2018 05 25 by Roscommon People

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SOCIAL PEOPLE

25 May 2018

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The Local Paper

VOLUME: 580

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Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

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signs summer is here!

With the sun splitting the stones at the time of writing, it’s probably safe enough to finally welcome the arrival of summer! So, here’s the Roscommon People’s guide to what to look forward to starting this weekend…

1. Gardens…of all kinds! Whether you prefer sitting in a beer garden or tending to your own, get ready for an increase in garden related activity this weekend! The usually quiet Roscommon countryside will be alive with the sound of…mowing.

2. Connacht Championship Ah yes. It’s been a long wait but the Rossies are back in provincial action this Saturday and what better place to start than in lovely Leitrim? The Primrose and Blue head into this year’s championship as reigning Connacht champions and are heavy favourites to reach the final for the third year running. Hon the Rossies!

3. Complaints about the heat… Yeah it’s lovely, but is it a little too lovely? “It’s quite warm”. “Am I the only one who’s warm?” “Ah it’s too warm”. “Sure ye can’t be at anything in that!” “Christ, we need a drop of rai…” Shhhh!

4. Kids just…hanging around. School’s out and suddenly the house is infested with them! You try everything but they can’t be moved…they just… slump there watching TV and playing XBOX. They only time they speak is to confirm that they’re hungry or bored or both. Luckily, there’s only 3 more months of this left…

5. The bog… We can leave this section until next week…it’s not going anywhere.

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

Disabled Parking Spaces I would appreciate if you would please highlight in your legal article the abuse of disabled parking spaces by lazy able-bodied people who are apparently too selfish to park elsewhere. Can fines and penalties be imposed on such people who wrongly use these spaces? The Road Traffic Act 2002 introduced a fixed charge system for common parking offences to include the misuse of disabled parking spaces. A fixed charge for motorists parking in disabled spots without displaying a valid permit has recently increased from €80 to €150. Both traffic wardens and the Gardai may issue these parking fines. The announcement was made by Minister for Transport Shane Ross, in March of this year in response to “the selfish and thoughtless behaviour of certain motorists”. Minister Ross said: “[They] think it is alright to park in a disabled bay without a permit, thereby depriving disabled drivers of safe, convenient access to parking spaces reserved for them, I have decided that the fixed charge should be increased from €80 to €150. “I hope that this increased charge will encourage able-bodied motorists to refrain from taking parking spaces reserved for those who need them.” Motorists have 28 days to pay the fixed charge of €150. Failure to pay within this time period will result in the charge increasing to €225 if paid within the following 28 days. Failure to pay within this additional time period will result in legal proceedings being initiated. Private car park operators are responsible for policing the use of designated disabled parking bays in their own car parks and cars parked illegally in these bays may be clamped. Fees for release will vary depending on the operator. 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

Mark lo haN

Local students pictured taking part in the Táin march from Rathcroghan last weekend. The march recreates Queen Medb’s epic Táin Bó Cúailnge or Cattle Raid of Cooley. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Connacht prop and Roscommon town native, Denis Buckley, has been chosen to represent the Barbarians in Sunday’s game against England at Twickenham. A huge honour for the former Creggs and Buccaneers player.

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Bad WEEK

It was a bad week for law and order in Ireland following the murders of Anastasia Kriegel and Jastine Valdez in Dublin (RIP).

the week

“

“We’re standing here with the luxury of being two men who will never experience a crisis pregnancy” – Health Minister Simon Harris addresses Sinn Finn TD and No campaigner, Peadar Tóibín, during Primetime’s referendum debate on Tuesday night.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople

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Pictured at the concert held in Kilbride Community Centre to celebrate the life of Canon Liz McElhinney were Ian McElhinney, Cyril McElhinney and Bishop Ken Clarke. Picture: Andrew Fox

A wonderful evening in memory of Liz! Kilbride Community Centre, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon was transformed from sports hall to concert venue and filled to capacity last Friday night to celebrate the life and ministry of Canon Liz McElhinney. The evening was based on the reading of Canon Liz’s poetry by renowned actor, Ian McElhinney. These poems were written following her diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease. This was complemented with beautiful singing by local choirs, Cór Comáin and the Convent of Mercy Chamber Choir and soloist, Nicola Browne from Lurgan, Co. Armagh and with traditional Irish music by Sean Hanily Music Group (Sean is a Roscommon native). Organist Carl McCambley, also from Lurgan, accompanied the performers on the night. Compere for the evening was Bishop Ken Clarke and the opening welcome was given by Fr. Raymond Browne, Parish Priest of Kilbride. The final blessing was given by

Bishop Ferran Glenfield. The poems were accompanied by well-chosen visual images displayed on screens, and three video clips were also shown – ‘The story behind Liz’s poetry collection’ by Dr. Sharon Heron; ‘IMNDA – Care and Research’ and ‘Faith and Hope in the midst of MND’ – a clip recorded for YouTube by Liz herself. There was also a brief interview with the sonin-law of Lanesborough man, Joe Farrell, who also suffered from MND but who had developed a friendship with Canon Liz before either of them were struck by the disease. Whilst the mood throughout the evening was one of celebration and it was a joyful occasion –as befitted Canon Liz – it was also a very poignant night. A sum of just over €5,700 will be lodged to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association this week with the expectation of some more donations filtering in over the coming weeks. We are deeply indebted

Pictured at the concert held in Kilbride Community Centre to celebrate the life of Canon Liz McElhinney were Violet Satchwell, Cyril McElhinney, Olive Neary, Alistair Kerr and Helen Kerr. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured (right) at Solid Joy Lasting Treasure, the concert held in Kilbride Community Centre to celebrate the life of Canon Liz McElhinney were Miriam Gunn, Derek Mahady and Lesley Denniston. Picture: Andrew Fox

to the media which served us so well in highlighting this event. Sponsorship covered all costs which meant that

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Pictured at Solid Joy Lasting Treasure, the concert held in Kilbride Community Centre to celebrate the life of Canon Liz McElhinney were Walter Latten, Cyril McElhinney, Yvonne Stuart and Hilda Latten. Picture: Andrew Fox

Actor Ian McElhinney pictured at the concert held in Kilbride Community Centre to celebrate the life of Canon Liz McElhinney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople

Baa-Baas’ boost ATHLEAGUE for Buckley! Fair & Festival  SEAMUS DUKE

Denis Buckley, the Roscommon town man who plays for Connacht, has received the huge honour of being called into the Barbarians squad which faces England at a sold-out Twickenham this Sunday. Barbarian FC is steeped in history stretching back to its 1890 inception. The Barbarians’ roll of honour reads like a who’s who in the history of rugby, featuring famous names like Edwards, Campese and Lomu. The star-studded Baa-Baas line-up will be packed with international stars. It is unusual for uncapped players to be selected so this is a very special honour for Denis. Denis is acknowledged as one of the finest loose head props playing not to have been capped by his country, but that honour can’t be far off. The tradition of the Barbarian players wearing their club socks as part of the kit means the Buckley has opted for one Creggs RFC sock and one Blackrock College sock, the club and school where he learned his trade.

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Roscommon’s Denis Buckley ... called into the Barbarians squd.

Former Connacht manager and current head coach at Bristol RFC Pat Lam will coach the Baa-Baas this weekend. No doubt with the tradition of flowing rugby from the Barbarians and Pat Lam’s approach to not kicking away possession this should be

a wonderfully entertaining match. It will be a very proud day for Denis Buckley and his family and for Creggs RFC to be acknowledged by Buckley on the day in his club socks. The match will be broadcast live on Sky TV.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople Celebrating the life of Canon Liz McElhinney

Pictured at the concert held in Kilbride Community Centre to celebrate the life of Canon Liz McElhinney were Caroline Conboy, Ian McElhinney and Jennifer Speer. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Solid Joy Lasting Treasure, the concert held in Kilbride Community Centre to celebrate the life of Canon Liz McElhinney were Tony Clarke, Helen Kerr, Pauline and John Hanly. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Your YES Matters to Roscommon Women Roscommon ‘Together for Yes’ is calling on the people of Roscommon to “respect and protect” women and girls by voting Yes tomorrow in the referendum on repealing the Eighth Amendment. Abortion is a reality in Roscommon. 127 women from Roscommon travelled to Eng-

land to have abortions between 2012 and 2016. This figure does not include those who did not list their home address or who travelled to other countries. Nor does it account for the Roscommon women who took illegal, unregulated medication ordered over the internet without any medical supervision. 14 Ros-

common doctors have signed up to ‘Doctors for Yes’ calling on a Yes vote because they understand the practical, medical implications of the Eighth Amendment and recognise the need for change. The Eighth Amendment is harming women. It adds to the psychological pain of those

who receive a devastating diagnosis of fatal foetal abnormality and are forced to travel if they choose to have a termination. It adds to the distress of a rape victim who becomes pregnant because she cannot access care at home. It causes serious risk to a mother’s long-term health as doctors’ hands are

tied by the Constitution. The Eighth Amendment also hurts men as it puts their daughters, wives, partners, mothers, sisters, nieces, granddaughters and friends at risk and denies them compassionate healthcare in their own country. The Eighth Amendment harms children who find themselves

pregnant and are denied care in their own country. This is a complex issue which cannot be reduced to two lines in the Constitution. Your YES will return healthcare decisions to doctors and patients, decisions that can be made in a calm, safe and supportive environment.

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

Roscommon residents explain their reasons for voting Yes tomorrow: I am voting YES because I want to live in an Ireland where women are free to make decisions regarding their own body and their own health care. - Conor Devaney, 30, Four Mile House

I am voting YES because I am ashamed to work in a health service that continues to provide suboptimal care to the women of this country. - Dr. Roisin McManus, Roscommon Town

I am voting YES so that no more of my friends are forced to England alone and terrified. That they may receive support and help in their homeland. -Helena Corcoran, 27, Ballaghaderreen. I am voting YES so that healthcare professionals are permitted to practice appropriate, quality healthcare in a respectful and regulated environment for pregnant women in Ireland. - Dr Michelle Morris from Roscommon Town

I am voting YES so that women who are told that their baby will not survive after birth due to a fatal fetal abnormality will no longer be forced to take the boat or the plane in order to receive healthcare in another country, miles from home at the most difficult time in their lives. These women deserve better. - Claire Kerrane, 26, Tibohine

I am voting YES so that decisions regarding a woman’s pregnancy are between her and her doctor - Donie Maher, 60, Strokestown

I am voting YES because the 8th Amendment will leave three women today with no option but to take unregulated abortion pills in their bedrooms or bathrooms alone with no medical supervision. - Doireann Markham, 32, Ballinlough I am voting YES for the women in my life. It’s time they were treated with the respect and dignity to make their own choices about their own bodies. - Patrick Kelleher, 24, Castlerea

I am voting YES so that my granddaughters will never be denied medical care in this country. - Sean Higgins, 76, Cootehall

I am voting YES to protect the human and medical rights of women and girls. I am voting YES to ensure medical professionals can treat pregnant woman as they need be treated, and not as they are allowed to be treated. I am voting YES as a medical professional, as a husband, as a father & as a son. I am voting YES because it is the right thing to do. - Dr. John Kelly, Orthopaedic Surgeon from Boyle

I am voting YES so that my daughter will grow upp in an Ireland that values,, respects and trusts women. n. - Julie O’ Donoghue, 34, Roscommon Town

I am voting YES because I think it’s a basic right for people to havee the freedom of choice, to determine whatt course best suits their individual needs inn relation to their well being. - Noel Molloy, 59, Four Mile House

I am voting YES so that my nieces will grow up knowing an Ireland that provides adequate and compassionate care for its women. - Emma Farrell, 33, Castlerea

I am voting YES so that women, young and old who receive a diagnosis of a fatal foetal abnormality will be supported with whatever decision they make in their own country by their own doctors and surrounded by their loved ones. - Charlie Farrell, 62, Carrick on Shannon

I am voting YES for the 12 year old victim of rape, so that she can be cared for in her own country. - Cara Lally, 30, Knockcroghery

I am voting YES so that th our constitution will no longer discriminate against asylum seekers, the homeless, the impoverished, the vulnerable and those who are too sick to travel - Julie Daly, 48, Castlerea

www.togetherforyes.ie

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

A grim week… The lives of two families have been shattered in this grim, awful week. For the rest of us, life will go on, but just now, the nation feels violated, drained, angry. First, a 14-year-old girl was brutally attacked, then murdered, her body discarded callously. The nation was shocked. This evil crime was tearing at our hearts when another awful, appalling act of evil slowly revealed itself. Now, in Bray, another innocent young woman is attacked. A 24-year-old is abducted, murdered, and her body abandoned in undergrowth. Her killer was shot dead the following day by Gardai. The circumstances of his death will be investigated. The blackest of weeks, a week which brought shock, heartbreak, revulsion and a maybe even a sense of shame. True, only those responsible for these brutal acts are to blame, but it’s hard not to feel some shame that our society could produce this evil. At a time like this, facts are trumped by feelings. The fact is that, relatively speaking, this is a very safe country in which to live. It is a fact too that we are a particularly decent, warm, welcoming people. It is a fact too that, over the centuries, there have always been occasional murders and other appalling

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

crimes. That is inevitable. Shocking murders have always ‘been with us’. But at times like this, facts fade into the shadows and feelings and emotions take over. The feeling created by this week’s shocking murders is of a society in which the currency of life is being devalued. A society which, relatively low crime rates notwithstanding, feels less safe than in the past, at least just now. Here’s the awful truth about how we feel this week (and that feeling may pass). We feel that life is devalued. We feel that young women may no longer feel entirely safe on our streets. We feel that criminals are becoming more brutal, more likely to act in a random manner. We feel that substance abuse is playing havoc in our country. We feel fear. First and foremostly, our thoughts and support are with the devastated families of Ana Kriegal and Jastine Valdez. Our thoughts are also with the family of Mark Hennessy. We need perspective too. Innocence was confronted this week by evil. It does not mean that fear should take over, or that the society we should still be very proud of is changing irreversibly for the worst. It is what it is. A week that leaves us drained. A week that raises questions. A week in which we feel violated as a society. A week of tragedy and confusion and sadness. Local students pictured taking part in the Táin march from Rathcroghan last weekend. The march recreates Queen Medb’s epic Life goes on, but it was a week that Táin Bó Cúailnge or Cattle Raid of Cooley. Pic: Mick McCormack rocked us.

Next thing Prince Philip says to Danny Healy-Rae… Saturday The road to Windsor was long – but it was worth it. We arrived on the night before the wedding. Windsor Castle itself was booked up weeks ago (Harry has a large family, I guess) so we had picked out a nice B&B across the road, as you do. It was one of those quaint, old English B&Bs/guesthouses with photos of the Queen on the wall and an intimate old-fashioned bar downstairs, where local ales were served. Just to get into the atmosphere, we had a drink in the bar on the night before the wedding. We met a few other wedding guests but we retired soon after the sing-song started. Three women in the corner were destroying some well-known classics, right out of tune they were. Thank God only three of the Spice Girls were around. Next morning, as is usual when going to a wedding away from home, we had to ask for directions. We asked the man selling fruit in the square if he could direct us to St. George’s Chapel. Of course he was curious. “Is it a funeral or a wedding?” A wedding, we said… between a Prince Harry and a Meghan Markle.

“A Prince Harry” he mused. “Harry…Harry…let me think…what’s his surname?” “Eh…long story, not sure. Look, he’s marrying an American lady, Meghan Markle”. “You don’t know his surname! Well, I don’t know that many Harrys. Would it be Harry from the mountain? Don’t know any Markles either. Are you sure it’s today?” Eventually we got to the chapel. The weather was beautiful. The ceremony was lovely, although it was disappointing that the bride and groom didn’t wait at the entrance to receive congratulations from guests. Elton John was rightly miffed about that. Off then to the reception, which was held in a lovely venue (Windsor Castle). It was a right classy joint – and yes, they had a large screen in the bar showing the FA Cup Final. It was a great night. Harry and Meghan were in their element and there was a nice mix of guests. After we had dined, a few of us ‘escaped’ to the bar to watch the match. David Beckham was all smiles, but I have to say that Posh Spice looked surly enough. Now that might just be my impression, I’m not sure if anyone else noticed or commented.

“I can’t believe Mattie McGrath and Danny Healy-Rae are actually coming!”

Nice chap, Beckham. He was mad to talk about the Connacht Championship. Over a pint or two he even expressed an interest in playing GAA for Roscommon this summer. I looked at him with surprise. “No, I’m serious” Beckham said, wincing as Chelsea scored. “As you know, I love sport, I love being an ambassador, I love playing in different countries, I love inspiring young people”. “Love is EVERYTHING” Bishop Curry interjected with a flourish, knocking over a few glasses as he theatrically spread his hands out. Beckham rolled his eyes.

“So,” Beckham continued, “I’d love to do what I can. I’d love to make a contribution and line out for Roscommon. Just one small detail, what’s the pay like?” When I told him GAA players don’t get paid, he disappeared quicker than Usain Bolt out of the blocks. As United applied pressure on the big screen, Prince Philip wandered in. Hearing my accent, he queried if I could discreetly order him a Guinness while the Queen wasn’t looking. The barman rang the till. “Oh I never carry cash” Prince Philip said, “one should put it on the slate”.

By 10 o’clock, everyone was letting their hair down, well, except for Posh Spice. Elton John was hogging the mike, and Prince Charles and Oprah, both the worse for wear, were calculating their respective fortunes on the back of two beermats. All good fun. Still, and maybe it was just me, but I found quite a lot of the guests were, like Beckham’s wife, a touch posh. Quite stiff upper lippy in fact. Nice people, but mad to talk about playing polo. It was a relief then to hear a Galway accent. “What part of Galway are you from?” I asked the guy with the West of Ireland twang. “I’m from Ahascragh…the name’s Philip, Philip Treacy” he replied. I didn’t know what line of business Philip was in, but so what…it wasn’t a day for talking business. “A very fancy wedding” I said, “serious style. Mind you, some of the hats are a bit much…madness!” Don’t know what I said wrong there, but he fecked off in a huff. We were just about to leave when we heard some more Irish accents. Mattie McGrath, Shane Ross and Danny Healy-Rae had wandered in (evening

invitations). To be honest, Ross was moody enough, muttering something about “this event not being posh enough for me”. “But there’s 1,000 rooms in this castle!” Mattie exclaimed. “My brother Michael has more rooms than that…between all his properties” said a dismissive Danny. Soon, the craic was mighty. In a corner, Bishop Curry and Prince Philip were having a very earnest conversation about slavery. Camilla was lording it on the dancefloor with George Clooney. By the time the band took a break and the ham sandwiches appeared, Windsor Castle was rocking. Danny Healy-Rae was going well, even Shane Ross was letting his hair down (but not Posh Spice). Danny put his arm around Minister Ross. “I told that Prince Philip he could drive the Queen home to Buckingham Palace after two pints”. “Stop it!” Ross looked appalled. “You need to change your mindset”. Danny laughed. “I was only joking, but arra he’s too serious, that fella. He got the right hump when I told him I’m from the real Kingdom”.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople A DV E RT I S E M E N T

Mother Teresa speaking at a Pro-Life meeting in the National Stadium in Dublin, August 1982. In the background is Fr. Browne, Four-Mile-House

Mother Teresa speaks to the Irish people in 1982 Advertorial

Discover new Citroën C4 Cactus at Keenan Bauer Open event (21-31 May) Keenan Bauer are delighted to invite you to their upcoming Citroën Open Event running in the dealership from 21 May-31 May 2018 to celebrate the launch of the eagerly-anticipated new Citroën C4 Cactus. Customers are invited to come along and discover the cool and comfortable 182 Citroën range and with serious savings on offer you can order your new car during the Open Event and receive 3 years’ free servicing*. The New C4 Cactus epitomises the best of Cit-

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“I think the best person to be with us during this hour is Our Lady, who was a woman, and who was carrying a child. So let us ask her to give us her heart – so beautiful, so pure, so immacultae – her heart so full of love and humility – that we may be able to love Jesus in the unborn as she loved him when she had the child with her. And immeidately she felt she had concieved the Son of God, she went to hear cousin Elizabeth to do a servant’s work – to wash, to clean, to cook, to care for her old cousin who was expecting a baby. And something extraordinary happened. She never spoke to her husband Joseph, she never spoke to anybody what she was carrying. But when she came to the house of her cousin, the little unborn child leapt with joy. How strange that God chose a little unborn child to proclaim the coming of Jesus. And today we cannot understand why the world is so much against that little unborn child. Why the baby who has done no evil to anybody, that is so innocent, so pure, so small, that he cannot even live outside the womb of his mother. Why the whole world is standing against the baby? Why the world is planning and doing all kinds of things to destroy, to kill? An why is that little child so precious? Because God has created that little one in his own image for greater things: to love and to be loved, and to become the carrier of his love into this world. That little one – a carrier of God’s love, a carrier of God’s compassion. And, so let us pray together. Let us pray to Our Lady to teach us how to love. For we have all been created for that one purpose – to love and to be loved.”

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KEENAN BAUER MOTORS | CALL US NOW ON (044) 925 2000 LOUGH SHEEVER CORPORATE PARK, MULLINGAR, CO. WESTMEATH admin@keenanbauer.com °Finance example: New Citroën C4 Cactus Touch PureTech 110 S&S manual; OTR Price: €20,695 (RRP* €19,995 + Recommended Delivery Charge €700), Deposit: €7,644.72, Total Amount of Credit: €13,050, 36 monthly payments: €199, Duration of Agreement: 37 months, Total cost of credit: €1,357, Optional final payment (GFV): €7,243.25, Documentation & Option to purchase fee: €75 each, Representative APR: 4.9% fixed PCP Finance. Minimum deposit required. Model shown for illustrative purposes only. You will not own the goods until the final payment is made. Finance is arranged by First Auto Finance Ireland Ltd, the exclusive agent of Close Brothers Ltd, trading as Close Brothers Motor Finance in Ireland. *RRP (Recommended Retail Price) excludes €700 recommended delivery charge and optional extras such as metallic paint. †3 Years’ Free Servicing available on all new Citroën cars ordered 21-31 May 2018 and delivered by 31 July 2018. ◊Purchase Contribution only available on New C4 Cactus Feel and Flair models ordered, placed and delivered by 31 July 2018. ‡5 year unlimited Citroën car warranty is made up of 3 years’ manufacturer’s warranty and 2 years’ extended warranty. °ΔLow rate Finance and Scrappage offers are mutually exclusive and available on selected models in the Citroën car range. Information correct at time of print. Warning: You may have to pay charges if you repay early, in full or in part, a fixed rate credit facility. Subject to status. Ts & Cs apply. See citroen.ie for details.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople Ballaghaderreen’s new Town Team committee

NEWS…at a glance

The AGM of Ballaghaderreen Town Team took place last Saturday evening. The outgoing committee was commended for its contributions over the last two years and the following officers were elected – Chairperson: Geraldine Finn; secretary: Patricia Madden; treasurer: Jo Connolly. The incoming committee wish to acknowledge the help and assistance from Colm Kelly and Roscommon County Council.

Support group for parents of LGBT children Roscommon will have a new helpline and supportive drop-in space for parents seeking support for themselves and for their children who are coming to terms with their gender and sexual identity. It has been set up by parents of LGBT+ children and is called TLC or Tuismitheoirí Le Chéile (Parents Together). Parents need accurate information to support their child’s sexual and gender identity. They often fear that their child will be hurt by oth-

Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is holding its annual street collection in Ballaghaderreen this Friday (25th) and Saturday (26th). Church gate collections will also take place at Elphin, Creeve and Ballinagare Churches this weekend. Your support is greatly appreciated and all money raised goes to animal welfare in Co. Roscommon.

Vegetable Growing Event at Ardcarne

Roscommon Birdwatch Talk Roscommon Birdwatch will host a talk in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon town on Thursday, 24th of May. For more information please contact Padraig on 087-9078849.

RSPCA street collections

Pictured enjoying David Mullaney’s 30th birthday celebrations in the Red Parrot were David, Patricia, Tommy and Rochelle Mullaney. More photos in our next issue. Picture: Andrew Fox

ers, that they will not live fulfilled lives or that they will go abroad and lose contact with home. A spokesperson for TLC says: “Our experience is that parental love will overcome any changes or new realities and after an initial period of readjustment, family life resumes its usual pattern”. This initiative is supported by Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) and Roscommon Leader Partnership. A safe space is offered to parents to chat about their own and their children’s experiences. The service is free and completely confidential. The first drop-in meeting for parents will be held next Monday (28th), from 7 pm to 9 pm at the Melting Pot Community Centre (opposite the Melting Pot Café in Roscommon town).

