2019.01.18 by Roscommon People

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SOCIAL PEOPLE

18 January 2019

– SEE INSIDE –

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 613

Weight Watchers

iles and athrooms

IS MOVING Athleague, Roscommon – 090 6663385 ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620 WW is opening in its new venue – The Core (old Presbyterian church), Church Street, Roscommon on Tuesday 29th January Class times 11am to 12 and 7.30pm to 8.30pm

January Sale Now On CHRISTY CONNOLLY RECOVERY CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL. 094 9620793 MOB. 086 2505325 / 087 2505325 E: connollychristy@eircom.net • APPROVED RECYCLERS OF END OF LIFE VEHICLES • DESTRUCTION CERTS ISSUED • 24/7 RECOVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE

CAR SALES & SERVICE SELF DRIVE CAR HIRE AVAILABLE

Any enquiries to Ann 087 2362487

Full coverage on pages 21, 22 and 23

• Manual Handling • Abrasive Wheel • Working at Heights Training Courses For more information, contact:

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Happy New Year to all!

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Headache Hotel

Your Safety is Our Business

SALE continues

Sky TV & Sky Fibre & Talk was €92 Now €50 per month

Sean Richardson, Patrick Murray and Will O’Gara pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the FBD League semi-final between Roscommon and Sligo. Pic: Mick McCormack

KMCG Safety Solutions

Finn Electrical

Tommie KElly Electrical

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

Michael Fitzmaurice TD

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

• Personal Injury Actions • Child Injury Claims • Road Traffic Accidents Solicitors • Medical Accidents • Medical Negligence • Property Sales and Purchases | Lanesboro | Athlone • Farm and Site Transfers | Moate | Galway • Wills & Inheritance Law Central Line: 090 6478433 www.bccsolicitors.ie

FRANCES’ Finishing Touches

CASEY’S

THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON T.: 090 6626270. M. 087 6500931 E. francesfinishingtoughces@gmail.com

ROSCOMMON

Please ring the Constituency Office in advance to make an appointment Tel: 090 66 28479

Curtain Fabric reduced to €5 per yard

or email michael.fitzmaurice @oireachtas.ie

Voiles and Taffetas €2 per yard

Large range of Wool reduced

Kerosene

65.9c per litre

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

Sculpted by Aimee Connolly

Flooring/ Furniture

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople

People WATCHING

ROSCOMMON

Painting Services Professional Painters & Decorators

Stephen Reynolds (086) 1987023 Enda Hoban (087) 2739726

THINGS WE DID LIKE THIS WEEK…

A win is a win is a…

The fire at the vacant Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey

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

THINGS WE DIDN’T LIKE THIS WEEK…

What Rooskey didn’t need

NEW LEARNER DRIVER LAWS I would appreciate if you would please clarify the new legal position regarding learner drivers. Please explain the implications for a car owner if a learner driver drives their car. Up until December 22nd last the law provided that learner drivers had to be accompanied by someone holding a full licence of at least two years standing. If the learner driver was caught driving unaccompanied they faced a maximum fine of €1,000. The person who owned the car would not face any punishment. However, new laws will now see both the learner driver and the vehicle owner held equally responsible while also giving Gardaí more power. Anyone who loans a car to an unaccompanied learner driver could face fines of up to €2,000 or six months in prison if prosecuted. Gardaí will also have the power to seize the vehicle driven by an unaccompanied learner driver. The measures will apply to all vehicles, including private cars, agricultural vehicles and commercial vehicles. Incidentally, the amended Road Traffic Act also amended the law pertaining to drink-driving penalties to ensure that a mandatory driving ban is handed down to all those caught drinkdriving. Previously, a motorist who was detected driving with between 50 and 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood received penalty points and a fine for a first offence. The law now provides that a mandatory driving ban will be handed down for a first drink-driving offence if a motorist has a blood/alcohol level of above 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres. This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

The fire at the vacant Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey, believed to have been started deliberately, has rightly been widely condemned. It was a deeply unwelcome, and – assuming it was arson – unacceptable act. It is of course an isolated incident which is in no way reflective of the community in Rooskey.

A storm in a temple… The row over Taoiseach Leo Varadkar visiting a male-only temple in Ethiopia was tiresome. Suffice to say, it raged on social media and on Liveline. Varadkar was criticised for visiting the temple while female members of his entourage had to wait outside. Naturally, several rent-a-quote opposition politicians had a go at him too. The Taoiseach could perhaps have decided not to visit the temple, but that would have offended his hosts. He was, after all, being invited into an Ethiopian Orthodox Church…most people will feel that diplomacy has to prevail in such situations, and that the Taoiseach really had to be mindful of local traditions/beliefs/customs. Bit of a storm in a temple…

Read this and weep… An inquiry which is investigating write-offs on loans at the former Anglo Irish Bank will itself cost a staggering €30m. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar updated the Dáil on the new costs of the Commission of Investigation into Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (IBRC) – formerly Anglo Irish Bank. The final cost could actually exceed €30m, he indicated. The initial ‘transaction’ took three months – the inquiry referred to is now in its fifth year. This country? Sometimes it feels like we’re all in a Monty Python sketch (except it ain’t that funny).

I didn’t get to the Hyde on Sunday as I was in Rooskey, but I kept in touch via Willie Hegarty. Even when Roscommon were a few points behind, I wasn’t too concerned. Roscommon would have wind advantage in the second half, and it was reasonable to expect that the home team would do the business, which they did. And so, a winning start for new manager Anthony Cunningham. Next up is the FBD Final against Galway this Sunday in Tuam Stadium.

Not quite a shed-load of money…but welcome Here at the Roscommon People, we’re big fans of Men’s Sheds – and try to promote them when we can. They play a very important and arguably under-appreciated role in society. Many men live alone, often in isolated areas, increasingly with limited social interaction. This at least is the reality for some Men’s Sheds members. We were pleased this week to see some more Government funding for these groups. That great purse string releaser Michael Ring is providing some much-needed funds for Men’s Sheds in Ballaghaderreen, Ballyleague, Boyle and Castlerea (and in Co. Galway, for groups in Dunmore, Ballinasloe and Ballygar).

Ah…the memories! Absolutely adored Laurel and Hardy when I was a kid. Surely everyone did? Delighted so with the release of a new movie which looks at the lives of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. Stars Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly have been on a media blitz, appearing last weekend on the Graham Norton Show (BBC) and the Late Late Show (RTE). Coogan, who is always happy to highlight his Irish roots (and where better than on the LLS!) is getting better as the years go by – his straight acting/‘serious’ roles (as he has observed himself) further enhancing an already sparkling reputation. If you’re not already a fan, check out his brilliant ‘I’m Alan Partridge’ series on Gold. Anyways, this new film on the great comedy duo Laurel and Hardy is getting very good reviews. Hopefully it will introduce the brilliant double act to new generations of fans!

Good WEEK

Our Person(s) of the Week…

It was a good week for local clubs in Scór as Roscommon won four provincial titles at the Scór finals in Castlebar last weekend: Kilglass Gaels (quiz), St. Dominic’s (figure dancing), Evan Gunn, Elphin (recitation), and St. Dominic’s (Léiriú) can all take a bow. Congrats to all involved! Pictured on right is Evan Gunn, Elphin, winner of the Recitation competition in the Connacht finals of Scór na nÓg Chonnacht 2019

Bad WEEK It was a bad week for Theresa May (oh, you know the rest!). A massive defeat in the House of Commons vote on her Brexit deal has made a big crisis even bigger. Still, she’s shown some great resilience these last several months. It’s easy for critics to shout from the sidelines. Assuming Mrs. May survived the vote of no confidence last night (Wednesday) she will now begin the process of trying to avoid a ‘crash out’ Brexit. Having ‘lost the house’, she’s now reaching out to members of her own party and opposition MPs, in a bid to hatch together a consensus. Er…to be continued…

Congratulations to Simon Meehan, a transition year student at Coláiste Choilm in Ballincollig, who was announced as overall winner at the 2018 BT Young Scientist & Technology exhibition.

Quote of the Week… “This is the end of the McBully” – Galway businessman Joe McDonagh reacts to his company (Supermac’s) winning its long running case against McDonald’s Compiled by PAUL HEALY

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople Man charged in relation to Strokestown incident

People NEWS

‘Carbon tax increases would cripple rural Ireland’

A 54-year-old Donegal man is due to appear at Harristown District Court in Castlerea tomorrow (Friday) charged with violent disorder relating to an incident at a farmhouse at Falsk, Strokestown on December 16th. PJ Sweeney, with an address at High Cairn, Ramelton, Co. Donegal, appeared before a special sitting of Castlerea district court last Saturday. Evidence of arrest, charge and caution was presented at a special sitting of Roscommon District Court to Judge Deirdre Gearty by Sgt. Maura McGarry from Boyle Garda Station. After a short hearing, Judge Gearty refused an application for bail and remanded Mr. Sweeney in custody to appear at a sitting of the District Court in Castlerea on Friday.

Councillor

Ivan Connaughton Drop in Clinic Every Monday 10am to 11am in Athleague Office – no appointment necessary Ivan is available to meet by Appointment Weekly in the following locations Athleague Office Dysart • Dysart Community Centre Ballinasloe • The Birchgrove Public House • Dolan’s Service Station Athlone/Kiltoom • The Athlone Springs Hotel • Hodson Bay Hotel Lecarrow • St. Johns Community Centre

Tel: 090-6663700 • Mobile: 086-8985013 E-mail: ivanconnaughton14@gmail.com

HAIR & BEAUTY Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. Email: deluxehairandbeautycurraghboy@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/deluxecurraghboy/

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Pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the FBD League semi-final between Roscommon and Sligo. Pic: Mick McCormack

Bridge works commence in Kilbegnet Cllr. Ivan Connaughton has welcomed the news that works commenced on Kilbegnet Bridge last Tuesday (15th) that will see a new 900mm pipe inserted to alleviate the backup of water after heavy rainfall. The L-1820 road will be closed to accommodate the works until this Friday (18th) and diversions are in place via Rosmoylan road. “I have been continuously making representations to get this work done for the

past three years and I welcome this news. “I will now be working with the owners of the adjoining homes and Kilbegnet Development Association to seek additional funding from Roscommon County Council to deal with surface water issue on the road. I will also seek additional car parking beside this bridge, which is badly needed for the adjoining cemetery where the road is narrow and is a serious problem at funeral times,” Cllr Connaughton said.

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Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice claims that any increase in the carbon tax in future Budgets would have the potential to “cripple those living in rural Ireland”. Deputy Fitzmaurice was heavily critical of An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and other politicians for supporting such measures. “If the tax was to increase to €80 per tonne, a total of 21.2c would be added to the price of a litre of diesel… then people in rural Ireland will be forced to carry the burden once again. “The Taoiseach has continued to repeat the line that the tax is not designed to take money out of people’s pockets, but rather to encourage a change in behaviour. “But people in rural Ireland – and especially farmers – will have an unfair burden to carry once again, compared to those living in cities. “It is obvious that those living in cities would find it easier to lead a low-carbon lifestyle versus a person living in the countryside. “People in cities have better access to public transport and are also likely to have a variety of services on their doorstep. On the other hand, a car is a necessity for someone living in rural Ireland. “It is ironic that the Taoiseach is advocating for an increase to the carbon tax at a time when rural bus routes are being cut and when pensioners are being forced to travel longer distances to get to post offices in order to collect their pensions,” he said. The Roscommon-Galway TD also believes any carbon tax increase would have an adverse effect on agriculture. “If the carbon tax was increased in the next Budget, the price of fuel would jump as well – further harming the already tight profit margins achieved by farmers when they bring their produce to market after months of labour. “This fuel hike would also see the price of food for all consumers rise, given that the produce is transported around the country by lorries. “It is evident that this notion that significant increases to the carbon tax in the next Budget will set us on the right path to bridging the gap to our EU climate change targets was dreamed up inside the M50, without any thought for those living in rural Ireland,” Deputy Fitzmaurice said.

European U-22 Boxing Champion Aoife O’Rourke was honoured at the recent civic reception hosted by Roscommon County Council. She is pictured with the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council, Eugene Cummins and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Independent TD Denis Naughten has welcomed the appointment of a contractor to build the new second level school, Coláiste Chiaráin, at Summerhill, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The Department of Education has now appointed JJ Rhatigan for what is a major building project which will see a completely new school designed to cater for up to 1,000 pupils from south Roscommon and the west side of Athlone. The new school will have 37 classrooms along with science laboratories, home economics room and a large PE hall. Denis Naughten said: “With the new school to be constructed on a 28-acre site, there is ample room for the development of sporting and other facilities, which will not only benefit the pupils of Coláiste Chiaráin but also the wider community”.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Advertorial

The success of Roscommon Community College The success of Roscommon Community College, under the auspices of Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB), can be easily seen with the recent commencement notice to Roscommon County Council which will see the investment of the Department of Education & Skills in a new €1.5m extension. The building of a further five General Classrooms, one state-ofthe-art Home Economics Room, one cutting edge Science Laboratory, one purpose-built Special Education Classroom, additional male and female toilet facilities by the appointed contractors ‘McKelvey’s Construction’, reaffirms the outstanding educational practice being carried out at Roscommon Community College. Additionally, within the management structure of Roscommon Community College, the staff and students have welcomed a new Principal, Ms. Georgina Keena, which further reflects on the positive progression of their school. With a steadily increasing population, Roscommon Community College has a current enrolment of 475 students. This progression is without doubt the product of a well-focused and committed management team and teaching staff. This was evidenced in the Whole-School Inspection – Management, Leadership and Learn-

Deputy Principal, Jude Lohan officially welcoming Georgina Keena, as Principal to Roscommon Community College at the school’s recent Carol Service at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.

ing (WSE-MLL) in 2013 where they noted “the senior management team is very effective, having a vision for the school’s development and the capacity to progress the school’s developmental priorities”. Their efforts in collaboratively developing subject departments ensure student success and a high level of achievement is accomplished. This can be further evidenced in a recent DES inspection Report of their Mathematics Department Inspection carried out in November 2018, with the report stating that the “planning and preparation for mathematics are of a very high standard” and in a previous report in Novem-

ber 2015 for Science and Biology inspection where they stated “consistently high-quality teaching was observed in all the lessons visited”. This supports the fact Roscommon Community College is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of education. They believe that every student has a tremendous and unique potential and their aim is to enable this potential in a structured and focused way. This is reflected in the attainment levels and successes of their students in State Examinations. Every year their students apply through the CAO for third level places and over 90% are offered their first or second choice. Their

highly effective Transition Year Programme allows students to engage in a variety of work practices that focuses their subject options going into 5th year and this gives them the opportunity to make right choices from the outset. Student successes are not limited to State Examinations but individual and group successes in both academic and sporting activities and endeavours outside of the classroom, as is encouraged within the school. Some of the competitions where students have excelled include: The Certified Irish Angus Beef Schools Competition, John Hooper Statistics Awards, Enterprise Awards, Strokestown Poetry Competition, Young Scientist and Lego League. These ensure that all students can get more involved in the school community, resulting in a friendly and open atmosphere with very high morale. Roscommon Community College is continuously extending its student support services to cater for the and needs of their students. These include: Supervised Evening Study…operating daily for two hours each evening; Homework Club (for students who need additional assistance with their homework under the guidance and support of a qualified teachers); School Lunch Scheme…provides a free and nutritious lunch for each student; Care

The George Moore Scholarship: No Mind Left Behind Programme: Congratulations to Lucas Hand-Rowkins and Jack Donnelly, who were the successful recipients of The George Moore Scholarship to the value of €12,000 each. Presenting the scholarship is Edwina Finneran, Career Guidance Counsellor (left) and Jude Lohan, Deputy Principal (right).

Team…to assist students experiencing personal difficulty; School Completion Programme (SCP) – innovative programmes and interventions to combat disadvantage; and Home School Community Liaison Officer (HSCL) to promote and develop real partnership between parents, teachers and

communities, in order to enhance student outcomes. They are looking forward with great enthusiasm to the progress they are going to make as they build upon their school developments and continue to provide a quality education both academically and socially for every student in their care.

They would like to take this opportunity to thank their past and present students, teachers, parents, support staff and community members for their contribution to making Roscommon Community College an exceptional school and a great environment in which to learn and grow.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople

NEWS…at a glance

Roscommon Macra tractor run on February 3rd Roscommon Macra will hold a tractor run on Sunday, February 3rd. Registration will take place from 12 noon, with the run starting a 1 pm. The route will take in Brideswell, Dysart, Taughmaconnell and then back to Brideswell. All proceeds raised will be divided equally between Roscommon Macra and the IWA Cuisle Holiday Centre in Donamon.

discount, the rest is covered by Roscommon SPCA. This community-based programme is run by Roscommon SPCA and part-funded by the Department of Agriculture animal welfare grant for 2019 and donations received. The programme will run whilst funding is available. To apply, email your name, address, contact number and vet details to spca@ roscommonspca.ie or phone 087-0505594.

Blood donation clinic at the Abbey Hotel Tonight (Thursday 17th) is the last night of the current blood donation clinic at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town. The clinic will run from 5 pm to 8.30 pm. For more information call LoCall 1850-731137.

Knockcroghery Community Alert meeting

Thank you from St Vincent de Paul

There will be a public meeting of Knockcroghery Community Alert in Knockcroghery Community Centre on Monday, January 21st at 9 pm. Those wishing to sign up to the Text Alert system can do so on the night. Senan, Jessica and Gerry Lohan pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the FBD League semi-final between Roscommon and Sligo. Pic: Mick McCormack

Underwater Search & Rescue annual collection The Roscommon Underwater Search & Rescue Unit will hold their annual church gate collection on Saturday and Sunday (19th and 20th) at the following Churches: Boyle, Croghan, Drumlion, Aughrim, Dangan (Kilmore), Arigna, Keadue, Cootehall, Crossna,

Drumboylan, Ballinameen, Corrigeenroe, Elphin, Creeve, Frenchpark, Ballinagare, Breedogue, Mantua, Tulsk, Killina and Kilmurray. All monies collected will go towards the maintenance of the unit. The club would like to thank you for your generous support in the past and hope that you will be able to support this collection.

RSPCA spaying and neutering programme Roscommon SPCA has commenced a spaying, neutering and microchip programme this week. Owners can have cats and dogs spayed/neutered, and dogs microchipped and registered at a

St. Vincent de Paul in Roscommon town are sincerely thankful for all donations of money, food and toys received before Christmas. A special word of appreciation to the children from local and surrounding schools, who, through their Christmas tree appeal, carol singing and food collections, helped greatly. As the demand for services continues to grow, all donations are really appreciated. The local St. Vincent de Paul contact number is 086-0741352 or there is a postbox in St. Coman’s Club, Abbey Street, Roscommon town.

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

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople

Rahara NS Open Evening 2019 All welcome on Thursday, 24 January The staff of Rahara N.S. will host an Open Evening on Thursday, 24th of January between 6-7 pm. If your child is scheduled to start school in September 2019 or if you are contemplating changing schools, please come along and visit us before making your decision. This is a unique opportunity to come and see what our school has to offer your child. Rahara N.S. boasts two Mainstream class teachers and one Special Education teacher. The low pupilteacher ratio in Rahara N.S. is a huge advantage to pupils and allows teachers to easily identify individual talents and the unique needs of each student, which offers a more personalised educational experience. Furthermore, we have the option of supervised play-time for all Junior and Senior Infant pupils from 2-3 pm daily. This gives parents more flexibility as they only have one pick-up per day from Rahara N.S. We also have a Homework Club which is supervised by local

Montessori teacher, Teresa Nally and operates from 3 pm-4.30 pm, Monday to Thursday. Between our extended Infant opening time and our Homework Club, we truly are offering a great package to busy parents. Although we are a small school we are a very busy school. All pupils are afforded the opportunity to get involved in many initiatives. The senior pupils of Rahara NS have achieved great success in the SEAI ‘One Good Idea’ competition for the fourth year in a row! This year a team has been selected to go forward to the semi-final stages of the competition. The team, ‘Electro Girls’, have to create a campaign to raise awareness about saving energy. Next they must prepare a four-minute presentation for the SEAI judges. The ‘One Good Idea’ is a nationwide primary school project on energy efficiency and climate change. We look forward to their upcoming campaign and wish them luck in the semi-finals. The Green Schools

Congratulations to Jun Hwang and Lorrainne Moran who won silver & gold medals at the Connaght Minor Schools Swimming Gala. They will represent their school & province in the National Aquatic Centre in February.

programme plays a very important role in Rahara. We are currently working towards our 8th Green Schools Award for Global Citizenship-Marine Environment. The pupils have engaged in field trips to Silver Strand in Galway to learn about our coastal marine environment and also visited a local river in Lecarrow to learn about

local marine habitats. The Senior pupils were invited to display their project ‘Zebra Mussels- An Alien Invasion’ at the Green Schools Expo at the RDS in Dublin in March. We pride ourselves on keeping our school clean and tidy and in December we were awarded ‘Best Hanging baskets and Window Boxes’ in the Ros-

common County Council Tidy Schools competition. The pupils are very proud of this achievement as the pupils used their own home-made compost and planted only ‘pollinator friendly’ flowers. Sport also plays a very important role in our school. We have a large playing field, yard and indoor hall. The pupils have trainers for soccer, gaelic, swimming and tennis. Pupils enter into Cumann na mBunscol competitions and FAI Soccer competitions. We also embark on History field trips, including Clonmacnoise and Strokestown House. To give you a flavour of life in Rahara National School, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook. Come along on Thursday evening, 24th of January between 6-7 pm to experience first-hand the wonderful atmosphere in our school. Our school motto is ‘Believe, Receive, Achieve, Respect, Connect, Learn’. You can also follow us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/Rahara National School or on our website www.rahara.com

newsbriefs Shine a Light Ecumenical Service The Mayo/Roscommon Hospice ‘Let Love Shine a Light’ Ecumenical Service will take place at St. John’s Rest and Care Centre, Knock on Sunday, January 20th at 3.45 pm. All those for whom lights were sponsored on the Tree of Light will be remembered at the Service. All are welcome.

Healthy Ireland at your library As part of the Healthy Ireland at Your Library programme, the following events will take place this January at Roscommon Library: Tuesday, January, 22nd (6.30 pm-8 pm): Getting a good night’s sleep, with Paul Marsden; Tuesday, January 29th (6.30 pm-8 pm): Beginner’s Yoga for adults, with Avril Mullally. Events are free – however, booking is essential by phone on 090-6637277/090-6637282 or by email: lkeane@ roscommoncoco.ie.

Four Roads lights up! In conjunction with Operation Transformation, Four Roads Healthy Club have organised a walk in Tisrara Community Sports Park every Thursday for six weeks, starting tonight (Thursday 17th) and running until Thursday February 21st, from 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm. Ireland Lights Up is a national initiative to improve the health of the country throughout communities across Ireland. Tisrara Community Sports Park will be lit up and the Four Roads group will be walking every Thursday for six weeks. This is open to the whole community (all ages) and is free of charge.

Ardcarne talk on reducing Alzheimer’s risk Join Dr. Wilma Lourens at Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle, this Saturday (19th) from 11 am to 12.30 pm for another talk on how to reduce your risk of developing cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Lourens will also be joined by Raluca Tuluianu, a qualified physical activity coach. To book your place contact Ardcarne Garden Centre in Boyle on 071-9667091.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople

More election runners chosen Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin last week chose candidates for the upcoming local elections. Following the withdrawal of sitting councillor Rachel Doherty, Fianna Fáil confirmed the selection of fellow councillors John Cummins and Joe Murphy as well as party activist Aidan Sampey, who ran in the 2014 local elections, at the party’s Boyle area convention in The Percy French Hotel in Strokestown on January 10th. Sinn Féin confirmed Cas-

tlerea’s Seamus O’Brien, sitting councillor and Ballaghaderreen native, Michael Mulligan and Monskland’s Joe Harney at the party’s selection convention last Friday night in Gleeson’s Restaurant and Rooms in Roscommon town. Meanwhile, Fine Gael has set dates for its Boyle and Carrick-on-Shannon selection conventions. The Boyle convention will be held in The Percy French

Hotel in Strokestown on January 25th and nominations close today (Thursday 17th). Two candidates, Andrew Reynolds from Rooskey and Cllr. Liam Callaghan from Tulsk, have indicated their intention to stand. Carrick-on-Shannon candidates will be chosen on Tuesday, February 5th at the Bush Hotel. Cllr. Finola Armstrong-McGuire and Mohill native, Tom Mulligan are likely to contest.

The Boyle convention will be held in The Percy French Hotel in Strokestown on January 25th and nominations close today (Thursday 17th). Two candidates, Andrew Reynolds from Rooskey and Cllr. Liam Callaghan from Tulsk, have indicated their intention to stand.

