2019.02.08 by Roscommon People

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SOCIAL PEOPLE

08 February 2019

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The Local Paper

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I WONDER HOW THE GAME’S GOING? Curiosity got the better of these two young lads when they attended Sunday’s Connacht Junior League rugby game in Creggs (see sports section). Picture: Michael McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

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

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

Bogus Callers My neighbour was recently burgled by an individual who called to her door purporting to be a representative of a well-known service company. He stole a small sum of money from her. A few days later a caller to my home told me that his car had broken down and he asked to use my telephone. I was suspicious of him and did not let him in. Are there any guidelines I should follow which may prevent me becoming the victim of a bogus caller? An Garda Siochana website contains comprehensive advice in relation to bogus callers. Distraction burglaries such as someone pretending to need to use your telephone for various reasons are one method used by burglars to trick their way into your home. Other such bogus callers represent themselves as employees of a service provider indicating that they need to check gas/ power / water supplies etc. If you are suspicious of any caller to your home then it may be helpful to follow the following Garda advice: 1. Look out the window 2. Ask for ID. Genuine callers will have no problem in providing photographic identification and organisational details. 3. Don’t be embarrassed to tell the caller to write and make an appointment. 4. Make sure your back door is locked before you go to the front door. 5. Have a viewer fitted in your door. 6. Have a door chain fitted and keep the chain on. 7. The basic rule is if you don’t know the person at your door, you shouldn’t let them in. 8. If anxious contact your local Gardaí.

People WATCHING With PAUL HEALY

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Great hits! Incredible clashes! Yeah, it was fairly serious alright. Serious? It was incredible! I’m glad you’re in such great spirits, I’m still sick that England turned us over. England? I was talking about Roscommon and Monaghan! Oh right. Anyways, explain to me about that Cox lad again…. Okay. Last time. His name is Conor Cox. He was born in Kerry. But his father was born in Loughglynn. So he wants to play for Roscommon. So he applied for a transfer. From Kerry to Roscommon… Well, from a club in Kerry to Eire Og in Roscommon, so then he’d be eligible for a county call-up. But he could only be selected by Roscommon after he’d played a championship game for Eire Og. And…? Our club championships are miles off…so Conor applied to join a Dublin club instead. St. Jude’s. But isn’t St. Jude the patron saint of hopeless cases? Or is it lost causes? Ah don’t mind that! Anyways, he didn’t go to

What we liked… We’ve always, always, had a very soft spot for the wonderful Lough Key Forest Park, near Boyle. Happy days as the facility this week won a Best Ireland’s Hidden Heartland Award at the Irish Tourism Industry Awards 2019.

What we didn’t like…

Such crimes are not common but the Gardai advise to be wary of strangers calling to your home. It should be noted that older persons are less often the victims of crime than their younger neighbours. 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

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St. Jude’s. What? He didn’t go to Dublin…? No. He got a transfer elsewhere. To Listowel Emmets. Eh…in Kerry? Yeah, it was a bit of a mystery tour alright. Anyways, it all worked out, as you saw on Sunday. A new Rossie! I didn’t realise there was a transfer market in the GAA… Well it’s limited enough… So who else could we get? Like I say, it’s limited! I think we should put in a bid for a few of those Dublin lads, and maybe for another Kerry lad or two. You just don’t get it… There could be a transfer window deadlineday special on Shannonside, like they do on Sky Sports, with Willie Hegarty hosting it and regional reporters all over the place. One in Kerry, one in Mayo, one in St. Jude’s, a few around Roscommon… Can I have a moment? What’s wrong with you? I just want to say a prayer to St. Jude. You’re a hopeless case…

Pic of the Week: Mucking around at last Sunday’s Connacht Junior 1A League match between Creggs RFC and Connemara at The Green in Creggs. Pic: Mick McCormack

The ‘Very Bad PR move of the Week’ Award What was Liam Neeson thinking? Promoting his latest film, the actor told a shocking story…of how he had once set out to kill a black man – any black man – after a friend had been raped. Neeson, denying he is racist, sought to recover after a massive backlash. He stressed that the episode happened about forty years ago, and that he made the comments this week in a particular context. The debate is raging all week –no doubt People readers have their own views.

Our Alternative Awards

In rugby, Ireland underperformed against a superb England in a weekend anti-climax. It’s a wake-up call, but I’ve every confidence Ireland will bounce back and remain a major force in this year of great possibilities. I’ve less confidence in some of the Irish sports media, who are setting new world records for having it both ways. The offending pundits have spent several months telling us how wonderful the Irish team is, that we’re realistic World Cup contenders (which I think we are) and how we’d beat England last Saturday. And, above all else, that we have cover in all positions! Then came Saturday’s deflating defeat. Now the rugby media know-alls are sagely telling us that Ireland are too predictable, and we suddenly don’t have sufficient cover in key positions! In the Sunday Indo, Eamonn Sweeney, who has been celebrating Irish rugby’s golden era in recent times, now mused that the World Cup has possibly come a year too late for Ireland! The headline on his article? ‘Only one Six Nations team can win World Cup – and it’s not us’. They say a week is a long time in politics; seems like it’s an eternity in rugby…

‘Sporting Achievement of the Weekend’ Award Damn right we’re giving it to the Rossies! Liverpool struggled against West Ham, Ireland pretty much flopped against England…sure, honourable mention to Leitrim footballers, and to Mayo (but no award) and okay, Wales launched a decent comeback in Paris. But Roscommon played for ten minutes with two men less than Monaghan…and won!

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople

INMO escalates nurses and midwives’ strike The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation announced an escalation in their strike earlier this week in response to what they described as “the Government’s refusal to meaningfully engage with the union”. Members of the organisation will take to the picket line once again today (Thursday) as the number of services on strike increases from 82 to 240. The organisation also announced further strike days on the 19th and 21st of February in ad-

dition to the already-announced strikes on the 7th, 12th, 13th and 14th. This Saturday (9th) will also see the INMO stage a national rally in Dublin in a bid to “secure safe staffing levels in the health service, through increases in pay to make the professions more attractive”. Staff members at Roscommon University Hospital and Portiuncula as well as Brothers of Charity services around the county will take part in today’s strike.

INMO staff pictured taking part in industrial action outside Roscommon University Hospital. Pic.: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople Councillor

PAUL HEALYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WEEK

Ivan Connaughton

A column by Roscommon People editor

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All week Honestly, these arrogant politicians (well, some of them)â&#x20AC;Świth their prowess at twisting logic, their habitual brazenness, their almost admirable verbal dexterity. Not wishing to pick on the usually very reasonable Deputy Colm Brophy, but the Fine Gael man really pushed my tolerance limits the other night. On the Tonight Show with Matt and Ivan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; doing a good job in the footsteps of the great Vincent â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Colm truly tested my patience. Yellow card: He tried to fob viewers off by claiming that the initial cost of the National Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital was â&#x201A;Ź983m. An indignant Matt Cooper reminded Colm that it was actually â&#x201A;Ź650m. Effortlessly seeking to sidestep Matt, Deputy Brophy insisted it was the bigger figure, thus implying that the subsequent costsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; overrun is not quite as horrendous as pesky journalists would have us believe. Black card: Next, Colm plays the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;What about the children and their parents?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; card. Straight-faced, Colm says we need this hospitalâ&#x20AC;Śand asks who will look parents in the eye and say otherwise? A red herring, of course. Red card (or second yellow): Colm confi-

dently wraps his contribution by saying that we must, yeah, we absolutely must, avoid any such cost overruns in the future. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m thinking: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;No, actually we should avoid any such cost overruns in the presentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. All week, government politicians used the same tactics. If you challenge them on the scandalous costs issue, as soon as possible they will move the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;debateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on and play their emotional trump cardâ&#x20AC;Ś â&#x20AC;&#x153;The real issue here is that we need to build this hospital. People have waited long enoughâ&#x20AC;?. No, the real issue here â&#x20AC;&#x201C; right here and right now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is that we need to address this costsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; monster. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pathetic. Time added on: I wrote above on Tuesday, I have still to digest Health Minister Simon Harrisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; doubtlessly deeply revealing, modest and apologetic appearance before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health on Wednesday.

Monday Speaking as a Leeds United fan, I think Liverpool â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;2018/2019 versionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; are a breath of fresh air. They play exciting football and have been a revelation this season. There is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;butâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;Śwhat was Jurgen Klopp

at the other night? I watched Liverpoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lame draw with West Ham, and was then bemused to see Klopp quite aggressively remonstrate with the referee at the full-time whistle. More than that, Klopp had a bit of a barney with West Hamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gentlemanly manager, Manuel Pellegrini. True, this sort of managerial over-reaction/ histrionics is commonplace, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s getting a bit nauseating. What makes Monday nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soap opera particularly odd is the fact that Liverpoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in a 1-1 draw â&#x20AC;&#x201C; was clearly offside. To be fair to Klopp, I imagine his embarrassing conduct on Monday night is down to sheer pressure, as the race for the title intensifies. When Mourinho was at Manchester United, there was no such excuse. Such behaviour from The Special One was just him being a bad loser/unsporting/grumpy/looking for an edge. Ditto when Arsene Wenger reigned at Arsenal. Klopp had no business behaving as he did on Monday night, but like I say, maybe the pressure is getting to him! And I guess he too is generally a breath of fresh air. What a pleasure it would be to see more managers behave without bias and with dignity and restraint after a game. Managers like Roy Hodgson and Chris Hughton set the example that others should follow!

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The Hyde on Sunday was wonderful. It was one of the best â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;league daysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in years. There was a substantial Monaghan support in the stands, which of course added to the atmosphere. Entirely reasonably, given their teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s status and their stunning win over Dublin the previous weekend, the Monaghan fans travelled in expectation. Roscommon fans, encouraged by our performance in wet and windy Castlebar, expected another resolute showing by Anthony Cunninghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very focussed team â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but few dared to contemplate a home win.

It was very cold. Prior to throw-in, three Monaghan fans changed into wet gear, adding something like an anglerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wet gear to what they were already wearing. A bit of trouble these lads had too, as they tried to complete their makeover. It was like a scene from Bruce Forsythâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Generation Game. The home defence was superb as Roscommon earned an exciting win. All credit to Anthony Cunningham, his backroom team, and those heroic players. The atmosphere in the final fifteen minutes was terrific. Black cards, red card, off-theball incidents, flare-ups, heart-stopping moments, good football, great passion, phenomenal effort by amateur sportsmen.

When the final whistle blew, the Roscommon fans reacted with an outpouring of emotionâ&#x20AC;Śhappiness, relief and pride merging. We completely forgot about the quite bitter cold which had certainly registered with us at the throw-in and irked us during the always tedious half-time break. That was then. Now, a great and somewhat unlikely win achieved, the cold meant nothing, no longer impacted. Warm hearts surpass mere cold elements. Now, we simply relished this precious statement of intent; heroic Roscommon had beaten high-flying Monaghan. A great league day. We stood proud in the Hyde and applauded Roscommon on their slow and savoured departure from the field.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople

‘Explore & Restore in Roscommon’ Takes place on 16th & 17th February Explore & Restore in Roscommon is a health and wellness weekend organised by Roscommon Town Team. The third Explore & Restore in Roscommon will take place on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th February 2019. Free health and wellness events will take place in many locations within the town and local surrounds. Healthy Ireland, through Roscommon County Council, make grants available to community groups in order to fund activities that empower communities to take action for their physical, emotional and mental health. Roscommon Town Team had an open call for local health and wellness providers to express their interest in participating in Explore & Restore. The result is a diverse schedule of workshops, classes, talks and events that highlight what is available locally for the community. Explore & Restore allows you to sample classes and hopefully inspire you to start something new such as yoga, mindfulness, pilates, spinning, barefoot walking, kayaking, or Capoeira. The range of events on offer cater for age groups from 4 years plus. Children can go to a workshop to learn about oral health, mindfulness or Tae-Kwon-Do, while teenagers

can attend spinning and movement workshops, and adults have a range of options including a vision board workshop, or an introduction to mindful moving meditation. Adults with mobility issues may like to explore chair yoga, or take part in music, dance and games run by Roscommon Sports Partnership. This year Roscommon Town Team have collaborated with local activist group Plastic Free Roscommon to host a number of sustainable living events as part of Explore & Restore. If you are interested in learning more about recycling, green living, green cleaning, zero waste shopping and sustainable diets then check out the sustainability events taking place in Gleeson’s Townhouse. Explore & Restore highlights the natural amenities we have in Roscommon and the relaxed pace of life we can all enjoy. It also displays many of the talented health and wellness providers and for one weekend, the community can sample their classes free of charge! Roscommon Town Team would like to thank Roscommon County Council for their support and Healthy Ireland for their funding. Brochures (printed on 100% recycled paper) with a full schedule of events and booking details are available from Roscommon Tourist Office and local cafes, restaurants, shops, and health centres. For more information please email roscommontownteam@gmail.com or telephone 087-2483877.

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Pictured at the launch of Explore & Restore in Roscommon 2019 at Aras an Chontae on Friday last were Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, Sarah Browne, Larry Brennan, Rita Oates, Cllr. Orla Leyden, Marian Keigher and Garda John O’Connor. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the launch of Explore & Restore in Roscommon 2019 at Aras an Chontae on Friday last were Sarah Browne, Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, Elizabeth Stobie, Julie and Ailbhe O’Donoghue and Cllr. Orla Leyden. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the launch of Explore & Restore in Roscommon 2019 at Aras an Chontae on Friday last were Julie O’Donoghue (Plastic Free Roscommon), Larry Brennan (Chairperson, Roscommon Town Team) and Sarah Browne (Explore and Restore committee). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Saturday 16th February Time Activity 10.00-11.15am Chair Yoga 11.00-12.15pm Everyday Mindfulness 11.00-11.30am Teen Spinning 11.30-12.45pm Over 55’s Yoga 11.40-12.10pm Teen Flexibility, Mobility & Core Strength

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For information contact Veronica on 086 864 9992 or email roscommontownteam@gmail.com or visit the Roscommon Tourist Office, Market Sq, Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople Historical Society lecture on TB This month’s meeting of the Co. Roscommon Historical & Archaeological Society will take place on Tuesday, February 12th in The Percy French Hotel, Strokestown. Following the meeting at 8.30 pm, a talk entitled ‘The White Plague – the silent terror of TB’ will be delivered by Eilish Feeley. TB, or ‘Consumption’, as it was commonly called, wreaked havoc on the Irish population in the late 19th century and early 20th century. Few families emerged unscathed from the epidemic. According to the Irish Red Cross, up to 10,000 young Irish adults died of the disease in 1904, with many deaths from TB going unregistered as families attempted to hide the perceived shame of the disease from society. Historical Society member, Eilish Feeley, is a certified genealogist and was awarded a Master of Arts in History of Family from the University of Limerick in 2018. As well as being a keen local historian, Eilish is secretary of the Mote Park Conservation Group. Her research interests include emigration and family history, DNA Research, Roscommon Quaker families and tenants of the Crofton Estate in Roscommon. All are welcome on February 9th. Admission for non-members is €5.