The helpline number is 083-8979280 and will be accessible from 7 pm to 9 pm next Monday and on a regular basis thereafter.

Local talent set for Limerick A group of talented young people from Kilbride Community Games will compete at the AllIreland Community Games this Saturday and Sunday (26th and 27th). Eoin Kelleher (Handwriting), Cormac Naughton (Art), Saoirse Murray (Solo Singing) and Michael and Aoife Lavin (Swimming) are wished the very best of luck.

Ardcarne Garden Centre will host a free Vegetable Growing Event with leading organic grower, Klaus Laitenberger, this Saturday (26th) from 11 am-12.30 pm in Boyle and 3-4.30 pm in Roscommon town. Come along and pick up some great tips and advice on how to grow your own healthy vegetables.

Celebrating family in Williamstown A Mass celebrating family will take place in Williamstown Parish this Sunday at 10.30 am. This will be followed by a Bog Road Walk with rituals, music, song and refreshments along the way. All families are urged to please attend and join in this wonderful parish celebration in preparation for the World Meeting of Families in August. The Corpus Christi procession will take place after 10.30 am Mass on Sunday, June 3rd.

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

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Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople

‘Cloud over Curraghboy’ as businesses destroyed by ﬁre  DAN DOONER

Two local businesses were destroyed after a major fire broke out in Curraghboy village last Sunday afternoon. The fire began shortly before one o’clock destroying local pub McDermott’s Bar and severely damaging the Deluxe Hair and Beauty Salon in the same building. The blaze is not being treated as suspicious and while there were

a number of people present in the building at the time of the fire, no-one was hurt in the blaze. It is understood that an outdoor barbecue was being prepared but the cause of the fire has not yet been fully determined, according to Gardaí. Three units of the Athlone Fire Service were called to the scene at 12.50 pm and battled the blaze for a number of hours while the road remained closed until 7 pm. Gardaí left the scene at

approximately 7.30 pm and are seeking any information about the incident and can be contacted on 0906638300. Local councillor Tony Ward, who lives in the area, sympathised with the business owners and said that there was a “cloud” hanging over Curraghboy and surrounding areas since the incident. “This is a huge loss to the area with seven or eight jobs gone. Everyone in Curraghboy and the surrounding area

is absolutely stunned. There’s a cloud hanging over the place. “McDermott’s was a pub for both young and old customers. I’ve been speaking to older people who would go there for a drink and a chat, those living alone or in isolation, who now have nowhere to go. It was an outlet and an outing for them. “A lot of fundraising went on in the pub and Johnny and the McDermott family would do a lot for local causes. Johnny is well liked and a great

community man, who is involved with Tidy Towns and things like that,” he said. Cllr. Ward assured both businesses of his support and said the local community has already rallied behind the owners. “I’ve had people calling me offering their support (to the owners). This is a very supportive community and I hope we see both businesses back up and running in the future,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople

NOTICE

Are you planning a local History, Anniversary Book or School Magazine?

INVITATION TO TENDER (CONTRACT) Invitation to Tender for the construction of the dwelling house known as the Join Our Boys house at Athlone Road, Roscommon Town. The trustees of the above Trust are calling for tenders for the construction of the above dwelling. Tender documentation, including terms of reference and selection criteria, can be obtained from:

joinourboyshouse@gmail.com The tender closes on the 22nd of June 2018. The Trustees, Join Our Boys Trust, Park House, Roscommon Town.

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Hear, Here!

n 2015 John Ryan and Dave Gleeson established Blackberry Hearing in Two Mile House, a small village outside Naas in Kildare.

The two were curious about the high cost of hearing aids and hearing solutions. They were also curious that, despite amazing and advancing hearing aid technology, many people had less than positive views about hearing aids. Despite what appeared to be the obvious advantages to wearing modern hearing aids for those with hearing loss, many where reluctant to try them out. With long and diverse business careers behind them, Dave and John started to research why this was so. After all, anyone who now had a problem with eyesight bought glasses or had laser surgery. Their research into this question led them to start Blackberry Hearing and they focussed on building the company without borrowing any practices from the existing industry for the following reasons. Customers found hearing aids to be expensive, indicative of aging and thought that hearing aidsmay not be as successful as they would like them to be. Dave and John established the following *

Prices were shockingly high

People were unaware of what they were buying and how much it might cost

There was a general lack of clarity on pricing, models and grant eligibility.

People were unaware of how discreet and eﬀective modern hearing aids had become

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Quality - World leading brand and models Prices - Signiﬁcantly reduced prices Transparency – Informing prospective customers of their options beforehand Simplicity – Making the process of testing and purchasing as simple as possible Professionalism – Only employing the best audiologists (BSc minimum, 4 years) Customer Care – A company ethos where no stone is left unturned to provide the best possible solution and follow up care Over three years later and now with thousands of customers, Blackberry Hearing continues to grow. The company is growing because it delivers on its promise - Life changing technology, at great prices, to assist people to hear fully, to participate in everyday life with their children, grandchildren, playmusic in a band, attendchurch or socialise in the local pub. How does Blackberry Hearing know if they have achieved their objectives? By listening to the company’s customers. Hundreds of validated customer testimonials are left on Facebook alone. Most of these validated testimonials can be viewed on www.blackberryhearing.com/testimonials.

Pictured in Glenamaddy at the North Galway Vintage and Heritage Show were Seán McGann and Billy Harness. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Pictured in Glenamaddy at the North Galway Vintage and Heritage Show were Bridget, Matthew, Grace, Susan and Joseph Orford. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople Great ideas and Great value in our Giftware and Homeware sections. For your last minute Gifts and Houseware needs get instore and get a bargain.

Phone: 090 66 24078

a r g Saturdays e e Deal Off ers p u M S apply 24th May to 30th 3 May every Saturday instore

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Local pianist in prestigious competition  DAN DOONER

Talented pianist, Peter Regan from Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon, is taking part in the 11th Dublin International Piano Competition, which opened last Friday (18th) and runs until next Tuesday (29th).

Peter is currently continuing his music studies in Toronto, Canada but has flown in to join entrants from 22 countries in Dublin this week. The Dublin International Piano Competition was established in 1988 and takes place every three years. Since

its foundation the competition has grown in stature, and now ranks among the most important piano competitions in the world. As well as receiving a prize fund, a prestigious list of engagements is secured for the winner including début concerts in London and New

York as well as appearances at international festivals and concerti with leading orchestras. Previous winners have gone on to highly successful international careers. The prestigious event also provides young musicians with an opportunity to play on the

Pictured at the Roscommon Gaels 5km Fun Run/Walk were Tom Ryan, Teresa Hession and Minister Denis Naughten. Picture: Andrew Fox

world stage with participants coming from an array of countries around the world. Chaired by Artistic Director John O’Conor, the competition is adjudicated by distinguished members of the music profession from around the world and will Peter Regan from Ballyleague, Co. continue until May 29th. Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople

Minister Ring to ofﬁcially open Ash Park in Kilteevan The official opening of Ash Park in Kilteevan will take place on Friday evening, June 1st, with Minister Michael Ring in attendance. The event will commence with Mass in the park at 7 pm. Following Mass, Michael Ring, Minister for Rural & Community Development, will perform the official opening along with Fr. Sean Beirne, CC. Weather-permitting, there will be lots of entertainment for children and light refreshments will also be served. This week Kilteevan Community Development Group explained the background to this excit-

ing project. In 2015, new directors were elected to the Board of Kilteevan Community Development Group CLG. This group committed to continuing development work which had been initiated by the previous board and which had included refurbishment of the old parish church into what is now Kilteevan Community Centre. St. Joseph’s Church, the community centre and what is now the recreational park are all situated on lands owned by the Catholic Diocese of Elphin, acquired from the Irish Land Commission back in the 1940s with the

division of the Maypother estate. (This part of the estate was heavily planted with ash trees as well as other native trees, which is how it became known as Ash Park). The community centre exists under a lease from the Diocese. In 2015 the new board looked explored the issue of what further development needed to be undertaken within the parish. This resulted in successful negotiations with the Elphin Diosese of a long-term lease for the area of land between the church and the community centre which is now Ash Park. The group decided that

the best approach was to provide recreational facilities for the people of the locality. This vision has led to the development of a children’s playground with a surrounding perimeter walkway. Over the coming months, adult exercise equipment will also be provided, ensuring that the recreational needs of all ages are being catered for. Kilteevan Community Development Group says:

“All this development was only made possible through our success in procuring funding from the Government’s CLAR funding programme. Grant funding was also secured to allow the secure fencing of the river which separates the park from the community centre. “We also want to acknowledge and thank the people of the community and beyond who support-

ed fundraising events that were necessary to raise the required matching funds to complete the financing of the project. “We are indeed most grateful for the assistance we received from the Diocese of Elphin, the Department of Rural and Community Development, Roscommon County Council and the Rural Social Scheme”. The board has been very

encouraged by the overwhelming positive feedback on the new facility. “We are very proud of what we have achieved, knowing that it will be for the benefit of all our community for many years to come. We look forward to seeing a big gathering of children and their parents at our opening on Friday, June 1st, for what will be a great start to the bank holiday weekend”.

The official opening of Ash Park in Kilteevan will take place on Friday evening, June 1st, with Minister Michael Ring in attendance

“In my 25 years of practice, I have never met a woman who wanted an abortion but I have met many women who desperately needed one” – Prof Louise Kenny Consultant Obstetrician

Allow doctors the space to respond to complex healthcare situations. Care for couples who receive a devastating diagnosis of fatal foetal abnormality. Prof Louise Kenny Professor of Obstetrics at University College Cork. Prof LouiseObstetrician Kenny Consultant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecologist

at University College Cork. Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Provide care in Ireland, for women in Ireland. Address the reality that thousands of women in Ireland have abortions every year. Regulate how women safely access abortion services. End the unsafe and illegal use of abortion pills in Irish homes. Support victims of rape who become pregnant.

Hear doctors tell you, in their own words, why they will be voting Yes on 25th May.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople

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Roscommon Gaels 5km Fun Run/Walk

Roscommon Credit Union is hosting an

Information night Pictured at the Roscommon Gaels 5km Fun Run/Walk were Patricia Torpey, John and Orla Wynne. Picture: Andrew Fox

on Monday, 28th May 2018 at 7.30pm at the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown ~ Topics on the night ~

• Credit Union Services • FREE ‘Make a Will’ Service We will have a number of panellists on the night which will include local Solicitors and Credit Union Representatives Pictured at the Roscommon Gaels 5km Fun Run/Walk were Natasha Comiskey, Erica Feeley and Dawn Allen. Picture: Andrew Fox

Members and non-members most welcome on the night

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

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

THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS

Brand Ireland approach needed for beef in China? IFA President Joe Healy has said Ireland should take a brand Ireland approach to selling beef to China. “The Chinese market presents a unique opportunity to build a high value Irish beef brand, similar to Kerrygold for dairy.

“We have to maximise the price return and avoid a situation where the farmer price is undermined by processors undercutting each other in the Chinese market. “Farmers have seen the success of the Ornua Kerrygold model on the dairy side. China presents an

opportunity to take a similar approach with Irish beef”. The IFA President, along with National Livestock Chairman Angus Woods and National Pig Chairman Tom Hogan, are visiting China as part of a Ministerial trade mission, following the open-

ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. 3 RINGS IN OPERATION. ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M.

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ing of the Chinese market for Irish beef last month. Joe Healy added: “The Chinese market could not be more important in the context of the risk to the UK market from Brexit. China presents a unique opportunity and we must get it right”.

Pictured in Glenamaddy at the North Galway Vintage and Heritage Show were Malachy Flaherty, John Lynch and Daniel Lynch. Picture: Andrew Fox

IFA Hill Committee Chairman Flor McCarthy has welcomed the decision by the Court of Appeal to reject a claim that a public right of way existed over a landowner’s property in Co. Wicklow. “This is an important decision that protects the rights of landowners and it confirms that access to land can only be given by the landowner, unless a public right of way already exists. “IFA has already raised with the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring the need to extend the number of walks covered by the Walks Scheme. IFA will be meeting the Minister at the Comhairle na Tuaithe meeting which involves all the recreational stakeholders and will raise the issues of insurance and the indemnification for land owners who do allow walkers onto their land”.

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Bullocks

BBX 890kgs €1890, BAX 780kgs €1755, Lim X 710kgs €1610, Lim 700kgs €1580, Simm X 690kgs €1415, AA 665kgs €1360, Simm X 670kgs €1350, AA 665kgs €1360, Lim 625kgs €1235, HEX 550kgs €1035, SAX 645kgs €1180, BAX 590kgs €1400, Lim 635kgs €1560, Lim X 500kgs €1000, Fr 510kgs €710, Fr 605kgs €905.

Char X 750kgs €1950, Char X 705kgs €1900, 6 Char X 682kgs €1825, Lim X 545kgs €1575, 3 Char X 551kgs €1500, 2 Lim X 527kgs €1485, Char X 475kgs €1510, 2 Char 540kgs €1460, Char 495kgs €1400, 2 Simm 475kgs €1370, 4 Lim X 408kgs €1330, 5 Char X 406kgs €1330, 2 Char X 385kgs €1280, Simm X 460kgs €1240, AAX 500kgs €1180, BBX 460kgs €1255.

Heifers

Spring lambs

Lim X 630kgs €1700, Char X 590kgs €1405, Simm X 485kgs €1340, 2 Lim X 452kgs €1245, Lim X 475kgs €1215, AAX 485kgs €1105, 2 AAX 372kgs €835, 2 Lim X 362kgs €930, HEX 465kgs €1015, Lim X 485kgs €1200, Lim X 395kgs €1080, Lim X 315kgs €750, AAX 420kgs €1050, Lim X 380kgs €1030.

48.3kgs €150, 47kgs €148, 51.8kgs €148, 45.7kgs €147, 48kgs €140, 43.9kgs €140, 44.6kgs €133, 40kgs €122, 42.7kgs €112.

Hoggets 50.7kgs €137, 53.5kgs €130, 49.4kgs €122.5, 44.7kgs €116.

Manager’s report… Brendan Egan, Castlerea Mart “There were 900 cattle on offer last week with very little change in trade. Quality store cattle remained a very strong trade and there were noticeable increases in breeding stock with cows with calves at foot making as high as €2200. “The weanling trade reported some strong prices for quality lots while the cow trade remains buoyant. Thursday’s sale also had bullocks on offer with the forward store bullocks a fine trade. “Cows with calves at foot made from €925 to €2200 per head. A good number of calves on offer again last week with dairy cross calves making from €80 to €125, Aberdeen Angus and Hereford crosses making €150 to €320 and the continentals making up to €620. “Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday) with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am”.

Manager’s report… Maura Quigley, Roscommon Mart “There were good numbers on offer at last Friday’s cattle sale. There was strong demand for bullocks with prices averaging from €2.62 up to €3.35 per kilo with a top price of €1200 over the weight for a Char X Bullock 750kgs fetching €1950. “There was also a lively trade for heifers with prices averaging from €2.34 per kilo up to €2.76 per kilo. There was a large number of dry cows on offer with prices ranging from €1.90 up to €2.46 per kilo. “The mart will host a special sale of bullocks and heifers as well as dry cows this Friday at 11 am. “We had a similar entry of sheep at last Wednesday’s sheep sale (16th). There was a steady trade for hoggets with prices topping €137. “We had a large entry this week of spring lambs with a top price of €150. The trade for cast ewes was similar to the previous week with prices ranging from €36 to €145. “There was a bigger entry of ewes with lambs at foot on offer this week, there was a brisk trade for them with all lots sold. Ewes with one lamb at foot made up to €186. Ewes with two lambs at foot made up to €250. “Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am for lambs, cast ewes and ewes with lambs at foot”.

Castlerea Mart sample prices Bullocks Ch 490kgs €1475, Lm 460kgs €1325, Ch 530kgs €1530, AA 525kgs €1240, Ch 595kgs €1500.

Dry cows AA 985kgs €1945, Ch 780kgs €1795, Lm 750kgs €1705, BAx 700kgs €1545, Ch 690kgs €1515.

Weanling bulls Ch 295kgs €1000, Lm 265kgs €890, AAx 435kgs €1170, Lm

370kgs €1115, Ch 440kgs €1115.

Weanling heifers Lm 280kgs €835, AA 260kgs €805, Lmx 395kgs €1295, Lm 350kgs €1115, Ch 330kgs €960, Ch 380kgs €1095.

Heifers Lm 390kgs €1120, BBx 400kgs €1065, Ch 490kgs €1375, AA 460kgs €1275, Ch 640kgs €1670, BBx 525kgs €1430, Lm 540kgs €1360.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

FarmingPeople

People NEWS

Creggs breeders’ success at Royal Ulster Balmoral Show After two consecutive reserve championship attempts, the Dowd family from Creggs, Co. Galway stole the show this year at the 150th Royal Ulster Balmoral Show with their six-year-old cow, ‘Creaga Heidi’. Heidi was very much the leading lady on the day and was awarded best Shorthorn Cow, followed by Champion Female, before going on to take the Supreme Breed Champion title. The home-bred cow is no stranger to success and already has five All-Ireland Champion titles and is the current Miss Europe breed Champion. The Dowd family’s victory didn’t stop there as their junior bull ‘Creaga Noble Art’ and son to champion cow ‘Heidi’ was awarded best young bull and breed Junior Champion. The win comes in a long list of victories for the Dowd family and is testament to their continued contribution to pedigree breeding in Ireland.

Senator Terry Leyden has welcomed what he described as “the confirmation by Minister for Justice, Charles Flanagan that Ballinlough Garda Station is in the course of refurbishment”. Senator Leyden also raised concerns regarding Tarmonbarry Garda Station and the urgent need to have it re-opened. The Minister, addressing Seanad Eireann, confirmed that he was aware of the situation in Tarmonbarry and that he would be happy to consult bilaterally on this issue. Minister Flanagan stated that he hoped a form of resolution can be found to what is a challenge, subject of the availability of resources.

Padre Pio Pilgrimage

The Padre Pio Pilgrimage to Holycross Abbey, Co. Tipperary takes place on Sunday, 27th of May. The bus will leave The Crescent, Boyle at 8 am. Enquiries to Moya on 071-9662110.

Connolly welcomes further flood study Another success for the Dowd family and ‘Creaga Heidi’!

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Teagasc will be holding its final GLAS courses for farmers who have not yet completed this mandatory part of the scheme. Booking is essential, please ring 076-1113555 Tom Kellegher Regional Manager, Roscommon/Longford

Leyden presses Flanagan on Garda stations

IFA calls for ﬁnal 15% GLAS payments to commence now With the final 15% GLAS payment now due to commence, IFA Rural Development Chairman Joe Brady has called on Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to make payment worth nearly €30m to all 49,000 farmers in the scheme without any delay. Farmers who have issues with Nutrient Management Plans or Commonage Plans must not be denied payment. Joe Brady said: “Given the difficulties on many farms due the recent fodder crisis, cash flow is at critical level on many farms. Problem cases must be resolved by the Department and no farmer should be denied payment”.

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Special Sale of Heifers and Bullocks This Friday, May 25th at 11 a.m. Also Dry Cows Please note Yard opens at 7.30 a.m. All stock to be penned by 10 a.m. Viewing time from 10.30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

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Special Sale of Weanlings Tuesday, May 29th at 5 p.m. Bookings accepted up until 5 p.m. on Thursday, 24th May Also Suckler/Springers All stock to be penned by 4 p.m. viewing from 4.30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Please note as and from Friday, June 1st Weanlings will be sold on Fridays until further notice.

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Cllr. Michael Connolly has welcomed news that a further Flood Risk Management study is to be carried out in the Ahascragh area under the CFRAMS advancement study being carried out by OPW in consultation with Galway County Council. The Galway-based Fianna Fáil Councillor said that consultation with local people identified the need for a further study in the area. “The initial study showed the need for works to be carried out, but there are concerns that the initial study did not take account of the record high levels encountered during the 2015 and 2016. “The CFRAMS study took place prior to 2015 and recent consultation with local people has identified the need for a further study to be carried out in the Ahascragh,” he said. The result of this study and plans will be brought before councillors later this year as part of flood risk management plans in the area.

Appeal to farmers over use of pesticides

Irish Water is appealing to farmers and other users of pesticides in Roscommon to follow the guidelines when applying these substances to their lands. Irish Water says that exceedances in pesticides have been detected in drinking water sources in Co. Roscommon. The efforts to reduce the incidence of these detections are being coordinated by the NPDWAG. This group is chaired by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. All of the key stakeholders are represented in this group and include other Government departments and agencies; local authorities; industry representative bodies; farming organisations; water sector organisations; and amenity sector organisations. In Roscommon, the exceedances were noted in the Ballinlough/Loughglynn water supply in 2017 as well as low level detections in other supplies. While there is no threat to public health, it is imperative that users of pesticides are mindful of best practice when spraying their lands. Commenting ahead of the 2018 spraying season, Dr. Pat O’Sullivan, Irish Water’s Regional Drinking Water Compliance Specialist said: “Irish Water is continuing its extensive investment programme to improve water and wastewater services in Ireland. Providing safe, clean drinking water for all is our first priority”. Five different supplies in Co. Roscommon have seen the herbicide MCPA detected over the past two years, albeit mostly at very low levels. MCPA is used mainly for eradicating rushes, a problem for many years on Irish farms and one that looks like continuing for many more years. It is also found in other weed killer formulations used by gardeners and growers, so its use is quite widespread.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

PEOPLE PLATFORM Your say, our say….in everyone’s favourite local newspaper!

The nation prepares to vote! ‘Eleventh-hour’ canvassing ahead of the referendum on the Eighth Amendment is continuing throughout County Roscommon today ahead of tomorrow’s vote. Voters nationwide will go the polls tomorrow (Friday, 25th of May) to vote on a proposal to change the Constitution of Ireland. The proposed change

to the Constitution concerns the regulation of termination of pregnancy. Polling stations will be open from 7 am on Friday until 10 pm. Good weather conditions are likely to help lead to a substantial turnout. Over recent weeks there has been major international

media focus on Co. Roscommon, a level of curiosity doubtlessly linked to this constituency’s status as the only one in the country to reject the same-sex marriage proposal in the 2015 referendum. Counting of votes cast in Roscommon/Galway will commence on Saturday

morning in the Hyde Centre, Roscommon. The Referendum Commission has called on voters to use their vote. The Commission, which is the independent body set up to explain the proposal of the referendum and promote voter turnout, encourages voters who are unsure about their decision

to turn to its independent guide and its website, www. refcom2018.ie, for unbiased facts about the Referendum proposal on the Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy. Voters should normally receive a polling card in the post before polling day, telling them at which polling station they should cast their vote. If

land’s dark history. This is a history of confinement and criminalisation of ‘fallen women’, of obstetric violence in our maternity hospitals, including but not limited to symphysiotomies. This history includes the Tuam Babies, Ann Lovett, and Joanne Hayes and more recently Savita Halappanavar, Michelle Harte, Miss X, and Miss Y. Our dark history is characterised by hostility toward women thanks in large part to the moral monopoly of the Catholic Church. The Eighth Amendment is but one legacy of these dark times. I hope, for the sake of all my students, that on the 25th of May voters will imagine an Ireland that is compassionate, open and forward-looking. Not one that will return us to a moral monopoly marked by fear, shame and secrets. I hope for a resounding YES so I may be able to teach that this dark era is behind us. Yours sincerely, Dr. Theresa O’Keefe, Lecturer in Sociology, University College Cork

‘Your wives, sisters, daughters need your Yes’ 90, Iveragh Road, Whitehall, Dublin 9 Dear Editor, Disappointed to hear on RTE’s Drivetime that many men will not vote in the referendum as they see it as “a woman’s business”. Here is the thing about referendums: all eligible citizens can vote and it is the majority of those that vote who decide. In the Divorce Referendum, those in broken marriages needed the support of the single, the married and the widowed. In the Marriage Equality Referendum, same-sex couples wishing to marry needed the support of the straight community. If you believe it is a matter for women, if you trust women, then you need to vote –we need your Yes. Your wives, your sisters, your daughters need your Yes. Yours sincerely, Laura Henderson

‘Canvassing an astonishingly positive experience’ Rathmichael, Co. Dublin Dear Editor, I started volunteering with Together 4 Yes a few months ago as I felt it was the right thing to do for everyone, and especially for the future of my teenage daughter, who has additional needs. I did not want to leave her without reproductive healthcare, should she need it, and I did not want to leave her without her mother, should I need it. I knocked on my first door shivering with cold and trepidation, but canvassing proved an astonishingly positive experience. Again and again, my prejudices were turned on their head. A grey-haired lady warily opened the door to me. Above her head on the wall hung a black crucifix. I took a breath and explained that the Yes campaign wanted Irish women looked after in Ireland with compassion and dignity. “Oh yes,” she said. “Yes. It’s awful. It has to change. I’ll be voting Yes”. It was if a dam had broken. A canvasser is only supposed to spend a few minutes on each doorstep, but I stood for about 20 minutes listening to this old lady who wanted to talk. She was the same age as my mother and, like my mother, had thought for years, “If it was my daughter, I’d just go to England and say nothing”. Now it seemed she was suddenly asking herself, “Why? Why should I travel? Why should we maintain a wall of silence and of shame?” I’m from the country myself, and it doesn’t appear to me that there is an urban-rural divide, or even a generational divide. It’s a divide between denial and acknowledgement. An acknowledgement that, no matter how carefully

you are on the electoral register but don’t receive a polling card you are still entitled to vote. You do not need to have your polling card with you when you go to vote. However, you should bring some valid form of personal identification. Polling stations will be open from 7 am until 10 pm on Friday, 25th of May.