STRAIGHT TALKING

WITH SEAMUS DUKE

After the pirates, the revolution… By the 1st of January 1989, most of the pirate radio stations in Ireland had closed or were in the process of closing down. The Radio and Television Act of 1988 introduced heavy penalties and potential jail terms for those who might support or advertise on such stations. This of course was paving the way for legal commercial local radio in Ireland and most of the new stations opened during the course of 1989. Locally, Midwest opened in the early summer of 1989, while Shannonside (as it was then) started out in November 1989. It was a brand new industry in the country, and one which this year celebrates its 30th birthday. Local radio is now part and parcel of the local community all over the country and, like local newspapers, the GAA and many other rural organisations, it is here to stay. I was part of the Shannonside

team that started life in Castle Street, Roscommon, where, under the management of John Morrin and Joe Finnegan, a new chapter was written in local

“

Once the initial couple of years were completed, these new radio stations had to stand on their own two feet and make money – which was easier said than done

media coverage. There were marvellous people involved. They were young and full of ideas. All involved worked very hard. I’m sure it was the same story in every other station throughout country. It was such an exhilarating time. But in truth we made many mistakes too. It was a new business. We were learning as we went along. Those early years were exciting and challenging in equal measure. I met many people over the years in local radio who are now friends for life, and many of the talented people I worked with have gone on to be stars on national TV and radio. There is definitely a book or two in the many experiences – both good and bad – over the years. At its inception, the local radio industry was looked upon with suspicion, but as time went by most people accepted that the service would add to the local community and that it wasn’t not

a threat to anyone. However, there was also a commercial reality. Once the initial couple of years were completed, these new radio stations had to stand on their own two feet and make money – which was easier said than done. Shannonside subsequently joined with Northern Sound, and the station has since been bought by the Radio Kerry Group. Similar

deals have been done all over the country as stations try to consolidate and survive. It’s hard to believe that the local radio industry is thirty years old this year. I’ve been part of it for most of that journey, and the memories are mostly positive. In terms of news, sport and current affairs, it had added to our lives, particularly in rural Ireland. Long may it continue.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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Healthy Feet FREE

Pictured at the charity walk in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in Knockcroghery on St. Stephen’s Day were Michael Byrne, Ciara Mullally and Thomas Hurley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the charity walk in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in Knockcroghery on St. Stephen’s Day were Seamus and Michelle Brennan, James Tarpey and Marian Brennan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Ballinlough crash victim to be laid to rest The young woman who died following a road traffic accident near Ballinlough last Friday will be laid to rest this Friday. Anne Grogan, right, of Cloonlough, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon passed away in hospital on Monday due to injuries she sustained after the car she was driving was involved in a collision with a van and a lorry. Originally from Granlahan, Anne was in her early 30s and was married to Ciaran Grogan. The couple had three children: Oisín, Odrán and baby Áine. A teacher at Ballyhaunis Community School, Anne was also very involved with Michael Glavey’s GAA Club. The club posted a tribute on Tuesday evening. “It is with great sadness the Michael Glavey’s GAA family have learned of the untimely passing due to a tragic accident of our dear Anne Grogan, née Keane. “Deepest sympathies are extended to her devoted husband Ciaran and their children Oisín, Odrán and baby Áine. To her parents Mattie and Phil, siblings Martin, Tommy, Mary, Sylvia, David and Jackie and her parents-in-law Joe and Breda and all her family members. “During her distinguished career with Michael Glavey’s she served as a player, winning many underage awards. Anne was a member

of the team who won the junior championship in 2003 and intermediate championship in 2005 and All-County League, also in 2005. “She also represented the club with Roscommon minors in 2001/2002. To add to her playing accolades was a hugely successful managerial career which saw Anne coach many teams

including our minor girls to win 4 county titles: 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011. A dedicated club officer she served in many roles; as ladies secretary, treasurer and children’s officer, a position she held until her untimely passing. “Anne will be sadly missed by the whole community including the heartbroken members of our Michael Glavey’s club family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh d’anam dílis, a Áine agus go dtuga Dia suaimhneas na síoraíochta duit ar neamh, xx.’ Ballyhaunis Community School described Anne as a much-loved member of the school community in a tribute on its website. “We will miss Anne’s dedication and professionalism as a teacher and, above all, we will miss her kindness and her warmth as a good friend. “Her loss is felt profoundly by the school community and this is only a shadow of the grief borne by her husband, children, parents, brothers and sisters”. Her remains will be reposing at McDonagh’s Funeral Home, Castlerea this evening (Thursday) from 4 pm to 7 pm. Funeral Mass will take place in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Ballinlough at 1.30 pm tomorrow (Friday) with burial afterwards in the local cemetery. May she rest in peace.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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Pictured at the charity walk in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in Knockcroghery on St. Stephen’s Day were Marie, Edward, Josephine and Marguerite Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the charity walk in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in Knockcroghery on St. Stephen’s Day were Lisa Martin, Grace Currid and Caoimhe Walsh. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the charity walk in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in Knockcroghery on St. Stephen’s Day were Martin Sherlock, David Brady and Pat O’Malley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the charity walk in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in Knockcroghery on St. Stephen’s Day were Kieran, Seán and Caoileann Nugent. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the charity walk in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in Knockcroghery on St. Stephen’s Day were members of Ukephoric–The Roscommon Ukulele Collective. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople Nutrition Advice Sessions

FURNITURE, CARPET & TIMBER FLOORING

Tired and in need of a boost after Christmas? Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores offers you the chance to talk to a nutritionist in store! Nutrition Advice sessions at Molloys: Interested in some useful tips on how to lose weight? Do you need help to curb your cravings and boost your energy levels in the New Year? Why not pop in to your local Molloys Pharmacy and ask Pharma Nord’s Helen McSharry what supplements to use to get you off to a flying start in 2019? Helen has great insight in the area of health and wellness. She will give you nutrition tips and recommend supplements that will make a real difference to you such as the Pharma Nord products which are manufactured to pharmaceutical standards.

Mathew Connor and Daniel Creaton pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the FBD League semi-final between Roscommon and Sligo. Pic: Mick McCormack

Boxer’s ﬂooding funds! important works will include the removal of vegetation and blockages alongside the channel and improve bed level gradient. “We all know the devastating impact flooding has caused to the local communities and I want to commend the Government’s strong commitment to

providing significant investment in flood relief and mitigation programmes. “This latest funding allocation follows on from a Government investment of €9m late last year to help advance flood relief schemes in Carrick-onShannon, Leitrim, Mohill and Dromod”.

Dates and Store Locations: IE_Pharmacy_Ad_Roscommon_128x155_0119

Senator Frank Feighan has welcomed a funding allocation of €23,122 for flood mitigation works at Lough Bran, Carrickon-Shannon. OPW Minister, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran gave funding approval to Leitrim County Council for this flood mitigation project. Senator Feighan said: “These

Here is where you will find Helen McSharry: 17th January 11am-1pm:

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17th January 3-5pm:

Bunree, Ballina

18th January 12-1pm

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24th January 10am-1pm:

Roscommon

25th January 10am-1pm:

Ballaghaderreen

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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St Angela’s College, Sligo responds to industry and societal demands

St Angela’s College, Sligo have developed two innovative programmes in response to the expanding role of the Home Economists and requirements within the Food sector. Subject to NUI Galway validation) the college will offer a new programme in Home Economics, through the CAO, in September 2019. The BA Home Economics will be a Level 8 honours, four-year degree that will have both a practical and theoretical focus. It is aimed at individuals who are passionate about the subject of Home Economics and aspire to be Home Economists working in the community or industry sector advocating sustainable health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities. The programme will consist of the three core disciplines within Home Economics: Food, Fashion, Design; and Family Resource Management which is taught in every year of the programme. In year three, students will be provided with an option to either study abroad for five months with one of the College’s partner Universities or to complete a fivemonth work placement in Ireland. Opportunities for applicants to enter the programme via non-standard entry routes (Mature and Access) will also be available. Graduates of the programme are likely to be employed by national, international, governmental or non-governmental agencies focusing on family and child well-being; consumer advocacy and health promotion. Graduates will have the capacity to work with both private and State organisations as food advisors or community Home Economists. There is

also the potential for graduates to take a commercial pathway and enter into the private business sector in the areas of food; textiles and fashion and interior ewntrepreneurship. The Bachelor of Applied Science course is aimed at individuals with a strong interest in food, nutrition and food product development and who also have an interest in developing a diverse range of entrepreneurial skills and business acumen. The Bachelor of Applied Science course seeks to prepare individuals for the challenges of producing foods safe for human consumption, developing more nutritious, healthier food options for dynamic, ever-changing markets. Graduates of the Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition, Food and Business Management will have attained the knowledge, skills and competencies that will enable them to obtain employment in a variety of food and associated industries. Currently, there are excellent employment opportunities in the food industry with a shortage of appropriately qualified graduates. The Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition, Food & Business Management seeks to fill this gap. Salaries for graduate Food Technician/NPD roles range between €23-40,000 and the salary for graduates progressing to Food Product Development Manager roles in Ireland range between €45-90,000 (not including car, bonuses, pension and health insurance, etc.). Top salaries are dependent on qualifications and experience. Further information on these programmes is available on the following link http://www.stangelas.nuigalway.ie/departments/index_per_dept.php?dept=Programmes

St Angela’s College student receives prestigious award The Department of Nursing, Health Sciences & Disability Studies at St. Angela’s College, Sligo is delighted to announce that Breanne Farrell, BNSc General student, who graduated in October 2018, is the winner of the prestigious NUI DR HH STEWART medical scholarship in Nursing (1st prize). Breanne was presented with her award at the annual NUI Awards Ceremony held in the Round Room at the Mansion House on Tuesday, 13th of November 2018 where the Chancellor of the University, Dr. Maurice Manning, presented awards to over 130 students and graduates.

These awards celebrate and support outstanding scholars at every stage of their academic studies. Ursula Gilrane, Lecturer and Programme Director at St. Angela’s College attended the ceremony. Breanne was also recently highly commended in the International Undergraduate Awards for her literature review entitled ‘The Impact of Telehealth on Glycaemic Control and Well-Being of Patients with Type Two Diabetes’. The project was supervised by Ms. Lisa Winters, Lecturer in the Department of Nursing, Health Sciences & Disability Studies at St. Angela’s College, Sligo.

Pictured (left to right) are Dr. Maurice Manning, Chancellor, NUI; Ms. Breanne Farrell, award recipient; Ms. Ursula Gilraine, Lecturer, St. Angela’s College, Sligo; Dr. Attracta Halpin, Registrar, NUI.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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Children in infantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; classes at Gaelscoil de hĂ?de enjoying play time (Aistear).

County Hurling Winning team. Sport plays a big part at the Gaelscoil

Gaelscoil de hĂ?de students enjoy music.

Maidin oscailte ag Gaelscoil de hĂ?de Open morning at Gaelscoil de hĂ?de Gaelscoil de hĂ?de, the only Gaelscoil in the county, is holding an open morning on Saturday, January 26th from 11 am to 1 pm. Parents and children interested in enrolling in the school for September 2019 or 2020 are welcome to attend and learn what the Gaelscoil offers. The open morning provides an ideal opportunity to explore the school and its facilities first-hand and to meet the principal and other members of the school community, and includes a formal address at 11.30 am. Located at Cruby Hill, Galway Road, Roscommon town, Gaelscoil de hĂ?de was founded in 2000 and it operates under

the rules and regulations of the Department of Education and Science. It is a Catholic school. Irish is the medium of teaching in the school and it is also the means of communication between the teachers, children and Board of Management. The ethos of the school is to create a learning environment where the uniqueness of each child is nurtured. Gaelscoil de hĂ?de offers * A mixed school with boys and girls being taught together from junior infants to sixth class * Supervision in the school yard from 8.30 am every morning

STEM is enjoyed by children in all classes.

* An afterschool homework club supervised by school staff * All mainstream subjects including German * Interactive whiteboards in all the classrooms and a fully equipped computer room and tablets * Three buses serving the school * Collection from school to several childminding facilities * Sport * Debating and quizzes * Music * A large number of afterschool activities e.g. sport, golf, art and crafts instrumental music and coding

in preparation for the Credit Union Quiz and our debating team is preparing for the Primary Debating competition. The Gaelscoilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green Schools Committee is meeting regularly and

working hard toward their 8th Green Flag on the theme of Marine Environment. The school is also preparing for the Digital Schools Award. We have links with several sports bodies and their

representatives visit the school on a weekly basis to help us in the implementation of our sports curriculum. Gaelscoil de hĂ?de would like to welcome you along to our open morning on

January 26th to hear about the school and consider for yourself if it suits your needs. Email eolasgaelscoildehide@ gmail.com or phone Orla at 090-6628860 for further information.

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Life is very busy in the school and the children are exposed to a very wide range of activities. The Gaelscoil staged a concert before Christmas. All the children were given a chance to perform on stage. Middle classes are currently preparing to take part in Coirm Gael Linn, FĂŠile Ceoil na Scoileanna and FĂŠile Scoil dramaĂochta 2019. Our senior classes are enjoying their German classes as well as preparing to exhibit a project at the RDS Primary Science Fair in Dublin. They are also busy preparing to take part in the Peace Proms Concert in the RDS at the start of February. Earlier in the year, children from a variety of classes enjoyed success at the ScĂłr na bPĂĄistĂ competition. Our U-11 and U-13 quiz teams are currently

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Tablets and interactive whiteboards are available to all students.

More Information: PrĂomhoide: Orla NĂ ChuinneagĂĄin FĂłn: 090 66 28860 www.gaelscoildehide.ie eolasgaelscoildehide@gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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Roscommon County Council announces funding opportunities for Artists This month sees the first of the open calls for artists for funding for 2019 from the arts office in Roscommon County Council. The annual Artist Bursaries programme has re-opened, along with the opportunity to apply for the much-coveted Tyrone Guthrie Centre Residency bursaries. Both bursary programmes are aimed at professional artists either currently living in the county or who were born here. “The bursary programmes provide valuable financial support to Roscommon artists working in all disciplines. The criteria for what the artist bursary awards can be used for are deliberately broad as we recognise that the types of supports

artist need can be very different” Majella Hunt, Director of Services for Community and Enterprise at Roscommon County Council told us. “In 2018, 21 artists received financial support via the artist bursary scheme and we anticipate supporting a similar number of artists this year. Three Tyrone Guthrie Centre Residency Awards were also made last year and again we hope to offer a similar number this year”. The Artist Bursary Awards provide financial support to professional artists to allow them to develop their practice. The award can be used towards the costs of attending courses, mentoring, developing new work, participation in exhibi-

tions and various other activities. Applications are assessed by an external selector and awards made on their recommendation. The Tyrone Guthrie Centre Residency Awards provide opportunities for artists to spend a period of time at the world renowned artists retreat in Annaghmakerrig, Co. Monaghan. The residential workplace for artists is dedicated to supporting and facilitating creativity within a home-like environment. Here, artists can find peace and quiet to develop their work, together with the stimulation of living alongside other artists from all disciplines, enabling a rich cross-fertilisation of ideas.

The closing date for submissions is Friday, 15th of February 2019 at 5 pm. Further information, together with application forms, can now be downloaded from: Roscommon County Council’s website: roscommoncoco.ie – the Arts Office Page. Enquiries can also be sent via email to: bursaries@roscommoncoco.ie These two bursary programmes are the first of the 2019 announcements, with the Artists in Schools call-out and the New Roscommon Writing and Chapbook bursaries also to be announced later this spring as part of Roscommon County Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting artists.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Artists Bursary Programme 2019 TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

Roscommon County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to close the road referred to hereunder for the period and the reason specified.

Road to be closed: The L1026-28 at Knockarush Townland will be closed between its junction with the N61 and the L1023-16

Road to be closed: The L5559-38 at Pollboy Townland will be closed between its junction with the L1207-0 and the L5559-58.

Alternative Routes: Traffic will be diverted from the L1026-28onto the L1023-16 to its junction with the R361 then turning right on to the R361 to its junction with the N61 then turning right on to the N61 to its junction with the L1026-28 and vice versa.

Alternative Routes: Traffic will be diverted from the L5559-38 on to the L1207-0 to its junction with the N5 then turning left on to the N5 on to the L1202-0 to its junction with the L5530-0 then turning left on to the L5530-0 to its junction with the L5559-58 then turning left on to the L5559-58 and then on to the L5559-38 and vice versa.

Period of Closure: The 4th February 2019 to the 25th March 2019 inclusive. Works will take place from 00:00 to 23:59.

Period of Closure: The 4th February 2019 to the 15th March 2019 inclusive. Works will take place from (08:00) to (18:00).

Reason for Road Closure: Laying of water mains along the public road as part of the Boyle Water Supply Scheme Extension to Grangemore Water Supply Scheme Contract.

Reason for Road Closure: Laying of water mains along the public road as part of the Brusna Group Water Scheme Upgrade Contract.

All necessary approach signage and diversion signage will be used at the required locations as per Traffic Management Plan.

Residents will be contacted and notified directly by the Contractor in advance of the closure. Closures will be phased to ensure minimum disruption to locals. Maps showing proposed closure/diversions are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie

Objections may be made in writing to the undersigned in respect of the proposed temporary road closure to arrive not later than 12pm on Monday 21st January, 2019.

Martin Lydon, Director of Services, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae Roscommon. F42 VR98 (14-01-2019)

Martin Lydon Director of Services Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98 (14-01-2019)

Roscommon County Council Arts Office is now accepting applications for two of its Artists Bursary Schemes for 2019. The bursaries provide financial assistance towards the professional development of artists under the following strands:

1 Artist Bursaries 2 Tyrone Guthrie Centre Residential Bursaries

Artist Bursaries This bursary is for Practising Artists, living in Roscommon or who are from Roscommon, to enable them to pursue their practice and to develop within their chosen discipline. Among such purposes, the scheme may be used to offset the expenses of the following: • Participation in ad-hoc education such as mentoring, research or short-term courses. • Development of new work for exhibition, publication or presentation. • Participation in conventional part-time or full-time education where other sources of public funding are unavailable. • Contribute to the removal of existing barriers to an artist’s development.

Tyrone Guthrie Residency Bursaries The Tyrone Guthrie Residency Bursary covers the costs of artists wishing to embark on a residency at the world renowned Tyrone Guthrie Residential Centre at Annaghmakerrig, Newbliss, Co. Monaghan. Further details and application forms are available on: http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/ Services/Community/Arts_Office/grants-and-bursaries.html Enquiries: Breata Coyle, Tel: 090-66-37235 or email: bursaries@roscommoncoco.ie The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 5pm, Friday 15th February 2019. Late applications will not be considered.

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

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople Pictured at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition

James Beatty from Castlerea Community School, Roscommon and his project ‘Why are we not wearing protective head gear in sports?’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2019 in the RDS Dublin. Photo: Johnny Bambury/Fennell Photography

Ruth Murphy, Legal Director, BT presents the Social and Behavioural Category Intermediate Individual 2nd place award to Jamie Finnegan, C.B.S. Roscommon for his project ‘Are students from national schools with autism centres more empathetic to students with ASD?’ Photo: Chris Bellew/Fennell Photography 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Why rally was a bridge too far… B

reaking news: Rooskey, as a

community, doesn’t do racism. The village was cosmopolitan and multicultural several decades ago, at a time when most of the rest of the country hadn’t even heard of those words! Different nationalities in Rooskey is nothing new – and I’m not just referring to holiday-makers on cruisers on the Shannon and to anglers doing their thing on the riverbank. Since as far back as the 1960s, people from England, Germany, The Netherlands, etc. have been setting up home in the area. Yes, I am well aware that the potential arrival of 80 refugees is a different eh… ‘kettle of fish’ – but you can be opposed to an asylum centre being located in your village (as I am) for all sorts of reasons. In actual fact, should this project go ahead, I expect even opponents of what is a very dubious proposal to still very much welcome the asylum seekers, who, after all, are not to blame for what is a chronically flawed policy. The fact that the Rooskey community doesn’t do racism was probably one of the reasons why locals completely (well, a tiny handful of people aside) ignored Sunday’s antiracism rally. When I arrived at the village on Sunday morning, I immediately

saw that large crowds of locals had gathered…for Mass. There was lots of activity outside the local Church. But the locals weren’t then travelling down the village, to where the anti-racism rally was being held (in response to the alleged arson attack on the Shannon Key West Hotel, which has been earmarked as an accommodation centre for asylum seekers). There was no traffic jam or congestion at the bridge. It was quickly apparent that Sunday’s rally was being snubbed by locals. The people of Rooskey felt no affinity with this event. The reason the people of Rooskey didn’t attend the rally is not because they aren’t against racism…it’s because they’re against the notion that there is a racism issue in their community. Locals clearly felt that, by attending the rally, they would be legitimising the ‘racist narrative’ in this saga. The Rooskey community’s unspoken message seemed to be: There is no racism to express opposition to. So, to a man and woman, they stayed away. That said, the rally was (not unreasonably) deemed a success by organisers. By 12.30, there were 50 or so people gathered on the water’s edge, opposite the two landmark

“

A few Roscommon and Leitrim ﬂags ﬂuttered side by side. One man held an umbrella from ‘The World Meeting of Families’. There was no need; the sun had come out. Two Gardai stood under a Guinness sign outside The Weir Lodge

pubs, Reynolds’ and The Weir Lodge. There was a further dozen or so media personnel there. A woman in a Leitrim jersey was playing the guitar, and campaigners from various groups were chanting ‘One race, the human race’. The atmosphere was good-humoured. There was a discreet Garda presence – four squad cars by my estimation. A handful of curious onlookers stood on the bridge, but did not join in. One of the few cars that passed hooted its horn. In the background, the hotel and its uncertain future loomed large. As Leah Doherty introduced speaker after speaker, the message remained consistent: the organisers were not associating the people of Rooskey with racism, but were accusing ‘Alt-right’ elements, fascists and online ‘haters’ of stirring up feelings. There were calls for asylum seekers to be welcomed to Ireland and for direct provision to be ended by the Government. The crowd grew to perhaps 80 or so. Many of those present cheerfully held placards. ‘End homelessness’. ‘Direct Provision makes us monsters’. ‘Direct Provision is a prison’. A few Roscommon and Leitrim flags fluttered side by side. One man held an umbrella from ‘The World Meeting of Families’. There was no need; the sun had come out. Two Gardai

stood under a Guinness sign outside The Weir Lodge. Just up the road, the hotel remains cordoned off. Rooskey’s past shadowed its tense present. The speeches were delivered below an old Bus Éireann sign, under which a notice still advertises the now defunct bus routes. Across the road, a Foster & Allen concert is advertised. The absence of locals from the village was impossible to ignore. The attendance was almost entirely made up of activists from various groups, though organisers were anxious to point out that most of these people live in the general Roscommon/ Leitrim area. The organisers were complimentary about villagers, emphasising that they consider Rooskey to be a welcoming area. Their ire was directed anywhere but Rooskey. When it ended, just after 1.30 pm, there was a quick photo outside the hotel. Then those present were invited to Dromod for refreshments, presumably because you can’t get refreshments in Rooskey just now. Me? I took a walk back to the scene of the rally at around 3 o’clock. The two pubs were still closed, the hotel was still cordoned off, the waters were calm and the sign that no longer stops any bus was still standing, an unintentionally provocative reminder of better times.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople

Drop in jobless total The number of people signing on the Live Register in County Roscommon has dropped by 16% in the last year. Welcoming the news, Senator Frank Feighan said this amounts to around 420 people who are “back making a living, to the benefit of

themselves, their families and the local communities in which they live”. He added: “Since Fine Gael’s Action Plan for Jobs was launched in February 2012, the county’s Live Register has decreased locally by 46.4%.

“This good news for Roscommon comes as the CSO revealed that the Live Register has fallen below 200,000 nationally, the lowest since 2008. This figure represents a year on year decrease of 15.5%. Ireland is a stable, competitive, secure economy that is open for business”.