Local Forum to meet at REGARI The next Roscommon Local Forum is being held on Monday, February 11th from 6 pm to 8 pm at Regari Recovery College (the former Lodge building), adjacent to Roscommon University Hospital on the Athlone Road. A forum is a regular monthly meeting, the purpose of which is to gather the views and experi-

NEWS…at a glance

in the west Roscommon town since 2009. The final date for entries is March 9th when all entries should be with your local Comhaltas Branch secretary. Late entries will not be accepted. Fleadh entry forms may be downloaded from Facebook pages Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin 2019 and also from Comhaltas Bhaile Ros Comáin. Newcomers should read forms carefully before filling them in.

AFK Community Games return for 2019 The Athleague Fuerty Kilbegnet Community Games have returned this year. Draughts and chess practice is taking place in Fuerty Hall at 12.15 pm each Sunday (U-10s to U-16s). Meanwhile, the art, model making and handwriting competitions will take place in Athleague Community Centre this Saturday (9th) at 4 pm. Check out the AFK Community Games Facebook page for more information.

Castlerea Brass & Reed Band members pictured presenting the Pat O’Flanagan Memorial Shield to Breda Hanley, who is this year’s ‘Band Person of the Year’. Pictured (l-r): Niamh O’Flanagan (last year’s winner), Patsy McCahill (Chairperson), Breda Hanley (this year’s winner) and Richard Thompson.

ences of people using mental health services, their family members and carers to bring about positive change within the mental health service. All are welcome. If interested, please contact Colette Tuohy on 087-4148743 or colette.tuohy1@hse. ie.

Saturday Storytelling at Roscommon Library Saturday Storytelling for children aged 3 to 7 will take place in Roscommon County Library, Roscommon town this Saturday (February 9th) at 11 am.

Rose pruning talk at Ardcarne Garden Centres There will be a free ten-minute talk on rose pruning at Ardcane Garden Centres in Boyle and Roscommon town this Saturday (9th) at 11.30 am and 3 pm. All are welcome.

March 9th is closing date for Fleadh! This year’s Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin will be held in Ballaghaderreen over the Easter Weekend. This will be the first time the event has been held

Thank you from IWA Charity Shop The Irish Wheelchair Association Charity Shop on the Circular Road in Roscommon town would like to take this opportunity to thank the Roscommon People newspaper for highlighting their appeal for donations of shrugs and blankets from the general public. 48 elderly and wheelchair users in the Roscommon area were given a beautiful shrug or blanket, gift-wrapped and free of charge. Special thanks to all the hand knitters who created beautiful blankets and to the kind people who dug deep in their pockets and purchased new blankets as donations. The IWA charity shop witnessed great Christmas spirit among Roscommon people and also got to put a smile on the face of many elderly and wheelchair users. Thank you all!

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

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Information Evening at Feevagh NS Open Evening & Enrolment at

Feevagh N.S. Feevagh, Dysart, Co. Roscommon www.feevaghns.ie Parents and children are invited to come along to Feevagh N.S. on Monday, 18th February from 7.00 to 8.00pm to meet with staff and view our school & its facilities. If this date does not suit or should you have any enquiries prior to that date we may be contacted on 090-6622200 or feevaghns@gmail.com

Dance in aid of Lourdes Pilgrimage Fund Please support the Roscommon Deanery Fundraising Dance in aid of the Lourdes Assisted Pilgrimage Fund at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on March 8th. Music by Frank Nelson Band, Patsy McCaul & The Lancers. Admission €10.

Support group at Boyle Family Resource Centre A six-week closed support group for anyone whose life has been affected by a cancer diagnosis (past or present), covering topics such as mindfulness, managing stress and loss will take place in Boyle Family Resource Centre. It began on Monday, February 4th. Please contact 090-6625898 for more information.

Ballymurray National School Enrolment Evening

Thursday, 7th February at 7.00 p.m.

Our enrolment/information evening for parents will be held on Thursday 7th February 2019 at 7.00 p.m. We invite you to come along to view the school, its facilities and to meet the teachers. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have. You may contact the principal at any time before that date with any query you may have.

TEL: 090 6661217

E.: principal1.ballymurrayns@gmail.com

Feevagh National School is holding an enrolment and information evening on Monday, February 18th from 7 to 8 pm. We invite all prospective students and their parents to come along to view the school and its wonderful facilities and to meet our staff. Feevagh National School is a unique, well-resourced rural school with idyllic surrounds nestled in the Dysart countryside. We combine the academic excellence with personal care and social development of the individual students that attend. A catholic ethos permeates throughout the school creating a caring and nurturing environment with a warm welcoming atmosphere. We pride ourselves on our strong sense of community and aim to provide a cohesive education programme within a caring learning environment. We engage in a range of extracurricular activities and sporting opportunities to help our students grow into independent and responsible learners. Feevagh National School is not only steeped in tradition but is equipped with every modern learning resource and facility in our contemporary, newly-refurbished classrooms. Our highly-skilled and dedicated teaching staff support the individu-

Senior Pupils in Feevagh NS coding with lego.

al abilities and unique needs of our children which leads to improved learning outcomes. Our low pupil to teacher ratio provides ample opportunity for individual tuition ensuring that each child reaches their full potential in all areas of school life. Our small school and close-knit community also allows us to know each of our students personally. In addition to the provision of the prescribed primary school’s curriculum, a strong emphasis is placed on the value of a wellbalanced lifestyle in the school and children partake in a range of sporting and extra-curricular activities. Throughout the year, the school community participates

in a wide variety of activities, including sports training and competitions, Hip Hop dance classes, Pilates classes, athletics training, computer programme training, drama productions, visits to local areas of interest, etc. We pride ourselves on being a proactive Green School and are currently working towards our Global Citizenship Litter and Waste flag. In addition to this, we have Active School status and are working towards our second Active Schools Award. We have also received awards for the Junior Entrepreneur programme, the Blue Star programme and many Discover Primary Science and Maths awards. We are one of the few

schools in the country who have been awarded the Digital Schools of Distinction Award which aims to promote, recognise and encourage excellence in the use of technology in primary schools. Technology is integrated into everyday teaching and learning across all subjects in the primary school curriculum. For example, children make picture books in English and Gaeilge, complete project work in history, geography and science using IT, bring their creative stories to life and present science experiments by making them into videos. As well as this, all classes are introduced to coding and programming skills using apps and Lego kits to foster problem solving and team work skills. The school recognises that ICT is highly motivational and impacts positively on children’s learning experiences by adding fun and enjoyment to learning. Our school website at www.feevaghns.ie is testament to the digital capabilities of the school and highlights the wonderful work the children have been involved in throughout the current school year. You are cordially invited to come along to our open evening to experience Feevagh school first hand and learn more about what we do and what we can offer you and your child.

STRAIGHT TALKING

WITH SEAMUS DUKE

A hospital pass to beleaguered taxpayers Imagine you want to build a house. You sit down with a builder and agree a price. Say it’s €200,000. He goes off with his instructions and starts his work. A month into the job he calls and tells you that he made a mistake and that the house will now cost you €800,000 – and it may even go to €1 million. It’s just crazy beyond any explanation. That would be the end of that. That’s more or less what has happened with the National Children’s Hospital project that has caused so much controversy in the past month. The price has gone up to four or five times the original estimate in the space of six months or so. Why does this always seem to happen in this country when public money is being spent? I had to laugh out loud when I heard Taoiseach Leo Varadkar say at the weekend (and with a straight face too) that there would be people held accountable for the mistakes that have been made in connection with this project. What planet is he living on? When did anyone ever take responsibility for wasting taxpayers’ money in this country? I have the answer to that one. Never. The people who are responsible for this scandal will be treated the same way as everyone else who has squandered taxpayers’ money over the years has been. At best they will be moved sideways, but most will be promoted

– and all will retire with big fat pensions. We will have a ‘review’ to find out what happened, and that will cost an arm and a leg too. The review will seek to find out what mistakes were made so that we never make them again. What a laugh that is. Sure we never learn from our mistakes in this country. The infuriating thing about this scandal is that this hospital is badly needed and this project must go ahead. But that the costs

“

I had to laugh out loud when I heard Taoiseach Leo Varadkar say at the weekend (and with a straight face too) that there would be people held accountable for the mistakes that have been made in connection with this project. What planet is he living on?

were let spiral out of control to the extent that they have is quite unbelievable. The figures in connection with this scandal are staggering. It will be the most expensive medical facility ever built anywhere in the world. A hospital which is under construction in Adelaide in Australia is expected to cost €1.5 million per bed, which is considered very expensive. Not when our National Children’s Hospital comes into the reckoning though. At the moment the price is €3 million per bed – and rising. I am not a construction, medical or financial expert, but like every other ordinary person I am struggling to get my head around the scale of this scandal. In the Sunday Independent at the weekend there was a list of the estimated costs (so far). It was 80 million for this, 90 million for that, 55 million for the other…in a list of about 30 different headings. It was mind-boggling to look at in black and white. Remember, this is your money and my money. I am not naïve enough to believe that a top class Children’s Hospital could be built on the cheap. These projects are very expensive and this one has to be done, but we have cocked this one up big time. Work has already started and it’s too late to put the brakes on now. But people being held accountable? You must be joking. On to the next scandal.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople

Rose of Tralee to appear at Kilbride fundraiser!  DAN DOONER

2018 Rose of Tralee Escort of the Year, Paul Clabby, is looking forward to welcoming the Rose of Tralee, Kirsten Mate Maher to Kilbride at 12 noon this Saturday for his 5K fundraiser in aid of Adi Roche’s Chernobyl Children International charity.

The 2018 Rose of Tralee from Waterford, Kirsten Mate Maher, will be at Kilbride Community Centre, Roscommon this Saturday for a 5K fundraiser which is being organised by last year’s Escort of the Year, Paul Clabby. Paul is organising the event in order to raise funds for his upcoming trip to Belarus with Adi Roche’s Chernobyl Children International. “I will go over to Belarus in a voluntary capacity to provide companionship and comfort to the young people there. The funds raised this Saturday will go towards medical

supplies and resources for the orphanage. “I’m delighted that Kirsten has agreed to come along on Saturday, we had a Skype call to confirm it this week. There will also be an auction and raffle on Saturday night in Foxe’s Bar in Roscommon and an opportunity to meet eight of last year’s Roses and a number of Escorts. “Registration for Saturday’s 5K event takes place between 11 am and noon and members of the Roscommon senior team will be there ahead of their game on Sunday. It should be a great day so come along and support!” he said.

Ballyleague N.S. Enrolment 2019/2020 Thursday 14th February at 2:15pm If unable to attend please contact the school for enrolment pack

043 3321906

ballyleaguens@gmail.com

Come on the Rossies! Fans pictured at the Hyde on Sunday. Picture: Michael McCormack

Have your say on Heritage Ireland 2030 – new National Heritage Plan Heritage Ireland 2030 is a new and ambitious strategy for Ireland that will value and protect our built and natural heritage for future generations. Help shape this strategy. #heritageireland2030 Heritage Ireland 2030 is the Government’s commitment to a revitalised and refreshed National Heritage Plan. Heritage Ireland 2030 will recognise the vital role our heritage plays in our community, our economy and our society. Heritage Ireland 2030 will be a coherent, comprehensive and inspiring framework of values, principles and strategic priorities which will guide and inform the heritage sector over the next decade. Heritage Ireland 2030 will enshrine the shared responsibility of people, communities, businesses and local and national Government in protecting our heritage and ensuring it is cared for into the future. Heritage Ireland 2030 will help us enjoy, understand and care for our heritage. Your views on objectives and actions to deliver the vision are important – they will help to shape

government priorities for heritage for the next ten years. “If you are interested in our built, natural or cultural heritage, this is your chance to let the government know what you think. We need as many submissions as possible to make a good case for heritage at government level. Every submission will help” said Nollaig Feeney, Heritage Officer, Roscommon County Council. Have Your Say by 28th February 2019 * Have your say by email to heritageireland2030@chg.gov.ie. * Have your say by post to Custom House, Dublin 1, D01 W6XO * Have your say online http://www. chg.gov.ie/heritage/heritageireland2030/ * Drop into a submission workshop: Roscommon Library (Tuesday, 12th of February from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm); Ballaghaderreen Library (Wednesday, 13th of February from 10.30 am to 11.30 am); Boyle Library (Thursday, 14th of February from 1 pm to 2.30 pm).