‘LoveBoth’s use of photos is disappointing’ Pictured at the launch of the YES Campaign in the Percy French Hotel were Julie O’Donoghue, Ailbhe O’Donoghue, Fionn Higgins O’Donoghue and Brian Higgins. Picture: Andrew Fox

you plan your life, terrible things can happen. The older people I met, I felt, understood this better. They had witnessed the many abuses by the church; had perhaps been victims of abuse, of the Magdalene laundries or the mother and baby homes. Many had experienced fetal abnormalities or pregnancy loss themselves, often suffering in silence. Now with children and grandchildren, they knew that abuse, illness, disability, crisis can strike anyone at any time, and that family support and acknowledgement help so much. Many people I chatted to had questions or some reservations, but a desire for change and compassion was the prevalent attitude. It has been a long, slow, cold spring in Ireland, but walking around my local community, I’m starting to feel some real warmth. Yours sincerely, Claire Hayes

Why we must repeal the 8th 16, St. John’s Well Way, Old Kilmainham Road, Dublin 8 Dear Editor, Despite living in Ireland for almost 20 years, I am not an Irish citizen. I cannot vote. If I could vote, I would vote a thousand times yes. Although my two pregnancies were not complicated, I still felt the impact of the 8th amendment when certain procedures were carried out without my consent. I am very concerned for my daughter’s future – life can be complicated and we don’t know what issues she could face in her own pregnancy. As any mother would, I want best healthcare, in line with international best practice, to be available to my daughter in her home country. I want my daughter to be able to make the best decision with

her medical provider who also has her best interest in mind. I want repeal so that no-one will have the legal right to do anything to my daughter’s body without her consent. Yours sincerely, Lucia Walsh

‘Yes vote will reduce abortion rate’ 45, Griffith Place, Waterford City Dear Editor, I’ve spoken to many people who are torn with regards to the upcoming referendum due to the highly emotive language used by the anti-choice side with claims of floodgates opening. In fact it has been shown that when more liberal abortion legislation is introduced the abortion rates fall. There’s one simple reason why abortion rates go down after legalisation (Switzerland and Portugal are just two examples). A crisis pregnancy is a huge and terrifying thing to face. A woman is more likely to decide she’s able to go through with the pregnancy if she’s making that decision with calm, clarity and professional support, rather than making it alone, in a panic, under huge pressure for time, money and secrecy. A yes vote will most likely mean a reduction in the abortion rate not an increase. And will not involve gates of any kind. Kindest regards, Gillian Kearns

‘Our dark history of hostility towards ’ Dear Editor, As a lecturer in family and gender studies my work involves educating young people on Ire-

Sidbury Court, Bray, Co. Wicklow Dear Editor, It is disappointing to see the LoveBoth campaign using photos of children with Down Syndrome on posters once again. Not only is it incredibly dishonest – it is near impossible to get a diagnosis before 12 weeks gestation, and under the proposed legislation abortion for non-fatal disability after 12 weeks will be illegal – it is also incredibly disrespectful given that Down Syndrome Ireland have already issued a statement asking for people with Down Syndrome not to be exploited to make a point in this campaign. The Irish people deserve to make their decision based on facts, not on this kind of dishonest exploitation. Yours sincerely, Alice Henehan

I don’t want to have power over women’s choices Carrigaline, Cork City Dear Editor, I have no interest in voting in this referendum. I don’t want to have this power to control women’s choices. I never wanted this power in the first place. It seems bizarre to me that I should have bishops telling me the psychological impact of abortion and lawyers telling me when a doctor can and can’t act in terms of women’s health. What do they know? What do I? So, I’m going to go and vote Yes on May 25th, and leave the power to make decisions on women’s healthcare to women and their doctors, without interference from me, the church or the state, as it should be. Yours sincerely, Brian Foskin

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

PEOPLE PLATFORM Your say, our say….in everyone’s favourite local newspaper!

‘Abortion is a lucrative, exploitative business’ Tully, Ballygar, Co. Galway Dear Editor, When a custom gets established and entrenched in society, there’s an assumption that there’s something upright about it. History tells us otherwise. Slavery, the persecution of the Jews, exploitation of the poor, racial discrimination and abortion come to mind. Some have expired or greatly diminished thanks to great, noble efforts. Abortion is a lucrative, and often an exploitative business that is being vigorously promoted at the moment. This is being done with no regard for the tiny victims or their potential legacies. The adult victims are left traumatised as is evidenced by the numerous counselling, therapy centres needed in the United Stated and Britain, specifically for this trauma. If we vote ‘yes’ on polling day, we are assisting the abortionist with the injection and the unkind implements. Yours sincerely, Michael Nolan.

Have we the right to legalise the killing of unborn human beings in the generations to come? St. Patrick’s Tce, Antogher, Ros Comáin Dear Editor, It is clear that many people are in favour of repealing the 8th amendment. I believe that a yes vote will result in the introduction of a very liberal abortion regime in Ireland as per the proposed legislation. The ‘Yes’ lobby, who are by and large the pro-abortion lobby, have relentlessly used the ‘hard cases’ such as fatal foetal abnormality, rape, incest and the Savita Halappanavar case as some of the main planks in their campaign. None of their posters call for abortion on demand, which is their real aim. Savita died as the result of medical incompetence and neglect and her doctors blamed the 8th as an excuse for their mistakes (see the independent reports from the HSE, HIQA and The Coroner’s Office). If the yes side were only interested in the other ‘hard cases’ on compassionate grounds, why do they want abortion freely available for healthy women and babies? These hard cases are the key they use to unlock the barriers to their real aim and purpose. A question all voters should ask themselves is ‘Would I be prepared to assist at a procedure that kills an innocent baby in the womb?’ If not, they have no right to contract that work to hired killers in surgical gowns. That will be the implication of voting yes. The abortion lobby want to normalise abortion as part of healthcare for healthy women and healthy babies – and claim this to be a compassionate approach. They say it is a matter of the woman’s choice. If she wants to keep the baby, that is her choice and her right. If she wants to abort the baby that is also ‘her choice’ and her right. How can these two opposing choices be just and morally right? The baby gets no choice. There is no mention of compassion for the nameless, voiceless innocent child involved. Has the unborn child no inherent

newsbriefs Hopkins raises Courthouse refurbishment Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins, speaking in the Seanad on Wednesday, raised the need for the refurbishment of the courthouse in Roscommon town. Senator Hopkins stated: “The current court facilities in Roscommon Courthouse are not fit for purpose and are totally inadequate to meet the needs of a modern court system. “Locations in particular where we have family law sittings such as in Roscommon have a particular need for these special protection measures and this highlights the importance of these improvement works being carried out. The courthouse was built in 1832 and the building is in a very poor state of repair at present. “It is very positive that this project has been included in Project Ireland 2040 and today, I really want to emphasise the need for it to proceed in a timely manner”.

Murphy: X-rays unavailable in Roscommon Cllr. Nigel Dineen, Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, Deputy Eugene Murphy, Cllr. Joe Murphy, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, Cllr. Paddy Kilduff and Cllr. Tony Ward are backing the call for a No vote in this Friday’s abortion referendum. Missing from the picture is Cllr. John Cummins.

rights? Repeal of the 8th will strip the unborn of all rights. We have a lot to be ashamed of in Ireland with regard to our past treatment of single mothers and their children. Abortion is one way of dealing with crisis pregnancies, but I believe that abortion is the ultimate child abuse. If we could hear the silent scream of the baby being aborted there would be uproar at the very idea. The fact that the baby has no name also helps in the coverup. Where are the aborted babies buried? Will abortion become the answer attributed to the ‘Tuam babies’? Will this be the approach…to kill them before they can be named? Abortion worldwide has been called ‘The silent Holocaust’ and so it is. It is significant that for many people the two main survival instincts in the human race, i.e. our need for food and our reproductive instinct, have both been corrupted by consumerism. Our fake food industry has led to a health crisis that is rapidly becoming unmanageable, while our sexual instinct has been reduced to an entertainment and marketing product. Abortion is part of that product as is pornography which is one of the biggest businesses on the internet. Be aware of the forces at work to influence the outcome of this vote. Many people have obviously taken the yes message on board, especially younger people. They obviously think that the pro-life people are behind the times, misinformed and are wrong in seeking to protect human life at all of its stages. There are many young women and men in the pro-life movement doing Trojan work to promote a culture of life. Those of us of the older generation have accumulated a lot of experience and some little wisdom. It is an unfortunate fact of our culture that the wisdom of older people counts for little. The young are much easier to influence and fool. All of us – young and old – have been given the gift of life. Have we the right to legalise the killing of unborn human beings in the generations to come? The 8th amendment recognises that unborn human beings have the right to life. Voting Yes for repeal will remove all rights of the unborn. Vote No to protect human life at its most innocent and vulnerable stage. Yours sincerely, Gerry Browne

Naughten’s position is ‘totally wrong’ Co. Roscommon Dear Editor, In regard to Denis Naughten’s failure to support either side on the referendum on the 8th Amendment (Roscommon People

18/5/18) he has stated that this is a deeply personal issue. In relation to his position as a minister this view is, in my opinion, totally wrong. If he were the leader of a political party he would have no option but to back one side or the other. He is in a completely different position to an ordinary voter. He has chosen not to show any leadership or risk offending any future voters, whether they are pro-life or pro-abortion supporters. The importance of a No vote on Friday cannot be overstated. We live in a world where human life is being constantly downgraded. The so-called Pro-Choice group will point to hard cases – like women travelling to England for abortions or problematic pregnancies – but it is a well known fact that legislating for hard cases always makes bad law. Yours sincerely, Michael Finnegan (Full address with Editor)

‘Abortions clearly harm women’ Strandhill Rd., Sligo Dear Editor, It is quite clear that abortion harms women. Sooner or later, the realisation of what has happened, perhaps in a moment of panic, strikes home. Bernadette from Cork for example, had an abortion at 10 weeks into her pregnancy. She said later “I was never told that abortion would lead to deep depression, that every time I heard a baby cry, it was like a knife turning in my heart”. She now counsels women with similar stories and some of these women’s experiences can be seen on such websites as ‘Women Hurt by Abortion’ and ‘Rachel’s Vineyard’. Women in a crisis pregnancy need support and a true compassion which looks beyond quick-fix ‘solutions’. The 8th Amendment underpins the only legal protection now available for the preborn children of Ireland. If it is repealed, our politicians will be given a blank cheque to do as they wish with our unborn children. Deep down, every Irish mother understands that each child is a unique, unrepeatable human being and not just someone’s ‘choice’. If you are still unsure how to vote in the referendum, can we urge you to please take a good look at what is really happening in the abortion clinics of England and of other ‘civilised’ countries. It certainly cannot be called ‘caring’, ‘compassionate’ or acceptable. We are definitely voting ‘No’! Yours faithfully, Anne and Eamon Fitzpatrick

Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy claimed on Wednesday that non-urgent, walk-in X-ray facilities at Roscommon Hospital were no longer available due to malfunctioning equipment. Deputy Murphy said he raised the matter with Minister for Health, Simon Harris, and sought clarification through a recent parliamentary question. “I became aware in recent weeks that many people were unable to have X-rays of the hip, spine, pelvis and abdomen carried out at the walk in X-ray facilities at Roscommon County Hospital. This was an excellent service and local GPs regularly referred patients into the walk-in facility. “However, I understand that some X-ray equipment malfunctioned in recent weeks beyond repair and the X-ray walk in service to which GPs refer patients directly for non-injury related conditions has been affected. X-rays of the chest can still be performed however non-urgent x-rays of the spine, pelvis, abdomen can no longer be carried out through this walk in service and GPS have been asked to refer patients to other hospitals in the region,” he said. “In a reply to my parliamentary question the Minister clarified that Roscommon Hospital was awarded funding for the replacement of General x-ray equipment in January 2018. I understand that the equipment was ordered earlier this year and infrastructural works are underway and it is hope that the new equipment will be in place by the end of July 2018,” Deputy Murphy concluded.

Nursing numbers ‘slashed in the west’ Sinn Féin spokesperson Claire Kerrane has said that in community nursing numbers in Galway, Roscommon, and Mayo are down by 429 and the number of nurses in hospitals in the region has also decreased. “In 2007, there were a total of 1,951 community nurses in CHO Area 2 which encompasses Roscommon, Galway, and Mayo, ten years later when these numbers should be increasing, we see a drop of 429 leaving a total number of community nurses for the entire area at 1,522. “In Roscommon Hospital itself we have seen a drop in community nurses from 128 in 2007 to 115 in 2017 with a drop from 1,399 to 1,316 at Galway University Hospital. Again, this comes at a time when Galway University Hospital is under immense pressure and even more so since the closure of the Accident & Emergency Unit at Roscommon. “The fact that the numbers of nursing staff is dropping while hospitals across the State are experiencing a massive emergency crisis which has been ongoing for some time speaks volumes. It all comes down to the fact that we cannot attract, recruit and retain nurses,” she said. Ms. Kerrane added that community nurses were “essential” in delivering frontline health care and questioned whether the Government was serious about implementing Sláintecare.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NewsPeople

Fond farewell to ‘much-loved pastor’, Bishop Christopher Jones  PAUL HEALY

Warm tributes have been paid to retired Bishop of Elphin, Bishop Christopher Jones (82), who died last week following a long illness. He was laid to rest on Tuesday in the grounds of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Sligo. Archbishop Eamonn Martin described the Roscommon native as a “much-loved pastor” and “a man for others” who worked tirelessly for the underprivileged and for rural development. Dr. Christopher Jones was Bishop of Elphin from 1994 until his retirement in 2014. A much-loved man, he was regarded as an accessible, friendly and passionate Church leader who was renowned for his great commitment to the underprivileged, to emigrants and to rural Ireland. He had been in ill health for a number of years, but had faced his illness with courage and faith. Archbishop Eamon Martin, who visited Bishop Jones on Easter Monday, said: “Christy was calm and at peace, conscious that he would soon be returning to God who called him to service all those years ago”. A native of Rathcroghan, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon, Christopher Jones was born on March 3rd 1936, the second youngest of a family of eleven. Four of his sisters entered religious life and one of his brothers was also a priest of the Diocese of Elphin. Educated at

Retired Bishop of Elphin, Bishop Christopher Jones (82), who died last week following a long illness pictured at Ballyleague National School in 2008. Picture: M. McCormack.

Rathcroghan NS and in Summerhill College in Sligo, he subsequently studied for the priesthood in Maynooth and was ordained on 21st of June, 1962. Apart from three years teaching at St. Muredach’s College, Ballina, Bishop

Jones spent his entire priestly ministry in Sligo. He taught in Summerhill College, Sligo in 1965 before returning there as Spiritual Director from 19731979. Having served for six years as Cu-

rate at Rosses Point, Fr. Jones was appointed Administrator of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Sligo. In 1994 he succeeded Dr. Dominic Conway and was ordained Bishop of Elphin, serving for twenty years.

Throughout his time as Bishop he was a tireless advocate for countless causes. His work with the Travelling community was seen as ground-breaking. The late Bishop Jones was a member of the Bishops’ Conference, and served for nine years as chair of the Episcopal Commission and Department for Pastoral Care. Bishop Jones also served for many years as chair of the Bishops’ Committee for Family Welfare and Children and was instrumental in the foundation of the Bishops’ Council for Marriage and the Family, on which he served as its first chairman. Bishop Jones also served as President of Accord, Catholic Marriage Care Service. He was also a Director of Cura, the crisis pregnancy agency. As a founder member of the Council for the West, he was a tireless advocate for rural development. He was a regular presence at Roscommon gatherings abroad. The Bishop Christopher Jones Learning Centre, a specialised unit catering for students with autism at Summerhill College, was opened, blessed and named in his honour in 2016. Bishop Jones retired on 13th of July 2014. He continued to live in Sligo. Since his retirement he suffered the loss of four of his sisters, Patricia, Pauline, Ann (Nan) and Mary. Bishop Jones is survived by his sister Eileen (Sisters of Jesus and Mary, Enniscrone), by his sister-in-law Pauline and by a number of nieces and nephews. May he rest in peace.

‘A proud Tulsk man’

The body of the late Bishop Jones lying in repose in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Sligo. Picture: Mary Regan

Diocesan priests carrying the coffin of Bishop Jones. Picture: Mary Regan

Archbishop Martin leads tributes to Bishop Jones Archbishop Eamon Martin paid tribute to the late Bishop Jones. “Fifty-six years of priesthood, and twenty-four years as a bishop, sums up a life of commitment, fidelity, service and love for the people, religious and priests of his home Diocese of Elphin. “Bishop Christy was a man for others, and was very committed throughout his lifetime to person-centred social services. Throughout his ministry, Bishop Christy also showed a great affinity and pastoral dedication to the Travelling community.

“Bishop Christy was a much-loved pastor, kind and caring. He had strong principles and was courageous in speaking his mind on many issues of the day”. Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran said the death of Bishop Christy is like the loss of a grandparent. “Up to the time of his retirement in July 2014, he worked tirelessly in the service of God and of the people of God, in this Diocese and further afield. He will be remembered by many for the way in which he put flesh on the Gospel through his

care for and friendship with those who were poor and most at risk in our society”. Fr. John Cullen, PP, Roscommon, said: “Christy was always inviting us to a time of quiet in which we truly encounter the presence of God in creation, to watch the slow turn of sunlight, the lap of water, to hear the music of the dawn and the hushed silence of the dusk. He was leading us to our God who was close to us and never distant…Christy was always leading people to faith. He encouraged

people to be reflective in the frantic, frenzied busyness of life today. “Bishop Christy was the youngest son of Christopher and Christine. So, all through his life, the name of Christ accompanied him, from both his parents’ names and his own baptismal name. Now that same Christ welcomes, befriends and calls him by name, ‘Christy’ – as one who served him and his people with humanity, holiness and humility, combined with a kind humour that showed how much he ‘delighted’ in God’s people”.

Cllr. Liam Callaghan described the late Bishop Christy Jones as a great advocate for the west of Ireland, and a voice for the more deprived in our community. “Bishop Jones worked closely with social services and he always encouraged that wealth and riches should not be used to determine one’s position in society. “Bishop Christy was a proud Tulsk man and was always a regular visitor to the family home in Rathcroghan and attended many social events in the parish. He was a highly regarded and popular cleric and was a founder member of the Council of the West”. Concluding, Cllr. Callaghan offered his sympathies to the extended Jones family and to the clergy. Senator Frank Feighan expressed his sadness at the news. “Bishop Jones was a good friend personally and he was held in huge regard by all who knew him. He was a very caring, compassionate person and was very much loved in the Diocese. “Such was his popularity and his innate ability to reach out to people, he was affectionately known as ‘Bishop Christy’. He was also a passionate advocate for Rural Ireland”.

WEEKEND PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

Ed was worth the wait… and the walk! DAN DOONER was so enthusiastic about seeing Ed Sheeran, he even turned up a day early! Most of the brownie points I had gained by buying ‘herself’ Ed Sheeran tickets as a birthday present quickly evaporated last Friday when we realised said tickets were for the following evening. Doh! “I got the day off you eejit!” was a term of endearment compared to some of the other vicious remarks levelled at yours truly. Thankfully, we finally made it to the Phoenix Park on Saturday, albeit at the expense of the FA Cup Final, which, in hindsight, was probably for the best!

Frustration and venom towards Phil Jones aside, we were all in good spirits as we arrived at the Yellow Entrance via Ashtown Gate. Outside, a woman in her 40s sat stubbornly in the grass as members of An Garda Síochána attempted to move her along. Judging by her all-round demeanour and some of the invective directed at the boys in blue, she must have been a Manchester United fan too. Safely inside, we quenched the thirst we had built up en route with lukewarm bottles of beer for €6 as Amerie did her best to keep everyone engaged – something Ed Sheeran wouldn’t have a problem with later on, judging by recent reports that up to 50 people had requested permission to pop the question on stage at one of the gigs – presumably not to the same person! Eventually it was time for Amerie to say goodbye, as excitement built ahead of Ed’s arrival. It’s been said before, but the Englishman has come a long way from busking on Shop Street. Here we were, all 50,000 of us, paying at least €80 to stand in the Phoenix Park to listen to him, his guitar and his loop pedals.

‘A Doll’s House’ comes to life in Roscommon Theatrical Niche Ltd., a theatre company based in Kent, are touring the UK and Ireland this summer with their production of ‘A Doll’s House’ and Roscommon Arts Centre are delighted to announce they will be performing at the centre on Tuesday, May 29th at 8 pm. This is a hugely relevant re-telling of Henrik Ibsen’s famous tale for modern audiences and is an exciting addition to the summer programme at the arts centre.

Mr. & Mrs. Helmer are the iconic power couple. They excel at work, staying on top, socialising. They excel at excelling. But as his autobiography rolls out around Christmastime, it seems there are a few things that Mr. Helmer may not have mentioned in the foreword. Exploring stigmas around gender expectations and mental health, this artful adaptation focuses on the impossible idolisation of one ‘perfect’ woman, by

a man who walks with weights around his ankles. Incorporating visually-stunning choreography, this contemporary version will rocket Ibsen’s famous tale into a hugely relevant re-telling for modern audiences. Theatre lovers of classical works and modern adaptations will not want to miss this spectacle. Tickets are available now from Roscommon Arts Centre on 090-66 25824/ www.roscommonartscentre.ie

In fairness, Ed was good, and had no problem keeping both young and old engaged for his entire set. In fact, judging by the regular cheers from the various sections of the makeshift arena, young and old people were getting engaged all over the place! The concert ended at some point shortly after 10.30 pm and the masses spilled out into the park. A young Dub with a megaphone told everyone where to go…in order to get the ‘LOO-AS’. This was my one and only gripe

“

Judging by the regular cheers from the various sections of the makeshift arena, young and old people were getting engaged all over the place!

with the whole thing (apart from the overpriced food and beverages you get at any event). Megaphones are all well and good but we were a long, long way from any LUAS. Ashtown is closer to Blanchardstown than it is to Parkgate Street. Those trying to get into the city centre had a bit of a trek ahead of them as taxis were kept outside. Luckily, neither one of us was wearing heels! While the concert was very enjoyable and it had turned out to be a great day weather-wise, one would have to question the wisdom of hosting these events in the Phoenix Park without offering adequate transportation to the thousands of (mainly young) people and families in attendance. Surely there are much more accessible venues available? That being said, Ed had a great time back in Ireland and certainly won many more admirers to add to his army of fans on the island. You’ve got to hand it to him; his music has made him an idol among millions of young fans worldwide, while grown men, presumably enchanted by his music, are queuing up to pop the question at his gigs!