Western Alzheimer’s 10k Run/Walk

Superb Clearance Sale – 40% Discount Starting this Friday 18th January 2019 – 40% off all existing shop stock

Plaster Centrepieces, Wall Plaques and Plaster embellishments But Hurry! Hurry! Hurry! – when stocks are gone, they’re gone! So don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your home or premises with beautiful handscrafted Plaster Moulding from

O’GRADY’S, THE CORNICE SHOP Lanesboro St., Roscommon town. Tel 090 6625451; Mob.: Kathleen 087 6590767 Open: Monday to Firday, 10am to 6pm: Open Saturdays 11am - 4pm. Follow us on

Pics: Mick McCormack

Lanesborough Primary School LANESBORO, CO. LONGFORD

ENROLMENT AFTERNOON Friday, 1st February, at 1pm We invite you to our enrolment afternoon as we are now enrolling for September 2019. All are welcome. Rachel Nally and Claire McNeill pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

Conor Fleming and Aoife Connolly from Gaelscoil de hÍde entertaining the runners before the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

Tegan and Davóg Kelly, members of Castlerea Brass & Reed Band, pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

For further information contact the Principal at 0433321545 Email: smgslb.ias@eircom.net website: www.lanesboroughprimaryschool.ie

Connect & Discover

Could your organisation beneﬁt from a management consultancy project? John Cunningham and Sean T. Kelly pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day. Louise Finneran and Patricia Finneran with Finn pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/ walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

Dee Mulhern, Linda Madden and Mary Coyle pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

AIT is currently seeking organisations, including small- and medium-sized enterprises that would like to avail of management consultancy offered through our Executive MBA programme. This project commences in Jan 2019 and is offered at no cost. The project undertaken by the MBA students will consist of: • Strategic and operational analysis • A presentation to senior management • A management consultancy report

Roisín Donnelly and Chloe Kilmartin pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day. Daniel and John Fitzmaurice and Mattie Ward pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/ walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

Andy, Sean, Maria and Luke Mitchell pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

If you believe your organisation would benefit from management consultancy, please contact: Dr. Teresa O’Hara, MBA Course Director Athlone Institute of Technology Phone: 085 8714357 Email: tohara@ait.ie

Athlone Institute of Technology

Conor Fleming and Aoife Connolly from Gaelscoil de hÍde entertaining the runners before the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

Participants pictured at the Western Alzheimer’s 10k run/walk in Roscommon town on St. Stephen’s Day.

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

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople All eyes on the Rossiesâ&#x20AC;¦a new season begins

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople

Staff at County Photos. The company recently expanded its offices in Roscommon in order to facilitate its rapid growht and accommodate its 20-strong staff.

County Photos’ rapid development nationwide! County Photos has come a long way since Seán and Anne Collins established the business in a shed at the back of their house in Strokestown back in 1979. Now the leading schools photography business in Ireland, the company recently expanded its offices in Roscommon town in order to facilitate its rapid growth and accommodate its 20-strong staff. Seán now runs the business with his sons, Emmet and Daragh, while Anne is also still very much involved. Seán says County Photos has gone from strength to strength since opening its county town office in 2009. “The company has come from humble beginnings to now employing 20 staff in our new revamped offices. “The expansion of the offices here was vital due to the success and growth of the company over the last number of years,” he said. Emmet Collins believes the firm’s growth is due to its forward thinking in the niche market of school photography. “This is very much a local success story and the business is now the leading schools photography company in the country, catering for primary schools, secondary schools, preschools and childcare facilities nationwide. “As well as trebling our office space here, we have invested substantially in new printing machinery

Want a role with a market leading Company that values and rewards their employees? Due to the continued expansion of our business, County Photos have an excellent opportunity for the right individual in our Northern Territory. The area covers Meath, Louth, Cavan, Monaghan, Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal and Northern Ireland.

and the very latest photo editing software. “We will also be expanding our services into the northern part of the country including Northern Ireland in the very near future. “The class photograph is a school tradition and we have developed our services over time and now we produce special-

ty products from large prints to keyrings and everything in between,” he said. The team at County Photos offers a huge range of services and maintains full control of their products at every stage of the process from photographer to customer. “We are effectively a mobile studio,” said Seán

“and we’re on the road nationwide”. To find out more about the wide range of services on offer at County Photos, both in Roscommon and nationwide, contact the office at the Racecourse Business Park, Roscommon town on 0906627444, email info@ countyphotos.net or log on to www.countyphotos.ie

Responsibilities to include: • Negotiate and promote our service in pre, primary and post primary schools in your territory. • Maximize existing customer portfolios whilst developing new customer accounts across your territory • Plan and carry out day to day sales activities including appointment scheduling with School Principals, Boards of Management and Parents Associations. • Plan and log all secured appointments for photographer via County Photos app, including updating and managing diary in line with company requirements • Complete all relevant internal documentation to ensure compliance • Collect and deliver orders while maintaining a presence in customer base as the face of County Photos. • Conduct ongoing market research and keep up-to-date with products and competitors • Report to management on a weekly basis • Achieve sales targets as set by company management Experience & Core Attributes: • We are looking for a focused and driven Sales Professional with a strong drive for results • At least 3 years field sales or business development experience • Strong administration, planning and time management skills • Excellent presentation skills • Experience selling to Educational sector an advantage • Full clean driving license • Proficient in use of MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint etc • Garda clearance certification We offer: • Competitive renumeration package • Uncapped commission • A market leading service to work with • The opportunity to make a mark on your territory • Vehicle & fuelcard • Laptop and mobile phone

If this sounds like you, and you’d be interested in a confidential discussion about this role and why you’d be suited for it, get in touch with Emmet by mail at Emmet@countyphotos.ie

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertorial -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dream Wedding Package at the Abbey Hotel Announcing the Dream Wedding Package Offer at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon for only €45 – available for select midweek and off-peak dates remaining in 2019. (For full Package details contact Julie on 090-6626240 or email weddings@abbeyhotel.ie The Abbey’s Gift To You when you book the Abbey Dream Package includes a Complimentary Bag Piper welcome at the hotel on arrival, Fairy lit Top Table Backdrop and Decorative Top Table Trellis, Complimentary First Dance Lesson with a Professional Dancer, Discounted Wedding Room Rates for your guests, a Complimentary Display Cake (4-tier for day use only), the Abbey Candy Cart & Complimentary Room Hire for your Civil/ Humanist Ceremony in our Luxurious Fortfield Suite, all for only €45 per person. (T&C). This offer is strictly for new bookings on select *Off Peak and *Midweek dates in 2019. Offer ends 1st April.

on prizes in our Abbey Hotel Roscomm way January Wedding Givea arrival of the Bride and Groom

for the gs before 31st All *New Wedding Bookin at the Venue e Fre our in d ere ent 4 TIER ABBEY be January ’19 will • FREE BESPOKE DESIGNED C (T& ing ow foll ONLY CAKE) Y PLA (DIS E CAK Draw to win one of the ING WEDD a Selection e vid pro will apply) • The Abbey Hotel elia Bridal Sligo tage • €200 voucher from Lam tage Lanterns and our Vin Vin of of free n Pla le Tab r (off a Wedding Dress only) you for Mirror THING TUL• A New Suit from GUY CLO charge. ce Lessons LAMORE • Complimentary First Dan ter (Pe s Pop e’s Pet cer Dan al ion fess • A Wedding Cake from with a Pro 26240 email Manvelle Cake Designer) Enquires to Julie on 090-66 register ng ddi We nity Infi to from ie r tel. yho bbe @a • A €250 vouche ngs ddi we w. dra our for ails Services det r you ddings Couture • A €250 voucher from We dy Cravers • A €200 voucher from Can (Sweets & Donut Table) Manual • A Complimentary Pamper ent from atm Tre ge Lymphatic Draina ist Roisin Art Up ke Ma ity ebr Cel RTE and her mum Derrane for a Bride to Be y wa Gal at Roisin’s Salon in quets from Bou al Brid ary ent plim • 2 Com E LON ATH T RIS FLO BE FLORAL ER welcome • A Complimentary BAG PIP

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were Tom and Geraldine Grealy (Abbey Hotel).

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were Geraldine Grealy (marketing and public relations manager, Abbey Hotel), Alison Crean (executive pastry chef ), Paul Kelly and Rita Hagan.

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were Neasa Naughton and Michael Kielty.

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were Carol Duffy and Michael Adams.

Library ﬁnes are no more! With fines abolished in all libraries since January 1st, 2019, Roscommon residents are being encouraged to make a New Year’s Resolution to reconnect with their local library. Library members do not have to pay fines for overdue items and no existing fines will be collected. Any library user who has overdue items can return them now, confident that there will be no fines to pay, and their memberships can be reactivated on the spot so they can begin using their local library straight away. The removal of fines for library users is one of the actions included in the national strategy, ‘Our Public Libraries 2022 – Inspiring, Connecting and Empowering Communities’. The strategy, launched in June 2018, aims to improve access to and increase usage of, the library as a community hub. The five-year plan is a joint initiative of the Department of Rural and Community Development, the County and City Management Association (CCMA) and the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA). Mary Butler, Acting County Librarian, said: “Libraries are an invaluable resource for all in the community and we want to remove any barriers that might prevent people making full use of them. That is why we are eliminating fines and other charges. Libraries are welcoming spaces where all members of the community can access knowledge, ideas and information, and where people can reflect, connect and learn. “Research has shown that people view fines as a barrier to membership and usage of libraries. In addition, fines disproportionately affect those on lower incomes and can create a negative association with library use for children. There is evidence that library services which have removed fines see an increase in usage following their removal and we very much hope that will be reflected now in our Library Services”. Roscommon County Council Library Service has invited everyone to visit a library during January and see for themselves all that is on offer there, completely free.

TOP: Organisers of the recent Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club Tractor and Car Run pictured with the Dockery family, presenting a cheque for €15,181 to Rachel Dooley of Cancer Care West, in memory of the late Paschal Dockery, Strokestown, who was a founding member of the vintage club. The presentation took place in Compton’s Central Bar in Strokestown. Pic: Mary Regan

Vintage Club fundraiser a wonderful success! The Mid Roscommon Vintage Club’s recent fundraising event, the Paschal Dockery Memorial Run, raised €16,900 for Cancer Care West and The Hub in Strokestown. The Mid Roscommon Vintage Club and the Dockery family would like to thank everyone who supported the event. A special word of thanks to local Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy for his contribution and also to The Central Bar in Strokestown for the use of their premises on the night. Well done to all involved! LEFT: Organisers of the recent Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club Tractor and Car Run pictured with the Dockery family, presenting a cheque for €1,722 to Audrey Murphy, The Hub, Strokestown, in memory of the late Paschal Dockery, Strokestown, who was a founding member of the vintage club. The presentation took place in Compton’s Central Bar in Strokestown. Pic: Mary Regan

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople Emergency services pictured at the scene of last Thursday’s suspected arson attack at the Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey. Pics: Mick McCormack

CONDEMNATION FOLLOWING ROOSKEY ARSON ATTACK Paradub expected to press ahead with purchase  DAN DOONER

There has been widespread condemnation following last Thursday night’s suspected arson attack at the Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey, which had been earmarked as an asylum seeker reception centre in recent months. It is believed two people broke into the premises between 7 and 8 pm and attempted to spread flammable liquid in the reception area. A security guard raised the alarm shortly before 8 pm. No-one was injured in the incident. A technical examination was subsequently carried out at the scene and Gardaí have this week renewed their appeal for witnesses. Speaking in Ethiopia last Friday, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar described the incident as “completely unacceptable” and said that hostility to migrants doesn’t represent Ireland. “It’s important that we not be dismissive of people who have concerns about migration. Migration is a good thing, Ireland has benefited enormously from migration, in my

view. Migrants help run our public service, they make our economy stronger, but it does need to be managed,” the Taoiseach said. Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said he was “deeply concerned” following the incident, adding that it was “too early” to say when the hotel would be ready to accept migrants. “The hotel had recently contracted with my department to provide accommodation for 80 asylum seekers who have come to our country to seek protection, many of whom have experienced conflict and trauma and are vulnerable. “The final preparations were being made in the hotel for their arrival. Thankfully, there were no residents in situ when the fire broke out,” he said. Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy slammed the incident but criticised the Government and the Justice Department for what he described as “an extremely poor process of consultation and engagement with the community of Rooskey”. Deputy Murphy added: “The Government’s approach of pushing

refugees and asylum seekers into small towns around rural Ireland is simply not working. Many of these small rural towns are already on their knees and the necessary infrastructure from a transport, educational and health aspect are just not in place and the Government needs to take responsibility for the lack of judgement in relation to this whole approach,” he said. Sinn Féin TD Martin Kenny described the incident as “very alarming” and said that arson attacks, threats or racism had no place in Rooskey. “The direct provision model is not a good model for the taxpayer or the unfortunate refugees seeking asylum. “The decent people of Rooskey and surrounding areas are generous and welcoming people and would not want to be associated with this type of behaviour or racist agenda,” he said. Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice said the entire community of Rooskey condemned the attack but that concerns regarding the use of the hotel had been raised recently.

“Genuine concerns had been highlighted in recent weeks that the area itself and the hotel would not be suitable for those vulnerable people due to a lack of primary services. But one thing needs to be made very clear, the community of Rooskey would never condone last week’s suspected actions,” he said before adding that he hoped the potential investors would “push ahead” with their plans for a hotel. Fine Gael Senator Frank Feighan said he would work with stakeholders to ensure “the best outcome” for the future of the building and praised the quick actions of the emergency services. It is believed that no permanent damage was done to the hotel and a source this week confirmed that the incident will not deter prospective new owners of the hotel, Paradub Ltd., in their efforts to finalise their purchase of the premises as soon as possible. Investigations are ongoing and anyone with information regarding the fire on Thursday, January 10th is asked to contact Carrick-on-Shannon Garda Station on 071-9650510.

‘Rooskey doesn’t need a rally to prove it’s not racist’ Asked why he believed there wasn’t a larger turnout of local people at last Sunday’s anti-racism demonstration in Rooskey, businessman and Fine Gael Local Area Representative, Andrew Reynolds, said he believe the people of Rooskey had no case to answer following the recent arson attack on the Shannon Key West Hotel. “I think the reason there wasn’t a larger local presence at last Sunday’s demonstration is because the people of Rooskey wouldn’t have felt the need to prove they weren’t racist. They wouldn’t see the need for an antiracism protest or rally,” he said.

No politicians present Not a single politician attended Sunday’s anti-racism rally in Rooskey, held in the wake of an alleged arson attack on the Shannon Key West Hotel. The premises has been chosen as an accommodation centre for asylum seekers. Speakers at Sunday’s event, who strongly condemned social media criticism of their motives, were anxious to convey an impression that many of those attending the rally were locals. In actual fact, there were no more than a handful of (village) locals present in an attendance of approximately 80-90 people. Leah Doherty, one of the event organisers, said it was “sad” that there were no public representatives present. Other speakers insisted that most of those present were locals and that social media commentary to the effect that campaigners would be “bussed in” from other parts of the country had been exposed as inaccurate. After members of the Green Party, Sinn Fein and People Before Profit addressed the rally, Ms. Doherty asked if there were any politicians present. When there was no response, Ms. Doherty said this was “sad”. A member of the attendance asked if there was any Church representative present, a comment which went unanswered.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople Roscommon People Editor PAUL HEALY, who grew up in Rooskey, reﬂects on a tense saga…and argues that converting the local hotel into an asylum centre would be a retrograde development for the village…

HEADACHE HOTEL “To be honest, I could sit there all day catching nothing and still feel I’ve had my best day ever. There’s just something magical about the old place that leaves me wanting more” – Lancashire (UK) angler, speaking of Rooskey’s relatively recent tourism heyday (as quoted in Paul Healy’s book ‘Nothing About Sheep Stealing’)

The mythical bus service The speakers at Sunday’s anti-racism rally spoke while standing under a useless symbol of bygone days…a Bus Éireann sign which gives the false impression that useful public services are alive and well in Rooskey. One might ask many questions when reflecting on Rooskey’s big issue, one of which might be: If 80 asylum seekers come to be based in Rooskey, just how will they manage to travel without public transport? For starters, they can forget about getting a bus…

‘Nobody knows what’s happening’ This is not a straightforward saga. Just now, the Rooskey issue is all over the place, ‘up in the air’. Many questions,

so few answers. Who set fire to the hotel? Will ‘Paradub’ still buy the hotel? Will the refugee project proceed? Or will a hotel re-emerge? What’s really going on? What next? Of course the ‘R’ word (no, not ‘Rooskey’) is being bandied about. In this emotive debate, there is little heed on nuance. If you aren’t in favour of 80 asylum seekers being effectively abandoned in a hotel in a small village, you’re at risk of being branded with the ‘R’ word. No wonder most people are keeping their heads down and saying little or nothing. Those who are engaging in ‘the debate’ include both moderates and extremists. There are agendas, visible and hidden. There is confusion and suspicion. Modern-day battle/‘debate’ is often waged on social media platforms; in that arena, some of the exchanges are vicious. There are ‘elements’ within society which are using the ‘Rooskey issue’ in order to pursue their ‘bigger picture’ agendas. It ought to be said too that nobody has a monopoly on what’s right or wrong here.

The scene at Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey last Thursday night. Picture: Mick McCormack.

There were great times there, in the ‘80s, ‘90s and into the 21st century.

Two interlinked issues A famous local building’s future is at stake. There is much more at stake too. Maybe the village’s economic future is linked to the fate of this building. It used to be called ‘The Beeches’. That’s when there was a huge old pub/ B&B on the site, more than forty years ago. That name? There were beech trees nearby. Eventually the business there closed and the building fell into ruins. Many years later, a hotel was built there. Boom-time Rooskey (already thriving) just got boomier. That was then.

Phelim O’Neill of Paradub

A bustling hotel…food, drink, music, dancing, a community interacting, good times. Then the recession rattled the hotel…and it was probably the bypass that finished it off. But it was purchased by a Mr. James Kiernan, and suddenly there was hope. And month on month, year on year, we fed off rumours that the hotel’s comeback was imminent. And Rooskey waited, hopes high. But the years went by, and the blinds on those windows never rose. It is fair to say, I think, that two issues are inextricably interlinked: the merits of housing 80 asylum seekers in a rural village, and the separate yet related question of whether or not a once-functioning hotel can be re-opened as part of efforts to revitalise a struggling tourism area.

Not what Rooskey needs? A couple of years ago, the rumours (about asylum seekers being based there) began. Then the rumours seemed to go away. About a year ago, a company called Paradub raised hopes of restoring the dormant premises as a hotel. Then, the news that rocked Rooskey: the Department of Justice was doing a deal, and the Shannon Key West Hotel was earmarked as an asylum centre. The locals had not been consulted with. I’ve observed the ‘debate’. I’ve come to a view. Yes, I am firmly in support of the hotel re-opening as a hotel. No, I am not anti-asylum seeker. I think we should help asylum seekers, many of

‘Refugees and asylum Rally hears calls for end to direct provision  PAUL HEALY

Pictured at last Sunday’s anti-racism rally in Rooskey.

Organisers of Sunday’s anti-racism rally in Rooskey – attended by around 80 people – insisted they do not believe that a suspected arson attack on the hotel in the village was caused by locals. Calling for an end to direct provision, the event organisers hit out at “far-right fascists” who they say are responsible for stirring up hate online. Representatives of a number of groups were present at the rally, with speakers emphasising that they do not believe that the people of Rooskey are racist. The rally, organised by a group called ‘Leitrim and Roscommon United Against Racism’, was

arranged in the wake of a fire at the Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey which Gardai believe was an arson attack. The hotel was recently earmarked for use as a reception centre for asylum seekers. Leah Doherty, one of the event organisers, appealed for people to stop blaming refugees and to instead welcome them into Ireland. She said that asylum seekers should be treated with dignity. Ms. Doherty said that there have been many examples of “casual racism” online in the wake of last Thursday’s fire. She believed that the “Alt-right” was probably responsible for the suspected arson attack. Saj Hussain, a businessman in Ballaghaderreen who has worked closely with Syrian refugees in that town, became emotional as he prepared to address the attendance.

“It is a short life, it is a little life, please, please do not waste this life hating each other. We should try to help each other. love each other and look after each other”. Memet Uladag of ‘United Against Racism’ said that any time there is an attack against immigrants in Ireland there is always a (positive) response, a rejection of racism. Ireland, he said, is a shining example in that regard. Accordingly, this was a “victorious event”. Calling on Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan to address direct provision, Mr. Uladag said that “our job is to open Ireland’s borders”. Rooskey, he said, needed young people to come into it and the village also needed new businesses. “It doesn’t matter where they are from… they say we need to look after our own first. Refugees and asylum seekers are

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

NewsPeople whom have suffered horrendously in their native countries. But, on balance, I am opposed to the Shannon Key West Hotel being used as an asylum centre. Why? Because it’s a bad proposal, one that reflects the arrogance of our ‘political masters’. It’s a plan that’s not thought through. The ‘esablishment’ hadn’t the courtesy to consult with locals. And besides, I fear that if the hotel is chosen for this purpose, it may never again function as a tourism amenity. And it’s the latter that Rooskey needs. So I think that locating 80 asylum seekers in the Shannon Key West Hotel would be a retrograde step for Rooskey, in fact a potentially disastrous error. Disastrous, that is, for Rooskey’s already perilous economic outlook. The divisions and tensions this proposal is creating could have been minimised. Much of the blame for this mess lies squarely at the feet of recent governments, which in my view have done little more than pay lip service to the refugees’ issue, while being utterly apathetic about the decline of once-great villages like Rooskey. Successive governments are hiding behind a failed direct provision policy. Worse, when they are tackled about the choice of venues and the lack of communication, they seek to wriggle free of culpability by saying that property owners are responding to calls for ‘expressions of interest’. Poor Department of Justice! Some cute buck down the country just thrust details of another vacant premises on their desk, and what else could the officials do but sign up? As if, were the political will there, a fairer and more sensible system could not operate. Give us a break!

Flawed policy The one thing direct provision isn’t, is ‘direct’. Our arrogant politicians have unforgivably allowed a direct provision farce to continue, while showing no willingness to fast-track the process. Asylum seekers are left languishing in direct provision centres for months on end – in some cases years – with no proper access to education and health services, and no opportunity at all to enter the workforce. Such centres have not unreasonably been compared to prisons. That scores of people are housed for unacceptably long periods in such close quarters – with hope and opportunity denied – is a damning indictment of our approach. What’s really hard to justify if this pattern of choosing small towns/villages as locations for large groups of asylum seekers, often when there are inadequate facilities, and usually with no proper consultation. It’s no wonder some people believe the Government is dumping the ‘asylum seekers problem’ on rural Ireland. Towns and villages that self-evidently are not

for the Government to concentrate accommodation of asylum seekers in urban areas, where facilities are greater and where integration would be easier. And to process the direct provision system faster. Rural Ireland, Rooskey included, could still play its part. Why not locate a small number of asylum seekers in villages like, and including, Rooskey? Try that, Charlie Flanagan, and then sit back and observe the absence of opposition and the warmth and sincerity of the welcome. But no, Charlie & Co. prefer their sweeping, all-embracing lip service-inspired policy of dumping this ‘problem’ en masse on tiny rural areas.

Meanwhile, back to tourism…

The scene at Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey last Thursday night. Picture: Mick McCormack.

equipped to cope with an influx of 80 or so asylum seekers ‘in one go’ are still selected to do so. Invariably, there is little or no communication with the community. There is no regard for the blindingly obvious fact that endeavouring to subsume a large number of people into a small area in one fell swoop is daft, unfair and pretty much unworkable. Unfair on whom? On the host town/village, and on the asylum seekers. In the case of Rooskey, the 80 new villagers will be joining a community which is already shorn of vital services. That bus sign is now bogus; there is no bus service. The school and medical services cannot suddenly expand to meet the new needs. Sporting/leisure facilities cannot miraculously increase. Rooskey is not equipped for this. It can perhaps be ‘made’ work, but it’s been a shoddy process. It’s a Government, a system, being unfair to rural Ireland, creating challenges in a village that has been crying out for some positive economic support.

Cultural differences Personally, I think we should 100% embrace new

cultures. I totally, 100%, agree that new cultures can enhance our society. But is it fair on a small Irish village, or on the arriving asylum seekers, to merge different cultures so swiftly, and on such a scale? Rooskey has always welcomed foreign nationalities. These are not idle words. It’s fact. People from numerous countries have made Rooskey their home, and they are as local now as any home-grown locals. But is it not asking a lot of a small community to absorb 80 people with a different cultural background, many of whom presumably won’t be fluent in English, into its community in one step – without any proper consultation or preparation?

Calling all cities… So yes, I think locating 80 asylum seekers in a small rural village is unfair and wrong. I say that with the interests of both small villages and asylum seekers at heart. The real story here is the brazenness of the political elite. Why is this happening in the way that it is? The alternative (and logical) approach would be

It was The Beeches, it was a hotel, it became vacant, then this. Can the past be revisited? I believe that choosing the building for asylum seekers at the expense of the prospect of it returning as a hotel risks setting the development of the village back many years. ‘Paradub’ has said its intention is to proceed with purchasing the hotel and that the company wants to open it as a hotel. Rooskey is a tourism village, always has been. It’s a haven on the Shannon! Tourist-related facilities are what’s needed. Shannon-based development is what’s needed. An ambitious project, such as restoration of the hotel, is urgently needed in a village that has been depressed by several setbacks over the past couple of decades. If the hotel becomes an asylum accommodation centre there may be no turning back. This may be a turning point in the history of this great village.