MARTY McDermott Candidate for Local Elections 24th May – Roscommon LEA LOCAL ISSUES… I am available to discuss your concerns and to help with local community issues. Please do not hesitate to contact me… I look forward to meeting everyone over the course of the upcoming campaign – Marty

Tel. 087 3466064 Email: marty.mcdermott1@gmail.com /marty.mcdermott.184

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople St Angela’s College, Sligo announces an exciting suite of Postgraduate and Adult and Continuing Education Programmes for 2019 St. Angela’s College, Sligo, a College of the National University of Ireland, Galway, is a provider of University-level education and research in the North West of Ireland. The institution is both dynamic and fast-growing and recognises its strategic location in Sligo and the North West. The College is fully responsive to the local/regional needs and aware of its contribution not only to University-level education but to the social and economic development of the region. “The College is committed to making sure that the quality and relevance of our programmes are of the highest level” explains College President, Dr. Anne Taheny. She continues: “We are proud to offer the only University-level education here in the North West and our range of Postgraduate/ part-time programmes allows flexibility for those working or with family commitments”. St. Angela’s College, Sligo, is founded on over 400 years of education tradition. This is a tradition which values academic excellence, and there is a strong community environment which is recognised for its friendly, caring, atmosphere characterised by respect for the individual. St. Angela’s College, Sligo, has a well-deserved reputation for delivering high-quality programmes at both Undergraduate and Postgraduate levels across all of its the academic departments. The Department of Nursing, Health Sciences and Disability Studies has been actively involved in Postgraduate nurse education since 2002. The programmes developed and delivered by the department pay due cognisance to the needs of the ever-changing health service and those of prospective students for professional development purposes. All programmes are primarily delivered in a blended learning format which allows stu-

dents to study at a time and pace suitable to them. The Home Economics Department at St. Angela’s College provides high quality postgraduate and continuing education programmes that are tailored to meet the specific needs of learners. As part of its commitment to quality assurance the Department reviews and evaluate all of its programmes. Consequently, the Department responds proactively and positively to existing and emerging needs of the education sector, the food and fashion industry and the community, both regionally and nationally. The Education Department at St. Angela’s College, Sligo has a proud tradition of providing a range of high quality, innovative programmes in the areas of teacher education, special educational needs, management in education, religious education & theology, education and the law. In keeping with St. Angela’s College’s mission, the Department’s committed, innovative and progressive staff are constantly initiating, developing and modifying programmes to respond proactively and positively to the needs of the education sector. The Education Department offers a range of programmes at Certificate, Diploma, Undergraduate and Postgraduate levels, as well as offering an Access Programme (Diploma in Foundation Studies) and Access Schools’ Programme. The Centre for Lifelong Learning is a resource for the whole community both nationally and internationally. The Centre for Lifelong Learning provides a range of educational programmes and skills training within our state-of-the-art facilities overlooking Lough Gill. The Centre offers a range of courses relevant to healthcare, business, voluntary and community organisations and to the general public.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

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Phone: 085 819 1864 Email: kilbridesupplies@gmail.com

Happy Roscommon fans at the Hyde!

li k N.S. Glinsk

Pictures: Mick McCormack

Glinsk, Via Castlerea, Co. Galway

ENROLMENT EVENING

On Monday, 18th February 2019 at 7.00 – 8.00 p.m. Parents are invited to come along with their child to view the school, its facilities and meet the teachers. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have.

Phone: 094 9655257 E-mail: glinskschool@gmail.com Website: www.glinskns.ie If this time is inconvenient for you, please contact the school to make alternative arrangements.

Enrolment Afternoon for new entrants for September 2019

TARMON NATIONAL SCHOOL

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CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON on Wednesday 13th February from 2.15pm-4.00pm Child and Parent/Guardian invited to attend.

If you are unable to attend please contact the School Secretary on 094-9621143/087-2261364 or email: tarmonns@eircom.net for an enrolment form.

Free computer classes in Athlone Free computer classes will take place in Athlone for anyone interested in learning in an easy to understand way in a friendly learning environment. The course is absolutely free and designed for those who would like to learn how to use a computer. There will also be useful advice for day-to-day tasks on the Internet such as conducting online searches, safe shopping online, sending and receiving emails, basic computer skills and much more. No previous computer experience is necessary and computers will be provided. All are welcome. If interested or would like more information, contact Peggy on 0867325840. Businesses: Reach your B target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople

Áine wins DCU scholarship… Áine Mullins, former student of Abbey Community College, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, has been presented with a €500 Academic Scholarship to study at DCU in recognition of her achieving more than 550 points in the Leaving Certificate. Over €60,000 worth of scholarships were presented to fresher students at DCU. Awardees were joined at a special presentation ceremony at the Helix by their parents and former school principals and teachers. Each student received a commemorative certificate and the school principals/ teacher were presented with a plaque to display in the school marking the significant achievement of their past pupil. The DCU Academic Scholarship Awards were presented to 128 students from throughout Ireland on achieving more than 550 CAO points at Leaving Certificate or equivalent.

Roxboro NS DERRANE, ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: 090 - 6625703 website: www.roxborons.ie

Email: roxboroschool.ias@eircom.net

OPEN EVENING Monday, February 11th at 7.00pm We invite parents/guardians to our

Enrolment/ Information Evening

Come along to see the School and meet the Staff PRINCIPAL’S ADDRESS 7.30pm Enrolment Forms available at the Open Evening or by contacting the school Closing date for applications is February 28th, 2019

Áine Mullins, former student of Abbey Community College, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, has been presented with a €500 Academic Scholarship to study at DCU. She is pictured with Professor Brian MacCraith, President of DCU; David Harding, school principal, and Professor Anne Sinnott, Executive Dean, DCU Business Studies.

Roxboro NS is a co-educational, Catholic Primary School which strives to provide a well-ordered, caring, happy and secure environment where the intellectual, spiritual, physical, moral, emotional and cultural needs of the pupils are identified and nurtured

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Advertoiral ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Enrolment evening at Ballagh National School on Tuesday 12th Ballagh National School, Ballagh, Kilrooskey, is a mixed primary school located just 8km from Roscommon town. Our homely school community offers students a broad and holistic education

Ballagh N.S.

that is firmly rooted in Christian values in a caring and nurturing environment. This sense of community is a central feature of life in Ballagh National School. We know each one of our students

Kilrooskey Co. Roscommon

Enrolment Evening Tuesday, 12th February 2019 From 6 – 7pm

personally, thus ensuring that each child reaches their maximum potential. As a learning community we aim to prepare students for life beyond primary school. We have high expectations for all our students in all areas of school life. We pride ourselves on our interest in the STEM subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. We find ourselves in the unique position of becoming one of only 414 schools nationally to have achieved Digital School of Distinction status. On a daily basis, technology is integrated into teaching and cooperative group work sessions. Our students are safe and happy. They are encouraged to develop their own individual talents – art, music, song, drama and dance – all of which are an integral part of cultural life in Ballagh. Students can participate and compete in a broad range of sports and physical activities and we are delighted with our new facility – our state-of-the-art Astro Turf pitch. We have regular soccer, Gaelic and rugby training, and we take part in various blitzes and competitions throughout the year. We are very fortunate at Ballagh NS to have a thriving school garden. The children are actively involved in maintaining the garden and at harvest time, each family is awarded with an abundance of vegetables. We have a very active and supportive Parent Association who do great work and are on hand to help out at all school functions.

If you are considering enrolling your child in Ballagh National School for September 2019 or 2020, we invite you to come along with your child, to view the school and its facilities and meet the teachers. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have. If this date does not suit, please contact the Principal, Mrs. Ruth O’Connor to make alternative arrangements.

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

Ballagh NS pupils in their impressive Astroturf Pitch

If you are considering enrolling your child in Ballagh National School for September 2019 or 2020, we invite you to come along with your child, to view the school and meet the teachers. We look forward to welcoming you on Tuesday, the 12th of February 2019 from 6-7 pm. If you have any queries please feel free to call Ruth O’Connor on (090) (6625884). Email: ballaghns1.ias@eircom.net. Website: www.ballaghns.ie

Emma, Anthony, Rebecca, Niamh, Sophie, Michéal & James busy at work in the school garden in Ballagh NS

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople

Zero Waste Market at Gleeson’s Townhouse A Zero Waste Market will take place on Sunday, February 17th from 12 noon to 5 pm in Gleeson’s Townhouse as part of Roscommon’s Explore & Restore Weekend. On offer will be a wide range of zero waste, reusable, plastic free and more sustainable alternatives to disposable, overly-packaged, and single-use everyday items. As the market is zero waste, customers will be asked to bring their own reusable bags and containers such as glass jars, paper bags, takeaway containers or anything they have that can be repurposed and filled with purchases. Some of the products for sale will include pack-

age-free, loose groceries, soap bars, shampoo bars, children’s clothing, cloth nappies, reusable wipes, slings, knitwear, reusable coffee cups, stainless steel reusable bottles and containers, edible straws and plates, eco crafts and bamboo toothbrushes. The market is being organised by Plastic Free Roscommon and is supported by Roscommon County Council, Roscommon Town Team, Gleeson’s Townhouse, Roscommon Tidy Towns and Kilteevan Tidy Towns. Further information is available on Facebook or email: plasticfreeroscommon@gmail.com.

A BRIGHTER HOME. A BRIGHTER FUTURE. INTRODUCING OUR NEW ATHLONE DEALER Darren Martin Senator Windows, Unit 3 Centre Court, Blyry Business Park, Athlone, Co. Westmeath N37 XF89 Telephone 090 647 4685 Mobile 085 875 7251 | senatorwindows.ie

Ulster Boys Golf Championship winner Thomas Higgins is pictured with Eugene Cummins (the CEO of Roscommon Co. Council) and Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council at a civic reception in Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople PUBLIC NOTICES

Man arrested in connection with Strokestown investigation

Tidy Towns & Amenity Grants Scheme 2019

A man in his 50s was arrested in Co. Longford yesterday (Wednesday) as part of an ongoing Garda investigation into alleged incidents at Falsk, Strokestown before Christmas. Gardaí confirmed that follow-

ing a search of a house in the Killoe area of Co. Longford a man was arrested and was detained at Castlerea Garda station under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act 1939.

He is the fifth person to be arrested as part of investigations into alleged criminal incidents at a house in Falsk Strokestown. Two men are already before the courts in connection with the investigation.

Roscommon County Council is currently accepting applications under the Tidy Towns & Amenity Grants Scheme 2019

Applications will be accepted from: - Tidy Towns Associations - Local Development Groups - Sub-Aqua Groups Funding is available for eligible small scale capital amenity projects. Please note that it is important that all sections of the Scheme are read in full before completed application forms are submitted. Application Forms and details of the Tidy Towns & Amenity Grants Scheme are now available from: Community & Enterprise Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon F42 VR98 Tel: 090-6637181 E-Mail: mkeane@roscommoncoco.ie Application Forms can also be downloaded from: www.roscommoncoco.ie CLOSING DATE for receipt of completed applications is: 5.00p.m. on Friday, 1st March 2019 Majella Hunt Director of Services Roscommon County Council

Council now accepting applications for funding under the Tidy Towns and Amenity Grants Scheme 2019 Roscommon County Council is currently accepting applications for funding under the Tidy Towns and Amenity Grants Scheme 2019. Funding will be made available to Tidy Towns Associations and Local Development Groups to help them to carry out small-scale amenity projects. Roscommon County Council will prioritise the Tidy Towns Associations who enter the National Tidy Towns Competition during 2019 in order to support their ongoing work. Local development groups who carry out small-scale local enhancement or amenity works but do not enter the National Tidy Towns competition will also be considered for funding. Due to the limited amount of funding available, large-scale capital projects cannot be con-

sidered for funding. Applicants should be aware that payment will only be made in respect of eligible, approved projects on receipt of valid vouched expenditure and confirmation that proposed projects have been completed. The maximum grant payable will be the amount allocated or 75% of the value of invoices submitted, whichever is the lower. Grants will be payable retrospectively. Successful applicants will be required to ensure that their tax and insurance affairs are in order and that they have evidence of same. Roscommon County Council recognises the benefit of this scheme for local communities and also recognises the amount of work that is undertaken by local communities each year. It is important that all

applicants make themselves familiar with the terms of the scheme to ensure their eligibility prior to making an application. The closing date for completed applications is 5 pm on Friday, 1st March 2019. It is intended that decisions in relation to funding will be made at the March meeting of Roscommon County Council and that all groups will be notified thereafter. Further information, application forms and schemes are available from: Community & Enterprise Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon F42 VR98. Tel: 090-6637181 Email: mkeane@ roscommoncoco.ie Application forms can also be downloaded from: www.roscommoncoco.ie

Hopkins: ‘Hospital projects are safe’ Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins says that enabling works on a new 50-bed ward at Portiuncula Hospital will commence this year. Speaking in the Seanad on Wednesday, Senator Hopkins described the project as “shovel-ready” and said there was an urgent need for it to progress. Responding to Senator Hopkins, Minister of State Jim Daly confirmed that tender documents were being prepared with a view to progressing the procurement process to begin an enabling works contract

this year. The Fine Gael Senator also confirmed that funding is being put in place this year to begin the design process on the Sacred Heart Hospital project in Roscommon. Senator Hopkins said: “The HSE have confirmed to me that it is expected construction on the Sacred Heart Hospital project will commence in late 2020/ early 2021. The project includes the construction of a new 50-bedded residential care centre to replace existing accommodation as well as further upgrades to the

rest of the facilities at the site”. Her comments come after Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy had expressed “serious concern” over the future viability of both the Portiuncula and Sacred Heart Hospital projects due to the controversial projected overspend on the new National Children’s Hospital. Deputy Murphy said that Tanáiste Simon Coveney’s response to him in the Dáil had been unsatisfactory. Deputy Murphy said: “It is imperative that these vital capital projects in this

region go ahead. “Commitments were given in relation to the multimillion project at the Sacred Heart Hospital prior to the 2016 General Election but two years on we are not much further along. This multi-million euro project was announced back in January 2016 and was due to be completed in 2021. “Commitments in relation to these major capital projects in this region need to be honoured. We need a health service that is fit for purpose for everyone no matter where they live,” concluded Deputy Murphy.

Roscommon/Athlone PTAA news ///////////////////////////////////

Talk on drugs and substance abuse The Roscommon/Athlone PTAA activities year is now in full swing. It recently held its annual fundraising raffle draw. Proceeds from this draw are used to finance the various activities throughout the year. The winners in the draw were: 1st prize (€500): Alex Fayne; 2nd prize (€200): Pauline Donnelly; 3rd prize (€75): Ashling Moran; 4th prize (€75): John Delaney; 5th prize €50 (Joe Kilroe); 6th prize (€50): James McLoughlin. Many Primary and Secondary schools in our region are taking part in the Essay Competition. A

winner will be chosen from each school and the top three in each of three categories – Primary, Junior and Senior – will go forward to the Connacht stage of the competition. On Thursday night, February 7th at 7.30 pm in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon, we will host a talk on Drugs and Substance Abuse for the pupils in our primary schools who are to receive their Confirmation this year and also for their parents and teachers. The speakers will be Darren Butler and David Conway from the Irish Bishops Drug Initiative. Parents

and children will be spoken to separately on alcohol and drug abuse. All Confirmation pupils and their parents from our region are invited to attend. We will also be offering an Art competition to all our primary schools. A prizegiving ceremony will be held for both the art and essay winners in May. Our annual dinner dance will be held this year in the Abbey Hotel on Sunday, April 7th with the meal served at 5.30 pm. Music afterwards by Carmel McLoughlin. Tickets are available from any of our centres.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople

Public meeting on battery facility tonight

St. Mary’s NS KNOCKCROGHERY Tel. 090 66 61963

Open Evening

 DAN DOONER

A public meeting will take place tonight (Thursday) at 7.30 pm in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen to discuss the proposed battery storage facility planned for the town. Roscommon County Council has recently granted planning permission for the facility to be located at Tonroe, Ballaghaderreen, which is close to the Kilcolman housing estate. Some residents of the estate have expressed deep concerns regarding the safety of such a facility. The County Council has granted permission for ten battery storage containers and 20 coolers to be located at the site. An Bord Pleanála has confirmed that the deadline for an appeal against the development has passed. Local Sinn Féin Councillor Michael Mulligan said local residents in the area are angry. “Residents from the area put in a submission (ob-

on THURSDAY 7th FEBRUARY 2019 from 6.00 – 8.00pm

Cllr. Michael Mulligan, Jimmy Cogan, Cian O’Connell, Cameron McKenna, Angela Beirne, Brenda McKenna and John F. Horan at the gate of the proposed battery storage facility site at the back of Kilcolman Estate in Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

jecting to planning) and in the submission was that it was toxic and a fire hazard, and of course the devaluation of property. It was a good, detailed submission but it was turned down. In the same month (last July) Longford County Council refused planning for a similar facility on the same grounds.