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

WeekendPeople POLITICAL PEOPLE

They think it’s all over (it won’t be)  PAUL HEALY

It hasn’t gone away, you know – and, truth is, it won’t go away even after this Friday’s vote. The divisive and emotion-charged ‘abortion issue’ is a politically explosive topic for politicians, most of whom dread any mention of the subject. Yet, whatever happens this weekend, the issue will not be leaving the political agenda any time soon. If the people vote to retain the Eighth Amendment (maintaining the status quo) there will be bitterness and recriminations (from some quarters), and allegations that Ireland is turning a blind eye to suffering citizens, while continuing to ‘export’ or indeed ‘import’ solutions. If the people vote to repeal the Eighth Amendment there will be anger from some quarters and accusations that a liberal ‘abortion on demand’ regime is being created which will afford no protection to unborn babies. Stark divisions will remain. And political consequences will remain. If, for example, there’s a No vote, the Oireachtas will still feel a responsibility to address the current situation. If there’s a Yes vote, the Government will endeavour to bring in controversial legislation which will be opposed by many. Indeed, in the event of a Yes vote, there is the possibility of turmoil

within Fianna Fáil. That party is currently supporting the Fine Gael-led Government (through a ‘Confidence and Supply’ arrangement) but is deeply divided on the abortion issue. If the people vote No, FF leader Micheál Martin will have been on the losing side, but he will be able to argue that there was a free vote in his party. However, if the people vote Yes, many FF backbenchers will fiercely oppose any suggestion that the party should endorse what they see as a liberal abortion regime being legislated for by the Government they are keeping in power. Locally, as revealed in last week’s Roscommon People, none of the sitting TDs in this constituency are openly advocating a Yes vote. On the contrary, Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice (Independent) and Deputy Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fáil) are on the No side. Independent TD and Government Minister Denis Naughten has chosen to keep his views to himself. He says this is a deeply personal issue and that it’s not up to politicians to influence voters on this one. Some people will fully agree with that position – and respect it too. Many others will see his stance as a cop-out, even politically opportunist. One suspects that, like their peers nationwide, our local TDs will be glad when this referendum campaign is over, when the votes are finally cast.

There will be some clarity by Saturday night. There will be joy, sadness, anger, relief…different emotions felt by people on this incredibly important

but complex issue. There will be some clarity, some sense of moving on, but it won’t have gone away, you know.

Feighan in Capitol Hill…

Senator Frank Feighan pictured with Congressman Joe Kennedy in Capitol Hill during a recent trip to Washington to remember and renew the Good Friday Agreement on its 20th anniversary.

No justice in this, Charlie! Businessman Andrew Reynolds, now an LAR (Local Area Representative) for Fine Gael, has risked testing the patience of one of his own party’s senior figures! Mr. Reynolds, who intends to contest the next local elections in Roscommon, has taken a dim view of Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan’s position on dormant Garda stations in County Roscommon. He was “disappointed and disheartened” to hear Minister Flanagan say, “on a brief visit to the county last week”, that he was not in a position to make any firm announcement on re-opening local Garda stations. Mr. Reynolds noted that Tarmonbarry Garda Station remains closed while there had been a reduction of hours in the Garda stations in Rooskey and Strokestown. Mr. Reynolds has now called on Minister Flanagan to reopen Garda stations across County Roscommon. If that’s not “possible,” he wants the Minister to consider a locallybased service utilising local community centres and halls, offering a drop-in service. Mr. Reynolds elaborated: “This service would need to be backed up by more Garda patrol cars and a higher visible Garda presence in the locality. “These issues have been discussed by Senator Frank Feighan and Senator Maura Hopkins on numerous occasions and I trust a solution will be forthcoming”.

World class showjumping in Ballinasloe this weekend Ballinasloe Horse and Agricultural Show Ltd. are hosting a three-day programme of showjumping in Ballinasloe Show Grounds –including the prestigious New Heights Champions Series – from Friday 25th to Sunday 27th of May. It promises to be a fantastic weekend, with €30,000 in prize-money and 900 riders and 1,000 horses in action! Entry for spectators is free. The New Heights Champions Series, a joint venture between Show Jumping Ireland and Horse Sport Ireland, replaces the Premier Series which had been the pinnacle of National Showjumping in Ireland for the past ten years. The series boasts an overall prize fund of over €110,000 and will take place at 10 locations across the four provinces. This year there is a new competition RDS Puissance Qualifier with a prize fund of €2,000. In a statement, the committee said: “Ballinasloe Show is one of the last show venues that is located in the middle of a town and run by a voluntary committee, as opposed to an equestrian centre. “Without sponsorship it would be impossible to run a show of this calibre. Each year the show has evolved and we have developed it year on year. “We are particularly proud to have the RDS puissance qualifier this year. This is a show that has been synonymous with puissance jumping dating back to the 1960s with the late, great Tommy Wade, Seamus Hayes and many more competing over

what was then a stone wall. “We hope to see a great turnout of horses and riders competing over the weekend. All are welcome”. Sponsors thanked John Harney, Chairperson of Ballinasloe Horse and Agricultural Show Ltd., would like to thank the very generous sponsors of the Ballinasloe Grand Prix Showjumping weekend to be held from Friday, May 25th to Sunday, May 27th in the Showgrounds. Thanks to Arrabawn Dairies, Barry Taylor Cycles, Ballinasloe Credit Union, Cormac Rafferty, Dolan’s Centra, Devenish Nutrition, Darren Goode (Accountant), Easyfix, Equine Engineering, Fr. Christy McCormack, Gain Feed, Garbal¬ly Oil, Glenn Wood, Holmestead Saddlery, Horse Sport Ireland, Sean Hogarty’s Paint, Jim Derwin (international horse dealer), Jeremy Stanley Farrier, Paschal Conroy and Joe Cavanagh (Masters of East Galway Hunt), Paddy Keane Auctioneers, Lissegan Stables (owned by Damien Griffin), Liffey Meats, Mannion Quarries, Minister Denis Naughten, Moyvally Meats, Mooney Engineering, Parkmore Electric, Pillar House Bar & Restaurant, Pat Dolan Agri, PJ Kenny Bedding, Rumbles Restaurants, The McGuire family, Station House Hotel (Clifden), TRM, Tool and Plastic Ltd., and all others who have supported the event.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

WeekendPeople

Miriam’s MUSINGS Abortion: Is it the most burning moral issue of our generation? Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Siobhan Parkinson

Arts Centre set for ‘Bookworms’ Festival Roscommon Arts Centre is gearing up to take part in this year’s Bookworms Festival for children in June, with a busy programme of events planned for school and family audiences. From Wednesday, June 6th-Friday, June 9th, there are three great daytime events, geared towards children from 3-12 years old. As we’re entering into World Cup fever at this year’s festival, the opening performance is a football themed one! ‘Keepy Uppy’ follows the adventures of football mad Joey and his Mum on their big day, the highpoint of the season... Joey’s Cup Final Day! Aimed at children aged 5 and over, this promises to ignite young imagination from kickoff to final whistle! Kids are encourage to wear their club, county, Ireland jerseys or favourite football strips for this one as the theatre is turned into the stands of a football field! As this is a literary event, the arts centre is thrilled this year to be hosting children’s author Siobhan Parkinson at the arts centre on Thursday, June 7th. Siobhan will be discussing her work and speaking about her latest book ‘Rocking the System’ in sessions that are particularly designed for sixth class students. During these informal sessions, students will also have the opportunity to discuss with Siobhan what authors they like and ask her about her life as a writer. On Friday the festival turns its attention to younger audience members with three performances throughout the day of ‘Whatever the Weather’, a new adventure for children aged 3-5. A show about courage, trying new things and stepping outside, come meet Worried Wendy and help her discover there’s nothing to fear – whatever the weather! Championing the writing of new work, the recipient of this year’s ‘First Edition’ commission, Julie Sharkey, invites audiences to preview her new work for young audiences ‘An Ant called Amy’ at the arts centre on Saturday, June 9th, while artist Nollaig Molloy’s workshop ‘Things Tell Stories Too’ will show how clay and other construction materials can be used to tell and illustrate stories. Bookworms Children’s Literary Festival is part of Roscommon County Council’s Arts Services programme. For more information on festival events check out www.roscommonartscentre. ie

At the time of writing, and as campaigning continues on behalf of both sides who were desperately hoping to target the undecided voter, the Sunday Business Post/Red C poll indicated that ‘56% are in favour of voting to repeal the Eighth Amendment’. This would suggest the ‘Yes’ camp is slightly ahead of the ‘No’ side. Now it is not my intention to preach to readers, nor indeed would I ever advocate here for either side, or even hint as to where I personally stand on this highly emotive and divisive issue. You see, even though this column is based on my ‘musings’, when it comes to this particular referendum, I do not wish to blur the lines between what is, and what always has been entrenched in my heart, and on my conscience, (directly in relation to this referendum’s subject matter), and what is considered to be fair and objective comment; meaning, before Ireland, and indeed our beautiful Roscommon goes to the polls, I’m not airing my viewpoint on this specific issue inside the pages of what I believe to be this unbiased and wholly fair, balanced and objective family publication.

I will say though that those who’re close to me are in no doubt whatsoever regarding my thoughts on abortion and those friends who have changed their profile pictures on social media, (they are entitled to do so) and bombarded me with slogans, leaflets, and targeted efforts to try to force me to get on board with their campaign – (not entitled to do this, and foot soldiers for both sides are guilty of this manipulative behaviour), have all been told to pee off! Okay, I used less ladylike language. I have been sent numerous private messages with what you could deem as persuasive images and arguments from both sides by friends; many of whose notifications I have ‘rested’ until after this referendum; some have been ‘blocked,’ (ah the beauty of FB’s block button), because I will not be bullied or harassed into allowing anyone to attempt to reform, modify or reshape my mind, and my conscience. Campaigners knocking on my door (from either side) are shown the gate! My own social media profile picture remains the same as it always has, and every so often I will

place a ‘like’ on what I feel to be a fair or balanced post, or indeed I will share and make a comment on my own status regarding something that has resonated with me, but I will not engage in debate on social media regarding this referendum, nor will I change my profile picture to either reflect ‘Repeal,’ ‘Together for Yes,’ or to ‘Save the 8th,’ or ‘LoveBoth’. I’m a grown woman, an educated woman (I’d like to hope) and it appears that many individuals, both men and women, are displaying so much pent-up anger, (I’ve witnessed public arguments in the streets), and holding inside so much bile and bitterness, carrying so much overwhelming and heart-shredding emotion, that whatever way this vote goes, and whether you’re being labelled a so-called ‘baby killer’ or so-called ‘tyrannical religious despot,’ for your (entitled) views on this referendum, I fear, whichever side ‘wins,’ the resulting fall-out from this landmark, single political question, may prove catastrophic for us as a society overall. Good luck Ireland; I hope we get it right!

All aboard the ‘RMS Couldn’t Give a Damn!

Minister Simon Harris and An Taoiseach, Leo Varadakar

I’ve got some questions readers….How do you tear down our health service and make it fit for purpose? How do you make major reforms to its governance structure and tailor them in such a way as to maintain a professional service? I only ask because Leo and Simon’s much-hyped ‘new era’ proposal to structurally reform the HSE as being the way forward sounds great on paper, but, ahem, isn’t it just a load of bulls**t? You see, this is not a reform; it’s a restoration of a system that was abolished back in 2012! I’m personally sick of the matter of fact way this government is dealing with our ailing health service; I’m sick of the bureaucratic language contained in all of their statements, I’m sick of the patronising, ‘we know best’ attitude and the stage-managing of taxpayers’ intelligence, and I’m on to their let’s ride it out, see what happens and in the meantime, book ourselves first class tickets on the RMS Couldn’t Give a Damn! You fecked up folks, and telling us the board will be able to “act like a check between the executive and the Government” as if it’s a new and brilliant idea is fooling nobody. You’re backtracking to try and cover up a mistake you all made years ago!

It’s that time again… The State exams are upon us and I want to wish every single student due to sit either their Junior or Leaving Cert the very best of luck. My advice would be to get some much-deserved rest; try to clear your mind of distractions and approach each exam with confidence. Once inside the exam hall, have a strategy that includes you thoroughly reading each question, then reading it again. Choose the questions you’re going to answer, and write those answers clearly and legibly, making sure they are all relevant to the questions being asked; and, where requested, make sure your notes are visible in the margins. Once the exam is over, forget the postmortem, it’s gone, it’s out of your hands. Move on and concentrate on the next paper. Ádh mór, bonne chance, best of luck. You’ll do great.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

WeekendPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Last Sunday, we celebrated the sending of the Spirit, which sealed God’s new covenant and made a new creation. In this new creation, we live in the family of God, who has revealed Himself as a Trinity of love. We share in His divine nature through His Body and Blood (2 Peter 1:4). This is the meaning of the three feasts that cap the Easter season – Pentecost, Trinity Sunday, and Corpus Christi. These feasts should be intimate reminders of how deeply God loves us, how He chose us, from before the foundation of the world, to be His children (Ephesians 1:4–5). Today’s readings illuminate how all God’s words and works were meant to prepare for the revelation of the Trinity and God’s blessing in Jesus Christ – the blessing we inherited in Baptism and renew in each Eucharist. By God’s word the heavens and earth were filled with His kindness, we sing in today’s Psalm. Out of love, God called Abraham and chose his descendants to be His own people, Moses says in today’s First Reading (Deuteronomy 4:20,37). Through the Israelites, He revealed to the nations that He alone is Lord and there is no other. In Jesus, God’s word took flesh as a son of Abraham (Matthew 1:1). And Jesus reveals in the Gospel today that the one God is Father, Son, and Spirit, and that He desires to make all people His own. As He led Israel out of Egypt, God freed us from slavery, Paul says in today’s Epistle. As He adopted Israel (Romans 9:4), He gives us the Spirit by which we can know Him as “Our Father”. As God’s heirs, we receive the commissions of Moses and Jesus today. We are to fix our hearts on Him and to observe all that He has commanded. The Eucharist is His pledge that He will be with us until the end, that He will deliver us from death to live forever in the promised land of His kingdom. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www. salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

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No Stones left unturned in frantic attempt to locate Ed tickets!

Wonderful weather! I am finishing this piece on the most beautiful Tuesday evening, with the sun shining brightly, and everything looking great. Once again, having just returned from a lovely walk up Lenamarla, I realise that when the weather is nice, there is no better place to be in the world than this little island. Let’s hope it’s just the start and may we have a summer that we will remember for many years for all the right reasons.

And finally…

What a week we have had on the entertainment front with Ed Sheeran finishing off his nine-show tour of Ireland, during which he performed to 400,000 people (and grossed earnings of about €35 million) and as soon as he was finishing up in came four legendary rockers, the Rolling Stones, who I’m told absolutely blew 70,000 fans away in their Croke Park gig. I have to say that, in their different ways, I regard both acts as heroes. How one man and a guitar can put on such a wonderful show as the English-born redhead, Sheeran, always does (so I’m told) is quite astonishing, but it’s nearly more amazing that four elderly (I’m being kind) gentlemen whose combined ages total 294 years, with the youngest member of the group a mere 70 years young, can still wow an audience of 70,000 people. A lad I know who is a full-on Stones fan, and who has been to several of their shows down the years, told me that the gig in Croker was as good as he had ever seen or heard. It seems that like good wine they are getting better with age. Anyway, back to Ed Sheeran, and last Sunday week my daughter went back to Dublin and inadvertently left an envelope with three tickets to the Wednesday night concert sitting on the mantelpiece in our sitting room. There was a small panic, but then we remembered there is a Post

Office service called Express Post that (I am quoting directly from the receipt that I got) is guaranteed to get your delivery to its destination in the Republic of Ireland the next working day. And so, shortly after 9 am on last Monday morning, I paid the €8.25 fee in the Post Office and off went my three tickets to Dublin, and off I went home happy in the knowledge that, yet again, I had come to the rescue and another mini-crisis had been averted. Tuesday came and went, and when no tickets had made it to D15 there was no panic whatsoever – they would surely make it on Wednesday. My daughter was working through the night and when she got home about 11 am on the Wednesday and no letter had arrived, the alarm bells (and my mobile phone) began to ring. Thanks to Claire in our local PO I had kept my receipt, which had a tracking number, and so I began a series of phone calls to the Dublin phone number thereon, and I found out that it had definitely got as far as Dublin 12, but there the trail ended. As I write this on Monday evening of this week, seven and a half days later, that is where the tale ends. Why it never got to D15 they had no idea, but they promised they would look into it; that was last Friday and the very nice girl in Dublin that I spoke to just now has come to the conclu-

sion that the letter is lost and unlikely to turn up at this stage. Even if it does, the concert is long over and the tickets would not be much use. In fairness, she told me how to go about getting my €8.25 back. I am very well aware that no blame lies with anyone in our local post office, and indeed I suppose no blame really lies with anyone, but all that surprises me is that in 2018 we cannot be sure that a letter posted in Creggs will make it to Dublin. Several people have said to me that if I had sent it by ordinary post (costing one euro) it would probably have got there, but I suppose we’ll never know. All I can say is my experience with Express Post has left me less than impressed. However, remarkably, there was a twist in the tale, as a friend advised me to send an email to Ticketmaster explaining my predicament, and some time after 3 o’clock on Wednesday evening I sent off my first communication. Several emails later I am delighted to tell you that the three tickets were re-printed and my daughter and her friends made it to the concert, and after all the drama, they said it – of course – was the best ever. So all’s well that ends well, and while I have heard the odd criticism of Ticketmaster, I must say they were extremely helpful to us and went out of their way to ensure the matter was sorted out in a satisfactory manner.

Finally for this week, as the rugby season draws to a close, it’s huge congratulations to Denis Buckley who has the massive honour of being in the Barbarians squad for Sunday’s match against the might of England in Twickenham. As a long-time admirer of the Connacht prop I have to say that it’s a long overdue and welldeserved honour. The tradition of the BaaBaas, and their commitment to attacking, running rugby goes back a long way, and they have been involved in some of the best and most entertaining rugby games of all time. Denis of course is a native of Roscommon town, and played out here in Creggs at underage level, so it’s great news for this entire area. Rumour has it he may be wearing a Creggs sock in Twickers on Sunday. If that is the case, it will be something else to see a Creggs sock being worn on the hallowed ground of the home of English rugby. Socks aside, it is a great honour for the young Roscommon lad and we all congratulate him and wish him well.

Till next week, Bye for now!

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

WeekendPeople

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s were Maurice Griffin, Martina Griffin, Catherine Kelleher and Donal Kelleher.

Faces & Places

Photographs: Andrew Fox

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s were Mary Finn, Annmarie Coyle and Patricia Mulvin.

JJ Harlow’s, Roscommon

Pictured (above) in JJ Harlow’s were Alex Lopez, Kayleigh DeJong and James O’Connor.

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s were Kevin O’Connor, Molly Tuttle and Monica O’Connor.

Pictured (right) in JJ Harlow’s were Tom Hogan and Alex Lopez.

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s were back row (l-r) Aidan Lavin, Deirdre Roddy, Kevin O’Connor, Molly Tuttle, Padraig Roddy and John Flynn. Front row (l-r) Trudy Lavin, Monica O’Connor and Majella Flynn.

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s were Evan Gilleran and Charlotte Hughes.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

Loughglynn Music Festival Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

Cllr. NIGEL

DINEEN INDEPENDENT

BALLINTOBER, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON Phone: 086 2130723 Email: nigel.dineen@hotmail.com Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

COLEMAN’S SHOP & POST OFFICE

●

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FORESTRY THINNINGS FOR SALE – Suitable for Firewood, Stakes, etc LOUGHGLYNN, CO. ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: 094 9880001 Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success

The Village Inn Loughglynn Tel: 094 98 80015 Live music throughout the weekend

Friday 1st June

STUART MOYLES Saturday 2nd June

IMPULSE Sunday 3rd June

MARY ROSE + ENDA

Queen of the Woodlands 2018

A musical June Bank Holiday in Loughglynn! The 21st annual Loughglynn Music Festival takes place over the June Bank Holiday weekend (Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd) this year with top class music right across weekend. As ever, members of the organising committee have gone to great lengths to ensure that this year’s line-up is bigger and better than ever. The event acts as the main fundraiser for Loughglynn Community Centre and is supported by IPB Insurance, Roscommon County Council and Fáilte Ireland. Among the talented performers in attendance this

Friday, 1st June - Monday, 4th June

year will be Country Music stars Derek Ryan and Declan Nerney. Derek Ryan and his band will kick the festival off on Friday, June 1st from 11 pm with a great night of dancing. Declan Nerney will take centre stage on the Saturday night, also from 11 pm. Derek Ryan is no stranger to these parts and he is back this year by popular demand. With two Irish number 1 albums, sell-out shows at home and abroad and a number of music awards to his name, music fans are in for a great night on Friday week. Declan Nerney is a per-

e Festival een of the Woodlands Ros Pictured at the 2017 Qu : James Creaton (sponsor), 2017 Rose in Loughglynn were (l-r) committee members Annette Morris Niamh Niland, Lisacul andes Hunt Photography and OIivia Doory. Pic: Jam

former who needs no introduction, so bring your dancing shoes on Saturday night as this legend of Irish Country Music performs his many hits until late. Sunday night will see the selection of the 21st Queen of the Woodlands from 9 pm. See details on opposite page. Dancing will commence at 11 pm each night of the festival and there will be a late bar. The committee invites you to Loughglynn this weekend for what promises to be another memorable music festival and Queen of the Woodlands!

Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

Éire Óg GAA Club Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

Eugene Murphy TD Elphin Street, Strokestown Office 071 9633000

EMAIL: eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie ●

Please phone for appointment ●

Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

Forde Bros BALLINLOUGH LTD. Aluminium & uP.V.C. Doors, Windows, Patios & Conservatories, Curtain Walling

The 2016 Rose Kate Egan is presented with a piece of crystal by Cllr. Michael Creaton at last year’s event. Pic: James Hunt Photography

• ALL OF OUR WINDOWS AND DOORS HAVE INTERNAL GLAZING

• We supply double and triple glazing – whichever our customer requires • All our doors are secured with 5-point locks

Tel/Fax: 094 964 0525 Mobile: 086 8120324 Declan Nerney will take centre stage on the Saturday night.

Email:fordebrosltd@hotmail.com

Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

Pat Lavin PLANT HIRE Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2515907 Hedgecutting (Saw and Flail) ● Round Baling ● Trailing Shoe Slurry Spreading ●

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

Loughglynn Music Festival

Friday, 1st June - Monday, 4th June

Queen of the Woodlands 2018

Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

The Brusna Inn Bar, Lounge & Grocery Brusna, Ballaghaderreen

Rebecca Finan, Loughglynn Sponsor: Eire Og GAA

Rebecca Maxwell, Lisacul Sponsor: The Fiddlers Elbow, Ballaghaderreen

Erika Webb, Ballyhaunis Sponsor: The Village Inn, Loughglynn

Who will be 2018 Queen of the Woodlands? O

Lisa McIntyre Cloonarrow, Castlerea Sponsor: Boland’s Bar, Fairymount

n Sunday, June 3rd, the

‘Queen of the Woodlands’ committee invites you to the 2018 Queen of the Woodlands selection night in Loughglynn. Nine fantastic contestants will be put through their paces to see who will be crowned the champion of 2018. The contestants will take to the stage to be interviewed by popular compere, Gerry Glennon, from 9 pm. At midnight the winner will be crowned by our 2017 Queen, Niamh Niland, followed by live music by The Heebie Jeebies Band. We are marking our 21st year of The Queen of the Woodlands

event by inviting all our past contestants and winners back to a celebration party and a trip down memory lane with past video clips as well as old photos and memorabilia showcased on the night. This popular annual event promises to be an enjoyable evening for all the family. Please come out and support our beautiful Queens and meet up with past winners and past contestants. Come along early to get a good seat and to avail of our special admission rate before 11 pm. Stay and enjoy the dance and avail of the late bar.