What happens next? If the asylum seekers’ project proceeds, I confidently predict that the refugees will get a very friendly welcome, as in Ballaghaderreen. Generosity of spirit will kick in, the hand of friendship will be extended. I don’t for a moment agree with people who in some way fear immigration. That is not what this is about. This is about a flawed direct provision policy, and about the linked apathy of the political establishment in regard to rural villages like Rooskey. Direct provision? Direct derision. And this is about Rooskey’s potential shining asset – the hotel – being used for a purpose that is not compatible with what a struggling area needs. Rooskey needs to be developed, not treated with disdain. Rooskey has been fighting back…since the factory fire, the bypass, the decline of the fishing, and the recession. It’s a fantastic village, a brilliant community. I don’t believe that this project, on this scale and in this ill-prepared way, is the right fit for the village now.

seekers are our own’ our own. We are not here to take your hospital beds, we are here to work in your hospitals. We want to make your culture ours…and enrich it”. Mr. Uladag said that if the mooted arrival of asylum seekers into Rooskey is being opposed due to lack of services in the area, then such deficiencies should be addressed. If more GPs or teachers are needed, they should be put in place, he said. John Lannon, who pointed out that he is a Rooskey native, said that he was dismayed at the “factions” who had attacked the hotel. Calling the direct provision system “inhumane”, he said that the people who are “trapped” in this system should not be scapegoated. Mr. Lannon said that Rooskey needs a viable tourism industry, but it was not a case of one

or the other (i.e. tourism versus an asylum reception centre). Calling for the dismantling of direct provision, Mr. Lannon said that the space occupied by “haters and thugs” should be replaced with love, peace and humanity. Another speaker – ‘Izzy’ – said that the event organisers were not accusing locals in Rooskey of racism; on the contrary, her own experience (as “a migrant from Carlow” who moved to Co. Leitrim) is that the area is a tolerant, welcoming and inclusive place. She also rejected online predictions that people would be “bussed in” to attend the rally, stating that “most of us live locally”. Organisers expressed delight at the turnout and ended the rally with chants of ‘One race…the human race’. Pictured at last Sunday’s anti-racism rally in Rooskey. Picture: Mick McCormack.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Business Enterprise Ireland ‘supported creation of 66 new jobs here’

You can be best in the West! Helping returning emigrants to start businesses in West of Ireland

Figures released recently indicate that Enterprise Ireland supported the creation of 66 new jobs in County Roscommon last year. Fine Gael Senators Frank Feighan and Maura Hopkins welcomed the figures. Senator Feighan said almost two-thirds of total employment by Enterprise Ireland-backed companies is now outside of Dublin. Senator Hopkins said: “The figures for Enterprise Ireland companies locally are going in the right direction. However, a lot more must be done to support enterprise in this region. I continue to work closely with Enterprise Ireland, the IDA and local communities in order to support the creation of jobs in this region”.

An initiative to help returning emigrants start and develop businesses in Ireland is looking for participants from the West of Ireland to apply before the deadline of Friday, January 25th. The Back for Business entrepreneur mentoring programme runs over six months and there is no charge for those selected to participate. It is funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and was launched before Christmas by Minister of State for the Diaspora and International

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Development Ciarán Cannon. The programme was run on a pilot basis last year to support entrepreneurial activity among those recently returned or planning to return to live and set up business in Ireland. The call is open for applications for the 2019 programme, which will run from February to July 2019. Mayo participant Janet O’Rourke from All Star Heating Ltd., which is based in Claremorris, said she would urge others to apply for the programme.

All Star Heating has a range of heating products from stoves and fireplaces to eco fuel and accessories. Back for Business is specifically designed for recently returned emigrants who have lived abroad for at least a year and have returned in the last three years. Those planning to return in the near future will also be considered. Those interested in learning more can download a brochure and register their interest in receiving an application form from www. backforbusiness.com.

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Funding to help small businesses online Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins has said that new funding has been announced to support small businesses to develop their web presence

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and allow them to trade online. Senator Hopkins stated: “The Trading Online Voucher Scheme is an incredibly important scheme which will support small businesses to develop their ecommerce capabilities through training, advice and grant assistance of up to €2,500. “In 2018, right across Roscommon and Galway, 73 businesses availed of these supports. In the context of the current uncertainty around Brexit and the change in

consumer behaviour, it is very important that small retailers are looking towards ecommerce as an avenue for developing and growing their business”. Senator Hopkins concluded: “The face of retail is changing rapidly and we have seen how this has affected footfall in our towns and villages. However, we must support businesses to keep pace with this change and trading online opens up a whole new market of opportunities for businesses”.

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

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WEEKEND PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Far Flung Trio and an evening of musical delights Getting 2019 off to a flying start at Roscommon Arts Centre, the Far Flung Trio Katherine Hunka (violin), Dermot Dunne (accordion), and Malachy Robinson (double bass) will take to the stage on Tuesday, February 5th at 8 pm with an irresistible musical programme that is virtuosic and charming – all delivered in their very own signature style. On the night, hear the seductive melodies of Bizet’s ‘Carmen’, Rossini’s mischievous ‘Barber of Seville’ overture, jazzy tunes by Gershwin, an original work by Irish jazz giant Ronan Guilfoyle and lots more, all tailored by the Trio and delivered with panache and delight.

Leader of the Irish Chamber Orchestra violinist Katherine Hunka and accordion player Dermot Dunne have been playing together since 2007 and were delighted to be joined by Ireland’s most sought after and versatile double bassist Malachy Robinson in 2014. The trio have performed in many venues and festivals and their concerts include everything from Baroque to Piazzolla, South American, Klezmer music and film classics. Their performances are packed with musical gems and are always very much enjoyed by their captivated audiences. Tickets are on sale now from Roscommon Arts Centre’s box office at 090-6625824 and from www.roscommonartscentre.ie.

St. Dominic’s GAA Club won the Rince Foirne in the Connacht finals of Scór na nÓg Chonnacht 2019 held in the Townhall Theatre, Claremorris last weekend. Pictured front from left: Laoise Mahon, Aine Cassidy, Emma Connaughton and Roisín Kenny. Back from left: Iona Hanley, Ciara Roddy, Molly Anne Feeley, Anna Campbell and Niamh Fitzgerald with Séan Ó Murchú, Cathaoirleach (left) and Tomás Muirí, Rúnaí Coiste Scór Chonnacht (right). Pic: Michael Donnelly

St. Dominic’s GAA Club won the Léiriú section in the Connacht finals of Scór na nÓg Chonnacht 2019 held in the Townhall Theatre, Claremorris last weekend. Pictured front from left: Hannah Finan, Michaela Lohan, Michelle Rogers, and Ina Von Opstal. Back from left: Séan Ó Murchú, Cathaoirleach and Tomás Muirí, Rúnaí Coiste Scór Chonnacht (right) with Conor Murphy, Molly Anne Feeley, Karol Feerick and Colm Lyons. Pic: Michael Donnelly

Pictured is Evan Gunn, Elphin, winner of the Recitation competition in the Connacht finals of Scór na nÓg Chonnacht 2019 held in the Townhall Theatre, Claremorris last weekend. Also pictured is Tomás Muirí, Rúnaí (left) and Séan Ó Murchú, Cathaoirleach, Coiste Scór Chonnacht. Pic: Michael Donnelly

Kilglass Gaels, Rooskey were the winners of the Connacht finals of Tráth na gCéist held in Claremorris GAA Club. Pictured from left: Sean Hall, Aoife Tighe, Coman Conroy, Orlaith Tighe and Tristan Hoey. Pic: Michael Donnelly

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

WeekendPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Think of these first weeks after Christmas as a season of “epiphanies”. The liturgy is showing us who Jesus is and what He has revealed about our relationship with God. Last week and the week before, the imagery was royal and filial – Jesus is the newborn king of the Jews who makes us co-heirs of Israel’s promise, beloved children of God. Last week in the liturgy we went to a baptism. This week we’re at a wedding. We’re being shown another dimension of our relationship with God. If we’re sons and daughters of God, it’s because we’ve married into the family. Have you ever wondered why the Bible begins and ends with a wedding – Adam and Eve’s in the garden and the marriage supper of the Lamb (compare Genesis 2:23–24 and Revelation 19:9; 21:9; 22:17)? Throughout the Bible, marriage is the symbol of the covenant relationship God desires with His chosen people. He is the groom, humanity His beloved and sought-after bride. We see this reflected beautifully in today’s First Reading. When Israel breaks the covenant, she is compared to an unfaithful spouse (see Jeremiah 2:20–36; 3:1–13). But God promises to take her back, to “espouse” her to Him forever in an everlasting covenant (see Hosea 2:18–22). That’s why in today’s Gospel Jesus performs His first public “sign” at a wedding feast. Jesus is the divine bridegroom (see John 3:29), calling us to His royal wedding feast (see Matthew 22:1–14). By His New Covenant, He will become “one flesh” with all humanity in the Church (see Ephesians 5:21–33). By our baptism, each of us has been betrothed to Christ as a bride to a husband (see 2 Corinthians 11:2). The new wine that Jesus pours out at today’s feast is the gift of the Holy Spirit given to His bride and body, as today’s Epistle says. This is the “salvation” announced to the “families of nations” in today’s Psalm. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. Egan & O. Fahy, 2nd: B. Wrafter & J. McGrath, Gross: M. Kearns & B. Ferguson. East/West – 1st: L. & L. Curley, 2nd: T. Murphy & T. Smyth, Gross: K. Dowd & P. O’Shaughnessy. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. & P. Mellett, 2nd: M. Coyle & M. Dermody, Gross: M. & V. Brennan. East/West – 1st: K. Dowd & C. McGrath, 2nd: N. Murtagh & M. Shannon, Gross: L. Curley & P. Cooney. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. Egan & M. Pullinger, 2nd: M. Hickey & G. Spillane, Gross: A. Shine & J. O’Gara. East/West – 1st: K. Dowd & C. Ansboro, 2nd: B. Jordan & S. Hickey, Gross: N. Costello & C. McGrath. Ballymurray Bridge Club North/South – 1st: A. Kilduff & B. Jordan, 2nd: T. McManus & J. O’Gara, Gross: H. Lynn & G. Relihan. East/West – 1st: J. Adamson & C. Browne, 2nd: R. Roughneen & M. Hickey, Gross: M. McDermott & C. Neilan. Kilbride Bridge Club North/South – 1st: E. Dowling & M. Farrell, 2nd: A. Igoe & G. McDermott, 3rd: P. Murray-O’Brien & B. Fallon. East/West – 1st: B. Gillooly & F. Keane, 2nd: L. Hussey & M. Hussey, 3rd: B. & T. Moran.

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S

unique take on life ...

Crimes and coal: Did you hear the news? It’s Saturday afternoon, and while I was quite busy earlier in the day, I am taking time out to read the paper. Three separate items catch my attention. Up in Belfast a fellow attacks his mother-in-law with a hatchet, causing her serious head and face injuries. Only for the handle flew off he would have killed her. Fortunately, he was caught and charged with grevious bodily harm, and was

sentenced to a spell in Her Majesty’s prison. On the same night, a shopkeeper in Clones was the victim of an aggravated burglary, in which he was attacked by two armed robbers, who, having knocked him across a box of oranges (he was a fruit merchant), escaped with what was described as a small sum of money. The merchant was seriously injured, but fortunate that the guards arrived

while the robbery was in progress. Even though the perpetrators escaped, they went without a large sum of money and some expensive jewellery that the merchant had in a safe. The other thing that caught my eye was the price of fuel, in particular the prohibitive cost of coal. A meeting in Dublin was attended by a large crowd, with the people present protesting at a 25% rise in the price. The

She’s one tough lady! Still on Tuesday and the news bulletins are all talking about the big vote taking place in England this evening on the subject of Brexit. While I don’t claim to have much of a clue, it does appear as if Theresa May is not going to secure even the backing of her own party. But even if that happens, it seems she has no intention of resigning as Prime Minister, and I just wondered what type of thick skin do you need to be a politician. For normal, everyday people – no matter what we say –rejection, in any shape or form, is not a very nice thing, but for politicians – at every level – it is just an occupational hazard. Whether or not you agree with them, you must admire their ability to deal with the ups and downs of public life. It must be soul-destroying to top the poll at one point and then lose your seat the next – to go from top dog to also-ran. I suppose the trick is to see it as a rejection of your party rather than of yourself! Many years ago local legend Jackie McGovern used to try to encourage me to go for the Council for his beloved Fine Gael, but I could never see myself in that role. The fact that no-one else other than Jackie approached me probably helped me with my decision not to run, but I genuinely believe that you must be made of special stuff (which I’m not) for that way of life. Whatever happens Theresa May tonight – or in the future – she keeps showing Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May that she is one tough lady.

Time for ‘cop on’ rather than ‘catch and fine’? It’s Tuesday afternoon, back in today’s world, and a familiar theme is annoying me again. It’s the crackdown on speed limits in rural areas…and the difficulty drivers have in obeying them. Firstly let me say that I am totally against speeding. I believe that speed is a very dangerous thing and I’m convinced that ‘high speed’ drivers should be treated very harshly by the lawmakers. What is concerning me is the 50 to 60 kilometre limit areas. I believe there should be a little leeway in those areas. Since I got my penalty points and an €80 fine, I have become very

conscious of the limits, and try to obey them everywhere I go. Yet today, going through Castlecoote, while I dropped down to 50, I found it very hard to stay under it, and had to continually keep an eye on my speedometer to make sure I didn’t creep up a little bit. And to my mind that made me a bigger danger than I already was, as by looking at the clock I wasn’t looking at the road, and so I wasn’t giving my full attention to my driving. I just felt if there was a small bit of leeway or old style copon, rather than a rigid ‘catch and fine’ policy, it would have been a lot easier on me – and a lot safer for other road users.

meeting unanimously decided to boycott the previous suppliers and to look for new sources. Now all of these things would appear, on the face of it, to be normal everyday things which are happening all the time, but what makes them different is the fact that I took all of them from the Weekly Freeman dated January 11th 1908. Reading through it, it simply proves that some things never change, and a lot of the stuff is just repeated again and again. The only big difference is the political correctness of the modern era. A lot of the language used back then would have you thrown in jail nowadays. Anyway, I have a full year’s papers to go through, and the truth is it’s great craic, and the most enjoyable read I have had in a long time. I can’t wait to keep reading. I will give you an occasional titbit to keep you up to date with the happenings of the world more than 110 years ago. That is unless someone decides to buy them in the meantime.

And finally…

Finally for this week, on Monday I found myself going on a magical mystery tour of the counties Longford and Westmeath, and I visited places I had either never seen at all or had forgotten about. When the midday hunger pangs set in, we were in the village of Rathowen, and we pulled in for lunch in Feerick’s Hotel. I suppose it was a good sign that the sizeable carpark was full. When we went in, we were pleasantly surprised. A big, friendly man was serving the lunch, and when I said to him that we were starving and not to spare the food, he did exactly what I told him! We both had the beef, which was lovely and tender. It put me to the pin of my collar to finish it, but pride would not let me send any back, and I did it justice by cleaning my plate. I can only say that if you find yourself in that neck of the woods – and you are hungry – call into Feerick’s and you will be well looked after. From the photos on the wall, there must be a Mayo connection somewhere, but I won’t hold that against it. I also think that musical genius Mick Foster is from around there, but there was no sign of him yesterday. However, Mayo or not, give Feerick’s a visit – and tell them I sent you!

Till next week, Bye for now!

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

WeekendPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Pictured at the recent Club Rossie Win a House in Dublin draw in the Hodson Bay Hotel were Nuala Diffley and Diane Dennehy (Club Rossie). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

newsbriefs Monday night music classes with Comhaltas The long-standing traditional music classes, run by Roscommon Town Branch of Comhaltas, continue on Monday nights in the Dr. Hyde Centre from 6.30 pm. Further information is available from Bill Cunningham on 0863345817.

A good call…! Fine Gael Senator Frank Feighan has revealed that a total of 2,295 people living in County Roscommon benefitted from the telephone support allowance (TSA) in 2018 since it was returned by the Fine Gael-led Government. Senator Feighan said: “The TSA was announced during Budget 2018 and has been in effect since June. The TSA amounts to up to €130 a year and is intended to assist with the cost of communications and home security solutions. “People who are in receipt of a Living Alone Allowance (increasing their main DEASP payment) and a Fuel Allowance automatically qualify for the TSA. Approximately 128,000 people nationwide are now in receipt of the weekly TSA payment. The estimated full year cost of the scheme is €16.14 million”.

ROSCOMMON GARDEN CLUB

Roscommon Garden Club says ‘thank you’ Roscommon Garden Club has expressed sincere thanks to all members and friends who came and supported the recent Charity Christmas Gala Night. The club said it was delighted that so many attended and was extremely grateful to everyone for their kindness and consideration. As a result, a very generous donation was presented to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. A statement from the club read: “We would also like to thank Adrian Grealy and his team at the Abbey Hotel for their help and support because without their cooperation we would not have had the great success we did so a big thank you to them all”. The next meeting of Roscommon Garden Club will take place on Monday, January 28th at 8 pm at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon and guest speaker is Deborah Moore from Moore Nurseries & Garden Centre in Ferbane, Co. Offaly. Deborah established Moore Nurseries & Garden Centre in 1994. Her business’ main speciality is summer bedding plants and they grow 90% of their own stock. They supply the local county councils with plants and carry out landscaping. All welcome.

Are we facing a health crisis Armageddon? Up until last week, I’d have considered meningitis to be one of those rare infections you come across. However, the HSE has revealed that 11 cases of this condition, which affects the delicate membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, were reported to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), since the last week of December, resulting in three patients losing their lives. Now, while I hate to catastrophise, these stats clearly indicate a major and worrying spike, leading me to be concerned that, along with a possible Brexit ruination, we’re also set to become victims of some kind of health crisis Armageddon. And so readers, as this is a family-run newspaper with community very much at its heart, (and, as several parents and some senior readers have told me they are somewhat confused regarding the signs and symptoms of meningitis, especially as some can resemble the flu), even though I’m no medical expert, I thought I’d touch upon this emotive subject. But before I go any further, do bear in mind that the best person to address all medical concerns is your local

family doctor; and, if you feel that something is not right with either yourself, your child or any family member, seek his/her advice without delay because the HSE’s data is indicating that different strains of the disease are circulating with all age groups being affected. My own personal encounter with meningitis occurred when, while at work, I got a call from my then 10-month-old granddaughter’s crèche to say her mammy, (my eldest) uncharacteristically hadn’t turned up to collect her and was uncontactable by phone. I dropped everything, and, while myself and hubby rushed across the city to get our granddaughter, my ex-hubby and our youngest went searching for her mother. Long story short; unbeknownst to us, two hours earlier, my eldest had collapsed at work and had been rushed to Beaumont Hospital suffering from what was eventually diagnosed as being viral meningitis. None of her colleagues had thought to ring us when she’d collapsed, (they got a right earful from me, and my daughter later said she was mortified returning to work following her recovery). Under-

standably, as she was unconscious, hospital personnel, quite rightly, were more concerned with saving my child’s life than they were of going through her handbag/phone to find her ‘in case of emergency’ contact, or ICE, which were myself and her dad. Now, while my daughter’s diagnosis struck fear into the very heart of me as we stood outside of her isolation unit speaking with her medical team, I also breathed a huge sigh of relief because I knew that the viral strain of this disease, although very serious, and requiring swift intervention, is, thank God, rarely ever life-threatening, and we are forever grateful she pulled through without suffering any after-affects. We were lucky. I remember praying to every saint I could think of; at one stage going so far as promising my soul to Satan if only he’d allow her to survive. Now, as there is, (and it seems always has been), a health crisis when it comes to our A&E departments, it’s understandable that if a child, an adult or a senior relative is feeling unwell with what appears to be flu-like symptoms, that bed rest with a

hot water bottle and an over-thecounter remedy would likely be the sensible thing to do in order to avoid making things worse by presenting at overcrowded A&Es. However, while it has been reported that the HSE has ‘declined to say what counties are affected on the grounds of patient confidentiality,’ and, as we don’t have an A&E facility in Roscommon, a call to your doctor, even though he/she God love them, are probably inundated at this stage, is absolutely vital. In addition, readers could also contact the charity ACT for Meningitis and speak with a family support officer. Their number is Ph: 091 380058. Or ring the Meningitis Research Foundation whose helpline is Ph: 1800 41 33 44. In the meantime parents, I’d urge you to check your kids’ schedule of vaccinations and make sure they’re up to date. Remember readers, while viral meningitis is rarely life threatening, urgent medical attention is essential. As for bacterial meningitis, well, if untreated, this is almost always fatal, so, if you’re concerned, don’t delay and consult your doctor for professional, medical advice.

Love a woman over 50? Quelle horreur! Well ladies, it seems we’ve been sexually gazumped by a younger, firmer, thinner and more interesting new model, i.e. the under 50 year old nymphet! It’s true. Last week, as if dissecting us mature girlies with a scalpel and holding us aloft like some medical experiment gone horribly wrong; French author and TV presenter Yann Moix publicly declared that women ‘over 50 are too old to love’. And, what has prompted the misogynist monsieur to make this statement? Well, presumably the creepy lothario perceives

our age-related lack of pliability has resulted in our bodies becoming ‘not extraordinary at all’. His words, not mine! Now while I’m no Kendall Jenner, and, at no time in my life have any of my body-parts been as taut as Angelina Jolie’s inner thigh, however, as a woman who falls into the smart-assed chauvinist’s too-old-to-love category, I’d say that, along with every other fabulous mature Roscommon woman, I’m defo not ready to sit in a corner covered in a shawl crocheting doilies just because some homme

horrible who doesn’t even possess the IQ to become a contestant on Big Brother thinks I’m past it! Then again, let’s not be too harsh on Moix, who is, by the way ladies, himself a 51 year old; and assume that, despite the fact he’s balding and his visage resembles an unmade bed, (I mean, he’s hardly a knight in shining Armani now is he mes chers?), that he is, like some egotistical men, experiencing a mid-life crisis. Mind you, I could be wrong, but personally, I don’t think this imbécile has even left puberty yet!

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Caring For Your Loved Ones

Home care: Some considerations… Before deciding on appropriate home care for a loved one there are a number of things to consider including type of care, the amount of assistance and supervision required, making your home older-adult-friendly, and will your family be able to adjust to the change?

Kind of care needed What is the person’s

physical and mental condition and what chronic illness does he or she have? These are the first questions you need to answer. It may be an ideal time to make the move if the person is relatively healthy and able-bodied.

Level of assistance and supervision You must be realistic about what you can and

can’t do while also taking into account that the person’s needs may increase over time. Your loved one may need help dressing, bathing, using the bathroom and other day-to-day tasks. This can be difficult if you’re working full-time or already looking after a young family.

Is your home older-adultfriendly? Is there a bathroom available on the floor the older adult is on? Is it big enough to handle a wheelchair or walker if

necessary? Will everyone have a level of privacy they’re comfortable with? What renovations will be necessary to make your home older-adult-friendly, and how will you pay for it?

Adjusting to the lifestyle changes involved There are a number of changes involved in offering home care for a loved one such as noise levels, meals, etc. Your loved one will need to feel comfortable in their new surroundings so therefore

a collective family effort is required.

Will your elderly relative have a social network? Uprooting your loved one may mean moving them away from friends and an established day-to-day routine. This is difficult at any age but particularly so in later years. An empty house during the day may also lead to added alone time for your elderly relative. Identifying Active Retirement groups and daily activities will be vital in helping with the big move.

Your Home, Your Care, Your Choice

RHS Home Care is Ireland’s only community owned home care co-operative. We have been caring for clients in the community since 1996. We employ over 500 staff locally in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. We are an approved provider for HSE care delivery. All retained income is reinvested in our organisation for continuous improvement which is overseen by our committed voluntary Board of Management who are members of your community. • We operate a unique model that differs from other home care providers. • We believe that caring is a very special talent and we are looking for the right individuals to join our team.

Are you looking for a rewarding career in home care? We urgently need healthcare assistants in all areas of the West of Ireland, Galway, Mayo, Roscommon and Athlone.

Quality Care through Traditional Family Values

Do you require Private Home Care? We also provide a private home care service, please contact us if you want to discuss your care needs. One of the benefits of using RHS Home Care is that we are contactable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for any emergencies that may arise for our clients

We offer flexible working hours, own transport required, training provided, we train carers in QQI level 5 and above. Please forward applications by email to jobs@rhshomecare.ie Alternatively you can call 090 66 25988

www.rhshomecare.ie

Contact RHS Home Care:

090 66 25988

Your Home, Your Care, Your Choice Providing Quality, Affordable, Community Driven Home Care in the West, Midlands & Border Counties for over 20 years

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

WeekendPeople

Hamrock’s

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 19th January:

Steve Reilly

Irish Trad night at Castlecoote Lodge Brighten these dark January nights with an evening of entertainment, music, song, dance and storytelling this Friday night (18th) at Castlecoote Lodge. It’s the third Friday of the month and that

means it’s time for the renowned Irish Trad Night at The Lodge. The Irish Trad Night commences as usual at 10 pm so get there early. New entertainers are always very welcome!