“It’s too near houses; it’s beside a very big housing estate, and there’s only one way in and out and the roads wouldn’t be the best, if anything was to ever happen,” he said.

St. Mary’s National School invites you to come along with your child to view the school, its facilities and meet the teachers We will be happy to answer any queries you may have If this date does not suit, please contact the Principal to make alternative arrangements

St. Mary’s National School Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Tel: (090) 6661963 Email: knockcroghery.ias@eircom.net Website:knockcrogheryns.scoilnet.ie/blog/

RIGHT: Cllr. Michael Mulligan at the proposed site at the back of Kilcolman Estate, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Pupils from Ballyforan N.S. enjoying their time working on a project with our artist Frances McGonigle, thanks to Roscommon County Council through the Artist in Schools Programme.

Alma from AgriKids speaking to our infants on the importance of Farm Safety.

Sports Gaelic Football Hurling/Camogie Rounders Handball Basketball Swimming Athletics

Pupils from Ballyforan N.S. enjoying their time working on a project with our artist Frances McGonigle.

School Schemes Healthy Lunch Scheme Book Rental Scheme

Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon. Active School Status School Concert Quizzes (Cumann na mBunscol, Credit Union, etc) Heritage Workshops Green Schools Programme Aistear - learning through play Educational Trips Classrooms full resourced with interactive whiteboards and recent invstment in I.T. has ensured access to laptops Strong Community Links

(090) 6622300 ballyforan@eircom.net @BallyforanNS Pupils making bird feeders with Michael Bell

Pupils on a mini beast hunt.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople

€15.9m roads boost

A €15.9m investment programme for 2019 has been announced for regional and local roads throughout County Roscommon by Shane Ross, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport. Local politicians say this funding is a 16% increase on 2018, and includes funding for restoration and improvements works on roads across County Roscommon as well as €300,000 for bridge rehabilitation works and €285,000 for safety improvement works. Independent TD Denis Naughten said: “The main priority in allocating this funding to Roscommon County Council has been to maintain the road surface and improve safety of the road network”. Among the bridges that will benefit from rehabilitation works are: Ardass, Castlerea; Leamore, Ballymoe; Clooncoran, Ballinasloe; Carrowbehy, Castlerea and Garrynagowna, Athlone. Meanwhile, the following areas are to benefit from safety improvement works: Cloonfad Junction, Oldtown; bend at Ballymartin, Roscommon; junction at Carrownamorheeny, Elphin; Gortnasillagh, Kilmurray; road beside Elphin cemetery; widen section of road at Hillsend/Cloonburren, Oldtown; Sheegeeragh, Tulsk; Ballyroddy, Elphin; Grranlahan, Ballinlough; bend at Gorteencloogh, Athleague; Garryglass, Scramoge; and the foot-

path at Station Road, Cortober. Fine Gael Senator Frank Feighan welcomed the news. He said: “Recent extreme weather events have had a major impact on the regional and local road network and this funding will see essential maintenance and improvements carried out”. Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins said the announcement is a positive boost for Co. Roscommon. She added: “The increase in allocation of roads funding for the county this year is very positive and marks a 16-17% increase. The N5 project has recently been approved by An Bord Peanála. It is critical that we see this project progressed as quickly as possible in order to improve safety along this busy route”. Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice welcomed the funding for Roscommon and Galway, but called for funding in both counties to be returned to pre-recession levels. “Allocations for the western region as a whole need to increase, as there are a number of roads with substandard surfaces which present a safety risk moving forward. “I will continue to campaign for additional monies to be made available to communities under the Community Involvement Scheme, as well as for non-council roads under the Local Improvement Scheme,” Deputy Fitzmaurice concluded.

…but Connaughton slams ‘unfair’ treatment of South of county Cllr. Ivan Connaughton has welcomed the news that €15,901,650 will be allocated for roads, bridges and flood relief in Co. Roscommon – but says the Athlone area has been unfairly treated. He highlighted an allocation of €30,000 for works on the L7127 at Araghty, Athleague, €30,000 for the removal of trees near Cloonfad, €30,000 for the widening of the L7607 near Moore, €40,000 for bridge works at Garrynagowna, Athlone and €30,000 for works at Clooncoran, Ballinasloe. Cllr. Connaughton said: “While

the above allocations are very welcome, the overall division of funding for roads in the Athlone Local Electoral Area falls short of what is required yet again this year. Despite an additional €500,000 being received in late 2018, the condition of some roads in south Roscommon are deplorable and this year’s allocation is €5 million short of what is required to tackle the serious problem that exists. “Roscommon County Council will receive in the region of €11.5 million for road restoration, surface dressing and road main-

tenance in 2019. South Roscommon roads will only receive less than 25% of this figure and the remaining 75% will go to the other two municipalities. “For years, this is contentious between all of the 18 county councillors during the budget process annually. After the local elections, it is up to all councillors elected in the Athlone LEA not to support any alliance taking control of the council for the fiveyear term unless the allocation of funds is divided evenly between the three municipalities. “Many south Roscommon roads

have deteriorated from flooding (2009 and 2015), snow (2018) and other severe weather events together with reductions in road allocations from 2008 to recent times. “The slight increase in recent allocations is not sufficient for the upkeep of our roads from Donamon to Shannonbridge. It is totally unfair to those paying their local property tax, commercial rates, vehicle registration tax and road tax in south Roscommon and if re-elected in May, I will only support the equal distribution of funds to municipalities”.

Shanagher welcomes ‘litter police’!  DAN DOONER

The Chairperson of Roscommon Tidy Towns, Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, has welcomed this week’s announcement that households not using authorised bin collection services will be inspected in a clampdown on fly-tipping around the country. The new initiative will see local county councils provided with Eircodes for those using licensed bin collection companies and TV Iicence-style inspectors visiting households which aren’t signed up with collectors in order to ascertain how rubbish is disposed of. Households who use civic amenity sites to dis-

pose of rubbish will have to provide proof of this by showing documentary evidence. Those suspected of not using authorised services or amenity sites will receive €75 fixed penalty notices and persistent offenders could face fines of up to €2,500. Cllr. Shanagher said she hoped the new measures would curb the scourge of fly-tipping in Co. Roscommon. “Unfortunately, our countryside is blighted with illegal dumping and the people who do this are very clever and no proof is left behind (linking offenders to the litter). “If people dispose of the litter legally then they have nothing to fear and

will just need to supply proof that they are using an authorised bin service or one of the county’s four amenity sites”. As for bin sharing with other family members or neighbours, Cllr. Shanagher said that this would be acceptable as long as bin owners are willing to agree to any arrangement in writing. “Last Christmas we picked up nearly 30 bags of rubbish near Mote Park. Why should Roscommon Tidy Towns or County Council spend time and money doing this? We also found electrical items and other items which can be disposed of free at the council’s amenity sites,” she said.

Cllr. Shanagher added that it was up to consumers to “stop and think” before making purchases which may contain excess packaging. While she said that increased monitoring of litter disposal would result in Roscommon County Council saving money for other projects, she admitted that more could be done to promote the use of civic amenity facilities by the council. “Yes, we need to promote the use of Roscommon County Council’s amenity facilities. Maybe the council could be doing more to highlight the availability of blue refuse bags and booklets. They can be purchased at local

shops and at the Environmental Office in Aras an Chontae. “It’s a good option because it means you can

fill up your car for just €3.50 and bring rubbish, recyclables, electrical products and even paint to civic amenity centres”.

(Located in Roscommon, Ballaghaderreen, Boyle and Castlerea and open on Monday, Friday and Saturday from 8 am to 4 pm).

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople HSE WEST ROSCOMMON COMMUNITY SERVICES

ARE YOU EXPECTING A BABY? ANTE NATAL CLASSES consisting of four sessions are being held at: Venue:

Education Centre, Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon.

Date Commencing: Monday 11th February 2019 Time: 2pm – 4pm CLASSES ARE FREE PARTNERS ARE WELCOME BOOKING PRIOR TO CLASSES IS ESSENTIAL For Further Information and booking, contact: Ms. Michelle Connaughton, Clerical Officer, Public Health Nursing Department, Roscommon Community Care Phone: 090 6637582

CONCENTRATION…! It was a case of ‘all eyes on the action’ for these supporters at the Roscommon v Monaghan game at Hyde Park on Sunday! Picture: Mick McCormack

Cloontuskert National School are hosting an Open Afternoon on Friday 15th Cloontuskert National School are hosting an Open Afternoon on Friday, 15th of February between 2 pm and 4 pm. Our school is a mixed, Catholic primary school, located in the village of Cloontuskert, approximately 4km from Lanesboro and Ballyleague. A private bus service is available to transport the children to and from the school or to the local afterschool study in Lanesboro. Speaking about Cloontuskert

NS, Principal Padraig Connerton states: “Although we are a small school, we work diligently to provide a broad and holistic education in a nurturing and caring environment. We take great pride in knowing all of our students personally and strive toward assisting each of them in reaching their full potential. There is a strong sense of community spirit here and a high level of cooperation between staff, pupils

and parents. “In our school, we embrace the Aistear framework and have adapted it for use throughout the school. Children are encouraged to develop their skills of oral language, writing, reading and numeracy through playful and positive interactions in a well-planned learning environment. We are fully equipped for this approach with exciting new resources available to all teachers

Cloontuskert NS Cloontuskert, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon

OPEN DAY Friday, 15th February From 2pm to 4pm

Cloontuskert NS is a mixed, Catholic primary school, located in the village of Cloontuskert, less than 4km from Lanesboro and Ballyleague. A private bus service is available to transport the children to and from the school or to the local after-school study in Lanesboro.

to ensure its success within the school. Many of our Aistear themes are brought to life using a variety of methodologies such as the use of external speakers and school trips. In the past year, the Junior Room enjoyed a visit to Ireland West Airport to coincide with the travel theme, and had a very exciting visit from the ‘Tooth Fairy’ who spoke to the children about the importance of healthy teeth and how to mind them. “Cloontuskert N.S. is a hive of activity, with the children participating in a broad range of educational endeavours such as the Junior Entrepreneur Programme, debating competitions, Safer Cycling, Food Dudes, camera club, History Trails, Essay Competitions, Mangahigh and Science Fairs, to name but a few. We take part in the Lanesboro Community College, SciFest competition every year and have won it a number of times. “ICT is an integral part of everyday life in our school. Classes have access to and are actively encouraged to use IT where appropriate. The children are very competent in this regard as they attend computer lessons every year. “The arts are well catered for in the school with the children playing a wide variety of instruments such as the tin whistle, keyboard, drums and guitar. Music lessons take place every week under the expert guidance of our music teacher Mr. Whelan. The children’s many and varied talents are apparent during

If your child is due to begin school in Sept 2019 or Sept 2020, please come along to our Open Day to meet with the staff and see what our school has to offer. Everyone is Welcome For further information, please contact the school on 043 3321817 Email: cloontuskertns@eircom.net • www.cloontuskertns.ie

SciFest 2018

Christmas Carol Service

Visiting Knock Airport

our Christmas plays, concerts, musicals and other school productions”. Sport “Sport also plays a central role in Cloontuskert National School. Work is currently underway on our new Astroturf Pitch and we expect it to be ready for use by early March. We also have a basketball court and purpose-built playground. We have excellent soccer, GAA and rugby coaches and the children also participate in Hip Hop dancing and swimming lessons. The children

regularly attend rugby blitzes and we also take part in basketball competitions. “We invite you to come along to view our school and to meet the staff at our Open Day on the 15th February where we will be more than happy to answer any queries you may have”. If you are unable to attend, please feel free to contact the school on 043-3321817 or email cloontuskertns@eircom.net. For further insight into school life at Cloontuskert N.S., check out www.cloontuskertns.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople PUBLIC NOTICES

POLITICAL PEOPLE TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 AND 14 Roscommon County Council hereby gives Notice of its Intention to close the road referred to hereunder for the period and the reason specified. Roads to be closed: The L-1627-0 in its entirety and the L-162720 from its junction with the L-6656-11 to its junction with the L-6635-35. Alternative Routes: Traffic will be diverted onto the L-162522 from its junction with the L-1627-0 to its junction with the L-6635-15. Take the L-6635-15 and onto the L-6635-35 to its junction with the L-1627-20 and visa-versa. Period of Closure: 22nd February 2019 to 5th April 2019. Works will take place from 8am to 6pm. Reason for Road Closure: Laying of watermains along the public road as part of the Oran-Ballintober 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. Map 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 12.00 pm on Tuesday 12th February 2019. Martin Lydon Director of Services Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

‘Breakout for Hospice’ cycle in April Mayo/Roscommon Hospice seeks cyclists to participate in the fundraising ‘Breakout for Hospice’ cycle which takes place on Saturday, April 20th, which commences in Castlerea and includes a 120km/70km and a 15km family cycle. The event, organised by Castlerea Prison Service and An Garda Síochána, will be followed by a novel Gaelic football match at 6 pm between the two parties where one of them will become the Breakout for Hospice 2019 champions. Refreshments will be served after event. For more information contact 094-9388666.