Tel: 094 986 0124 or 086 0777197 Live entertainment every weekend Function room available FREE for all parties and occasions Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

CLLR. MICHAEL CREATON Contact me anytime on: (086) 3647435 OR (094) 98 80076 CLOONARD, LOUGHGLYNN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Your Local Councillor in Roscommon/Castlerea Electoral Area

Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Elizabeth Loftus Loughglynn Sponsor: Tony & Ann Coleman, Loughglynn

Supporting jobs in the local community in Castlerea

Tel: (094) 96 21515 Fax: (094) 96 21520 Email: infoeu@harmac.com Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from Michael, Maria and family

Michael Fitzmaurice TD

Rachel Smyth Ballintubber Sponsor: Garvey’s Bar, Ballintubber

Meaveen Greene Lisacul Sponsor: Creaton’s Bar, Lisacul

Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

Councillor

Domnick

CONNOLLY (INDEPENDENT)

Please call me any time on n

087 2451267 CLLR. DOMNICK CONNOLLY… Standing by the people Email: cllrdconnolly@roscommoncoco.ie

Niamh O’Donnell Brusna Inn Sponsor: Tom Gordon Plant Hire

Zoe Kerrane Frenchpark Sponsor: Harmac Medical

Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success from

Creaton’s SHOP & PUB Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 094 98 80124

086 1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie SENATOR

MAURA HOPKINS Wishing the Loughglynn Music Festival continued success

CONTACT MAURA:

086 856 4206 maura.hopkins@oir.ie @maurahopkinsfg @hopkins_maura

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

WeekendPeople

Hamrock’s Traditional Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel.: (090) 6663325 Friday, 25th May:

Trad Session (Bar) All musicians, singers and story tellers welcome Saturday, 26th May:

Frank Nelson

Music Session in Hamrock’s of Athleague A Traditional Music Session will be held in Hamrock’s Bar, Athleague, Co. Roscommon, this Friday night, 25th of May,

2018, starting at 10 pm and continuing ‘till late. Musicians, singers, etc., and music lovers all welcome on the night. There

will be a raffle on the night with spot prizes to be won. Come along and enjoy the ceol, caint agus craic.

Telephone: 090 6626225 Saturday 26th May:

Babz & Chris Sunday 27th May:

Pictured at the Garda Síochána Dinner Dance on Saturday night last in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Conor Egan, Clodagh McInerney, Peter Burke, Sarah Egan, Ellen Egan, Jack Sutcliffe, Ali Burke and Andrew Peters. Front row: Frank and Laura Egan.

Pictured at the Garda Síochána Dinner Dance on Saturday night last in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Tyrone and Edel Tobin.

Faces & Places Garda Dinner Dance Proceeds to Aisling Duggan Memorial Fund Photographs: Andrew Fox

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

BEER OF THE

Pictured at the Garda Síochána Dinner Dance on Saturday night last in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Gerry Gibbons, Fidelma Brennan, Karen Grogan and Kevin Sexton.

WEEK! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries i Pictured at the Garda Síochána Dinner Dance on Saturday night last in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Fr. John McManus, Nicola and Gareth Scahill and Aidan Kneafsey.

Pictured at the Garda Síochána Dinner Dance on Saturday night last in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Rosaleen Harrison and Con Closh.

Property People Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

NEWS…& VIEWS Sold! REA Carthy sales on Wednesday REA Carthy is delighted to confirm that No. 2, Church Road, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon – a three-bedroomed property – sold in an online auction on Wednesday, reaching the reserve price. Meanwhile, No. 25, Riverwalk, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (a two-bedroomed apartment) also sold, exceeding reserve price.

‘A little piece of paradise in Kilteevan!’ This charming fourbedroomed residence in excellent condition stands on a large mature site located approximately 2.5 miles from Roscommon town in the much soughtafter area of Kilteevan. It’s on the books of Ivan Connaughton Auctioneer. Adjoining the residence is an annex which has huge potential for development and a detached garage with roller door (c.26 ft. x 14 ft.). There is also a greenhouse/conservatory adjoining the annex which is also plumbed. This property is a little piece of paradise with many original features. The annex to the rear has exposed stone walls and has an abundance of character which can be developed into a variety of uses, from office space to accommodation. It’s wired and plumbed and ready for

private. There are laid lawns to the front with a host of greenery leading from the gated entrance pathway to the front door. UPVC double-glazed

windows throughout. Septic tank on site. Accommodation includes, ground floor; reception hallway, sitting room, living/dining room,

kitchen, utility, sun lounge, bedrooms (two in all) with ensuite bathroom and main bathroom. There are two additional bedrooms on the first floor with huge potential to expand. This cottage is a must for viewing for anyone who is looking for something unique and yet is reasonably priced in today’s market. Surprisingly large for a cottage, the floor area totals just over c. 1,500 sq. ft. with an additional c.600 sq. ft. between annex & greenhouse/ conservatory. The potential is unlimited for this property for an array of uses from a family home to perhaps a retirement haven. For further details and to arrange your appointment contact the office on 0906663700 or email info@ ivanconnaughton.com

42 SHANNON VALLEY, BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON

52 WESTVIEW, CLOONFAD, CO. ROSCOMMON

BALLINLOUGH, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

This charming four-bedroomed residence in excellent condition stands on a large mature site located approximately 2.5 miles from Roscommon town in the much sought-after area of Kilteevan.

conversion to the potential purchaser’s own taste. The rear garden has an array of mature trees, hedging, shrubs and flowers and is fully Licence No.: 001955

Glinsk farm fetches €250,000 Sean Naughton Auctioneer is delighted to confirm the sale of a 38-acre farm at Glinsk, Co. Galway, which fetched a price of €250,000. Sean describes the lands as 28 acres of good quality and 10 acres of fair quality land.

Wanted – up to ﬁfty acres in Elphin area! John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley is this week seeking lands for a cash client in the general Elphin area of Roscommon. John Earley (FIPAV) commented: “Due to recent demand, we are actively seeking c. 20-50 acres of lands for disappointed underbidders and a cash client in the greater Elphin area. Replies are dealt with in the strictest of confidence and we welcome all submissions”. For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

Entries sought for ‘Pub of Year’

Following the very successful launch of the Irish Pub Awards last year, entries for the second Irish Pub of the Year Awards 2018 are now open and entries should be submitted to the dedicated website: www.irishpubawards.ie before 1st June next. These awards nationally recognise the diversity, quality and innovation amongst the Pubs of Ireland. The Irish Pub of the Year Awards are open to all members of the VFI and LVA. There are nine categories in all. Judging will take place during June, July and August. Regional winners across each category will be announced at seven regional finals around Ireland during September and early October. See www.irishpubawards.ie

14 RIVERSIDE, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

CREGGAHARNA, TAUGHMACONNELL, CO. ROSCOMMON

• 2 bedroom apartment extending to c.790 sq.ft.

• 3 bedroom traditional style cottage situated approx. 20km North of Ballinasloe • Standing on circa 0.4 acre site with off street parking and detached garage • Property has been modernised in the last number of years, folio RN38529F BER F. AMV €30,000. OPEN VIEW SAT 11:00 – 11:30pm

5 Mary Street, Galway N91 NXW0 • Tel. 091 564 212 / 091 562 681 Email: info@odj.ie • Web: http://www.odonnjoyce.com Winner in 2016 and finalists of the Irish Independent Regional Excellent Awards 2015, 2016 and 2017

OVER 50 PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN OUR ‘WILD ATLANTIC WAY’ AUCTION on Friday 8th June at 2pm, Harbour Hotel, New Dock Road, Galway

• 3 bedroom semi-detached house extending to approx. 1,200 sq.ft. • Situated close to all Ballaghaderreen amenities and services • Ideal starter home or investment property BER C2. AMV €45,000. OPEN VIEW SAT 3:45 – 4:15pm

• 4 bedroom semi-detached house located within walking distance of Cloonfad Village • Off street parking to the front and a private garden to the rear • Ideal starter home or investment property BER: C3. AMV €45,000. OPEN VIEW SAT 12:45 – 1:15 pm

• 3 bedroom end of terrace residence with large rear garden and shed • Situated in the village of Ballinlough located close to Ballyhaunis and Castlerea • Requires refurbishment throughout but has potential. BER E2. AMV €30,000. OPEN VIEW SAT 1:45 – 2:15pm

• Located in the centre of Castlerea town just off the main street • Ideal starter home or investment property BER D2. AMV €25,000. OPEN VIEW SAT 2:45 – 3:15pm

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

PropertyPeople Advertorial

Attractive townhouse

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

FINAL OFFERS AT

BEECHWOOD, KILTEEVAN Circa 28 acres of Land with a number of Horse Stables. The Lands are located only 2 miles from Roscommon Town and are contained in one block. Most of the Lands are of top quality with excellent road frontage. The Lands have the benefit of a number of horse stables and stores. For further details contact the Office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE AT

BALLAGH, KILROOSKEY An attractive bungalow which is being readvertised due to cancellation. The residence is located in RE- ADVERTISED DUE a prominent location. TO CANCELLATION For further details contact the Office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE AT

THE WALK, ROSCOMMON An attractive 4 bedroomed bungalow located at The Walk, Roscommon. The residence is on a large corner site with large Garage to the rear. The residence is in excellent condition. Accommodation consists of a Sitting Room, Kitchen Cum Dining Room, Large Utility, 4 Bedrooms with one En- Suite, Bathroom and a Large Garage to the rear. The residence Is located a short distance from Roscommon Town Centre and close to all local amenities. Pat is accepting the first offer of €200,000 for this fine property. VIEWING IS A MUST. For further details contact the Office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE – NEW TO THE MARKET Circa 42 acres at

COOLNAGEER, CURRAGHBOY in one block. All of the lands are of top quality with excellent handling facilities, well fenced and mains water. The land are situated a short distance from Curraghboy Village and have been re-seeded last year. Must be of interest to local farmers looking to increase their holding or someone looking to acquire a compact farm of top quality land. LEGAL:- MR. MARK CONNELLAN, SOLICITOR, NO. 3 CHURCH STREET, LONGFORD. ------------------------------------------------------------------------

SITE FOR SALE – ON OFFER ON THE

BALLINAGARD ROAD, ROSCOMMON Large site with the benefit of full Planning Permission for a 2 Storey residence. Both Sites are ready to go at present. Every offer in excess of €60,000 is been considered for this site which is located in one of Roscommon’s most sought after areas and has the benefit of mains water & sewer. For further information contact the office on 090 6627003.

Hughes & Company are confirming that they are accepting final offers on an attractive three-bedroomed townhouse at Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. The property has a large yard to the rear with access from the Mart Road. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Sale of 42 acres at ‘advanced stage’ Pat Hughes is confirming that Hughes & Co. are at an advanced stage of negotiations on circa 42 acres of top quality land which they recently put on the market at Coolnageer, Curraghboy. The lands are located in one block, have excellent handling facilities, have all been re-seeded in the last two years and are fenced by mains electric fence. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Attractive bungalow with breathtaking view of castle This week Hughes & Company have on offer at Gallowstown, Boyle Road, Roscommon a very attractive five-bedroomed dormer bungalow on a large site with breathtaking views of Roscommon town and castle. The residence consists of a kitchen, utility, dining room, sitting room, two large bedrooms downstairs, toilet with shower and wash hand basin and a single bedroom. Upstairs has two large bedrooms and a bathroom. The residence stands on circa half-acre site. Viewing by appointment on 0906627003.

Kilrooskey bungalow is ‘exceptional value’ This week Hughes & Company have readvertised a three-bedroomed bungalow at Kilrooskey, Roscommon. The property is being re-advertised due to a cancelled sale. The property needs to be modernised. Pat will accept offers in excess of €60,000 for this residence. The building itself is approximately 40 years old, is well-located and exceptional value for money. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Located in Ballyleague/Lanesboro and overlooking Lough Ree Advertorial

A property that must be viewed! Ivan Connaughton Auctioneer (Athleague) is offering at a reduced price this eight-bedroomed residence located in Ballyleague/Lanesboro and overlooking Lough Ree. This prime property is on a circa one-acre site. It has huge potential for further development and woud be suitable for many markets from a family home to perhaps a Bed & Breakfast. Viewing is highly recommended to fully appreciate its sheer size and the quality of the location. Residence one comprises: porch to front, reception hallway, sitting room, kitchen, living/dining room, four bedrooms (with one en-suite) and

bathroom, with the potential to develop first floor into three additional rooms. Residence two comprises – ground floor: reception hallway, sitting room, kitchen/dining/ living room, utility, bedroom with ensuite. First floor: three bedrooms in all with two ensuite bathrooms. Viewing of this property comes highly recommended. For further details and to arrange your appointment contact the office on 090-66 63700 or Ivan on 086-8985013 out of office hours or alternatively email info@ivanconnaughton.com.

LAUNCH OF THREE NEW FAMILY HOMES NOW TAKING BOOKINGS OFF PLANS Construction to commence in June 2018

Final offers sought for 28 acres with horse stables Hughes & Company are now accepting final offers on circa 28 acres of land at Beechwood, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon. The lands come with the benefit of six horse stables and a large loose open shed. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Top quality lands at Lysterﬁeld, Curraghboy Hughes & Company are now inviting final offers on circa 18 acres of top quality land at Lysterfield, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon. The lands are located in one block a short distance off the main Curraghboy to Roscommon Road and less than one mile from the village of Curraghboy. The lands have the benefit of access to three roads with excellent road frontage and would have development potential, subject to planning permission being granted. The lands have the benefit of their own electrical & mains water supply and the auctioneer is accepting offers above €75,000.

Cluain Álainn Place Athlone Road, Roscommon Town • Three superb 4 bedroom contemporary family homes

• High BER Rating

• Set within their own gated grounds

• MVHR Heat Recovery Ventilation System

• Exceptional standards of design, quality and comfort

• High Performance uPVC Windows & Doors

• Private forecourt, rear garden and private driveway

• Large Bi-Fold Door to Rear Garden & Terrace

• 5 Minute Walk to Roscommon Town

• Energy Efficient Appliances

• Photovoltaic Panels (PV)

• Excellent Transport Links

For further information contact SOLE SELLING AGENTS

Tel: 090 6663700 or visit www.cluainalainnplace.ie r

PSRA Licence No. 001350

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

PropertyPeople

NEW TO THE MARKET

THE SQUARE, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

LANDMARK COMMERCIAL PROPERTY. 2 storey mixed use building comprising ground floor retail (formerly occupied by Pharmacy) and 2 fully finished apartments overhead. Please contact Seamus Carthy at REA Seamus Carthy 090 663 0001 AMV: €295,000

NEW TO THE MARKET

BALLYCONBOY, BALLINAGARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON F45DV58

Traditional 2 storey farmhouse with outbuildings, set in mature setting. Immediate viewings are strongly advised. Please contact Seamus Carthy at REA Seamus Carthy 090 663 0001 AMV: €100,000

NEW TO THE MARKET

LISALWAY, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON F45YF83 3 bed bungalow on 1 acre.

REA Seamus Carthy – upcoming auctions

PSRA Licence No. 001481

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

REA Seamus Carthy are selling the following properties in their REA Connaught Auction which will be held on Tuesday, 29th of May 2018 in the Limerick Strand Hotel (11 am).

NEW TO THE MARKET A PRIMELY LOCATED 2 B/R DUPLEX APARTMENT OF C.737 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

1 STONECOURT, THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TOWN All offers after €65,000 to sell

Final offers invited for Garran Ard property 8, Canal Court, Boyle Three-bedroomed semidetached house situated in small enclave in the sought after residential location of Deerpark, Boyle. Excellent value. Reserve: €47,000.

19, Sycamore Crescent, Abbeytown, Boyle A highly sought after residential area with approximately 22 houses in a quiet cul-de-sac. Reserve: €95,000. Contact REA Seamus Carthy for further information 0906630001 or email info@ reacarthy.ie.

John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week inviting final offers for a most attractive four-bedroomed semi-detached residence of c. 1,300 sq.ft. located at 3, Garran Ard, The Walk Road, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “an attractive residence located in a much sought after development on The Walk road adjacent to Roscommon town and all amenities. For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www. propertypartners.ie.

Properties required in Convent Court, Roscommon Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week seeking houses in Convent Court, Roscommon for cash clients and disappointed underbidders. John Earley (FIPAV) commented: “We have experienced a very busy period of house sales over the past number of weeks with a large volume of residential properties being sold or sale agreed. For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) or David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Property BRIEFS Seeking properties! Immediate viewings are strongly advised. Please contact Seamus Carthy at REA Seamus Carthy 090 663 0001 AMV: €100,000

FINAL OFFERS NOW INVITED

CIRCULAR ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

REA Seamus Carthy have experienced a surge in residential site sales in various locations and land sales in close proximity to Roscommon town. They currently have a high volume of clients seeking all types of properties. Please contact Seamus Carthy confidentially if you are considering selling. Call 090-6630001.

40 acres in Oran area

Highly prominent location in Roscommon Town. Situated on Circular Road approximately 300 metres south east of the Town Centre. The property is strategically located and provides unrivalled profile. The Circular Road carries a large volume of passing vehicular traffic and is one of the most accessible routes to the west and midlands. The entire property extends to a Gross Internal Area of approximately 2,080sq.m. all on a site of c.1.43 Acres. Vehicular access is available off Brogan Lane. This is a landmark property on a high profile site which is highly accessible. It comes to the market with vacant possession and offers a “Ready To Go” Opportunity. Of interest to owner occupiers and developers alike. AMV: €400,000 REA Seamus Carthy have experienced a surge in residential site sales in various locations and land sales in close proximity to Roscommon Town. We currently have a high volume of clients seeking all types of properties. Please contact Seamus Carthy confidentially if you are considering selling.

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

Sean Naughton Auctioneers is delighted to offer to the market for sale by private treaty 40 acres with an old residence at Clooneenbane, Oran, Co. Roscommon. It can be sold in lots to suit demand. For further details or to arrange a viewing please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090-6625080 or email seannaughton@eircom.net

Period farmhouse at Curraghboy Sean Naughton Auctioneers is offering to the market for sale by private treaty a period two-storey old farmhouse residence on a 0.5 acre site at Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. Accommodation consists of kitchen, sitting room, living room, five bedrooms and bathroom. The property had additional benefit of enclosed garden with mature shrubbery to the front of the property. The property is serviced by mains water and a septic tank. The exterior of the property could be brought back to old stone facade. Viewing is strongly advised. Offers in the region of €110,000. For further details please contact the office on

090-6625080 or email seannaughton@ eircom.net

Final offers sought for lands Sean Naughton Auctioneer is accepting final offers on an old residence and 12 acres at Curraghroe, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon. On offer are circa 12 acres of fair quality land with old farm sheds and handling facilities. The residence is in need of refurbishment, and has planning permission for new septic tank. The old residence (on oneacre site) can be sold separately. Price on application. For further details or to arrange a viewing please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090-6625080 or email seannaughton@eircom.net

Final offers sought for bungalow Sean Naughton Auctioneers is inviting final offers on a four-bedroomed bungalow at Sandfield, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. The bungalow, on a large site with garage, is for sale by private treaty. Accommodation consists of kitchen, living room, four bedrooms and bathroom. The property had additional benefit of OFCH, garage and large garden area. This property is in need of some refurbishment; however it would make an ideal family home. Viewing is strongly advised. Price on application. For further details contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090-6625080 or email seannaughton@ eircom.net

A primely located duplex apartment located in the heart of Roscommon town in the popular Stonecourt complex. The property boasts spacious living accommodation throughout and with the benefit of free parking facilities at the front and rear of the complex. This is a quality investment property to come available and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER: F.

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NEW TO THE MARKET QUALITY LANDS CONTAINING C. 36.71 ACRES LOCATED AT

ARDMULLEN, KILTOOM, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON A top quality holding of free draining lands located in a highly select agricultural district. The said lands are serviced by a 5 bay single slatted shed and a silage slab and a cattle crush and pen. The said property can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate and are set out as follows: Lot 1: The Entire. Lot 2: c. 22.84 acres with farm buildings. Lot 3: c. 13.87 acres of lands located on the opposite sides of the public roadway. The auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and all offers for sale. LEGAL: MESSERS MICHAEL COLLINS & CO, NENAGH, CO. TIPPERARY. TELEPHONE: 067 41510.

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NEW TO THE MARKET A PRIME HOLDING OF LANDS CONTAINING C. 31 ACRES LOCATED AT

CLOONAKILLY MORE, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON All offers after €100,000 to sell Prime lands set out in 2 lots offering quality lands and forestry. The said lands can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate as follows: Lot 1: The Entire. Lot 2: c. 25 acres on which stands a storage shed, cattle crush and pen. Lot 3: c. 6 acres of lands and forestry. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €100,000 to sell. LEGAL: MARIE CONNELLAN, MESSERS PA CONNELLAN & CO, STROKESTOWN. TELEPHONE: 071 96 33009.

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NEW TO THE MARKET PRIME ROADSIDE BOGLANDS CONTAINING C. 16.3 ACRES LOCATED AT

GRANAGHAN-DILLON, CURRAGHROE, CO. ROSCOMMON Price Guide: €20,000 ono to sell. Prime roadside boglands for which the auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and offers to sell.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

Business Pictured at the Ros FM Pedal Powered Cinema were Niamh Loftus, Dani Stoica, Mr. Fox and Robbie Dwyer. Picture: Andrew Fox

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

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358

Pictured at the Ros FM Pedal Powered Cinema were Frank Scott, Martina Dockery and Bernie Kearney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Center Parcs contracts: €1m bounce for Irish companies

info@oates.ie • www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

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

‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’

Real Broadband for Real Users Fast, reliable, friendly

Contact Tonya on 090 66 34319

sales@eurona-brisknet.ie website www.eurona.ie

 PAUL HEALY

Center Parcs this week announced the awarding of the first tranche of large-scale supplier contracts worth over €1 million to Irish companies as the development of its Center Parcs forest resort in Ballymahon continues at pace. Java Republic has been awarded a significant sixfigure contract for the provision of premium coffee and tea across the resort’s cafes and bars. Meath-headquartered family business Briody Bedding has also secured a six-figure contract to

supply bespoke beds and top-quality mattresses for the 466 lodges and 30 apartments at the forest resort which will see 2,500

guests enjoy a tranquil slumber in the Irish forest when the resort opens next year. In addition, local Bal-

lymahon-based O’Haire Bus Hire has secured the contract to transport the Center Parcs housekeeping staff to and from the

surrounding area to the forest resort when operational. When complete next year, the €233m Center Parcs resort will offer 466 lodges and 30 apartments to accommodate 2,500 guests. During a Center Parcs short break, guests can enjoy more than 100 indoor and outdoor family activities. The development will create approximately 750 jobs during the construction phase and when operational, the ‘village’ is expected to keep 1,000 people in permanent jobs and provide a €32m boost to the economy.

BUSINESS At A Glance Competition has €280k prize fund The closing date for applications to InterTradeIreland’s 16th All-island Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition is just over a week away. Early and new start companies from Roscommon are being reminded to enter the competition to be in with a chance of competing for a no-equity total cash prize fund of €280,000. The deadline for submissions is Friday, 1st of June, and companies can enter via www. intertradeireland.com/seedcorn. There are nine cash prizes on offer and entrepreneurs compete against each other regionally before competing at the national final for the ‘Best Overall’ Titles.

Are 6 in 10 local SMEs feeling beneﬁts of upturn? In a survey of 250+ business owners/managers throughout Ireland, 40% said their business is still waiting to feel the positive impact of Ireland’s upturn in economic fortunes.

Roscommon-based Smart Digital Marketing were the recent winners of the Best Emerging Business/Entrepreneur category at the Athlone Business Awards. Pictured at the awards in the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone were John McGrath, President of Athlone Chamber with Vicky Hewitt, Athlone and Winnie Padian, Ballintubber.

This was one of the findings of the nationwide survey carried out by Big Red Cloud, a leading supplier of online accounting software to the Irish SME market. In the survey, respondents were asked their

views pertaining to two key issues –business performance following the recession, and Ireland’s attitude towards the self-employed. Speaking of the findings, Marc O’Dwyer, CEO of Big Red Cloud said: “We asked the same questions of business owners in 2016 and it was really interesting to see how things have moved on for some…but not for others. “8% of SMEs have reported a change in their economic fortune for the better over the last two years. Worryingly, 40% revealed that they are still struggling – though encouragingly perhaps, 20% of these businesses believe they will be in a better position by the end of 2018. “Perhaps the sentiment might be even more positive in Roscommon with the most recent VisionNet figures showing that between 100-400 companies were formed there in 2017 alone. “From a macro perspective, all figures for Ireland point to strong economic growth. While this is to be welcomed, this broad brush cannot be swept across the nation, as it is not reflective of the fortunes of all of Ireland’s SMEs”.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 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

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

CAREER 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

COUNSELLING

TELEPHONE:

087 4668675 Party Pat’s Bouncing Castles 087 7859960 • Castles • Slides • Obstacle Courses Good rates available

BLOCK AND BRICKLAYING

Bricklayers/ Blocklayers Available For new builds, extensions, walls etc...