Castlecoote Lodge

Telephone: 090 6626225

BAR AND LOUNGE

Saturday 19th January:

Castlecoote, Roscommon

Blues Confidential

Friday 18th January

IrishTrad Night commencing at 10pm Musicians, Singers, Dancers, Story-Tellers. All welcome

MUSIC, SONG & DANCE! ●

Refreshments ● Music ● Chat

Telephone: 087 6335511

Karol Keane, John Keegan and Padraic Kelly pictured in O’Roarke’s Pub after the Creggs Charity Walk on St. Stephen’s Day.

s e c a l P & s Face Kilglass Gaels Presentation Dinner Dance The Landmark Hotel Sunday 20th January:

Lindsey O’Malley and Ross King pictured at the Kilglass Gaels Presentation Dinner Dance in The Landmark Hotel.

TOBI KAYE 6PM IN THE MIDDLE BAR

Niall Kilcrann, Fern Bygrave and Tom Cox pictured at the Kilglass Gaels Presentation Dinner Dance in The Landmark Hotel.

Noreen Corcoran and President of the GAA, John Horan, have a chat at the Kilglass Gaels Presentation Dinner Dance in The Landmark Hotel.

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

BEER OF THE WEEK! Yellowbelly Pale Ale

Our Citra Pale Ale is brewed with the finest German & Belgian malts, fermented with a super clean American ale yeast and dry hopped to the gills with Citra. The resulting beer should be enjoyed as fresh as possible to appreciate the grapefruit and pine aroma and super clean finish.

JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries i Eabha Dowd and Jenny Flynn pictured at the Creggs Charity Walk on St. Stephen’s Day.

Pictured in Adie Farrell’s in Lanesboro recently were Ollie Farrell and Anne Casey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

WeekendPeople

ARTS CABARET 18 at Murray’s Bar, Knockcroghery ARTS CABARET 18 takes place in Murray’s Bar, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 26th of January 2019, starting at 8 pm. The event includes music, poetry, performance art, reading and song. The line-up is Dympna Molloy, Patrick Anderson Mc-

Quoid, Martin O’Hara (poetry); Declan Coyne and the South Roscommon Singers Circle launch of Interpretations, a vinyl LP of songs and visual art (songs); James Moran, Ian Marks, Frank Carroll (reading); Sáerlaith Molloy, John Murray, Noel Molloy (performance);

Ukephoric ukulele group, Matt Rogers & friends (music). Also, the Faxbox project will take place throughout the night – see www.faxboxart.weebly.com for more information on how to participate. Admission is free and all are welcome.

75th Birthday Celebrations Weekend Friday, 18th - Sunday, 20th January Friday, 18th January Table Quiz In aid of Galway Autism Partnership 10pm. Hot food - Cool Questions - Lots of Fun €10pp

Saturday, 19th January

75th Birthday Party Live Music - Free Food - Drinks Promotion GUINNESS 75c PER PINT (9pm - 10pm Only)

Sunday, 20th January Youth Trad Session With Craobh Tom Morrison from 6pm

Jim Pete’s Pub h 75htday Glenamaddy Birt

Since 1944

Pictured in Rockford’s were Dara Brennan and Molly Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were David McGourty, Siobhan Cunningham, Keith Brady and Davina Hughes. Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were Sinead Keane and Zara Hickey.

s e c a l P & s e c a F

Pics: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were Leanne Swayne and Liam Finneran.

Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were Rachel Groves, Bridget Hodgson, Anne Murray and Sarah Higgins.

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were John Casey and Caroline Doyle.

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel Wedding Fair on Sunday last were Delia Stephenson and Catherine O’Reilly.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

WeekendPeople

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s last weekend were Aoife and Sorcha Hegarty.

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s last weekend were Alan Macgregor and Marie Ralphs. Pictured in JJ Harlow’s last weekend were Anne and Helen Feeney and Celine Bance.

Faces & Places

JJ Harlow’s Pics: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s last weekend were Mark Gilleran and Greg Simpson.

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s last weekend were Charlie Carlos and Michael Earley.

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s last weekend were Gary O’Reilly and Stephen Reynolds.

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s last weekend were Celine, Marie and Brian Bance. Celine was celebrating her 21st birthday.

Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Lee and Mick Connell, Shannon Whitlow, Darren Dunne and Ethan Connell.

Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Alan Horohoe and Michelle Byrne.

Faces & Places Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Greg Glennon and Paddy O’Rourke.

Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Claire Webb and Melissa Farrell.

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s last weekend were Tom and Helena Naughton.

Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar

Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Michael Sorohan and Sinead Hanley.

Pics: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Noel Moran (Chairman), Gerry Trimble, Eamon Bolger (quiz master).

Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Shane Nealon and Chris Webb.

Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Ronan McDermott, Darragh Kelly, Andrew Ward and Sean Casey.

Pictured at the Ballyleague Christmas Lights Committee table quiz in Rosie’s Bar last Friday evening were Luke Kelly and Alan Hanley.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

WeekendPeople

Gradam Ceoil TG4 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Patsy Hanly was pictured with the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council, Eugene Cummins and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, at a civic reception in Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

International Environment Sustainability Project Olympiad (INESPO) winners Ciara MacCarthy and Claire Lémass pictured with the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council, Eugene Cummins and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, at a civic reception at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

International Rose of Tralee Escort of the Year 2018 Paul Clabby was recently honoured at a civic reception hosted by Roscommon County Council. He is pictured with the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council, Eugene Cummins and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Kiltoom-Cam, All-Ireland Community Games Gold Medal winners, were honoured at a civic reception hosted by Roscommon County Council. In picture are: Eabha Brett, Lara Deehan, Bonnie Moylette, Alison Nugent, Róisín O’Donovan, Katie Rowan, Lucy Sheffield, Aoife Walsh, Ciara Walsh and Shauna Walsh, along with the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council, Eugene Cummins and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon Special Olympics team pictured with the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council, Eugene Cummins and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, at a civic reception at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

All-Ireland Scór na nÓg winner for story-telling Katie Heneghan was honoured at a civic reception hosted by Roscommon County Council at Áras an Chontae. Katie is pictured with Eugene Cummins, the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council and Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

At a recent civic reception hosted by Roscommon County Council, Kiltoom-Cam U-12 Talent Group were recognised for their success in Drama/Comedy. In picture are Grace Brosnan, Jan Daly, Anna Rose Henshaw, Olivia Meares, Katie Meeley and Emma Rowan, along with the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council Eugene Cummins, and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

PropertyPeople Auctioneers & Valuers PRSA no. 001090 NO. 1 ABBEY ST., ROSCOMMON. TEL 090 66 27003. FAX 090 66 26296 EMAIL info@pathughesauctioneers.com Web: www.pathughesauctioneers.com

#### URGENTLY REQUIRED #### Due to continued success Hughes & Company are urgently looking for all types of property in and around Roscommon for a number of disappointed underbidders. If you are thinking of buying or selling talk to Pat, let him advise you, his advice is free.

Three-bedroomed bungalow is in showhouse condition! Connaughton Auctioneers are delighted to offer for sale this attractive threebedroomed bungalow on c. 0.5 acres on the outskirts of Ballyleague, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon. The property is in showhouse

condition internally and is ready to move into without any decorative works being required. There are cast-iron gates to the entrance with gravel driveway which extends to the rear and is also kerbed.

The lawns are manicured with laurel hedging to both rear and sides of the property. At the rear there is a large shed/garage (56’ x 23’) sitting on a concrete base with full electrics installed.

Accommodation includes entrance porch, reception hallway with door off to living/dining room with large solid fuel stove which heats hot water and radiators, kitchen at rear overlooking the lawned

3 - 4 Bedroomed Bungalow in Roscommon Town For A Cash Customer Urgently Required Phone: 09066 27003 or e-mail info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

FOR SALE 7 BANK GARDENS, HENRY STREET, ROSCOMMON

An attractive 3 Bedroomed Townhouse. Accommodation consists of Sitting Room, Kitchen cum Dining Room, 3 Bedrooms and a Bathroom. The residence is located a short distance from Roscommon Town centre and close to all local amenities. The Residence is in need of some modernisation. Offers in excess of €110,000 are being considered. For further information or to make an appointment to view contact Pat on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

__________________________________________

NEW TO THE MARKET AT THE SPINNEY, ABBEY TOWN, ROSCOMMON

On the books of Pat Hughes: Ofﬁce space and site with planning for ten apartments in Roscommon town This week Hughes & Company, Abbey Street, Roscommon, are confirming that they have for sale at Church Street, Roscommon an office space located on a corner site. The building is in need of some modernisation. It can be sold with a large store to the rear if required.

A 5 Bedroomed Detached Residence. Accommodation consists of a Sitting Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Downstairs Bedroom, Utility, Toilet with WHB. Upstairs has 4 Bedrooms with one En-Suite and a Bathroom. The Residence is finished to a high standard and situated in one of Roscommon’s most sought - after areas. For further information or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

Hughes & Company also have for sale at Castle Street, Roscommon a site with the benefit of planning permission for ten apartments. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 0906627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers. com

Final offers invited for residence at Galway Road, Roscommon

__________________________________________

FOR SALE BEECHWOOD, KILTEEVAN

circa 10 acres of agricultural land. The lands are located only 3 miles from Roscommon Town on the main Lanesboro to Roscommon Road. The lands have the benefit of frontage onto two roads. This would be an ideal opportunity for someone to acquire a small holding or for local farmers to increase their holding. Pat is accepting every offer in excess of €50,000 for these lands. For further details contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

gardens with rear door access and three bedrooms in all. Bedroom two has double French doors leading to the gardens and has an ensuite bathroom. Main bathroom is off rear hallway which is fully tiled, floor to ceiling. There are many pleasing features to this property including wooden flooring in all bedrooms and hallway, two bathrooms, high standard of tiling, septic tank and mains water. The location is in a much sought after area approximately 2.5km from Lanesboro on the renowned River Shannon and approximately 12km from Roscommon Town and all its amenities. This is an ideal family home and would be a firsttime buyer’s dream. For further information, brochure, pictures and maps, etc. contact the office on 090-6663700 or info@ connaughtonauctioneers.ie Viewings strictly by appointment and can be arranged for evenings, weekends and bank holidays by prior arrangements.

Ard Ri, Galway Road, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon.

David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this offering to the market a quality three-bedroomed terraced-style residence of c. 1,018 sq. ft. for sale at Ard Ri, Galway Road, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon. David describes the property as “a spacious three-bedroomed residence finished to a very high standard throughout located in the established Ard Ri development on the Galway Road. The property boasts spacious living accommodation throughout (over two floors) with a spacious rear garden and unrivalled location beside Roscommon town. “Accommodation comprises of reception/hallway, sitting room/dining room, kitchen, WC and (on first floor) three bedrooms with master ensuite and bathroom”. The auctioneer invites viewings and all offers above €130,000 for immediate sale. For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email ddiffley@ propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

Three-bedroomed townhouse on books of Hughes & Co Auctioneers Hughes & Company are offering for sale a three-bedroomed townhouse which is located at Abbey Street, Roscommon, pictured above. The residence is in need of total modernisation. It is situated in one of Roscommon’s most sought after areas. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 0906627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers. com

28 acres at Roxboro At Roxboro, Roscommon, Hughes & Company have for sale circa 28 acres. The lands are located only two miles from Roscommon Town and can be sold in one or two lots to suit. For further information call 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

PropertyPeople

Final offers invited for Williamstown property

Nestled on a beautiful site with outstanding views over ‘Black’s Lough’ to the rear is this exceptional five-bedroomed dormer bungalow on the outskirts of the Tidy Towns’ award-winning village of Castlecoote. This exciting property is on the books of Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers. ‘Black’s Lough’ is a small lake of approx. 15 acres which is renowned as an excellent fishery for many species such as rudd, pike, roach and some hybrids. This property is in absolute showhouse condition and has had no expense spared on the decorative finishes internally and the immaculate landscaping externally. The entrance hall has solid Scandinavian wood flooring which continues throughout the property on the ground floor and leads into an ample sitting room located to the front of the property. There is a solid fuel wood burning stove and sliding patio door to the side of the house. Moving on into the fully fitted kitchen/dining room you will find (in kitchen) eye level ovens and integrated hob, not forgetting those views to the rear of the property and surrounding countryside. Utility room off, with fully fitted units and door to the rear patio area. There are two large bedrooms on the ground floor, one with ensuite bathroom, and also the main bathroom. On the first floor there are three bedrooms in all and another full-sized bathroom. The many special features include: timber decking patio to rear with astroturf with a large 6-seater American hot tub which is under canopy and has full electrical lighting. The site falls away to the rear of the property down rolling lawns to the rear boundary. There are mature trees at the front boundary with fully tarcadamed driveway which wraps around to the side. There is a large-sized shed to the side (approx. 20’ x 13’) with electric roller door and side entrance. Oil-fired central heating, septic tank and mains water. This property is a must for viewing (strictly by appointment). Contact the office for full details and any additional information on 090-6663700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie (Viewings accommodated at weekends, evenings and bank holidays).

Farms ‘of all sizes’ required Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week advising that they require farms of all sizes in all areas for the forthcoming letting season. John Earley commented: “We have an extensive client base and substantial pre-enquiries for the forthcoming letting season and consequently we require farms of all sizes to meet demand for both short and long term lettings. We offer a free consultation service and we welcome all enquiries”. To avail of a free consultation, please contact one of the professional team at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie, or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

Lands with river frontage for sale At Fearagh, Ballymurray, Roscommon, Hughes & Company of Abbey Street, Roscommon are offering for sale circa 14 acres. The lands are being sold in one lot and have the benefit of river frontage. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

BALLINDRIMLEY CASTEREA CO. ROSCOMMON

NE W M TO AR T KE HE T

in excellent condition throughout and stands on a beautifully mature and spacious site area of approx. 0.44 of an acre. This is a property that must be viewed to be fully appreciated and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers above €135,000 to sell”. For further details, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579, log on to www.propertypartners. ie or email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie.

EXTREMELY ATTRACTIVE 3 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE WITH GARDEN AREA AND GARAGE SET TO REAR A prime residence located on the edge of town at Ballindrimley, close to all amenities. An ideal Residential or investment property due location. Gardens to front and rear, storage shed and garage set to rear. Side driveway servicing. Services: ESB, Mains water, sewerage and O.F.C.H system Legal: Maria McCahill, Messer’s McCahill and Co, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Tel 090 66 26816 The Auctioneer now invites immediate viewings and all offers to sell. Ber E1

CLOONFREE STROKESTOWN CO. ROSCOMMON

NE W M TO AR T KE HE T

Five-bedroomed dormer residence with outstanding ‘Black’s Lough’ views

EARLEY

Ballyroe, Williamstown, Co. Galway.

Price of average Roscommon threebed to rise 5% – REA The price of the average three-bed semi in County Roscommon is expected to rise by 5% in the next 12 months, according to a survey carried out by Real Estate Alliance (REA). Prices in the county rose by 13.2% to €141,500 in 2018 – with a rise of 2.9% between September and December. The REA Average House Price Survey concentrates on the actual sale price of Ireland’s typical stock home, the three-bed semi, giving an upto-date picture of the second-hand property market in towns and cities countrywide. “The last quarter of 2018 was quite good despite the Brexit effect,” said Seamus Carthy of REA Seamus Carthy. “December has been strong for the last three years, and with people moving during the last few weeks of the quarter, last year was no exception. As the

year ended strongly, we expect the first quarter of 2019 to be active. “Roscommon Town is performing quite well and the end of 2018 was strong. The upper end of the market has performed very well. There is a lack of supply and new developments are required”. The average semidetached house nationally now costs €236,287, the Q4 REA Average House Price Survey has found – a rise of 0.6% on the Q3 2018 figure of €234,284. Overall, the average house price across the country rose by 4.6% in 2018 – a decrease on the 5.4% recorded to September and indicating that the market is continuing to steady after an 11.3% overall rise in 2017. Growth in the commuter counties also slowed to 0.38% in the last three months – an annual rise of 4.18% – with the average house now selling for €249,472. This is an annual rise of

€10,000 and growth of €2,000 in the last three months. The country’s major cities outside Dublin recorded the biggest rise of the quarter at 1.25%, an annual increase of 5.81%, with an average three-bed semi costing €252,500. The biggest urban rise was seen in Galway City, where selling prices rose by 2.7% in the quarter to €282,500 – a yearly increase of 9.7%. The highest annual increases (7.7%) were once again seen in the rest of the country’s towns which rose in selling price by an average of €10,000 in 2018 and which experienced a 0.85% rise in Q4 to an average of €157,717. “In these areas, you largely have the perfect storm of affordability within the 10% deposit range, and no new homes as it is still uneconomical to build in many places,” said REA Spokesperson Barry McDonald.

RESIDENCE AND LANDS APPROX 9.8 ACRES For Sale - a fine detached two storey slated residence in need of moderisation of approx 1320 sq ft standing on a gentle elevated site area of approx 1.1 acres with natural hedging on boundaries with the benefit of approx 5 acres of prime lands to the rear of the said residence together with approx 3.7 acres of lands on the opposite side of the road with shed. Can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate. The Entire: €90,000. Residence on approx 1.1 acre Approx 5 acres. Approx 3.7 acres and shed The said property is located in a countryside setting outside Strokestown on the Tulsk Route.

MOHER STROKESTOWN CO. ROSCOMMON

F O IN IN FFE AL VI RS TE D

Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon

David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week inviting final offers for a quality four-bedroomed detached two-storey residence of c. 1,830 sq. ft. located at 1, Ballyroe, Williamstown, Co. Galway. David describes the property as “a primely located and quality detached family residence of approx. 1,830 sq. ft. conveniently located within walking distance of Williamstown and all local amenities. “The residence is presented for sale

PROPERTY PARTNERS

3 ROOMED RESIDENCE A 3 roomed countryside residence located on a peaceful cul de sac roadway close to Strokestown. The said property is comprised in folio RN11199F and stands on a site area of approx. 1.06 acres. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER: Exempt.

OFFERS AFTER €25,000 LANDS FOR LEASE (5 OR 7 YEARS) APPROX 189 ACRES OF LAND With the benefit of dual road frontage set out in one lot located in County Sligo. The auctioneers now invites immediate enquiries.

LANDS TO LET APPROX 7 ACRES OF LAND Located at Killavacken, Curraghroe. Long or short term. The auctioneers now invites immediate enquiries

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie of Professional ipav Institute Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Auctioneer & Valuers Fax: (090) 6625405 PSRA Licence No. 001481

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

FarmingPeople

(Proudly serving farmers for over 59 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Bullocks, Heifers and Dry Cows Tomorrow Friday, 18th January at 11 a.m. ------------------------------------

Weanlings and Suckler Cows Tuesday, 29th January at 5 p.m. --------------------

New Year Special Sale of Bullocks Friday, January 25th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, January 17th

Also Heifers & Dry Cows ------------------------------------

Friday, February 1st at 11 a.m.

Special Spring Sale of Heifers

IFA: Minister Creed needs to prioritise live trade At a meeting between the IFA and main live exporters in Portlaoise, IFA President Joe Healy said the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed must prioritise the live trade in order to achieve a doubling in export numbers in 2019. “A strong live export trade is absolutely essential for price competition in the cattle trade and for providing major market outlets, especially for calves and weanlings,” he said. Mr. Healy said the ex-

porters highlighted a number of key issues for the live trade which must be addressed by Minister Creed and the Department of Agriculture. He added that maximising ferry and lairage capacity is key to meeting the export supply and demand for calves this year. “IFA has made it very clear to Minister Creed that he cannot allow the EU restrict Irish live exports to the EU single market and under no circum-

stances can he accept any reduction in the 29-day period. “Exporters also raised issues regarding access to Turkey and the need to make more progress on our disease status,” he said. IFA National Livestock Chairman Angus Woods said live exports reached 246,000 in 2018, of which 158,000 were calves. Weanlings and stores made up 64,000 head and adult cattle 24,000.

Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed.

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 24th

Also Bullocks & Dry Cows ------------------------------------

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

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Live streaming of sales from Ring 1 See link on our Facebook page or website Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

Find us on facebook

Castlerea Co-operative ve Livestock Mart Ltd.

Pictured at the Teagasc sheep seminar in the Abbey Hotel on Wednesday, January 9th were Frank Hynes (Careers & Job Strategist at Job Changer), Barry McHugh (Kepak), Damien Costello (Sheep Specialist with Teagasc), Brian Daly (Drystock Advisor with Teagasc), Tom Kelleher (Teagasc) and Mike Shields (Nutritionist with Red Mills). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com

Roscommon People MART WATCH Roscommon Mart sample prices

PROPERTY SERVICES PROVIDERS LICENCE NO. 002249

THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

JOHN GREENE

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price guaranteed

BALLINASLOE

Daily collection

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Weanling heifers Char X 400kgs €890 - €2.22 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €700kgs - €2.22 per kilo, Char X 290kgs €700 - €2.41 per kilo, Char X 320kgs €700 €2.18 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €700 - €2.22 per kilo, Lim X 310kgs €750 - €2.42 per kilo.

Weanling bulls Lim 435kgs €1135 - €2.61 per kilo, Lim 425kgs €1080 - €2.54 per kilo, Lim 400kgs

€1055 - €2.64 per kilo, Char 355kgs €925 - €2.61 per kilo, 3 Lim 221kgs €625kgs €2.81 per kilo, Char X 245kgs €700 - €2.86 per kilo.

Finished hoggets 60kgs €126, 52kgs €125, 54kgs €123, 55kgs €121, 49.5kgs €121, 50.7kgs €120, 51.8kgs €120, 50.7kgs €117, 48.4kgs €115.50, 48.9kgs €115, 47.6kgs €114, 44kgs €111.

Manager’s report… Brendan Egan, Castlerea Mart “There were 240 cattle on offer at our first sale of 2019. Younger stock in particular noticed the most improvement in price with strong demand on offer the quality lighter stores. “The bullocks and heifers reported good clearances also while in the weanling rings, even though the numbers presented were small, demand was improved. Our first calves of the season met a very strong trade while the dry cow trade reported a similar trade to pre-Christmas. “Springers made from €710 to €1,300 per head, young calves made from €150 to €370 per head, and runners made from €400 to €745 for the continental lots. “Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday 17th) with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings on offer. Sales commence at 11 am”.

Manager’s report… Maura Quigley, Roscommon Mart “The numbers on offer were small for the first weanling sale of the year, held on Tuesday last. There was a firm trade for all lots with a good clearance. “Weanling heifers averaged from €2.18 per kilo up to €2.42 per kilo. Bull weanlings ranged from €2.53 per kilo up to €2.86 per kilo. “The next sale of weanlings takes place on Tuesday, January 29th at 5 pm. All enquiries to 090-6626352. “There was an increase in numbers on offer at this week’s sheep sale. Prices for finished lambs peaked at €126 for 60kgs. There was a steady trade for cast ewes with prices ranging from €56 up to €130. Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am for lambs and cast ewes. Cast ewes made from €56 to €130 per lot”.

Castlerea Mart sample prices Bullocks Chx 460kgs €1100, Lm 450kgs €1035, Ch 555kgs €1280, Lm 400kgs €895, AA 425kgs €945, AA 560kgs €1145.

Heifers Ch 420kgs €1000, BBx 435kgs €1095, Ch 470kgs €1090, Sim 490kgs €1080, Lm 600kgs €1380, Ch 545kgs €1290.

Dry cows Si 830kgs €1590, BA 820kgs

€1640, BAx 775kgs €1520, BBx 770kgs €1450, Fr 440kgs €440, AAx 455kgs €600.

Weanling bulls Ch 275kgs €775, Lm 265kgs €695, Chx 395kgs €945, Lm 330kgs €795, Lm 255kgs €725.

Weanling heifers Chx 375kgs €1000, Chx 375kgs €895, Hex 345kgs €625, AA 280kgs €650, AA 215kgs €520.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

FarmingPeople

NewsPeople

Leyden calls for Property Marking Crime Prevention scheme Pictured at the Teagasc sheep seminar in the Abbey Hotel on Wednesday, January 9th were Damien Holland, Kieran Farrell and Michael Conroy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Cllr. Orla Leyden has called for a ‘Property Marking Crime Prevention’ scheme to be introduced in the county. At a recent meeting of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Leyden put down a motion calling on the Council to purchase a property marker machine in association with Roscommon Joint Policing Committee. “This Telesis Dot Peen machine works by stamping the individual’s Eircode into the item to be marked, thus making it more difficult to sell on if it’s stolen. It can be used on everything from steel

to plastic items. “The property marking machine could be loaned to Community Alert Groups and other groups free of charge who wish to organise property marking events for items such as lawnmowers, strimmers, trailers, TVs, smart phones. It could be of interest to sports cubs too. Schools could also avail of marking equipment belonging to the school and businesses and farmers might have power tools, generators and other portable equipment that would benefit from being marked”. The matter is now going

before the next meeting of the Roscommon Joint Policing Committee. Cllr. Leyden said that she is confident that the Property Marking Crime Prevention scheme will be introduced in Roscommon following the positive response she received at both Roscommon County Council where the motion was agreed and at the public meeting of Roscommon Joint Policing Committee in December where her proposal was supported by all present including An Garda Síochána. She concluded by saying that the property marking machine will be an invalu-

Cllr. Orla Leyden

able resource and that it could assist the Gardaí in tracing and recovering stolen property. “Most importantly it will act as a deterrent to thieves in the first place where signs and stickers saying ‘Beware Property Marking in Operation’ can be erected in the community,” she concluded.