Fun Run for Paul’s Chernobyl visit Rose Escort of the Year, Paul Clabby, is holding a 5K Fun Run in order to fundraise for his upcoming volunteering visit to Adi Roche’s Chernobyl Children International orphanage. The Fun Run will take place this Saturday (9th) from Kilbride Community Centre with registration from 11 am and the run starting at 12 noon. Entry is €10 per person or €20 per family. There will also be an after-party in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon town with a rugby-themed fancy dress for the Ireland v Scotland Six Nations game. All support appreciated.

Maura steps in, Frank steps out Maura Hopkins interview: Opposite page  PAUL HEALY

Senator Maura Hopkins has ended months of speculation about her political future by announcing that she will seek a nomination to run for Fine Gael in the next General Election. The Ballaghaderreen native has revealed that severe back pain, which greatly restricted her movement in recent months, had been the primary reason why she could not commit to running until now. Asked if alleged tensions between her and Fine Gael HQ had also contributed to uncertainty over whether or not she would run, Senator Hopkins said that the focus of her many discussions with the party hierarchy over recent months was the need for local issues to be addressed by the Government. Last week the Roscommon People reported that Senator Hopkins had been given a number of deadlines (by which to declare her intentions) by an increasingly impatient Fine Gael HQ, but that these deadlines had all passed. Accordingly, the party’s selection convention in Roscommon/Galway, scheduled for January 25th last, had been called off. On Monday, Senator Hopkins brought the ongoing speculation to an end when she contacted Fine Gael HQ and confirmed that she

will seek a nomination to run for the party in the next General Election. Senator Hopkins says she expects the Fine Gael Selection Convention for Roscommon/Galway – the only constituency in which the party has yet to select its candidate or candidates – to be held in the near future. In a press statement, Senator Hopkins said: “I am working extremely hard on behalf of people in the Roscommon/Galway constituency. There are many issues in which I have invested a huge amount of time, energy and commitment, and I want to continue this work for the benefit of people in this region. I set a very high standard and I have been honest, factual and determined in all of my work. “For health reasons following recent surgery after an injury, it was not possible to indicate my ability to commit until now. After a period of rehabilitation, I am fully recovered and fully focussed on my work. “I have received a significant amount of encouragement from people to put my name forward. Over the coming weeks, I will be meeting with Fine Gael members in order to ask for their support to represent them and all of the people in the Roscommon/Galway constituency”.

Senator Frank Feighan has decided he will not now seek a party nomination to contest the next General Election in the RoscommonGalway constituency. His announcement follows confirmation from Senator Maura Hopkins that she will seek a nomination.

Feighan opts out Fine Gael Senator Frank Feighan has announced he will not now seek a party nomination to contest the next General Election in the RoscommonGalway constituency. His announcement follows confirmation from Senator Maura Hopkins that she will seek a nomination. Senator Feighan said: “My home town of Boyle and my base of North Roscommon had moved into the new Sligo-Leitrim/South Donegal/ North Roscommon constituency, however I had been asked to consider putting my name forward for selection to contest the Roscommon/Galway constituency, even though I didn’t reside there. “This was based on a number of factors, not least that I had been successful in two successive General Elections in the constituency of Roscommon/South Leitrim, as well as my extensive political experience as a Government politician who delivered for the region. I have also said previously that I would only consider putting my name forward for the Roscommon/Galway selection convention to assist the party in the absence of Fine Gael finding a suitable candidate. “That position for me has now changed, given Senator Maura Hopkins has officially declared her intention to secure a party nomination. I wish Maura all the best in her endeavours”.

Declan to run, with blessing of Fitz! Well-known Williamstown businessman Declan Geraghty is to contest this year’s local elections. Mr. Geraghty will run in the Tuam Municipal District, following the decision of sitting councillor Des Joyce not to contest the election. Cllr. Joyce was co-opted on to Galway County Council in 2014 after then-councillor Michael Fitzmaurice won the Roscommon/South Leitrim Dáil by-election. However, Cllr. Joyce has now announced that due to “work and family commitments” he cannot commit to another five years as a county councillor. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice officially announced news of Cllr.

Joyce’s withdrawal and of Mr. Geraghty’s decision to stand. Deputy Fitzmaurire said: “I am very happy to endorse Declan and I wish him well. I am sure that he would be an excellent person to represent the people of this community”. The Independent TD said that he fully understands and respects Cllr. Joyce’s decision and wishes him well in the future. Mr. Geraghty said: “I would like to wish Des Joyce well following his decision to step down from the Council. Once I heard that Des had made this decision, I felt that it would leave a vacuum in this part of the county and I decided to run to give

the people of this area a strong independent voice. “I believe this part of the county is a great place to live in and a great place to bring up a family, but it has suffered over the past few

years and my aim would be to do all that I can to help improve rural infrastructure in the area. “We need more jobs and we need to support business in our towns and

villages. So many of our youth have gone away since the Celtic Tiger left us and we must do something to attract them back so that we can re-populate the area”.

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice has endorsed the candidature of well-known businessman Declan Geraghty.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

NewsPeople

POLITICAL PEOPLE

Sajjad to run in local elections  DAN DOONER

Ballaghaderreen businessman, Sajjad Hussain, has announced his intention to run as an independent candidate in the Boyle area in May’s local elections, which it is thought will make him the first Asian person to seek a seat on Roscommon County Council. Speaking to the Roscommon People earlier this week, Mr. Hussain, who is originally from Pakistan, outlined the reasons for his decision. “A lot of people have asked me (about running). Before, I was thinking that maybe politics is not for me, but people convinced me so I started thinking seriously on it and then decided to run. If I can improve anything or do anything for the community and for the people then why not? I should try my best to do this,” he said. The 42-year-old father-of-three said he has so far received backing from members of the Ballaghaderreen community and highlighted his work with various local groups. “If somebody trusted me and gave me a vote and I became a councillor but I couldn’t do anything for them…that was a fear for me. But I kept dis-

Ballaghaderreen businessman, Sajjad Hussain

Tóibín’s new party: Public meeting Aontú, the new political party started by former Sinn Féin TD Peadar Tóibín, will hold a public meeting in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, on Thursday, the 21st of February (in place of the original date of Tuesday, the 12th of February) at 7.30 pm. This meeting is one of a series of meetings that are being held throughout the country. Peadar Tóibín TD, who will be speaking at the event, says: “We are blown away by the level of support we’ve received. There is an avalanche of people who are getting in contact with us. Many of these people, who are from a Fianna Fáil background or a Sinn Féin background, are seriously frustrated that the leaderships of their parties do not represent them anymore. “People are saying that they have no-one to vote for, that all the parties are uniform on so many issues. The truth is respectful opposition is not the enemy, it’s an important part of a healthy democracy”. He added: “We are an All-Ireland party. We seek the unity of the Irish people north and south. We seek self-determination and Irish independence north and south. “We believe that all human life should be protected and that no mother or child should be left behind. We seek to protect the most vulnerable in society at all stages of life”.

cussing it with people and asked them to speak openly and I was surprised with how many told me to run”. Mr. Hussain, who is married to Saima, is the current chairperson of Ballaghaderreen Tidy Towns and was also a member of the local group which last year won the Community Group of the Year award at the Rehab People of the Year Awards in Dublin for their work in welcoming Syrian refugees to the town. Mr. Hussain was also a founding member of Ballaghaderreen’s extremely successful cricket club, which won numerous provincial titles. “I think people in Ballaghaderreen know me. I own the barber shop and at the same time I am involved in different groups so people know me in different ways and I have many friends here,” he said. Mr. Hussain conceded that it would be a challenge to win votes in the wider Boyle Electoral Area. “Some negativity is already there, and it’s a big area. Obviously people in places like Boyle, Tulsk, Rooskey and Strokestown don’t know me maybe. They may wonder what’s going to happen because I think this is the first time an Asian person will run. If something happens other than the usual it can take time for people to understand what is going on. The

good thing is I’m not new in this community; I’m living eighteen years in this country and thirteen years in Ballaghaderreen,” he said. Mr. Hussain believes more can be done for rural Ireland and Ballaghaderreen in particular when it comes to local commerce. “If you go to Ballaghaderreen, half the town is empty. From a business point of view, every year local businesses are closing down. There are lots of reasons, for example it’s not easy for small businesses with rates and taxes. There’s lots of pressure on them”. When asked what he thought his chances of getting elected were, Mr. Hussain said he was hopeful but vowed to keep working in the community regardless. “I am very hopeful after the response I have got so far but at the same time I’m not living in any wonder world! I know what is in my hands and I can try my best and deliver what I can. I’ll leave it to the people, if they think I can improve anything they will vote for me. If elected I will try my best to do the best (for them) but at the same time if I’m not elected I will not be too disappointed. I will keep working and keep doing what I’m doing in the community”.

Hopkins ready for election race after recovering from surgery  PAUL HEALY

Senator Maura Hopkins says that the success of major back surgery which she had prior to Christmas has freed her to make another attempt to win a Dáil seat for Fine Gael. Speaking to the Roscommon People on Tuesday, Senator Hopkins said that an injury which she has had for “five or six years” had been progressively worsening. “In simple terms, I had a disc problem…which was causing significant nerve pain, in my back and leg. This was getting worse as time went by. I had to investigate what treatment I would need”. Throughout last year, the pain became worse, and Senator Hopkins found it impacting more and more on her work and general mobility. For most of the second half of 2018 she was unable to drive and was greatly restricted in her movement. “I had surgery in Galway just before Christmas, and thankfully it was successful. There’s a 7/8 week recovery period….so I didn’t really know until now if I would be able to run again… in the next election”. (Senator Hopkins ran for Fine Gael in the 2014 Roscommon/South Leitrim by-election and in Roscommon/Galway in the 2016 General Election). Ms. Hopkins says that while she tried to work as hard as she could over “this difficult period”, she is now re-energised and looking forward to dealing with the challenges facing the constituency. Asked about alleged tense meetings between herself and Fine Gael HQ in recent months, Senator Hopkins played down their significance, other than to

make the point that she was arguing for the need for more Government support in Roscommon/Galway. “My role as a public representative is to highlight the concerns of people in this constituency, and that’s what I’ve been doing. Issues like job creation in particular, also broadband, also our

health services…including homecare packages and home help hours. What I find most satisfying about being in politics is working with people…I listen to people and I raise their concerns”. Senator Hopkins said that when she was having discussions with Fine Gael HQ over recent months it was with a

Senator Hopkins with Deputy Eugene Murphy.

view to getting a greater focus by the Government on this area. “We have been through a difficult period since 2011…but now, as a Government, we need to do more to support balanced regional development, particularly in the area of job creation. In my discussions (with party HQ) I have raised these concerns, I feel they need to be addressed (by the Fine Gael-led government)”. She insists that job creation is her number one priority. “We hear positive jobs announcements in Dublin…but we have so much to offer here in terms of potential. I want to see greater employment opportunities for young people. We have a great quality of life here, but more support from the Government is needed”. If selected at convention, she will do her “utmost” to win a seat for Fine Gael. She says Fine Gael wants to lead the next Government, and it will be very important, as a local representative, to have “access to ministers”. “Just now, I’m thrilled to be back fully working again, back on my feet. I love working with people and I am determined to continue to raise issues for people”. When I enquire where her constituency office is, she confirms it’s in Ballaghaderreen, before smiling and holding her mobile phone up: “This is the real office!” With that, a newly-buoyed and determined Senator Maura Hopkins was off to Dublin (for Senate work)…ready for the challenges of the New Year, ready for another tilt at Dáil Éireann.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

FarmingPeople

Suckler farmers urged to apply for BEEP scheme Roscommon IFA County Livestock Chairman, John O’Beirne, has urged suckler farmers to apply for the new Beef Environmental and Efficiency Pilot Scheme and draw down the €40 per cow payment. The application period runs until February 22nd. He said: “IFA fought a hard campaign in the last Budget and secured additional funding of €20m for sucklers and it is very important that farmers apply for the scheme. The €40 payment for sucklers is not enough and the IFA is determined to continue the campaign to get targeted payments up to €200 per cow for sucklers. “The application process for the scheme is very simple and just requires farmers to sign the form and submit it to the Department of Agriculture. “Farmers will have to weigh their cows and calves once during the year, between March 8th and November 1st, and submit the data to ICBF. Payment will be made in respect of suckler calves born on the holding between July 1st 2018 and June 30th 2019”. Mr. O’Beirne added that the Department of Agriculture will make 400 scales available to farmers through co-op marts around the country. He said it is essential that costs to farmers for this service are kept to an absolute minimum. In addition, farmers will be able to use their own scales and suckler farmers do not have to be participating in the BDGP scheme to qualify for BEEP.

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Glenamaddy to host beef meeting Glenamaddy-based Galway county councillor Peter Keaveney has organised a beef information evening in Glenamaddy Community Centre on Friday, February 15th at 8 pm. Cllr. Keaveney said he has called the meeting in order to help break the uncertainty negativity currently surrounding the beef sector. “Presently, there is a significant lack of confidence in the beef sector, with many farmers questioning their future in suckler cows. The suckler cow has been a major contributor to the backbone of the rural economy in Ireland for many years, particularly in the west. However, the coming months could define the future of not only the suckler cow, but the entire beef industry,” Cllr.

Keaveney said earlier this week. Cllr. Keaveney is himself a suckler farmer and says he understands the struggles and frustration faced by farmers with high production costs. As a result, he made the decision to organise this information evening for all farmers in the Galway, Mayo and Roscommon regions. The aim of the evening is to help inform the local farmer on what the industry is facing and attempt to look into the future where the beef industry is heading. Cllr. Keaveney explained: “I wanted to organise an event that will bring the beef farmer up to date with what our industry is facing, inform farmers on where our main markets are, the possible effects Brexit may have on us here in the west of Ireland,

Cllr. Peter Keaveney has organised a beef information meeting in Glenamaddy Community Centre for Friday, February 15th.

what the reform of the new CAP may look like, and finally the alternatives to the suckler cow, with a focus on contract rearing and calf to beef”. Some of the most knowledgeable specialists in the

industry are set to appear at the meeting, including: Darren Carty, livestock specialist with the Irish Farmers Journal, CAP and Brexit correspondent Phelim O’Neill from the Irish Farmers Journal, and

Teagasc adviser Gabriel Trayers. The event will take place in Glenamaddy Community Centre on Friday, 15th February at 8 pm sharp. There will be refreshments served on the night.

Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan MEP recently attended an Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) meeting at The Clanree Hotel, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal in conjunction with the review of the ANC Scheme and to discuss CAP legislative proposals post-2020. Pictured (l-r): Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan MEP, Matt Carthy MEP, Charlie McConalogue TD, Colm O’Donnell (INHFA President), Henry O’Donnell, (INHFA Vice President), Mairead McGuinness MEP and Thomas Pringle TD.

Roscommon People MART WATCH Roscommon Mart sample prices Dry cows Lim X 815kgs €1515, Char X 780kgs €1415, Char X 830kgs €1365, Lim X 740kgs €1365, Lim X 690kgs €1305, Char X 710kgs €1235, BBX 760kgs €1205, Simm X 755kgs €1200, AAX 640kgs €1065, BBX 660kgs €1000, AAX 600kgs €750.

Heifers Char

700kgs

€1615,

Char

680kgs €1550, Char X 640kgs €1385, Lim X 535kgs €1335, AAX 455kgs €900, Lim X 480kgs €1120, Lim X 470kgs €1270, Char X 490kgs €1000, AAX 470kgs €980.

Finished hoggets 68.7kgs €132, 58.9kgs €130, 53.2kgs €128, 40.5kgs €120, 48.6kgs €119.

60.5kgs 51.3kgs 48.8kgs 48.1kgs

€130, €130, €122, €120,

Manager’s report… Maura Quigley, Roscommon Mart “There were slightly better numbers on offer this week with prices holding firm and a good clearance of lots. Prices for heifers ranged from €2.09 per kilo up to €2.70 per kilo. Dry cows ranged from €1.53 per kilo up to €1.89 per kilo. “Sales continue on Fridays for bullocks, heifers and dry cows. Full details on our Facebook page and website. “There will be a special sale of heifers on Friday, February 15th and bookings will be accepted up to 5 pm today (7th). “There were similar numbers on offer at this week’s sheep sale. Prices for finished lambs peaked at €132 for 68.7kgs and there was a steady trade for cast ewes with prices ranging from €43 up to €120. “Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am and a sheep scanning service is available from Wednesday, February 13th from 9 am to 10 am”.

Castlerea Mart sample prices Manager’s report… Brendan Egan, Castlerea Mart “The recent inclement weather conditions impacted on numbers presented this week but the ones that braved the elements met with a good trade and a good clearance overall. “Bullocks and heifers were similar in price to previous weeks while the weanlings are steadily increasing in price with the top quality calves recording fancy prices. “Cows with calf at foot made €1,190 with a springer cow making €985. Young calves made from €65 to €100 per head with runners making from €500 to €800 per head. “Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday) with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings All sales commence at 11 am”.

Bullocks

Dry cows

Lmx 465kgs €1110, Chx 470kgs €1080, Ch 545kgs €1385, Ch 515kgs €1270, Ch 540kgs €1285, Ch 550kgs €1355, AAx 600kgs €1200.

Lmx 700kgs €1260, Lm 675kgs €1180, Ch 695kgs €1070, Lm 685kgs €1035.

Heifers Lm 460kgs €1035, Ch 590kgs €1345, Ch 560kgs €1250, AAx 455kgs €1000, Lm 530kgs €1175.

Weanling bulls Chx 275kgs €800, Lm 245kgs €725, Lm 370kgs €1025, Lm 380kgs €1000, Ch 440kgs €1000.

Weanling heifers Ch 260kgs €785, Ch 275kgs €845, Lm 290kgs €870, Lm 310kgs €940, Ch 275kgs €780.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Business

FarmingPeople

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

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

Aengus Oates Financial Services

Bullocks, Heifers and Dry Cows

Plan your future today

Every Friday at 11 a.m.

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

------------------------------------

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

Tuesday, February 12th at 5 p.m.

Special Sale of Weanlings Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, February 7th

Also

Special Entry of 14 Excellent Quality Homebred Limousin in Calf Heifers Due February/March in calf to P.B. Lim Bull (Replacement Value €144) most Heifers are 4 & 5 stars from disease free herd. Further Details 087 6357554 - Photos on website/facebook ------------------------------------

This Friday, February 8th at 11 a.m.

Special Spring Sale of Bullocks Also Heifers & Dry Cows ------------------------------------

Friday, February 15th at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers Also Bullocks & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 7th ------------------------------------

Friday, February 22nd at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks Also Heifers & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 14th ------------------------------------

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

Sheep Scanning Service Weekly (9 a.m.to 10 a.m) ------------------------------------

Pictured at the awards were: Elizabeth Crabill, CEO, CIE Tours (Awards’ sponsors); Minister for Tourism and Sport Shane Ross; Andrew Farrell, Louise Fitzpatrick, Geraldine Keegan, Regina Walshe, Chloe Hersey (all Lough Key Forest and Activity Park).

Top tourism award for Lough Key Forest Park Lough Key Forest Park in Boyle scooped the Best Ireland’s Hidden Heartland Award (greater than 50,000 visitors) at the Irish Tourism Industry Awards 2019 in Dublin last week. The Awards, organised by the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC), Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland, gathered the ‘crème de la crème’ of the Irish tourism industry, announcing 15 winning companies as best in their category from 75 shortlisted finalists. The event encourages, recognises and celebrates excellence in the tourism sector. Presenter Kathryn Thomas hosted the gala evening, which took place in Dublin at the Clayton Hotel and was attended by Minister for Transport, Tourism and

Sport, Shane Ross, who presented the awards. Speaking at the event, Minister Shane Ross said: “I am delighted to acknowledge the hard work and success of all companies at this evening’s event. Our successful tourism figures go hand-inhand with the quality of the Irish tourism and hospitality industry. My congratulations to all the award winners and continued success”. Louise Fitzpatrick of Lough Key expressed delight with winning the award: “This is a great achievement for us and we are delighted to be recognised as winner – tourism is vital for the national and regional economy and we are so pleased to play our part in such a key sector”.

‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’

Real Broadband for Real Users Fast, reliable, friendly

Contact Tonya on 090 66 34319

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

Date for your Diary Saturday March 9th at 12 Noon

Organic Sale- Cattle & Sheep Bookings through the Mart office up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 28th

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

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

Find us on facebook

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AVAILABLE: • Editorial, layout & graphic design • Lithographic printing • Digital printing • Print ﬁnishing (saddle stitching, perfect binding, thread sewing & lamination)

CONTACT:

ROSCOMMON PEOPLE Abbey Street, Roscommon www.roscommonpeople.com

For a competitive quotation, contact: Paul Healy, 090-6634632/3 or email: paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

PropertyPeople

PSRA Licence No: 001238

NEW TO THE MARKET Thomas Street Stores, Dysart, Co. Roscommon

No. 2, Abbeyville, Galway Road, Roscommon is finished to a very high standard with a host of extras

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

NEW TO THE MARKET For sale at CURRAGHROE, CO. ROSCOMMON

We have been instructed to Sell the former National School on circa 1 acre. The Building is in excellent condition and is located approximately 2 miles from Lanesboro on the main Scramogue to Lanesboro Road. This would be ideal for conversion to a private residence subject to planning permission being granted. Accommodation consist of 2 large Classrooms, 2 Cloakrooms, 3 Toilets, Concrete yard to the rear with a large veranda and water tower. For further information or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

__________________________________________

PRELIMINARY NOTICE For sale Circa 28 acres of top-quality land located at COOLEGARRY, CURRAGHBOY, CO. ROSCOMMON. The Lands can be sold in a number of different lots if required. For further details contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

__________________________________________

LAND TO LET - NEW TO THE MARKET Circa 125 acres of top-quality land in one lot. The lands are located in one block convenient to Curraghboy Village. Suitable for Meadow or Cattle. No Sheep.

Elegant residence in hallmark estate An elegant four-bedroomed (two ensuite) residence situated at the entrance to a hallmark estate on the outskirts of Roscommon Town has gone on the market. A former showhouse, No. 2, Abbeyville, Galway Road, Roscommon is finished to a very high standard with a host of extras. It’s on the books of Oates Auctioneers, Roscommon. Accommodation includes entrance hallway, sitting room, living room, open plan kitchen/dining room, large utility with WC off. First floor comprises of four large bedrooms (two with ensuites) and wall to wall built-in wardrobes and family bathroom. Outside are generous landscaped grounds with cobble lock driveway. Viewing of this exceptional residence is highly recommended by the auctioneer. The asking price is €279,000. All queries to Oates Auctioneers (Roscommon) Ltd., Church Street, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 090-662 7878. Email: info@ oates.ie, see website: www.oates.ie

Attractive investment opportunity This week Hughes & Company are offering for sale at Racecourse Road, Roscommon, four one-bedroomed apartments which are located in one block (with hollow core floors and three-phase power). The property is ideally located a short distance from Roscommon town centre. Pat will accept offers in excess of €200,000 for this fine property. This is a very attractive investment opportunity. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

Unique property situated in a pivotal position on a very busy junction benefiting from a high volume of passing trade within a large catchment area, this established business is being sold as a going concern. Offering a wide range of products including hardware, petrol, diesel, farm supplies, animal remedies, grocery, cold deli etc. This property comprises large shop unit, 3-bedroom residential accommodation, large agricultural store and yard to the rear. Viewings are strictly by prior appointment with the Sole Selling Agent. Price Region: POA -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

VIEWING ADVISED 2 The Orchard, The Walk, Roscommon Town Superior dormer style residence presented for sale in show house condition by its present owners with no expense spared. Accommodation includes 4 Bedrooms (2 Ensuite), Sitting Room, Kitchen/Dining Room, Utility and Family Bathroom. There are a lot of extras including Solid Beech Flooring, bright and spacious Kitchen with cream units with granite worktops, landscaped private grounds to side and rear, together with paved footpaths. Price Region: €198,000. REF: D01255/10 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET No 5 Shannon Grove, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon N39 H018 Impressive 4-bedroom residence nestled in the popular residential area of Shannon Grove, just off the main Roscommon/Lanesboro route. Situated in the sought after front row. Accommodation briefly includes, Entrance Hallway, Sitting Room, Kitchen/ Dining, Utility, 4 Bedrooms (Ensuite) and 2 Bathrooms. Price Region: €165,000. Ref: D01352/42 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BARGAIN OF THE WEEK

Cloonbrackna Avenue, Roscommon Town Quality 4 Bedroom Bungalow, located in a much sought after residential area and situated within walking distance of Roscommon Town Centre and all its amenities. Excellent layout with large private garden to rear. Accommodation Briefly: Entrance Hallway, 4 Bedrooms, Sitting Room, Kitchen/Dining Room and 2 Bathrooms. Price Region: €165,000 for immediate sale. Ref: 25/D0288

Church Street, Roscommon town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

The Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, CO. WESTMEATH TEL: 090 6477500 FAX: 090 6477546 E-mail athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

PropertyPeople

Very attractive house on large corner site concrete yard with electricity and water. This would be ideal for anyone considering a business venture independent to the residence. Viewing is certainly recommended before it is snapped up for a reasonable price. Contact the office to arrange on 090-6663700 or email info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie

CREEVY ROAD, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON

32, Valleycourt, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.

David’s Sale of the Week David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week pleased to advise that the sale has been agreed for a quality three-bedroomed semidetached residence located at 32, Valleycourt, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. David reports that this property has been sold for “a very satisfactory price”. David further commented: “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas. Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”. You can contact David of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www. propertypartners.ie.

A MOST ATTRACTIVE 2 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE A primely located 2 B/R bungalow residence of approx. 880 sq.ft which stands on a site area of approx. 0.34 of an acre. Situated in a renowned residential location beside Roscommon town, the said property is presented for sale in solid condition but in need of modernisation throughout. A rare opportunity to acquire a prime property on the outskirts of Roscommon town offering huge potential. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €100,000 to sell. BER: D2. Legal: Peter Jones, Messers Peter H Jones, Goff St, Roscommon. 090 66 26925.

All offers after €100,000 to sell. 3 OAKWOOD RETIREMENT VILLAGE, HAWTHORNE DRIVE, ROSCOMMON.

PSRA Licence No. 001350

Property Sales Lettings Valuations ●

●

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

www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

NOTICE OF AUCTION

FOR SALE

MACHINERY & COMMERCIAthLin

100 Bales of Silage 100 Square Bales of Hay

Saturday, March 30 Athleague GAA Grounds (Across from Kepak)

WATCH OUT FOR BIG UPDATES IN THE COMING WEEKS!!

Contact the office on 090-6663700

WANTED – WANTED

Lands To Let For Awaiting Clients Any Size, Any Location With or Without Entitlements Contact Ivan on 090-6663700

Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week advising patrons of their forthcoming London and New York property exhibitions and are pleased to advise that listings are progressing well. “As property prices are still very affordable in this region, consequently we have enjoyed a huge number of enquiries and sales from the UK and USA markets as they recognise the excellent value to be found in all areas. They are drawn to Ireland in particular for our lower cost or living. “The Property Partners brand is one of the best recognised in property circles and the propertypartners.ie website is one of the best platforms on which to advertise any property on a worldwide basis. “With over 36 years’ experience in the property market, Property Partners Earley are best placed to offer your property for sale in the current market and offer a free appraisal service to any client wishing to list their property for sale in their exhibitions”. For a free property appraisal or to include your property for sale in the exhibition, contact either John Earley (FIPAV) or David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie, or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

Wanted: Lands to let Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week advising that they require farms of all sizes in all areas for the letting season. 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.

A QUALITY 2 B/R SEMI-DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE A most attractive 2 B/R semi-detached bungalow residence of approx. 845 sq.ft located in the exclusive Oakwood Retirement Village beside Roscommon town, Roscommon University Hospital and all local amenities. The said property is presented for sale in good condition throughout with the benefit of spacious living accommodation and a peaceful setting with ample parking facilities. The said property is subject to a tenancy at €6,240 per annum. We now invite enquiries, viewings and all offers after €100,000 for immediate sale. BER: D2.

All offers after €100,000 to sell. RUSHEEN, CASTLEPLUNKETT VILLAGE, CO. ROSCOMMON.

NE W M TO AR T KE HE T

Ballymacurley South within a short distance of Ballinaheglish village

NE W M TO AR T KE HE T

London and New York calling!