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

COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life. Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having difficulties in relationships at work, have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you Please call Glynis on

085 2514394 email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

Call Kieran on

087 7157857

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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 CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Chimney CCTV Inspection OIL BOILERS SERVICED Burners Repaired CARPETS CLEANING Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851 www.connachtchimney Cleaning.com

CHIMNEY CLEANING

• 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

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

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST For all foot ailments Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I. Department of Health Approved Every Monday Tully’s Total Health Pharmacy Main Street, Castlerea

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

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST

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

Department of Health Approved

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

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

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR POWER WASHING

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone, Carrick-on-Shannon -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

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

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

Excellent pass rates

• Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

Mark Kilgallon B.Sc Podiatry (Hons) M.Ch.S.I.

DRIVING LESSONS

Foot Care Practitioner

Fergal 086 1016899

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

fergalkelly@live.com

POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

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

The he local paper!

CHIROPODIST

CHIMNEY SWEEP

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

094 96 20099

Tel: 086 2387528

086 8936012

www.aclearsteerdriving.com

Telephone: Mobile: This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

VHI and Laya Covered

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

Tel. (094) 98 80281 Mob. (087) 2031909 Website: www.dockerydriving.ie RSA Approved Driving Instructor

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

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

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

Henry Street Medical Centre Roscommon TELEPHONE:

090 66 65917 087 228 8780

FARMING  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 Metre 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

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 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  CALVES FOR SALE AT OUR APPROVED PREMISES: Large selection of all breeds of calves available at all times, Bulls and Heifers. Call Paddy 087 4116003  CALVES FOR SALE: Large selection of fresh calves weekly. Tel: 086 1996367  CALVES FOR SALE: Continental, Angus and Hereford calves for sale. Delivery available. Runners also available. Contact Darragh. Tel: 086 8713864  FOR SALE: AberdeenAngus calves/Bull and Heifer calves. Good healthy calves. Tel: 086 2167132  LAND TO LET FOR HORSES: All sports riding/ jumping, Roscommon area/ Westmeath area. Owner will check daily. €60 per month for horse. Discount for large group of horses. Tel: 085 7423998  GRAZING: Grazing for Horses/Ponies, 2 lots, 10 acres and 2 acres. (Please leave message if you do not get an answer on the phone). Tel: 090 6663860

TOPSOIL REQUIRED  CLAY OR TOPSOIL REQUIRED: Good sized loads, Roscommon area. Tel: 086 1005650

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock parts fitted on site (if necessary) Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail:

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

FOR SALE  FOR SALE: Various household + Antique items, including: White Free-standing electric cooker, large Oak Travelling Trunks, antique wardrobes, Mahogony Desk, Gramophone with Records and many, many more. Tel: 085 8336250

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

087 2346364 FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs. Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

● ●

●

Tel: 087 2172281

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

GARDENING SERVICES

thomasneilan4@gmail.com

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

D.A.F.M. Approved

Phone John on

Reg No: EL000083

FOR SALE  FOR SALE: 50” Sony TV excellent condition, can be seen working. Please reply to BOX NO: 1144, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.  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: 3 piece comfortable suite for sale, genuine reason for selling. Good condition, floral design €450, Ballintubber/Castlerea area. Tel: 087 1272684

087 2860428

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

Phone:

087 2721193

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

GARDENING

ALL ABOUT THE GARDEN • Roscommon Town • Grass and Hedge Cutting • General Maintenance • Strimming and Weeding

CONTACT KEVIN:

090 6630879 or Mobile

087 2835742

HOLISTIC

A New Life Holistic Therapy Meditation Evenings every Wednesday at 7.30pm in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon. Holistic Therapy Clinic takes place every Monday 10am - 5pm by Certified Holistic Therapist at Conlon’s Chemist, Athleague, Roscommon • Integrated Energy Therapy • Indian Head Massage • Reiki • DNA Activation • Angel Healing Therapy • Angel Card Readings

Phone Aileen for appointment:

GATELY GARDENING

087 7771890

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

JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms

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

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

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

087 9201818 Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

www.parklawntreeservices.com

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

Tel: 086 2437376

HOLISTIC

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

Bernard Conroy Timber Clearance Ltd Tel: 087 2533101 Firewood For Sale

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

Over 30 years in business

086 1930766

● 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

HYPNOTHERAPY

Just Imagine Hypnotherapy Tattie Hoaker, Goff St., Roscommon Town CAN HELP WITH • Exam Stress • Weight Loss • Smoking Cessation • Children’s Issues and much more Free phone consultations Teresa Waters EYP. CH. Tel: 087 7111067 www.justimagine hypnotherapy.vpweb.ie

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED

PAINTER & DECORATOR

 TO LET: 1 Bed apartment to let, The Walk, Roscommon town, fully furnished. Tel: 087 6949253

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

 PUB WANTED: To lease with option to buy. Tel: 087 7692029  TO RENT: Flat to rent Castlerea town, residental area, 2 bed, compact, easily heated. Tel Mary: 086 1562637

087 2683079 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798 PHYSICAL THERAPIST Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic 18 years experience in treating babies to adults Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes 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

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

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Coillte Teoranta intend to apply for planning permission for: the construction of a new forest road entrance and associated site works for the purposes of harvesting a plantation at Emlagh, Castleplunket, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Coillte Teoranta intend to apply for planning permission for: the construction of a new forest road entrance and associated site works for the purposes of harvesting a plantation at Corraun, Termonbarry, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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 • HOUSE/EXTENSION DESIGN • PLANNING APPLICATIONS • ASSIGNED DESIGN & CERTIFIER ‘New Building Regs’ • BER RATINGS ‘Domestic & Commercial’ • STRUCTURAL & CONDITION SURVEYS • FIRE DESIGN CERTIFICATES

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Coillte Teoranta intend to apply for planning permission for: the construction of a new forest road entrance and associated site works for the purposes of harvesting a plantation at Errironagh, Knockvicar, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. 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.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

Classifieds

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

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Ballinlough Development Association intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of proposed floating jetty to provide harbour for boats with access gangway, proposed wheelchair accessible fishing stand with access gangway, proposed rock breakwater, construction of proposed playground, demolition of existing vehicular entrance and construction of proposed revised, widened vehicular entrance, construction of revised car park layout with traffic calming island and speed bumps, proposed store and associated works at Lough O’Flynn, Willsborough, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Stephen Blake, MRIAI, Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway 087 635 8949 sblake2006@gmail.com This planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the planning authority during its opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application by the planning authority.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Colm Noone, intend to apply for permission for development at Ardkeel, Stonepark, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Development consists of the construction of a single storey extension to the south elevation, construction of two storey front porch extension to the west elevation and installation of 2 no. dormer style windows to the west elevation to existing dwelling. Signed: Colm Noone 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 within 5 weeks beginning on 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 I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Shane Cunniffe and Yvonne Egan to construct a dwellinghouse, garage, waste water treatment system & associated siteworks at Gortnasharvoge, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Castle St, Roscommon. Ph- (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.

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!

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL:

090 66 34633 EMAIL:

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

SITUATIONS VACANT  CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: For school going child and also for summer months in Knockcroghery area, preferably in childminders own home along with other children. School collection required. Days may vary on a weekly basis. Please reply to BOX NO: 1147, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

SITUATIONS WANTED  BUILDER AVAILABLE: Paving, Kerbing, Concrete Fencing, Drainage, Gravel Driveways, Blocklaying, Plastering and Stonewalls. Tel: 087 6197225  CARPENTER AVAILABLE: For work on first and second fix, roofing and slating, all maintenance. Tel: 087 6467322  EXPERIENCED BABYSITTER AVAILABLE: to mind children of all ages. Excellent references. Tel: 087 7592412

 HANDYMAN/ BUILDER AVAILABLE: For small projects such as extensions, bathroom, conversions, replacement windows, paving, patios, general maintenance etc. Tel: 086 0512267

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

KELLY’S EYE Taxi and Minibus hire.

PHONE:

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

HUGH KILDUFF CABS Tel: 086 2479829

TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670

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

086 2437376 FOR SALE: Large lorry loads of turf. Screened and delivered. Orders for this years turf taken now. Tel: 086 7236301

● Domestic

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

(086) 2714879

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

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

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849

087 9131664 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

● Commercial

Call car direct

• 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:

PLASTERING SERVICE

– Contact –

Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

KEANE OIL BOILERS

PLASTERING

● Interior

Padraig Healy

USEFUL SERVICES

PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

● Exterior

TUITION BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

 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

All aspects of Plastering

087 2727888 JOHN BEATTIE

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

● Modern & Traditional Methods ● Restorations ● Dry-lining ● Insulation

Telephone

087 6395741 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

POWER WASHING

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

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 www.appliance-repairs.ie  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: p086 2553153@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.  HANDYMAN AVAILABLE ALL SEASONS: For sewers, drainage concrete and lawn services, call Seamus. Tel: 087 1324245

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

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

Is your Kitchen/Bedroom looking tired or dated? Why not get it resprayed in any colour of your choice Large selection of worktops and handles to choose from Contact Stephen on:

085 1940575

087 4394142

WOMEN’S SHED S T R O K E S T O W N WOMEN’S SHED: A talk on Homeopathy and Herbalism will be held on Tuesday, May 29th at 2pm in Eugene Murphy’s Office on Elphin Street, Strokestown. €3 admission. For further details call Ruth. Tel: 089 9725741

WINDOWS/GLASS Upgrade your PVC Windows to

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 25 May 2018

AtYourService CARPENTRY

TARMACADAM

Donamon

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

Tel: 086 3686669

NO JOB TOO SMALL

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 Damien (086) 4007158

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

DOOLEY 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

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@rosommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633

Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

INSTALLATION

SELLING A USED CAR? Don’t let your advert get lost in the Web!

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

You have a better chance of selling a reasonably priced used car within your own county! An advert in the Roscommon People will be seen by over

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

80,000 LOCAL people every week!

New Buildings & Retroﬁt Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

ROSCOMMON Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Telephone: 090 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

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

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

Telephone: 090 66 33026

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

www.roscommonwindows.ie

BLINDS

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

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

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Contact us for further information Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon T: 090 64 93386 M: 086 8207242 or Darren on 086 8972265 E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

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Appointments Fearna Manor Nursing Home Castlerea require

Full time Health Care Assistants

DELIVERY DRIVER required for busy wholesale Company

Payroll Administrator The Conneely Group have an opening for a full-time Payroll Administrator in East Galway. Duties will include: â&#x2014;? dealing with all aspects of payroll including processing weekly time-sheets and payslips â&#x2014;? acting as key point of liaison for payroll queries and dealing with same responsively, accurately and confidentially â&#x2014;? preparation and submission of all Revenue returns via ROS â&#x2014;? management of holiday pay/timesheets/sick pay/pensions â&#x2014;? experience with Employment contracts advantageous â&#x2014;? completing statutory returns â&#x2014;? GDPR knowledge and awareness desirable â&#x2014;? IPASS qualification or similar an advantage â&#x2014;? minimum 2 years experience in a similar role essential

Please send CVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to:

hr@conneelybuilders.ie

must have Fetac level 5 care of the older person

We are looking for an experienced Driver to deliver products from our warehouse in Roscommon Town, to Customer Retail Stores and Warehouses throughout Ireland.

Activities co-ordinator

Responsibilities include: â&#x20AC;˘ Transport finished goods to retail stores and warehouses throughout Ireland in a safe & timely manner. â&#x20AC;˘ Comply with truck driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, parking and break periods) as well as with company policies and procedures. â&#x20AC;˘ Adhere to delivery schedules & times. â&#x20AC;˘ Manoeuvre trucks safely into loading or unloading positions. â&#x20AC;˘ Report defects, accidents or violations. â&#x20AC;˘ Inspect vehicle for safety issues and organise repairs accordingly. â&#x20AC;˘ Ensure Tachographs, cameras etc. are always working sufficiently

must have Fetac level 5 care of the older person

Please forward CV to hrfearna@gmail.com or post to Fearna Manor Nursing Home, Tarmon Road, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Requirements: â&#x20AC;˘ Proven work experience as a truck driver (5 years +). â&#x20AC;˘ Extensive knowledge of appropriate truck driving rules and regulations. â&#x20AC;˘ No recent driving violations. â&#x20AC;˘ Adaptability and foresight to handle unexpected situations (traffic, weather conditions, delivery matters etc.) â&#x20AC;˘ Willing to submit to background checks and provide employment recommendations. â&#x20AC;˘ Valid truck driving licence and up-to-date Driver CPC Card are essential. â&#x20AC;˘ Manual Handling Certificate would be a bonus, however training will be provided.

SAOLTA UNIVERSITY HEALTH CARE GROUP ROSCOMMON UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Please submit applications by email to karen@imagefurnishings.com

We are a family owned business established over 30 years that provide a range of services to the Construction industry. We specialize within the windows and doors market to New Builds & Refurbishment.

Effluent Treatment Plant Operator for their Athleague site The successful candidate will be responsible for the operation and control of the Effluent Treatment Plant System, for monitoring and maintaining the operational parameters in line with the site IPPC Licence requirements, and for supporting the Environmental Manager in maintaining the site Environmental Management System. Suitable Candidates should

- Ideally have experience and knowledge of Effluent Treatment Plant operations - A background in maintenance, environmental science or water analysis is beneficial â&#x2014;? Demonstrate the ability to work independently, on your own initiative and to problem solve â&#x2014;? Strong communicator and demonstrate the ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with co-workers To join the team at Kepak Athleague, please forward your CV/Application form and covering letter to

HR Department, Kepak Athleague, Athleague, Co. Roscommon or email fernanda.lewtak@kepak.com Closing date for applications: Wednesday, 6th June 2018

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Roscommon University Hospital currently has the following opportunity:

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Finance Manager (Grade VII) Salary: â&#x201A;Ź48,495 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x201A;Ź60,926, â&#x201A;Ź63,041 LSIs Reporting to the General Manager, the Finance Manager will be responsible for the ďŹ nancial business of Roscommon University Hospital and will provide support to the Chief Financial OfďŹ cer, Saolta University Healthcare Group.

We currently require someone for

Kepak are currently recruiting for an

Exciting Job Opportunity

LOADING AND CHECKING LORRIES FOR OUR ROSCOMMON DEPOT

Closing Date: 12 noon on Monday 11th June 2018. Informal Enquiries to Mary Garvey, General Manager on 090 6632254 email to mary.garvey@hse.ie For further information on this post and how to apply please log onto: www.saolta.ie or www.hse.ie

Contact: Sean Doyle & Sons 090-6626753 or 01-4626671 or email c.v. to sales@seandoylewindows.ie

Fulltime Pharmacist

Salary & Benefits: Negotiable based on experience Location: Servicing our clients based in the Midlands & Dublin Vehicle: Fully expensed company vehicle Hours: 9am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5:30pm Monday to Friday Person: Must have minimum 2-yrs experience as a field service engineer looking for progressive career move Must be self-starter and capable of working on their own initiative Must have very strong diagnostic & troubleshooting ability Must have strong communication skills (verbal & written) Must have experience of working with call / ticket logging systems Must have fluent English and relevant work permits for EU Must have full clean driving license Skills: Strong Microsoft desktop OS knowledge Strong PC hardware knowledge Familiar with networking (routers / switches / firewalls etc.) Familiar with Microsoft server OS Familiar with cloud technologies Please apply with cover letter and CV via email only to jobs@myitdepartment.ie Closing date for receipt of application is Friday 25th of May 2018.

Busy Roscommon Pharmacy seeks to recruit a fulltime Pharmacist. Would suit recently qualified pharmacist

Closing date for applications June 10th 2018 Please apply to: Box No 1148 Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Temporary /Part-Time Position Available For a Busy Office in Roscommon Town 3 Days Per Week Please apply to: Box No 1149 Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES QUINN Mary

HANLEY Audrey

FANNON Margaret

FULLARD Gerry

Marnellsgrove, Ballymoe and Lisroyan Lodge, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Mary who died on the 23rd May, 2006 R.I.P 12th Anniversary

Lisnaville, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon who died on 23rd May 2015 3rd Anniversary

Late of Cloverhill, Roscommon Died 25th May 2017

Cloonbrackna Court, Roscommon 14th Anniversary - 29th May

On the first Anniversary of Margaret’s death, we her family would like to express our deep appreciation and gratitude to all who sympathised with us on the death of our beloved mother. Sincere thanks to our relatives, neighbours, friends and to all who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial. We thank those who sent Mass Cards, Perpetual Enrolments, letters of sympathy and floral tributes. We thank Fr. Francis Glennon, P.P. Cloverhill, for celebrating her Funeral Mass and for his attendance at prayers in the house and Funeral Home. Thanks also to Fr. Thomas Leahy, C.C. Ballinaheglish for his prayers at the graveside in Ardkieran Cemetery. We thank the choir for providing the wonderful music and singing for the Funeral Mass. We are grateful to those who organised and managed the car parking arrangements at the church and cemetery. Grateful thanks to the funeral undertakers, Tom and Pat Smyth for their kindness, courtesy and professionalism and to the gravediggers who prepared our mother’s final resting place. Thank you to Eamonn, Mary and staff of Gleesons who provided the lovely meal after the Funeral. We thank Shirley Larkin and the staff of Sonas Nursing Home, Cloverhill, for the care, kindness and attention given to Margaret during her time there and for the courtesy shown to us her family. We also thank the staff and chaplain of Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe who cared for Margaret in her final days. Please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our deep gratitude and appreciation. Margaret’s first Anniversary Mass will be offered in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloverhill on Saturday, 26th May at 8p.m.

Just a prayer from those who love you, Just a memory ever true, In our hearts you will live forever, Because we thought the world of you.

On her gentle soul Sweet Jesus have mercy. Time may pass and fade away, But fond memories of you will always stay.

Always remembered by your ever-loving husband Michael, family and friends.

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 favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.E. 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 favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.E. 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.

So many things have happened, since you were called away, so many things to share with you, had you been left to stay, every day in some small way, memories of you come our way. Though absent, you are ever near, still missed, loved and always dear. So rest in peace dear loved one and thanks for all you’ve done, we pray that God has given you, the crown you’ve truly won.

Loved and missed by husband Luke and children, Teresa, Kenneth, Kellie, Michelle and Luke. Anniversary Mass in Fuerty Church, Friday, 25th May at 7pm.

HANLEY AUDREY (nee Kenny) Lisnaville, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 23rd May 2015 3rd Anniversary

May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you and wish that you were here

Love Maudie & Andy. Anniversary Mass in Fuerty Church on Friday, 25th May at 7pm.

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

HICKS Mary Castle Street, Roscommon On the First Anniversary of the late Mary Hicks the family wish to thank Fr. John Cullen with the help of Deacon Seamus Talbot who celebrated the Mass. We would like to thank all those who sympathised with us and attended the Removal and Funeral Mass, those who sent Mass Cards and letters of sympathy and those who contacted us and who travelled long distances. A Mass will be offered for their intentions. We would like to thank all at Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their understanding and help in our time of need. We would like to thank the staff in Roscommon University Hospital who cared for Mary and we would especially like to thank everyone who helped us in any way during this difficult time. Mary’s First Anniversary Mass in her memory will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, May 27th at 12.15pm. May she rest in peace.

DUIGNAN (née Walsh) Elizabeth Clare Creevy, Roscommon and formerly of Bandon, Co. Cork. Anthony, Conor and Chris wish to acknowledge the overwhelming support and sympathy shown on Clare’s sad passing on May 23rd last year. We were deeply moved by your kind condolences and are sincerely grateful for your letters and Mass Cards and your attendance at her Repose, Funeral and Burial. Thank you to our friends, neighbours and especially those who travelled great distances to be with us. Clare’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, May 26th at 7pm.

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

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

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

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Always remembered by loving wife Sadie, family and grandchildren.

KELLY Mary Frances

KELLY Nancy

Carrownabrickna, Roscommon 27th May 2012 6th Anniversary

‘Avondale’, Ballyleague, Lanesboro 5th Anniversary - 25th May

Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Tuesday, 29th May at 8am.

McNAMARA Eugene Late of The Walk, Roscommon 9th Anniversary occurs on 24th May. R.I.P.

In Loving Memory of Mary Frances Kelly Always remembered with love and affection by your family and friends Anniversary Mass will be held in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 31st May 2018 at 10am.

The memories we shared are quietly kept, no words are needed, we will never forget. For those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.

Fondly remembered by Sarah, Michael, Francis, James and Patrick, Eugene’s brothers, sisters, daughtersin-law, grandchildren and extended family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church on Monday, 28th May at 10am.

Also remembering her husband Frank whose Anniversary occurred April 1st

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us everyday, Unseen, unheard, But always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Loved and always missed by your husband Jack, Eamon, Freda, Liam, Mary and families. Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Sunday, 27th May at 11 am.

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GATELY Eileen Garrynagran, Dysart, Roscommon Died 31st May 2007 11th Anniversary

Out of our lives you may have gone But deep in our hearts you will always live on.

Loved and missed by your family. Anniversary Mass for Eileen in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Saturday, 26th May at 7.30pm.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

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NewsExtra

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KELLY Frank 2nd Anniversary Castleview, Ballybride, Roscommon

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

STAUNTON Mike Brodulla, Shrule, Co. Mayo 40th birthday remembrance 22nd May 1978

In loving memory of Frank who died on 27th May 2016 Our lives go on without you But nothing is the same We have to hide our heartache When someone speaks your name Sad are the hearts that love you Silent are the tears that fall Living without you is the hardest part of all You did so many things for us Your heart was so kind and true And when we needed someone We could always count on you The special years will not return When we were all together But with love in our hearts You walk with us forever

Deeply missed and forever loved and remembered by his daughters Olivia and Janette, sister Marie and brothers Mattie and Martin and extended family. Anniversary Mass in Four-Mile-House Church on Saturday, 26th May at 8pm.

CARTY Tom and Mary Ballygar, Co. Galway (5th Anniversaries) In loving memory of Tom who passed away on 5th July, 2013 and Mary who passed away on 30th March, 2013

Parting comes and hearts are broken Loved ones go with words unspoken Deep in our hearts, there’s a memory kept For a father and mother, we will never forget Rest peacefully Mam and Dad, we will never forget.

Forever loved and dearly missed by Mary, Andrew, Thomas, Simon, David and Michael, son-in-law Raymond, daughter-inlaws Louise, Michelle, Mary and Angela, grandchildren Karl, Alanna, Simone, Mia, Jack, Darragh and Ciarán. Also missed by her sister Peggy and extended family Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday, 26th May at 7.30pm.

We remember you often In a thousand different ways In the morning... In the night... When we look at the sky... A date... A song... A place... For time and space can never divide or keep you from our side.

Modwena Geoghegan and Michael Geoghegan, Manager of Kepak, Athleague pictured making a presentation to Dervla and Noel Meade after Momus won the Kepak Flat Race (5th Race) at Roscommon Racecourse. Picture: Andrew Fox

n o m m o c Ros e s r u o c e Rac

All our love, Gavin, Tomás, Luke and Joan

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(Above) Sandra Hughes, Roscommon Racecourse, pictured making a presentation to Tom Cooper after Boho won The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Race (1st Race) at Roscommon Racecourse. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured (right) at Roscommon Races were Maura, Paul and Conor Tighe. Picture: Andrew Fox

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.