Lily Flynn, Darren Smyth, Katelyn Coyne, Kyle Connaughton and Leo Keadin pictured at the Ballintubber St. Stephen’s Day walk/ run. Pics: Michael McCormack Pictured at the Teagasc sheep seminar in the Abbey Hotel on Wednesday, January 9th were Joan and Michael Geoghegan (Kepak). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Teagasc sheep seminar in the Abbey Hotel on Wednesday, January 9th were Pat Naughton and Donal Mee. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Teagasc sheep seminar in the Abbey Hotel on Wednesday, January 9th were James Kelly (Teagasc) and Anthony Flaherty (Red Mills). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

IFA to roll out Farm Safety initiative in 2019 Commenting on the figures released by the Health & Safety Authority, IFA’s Health & Safety Executive William Shortall said 2019 would see the rollout of IFA’s peer-to-peer farm safety learning initiative. He said: “There were 15 farm fatalities in 2018, which is a stark message that we have more to do in this area. The peer-to-peer initiative is about encouraging farmers to undertake practical measures that will reduce the risk on their own farm”. IFA has confirmed that it will use the branch struc-

ture within its 29 county executives to pilot the peer-to-peer farm safety learning initiative. The association says it has already visited over 60 farms. Farm visits have taken place in counties Tipperary, Clare, Wexford, Kildare and Limerick during the last three months of 2018. Farms which have been visited are a mixture of enterprises and sizes and groups meet in one particular yard where a discussion takes place concerning any ‘near-miss’ within the last 18 months. A walk

of the farm then takes place. The following areas are focused on: livestock housing and handling unit; machinery; farmyard; and workshop. The farmer is given a ‘pros and cons’ document to fill out based on what the group observe around the farm. The farmer then chooses one item or behaviour they will change before the group reconvenes. This process is repeated on each of the individual farms in the group. All members taking part in the pilot are doing so on a voluntary basis.

‘Fitz’ furious over Pembro failings The Irish Government’s failure to follow through on promises to provide state-funded access to the Pembro drug to cervical cancer patients is frightening, according to independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice. Deputy Fitzmaurice said those people who were assessed as suitable candidates were assured that the drug would be made available to them within a number of weeks. The Independent TD joined Labour’s health spokesperson, Alan Kelly, in calling on Minister Simon Harris to make the drug available to eligible cervical cancer patients as soon as possible. Commenting on the matter, Deputy Fitzmaurice said: “It is totally unacceptable that little or no progress has been made on this matter. “Time is of the essence for a lot

of these women and their families. They must not be forced to endure any further unnecessary delays; clarity on the matter is required for everyone involved. “It is deeply disappointing that promises were made to these patients prior to Christmas and no significant advancements have yet been made. “As it stands, women caught up in the CervicalCheck scandal are already benefitting from access to the Pembro drug thanks to state funding. So it is totally unfair that other eligible patients are being delayed from receiving beneficial treatment as a result of red tape. “The minister must stand up and show leadership when it comes to this matter and allocate the necessary funds to roll out the Pembro drug to the patients as quickly as possible,” he said.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Motoring People ADVERTORIAL

Why a credit union car loan is better than a PCP Close to four in ten consumers in Ireland will buy a new car in 2019. Over half plan to spend more than €10,000 on their new set of wheels, according to the most recent Carzone Motoring Report (2018). The study also found that one in four consumers who spent between €10,000 and €20,000 on their previous car, used a credit union car loan to fund the purchase.* Credit union loans have always been popular amongst car buyers for their straightforward terms and conditions and flexibility, and look set to be a top choice again in 2019. Roscommon Credit Union Ltd., are gearing up for an increase in car loan enquiries from their members with the introduction of their Low-

est Interest Rate yet for car finance, an amazing 6.5% (APR 6.72%). This specialist rate is available to all members new and existing for the month of January. Bernie Moran, Manager of Roscommon Credit Union Ltd., explains why she feels there has been a renewed interest in the traditional car loan. “A credit union loan is transparent and carries no hidden fees or charges. The buyer owns the car outright once they buy it, while with other more complex finance options, such as a PCP agreement, the buyer has effectively hired the car for a period of time while they make payments. At the end of the PCP agreement, they will have to make a balloon payment in order to actually own

the car, which can prove to be quite the financial sting in the tail if it hasn’t been budgeted for”. The Carzone report however also found that 72% of people who had spent more than €20,000 on their last car had used a finance options such as a PCP agreement. So while PCPs can be complicated, have a raft of additional charges and a good deal of inflexibility, they are proving popular with car-buyers in the over €20,000 market. Could this be down to the fact that a lot of consumers don’t fully understand what they are signing up to with a PCP? “For many people, headline rates on PCP agreements can at first look more attractive, but these can easily distract from

Powered by Adrenaline! The Honda Civic family is complete in Ireland The entire civic range is totally reimagined with all-new engines, bringing you the ultimate in power and performance with Honda Sensing as standard across all models. The tenth-generation all-new four-door Honda Civic sedan is available in your local Honda dealer now. It represents a significant step forward for Honda in the C-segment, benefiting from the largest single model global development programme in the company’s history. The Civic is a core model for Honda in Ireland and has been at the heart of the brand’s strong sales for many years and now with the Civic family fully complete, there is a car, engine and trans-

mission option available for everyone. The Honda Civic Sedan is available in a 1.0 Litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine in both CVT and Manual transmission and in a comprehensively revised 1.6 i-DTEC Diesel engine also available in both 9 Speed Automatic and Manual transmission. The new sedan rounds out the Civic family joining the 5DR 1.0 Litre and 1.5 Litre VTEC Turbo petrol hatchback, the high performance Civic Type R as well as the 5DR 1.6 i-DTEC Diesel hatchback. Keenan Bauer Honda, Lough Sheever Corporate Park, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath honda.keenanbauer.com 044 9342400

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Motoring People ADVERTORIAL

Own Your Own Car with Roscommon Credit Union Ltd. Our Lowest Car Interest Rate

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Gear Up this January with our Lowest Interest Rate of 6.5% (APR6.72%) on all Car Loans! Car Loan Term 156 Weekly Repayments Total Amount Payable Total Cost of Credit €5,000

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Interest calculated on a reducing balance. Variable representative example correct as of 02/01/19. This rate is applicable only on approved loans, loans to be drawn down by 28/02/19. T& C’s apply. Warning, if you do not meet the repayments on your loan, your account will go into arrears. This may affect your credit rating which may limit your ability to access credit in the future.

the fact that essentially PCPs are lease schemes and the buyer will need to be conscious of the mileage they are racking up, because the balloon payment, or guaranteed minimum future value (GMFV) of the car will have been calculated with their annual mileage in mind” Bernie explains. “In contrast, with a car loan from your credit union, the buyer simply borrows the money to pay for a car, which they own

immediately, and which they can drive as much as they please. They can also sell the car on at any time they wish, should they need to, whereas they do not have this option with a PCP. “Credit unions are ethical lenders. We will work with our members to structure repayments that suit their individual circumstances. At Roscommon Credit Union Ltd. our car loan is available at an affordable APR rate of

6.72%**, and is typically approved within hours. We also offer car insurance to make the whole process as convenient as possible for our members. “I would really encourage anyone thinking about going the PCP route to have a chat with us first at any of our three branches –Roscommon, Elphin or Strokestown – before making the final decision. We are happy to see all our members, no matter how long it

has been since they did business with the credit union, and of course we are always happy to chat to anyone who would like to become a member of Roscommon Credit Union Ltd”. For further information visit our branches today to speak to our friendly staff. Alternatively, visit our website www.roscommoncreditunion.ie * Carzone Motoring Report 2018

** For a €5,000, 3 year fixed interest rate loan with weekly repayments of €38.29, with an interest Rate of 6.5%, a representative APR of 6.72%, the total amount payable by the member is €5,488.67, total cost of credit equates to €488.67. Interest is calculated on a reducing balance. *** Loans subject to approval. Terms & Conditions Apply. Promotional Offer valid to 31/01/2019.

Speak to our staff today, and let’s get you motoring in 2019! Serving you in Roscommon, Strokestown and Elphin For more information visit our website www.roscommoncreditunion.ie Roscommon Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Roscommon 090 6626657 Strokestown 071 9635050 Elphin 071 9633362

“

A credit union loan is transparent and carries no hidden fees or charges

ATHLONE ROAD, BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY. LTD Ballinasloe

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Motoring People

NEW PEUGEOT 508 WHAT DRIVES YOU? TEST DRIVE NOW AT HUGO LOONAM MOTORS

See the new Peugeot 508 at Hugo Loonam Motors

HUGO LOONAM MOTORS, Main Peugeot Dealer Ferbane Street, Cloghan, Co. Offaly. Web: peugeot.hugoloonammotors.ie Tel: 090-6457104 WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) combined fuel consumption for new 508 in l/100km ranges from 4.6 to 7.8.WLTP combined CO2 emissions (g/km)range from 121 to 176.

Hugo Loonam Motors in Cloghan has the new Peugeot 508 in the showroom. Boasting the latest-generation PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® and a sharper, sleeker design than its predecessor, the much-anticipated new PEUGEOT 508 promises to deliver exemplary road-handling, high-performance petrol and diesel powertrains, countless technology features and a quantum leap in quality. With Dealer demonstrator models having arrived in late 2018, ahead of a late spring launch for the Irish market, the new 508 retails from €32,400, plus delivery-related charges, for the Active 1.5 BlueHDi 130bhp model. A five-year extended warranty will come as standard. Colin Sheridan, Sales and Marketing Director at Gowan Distributors, Peugeot Importers, said: “A simply stunning car that promises to shake up the D Segment, the new 508 meets stringent Euro 6.2 engine emissions controls and is packed with standard comfort and safety equipment. Highly favourable press reviews from the international press launch in late June have already signalled the new PEUGEOT 508 is very special indeed and we are recording strong enquiries from Irish customers, particularly since it was previewed in September at the National Ploughing Championships”. He continued: “Whilst every Peugeot Dealer will have a demonstrator in early 2019, due to unprecedented demand in countries where it has already

been launched, we currently anticipate a late spring customer launch in Ireland, potentially March 2019”. Built on the efficient EMP2 platform, the new PEUGEOT 508 will be available with a choice of four trims: Active, Allure, GT Line and GT. Two petrol engines and four diesel engines will be available, depending on trim chosen: a 1.6 THP petrol 180bhp automatic 8-speed S&S; a 1.6 THP petrol 225bhp automatic 8-speed S&S (GT only); a 1.5 BlueHDi diesel 130bhp 6-speed manual S&S, 1.5 BlueHDi diesel 130bhp automatic 8-Speed S&S; a 2.0 BlueHDi diesel 160bhp automatic 8-Speed S&S; a top of the range 2.0 BlueHDi diesel 180bhp automatic 8-Speed S&S. Standard equipment on the entry-level Active model, priced from €32,400 plus delivery, includes the revolutionary iCockpit® with 8” touchscreen, compact steering wheel and customisable heads up digital instrument panel, Mirrorscreen connectivity, 16” Alloys, spare wheel, speed limit recognition, lane keeping assist, cruise control and speed limiter, active safety brake, AGR (ergonomic) seats, visibility pack (automatic wipers and lights), visiopark 180 (front and rear parking aid with camera), electric folding mirrors and electrochrome rear view mirror. The Allure level three model costs from €34,930 plus delivery and gains a 10” touchscreen with satellite navigation, blind spot monitoring, high beam as-

sist, road sign recognition and recommendation, advanced driver attention alert, 17” alloys, USB x 2 in the rear, keyless access and start, lumbar support and dark tinted rear glass. The level four GT Line, from €38,170 plus delivery, benefits from 18” alloys, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, full LED headlights and 3D LED rear lights, 2nd row armrest with ski flap, electric lumbar support and tilt, GT Line exterior and interior styling (GT Line badging, chequered chrome radiator grille, stainless steel scuff plates, perforated leather steering wheel with GT Line emblem) and iCockpit Amplify (choice of two interior ambiences: Boost or Relax) with Driver Sports Pack. The range-topping GT version is priced from €49,120 plus delivery for the 2.0 BlueHDi 180bhp automatic version and comes equipped with 18” alloys, Focal sound system, Nappa leather seats with full electric driver’s massage seat, active suspension control, an electric tailgate and GT exterior and interior styling (GT badging). The new PEUGEOT 508 will be produced in the Mulhouse plant in France, while the French sites of Trémery and Douvrin will provide the powertrains. An SW estate version will arrive in Ireland some months after the launch of the fastback, whilst a plug-in hybrid petrol drivetrain will be sold on the new model from autumn 2019.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Motoring People

IT Sligo to deliver online Autonomous Vehicle course The first online course aimed at the Autonomous Vehicles industry was officially launched by the Minister of Higher Education, Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD last Friday (11th) at IT Sligo. This innovative new part-time Masters of Engineering programme brings together concepts such as computer vi-

Lanesboro Road, Roscommon T. 090 66 34671 / 086 8769291 www.hanlymotors.ie email: info@hanlymotors.ie

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sion, artificial intelligence, vehicle dynamics and advanced sensor systems to provide engineers with the skills required to design the next generation of self-driving cars. Speaking before the official launch, Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor said: “To have such a futuristic course delivered around the world to industry leaders, highlights how far third level education has come in Ireland. “Institutes of Technology have always worked with regional industries in delivering relevant courses. But now, thanks to IT Sligo’s embracing of online learning, we can now deliver ground breaking courses to industries around the world”. IT Sligo’s new online Master of Engineering in Connected and Autonomous Vehicles programme has been closely developed with the motor industry on the west coast of Ireland as well as with input from German automotive manufacturers and suppliers such as BMW and Continental AG through IT Sligo’s partner University of Applied Sciences, Kempten, Germany. IT Sligo is one of the largest suppliers of online courses in Ireland and is attracting many students from around the world with its innovative approach to online learning. Almost half of IT Sligo’s 6,000 students are now studying online. Master of Engineering in Connected and Autonomous Vehicles programme is one of over 100 courses available online at IT Sligo and has proven very popular among engineers working in the automotive industry.

Approval is subject to lending criteria, terms and conditions.

Boyle Credit Union Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Motoring People

One in three motorists considering new vehicle purchase in 2019 Research by mobility solutions specialist, Easytrip, Ireland’s only electronic parking and tolling tag provider, has revealed that one in three motorists are considering the purchase of a new vehicle in 2019. Those drivers who were seeking to secure a new vehicle this year also highlighted the following engine type preferences: Diesel (43%), Hybrid (27%), Petrol (19%), Electric (9%). When it came to where the vehicle would be purchased, respondents to the Easytrip research highlighted a local car dealership as their top choice at 77%. This was followed by 15% of respondents who were considering a UK import purchase, and 5% who would be purchasing the vehicle privately. Commenting on the research, Colin Delaney, CEO of Easytrip said: “A new vehicle purchase is a key requirement for many motorists and it’s interesting to see from our research that diesel remains as the most popular option followed by hybrids and petrol models this year. When it comes to where to purchase a vehicle, we would recommend that motorists do their research and select a local dealership who is a member of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). “Whether it’s a new or pre-owned model purchase, the car market has a lot to offer for those buying and we would advise motorists to shop around and to remind them to update their Easytrip account details when change of ownership is confirmed”. Easytrip is urging its customers to update their Easytrip account details if buying or selling a vehicle during the 191-registration period to avoid incurring any unnecessary toll charges.

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Spoil yourself with a full treatment FordValue Service. At Caseys Roscommon our FordValue Service for Ford models five years and older comes with an oil and filter change plus multi-point Five vehicle inspection. Then, as part of your FordValue Service, we add in these fabulous FREE extras: FREE Check for outstanding FordService actions FREE Visual Health Check ● FREE Car Wash, plus special formulation windscreen detergent ● ●

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Classifieds

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FENCING/GATES FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs. Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

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

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

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

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

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6630760

FARMING

DRIVING LESSONS

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

Email: grace@finbaroreilly.ie Facebook: www.facebook. com/careersgraceoreilly

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

MARQUEE HIRE Manor Marquee Hire Now taking bookings for 2019

20% discount on all bookings before 28th Feb 2019 Selection of marquees and bouncy castles available for any occasion; • Parties • Weddings • Communions/Confirmations • Corporate/Charity Events • Agricultural Shows • Special Occasions • Funerals We also have a selection of tables & chairs, bar facilities and stages. For any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact us. Tel: 087 2829226 Email: manormarquees@ gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Classifieds GARDENING WALTER BEGLEY

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

HOLISTIC JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms

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

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

Gift vouchers now available

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

JOE HEALY Tree Services

087 9201818 Find us on facebook

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage Appointments with Anne Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday.

Phone:

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

Over 30 years in business

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

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

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklawntreeservices.com

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

086 4679798

087 2721193

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

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

CONTACT JOHN

Molloy’s Pharmacy, The Harrison Centre, Roscommon

• Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

PAINTER & DECORATOR

For all your decorating needs

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

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

PAINTING & DECORATING

MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN

Sports & Remedial Massage Therapist

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

 TO RENT: 2 bedroom apartment to rent 6km from Roscommon town. Tel: 087 7537442

PLANNINGS

Phone Oleg Doroshkevich on:

086 1283578 O’Keefe Park, Glenamaddy Available in Galaxy Thrusday & Friday 5-9pm SATURDAYS ALL DAY

090 6634909 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

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

PLANNINGS

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 I Eoin Connolly am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish existing house and construct replacement dwelling house and upgrade existing septic tank system with new proprietary treatment system and percolation area and carryout all ancillary site works at Shankoagh, Castlerea, Roscommon. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 6627950 Andy 086 3646210 James 087 8228529 info@morrislohan.ie. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €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 I Billy Diamond am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct dwellinghouse and garage with proprietary treatment system and carryout all associated site development works at Lismeehy, Strokestown, Roscommon. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon Ph Office: 090 6627950 Andy 086 3646210 James 087 8228529 info@morrislohan.ie. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €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.

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Pauric and Lauretta Lyons intend to apply for permission for an extension to the front/ side of existing dwelling and alterations to existing dwelling at Cuilleen, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Keith McLoughlin and Mary Garvey intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage/fuel store, proprietary treatment system, percolation area and associated works at Coolagarry, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for use of first floor area as Community Meeting Room and ancillary development, in Dressing Room Complex previously granted permission under PD / 11 / 325 at Lisnamult, Roscommon.

Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinmore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway P: 090 66 24681 M: 087 635 8949 E: sblake2006@gmail.com

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €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 I am applying for planning permission for erection of dwelling house with proprietary sewerage treatment plant and percolation area, and ancillary site development works at Creggan, Cornafulla.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL NO 16. THE PADDOCK ATHLEAGUE TOWNLAND CO. ROSCOMMON We hereby apply to Roscommon Co. Council on behalf of Shane Keane for planning permission to construct a fully serviced private dwelling house, and all associated site works at the above location.

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 am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Niall Mullin and Rachel Garvey to demolish a house and outbuilding at Castlestrange, Fuerty, 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct extensions to the front/rear of an existing dwelling, to carry out alterations to an existing dwelling, to retain domestic garage/fuel shed and all associated ancillary works at Dundonnell, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Nigel Moore. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Anthony Doolin Lisnmult Residents Association

Signed: Oliver Harney The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Petr Musiolek for planning permission for the retention of minor alterations to the front and rear elevations of the dwelling to that which differs from planning granted under PD 04/913 and all associated works at Stonepark Td, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Pauric and Lauretta Lyons Mackney, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

Signed: Noel O’ Brien and Associates Mountbellew, Co. Galway Phone/Fax No (090) 9679506 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 the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of The Board of Management of St. Coman’s Wood Primary School for planning permission to construct a new Extension to accommodate 2 No new Classrooms and a Disability W/C and all associated site development works at The Senior Abbey Site, Ballypheasan Td, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. F42 X275 Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Classifieds SITUATIONS VACANT  CHATTERLAND PLAYSCHOOL AND CRECHE, ELPHIN: Currently have a vacancy for an Early Years Educator, FETAC Level 6 essential. Please send CVs to chatterlandcreche@hotmail.com or call Áine 087 8325301  SMYTH’S TRANSPORT: Require a full-time HGV Apprentice Mechanic. Tel: 087 2541720  CHILDMINDER: Required to mind child in child’s own home 4 days per month would suit parttime worker or student. Knockcroghery area. Box No: 2005 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon  TREACHER REQUIRED: To assist child with special needs with homework for 1 hour each day, Monday Friday, Roscommon town area. References required. Box No: 2006 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

SITUATIONS WANTED  STONEMASON AVAILABLE: Houses, walls, fireplaces etc, 25 years experience, previous work can be seen. Phone Johnny: 087 2863304  EXPERIENCED LIVE IN CARER AVAILABLE: Can be flexible to family requirements. References available on request. Contact 0874621841 for further details.  GUITARIST AVAILABLE: For work, doubling on Bass and vochals. Tel: 087 6431406

 BUILDER AVAILABLE FOR SMALL PROJECTS: Extensions, bathroom, conversions, replacement windows etc. Tel: 086 0512267

SEAN NÓS DANCING CLASSES

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

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

TOM KILDUFF CABS

0862124423

GRINDS IN JUNIOR AND LEAVING CERTIFICATE BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTING

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

2018 SEASONED TURF

Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

Tutoring for college students in Business, Accountancy and Taxation.

KELLY’S EYE

LEAVING CERTIFICATE STUDENTS

also Peat Bedding Available

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

086 2721812

Taxi and Minibus hire.

PHONE:

087 2727888 TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible Call car direct

(086) 2714879

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849 CASTLEREA/TULSK: Leaving/Junior Cert, Irish, French, Maths. Private tuition in your own home. Tel: 086 3282437  GRINDS: French grinds for Leaving and Junior Cert. Available in the Roscommon town area. Please email at: tuteurtricolore@ gmail.com Facebook/Tuteur tricolore. Tel: 089 9470991  GRINDS: Castlerea, Irish, French and German, oral and exam paper technique, higher and ordinary level, LC and Jnr. Cert. Tel: 087 3515985  MATHEMATICS TUITION: One to one, up to Junior Cert higher level and Leaving Cert ordinary level. Experienced education professional, Roscommon town. Please call, text or email for further information: 083 4843192 email: mariag21eircom.net

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

086 2437376 FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE 14/01/19

Sean Nós Dancing Classes (for all ages and levels of ability) commence Friday, January 18th at 8pm in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon for more info call Rian Biesty on

TUITION

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

FIRST PRIZE €50: Patricia Macklin c/o Donnellans SECOND PRIZE €25: Jess Carthy c/o Central Bar THIRD PRIZE €20: S Hannon c/o John Igoe 8 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Dermot McDermott c/o K Hoare Aoife Donellan Kay Hoare Frank + Joe c/o K Hoare Mary Mulhern c/o K Collins Helen Farmer c/o K Hoare Brigid Quinn c/o Wards Goff St. Eileen Kelly c/o B. Healy 5 PROMOTERS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Sorcha Ward Kathleen Collins K Hoare John Igoe Breda Healy Total Prizes: €200

Tel: Donal (All areas)

 FOR SALE: Large lorry loads of turf. Screened and delivered. Orders for this year’s turf taken now. Tel: 086 7236301  THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag • Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free. • 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439

USEFUL SERVICES

CRASH REPAIRS

Appointments Blueprint Autos and Craic N Campers require MARKETING/SOCIAL MEDIA EXECUTIVE for immediate start in Roscommon Town. Salary to €25,000. Required: A Strong customer service approach; Strong general administrative skills; Marketing and Sales ability (including promotional design); Social Media ability (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Mailchimp). A can do attitude and willingness to work in all aspects of the business and a full clean Irish Driving Licence. Applications now Open. This is a unique opportunity for a career minded individual, who wishes to grow with this organisation. Please forward curriculum vitae to integritecareers@gmail.ie

PAINTING & DECORATING  PAINTING SERVICES: For all your painting needs, interior and exterior painting. Power washing, gutters and facias cleaned. Telephone Tom: 086 0815802

Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 6626752

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

Applications are invited from suitably qualiﬁed candidates for inclusion on a panel for the position of:

TEMPORARY CASUAL PART-TIME EVENTS ASSISTANT – ROSCOMMON ARTS CENTRE Application forms and full particulars may be obtained from the Human Resources Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98. E-mail: humanresources@roscommoncoco.ie Telephone: (090) 6637233 Web: www.roscommoncoco.ie Candidates may be shortlisted on the basis of information supplied on application form. The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 5pm on Wednesday 30th January 2019. Canvassing will disqualify.