●

EARLEY

NE W M TO AR T KE HE T

This very attractive three-bedroomed bungalow sits on a large corner site of c. 0.64 acres. The property is located in Ballymacurley South within a short distance of Ballinaheglish village, including school and Church. The property is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from Roscommon Town and approx. 20 minutes’ drive from Castlerea and all amenities. It’s on the books of Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers. There is an extensive array of outbuildings to one side of the house with separate access from the main road. The property is in very good condition and would make an ideal family home in this popular area with peaceful countryside views in what is a very good neighbourhood. A bonus with this property is the array of outbuildings to the side which have their own separate access with a large

PROPERTY PARTNERS

A MOST ATTRACTIVE 4 B/R VILLAGE CENTER RESIDENCE STANDING ON APPROX. 13.2 ACRES (Note: Lands and residence can be sold independently should market interest dictate) A most attractive 4 B/R two storey detached residence standing on approx. 13.2 acres of prime good quality village side lands with dual road frontage. The said residence is presented for sale in excellent condition throughout having been carefully maintained and modernized in recent years. The said property can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate and is set out as follows: Lot 1: The Entire. Lot 2: 4 B/R residence standing on approx. 0.75 of an acre. BER: D2. Lot 3: Approx. 12.45 acres of lands only. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. Legal: Padraig Kelly & Co, Farnbeg, Strokestown. 071 96 33666.

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 08 February 2019

PropertyPeople Licence No.: 001955

Winner in 2016 and finalists of the Irish Independent Regional Excellent Awards 2015, 2016 and 2017

5 MARY STREET, GALWAY N91 NXW0. Tel. 091 564 212 / 091 562 681 Email: info@odj.ie • Web: http://www.odonnjoyce.com

OVER 50 PROPERTIES FOR SALE In our ‘Wild Atlantic Way Property Auction ON FRIDAY 1st OF MARCH IN HARBOUR HOTEL, NEW DOCK ROAD, GALWAY 11 THE OAKS, BOYLE ROAD, FRENCHPARK, ROSCOMMON

• Four bedroom terraced house located in the village of Frenchpark. • House is in turn key condition and the ideal family home. • Being sold with vacant possession. • The Oaks Estate is pivotally located in the centre of Frenchpark. • The village is located on the N5 National Primary Route and includes a host of amenities OPEN VIEWING SAT 9 FEB 2:45 - 3:15 AMV: €75,000

Three-bedroomed bungalow with large garage is in showhouse condition Connaughton Auctioneers (Athleague) 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 gardens

CLOONGLASNY BEG, STROKESTOWN, ROSCOMMON

• Detached 4 Bedroom bungalow standing on a site of circa 0.69 acres. • Set in a rural location only 11 minutes from Stokestown and only 16 mins to Carrick-onShannon. • The property is rented and is being sold with tenants in place. • Folio No. RN37345F. • BEING SOLD WITH TENANTS IN PLACE OPEN VIEWING SAT 9TH FEB 12.45 -1.15 AMV: €120,000

34 BALLYCLARE COURT, BALLYLEAGUE, ROSCOMMON

• 3 Bed semi-detached residence being sold with vacant possession. Located in a sought after area of • Ballyleague /Lanesboro on The River Shannon. • This property would be an ideal starter home or investment property due to its size, condition and location. OPEN VIEWING SAT 9TH FEB 11.45 - 12.15 AMV: €90,000

ROSEWOOD HOUSE, DEERPARK, BOYLE, ROSCOMMON

• Four bedroom detached residence overlooking the River Boyle. • The property is located close to all local amenities. • Folio No. RN20149F OPEN VIEWING SAT 9TH FEB 3.45 - 4.15 AMV: €150,000

CORRABAUN, ELPHIN, ROSCOMMON

• 3 Bed detached residence with a number of outbuildings and stands on a large site of circa 9.7 acres. • The property is located approximately 6km from the village of Tulsk and 20km from Roscommon Town. • Folio No. RN18931F OPEN VIEWING SAT 9TH FEB 1:45 - 2:15 AMV: €85,000

Ballyleague, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon.

Tulsk lands come with old residence on site At Glenballythomas, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon Hughes & Company are selling a farm consisting of circa 33 acres and an old stone residence thereon. The lands can be sold in a number of lots to suit and would be suitable for renovation. The lands are located in one of Roscommon’s most historic and renowned farming areas and close to all amenities. For further information, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Large commercial building is well worth viewing At Henry Street, Roscommon, Hughes & Company are offering for sale a large commercial building with a two-bedroomed selfcontained apartment on the first floor. The building is finished to a high standard. Offers in excess of €150,000 are being considered. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

with rear door access, three bedrooms in all. Bedroom two has double French doors leading to the gardens and has an ensuite. Main bathroom 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 or indeed a first-time buyer’s dream. For further information, brochure, pictures and maps, contact the office on 090-6663700 or email info@connaughtonauctioneers. ie Viewings strictly by appointment and can be arranged for evenings, weekends and bank holidays by prior arrangement.

Dormer bungalow overlooking Roscommon Castle Hughes & Company are confirming that there is a lot of interest in a five-bedroomed dormer bungalow on a large fully landscaped site located at Gallowstown, Roscommon and overlooking Roscommon Castle. The residence is situated a short distance from Roscommon town centre in a nice private cul-de-sac. Accommodation consists of (downstairs) a sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility, three bedrooms and a toilet with shower and wash hand basin. Upstairs, the property has two large bedrooms and a bathroom. The residence has generated a lot of interest and is being sold with joint selling agents Property Partners Earley, The Square, Roscommon. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers. com

Land lease enquiries Pat Hughes reports that Hughes & Company are receiving a number of enquiries for 11 month and 5 year leases for land at present. If you are thinking of leasing your land contact Pat and let him advise you. His advice is free. Contact Pat on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Gallowstown, Roscommon and overlooking Roscommon Castle.

WEEKEND PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Will Cathal be Dublin’s Next Top Comic?  DAN DOONER

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Kara Earl, Emma Kildea, Kelly Colgan and Megan Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Sabina Higgins to open Drama Festival Sabina Higgins, left, wife of President Michael D Higgins, will officially open Roscommon Drama Festival on Friday, March 1st. Roscommon Drama Festival Chairperson, Mary Finn, said that she was thrilled that Mrs. Higgins had accepted the invitation to open the festival because she had a lifelong passion for drama. Mrs. Higgins was a professional actor who had tread the boards in several major productions in Dublin. After marrying Michael D she moved to Galway and continued her involvement in drama with a particular interest in promoting community arts. Mrs. Higgins was scheduled to open the Festival last year but the heavy snowfall and icy conditions meant that the opening had to be postponed. Mary Finn said that there is already great interest in this year’s festival which runs from Friday, March 1st to Saturday, March 9th and Roscommon Arts Centre have advised her that tickets are selling fast in advance of the event. The complete programme for this year’s festival can be viewed on the Roscommon Drama Festival and Roscommon Arts Centre websites. The festival launch will take place in Áras an Chontae on Wednesday, February 13th at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome and light refreshments, sponsored by Molloy’s of Abbeytown, will be served on the night.

Roscommon comedian Cathal Shanagher’s, pictured top right, star continues to rise on the Irish comedy circuit as he bids to win two comedy competitions in the space of a week this month. Cathal has already booked his place in the final of Dublin’s Next Top Comic on Monday, February 25th at The Comedy Shed at The Woolshed Bar on Parnell Street. The winner will claim a cash prize as well as a number of paid gigs and Cathal has called on all Dublin-based Rossies to come out and show their support on the night. Before that and closer to home, Cathal is also due to appear in the final of Show Me The Funny in The King’s Head in Galway on Monday, February 18th where he will vie for a chance to appear in the comedy tent at this year’s Electric Picnic. A busy month ahead for the Roscommon town funnyman!

Be moved by ‘Furniture’ at Roscommon Arts Centre Druid Theatre Company has announced an extensive national tour of Sonya Kelly’s ‘Furniture’, which was a smash hit with audiences and critics alike at the 2018 Galway International Arts Festival. As part of this national tour the show will take to the stage at Roscommon Arts Centre on April 16th and 17th at 8 pm nightly. Written by Sonya Kelly (The Wheelchair on my Face), and directed by Cathal Cleary, a native of Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, Furniture is a light-hearted new play about perceptions and possessions. Told through the lives of six individuals, this fresh comedy looks at how the things we own shape our worldview, and even ourselves. The play received a staged reading in 2016 as a Druid Debut and had its world premiere as part of Druid’s remarkable season of new Irish writing at GIAF 2018. Described as ‘wickedly insightful’ (The Irish Times), ‘laughout-loud funny’ (The Sunday Times) and ‘whip smart’ (The Irish Independent) this fresh comedy is a definite ‘must see’ for 2019. Original cast members Niall Buggy and Garrett Lombard reprise their roles of George

and Michael respectively, with Kate Kennedy, Ruth McGill, Rory Nolan and Helen Norton completing the stellar cast. “I’m delighted that Druid’s production of Sonya Kelly’s Furniture will return as

a national tour,” said Druid’s Artistic Director, Garry Hynes. “The huge success of Furniture at the Galway International Arts Festival shows that it is an exciting time for new writing and new talent in Ireland and we

are glad to be a part of that”. Tickets are on sale now from Roscommon Arts Centre’s box office on 090-66 25824/www. roscommonartscentre.ie and early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

Garrett Lombard and Niall Buggy as ‘George and Michael’ in Sonya O’Kelly’s ‘Furniture’.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

WeekendPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Simon Peter, the fisherman, is the first to be called personally by Jesus in Luke’s Gospel. His calling resembles Isaiah’s commissioning in the First Reading: Confronted with the holiness of the Lord, both Peter and Isaiah are overwhelmed by a sense of their own sinfulness and inadequacy. Yet each experiences the Lord’s forgiveness and is sent to preach the good news of His mercy to the world. No one is “fit to be called an apostle,” Paul recognises in today’s Epistle. But by “the grace of God,” even a persecutor of the Church – as Paul once was – can be lifted up for the Lord’s service. In the Old Testament, humanity was unfit for the divine – no man could stand in God’s presence and live (see Exodus 33:20). But in Jesus, we’re made able to speak with Him face-to-face, to taste His Word on our tongue. Today’s scene from Isaiah is recalled in every Mass. Before reading the Gospel, the priest silently asks God to cleanse his lips that he might worthily proclaim His Word. God’s Word comes to us as it came to Peter, Paul, Isaiah, and today’s Psalmist – as a personal call to leave everything and follow Him, to surrender our weaknesses in order to be filled with His strength. Simon put out into deep waters even though, as a professional fisherman, he knew it would be foolhardy to expect to catch anything. In humbling himself before the Lord’s command, he was exalted – his nets filled to overflowing; later, as Paul tells us, he will become the first to see the risen Lord. Jesus has made us worthy to receive Him in the company of angels in God’s holy Temple. On our knees like Peter, with the humility of David in today’s Psalm, we thank Him with all our hearts and join in the unending hymn that Isaiah heard around God’s altar: “Holy, holy, holy . . .” (see also Revelation 4:8). – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www. salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club 1st: T. Murphy & T. Smyth, 2nd: L. & L. Curley, Gross: L. Shine & K. Murray. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: K. Dowd & C. McGrath, 2nd: M. & T. O’Keeffe, Gross: T. Smyth & L. Shine. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: P. Kelly & K. Gordan, 2nd: J. O’Gara & E. Curley, Gross: M. McDermott & A. Kilduff. East/West – 1st: C. Tierney & M. Dermody, 2nd: K. Dowd & C. Ansboro, Gross: A. Shine & M. Naughton. Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1st: A. Kilduff & B. Jordan, 2nd: M. Hickey & R. Roughneen, Gross: A. Shine & K. Corcoran. East/West – 1st: G. Bannon & J. O’Gara, 2nd: V. & P. Finneran, Gross: C. Neilan & M. McDermott. Section B North/South – 1st: K. Gately & M. Naughton, 2nd: M. Raftery & R. McGarry, Gross: B. Maher & M. Madden. East/West – 1st: B. Weir & P. Pierse, 2nd: T. McManus & M. McSharry, Gross: E. Curley & S. Kelly.

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S

unique take on life ...

Passing on global warming and Brexit, embracing great sport! There are many occasions when I have a little chat with myself, and tell myself that for a man of my age I have a very limited knowledge of the important things in life, like politics and economics and global warming and Brexit and stuff like that. Meanwhile, I am totally immersed in all kinds of sporting matters. As someone who gets a load of newspapers every week, I unashamedly admit that my first visit every time is to the sports pages. In fact, many is the time that when I discard whatever paper I happen to have, the important news pages will not have even got a passing glance. And so today, Monday (as I write), I am happily reflecting on an actionpacked sporting weekend, but mostly on the rugby action, both internation-

ally and locally, which (sadly for me) saw my two most favoured teams taste agonising defeats. On Saturday we had the big Six Nations clash between Ireland and England. Having escaped early from work, I was seated in front of the telly with a nice warm fire burning in the hearth, and all set for an epic encounter…now, if you read my column last week, you will know that I had great concern about the ability of Joe Schmidt’s men to beat the Auld Enemy – as it turned out, my misgivings were well founded. The more physically powerful English came out with all guns blazing and were worthy winners, although it must be said that of the four tries they scored, we handed them three, and the ref had a big part in their fourth. How-

ever, yet again, the monstrous belts that lads took had to be seen to be believed, and as I write this on Monday evening, there are injury doubts over at least four or five of the Irish players. One thing worth noting is the fact that CJ Stander, who comes in for a lot of criticism because he wasn’t born in Ireland – and, therefore (according to his critics) hasn’t his heart in the green jersey – played for a large part of the game with both a fractured cheekbone and eye socket. The post-match inquests centred on the obvious lack of experience Robbie Henshaw has as an international full-back, a fact that was ruthlessly exposed by the English kickers, and on the school of thought (to which I subscribe) that suggests this reverse may not be a bad thing. Sometimes

expectation can be an overwhelming burden. After all, if we had continued on our victorious way through the Six Nations tournament, we would be the team to beat when the World Cup comes in November. Now the English will carry that burden, and it may well be the best thing that ever happened to us. Anyway, the great thing about sport is there is always a next time, and in this instance the Irish team have a chance to get back on track when they travel to Edinburgh to take on the Scots on Saturday. I expect we will see a positive reaction, and this time, although the Scots are flying, I think we may just about get a welcome and muchneeded victory. It’s a test of Schmidt as well as the team, and I believe he will mastermind a winning response.