Pictured at Roscommon Races were Claire and David Kelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Roscommon Races were Layla and Rachel Sheriff. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

Sports

People

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re back! Connacht Football Championship Semi-Final

Leitrim v Roscommon Carrick-on-Shannon on Saturday at 5.30 pm

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

SportsPeople

Peter’s are champions after dour draw Roscommon & District Football League Premier Division

CASTLEREA CELTIC

ST. PETER’S FC

 SEAMUS DUKE

St. Peter’s FC got the point they needed to ensure that they were crowned the Roscommon & District League Premier Division champions in Castlerea last Saturday night. The Athlone-based side have won the title in their first year in the league losing only one game in the entire season which is a great achievement. They were the better team in this dour, goalless draw and were it not for some poor shooting, they could have had a goal or two to spare in this match. In fairness to a battling home side, Castlerea never allowed Peter’s to dominate and they made sure that the visitors were going to work hard for their title. With Darragh Concannon and Ryan Carberry pulling the strings in midfield, Peter’s had plenty of possession but their finishing was poor. Good chances fell to Mark McConnell on three occasions in the opening half in the 12th, 16th and 36th minutes but he was wide or over the top each

time. Castlerea were always game, and with Peter Farrell an impressive outlet up front, there was always a threat that the home side might get a breakaway goal but in truth there were very few clear openings for them. Peter’s continued to dominate after the break but as the game went on it became clear that they were happy enough to settle for the point that would hand them the title and they free-wheeled to the final whistle with the minimum of fuss. As the Premier Division trophy was presented, a very happy Peter’s team manager Philip Coffey said it was a tough game but a deserved point and title after a long season. “We knew we would get nothing easy here tonight. Castlerea are a great club and a good side and they were not going to lie down. But having said that, we had three great chances in the first-half. Mark (McConnell) is usually more clinical than that and if we got one we could have got

two or three. But in fairness to Castlerea they battled away and caused us all sorts of trouble. “At the end of the day we have won the league title and in our first year it’s just great. We said we needed a change (of league) after last year and in fairness this is a good league with a good standard so we are delighted. We needed a point and we got it and that’s the most important thing. Hopefully we can go on and defend this title next season too,” he concluded. Castlerea Celtic: Thomas Hester, Jarlath Geraghty, Enda Foster, Cathal

Dineen, Declan Creaton, Damien Freyne, Patrick Egan, David Fitzpatrick, Peter Farrell, Dominic Bligh, Paul Mee. Subs: Niall Higgins for Egan (72), Giles McDonagh for Foster (82). St. Peter’s FC: Aidan Browne, David Donohue, Niall Scullion, Ian Dempsey, Scott Delaney, Garvan Broughall, Darragh Concannon, Ryan Carberry, Gary Stephens, Mark McConnell, Etiosa Odua Henry. Subs: Mick Lee for Henry (59), Noel McGee for Stephens (60), Mark Sherlock for McConnell (67). Referee: Ciaran O’Reilly

Members of St. Peter’s FC team celebrate after winning the RDFL Premier Division. Picture: Andrew Fox

Gary Stephens, Mark McConnell, John McCrossan and Darragh Concannon celebrate after the final whistle. Picture: Andrew Fox

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

Dooner’s weekend predictions Congratulations to St. Peter’s FC on winning the Premier Division title in their first year in the Roscommon & District Football League. They don’t get too much time to enjoy it however, as they’re back out this evening in Premier Division Cup action against Ballymoe. By Sunday evening they could be two games from a magnificent treble! Division One champions Kilkerrin United completed their own treble last weekend when they overcame Hodson Bay in the Division One Cup. Congratulations to everyone involved on a magnificent achievement. Special mention for Moylough ’79, who won their first major piece of silverware last weekend. They were pushed all the way by a gallant

Soccer Results

Rahara Rovers side who were the width of a post away from winning the Division Two title themselves. This weekend it’s all about the cup ties, and I really hope I don’t jinx Liverpool by predicting that they’ll win their cup final in Kiev: 3-2, Salah first scorer (against his new club!).

The Herald Premier Division Castlerea Celtic 0 St. Peter’s FC 0 (St. Peter’s FC are champions) Ballinasloe Town 4 Shiven Rovers 0 Ballaghaderreen FC 0 Ballymoe FC 2 Cloonfad United 0 Skyvalley Rovers 4 Dysart FC 2 Moore United 1 St. John’s Athletic 2 Boyle Celtic 8

Thursday, May 24th Premier Division Cup Semi-Final At Kilkerrin: Ballymoe FC v St. Peter’s FC. 8 pm It’s hard to look beyond St. Peter’s as they close in on a terrific treble. Prediction: St. Peter’s FC

Sunday, May 27th Division One Promotion/Relegation Play-off At Lecarrow: Cam Celtic v CP Ajax. 12 pm

First Division Cup Final Hodson Bay Athletic 1 Kilkerrin United 2 Pictured is the Kilkerrin United team which won the Division One Cup last weekend to complete a treble.

I’ve been impressed with Cam Celtic this season and they may have the momentum. Prediction: Cam Celtic RDFL Challenge Cup Semi-Final At Ballymoe: Moylough ’79 v St. Peter’s FC. 2 pm

The Premier Division champions will have too much for the Division Two champions. Prediction: St. Peter’s FC Premier Division Promotion/Relegation Play-off At Lecarrow: Hodson Bay Athletic v Dysart FC. 2.30 pm

Hard to call this one but hesitant nod to Hodson Bay. Prediction: Hodson Bay Athletic

Masters ﬁxtures Friday, May 25th Cam Celtic v CB Trot-

ters. 7.30 pm

Saturday, May 26th Dunmore Town v Skyvalley Rovers. 7 pm Glen Celtic v Ballinasloe Town. 7 pm

Killeen Sports Grounds Division Two Rahara Rovers 1 Moylough ‘79 1 (Moylough ’79 are champions) Umbro Masters League Dunmore Town 1 Glen Celtic 0 Skyvalley Rovers 2 Cam Celtic 2

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

@dan_dooner

Another statue unveiled at Old Trafford? THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner First of all, Liverpool deserve great credit for reaching the Champions League Final with such a limited midfield and questionable defence (Ed: Bitter much?). There’s no doubt that they’ve been exciting to watch in the Champions League…if you’re into that sort of thing! Personally, I prefer football played at a slower tempo by technically challenged Belgians. As a Manchester United fan, this Saturday will work out one of two ways: 1. Liverpool win and I move back to Korea (North – No Internet or International sports news), or 2. A Ronaldo-inspired Real Madrid win and United fans everywhere collectively exhale while putting the boot in on social media for the next three months. The way this season

has gone so far means I’ve already packed my bags for Pyeongyang! Closer to home and away from the overrated Champions League (Ed: Still not bitter!), the Connacht ‘El Clasico’ takes place in Carrick-onShannon and Roscommon are expected to win comfortably. Some would say it doesn’t always work out that way but in recent years it usually has. It’s a pity but all provincial championships, except for maybe Ulster, have gone this way. Leinster, where Dublin will be expected to comfortably dispose of Wicklow, is much worse. So, more than likely, the clock will tick slowly, painfully and without drama towards 7.45 pm on Saturday evening for local Liverpool fans. Man United fans will endure a long Saturday too but for very different reasons. Truth be told, many see Cristiano Ronaldo et al as the last line of defence

“I’m sorry Cristiano, the sculptor was a Liverpool fan”. Will Ronaldo be the toast of United fans once more?

against a nightmare summer. Ronaldo is already a United hero of course but if he were to

put in another match winning performance this weekend, supporters may well petition

for a statue to be erected at Old Trafford in his honour. Let’s just hope it’s not the

same sculptor who designed the one in Portugal! Viva Ronaldo!

People’s champions of the week Athlone side St. Peter’s FC clinched the Roscommon & District Football League Premier Division at the first time of asking last weekend following a goalless draw away from home against Castlerea Celtic. Pictured is captain, Scott Delaney celebrating with Niall Scullion in Castlerea last Saturday evening. Pic: Andrew Fox

First league title! Congratulations to Moylough’79 who won their first major title in the Roscommon & District Football League last weekend when they drew 1-1 with Rahara Rovers to clinch the Division Two title.

The sporting brief Handball

Connacht Onewall There were a number of impressive Roscommon performances at the Connacht Finals in Ballygar recently but only the ice-cool Rory Carthy was victorious. Having beaten Mayo’s Oisin Brady in the Boy’s U-13 semi-final, Rory beat Stephen Kelly from Claregalway 15-12, 15-13 in the final. Philip Halliday lost out against Galway’s Mikey Kelly in the Boys’ U-15 final on a scoreline of 15-7, 15-13. Philip did win the Annaghdown Onewall U-15 title on Saturday with three impressive victories over Galway opposition. Liam Egan was defeated by national

champion, Eimhin O’Dilliun, in the Boys’ U-17 final 15-7, 15-12. Siobhan Treacy also lost her final against Galway’s Sadhbh Ni Fhleartha 15-5, 15-6. Siobhan’s older brother Diarmuid lost out to Mayo’s Laurence Murphy in the Men’s ‘C’ grade. Liam O’Ceallaigh was comfortably beaten by Mayo’s Ian McLoughlin in the Men’s ‘B’ grade. Natasha Mahady lost to Mayo’s Mary Burke in the Ladies’ ‘C’ event but showed plenty of promise in her first competition. Elsewhere, Mount Talbot will host Ireland’s top handballers this weekend in their 8th annual Onewall tournament. The current Senior Champion Conor McElduff aswell as Paudi Quish from Limerick will be among the favourites in a strong field vying

for the Sonny Kildea Shield. The Ladies’ event also sees a very strong contingent from around Ireland with Niamh Dunne from Laois, Leah Doyle from Kildare and Caitlin Conway from Tyrone as well as Amy Corrigan from Ballaghderreen all trying to capture the Classic Cuts Cup. A host of top juveniles will also take to the courts from all around Ireland. Action gets underway at 4.30 pm on Friday evening with finals set to take place from 3 pm onwards on Saturday.

Golf

Connacht winners We begin our round in Roscommon, where the Senior Cup team won the

recent Connacht Final against Athenry and will now go on to the All-Ireland semi-final in Belfast in August. At home, Clement McCormack held off Charlie McDonnell to land the recent 18-hole competition. Mary Seymour took the ladies’ competition ahead of Marie McManus while Detta Cox took the senor ladies’ competition. To Athlone, where Maura Kelly will go forward to the regional Carnoustie qualifier on June 15th in Tubbercurry. The Intermediate Cup team beat Tuam last Sunday and will take on Claremorris or Castlebar. In Boyle, Gerry O’Dowd won the recent PGA Tankard 18-hole with a great scored of 42 points. Terry Canning continued his good recent form, finishing second on 27 points. Finally to Strokestown, where the

Ladies beat Longford in the Challenge and the Senior Men overcame Tubbercurry in the Seniors’ Inter-Club. Meanwhile, the first weekend of the Fore Club Alliance took place recently with a great turnout and some wonderful golf. Strokestown had a 1, 2, 3 with Paddy Murray (40 points), Michael Cox (39) and Martin Kelly (36) taking the top spots.

Pitch and Putt

Old Pals! Mary O’Loughlin and Kathleen Shaw won the Old Pals competition in Woodview last weekend while Martha Callinan and Eucharia King were second and Bridie Nugent and Maura Coyle finished third.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Talking is over, time to play ball! The talking is over and the championship action will commence for Roscommon footballers on Saturday evening in Carrick-onShannon. The match is given plenty of space elsewhere in the paper this week but I am expecting a Roscommon win by seven or eight points. Leitrim’s tough championship game against New York will have stiffened their resolve and brought them on but Roscom-

mon have too many aces to play. Elsewhere, we were expecting the football championship to come alive with the Mayo v Galway match, but as we now know it was a brutal game. Who would have thought that the Tyrone v Monaghan game would have set the championship alight? It was a great game of football and Monaghan have announced themselves as a serious contender for major honours now.

Tyrone are a fading force and Mickey Harte is under pressure for the first time in his long managerial career. Monaghan are really well coached and play some great football. When you have a player of the ability of Conor McManus in your attack you always have a chance. He is a superb operator and if he stays fit Monaghan will be a danger to everyone, including Dublin.

In the hurling there were more great matches last weekend. The game between Wexford and Dublin was a heart stopping affair with the home side scoring the winning points in injurytime. Limerick have also arrived as a major contender in the hurling championship but the big question is are Tipperary a spent force? The next few weeks will tell.

Saturday, 26th May Leinster SFC Quarter-Final Laois v Westmeath in Tullamore at 5 pm An interesting tie in prospect here. James Dolan is gone from the Westmeath panel and is off to the USA while talisman John Heslin is doubtful with an injury. There could be a shock. Prediction: Laois

Connacht SFC Semi-Final

Sunday Game feels the squeeze The fact that there are now so many hurling and football championship games on every weekend means that the Sunday Game is getting squeezed for time. Last Sunday night for instance the Tyrone v Monaghan game was given no more than six or seven minutes because of all the action they had to get in. It was such a pity because it was a fantastic game. In the coming weeks that situation is going to get worse as the number of games increase every weekend. Why not show some of the matches at night on RTE2 during the week? There is enough rubbish on that channel that we could do without. I know I would have loved to have seen the Tyrone v Monaghan match in full. Just look at the amount of games that are on this weekend. The Leitrim v Roscommon game will not get any more than two or three minutes on Sunday night next. I will be lucky enough to see it live but there are a lot of people who would love to see it even if it was a few days later.

Championship Watch

Leitrim v Roscommon in Carrick-onShannon at 5.30 pm Previewed elsewhere in this week’s paper. Prediction: Roscommon

Ulster SFC Quarter-Final Down v Antrim in Newry at 7 pm Down have gone back a lot in recent years, but not so far to lose against a limited Antrim outfit. Prediction: Down

Roscommon will face Leitrim this Saturday evening in Carrick-onShannon for a place in this year’s Connacht SFC Final. Pic: Andrew Fox

Munster SFC Semi-Final Tipperary v Cork in Thurles at 7 pm A contender for the football game of the weekend here. Tipperary are the favourites but Cork must surely get their act together shortly. Having said that, Tipperary are a very impressive side, especially in attack and they should advance to the final. Prediction: Tipperary

Sunday May 27th Leinster SFC Quarter-Finals Carlow v Kildare in Tullamore at 2 pm

Biggest day in the sporting calendar? This Saturday is a contender for one of the biggest days of the whole year in sport. Apart from the GAA action around the country, the Champions League Final will take centre stage on Saturday night. I said here in this column in January that Liverpool had a great chance of winning the competition outright and now they are only one step away. Real Madrid will bring all their know-how into the final and they have some marvellous players but Liverpool’s attack is a danger to any team and if Klopp gets his tactics right, Liverpool can beat anyone in a

one-off game, and that includes Real Madrid. There is a huge Liverpool following in this country so stand by for some major celebrations if they win a 6th European Cup. I know a number of Roscommon people who are off to Kiev this weekend and many more who are going to Liverpool just to savour the atmosphere in the city. I think they will win it and send us Manchester United supporters into three months of mourning! Earlier on Saturday another club with a huge Irish following, Aston Villa,

will play Fulham at Wembley in the “most valuable game in soccer” to see who will go into the Premier League next season. It will be a very tense affair but with several experienced players in his team, including John Terry, I expect that Steve Bruce will lead Villa back into the top division. Also on Saturday, Leinster face Scarlets in the final of the Pro14 league. They survived the Munster test last weekend and will be favourites to win at home in the Aviva. They should just about do it and clinch a memorable double.

Lowry and McIlroy set for Wentworth The biggest golf tournament on the European Tour outside of the British Open, The BMW Championship, takes place at Wentworth this weekend and it is always worth a look. The course is not to everyone’s liking but Irish players have done very well here over the years. Rory McIlroy is a past champion and Shane Lowry has had four top ten finishes in an event which carries huge prize-money. Lowry needs a good week very

shortly. He has not been playing well so far in 2018 and needs to start gathering up some Ryder Cup and World Ranking points. His PGA Tour exemption runs out at the end of this year and he needs to try and keep that card. With the big tournaments all coming up over the next two months, the Clara man needs to up the ante. McIlroy is always good Former AIT student and Clara native, Shane Lowry, will be hoping at Wentworth and could be worth a to pick up vital ranking points at The BMW Championship at bet this week. Wentworth this weekend.

Carlow had a great league campaign while it was a disastrous one for Kildare. However, the Lilywhites have been playing at a far higher level than Carlow. I expect a spirited display from Carlow, but no cigar. Prediction: Kildare

Longford v Meath in Longford at 2 pm Make no mistake, Longford have a real live chance here. Meath are not great and if Dennis Connerton’s men are at full strength they can give the Royals plenty of it. Whether it’s good enough for them to win the game is hard to see though it will be close. Prediction: Meath

Dublin v Wicklow in Portlaoise at 4 pm No analysis needed here. Prediction: Dublin

Ulster SFC Quarter-Final Derry v Donegal in Derry at 4 pm Donegal are fresh from their good win against Cavan and should be far too good for Derry who have been taking backward steps in recent years. Prediction: Donegal

Leinster SHC Round Robin Galway v Kilkenny in Pearse Stadium at 4 pm The game of the weekend in hurling or football. Both sides will want to put down a marker. Kilkenny have two wins out of two and another win will put them in the Leinster final. But Galway warmed up nicely against Offaly and playing at home they won’t want to lose. They should prevail but it will be a humdinger. Prediction: Galway

Munster SHC Round Robin Tipperary v Cork on Sunday in Thurles at 2 pm Tipp are in trouble after last weekend and will be under huge pressure to beat a Cork side who came through the Clare test with flying colours. I expect a Tipp backlash but it may not be good enough Prediction: Cork

Clare v Waterford in Ennis at 3.30 pm Another epic in prospect here. Clare will need to win after last Sunday and Waterford will provide very stiff opposition. Clare might just have enough in Cusack Park. Prediction: Clare

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

Buccaneers RFC

Creggs RFC Report

Buccs’ big winners Martin Staunton and Michael Cleary captured the chief accolades at Buccaneers’ end of season Gala Awards dinner held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone. Stalwart Staunton was named Senior Player of the Year for the second time while the even longer serving Cleary earned the Club Person of the Year accolade. Rossa Dooley took the Seconds’ Player of the Year accolade while Tracey Finnerty won the Women’s Player of the Year award. The ‘Most Improved’ player awards went to Paul Boyle (Firsts), Trevor Phillips (Seconds), Robert Enraght-Moony (U-20’s) and Katy Ryan (Women’s); all were truly worthy winners. David Connolly, who has worn many caps in the club including skippering Buccs to an All-Ireland League title win and was also a noted AIL referee, won the ‘Youths Volunteer of the Year’ award. Robbie Henshaw’s magnificent achievements saw him presented with a specially commissioned Athlone Crystal vase by club president Tom Meagher and Michael Moore of Audi Athlone. Nine Buccaneers players who were selected on various Ireland teams during the season were also presented with pieces of Athlone Crystal at the Gala event: Tiernan O’Halloran, David Heffernan (both Senior); Shane Layden, Jordan Conroy (both Sevens); Colm Reilly, Ryan Lomas (both U-19s); Darragh Murray, Saul O’Carroll, Liam Winnett (Ireland U-18s Schools and Clubs). Clonmel native Michael Cleary took what many believe to be the ‘premier’ gong, the ‘Buccaneer’s Clubperson of the Year’ award. He was presented with the coveted Michael Hanley Memorial Perpetual Cup by Club President Tom Meagher and Michael Moore from Audi Athlone, and drew a standing ovation from all present.

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs U-12 Girls pictured with the RBS Six Nations and Triple Crown trophies at the Aviva Stadium recently.

Creggs Girls conquer the Aviva Last Saturday, the U-12 Girls played in a Mini Rugby Festival in the Aviva Stadium. The girls played and won their games versus Tralee, Fethard, Tullamore and Armagh, and they showed dazzling skills during all their games. They were also treated to lunch and a stadium tour as part of what was a day they will always remember. Well done to all the girls and their parents, their coaches Micheal Glennon and Dave Purcell, and their teachers, who facilitate rugby coaching and games.

Great day at All-Ireland Tag Congratulations to Cloontuskert National School, who represented Creggs Rugby in the Aldi National Tag Rugby Blitz in the Aviva Stadium last Saturday. Ireland and Leinster star Robbie Henshaw is presented with an award by Michael Moore (Audi Athlone) and Buccaneers President Tom Meagher at Buccaneers Rugby’s recent Gala Awards night at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone.

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Sinead Connerton from 6th class in Cloontuskert NS sent us this edited report… Last Wednesday (16th) was a defining mo-

Racing in Ireland today is at Tipperary over the sticks starting at 5.15 pm. There is flat racing tomorrow in Leopardstown at 5.20 pm and a jumping meeting at Down Royal off at 5.30 pm. Saturday sees day one of the two-day Guineas fixture at headquarters, The Curragh, starting at 1.50 pm on Saturday and on Sunday. The centre of Saturday’s card is the Group 1 Classic, the 2000 Guineas supported by 2 Group 2 races the Greenlands Stakes and Lanwades Stud Stakes. There are 2 Group 1 races on Sunday, the 1000 Guineas and the Tattersalls Gold Cup along with the Group 3 Gallinule Stakes. Racing at 5.30 pm on Monday and on Tuesday, time to be decided, is over in Co. Mayo on the beautiful Ballinrobe track. 14 colts could line up on Saturday in the 2000 Guineas with 5 of them from the O’Brien establishment headed by Gustav Klimt, a disappointing 6th at Newmarket, and he could be joined by stablemates US Navy Flag, Conclusion, Spanish Point and Threeandfourpence. Mark Johnston’s Elarqam, a son of Frankel, looks the one to beat on his 4th at Newmarket and is now set to cross the small pond. There are 20 fillies left in the Irish 1000 Guineas headed by Aidan O’Brien’s Happily and he responsible 8 more in the race. Clemmie, Actress, Athena, Could It Be Love, Hence, I Can Fly, Magical and Most Gifted complete his hand. There are only 3 possible raiders at this stage Karl Burke’s Laurens, runner-up in the Newmarket equivalent, Charlie Appleby’s Soliloquy and Mark Johnston’s Threading. Johnny Murtagh’s Lightening

ment in the sporting history of our school when we participated in the All-Ireland Tag Rugby Competition at the Aviva Stadium. We played sublimely on the day; we were like Munster in our approach! Our coach Mr O’Gorman hails from the province and has instilled in us a grittiness that gets us on the front foot in all our games. We boarded our bus at 7.25 am to reach the Aviva for 9.30 am for registration. The journey to the Aviva was like no other bus journey, minutes became hours or so it seemed. Anxious twinges in our stomachs had now replaced the morning calm. Eventually the stadium emerged in the distance and along with this a ruckus arose from the pit of my stomach while others let out a huge, long disturbing roar. Once we disembarked the bus there was a crescendo of noise and the realisation that we were at the Aviva! After registration and a quick bite to eat we quickly set our sights on the task in hand. Reality struck us all as we went through our drills and warm-up. When we entered the Aviva Stadium as the

Quick, Kevin Prendergast’s Alghabrah, Jessica Harrington’s Alpha Centauri, Jim Bolger Scriobh Nua, Brendan Duke’s Uluru Park and Dermot Weld’s Chiara and Yulong Gold Fairy are all left in. Ger Lyons filled up the score by supplementing Who’s Steph. Happily will probably be odds on but do not rule out stablemate Clemmie. The only danger to an O’Brien filly winning looks to be Soliloquy. On Sunday the final two races at Naas were cancelled as the surface was slippery on the bend into the home straight following rain during the day. Several jockeys expressed their concern after the first race and an early halt to racing was called after the 3 sprints that followed.

General News With Pat Smullen still out through illness Dermot Weld is not letting the grass grow under his feet and has Frankie Dettori booked to ride Hazapour in the Epsom Derby on Saturday week. It was great to see the colours of Sean and Bernadine Mulryan back in the winner’s enclosure last week in Punchestown. Second on his debut over the course and distance last month, City Island went one better in the last at Punchestown last evening fortnight. The Martin Brassil trained 5-Y-O was an easy to back, opening at 11/4 before going off at 9/2, winner from Valdieu and Caracara Mail in the well-known Blue and yellow silks of Sean and Bernardine Mulryan.

Point to Point View Hard to believe the penultimate weekend is upon us and racing starts on Saturday with

eleventh school, we were greeted by a chorus of ‘C’mon Cloontuskert!’ followed by the team photo like no other. Irish, Munster and Lions legend Paul O’Connell was there to greet us and embrace us and stand into our school photo. He took selfies with us, coached us on the finer points of the game and gave us all great encouragement. We played three games against Scoil Barra Ballincollig, Mother of Divine Grace and St. Oliver Plunkett’s NS. All of these schools were bigger than ours but isn’t it funny how sport can be a great leveller? Finally, at 2 pm, we had said our goodbyes, Paul O’Connell had brought a close to the proceedings. He encouraged us to keep playing sport as it helps us to improve and develop mental and physical toughness along with many other health benefits. It doesn’t have to be just rugby he told us, sports and games of all kinds improve our capacity to learn. We bade farewell to the Aviva Stadium and travelled a short duration down the M4 to the comfort of the Apple Green and Burger King. Like a good Ferrari, we needed to refuel before making out way back home!

City Island, red cap, wins from Valdieu, maroon, and Caracara Mail, blue cap.

2 meetings down for decision at Portrush in the north at 1.30 pm and at Tralee in Co. Kerry at 2 pm. On Sunday there is only one meeting at Inchydoney near Clonakilty in Co. Cork, meeting starts at 2.30 pm. Runner-up in the 2013 Gold Cup Sir Des Champs overcame a serious tendon injury to make a winning return at Thurles in 2015. He never managed to recapture his best form and in 2017 he went to Pat Doyle and at 12 years of age went pointing. While he was enjoying his new-found lease of life being placed on 7 of 11 occasions he failed to win. He had just built up a good partnership with Doyle’s daughter Suzy when disaster struck last Friday in Necarne near Enniskillen when he suffered a fatal injury approaching 3 from home.