SERVICE

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

ONLY €80

LUKE COEN

Motor Mechanics Required Full Time Motor Mechanic

Plumbing + Maintenance

Full Time & for Partgarage Time positions available Required in Carrick on Shannon, CoShannon, Leitrim. For garage in Carrick on Co. Leitrim

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477  ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered - No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

HOME MAINTENANCE  HOME MAINTENANCE: All aspects covered, plumbing, electrics, carpentry and any household emergency. 24 hour call out. Phone Kieran: 087 7465281 or Jake 085 1002423  SHANE NAUGHTON ROOFING CONTRACTOR Roofing, slating, tiling, 1st and 2nd fixing and flooring. All aspects of carpentry and building undertaken. Tel: 086 3155329

• Bathroom planning and design to suit you • All aspects of plumbing and maintenance carried out • Call for free quoation or visit Luke Coen Plumbing + Maintenance on facebook

Contact Luke on 087 1948286

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

Roscommon County Council is an equal opportunities employer Is fostóir comhionannais deiseanna í Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin

• Applicant must be fully qualified. • Have extensive knowledge of cars & light goods vehicles. • Position Full Time Monday to Friday 8.45 to 6pm Please Forward CV to Shane O’Rourke, O’Rourke’s Garage, Leitrim Road, Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim. email: orourkestatoil@eircom.net or phone 0868231700

CALL AFTER 6.30PM

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!

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Classifieds

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

Appointments

The Brothers of Charity Services Ireland – West Region empower people with intellectual disability and people on the autistic spectrum to live the lives they choose. Our focus going forward is to form a partnership with each individual and to work in consultation with families, enabling each person to design their own service so that they can enjoy a meaningful life in their chosen community with a healthy balance of supports. We wish to create opportunities for people with an intellectual disability to have valued social roles in their communities and to have the chance to form friendships. In order to assist us to achieve this vision we wish to recruit innovative and proactive people who will relish the opportunity to assist in implementing this vision. Applications are invited from suitable qualified candidates for the following positions 2 X PERMANENT PART-TIME SOCIAL CARE WORKERS East-Roscommon Residential Services (Elphin Area) (Reference: 87/18 - Please clearly quote reference code on the application form) These roles are to support/be a mentor for a male in his 50’s living in his residential home and the requirement is minimum of a level 7 degree in social care/applied social studies and experience working within the ID sector and with challenging behaviour. If you would like to obtain further details and apply for the above positions please log onto www.irishjobs.ie/ PANELS MAY BE FORMED FROM WHICH FUTURE PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY VACANCIES MAY BE FILLED IN THE ROSCOMMON REGION IN THE COMING 6 MONTHS Closing Date: 5.00 p.m., Sunday, 20th January 2019 INTERVIEWS WILL BE HELD Monday, 28th January 2019

FAMILYNOTICES .... MEE Bernadette and Frank

REGAN Rita & Jack

HOARE Annie

Hawthorn Drive and Feevagh, Dysart (2nd and 13th Anniversary)

RITA (26/12/1983) & JACK (09/01/2004) Ballindrimley, Castlerea

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Your presence we miss, your memory we treasure, In our hearts, you will live forever

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

Always remembered by family, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Saturday, 19th January at 7pm.

Sadly missed by Katherine, Caroline, Janet, Francis, Lauren, Jack, their sisters and all the family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea on Sunday, 20th January at 12.00pm.

CURLEY Josie

HANLEY Sally Ann

REGAN Ann

Castlestrange, Fuerty, Roscommon Whose 5th Anniversary occurs on 18th January 2019

(2nd Anniversary) Who died 13th January, 2017

Liscoffey, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (14th Anniversary) Who died on 21st January 2005

The Brothers of Charity Services Ireland - Roscommon Region is an equal opportunities employer

Providing free, confidential and impartial information, advice and advocacy services to the public on social services, rights and entitlements. Community Employment Scheme - Eligibility for the post and pay scales are based on Community Employment criteria and subject to Department of Employment and Social Protection (DEASP) funding and approval. All applicants must confirm their eligibility for the Community Employment scheme with DEASP prior to submitting their application. Employer: Position: Location: Hours per Week:

Roscommon & District Soccer League Receptionist Roscommon Citizens Information Centre 19 ½ hours

Role: • Client facing role - reception and triage (good understanding of written and spoken English) • Administrative duties • Oversee and manage public reception area • Data collection, analysis and recording • Assist in the development of a quality information service • Attending meetings and required training • Maintain post book and manage phone system • Record deliveries and stock taking Desired Skills/Knowledge • Excellent communication skills • Ability to work on own initiative • Good level of IT • Customer service background • Good organisational skills • Ability to work as part of a team • A knowledge of social services Candidates seeking further information should contact Fiona on 0761 07 6380 or by email at fiona.kilmartin@citinfo.ie . A cover letter, together with Curriculum Vitae, with the names of two referees, should be clearly marked “Receptionist” and sent to: By Post: Fiona Kilmartin, Roscommon Citizens Information Centre, Unit 17-18 Castle View, Castle Street, Roscommon By Email: fiona.kilmartin@citinfo.ie Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00pm Wednesday 30th January 2019.

In loving memory of our beloved mother Josie Curley, Castlestrange, Fuerty, who passed away on 18th January 2014 R.I.P. As each day dawns We think of you As each night falls We pray for you And in between No matter where Deep in our hearts You’re always there. Always loved and remembered by all your loving family.

Loved and sadly missed by your sister Bernie and family Anniversary Mass in Cloverhill Church on Friday, 18th January at 7.30pm.

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

Roscommon & District Soccer League is an equal opportunities employer. This position is funded and supported under the Employment Services Programme by the Department of Employment and Social Protection.

Gone are the days we used to share But in our hearts you are always there In God’s care you rest above In our hearts you rest with love Quietly your memory we treasure Missing you always, forgetting you never

The local paper!

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.D. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. K.N.

As we look back over time We find ourselves wondering ..... Did we remember to thank you enough For all you have done for us? For all the times you were by our sides To help and support us ..... To celebrate our successes To understand our problems And accept our defeats? Or for teaching us by your example, The value of hard work, good judgement, Courage and integrity? We wonder if we ever thanked you For the sacrifices you made To let us have the very best? And for the simple things Like laughter, smiles and times we shared? If we have forgotten to show our gratitude enough for all the things you did, We’re thanking you now And we are hoping you knew all along, How much you meant to us.

Missed always by James, sons, daughters, sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law and all your grandchildren. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday, 19th January at 7pm.

Your life was a blessing Your memory a treasure You are loved beyond words. And missed beyond measure.

Loved and remembered always by all your family.

HOARE Monika 19 Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of a loving wife, mother and sister who passed away on 19th January 2009 MONIKA We’re missing you a little more Each time we hear your name We’ve cried so many tears Yet our hearts broken just the same. We miss our times together Things in common we could share But nothing fills the emptiness Now you’re no longer there We’ve so many precious memories To last our whole life through Each one of them reminders Of how much we’re missing you

Loved dearly and never forgotten by Harry and daughters Martha and Beth. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ MONIKA Side by side or miles apart We are sisters by the heart

Dearly loved and deeply missed by your sisters Mary and Camilla and lovingly remembered by your brothers-in-law Jimmy and Donal and nephew Paul and niece Ciara. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ MONIKA It’s not the tears that are shed at the time, That tell how the heart is torn, It’s the silent tears in the after years and the grief that is silently borne.

Always loved, never forgotten, your sisters and brothers-in-law. Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 26th January at 10am.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES MULLANEY John and Mary Jo

BROOKS Enda

FINNERAN Paddy

WHYTE Desmond

Rathconnor, Four Mile House (30th and 4th Anniversary)

(15th Anniversary) Antrane

(7th Anniversary) Onagh

Oran, Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

Taughmaconnell In loving memory of Enda and his granddad Paddy

In loving memory of our dear father John who died on the 14th October 1988 and our dear mother Mary Jo who died on the 19th January 2015 Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us everday Unseen, unheard but always near Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Sadly missed by their daughters, sons, extended family and a wide circle of friends. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Four Mile House Church on Sunday, 20th January at 11am.

COYLE Henry and Mary

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

Loved and remembered by all the family. Anniversary Mass in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell on Friday, 18th January at 7.30pm.

TIGHE Philomena

O’BRIEN Kathleen

Glinsk, Castlerea (19th Anniversary)

Milltown, Kiltoom, Athlone. (2nd Anniversary)

The flowers we place on your grave May wither and decay But love for you who sleeps beneath Will never fade away.

Missed and remembered by his family and friends. Des’ First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Donamon Castle on Saturday, 19th January at 7pm.

CORBETT James (Jimmy)

Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (43rd and 2nd Anniversary)

Mount Prospect Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Philomena Tighe late of Glinsk, Castlerea, who died on 22nd January 2000 Your memory we teasure With thoughts that are dear We think of you always Not just once a year

Sadly missed by your loving family. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 19th January at 7pm.

MULVEE Peter Ashgrove Drive, Ballyvolane, Cork and Ballygar, Co. Galway Acknowledgment and First Anniversary

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

Always remembered Anne and family. R.I.P. Anniversary Mass in Glinsk Church on Saturday, 19th January at 7pm.

In loving memory of Kathleen who died on 21st January 2017 Sadly missed by Tom, Helen, children and grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends. R.I.P. Anniversary Mass in Curraghboy Church, on Sunday, 20th January at 10am.

MOORE Mary (13th Anniversary)

KENNY Darragh

As we fondly remember Peter on his First Anniversary, we his family wish to thank all those who sympathised with us, attended his Funeral ceremonies and sent Mass Cards. Special thanks to Fr. John O’ Donovan, Fr. Myles Mc Sweeney, Fr. Michael Breslin, Kevin and all the staff of O’ Connor Bros. Funeral Homes Cork, David Moran of Moran’s Funeral Home Ballygar, An Garda Siochana, Dr. David Molony, the management and staff at Bridhaven Nursing Home and Mallow General Hospital, gravediggers at Killyan Cemetery, John Fallon and staff of Fallon’s Bar, Ballygar and all our relatives and friends who travelled long distances to be with us for his Removal and Funeral. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all your intentions.

In loving memory of Mary, late of Carrenterriff, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Co Roscommon who died on January 21st 2006.

In loving memory of Darragh Kenny, Gort, Lecarrow DARRAGH You left us quietly Your thoughts unknown But left us memories We are proud to own So treasure him Lord In Your garden of rest Because here on earth He was one of the best.

Sadly missed by your mother Fidelma, father Liam, sisters Catriona and Sarah, brother Michael and Ciara. Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 20th January at 11.30am.

A thousand times we needed you. A thousand times we cried. If love alone could have saved you, You never would have died. A heart of gold stopped beating; Two twinkling eyes closed to rest. God broke our hearts to prove He only took the best. Never a day goes by that you’re not in our hearts and mind.

Sadly missed on this thirteenth anniversary by your loving husband, George and family.

Muckinagh, Ballygar (18th and 17th Anniversaries)

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

Your loving sons Tommy, John, Joe and families. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday, 18th January at 7.30pm.

THANKSGIVINGS

A dear Husband and Father Jimmy we love and miss you so much God bless.

Veronica, James and Martin. Jimmy’s Second Anniversary Mass will be held in the Church of the Assumption, Castlecoote on Sunday, 20th January at 11.30am.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

(6th Anniversary) Died 15th January 2013

FALLON Ellen (Nellie) and Johnny

HAMILL Tom Cloonslanor, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Whose birthday occurs on 18th January 2018 A smile for everyone A heart of gold The very best this world could hold Never selfish Always kind These are the lovely Memories you left behind

Always remembered by your loving daughter, Kathleen, son-in-law John and grandsons David and John. R.I.P. Grandad

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. A.D. PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE My St. Expedite of urgent and just causes, please intercede for me with our Lord Jesus Christ, succour me in this hour of affliction and despair my St. Expedite, you who are a Holy warrior, you who are the Saint of the afflicted, you who is the Saint of the desperate, you who is the Saint of urgent causes, protect me, help me, give me strength, courage and serenity. Hear my plea. (Make request). Clearly express what you want and ask him to find a way to get it to you. My Saint Expedite, help me to prevail through these difficult hours, protect me from all those who want to harm me, respond to my plea with urgency, bring me back to that state of peace and tranquillity, my Saint Expedite, I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life and I will speak your name to all those who have faith. Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering when your desire is granted. Amen. Say one Our Father, one Hail Mary and make the sign of the cross. Be sure to provide the offering you promised, if Saint Expedite grants your petition. Thank you so much for everything, for hearing and answering my prayer. And to St. Michael and St. John. Amen. M.C. /RYH·V *UHDWHVW *LIW 5HPHPEUDQFH

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Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Sports People

Cunning’ plan… Anthony’s reign off to winning start Anthony Cunningham addresses the Roscommon team prior to the FBD League semi-final between Roscommon and Sligo at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic Mick McCormack.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

SportsPeople

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

Dooner’s weekend predictions No real surprises in the Premier Division last weekend and champions St. Peter’s will now be looking on with great interest this weekend as two of their title rivals face off in Ballymoe…

Saturday, January 19th Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Premier Division (7.45 pm) Kilkerrin United v Ballinasloe Town The visitors will be expected to claim all three points but it won’t be easy. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town Strokestown United v Cloonfad United This is a real relegation six-pointer and it’s a game Strokestown really can’t afford to lose. Prediction: Strokestown United Killeen Sports Grounds Division 2 (7.45 pm)

Glen Celtic v Ballymoe FC B Home win. Prediction: Glen Celtic

Sunday, January 20th Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Premier Division Shiven Rovers v Moore United. 11 am Moore are well capable of getting a result here. Prediction: Draw Skyvalley Rovers v Dysart FC. 11 am Home advantage should result in a big three points for Skyvalley. Prediction: Skyvalley Rovers Ballymoe FC v Boyle Celtic. 2 pm Neither side can really afford to lose this one. Prediction: Draw Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (2 pm)

No racing in Ireland today and there is flat action under lights on the all-weather track at Dundalk tomorrow evening, stalls open for the first at 5.30 pm. On Saturday it’s the turn of Navan to host four hurdles, two chases and a bumper starting at 12.30 pm with the Grade B Navan Handicap Hurdle the feature. Sunday sees racing at Thurles featuring four hurdles, two chases and a bumper including the Horse & Jockey and the Coolmore NH Sires EBF Mares Novice Chases both Grade 2 races with a 12.30 pm start. Adrian Joyce sends two horses from his Curraghboy yard to Dundalk on Friday night Coach Bombay, a great servant of the yard with 3 wins and umpteen places and Mercury, who finished 5th in a race there last week beaten 2½l by Ken’s Sam, owned by Roscommon man Tommy Kelly, and running well without being abused. The Coach also had a run here in January finishing 6th behind Ragtime Red beaten over 6l. Both must have chances.

General News

Horses for Courses

Noel Fehily ended up in hospital on Saturday night after stomach pains which turned out to be appendicitis and underwent keyhole surgery. His agent Chris Broad said he never had a jockey experience this and while Fehily will be focused on making a full recovery it’s impossible to say how long he’ll be out for until there is a full prognosis. Good news for patrons in the north in

Soccer Results Cam Celtic v Ballaghaderreen FC Cam won the reverse fixture back in October but Ballaghaderreen will be hopeful of a better result this weekend. Prediction: Draw St. John’s Athletic v Ballinasloe Town B Home win. Prediction: St. John’s Athletic Killeen Sports Grounds Division 2 (2 pm) Cloonfad United B v St. Cuan’s United Cloonfad are slight favourites. Prediction: Cloonfad United B Manor United v Castlerea Celtic B The league leaders could face a stern test here. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic B Roscommon United v Skyvalley Rovers B Another must-win game for the hosts as they bid to stay on course in the title race. Prediction: Roscommon United

Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Premier Division St. Peter’s FC 2 Kilkerrin United 0 Shiven Rovers 1 Castlerea Celtic 3 Ballinasloe Town 3 Skyvalley Rovers 0 Cloonfad United 1 Moore United 4 Norio’s Takeaway Division One Ahascragh United 0 Ballinasloe Town B 3 Killeen Sports Grounds Division Two Glen Celtic 2 Shiven Rovers B 2 Joe’s Bar RDFL Challenge Cup Round 1 Castlerea Celtic B 0 St. John’s Athletic 1 Ballymoe FC 1 Skyvalley Rovers B 2 Ballaghaderreen FC 0 Manor United 1 Roscommon United 1 Cam Celtic 2 Rahara Rovers 2 Dunmore Town 0 St. Cuan’s United 1 CP Ajax 6

that the owners of Down Royal Racecourse Merrion Group have come to an agreement with the Down Royal Corporation of Horse Breeders which will ensure a smooth handover of the site and a seamless transition into racing at Down Royal from 2019 and beyond. The agreement, which was signed the week before Christmas, covers the fixtures and fittings on the site and all the branding associated with the racecourse which has staged horse racing for over two centuries.

Cheltenham Watch There are 27 horses entered in the Champion Hurdle headed by Nicky Henderson’s Buveur D’Air. Gordon Elliott’s Apple’s Jade heads an Irish entry of twelve. WP Mullins supplies five of the strong Irish entry with Gordon Elliott providing four including the doubtful Samcro, Henry de Bromhead, Gavin Cromwell and Jessica Harrington have one each. Which of the O’Leary horses, Apple’s Jade or Samcro will take on Henderson? There are 24 horses entered in the Queen Mother Campion Chase headed by Nicky Henderson’s Altior who is the odds-on ante post fav. WP Mullins supplies four of the strong Irish entry with Henry de Bromhead next with three, Gordon Elliott has two and Pat Fahy one. Great Field, owned by JP McManus and trained by Willie Mullins, has not fully re-

Coach Bombay just prevails from Rince Deireanach (nearest) and Society Ranger at Navan.

covered from a fall at Leopardstown over Christmas and is out of Cheltenham including Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase. Willie Mullins has also revealed leading Supreme Novices’ Hurdle fancy Quick Grabim will miss the Festival after suffering a stress fracture in when winning the Grade 1 Royal Bond Hurdle at Fairy-

house but hopes to have him back for Punchestown. Of the 44 in the Ryan Air Chase Mullins once again has most entries with 13 of the 29 Irish entries followed by Elliott who has six, de Bromhead with four, Noel Meade has three and Eddie Harty, Jessica Harrington and Pat Fahy one apiece Gordon Elliott’s Samcro will be entered for the Champion Hurdle in March but is a very doubtful runner for Cheltenham as he is suffering a lung infection discovered in tests following a couple of very disappointing runs this season. He will miss the Dublin Racing Festival next month and is set to go novice chasing next season. Ruby Walsh could face a tough choice if Laurina, Melon and Sharjah make to Prestbury Park for the Champion Hurdle. Walsh says it will be tough to bypass the unbeaten Laurina if she turns up. WP Mullins also has last year’s runner-up Melon and the progressive Sharjah also in contention currently.

Point to Point Corner

by Tom Red Great Field and Jody McGarvey win the Grade 1 Ryanair at Punchestown.

Again, no racing on the northern circuit and only one meeting in the south on Sunday at Boulta where racing begins at 12.30 pm and there are 100 entries. Corkonian Ciaran Fennessy has announced he is retiring from race-riding after 19 seasons. He was leading novice rider in 2011 with 16 winners. He rode his winner on Tubberadane at Dungourney in 2005 and his final winner on Chadown at Kinsale last season in a career which delivered 181 winners overall.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

@dan_dooner

History makers set for All-Ireland semi-ﬁnal! THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner The hurlers of Carrick-on-Shannon made history last November when they became the first men’s team from Leitrim to claim a provincial club championship title. Carrick defeated Ballygar of Galway in the AIB Connacht Junior Hurling Championship Final on a scoreline of 2-11 to 1-9. They will now face Ulster champions Castleblayney from Monaghan in Cusack Park, Mullingar in Sunday’s All-Ireland semi-final with throw-in at 2 pm. Olcan Conway from Derry is the man in charge of the Carrick club. “It’s a big achievement. Carrick is the next closest club after the likes of Roscommon Gaels and Oran in Co. Roscommon so we have players from all over and some of the boys play football for Shannon Gaels and Kilmore. “All of our underage teams compete in Roscommon, of course, but a few years ago would have

been the whipping boys! Now it’s different, they like going down and you can sense a bit of fear creeping in in Roscommon!” In terms of the men’s team, Olcan said Carrick had been battling away for a number of years and had reached a couple of Connacht finals in the past. The big breakthrough arrived this year though as the Connacht title made its way across the Shannon to a rapturous welcome. So how does a man from Derry end up managing a Connachtconquering team in Leitrim? “Ah look, you know yourself, you meet a woman, you marry her and you end up living in Leitrim – it’s definitely not the worst thing I’ve ever done!” (Laughs) Sunday’s semi-final showdown certainly won’t need any more hype in Carrick and Castleblayney nor among members of the Glancy family. As Hughie and Tomás prepare to tog out with Carrick, brother Cian will be waiting for them among the opposition. From a Roscommon point of view, David McKenna, Kevin O’Dowd, Lorcan Dolan, Shane and Dessie Beirne and Cian

French will be lining out for the Connacht champions, who, due to players being spread out all over Ireland, must meet in Tubber in Co. Offaly twice a week for training sessions. Manager Olcan is happy the

waiting is over and is quietly confident of his team’s chances. “I’m really looking forward to it now, been a lot of waiting around since November. We’ve enjoyed it though; it’s a whole new experience playing through the winter

from just across the border will be hoping to come back across the bridge with another scalp and plans for another big day out this Sunday evening.

The Carrick hurlers pictured celebrating their Connacht Junior Hurling success in Bekan last November.

People’s champions of the week

In the sporting diary .... GAA Referee Course in February

This week’s champions are all the Roscommon teams who represented the county with great distinction at last weekend’s Connacht Scór finals in Claremorris. There were wins for St. Dominic’s (Rince Foirne and Léiriú), Kilglass Gaels (Tráth na gCéist) and Evan Gunn of Elphin (Recitation). Well done to everyone who took part and congratulations to the winners!

Roscommon GAA are in the process of recruiting personnel for their upcoming GAA Referees Course, which takes place in early February. The course entails two nights training in the County Board offices in Roscommon and one night online. The final session of training takes place in Croke Park on April 6th where all the new referees trained throughout Ireland will come together for the final seminar. All clubs are advised that it is their duty to put forward at least one candidate for the upcoming course. Clubs who don’t have a referee at present are requested to make a special effort to put this situation right. Any queries please contact Roscommon referee administrator Haulie Beirne on 086-8293845

The Ballinamore quiz team which took part in the Connacht finals of Tráth na gCéist in Claremorris last weekend. Pictured from left: Bernard Sweeney, Brian Sweeney, Lizzie O’Connell and Eoin Connaughton. Pic: Michael Donnelly

‘Zero2Tri’ with Lanesboro Triathlon Club

Did you know? The sporting brief According to extensive research (I overheard it in the office this week), Dublin haven’t won an All-Ireland Senior football title in a year ending in 9 since they beat Cork on the Jones’ Road in 1899 to complete a three in a row. Since then Kerry have won it seven times in years ending in 9 (1909, 1929, 1939, 1959, 1969, 1979, 2009), Meath twice (1949 and 1999), Kildare once (1919) and Cork once (1989). How Kerry hasn’t been split in two up to now remains a mystery! So, what does it all mean? Probably nothing but then again Meath have already beaten Dublin this year…

months. There are no distractions because there’s nothing else on! We’ll give it a good rattle on Sunday, I’ve seen Castleblayney and there’s not a lot between the teams”. The hurling history makers

Golf

Golf round Our weekly round-up begins in Athlone where last week’s gent’s 15-hole competition was won by Charlie Walsh with a great score of 35 points. The ladies’ 12-hole was won by Noirin O’Rourke with another great score of 25 points. Qualification for Kevin’s Better the Score competition got underway last weekend for the ladies. The qualifying score is 21 points or better over 12 holes in order to play in the final on St. Patricks’ Day. The winner of the recent Wednesday Open Singles 15hole competition was Anthony O’Connor with 34 points.

In Boyle, Brendan Gaffney and Jim Mooney were the winners of the Foursomes competition last Sunday. Lorcan Egan and Mark Whelan claimed second place. The winner of the 18-hole Stableford on Sunday, January 6th was Tommy King with a great score of 41 points, with David Wynne’s 38 points taking second, and Michael Rush coming in third place with 38 points. Gary Carty took the prize for best gross score. This Sunday’s men’s competition is a Fourball Betterball. Boyle Club member and GUI tournament referee, Jim Mooney, was recently requested by the men’s committee to do a presentation on the new rules for members of the club. This

presentation is designed to help members avoid falling foul of the changes. Jim has kindly agreed to give his presentation in the clubhouse this evening (Thursday) at 8 pm. This is open to all club members and it is strongly advised that ladies and gents attend in order to reduce the chances of falling foul of the new rules this year. We finish our round in Carrick where new rules have also been introduced for 2019. New rules books are available in the clubhouse and the Facebook page has updates. The winner of the recent men’s 50/50 9-hole was Kevin Sheeran with 23 points. Andy Connellan was second, just one point behind. The competition continues this weekend.

