at least an even break of possession both are very mobile and rangy and are a formidable pairing. Caoileann Mooney has now moved to the attack from defence and Aaron Morgan and Conor McGinn are also very competent attackers. Ryan Johnson and Kevin McKernan were back in the Down fold last weekend and will be in line for starting places this Sunday. Any complacency from Roscommon will be punished and we have seen even in the first two rounds, how close the teams in Division Two are in terms of quality and standard. Roscommon will have to mind the ball much better than they have done in their opening two league games and get the ball forward quickly to the attack which is playing well. Confidence after last weekend’s dramatic win will be high his week and on home ground I am expecting Roscommon to win. There have been serious flaws in their performances in both their opening games but as long as they are learning as they go along they can record another win and put themselves in a very good position prior to the mini-break. Prediction: Roscommon

Roscommon manager Kevin McStay will have to plan without the injured Seán Mullooly (hamstring) for the next few weeks. Pic: Andrew Fox