Competition Time Roscommon has its first two-day meet-

ing on the 11th and 12th of June and we have 3 pairs of double tickets compliments of Michael Finneran and all we want to know is which of the Irish Classics takes place at the Curragh on Saturday? Last chance to win 3 pairs of tickets for Kilbeggan on Sunday, 3rd June compliments of Secretary Paddy Dunican and to win can you tell us which Irish, flat and national hunt, jockey retired after riding the appropriately named Happy Escape to win at Chepstow last week? Answers please on a postcard to The Roscommon People, Abbey Street Roscommon or by e-mail to tomred17@gmail.com by 12 pm Wednesday the 30th and don’t forget to include your name, address and a contact phone number with all competition entries. Tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street on Thursday or Friday.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

SportsPeople

BREAKING BALL Finan named in Team of the League Congratulations to the Northern Gaels Minor team and management (pictured here with sponsor Mary Fahy, ECC Timber Products) who won the Galway Minor A League Final, beating Caherlistrane 2-11 to 0-7 in Tuam Stadium last Wednesday evening.

Roscommon Ladies footballer Rebecca Finan has been named as number 14 on the ‘Team of the League’ for Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 3. Rebecca will attend the Lidl Teams of the League 2018 Awards in Croke Park this Friday (25th).

GAA Fixtures

Hurlers improve in Wicklow defeat Christy Ring Cup Round 2

WICKLOW

2-16

ROSCOMMON

0-16

 SEAMUS DUKE

A six point home defeat does not seem much to be happy about, but when judged against the debacle in Newbridge a week previously, this was much better from the Roscommon hurlers. Wicklow looked like they had the edge for most of the match but they were made fight all the way by Ciaran Comerford’s men, who will now face Mayo at home in their final group game. On a perfect evening for hurling in Athleague, Roscommon stood toe to toe with their opponents until the 58th minute when Wicklow’s second goal gave them a bit of breathing space and they went on to win by a half dozen points in the end. Roscommon began well, and after 9 minutes they led by 0-5 to 0-2, with Daniel Glynn on target with three points (one free). But with Andy

O’Brien and PJ Nolan dangerous in attack, Wicklow were level by the 13th minute. The sides looked evenly matched in the second quarter and Daniel Glynn’s accuracy added to some well-taken scores from Eamon Flanagan and Naos Connaughton, ensured that the home side were a point ahead 0-9 to 0-8 going into first half injury-time. But in added time Andy O’Brien was fouled in the large square and he fired the resultant penalty past Joe Keane for the game’s opening goal. Daniel Glynn’s late point saw the half-time score Wicklow 1-8 Roscommon 0-10. Roscommon competed very well after the break, and in the 46th minute it seemed Wicklow were dealt a blow when their lively full-forward Andy O’Brien was sent off for a second yellow card offence but that incident galvanised Wicklow, who upped their game thereafter. Christy Moorehouse and Michael Lee took on the free-taking duties for the Garden County and they edged ahead. The crucial score arrived in the 58th minute when George O’Brien did the spadework and Daniel Staunton fired home a great goal. It opened up a gap that Roscommon could not breach and

they eased to a comfortable enough win. Roscommon’s Jason Kilkenny was also shown a red card in injurytime for a second yellow card offence, but the game was over as a contest by then. Roscommon can hold their heads high after this much improved performance. Alan Moore, Shane Curley, Naos Connaughton and Daniel Glynn (their best player) all performed well on the day. However the reality is that unless the Rossies can defeat Mayo in the final group game they are staring relegation to the Nicky Rackard Cup in the face. Wicklow: Robert Fitzgerald; Peter Keane, Warren Kavanagh, Martin O’Brien; Garry Byrne, John Henderson, Eamonn Kearns (0-1); Ronan Keddy (0-2), Daniel Staunton (10); PJ Nolan (0-2), Anthony Byrne, Christy Moorehouse (0-2, 1 free); George O’Brien (0-1), Andy O’Brien (1-4, 2 ‘65’s, 1 free), Michael Lee (0-4, 1 free), Subs: Padraig Doyle for A Byrne (41), Eoin McCormack for Moorehouse (67), Billy Cuddihy for G Byrne (68), Jamie Byrne for G O’Brien (73). Roscommon: Joe Keane; Pat Nolan, Micheal Byrne (0-1), Alan Moore;

Friday, May 25th AFL Division 4 At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Fuerty. 8 pm AFL Division 6 (8 pm) At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v St. Dominic’s At Ardcarne Park: St. Michael’s v Creggs Saturday, May 26th Leydon Brothers AFL Division 3 (Tansey Cup) At Kiltoom: St. Brigid’s v St. Michael’s. 4 pm

Can Crop or flip!

Ciaran Comerford (pictured earlier this year) will have been much happier with his side’s performance against Wicklow last Saturday. Pic: Andrew Fox

Kerrill Hardiman (0-1), Jason Kilkenny, Eamon Flanagan (0-1); Darragh Heavey, Shane Curley (0-1, s/l); Daniel Glynn (0-10, 5 frees, 1 ’65), Cillian Egan, Naos Connaughton (0-1); Cathal Kenny, Cormac Kelly, Hugh Rooney. Subs: Robbie Fallon for Egan (31), Warren Boyle for Kenny (44), John Murray for Heavey (69). Referee: Nathan Wall (Cork) Wides: Wicklow 14 Roscommon 13 Man of the Match: PJ Nolan (Wicklow)

Final decision on Hyde due tonight  SEAMUS DUKE

It looks ‘very likely’ that the Connacht SFC Final will be played at Dr Hyde Park should Roscommon and Galway come through their semi-final tests over the next ten days against Leitrim and Sligo respectively. There were doubts about whether the Roscommon town venue would be allowed to stage the game on the 17th of June in the event of a Roscommon v Galway fixture. A Connacht Council meeting will be held tonight (Thursday) to make a final decision, but it is

People Sport’s understanding that a system of mobile scanning of tickets will be in operation for that game should it be required. That would satisfy the authorities and allow the capacity of the Roscommon town venue to reach 23,000, which would be acceptable to the Connacht Council who organise the fixture. However, the GAA had requested over 12 months ago that a ‘permanent structure’ needs to be built at Dr Hyde Park in the long-term so that crowds attending big

games can be segregated on health and safety grounds, and that work will have to be carried out in the future to secure the capacity of the ground so it can continue to hold major games. A new mobile scanning system, which was used at a Leinster SHC game in Tullamore recently, is available should the Connacht final be fixed for Dr Hyde Park. At the time of going to press no

GAA Results Seamus Carthy Auctioneers AFL Division 1 Western Gaels 3-15 Strokestown 0-15 St. Croan’s 1-9 Elphin 0-11 Clann na nGael 1-16 Boyle 1-10 Connaughton Fuels AFL Division 2 (O’Gara Cup) St. Aidan’s 1-12 Tulsk Lord Edwards 0-6 Kilmore 3-18 Shannon Gaels 0-3 Oran 1-19 Éire Óg 2-9 Michael Glavey’s 1-10 Fuerty 0-13 Leydon Brothers AFL Division 3 (Tansey Cup) Ballinameen 3-11 St. Barry’s 0-14 Kilglass Gaels 2-13 St. Brigid’s 0-3 Kilbride 3-10 Western Gaels 1-5 Strokestown 3-15 St. Dominic’s 1-5 King & Moffatt Building Services JBFC (Section B) St. Aidan’s 2-12 Pádraig Pearses 3-8

official announcement has been made but GAA officials People Sport spoke to on Tuesday in Roscommon are confident that should Roscommon and Galway qualify for the final, the match will be held at Dr Hyde Park. Nevertheless, there will be huge interest in the final decision which will be made by the Connacht Council, who meet tonight.

Sunday, May 27th AFL Division 4 At Orchard Park: Elphin v Tulsk Lord Edwards. 1 pm At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v Pádraig Pearses. 2 pm At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v St. Dominic’s. 2 pm At Enfield: St. Croan’s v St. Ronan’s. 2 pm AFL Division 5 At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v Oran. 2 pm At Kilteevan: St. Joseph’s v Ballinameen. 2 pm At Pairc Naomh Bearraí: St. Barry’s v Boyle. 2 pm At Ballinlough: Michael Glavey’s v Kilmore. 3 pm

Ciaran Comerford (pictured earlier Underage update this year) will have been much

Thursday, May 24th U-14 Football League Division 1 Knockout (7.30 pm) At Strokestown: Boyle v Roscommon Gaels At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v St. Brigid’s At Strokestown: Strokestown v Kilbride Friday, May 25th U-16 Football League Division 3 Knockout At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v St. Faithleach’s. 7.30 pm Sunday, May 27th U-16 Football League Division 1 Knockout At Ballyleague: Clann na nGael v Boyle. 12 pm At Ballyforan: St. Brigid’s v Pádraig Pearses. 4.30 pm U-16 Football League Division 2 Knockout (6 pm) At Enfield: Elphin-Ballinameen v Roscommon Gaels U-16 Football League Division 4 Knockout At Ballyforan: Western Gaels-Tulsk v St. Brigid’s. 6 pm At Ballyforan: Pádraig Pearses v St. Croan’s. 7.30 pm

Monday, May 28th U-16 Hurling League Group 1 (7 pm) At Carrick Hurling Club: Carrick Hurling Club (St. Mary’s) v Longford Slashers At Four Roads: Four Roads v Pádraig Pearses U-16 Hurling League Group 2 At Athleague\Tremane: Athleague\Tremane v Tooreen At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v St. Dominic’s

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

ConnachtSFCSemi-Final:Leitrim v Roscommon on Saturday at 5.30 pm

Rossie ﬁrepower will see them progress Travel advice ahead of Saturday’s game

SFC Semi-Final Ahead of Saturday’s Connachttrim in Carrick-onLei and between Roscommon ation with An Shannon, and following consult , Roscommon GAA trim Garda Siochána and Lei y. GAA has issued a travel advisorporters as It is advised that as many sup urday via possible travel to Carrick on Satrc Sean from the Rooskey and then approach Pai ters can also Longford side on the N4. SupporElphin and travel travel through Strokestown orJamestown and on through Kilmore and on to the Longford approach Carrick on the N4 from side. bridge going “With everyday traffic on the a huge back-up be l wil re the ns, ctio in both dire the Boyle side of traffic coming into town from as possible ple peo ny ma as ask uld so we wo side,” said to approach from the Longford n Carroll. Bria ary ret Sec GAA n Roscommo Longford side Parking is available on N4 on the tions: of Carrick at the following loca at Shannon tion sta g llin • Beside Kennedy’s fi Business Park Park • Gilmartins Cash & Carry old Car Attyrory • Castle Cara road • Carrick Community School • Aura Sports Leisure Centre • Tesco Car Park • Woodies Car Park • Advant Card Public car park

Connacht SFC Semi-Final: Leitrim v Roscommon on Saturday at Pairc Sean Mac Diarmada in Carrick-on-Shannon at 5.30 pm. Referee: Joe McQuillan (Cavan)  SEAMUS DUKE

It’s championship time once again and as the years pass by it seems to come around quicker every season! Once again, the footballing Gods have smiled on Roscommon as they prepare to set out on another summer journey. There will be those who will be trying to sugar coat this local derby painting it up as a thriller waiting to happen, but the reality is that if Roscommon don’t win this game comfortably then they are looking at a short enough campaign this year. Yes, complacency has got to be a factor from a Roscommon point of view. Even an astute and street-wise manager like Kevin McStay cannot prevent his players from allowing their minds to stray beyond the confines of ‘Pairc Sean’ and on to bigger tests. It’s only natural. But he will have to ensure that they have enough of their wits about them to get the job done on Saturday. Many Roscommon people I have been talking to over the past few weeks are expecting a very easy Roscommon win but it may not be as easy as all that. The tight, tense and tough championship win that Leitrim had to fight so hard for in New York will have injected hope and confidence into their effort. While I am predicting a Roscommon win, they may well have to fight hard to achieve it. I am being cautious but I am still expecting

the Rossies to have too much in the locker for what will be an enthusiastic but limited home challenge. Roscommon’s excellent league campaign, which saw them promoted to Division One and win the final against Cavan in great style, was in marked contrast to Leitrim’s struggles in Division Four. Those facts cannot be ignored. It’s a different ball game when the ground is hard and the sun is high in the sky, but the reality is that you can wax lyrical all you like about great GAA local rivalries, but the gap between Roscommon and Leitrim is huge. The beauty of these fixtures is that it provides for great banter and slagging between the two sets of fans particularly along the border between the two counties and that has an annual attraction. The aims of both sides could not be different. Roscommon want to have a cut at retaining their Connacht title and get into the Super 8s. Leitrim want to rattle Roscommon and give them a fright or two along the way. Leitrim are in bonus territory now. Many people thought they would slip up in New York but now they have escaped from Gaelic Park with a win, they can go hell for leather against Roscommon with nothing to lose. Roscommon’s injury woes are easing, but Seanie McDermott, Ultan Harney and Niall Daly are unlikely to feature on Saturday. However, Kevin McStay and his selectors have plenty of other options. The defence will be along expected lines with John McManus back in contention. He may well appear in the halfback line this week with Peter Domican in the number three jersey. At midfield it looks like Tadgh O’Rourke and Cathal Compton will be the chosen duo. In at-

tack the absence of Ciaran Lennon means that there will be a new full-forward. Enda Smith, Fintan Cregg or Cathal Cregg look like possible replacements for the Clann na nGael man. Remember too that the talented Shane Killoran is back to full fitness. That’s a bonus and an added attacking option. The Leitrim talisman is Emlyn Mulligan and the gifted attacker will bring plenty of enthusiasm and confidence into this game. Donal Wrynn is also a tried and tested performer and James Rooney, Keith Beirne and the New York hero Noel Plunkett will all be lining out for the home side. Mark Plunkett and Donal Flynn will be at midfield and will hope to get a foothold for their side in that vital area. In the championship, scores win games and Roscommon’s attack looks potent. The Murtaghs, Donie Smith, Conor Devaney, Cathal Cregg, Enda Smith and Shane Killoran to mention but a few are all top class players and they have the finishing power to get Roscommon the scores they will need. Leitrim will throw a defensive blanket across the 45-metre line and Roscommon will have to be patient and prepared to wait until the openings appear. But I’m sure that the Rossies will have a game plan to counteract that. The weather is promised warm and there is sure to be a big crowd at Pairc Sean. I am expecting that Leitrim will be in the game for 50 minutes and that they will throw the kitchen sink at Roscommon. But the simple facts are that Kevin McStay’s men have too many good footballers in their ranks and I expect Roscommon to pull away and win by seven or eight points in the end. Prediction: Roscommon

Kilroy: ‘Conﬁdent we can get the job done’  SEAMUS DUKE

Niall Kilroy will be hoping to help power Roscommon into another Connacht Final at the expense of neighbours Leitrim this Saturday. Pic: Andrew Fox

Niall Kilroy is one of the ‘go to’ men on the Roscommon team now. Over the past two years in particular the Fuerty man has become one of the lynch-pins of Kevin McStay’s side and one of his trusted generals on the field of play. His work-rate, clever use of the ball and link up-play between defence and attack was a feature of Roscommon’s play in their Connacht title win last year, and their run to the Division 2 league title earlier in 2018. Niall is experienced enough to know that anything less than 100% effort could be very costly against underdogs Leitrim on Saturday. He told People Sport he is happy with Roscommon’s form coming into this Connacht semi-final. “Our form is good, it was great to win the league. We didn’t play brilliantly in some of the league outings but the aim was to improve in every game and I think we did that.

We had a few weeks off and we went back to our clubs and that was great and good for us all I think. We are back training with the county four or five weeks and we feel we are ready now and looking forward to the championship”. Niall says that Leitrim’s tough and tight championship game against New York will mean that they will be battle hardened coming into the game. “You cannot beat a championship game. It’s better than any league game or training session. The fact that they have a game under their belts means an ever tougher game for us in Carrick,” he said. There have been a few injures in the squad in the run-up to Saturday’s semi-final but Niall says that all part and parcel of the game. “It’s unfortunate, but injuries happen and the most important thing is that we have a strong squad at every training session with everyone fighting for a starting place and that’s very important. The lads who can’t play are wishing the start-

ers the best of luck and it’s a happy camp that way”. Roscommon have a very good record in Carrick-onShannon but Niall says he is not passing too much heed on past glories. “We know what’s ahead of us. Carrick-on-Shannon is a tough venue to go to and Leitrim will have a huge home following there. We know we have to be ready for this game and if we are not ready we will be out of the Connacht championship. It’s as simple as that”. A place in the Connacht final is a huge incentive and after the experience of tasting success last year, Niall wants to get to another provincial decider. “It is big chance for us but it’s a big chance for Leitrim too but I can assure you we are not looking beyond this Leitrim match. Make no mistake, Leitrim are eyeing up this match too as one to win but we are confident that we can go to Carrick and get the job done,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018

ConnachtSFCSemi-Final:Leitrim v Roscommon on Saturday at 5.30 pm

? Roscommon v Leitrim

Did You Know? Roscommon and Leitrim have faced each other 41 times in the championship. Roscommon have recorded 27 wins, Leitrim 11 wins and there have been 3 draws. Leitrim’s last win against Roscommon was in July 2000 when they won at Dr Hyde Park by 1-13 to 3-6. Roscommon’s last win against Leitrim was In the Connacht semi-final in June 2017 at Dr Hyde Park when the final score was Roscommon 2-23 Leitrim 1-9. Roscommon and Leitrim meet for a third successive season, with Roscommon having won by 17 points last year and by 13 points in 2016. Roscommon, the defending Connacht champions, are having their first outing in this year’s campaign while Leitrim beat New York (0-19 to 1-15 after extra-time) in the quarter-final in Gaelic Park.

Last Five Championship Matches: 2017: Roscommon 2-23 Leitrim 1-9 (Connacht semi-final) 2016: Roscommon 1-21 Leitrim 0-11 (Connacht quarter-final) 2014: Roscommon 2-18 Leitrim 0-13 (Connacht quarter-final) 2011: Roscommon 2-12 Leitrim 0-6 (Connacht semi-final) 2010: Roscommon 1-13 Leitrim 0-11 (Connacht semi-final) Roscommon have beaten Leitrim by an average of over 12 points in their last four championship meetings. Leitrim have scored only one goal in their last five championship clashes with Roscommon. It was scored by Darragh Rooney in last year’s Connacht semi-final. Leitrim’s last championship win over Roscommon was in 2000, which was also the last time they reached the Connacht final. The first ever all-ticket Connacht championship game was the clash of Roscommon and Leitrim at Pairc Sean Mac Diarmada In June 1993. 10,000 people attended and saw Roscommon edge out their neighbours by 1-12 to 1-10 in a thrilling encounter. Roscommon are going for their eighth successive championship win over Leitrim. The winners will play Galway or Sligo in the Connacht final on June 17.

McHale keen for Rossies to defend their title  SEAMUS DUKE

Tried and trusted former teammate, best friend and talented football coach. That’s the relationship between manager Kevin McStay and his right-hand man, Liam McHale. The former Irish midfielder and basketball international has been part of the furniture in the backroom team in Roscommon for the past three years and after so many years playing and on the sideline, the championship always means a step up in excitement and anticipation and this year is no different. “I have to say I am really looking forward to the championship now. We have had a two month gap since we played in the league and it has been a long wait. Everyone is anxious now and we are really relishing this game on Saturday. We have had some great challenge games over the past couple of weeks and bar a few injuries I am very happy with how things are going,” he said. The injury list seems to be growing but Liam says it’s not as bad as it could be. “We are concerned about Ultan (Harney) but Cathal Compton will be Ok, Fergal Lennon has a back issue, Cathal Cregg has a bit of a problem but he looks Ok, but every team has a problem with injuries. I am hopeful still that Ultan will be available because he is key man. But we will get on with it and hopefully a lot of the guys

will be ready for the game against Leitrim”. Liam says that the tough game Leitrim had against New York will be a big boost to their confidence ahead of Saturday’s game. “That game will bring them on in terms of their football. We were in the same boat when we played New York two years ago and were glad to get out by a point. That game will be better than two weeks training to them. They are at home and they will be mad keen to have a cut at us,” he said. Roscommon’s league win and promotion will make them an even bigger target for Leitrim according to Liam. “Roscommon would be regarded as a big scalp now for sure. I am long enough around Connacht football to know that if we go to Carrick and our heads are not screwed on properly it could be a very long evening there. We are very keen to emphasise to the players the task that is ahead of us. The Leitrim boys will come out all guns blazing and we have to be ready for that. “Make no mistake, at home they will be dangerous and they will have fire in their bellies and if they get a few scores early anything can happen, but we have prepared well. It’s all about getting focussed and getting our minds right. If everyone does their job, and we play the game on our terms, we should be Ok,” he said. Liam admits however that it is a game that Roscommon should

Selector Liam McHale is hoping Roscommon have the last laugh over Leitrim this Saturday in Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Andrew Fox

be expecting to win. If we play well we will win it but we have to impose ourselves on the game. Leitrim are not going to hand anything to us. It will be tough make no mistake about that and especially in the first quarter we will have to weather the storm and play the football we know we can play”. He believes that this is a stronger Roscommon team than it was in 2017. “It’s a young team but we are another year down the road now. We are gathering experience in championship and league as we go on. We are far more resilient now. We won a few games in the league that we looked like losing but we stuck in there and found a way to win. There are lads like Ultan Harney, Ciaran Lennon, Fergal Lennon, Cathal Cregg, the Dalys and Cathal Compton that we didn’t have last year and we have a stronger panel. I think we have more power and more size too and that’s important.” The prize for the winners of this game is a place in the Connacht final and Liam says he wants Roscommon back in the decider to defend their title. “We are the Connacht champions and a lot of people forget that. We are very keen to defend our Connacht title and whoever wins this match will have a chance of a Connacht title and a place in the Super 8s and we want to win that game and get that chance,” he concluded.

O’Mahony plots Roscommon’s downfall  SEAMUS DUKE

I have been dealing with John O’Mahony for over 25 years. The former Mayo, Leitrim, Galway and St. Brigid’s manager has so much experience with so many teams. It is a measure of his love for the game that he is still involved and on Saturday he will take his place on the sideline as a selector alongside his old friend Benny Guckian as they plot the downfall of Roscommon in the championship one more time. We became good friends during Leitrim’s epic Connacht Championship win in 1994 and he retains his huge enthusiasm for the game to this day. He is a deep thinker about the game and was way ahead of his time tactically when in charge of Mayo, Leitrim and Galway. The friendships that the Ballaghaderreen man made in Leitrim during that magical time in the 90s endure to this day, and he immediately answered the call when Benny Guckian wanted him in his backroom team after his appointment. The win in New York was absolutely huge and John acknowledged that when we spoke on Tuesday. “It was so important for this young Leitrim team. We have a lot of lads 20, 21 and 22-years-old and for them to come through such a test was huge. Both sides

Leitrim selector John O’Mahony will be on the sideline with manager Benny Guckian this Saturday. Pic: Andrew Fox

showed inexperience in that match. New York didn’t hold on to possession when they were three points up late on, and once our lads got a point or two their confidence rose. But it was important for the

Leitrim team to win that match especially for the future. A loss in New York would have been very negative for this young team,” he said. John says that a well-known Roscom-

mon man caused them a number of headaches in that game in the Big Apple. “Neil Collins was outstanding for New York and he caused us endless problems. He was picked corner back, but he was everywhere and he scored as well and was involved in everything positive that they did. He is a big loss to Roscommon next Saturday”. John knows that expectations will be much different this Saturday when Roscommon come calling. “It’s true that Leitrim can give it a lash now that they have beaten New York but we want to give Roscommon a good hard championship game and if the Leitrim lads were not confident going out then they are wasting their time. We are under no illusions about what we are facing but we can go out on Saturday and give it everything”. Local rivalry and the different pace of championship fare will give Leitrim a fighting chance says John. “There is a great rivalry between the two counties as I know so well over the years. I’m confident that Leitrim will give it a serious rattle and it would be great for our young team to do that. The most important thing from a Leitrim point of view is that we play to our potential and if we do that then we can ask for no more. I’m looking forward to it I have to say even after all the years,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 25 May 2018