Lanesboro Triathlon Club will launch a ‘Zero2Tri’ programme at 7 pm this Friday (18th) at Lanesboro Co-Op Hall with the objective of taking beginners in all or any of the three disciplines and developing them into triathletes ready to compete at the Two Provinces Triathlon, which takes place this July. Those wishing to join the club to train or compete at any one of the three disciplines are also invited to do so. Those interested are invited to attend any of the following open training sessions or please contact the club: Running on Friday, January 25th at 7.30 pm at Lanesboro track; bike/ turbo training on Wednesday 23rd at 7 pm in Lanesboro CoOp Hall; swimming training on Monday, January 21st at 9 pm in Roscommon Leisure Centre.

Northern Gaels AGM The Northern Gaels GAA AGM takes place in Glenamaddy Community Centre this Sunday (20th) at 3 pm. All are welcome to attend and hear about the club’s achievements throughout its first year in existence, and plans for the new season ahead.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

Seamus Duke ON SPORT Reserving judgement on new rules! @SeamusDuke

Maybe those of us who were in Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday saw a game where the proposed new playing rules did not affect the game hardly at all and that was unusual but I will have to see a few more games before I make up my mind about them. The much-criticised three hand pass rule was only pulled for once in the game and Roscommon in particular played some great long kick-passes.

Portlaoise boxer defends his crown TJ Doheny from Portlaoise has been pretty much under the radar as an Irish sporting hero. However last August he became the IBF super bantamweight champion when he beat the reigning title holder (from Japan) in Tokyo. This coming Friday night he defends his title against another Japanese fighter, Ryohei Takahashi, at Madison Square Garden in New York. The fight will be shown live coast to coast in the USA and also on here Sky Sports and their coverage starts at 2 am Irish time. The Irishman is the very strong favourite to win.

‘No deal’ could affect racing industry! Why would Brexit make it onto the sports pages? Well apparently if Britain crash out of the EU without any deal it could have immediate consequences for the horse racing industry. In the event of a ‘no deal’ the movement of live animals (which would include horses) would be directly affected and huge festivals such as Ascot, the Derby and all the other major classics would be affected. Just imagine if Gordon Elliott or Willie Mullins were not able to send their horses to Aintree or if Aidan O’Brien was not able to challenge for the classics this summer. It would also affect the show jumping and greyhound racing industry too…frightening stuff!

It was obvious that both sides had been practicing the new rules in training. There were loads of kickpasses. The kick-out from the 20-metre line cost Sligo a goal in the first half but that was a very easy mistake to make. The only new rule that had a big impact on the game was the ‘offensive mark’. During the course of the game players claiming the marks scored six points (four to Sligo). After the

game Anthony Cunningham stated that a couple of those ‘marks’ were very questionable and he is right when he says that that rule is very hard to police. Is the kicker outside or inside the ’45? All in all, the new rules did not really affect the game much and it was a high scoring and enjoyable affair but I wouldn’t like to make a judgement on just one game. I would be worried that the workload of referees

would become intolerable if all these new rules come in. It’s easy to be blasé about the proposals at this time of the year but in the heat of a huge championship game it could be very different. We have heard loads of opinions from players, managers and pundits in recent weeks. We should hear from referees too. The GAA will be meeting to review the proposals next weekend. It will be interesting to see what they do.

Ciarán Lennon moves possession on during Roscommon’s FBD League semi-final win over Sligo at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

A good start to Cunningham era

Anthony Cunningham (centre) confers with Iain Daly and Mark Dowd during Roscommon’s FBD League semi-final win over Sligo at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

It was a good start to the Anthony Cunningham era last weekend given the circumstances. To score 2-18 against any opposition was very satisfying and there were 11 different scorers too. There were some very good displays and plenty to build on. However, I hope that the injury to Sean Mullooly is not a serious one. He is a vital part of this team. Roscommon will also have to improve at midfield. Sligo got the better of that duel last Sunday and that kept them in the game right to the finish. The standard of opposition in Division One will be several levels higher than what we saw last Sunday if anyone needed reminding but it’s good to have another competitive game to play next Sunday. Galway will provide a stiff test ahead of what will be a massive game in Castlebar on Saturday week.

Ole’s revolution continues at Old Trafford

With Liverpool making serious tracks towards their first Premier League title in 29 years the goings on at Manchester United are not much of a concern to them. However, the transformation under Ole Gunnar Solksjaer is continuing. Last Sunday’s win against Spurs was the first real test for the Norwegian and although I would have to admit that United were a little lucky to win the game (they can thank De Gea) it’s clear that the players are all playing for the new manager and they all look happy to be out on the field of play. It just goes to confirm what most people thought of the José Mourinho reign. It was all about him and no one else. In my humble opinion the United board should just get on with it now. Give the job to Solskjaer and start planning for next season. It may be a bit of a stretch to see them qualify for the Champions League but if you said that to anyone six weeks ago it would have been deemed impossible. At the top of the table Liverpool are going along well and the win against Brighton at the weekend was just the type of victory that a team who wins championships have at this time of the year. I was looking at Liverpool’s remaining games and save for an away game against Manchester United and a Merseyside Derby against Everton, every other game is winnable. Remember that they can afford to lose a game and still win the title. Manchester City, on the other hand, must win every one of their remaining games and hope for a slip-up. It is definitely looking good for Klopp’s men. City were middling against 10-man Wolves on Monday night. They are a super side but they are still involved in four competitions and that could take its toll.

Former Manchester United striker, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, has so proved a revelation since taking over the reins at Old Trafford.

The future looks bright for Irish Rugby It was another unbelievable weekend for Irish Rugby. There were four great wins for the four Irish teams against very strong opposition. We have never had so many really talented rugby players in this country as we have at this present time. Ulster’s win against Racing ’92 was fantastic. What a player Jacob Stockdale is. His two tries were of the highest quality. Then we had Joey Carbery putting on a master class for Munster against Gloucester. It was his best ever display in a major game and he is turning into a real class act and a super understudy to Johnny Sexton. At the RDS, Garry Ringrose was the star of the show as Leinster dismantled Toulouse. The centre was rampant as the champions won really well. Then in Galway Connacht held on to defeat Sale and now they are in with a great chance of a home quarter-finals in the Challenge Cup. It was also a very special day for Denis Buckley who made his 150th appearance for Connacht against Sale and he played really well too. There were some lovely photos going around on Saturday night of Denis and his mother Mary after the game. To play so many top class games is a great achievement. On a more serious note, Joe Schmidt must be licking his lips at the prospect of picking a squad for the Six Nations and World Cup. These are really exciting times for Irish Rugby.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

SportsPeople BUCCANEERS Rugby Football Club Armagh gain revenge! City of Armagh avenged their All-Ireland League defeat last month by Buccaneers when they proved too strong for the Pirates in their Bateman Cup All-Ireland semifinal played in front of a big crowd at the Palace Grounds, Armagh, on Saturday. A depleted Buccs side gave a good account of themselves despite going down 29-13 to the physically stronger hosts.

Buccs win on the road! The Creggs U-13s paid a visit to The Sportsgrounds last Saturday for the Challenge Cup match between Connacht and Sale. Back row: Oisin Mullen, Roan Trundle, Leo O’Connor, Sean Allen, John Quinn, Josh Reddington, Harry O’Sullivan, Cian Escosio, John McGuinness, Jamie Betts, Ruari Kenny, Shayne Ward, James Molloy, and Lochlann Mulry. Front row: Cathal Maloney, Aaron McAteer, Luke Dolan, Jarlath Quinn, Rory Coyle, Conor Morris, Josh McCormack, and Eoin Brennan.

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs advance in Connacht Junior Cup Senior Rugby Connacht Junior Cup Round One: Creggs 32 Sligo 12. Creggs maintained their recent run of results with an excellent victory over a strong Sligo team in the first round of the Connacht Junior Cup at The Green on Saturday evening. After a scoreless opening quarter, hooker Maurice Buckley finally broke through for a vital try following some powerful mauling by the home pack. Shortly afterwards, a superbly placed kick by Shane Dowd unlocked the Sligo defence for winger Thomas Flynn to gather the ball at full speed and cross for a fine try in the right corner. Sligo responded with a series of attacks which yielded a try after a defensive mix-up close to the Creggs line. With halftime looming, out-half Shane Dowd cut through for a superb solo try to put Creggs 15-5 ahead but Sligo closed the half with

a converted try to reduce the deficit to three points. Maurice Buckley scored his second try in the 54th minute following a closein maul and Tom Oates crossed for another in the 67th minute as Creggs took control. In the final minute, Creggs scored a magnificent try with winger Chris Duignan crossing out wide. Duignan richly deserved his try as his defensive display was top class from start to finish. Creggs advance to the quarter-finals where they have a home game against Monivea on the weekend of February 9th. Creggs resume Connacht J1 League action with back-to-back games against Galwegians, one of which has been re-fixed from earlier in the season. First up is a trip to Glenina on Sunday, and then it’s back to Creggs the following Sunday. These are two difficult hurdles which must be safely negotiated before what could be the clash of the season on February 3rd against

Carol Brandon and Helen Brandon pictured at The Green at a recent Creggs game. Pic: Mick McCormack

league leaders Connemara in Creggs. Connacht J1C League: Oughterard 16 Creggs 15: Creggs’ development team travelled Sunday to play Oughterard in the Connacht J1C League last Sunday but came up just short. A tremendous tap tackle on Creggs’ Tommy Devine stopped the full-back just yards from the try line in the final play of the match to deny Creggs victory. The hosts led 16-0 at half-time, with a try by former lrish international Jack Clarke and three well struck penalties and a conversion by out-half Bartley Walsh. Creggs used the wind to good effect in the second half with astute kicking by scrum-half Matthew Browne driving his team forward. Prop-forward Brian Coady burst through for a fine try in the 59th minute and when Damien Nolan touched down following a scrum with ten minutes remaining, Creggs were right back in the game. However, Oughterard defended with great determination and theld out until David Hoare scored a try out wide to reduce the deficit to a single point in the 78th minute. Michael Farrell’s conversion from the touchline was narrowly wide and Oughterard survived the final onslaught to clinch victory. Creggs travel to Portumna next Sunday at 2.30 pm. Junior Interprovincial: Creggs will host the Connacht v Munster Junior Interprovincial on Saturday,

May 11th in what promises to be a wonderful end to the rugby season. Creggs head coach Pat Cunningham is a coach and selector on the Connacht team.

Youth Rugby Connacht U-17A League: Monivea 12 Creggs 14. Creggs had already guaranteed a semi-final spot before travelling to Monivea last Sunday but will be disappointed with their performance. Monivea started the game well and well worth their 12-0 half-time lead. Creggs regrouped and were back in the game seven minutes into the second half. Good work from Ronan Lambe, Kian Moran, Tiernan O’Sullivan and Ben Finnerty led to Aaron Lyons crossing in the corner. Mark Purcell converted from the sideline to reduce the deficit to 12-7. Creggs then took the lead with ten minutes remaining when Ciaran Corcoran went over in the corner. Purcell added the extras to make it 14-12. Creggs held out for the win and now look forward to a semi-final in two weeks probably against Ballinasloe. Meanwhile, Creggs have been drawn away to the winners of the Sligo and Corrib tie in the Connacht U-17 Cup quarter-finals which take place on March 10th. Connacht U-15A League: Creggs 26 Ballinasloe 19. Having already qualified for the semi-finals, Creggs played their last league

game against Ballinasloe last Saturday morning in Creggs, coming out with a hard-fought 26-19 victory. Tomas Tiernan got in for the opening try which was converted by DJ Hession after only five minutes. Ballinasloe then enjoyed a spell of possession and got in for a well-taken try to level the game after 15 minutes. Ciaran Purcell responded for Creggs to make it 12-7 but Ballinasloe finished the half stronger and got in for their second try to lead 1412 at half-time. Ballinasloe picked up where they left off and went over again seven minutes into the second half to lead 19-12. The impressive Ciaran Purcell got in for his second try eight minutes later after intercepting the ball from the back of a lineout and running 35 metres to the line. Tomas Tiernan got in for Creggs’ fourth and his second try under the posts, which DJ Hession converted five minutes from the end to give Creggs the win. Creggs will now have home Connacht League semi-final, scheduled for Satruday week (26th). If Buccaneers defeat Ballinasloe next weekend, they will provide the opposition. If Ballinasloe win, Creggs will face Galwegians. Creggs were drawn away to NUIG in the Connacht Cup on February 23rd. Connacht U-13 League: Monivea 28 Creggs 21. Creggs made a game of this having been 12-0 down after just ten minutes away from home. Tries

from John McGuinness and ‘man of the match’ Jarlath Quinn brought Creggs level midway through the first half. Creggs trailed 17-12 at the half but a try from Josh McCormack kept them in touch after the break. Two late breakaway tries would however seal it for Monivea. The day was to pick up for the Creggs lads who went on to The Sportsgrounds in Galway afterwards to watch Connacht beat Sale Sharks in Challenge Cup.

Youth Fixtures Creggs U-18.5s will prepare for their upcoming Connacht League Final when they play at home to Monivea/Westport in their final league game next Sunday at 12 pm in Creggs. The final will be against the semi-final winner of Corrib v NUIG. The Creggs U-14 Girls will play Corinthians away in Galway next weekend in the Connacht U-14 Girls Cup. Time TBC . Creggs U-16 Girls will play Ballina in Creggs in their cup the following weekend.

Mini Rugby Creggs Minis will visit Monivea next Saturday for a blitz. A text will be sent with all time details for what should be a good morning in Monivea. Creggs U-12s will play at half-time in the Pro 14 clash between Connacht and Cheetahs on Saturday, February 16th at 5.30 pm.

A four try 27-10 away win over Corinthians at Corinthian Park in the last 16 of the Connacht Junior Cup on Sunday came about from a lot of hard work and some wonderful attacking play from a young Buccaneers side, many of whom had been involved in the squad at Armagh the previous afternoon.

U-15s closer to semi-ﬁnals Buccaneers U-15s moved a step closer to qualifying for the Connacht League semi-finals with a 38-14 victory over an Oughterard side who were just below them on the league. After last week’s victory in Sligo Buccs started lackadaisically and, unfortunately, continued in that vein until half-time when some handling practice brought about a huge change in their play after the break.

U-14s lose out Buccaneers U-14s continued their Connacht League campaign in Athlone against a Connemara side whom they beat earlier in the year. A poor start was once again responsible for defeat as Buccs conceded two tries in the first 15 minutes and another breakaway just on the stroke of half-time. A rejuvenated team came out in the second half but could only score once to eventually go down 20-5.

Upcoming crunch ﬁxtures On Saturday, the Buccaneers firsts face their longest journey of the season when the All-Ireland League resumes after the festive break with a trip to Ballymena. Meanwhile, on Sunday, supporters will have to decide which of two key games they can watch as our J1s and U-20 teams take on the table toppers in their respective leagues.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

SportsPeople

New era off to a winning start! FBD Insurance League Semi-Final

ROSCOMMON

2-18

SLIGO

1-16

 SEAMUS DUKE

As opening games go this was a very good effort to start the Anthony Cunningham regime. Given the number of players missing since last year, to score 2-18 is a very creditable total against any opposition (with 11 different scorers), and the result puts the team into the FBD League final against Galway next Sunday. It will be another welcome com-

petitive game ahead of the league opener in Castlebar on Saturday week. On the plus side, there were very good displays from Niall Daly (first half) Enda Smith, Shane Killoran (Roscommon’s best player), Ciarán Lennon and subs Dara Pettit and Colin Compton. Some of the accurate kick-passing was a joy to watch and the attack took some great scores throughout.

But before anyone starts getting carried away there were negatives too. Sean Mullooly limped out of the match and must be a doubt for the start of the league now. We can ill afford to lose him. In addition, this was a very inexperienced Sligo side who pushed Roscommon all the way to the final few minutes of the game. A second quarter fade-out by Roscommon was also a worry. The manager and his selectors have plenty to work on ahead of a very busy and intense season. On a chilly and blustery evening Roscommon played against the strong wind in the opening half

Donie Smith hangs onto possession during Roscommon’s FBD League semi-final win over Sligo at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

and in the first quarter they racked up some great scores. Cathal Cregg (free) and Conor Daly had early points before Roscommon scored an opportunist goal in the tenth minute. Sligo goalkeeper Aidan Devanney kicked out from the 13-metre line instead of the 20-metre line. Referee Jerome Henry threw up the ball and Shane Killoran grabbed it and drove it to the Sligo net. By the 17th minute Roscommon were ahead by 1-4 to 0-2 and looking comfortable, but inspired by a magnificent display from Niall Murphy, Sligo came storming back into the game and they held Roscommon scoreless for almost 15 minutes. Murphy kicked a couple of monster points from way out, and their goal arrived in the 24th minute. After a poor kick-out from Darren O’Malley, Patrick O’Connor was fouled and Murphy drove the resultant spot kick to the net. Niall Kilroy and Shane Killoran scored late points in the half but by the break Sligo led by 1-10 to 1-6 with Murphy having accounted for 1-6. Roscommon were much better after the break and by the 48th minute they were level at 1-10 apiece with Ronan Daly, Donie Smith,

Kilroy and Caoileann Fitzmaurice on target. There was a touch of controversy about Roscommon’s second goal in the 49th minute. Enda Smith made a great run towards goal. He fisted the ball goalwards and it seemed to go into the net directly but the umpire indicated that a Sligo defender had touched it on its way and the goal was given. But even at that Roscommon were getting it hard to shake off a resilient Sligo. Sub Pat Hughes did very well for the Yeats County and on three occasions they came to within two points of the home side. But in the final five minutes of play Roscommon sealed the win helped by three fine points from sub Colin Compton and another from Donie Smith (a free). The good sized crowd enjoyed the high scoring nature of the game however Roscommon will know that the standard of opposition they are about to face starting on January 26th will be so different to what they faced here. There are still problems in midfield and if Mullooly is missing at full-back it will be hard to replace him. But to start the year with a win is always good.

Tadgh O’Rourke competes for a high ball during Roscommon’s FBD League semi-final win over Sligo last Sunday at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Teams and Scorers Roscommon: Darren O’Malley; Gary Patterson, Sean Mullooly, Conor Daly (0-1); Conor Hussey, Niall Daly (0-1), Ronan Daly (0-1); Tadgh O’Rourke, Caoileann Fitzmaurice (0-1); Niall Kilroy (0-2), Enda Smith (1-3, 1 free), Shane Killoran (1-1); Donie Smith (0-3, 1 free), Ciarán Lennon (0-1, a free), Cathal Cregg (0-1, a free). Subs used: Dara Pettit for Mullooly (29), Hubert Darcy for Lennon (53), Aonghus Lyons for Cregg (55), Evan McGrath for Patterson (56), Colin Compton (0-3, 1 free) for Kilroy (62). Sligo: Aidan Devanney; Nathan Mullen, Peter Laffey, John Francis Carr; Keelan Cawley, Paul McNamara, Gerard O’Kelly-Lynch; Paul Kilcoyne (0-1), Darragh Cummins; Seán Carrabine (0-2, frees), Patrick O’Connor, Luke Towey (0-3); Brian McGowan, David Quinn, Niall Murphy (1-8, 0-4 frees, 1-0 pen). Subs used: Adrian McIntyre for Cummins (44), Pat Hughes (0-2, 2 frees) for Quinn (47), Adrian Marren for McGowan (58), Nicholson for O’Connor (61), Alan McLaughlin for Towey (66). Referee: Jerome Henry (Mayo)

Cathal Cregg kicks a point against Sligo in the FBD League semi-final last Sunday at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

SportsPeople

TIME ADDED ON… How the new rules worked out… It was very noticeable that both teams had been practicing their kick-passing and Roscommon in particular played some great long passes throughout. Only once were the teams pulled up for four hand passes. The black card ‘sinbin’ was not used as there was no black card shown. No team was pulled for kicking a sideline ball backwards. However a mistake by the Sligo goalkeeper Aidan Devanney, who kicked out from the 13-metre line instead of the 20-metre line led directly to Roscommon’s first goal. Most notable was the ‘offensive mark’. There were six scores in the game that came from players fielding the ball in attack (four from Sligo and two for Roscommon). In all, I would say that the rules had little impact on the game.

Cunningham: ‘We’ve plenty to work on’  SEAMUS DUKE

New Roscommon manager, Anthony Cunningham, was understandably pleased to get his reign off to a winning start but cautioned that a lot of work still had to be done ahead of the National League. “You’d always be happy with a win but it’s a work in progress.

It was nice to get a good match. There’s a lot of tidying up from our point of view; we made a lot of mistakes so we have plenty to work on. “There were a lot of unforced errors and we’ll be looking at that strenuously during the week but we’re looking forward to playing Galway next Sunday,” he said. Cunningham was also concerned with the manner in which Ros-

common faded at the end of the first half. “We switched off, and that would be a concern. At any level, you can’t switch off to that extent, no matter where you’re playing. On the positive side, we scored freely and we scored well, and we worked very, very hard. “The spread of scorers was good but it’s early days, and, for us, it’s heads down for the week. Next

Sunday will be another day’s work to prepare for the league but it’s good to be in the final,” he said. The new rules are a work in progress too according to the Roscommon boss. “A few of the scores from the inside mark were questionable but it’s very hard to police for referees and hopefully they will tidy all that up (the new rules) in the next couple of weeks,” he concluded.

Red cards: Black cards:

Carroll set for new role Former Roscommon GAA Secretary Brian Carroll is set to become the new Vice-Chairman of the County Board this week. He is the only candidate nominated to replace Padraig Naughton who stepped down recently.

Durney takes U-17 reins Emmett Durney will be ratified as the Roscommon U-17 manager this week. The Clann na nGael man is a previous U-21 and minor selector.

Curran continues in charge

Stat Attack Wides:

GAA in brief…

Shane Curran will continue as the manager of the Roscommon U-20 team this year.

Roscommon 4 (3 first half ) Sligo 7 (4 first half ) None

Scór success for Roscommon clubs

None

mon 1 Yellow cards: Roscom (Enda Smith) Sligo 0

Roscommon won four provincial titles at the Scór finals in Castlebar last weekend: Kilglass Gaels (quiz), St. Dominic’s (figure dancing), Evan Gunn, Elphin (recitation), and St. Dominic’s (Léiriú).

Attendance: 1,500 Man of the Match:

Niall Murphy (Sligo)

Roscommon manager Anthony Cunningham in consultation with Mark Dowd during last Sunday’s FBD League semi-final between Roscommon and Sligo and Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Positive performance needed in FBD ﬁnale FBD League Final Galway v Roscommon on Sunday in Tuam at 1.30 pm  SEAMUS DUKE

This is a very welcome additional competitive game for Anthony Cunningham, his selectors and the players ahead of what is going to be a very tough league campaign which starts in Castlebar on Saturday week. If Mayo had won in Tuam last Sunday Roscommon would have had to travel to Castlebar two weekends in a row which was not a very appetising prospect. Now Roscommon can have a look at other systems and players as they ramp up their preparations. Galway pipped Mayo after a penalty shootout last Sunday and they fielded a strong team on the day. Sean Andy O’Ceallaigh will be full-

back again this week while Kevin Walsh tried out John Daly at centre half-back and he scored two points in an impressive display. Up front Michael Farragher of Corofin and Barry McHugh were impressive and it was noticeable that Shane Walsh and Damien Comer took no part against Mayo. Maybe we will see them in Tuam on Sunday. Of more interest to our readers will be the Roscommon team. Hopefully Sean Mullooly is not as badly injured as was first feared. He won’t play on Sunday. Gary Patterson and Conor Hussey are new recruits to the defence and they will surely get another run on Sunday. Evan McGrath and Dara Pettit also looked good

when introduced last Sunday while Tadgh O’Rourke and Caoileann Fitzmaurice will be up against it in midfield, but these are the games to see what our options are. The Smiths, Ciarán Lennon, Cathal Cregg, Shane Killoran, and Niall Kilroy all did well at various times at the weekend and I would like to see Colin Compton get a longer stint. He knows where the posts are and could be a big addition in attack. It’s not the result that matters in Tuam on Sunday. The performance is everything, and a further chance to get ready for MacHale Park on Saturday week. That’s what it’s all about. Prediction: Galway

Roscommon will face Galway once again in the FBD League Final this Sunday in Tuam having won the title against the Tribesmen at Dr. Hyde Park last year.

Roscommon People Friday 18 January 2019

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