Turning the clock back in Creggs Staying with rugby, but on to local matters: on Sunday afternoon our own Creggs team took on the Connemara All Blacks in a vitally important Connacht League match, and even though we narrowly lost, it was in my opinion one of the greatest days in the 45year history of the club. Back in the 1970s, and more particularly the ‘80s, the CreggsConnemara rivalry was legendary, and as someone who had the pleasure (sometimes not so much pleasure) of playing in several of the games of that era, I can say that there was always something completely different about playing the All Blacks. Their team was always tough and hard but fair, and their supporters were the sort of supporters any club would like to have…totally committed to their team, but never abusive to the opposition, and always respectful of their opponents – and hail, rain or snow, they were there in support of their local heroes. And so it was on Sunday when three busloads from Connemara, along with several cars carrying the team and supporters, arrived into our little village – and it was as if the clock was turned back thirty years or so. The game itself was one of the best I have seen at any level in many a year, the atmosphere was amazing, and if I spoke earlier about the huge hits that the international players took on Saturday, the ones that went in on Sunday were every bit as hard. I just don’t understand how lads would be able to get up on Monday morning and head off to their day jobs. I know there will be a full report elsewhere in this week’s People,

Supporters pictured at last Sunday’s Connacht Junior 1A League match between Creggs RFC and Connemara at The Green in Creggs. Pic: Mick McCormack

so all I will say is that it was a match that could have gone either way, and the delighted All Blacks were honest enough to admit that they were very lucky. As a sign of the unbelievable physicality of the exchanges, both teams lost a number of players through injury, and the toll on our lads was particularly severe. With a big cup match against Monivea next Sunday, our strength in depth will be severely tested. At the end of a wonderful encounter both teams were applauded off by their respective supporters and it was just so uplifting to see the appreciation of both sides by the huge attendance. Anyway, typical Connemara, they didn’t just up their sticks and leave our village – they piled into Mikeen’s, where they stayed for quite a while. It was great to meet up with Henry O’Toole, one of the best rugby players of our, or any other era, and

a man who had three sons playing against us on Sunday. Earlier, I had run into Aidan O’Halloran, who had the unusual distinction of playing for both clubs in his time, and before the last of the buses left Creggs, I met up with Corkman John O’Brien, husband of Anne Hannigan, with whom I worked for many a year in the good old Bank of Ireland days. Indeed our chat was responsible for holding up the bus’s departure for a good few minutes. By then, the news that the Rossies had done the business had come through, and so a few of us hit for Roscommon to join their celebrations in the Hatch, and I have to say we had great craic. Jack the Higher and Jack the Lower and myself had been due to meet up for a Christmas get-together, but now that none of us are working full-time, it’s very hard to find any spare time, so it didn’t hap-

pen. However, we decided to have our Christmas Party on Sunday night, and were joined by Adrian Leddy, Anthony Duignan, my son Mark, and young Brian Coady, along with several Rossies, and it was so successful that we are going to have another Christmas party in the Hatch in April. We were a little disappointed that between the three of them – Larry, Seamus and Mick – they couldn’t come up with a Christmas cake, but I suppose we didn’t give them much notice. No excuse in April. And so it came to an end, a day that saw hundreds of people visit our little village. The Roscommon Hunt were also there! As a Creggs man, I was so proud of our rugby team, our rugby club, and our local community – and if everyone says rural Ireland is dead, call to Creggs next Sunday afternoon and you will see a community that is flying the flag as high as it can go.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

WeekendPeople

Local author to launch book in Ballinasloe Aiden Shortall’s book, ‘The Tree That Fell in Winter’, tells the story of his son, Daire, getting a cold during Christmas 2016, which turned into a nightmare, lifethreatening infection, one which Daire survived. The Shortall family were plunged into this traumatic experience which they believe has changed them forever. The new book will be launched in Ballinasloe Library on Saturday, February 9th at 2.15 pm by Athlone-based novelist Mick Donnellan, who is a native of Ballinrobe. Aiden and his wife Elizabeth tragically lost their daughter Blathin who sadly passed away the day before Elizabeth’s pregnancy was induced. The couple have two other children, Colin and Aoife. “We were dealing with a psychologist after Daire’s illness, and she told us to write down our feelings about what was happening as (a form of) therapy and I had always wanted to write a book anyway, and particularly after Blaithin had died,” said Aiden. “I have felt like Blaithin was around me all the time anyway, and I talk to her as if she is really here, and I felt that I brought her to life in the book. The book tells the story about how Elizabeth and me and the family experienced and dealt with Daire’s illness,” he added. Aiden said that he thought it might be interesting for people to see the family’s story from a man’s point of view, because it is rare enough for such stories to be told from the male perspective. Aiden was a student of Mick Donnellan’s Creative Writing course at Athlone Institute of Technology in 2018. Mick Donnellan has worked as a novelist, journalist, travel writer, teacher and playwright.

Aiden Shortall will launch his first book this Saturday at Ballinasloe Library.

Last call for Texaco Children’s Art Competition! Roscommon teachers in primary and second level schools, whose pupils take part in the annual Texaco Children’s Art Competition, are reminded that the closing date for receipt of entries this year is Thursday, February 28th. Last year over 400 pupils from schools in Co. Roscommon submitted entries to the competition, which is now in its 65th year.

Texaco Children’s Art Competition... the closing date for receipt of entries this year is Thursday, February 28th.

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

No blanket defence for this carry-on… If someone tells me they’ve developed a deep attachment to a certain object, such as a piece of jewellery, an old photograph, a treasured ornament/keepsake, or even a poem or a book, etc., I can fully understand, and empathise with them. In fact, I have several objects that are so dear to me, I find it extremely comforting just to hold them. However, if someone tells me they have an emotional attachment so intense, running to a fixation so powerful their commitment to an object spirals into a scenario where they plan to marry it, then I’d certainly, and very gently, suggest they seek expert help. You see, while I’m no professional psychologist, I do know that the expression of love, commitment, (and sometimes a sexual preference) for certain inanimate objects has become so common, the condition has now been given the label ‘objectophile’. Now I’ll bet everyone reading this column knew at least one kid in school who had a weird rock collection, (am I right?), but did that kid marry an entire wall? No, of course they didn’t. However, for Eija-Riitta Berliner-Mauer, the woman who not only married the Berlin Wall, she took her ‘husband’s’ name, (Berliner-Mauer is German for

Exeter artist, Pascale Sellick, (now known as Duvet Lady)

Berlin Wall), and went on to coin the term ‘Objectum Sexuality’ (OS) – setting up a support network called ‘OS Internationale – it was a match made in heaven. However, before I go on, let me set the record straight, because I don’t want anyone panicking here. You see, being married to someone who never gets out of the leaba, or who never moves from in front of the sports channel, doesn’t make you an ‘objectophile,’ rather it makes you saddled with a lazy fecker; so don’t go running off to the doctor, you’re fine; hubby’s got the problem. Nevertheless, while Mrs. Berliner-Mauer, (or should I say

the widow, because they tore down her hubby, sorry the wall, may he RIP), married her one true love decades ago, making her old news, last week, Exeter artist, Pascale Sellick, (now known as Duvet Lady), decided to reveal to the world that she, despite having a human partner, is planning to marry her duvet cover. Yes, according to the delightfully eccentric Ms. Sellick, when she and duvet met, it was, “love at first sight,” with their overwhelming ‘whirlwind’ romance now stretching to a public exchanging of their vows with the nation being invited along for the big party. Seriously folks, forget ‘say yes to the dress,’ this

Why I liked ‘First Dates’ James from Roscommon I really liked Roscommon man, (now living in Galway), James Kilmartin on last week’s First Dates Ireland. What a well-mannered, handsome bloke he is. He has obviously been raised in a loving home, by honest-to-goodness decent people. As for his mother, once he’d officially ‘come out’, James revealed she immediately took down the picture of the Pope, due to him being ‘anti-gay’. Love this Roscommon mammy… fair play to you Mrs. Kilmartin; you’re a legend. However, while cutie James made me smile, (I mean how is this gorgeous man still single?), it was his date Serdzan’s (pronounced Sir-John)

revelation that he was “homoflexible,” that made me realise that, finally, RTE, instead of manipulating the licence fee paying public by skirting round certain ‘issues’ and ‘topics’ they once believed to be taboo, are now, in 2019, prepared to allow producers make ‘fly-on-the-

wall’ reality shows where participants can openly voice their sexual orientations. To be honest, I wasn’t a bit surprised when this lovely, and what was in my opinion, a well-matched pair, said “yes” in unison to a second date. And for those of you who are now scratching your heads screaming…what is she talking about? What is homoflexible? Let me try to explain. Homoflexible is when a person is emotionally and physically attracted to the same sex, but can, at some point, on occasion, be attracted to the opposite sex. Now personally, I think that’s very equal opportunities of them!

is ‘say yes to the duvet’. Look peeps, we know that both Brexit and Valentine’s Day are looming and, let’s just say a select few are getting stressed out, (I know I get the shakes every time I hear the term backstop), and understandably, some are acting the eejit by making questionable commitments, and while I’ve personally known some extremely mis-matched, odd couples in my time, marrying an inanimate object such as a dividing wall, a duvet, (who said he was previously in a steady relationship with a pillow case for years…only jokin’), the Eiffel Tower, or a rollercoaster, because they can apparently offer you something nobody else on earth can, or because it is an item you want to cross off your ‘to-do’ list, is, in my view, just plain bonkers. Of course I’m sure a mental health expert would disagree with me, and would certainly have a more sensitive and politically correct term for the condition; as well as, ahem, a long list of prescribed medications. Editor’s note: I am imposing a blanket ban on columnists’ commentary on this issue – Frank Brandon was moved to write about it last week too. Dan Dooner and Seamus Duke have been notified!

Cancer survivors had me crying tears of joy and admiration We’re practically a reality TV free household; in so much as we only tend to watch a select few shows. Mind you, I’ll personally give up that badge of honour the day someone produces a reality show that sees the entire Irish and British Governments, without prior warning or preparation, being dropped into a remote desert, along with their pathetic excuses for failing to sort out this whole Brexit c**p and attempt survival; while, at all times, being placed under the scrutiny of the voting public’s eyes! Now that I’d watch. So, last weekend, due to not being able to locate the TV remote control, and being too tired to go searching for it, I tuned into Ireland’s Got Talent. Yes…I tuned into what is probably the most over-hyped, home-produced, manipulated-for-drama TV show of them all. Mind you, when the inspirational ladies from Sea of Change, a choir made up of cancer-surviving heroines from across Ireland – who looked spectacular in black sparkly dresses – came on stage and sang This Is Me from the movie The Greatest Showman, their bodypositive message had me crying tears of joy and well as admiration. Well done girls. Respect!

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

WeekendPeople

‘VAT increase bad for patients’ health’ Local health food shops slam 23% hike  DAN DOONER

There has been strong local condemnation of a proposed VAT increase on vitamins, minerals, probiotics and fish oils, with local health food suppliers calling on the Government to carry out a review ahead of the proposed 23% charge due to come into effect on March 1st. A 0% VAT rate for food supplements has existed for the past 40 years. Majella Hannon, who runs Bees Knees health food store in Ballygar, believes the new VAT rate could have a detrimental effect on business. “What I’m worried about is my customers’ health and for the people who have been coming in here for the last five years and rely on these supplements; cancer patients, people with severe pain, depression, and parents who won’t be able to afford supplements for kids’ health due to this hike. “I have people coming in stockpiling vitamins because they’re afraid in March they won’t be able to afford them anymore. “From a business point of view, I’m self-employed, I have part-time staff at weekends and holidays who I rely on so that I can take time off to be with my family. I rely on the staff to be here but with this price hike I’m not going to have the customers here. It’s a rural shop in Ballygar and we have lovely clientele that we have built up over the five years. The customers are treated in confidence and with loyalty. I still want to be here to be able to serve them,” she said. Majella was also critical of the way in which the increase has been introduced. “We found out through our distributors just before Christmas. We were so busy that it didn’t really sink in but the rep came to me shortly after and explained what we were facing. I then had a meeting in Dublin with all the main distributors of health food and this was seen as a major problem”. At that stage distributors were doing their best to

stop the hike or to cap it at 13%. However, Majella said she has no faith that the Government will step in, and so far her appeals to local politicians appear to have fallen on deaf ears. Alison Oates, a pharmacist with Johnston’s, which is next-door to Bees Knees, believes the new rate could have a negative impact on patient care. “This will have an impact especially at this time of year when patients are taking antibiotics. I would recommend that they come to Majella and she’d recommend a probiotic, which can be really good for patients who experience sideeffects from antibiotics. “At the moment I’ve no problem recommending that they come in here because the supplements are reasonably priced but if they go up I don’t know what I’d do in that case,” she said. Alison added that any increase could put people’s health at risk. “Every patient is different and if they find a supplement that works for them they will want to continue with it but with a price increase they may not take it anymore and that in turn will affect their health”. Maureen Brosnan, who is director/manager of the Tattie Hoaker health food store in Roscommon, said the announcement was a hammer blow to small businesses. “It will close all of these stores. We are an independent health food store and have been here for 16 years but we are very worried. We just couldn’t carry it (the 23% increase) as a small business. “I sell a lot of things that people of all ages rely on during all seasons. A lot of older people rely on supplements and our customers are also given really good advice on nutrition. Doctors even send their patients here”, she said. Maureen described the 23% rise as “crazy” and said the powers that be had handled the situation badly. “They tried to sneak this increase in without us noticing on the 27th of December. You would think that common sense has to prevail but Mr. Varadkar did not help matters when he referred to health food products as ‘snake oil’”.

Bees Knees proprietor Majella Hannon pictured with customers Mary Delaney and Máire Kelly in Ballygar recently.

Health food hike: What the customers say… Mary Delaney, Ballygar “For me it’ll mean anything up to a tenner a month on the two or three items I buy for cholesterol. I’m just trying to do the right thing, keeping it natural and keeping myself out of hospital, please God. “This new VAT rate will mean that these products are going to cost me another ten euro and that’s a lot of money. “If this shop closes down I’ll have to travel to another shop fifteen miles away to get these products which means I could very well not bother and then find myself falling into ill health”.

Máire Kelly, Ballyforan “For me, it’s certainly not a luxury. I have to get

these supplements because I was diagnosed with cervical cancer eleven years ago and I’ve had an awful lot of side-effects and ill health since then. I’m just trying to do the best I can for my own health so that I can keep going. “I have to take magnesium for my bones; my hands and feet cramp up. I can’t do without the supplements so it’s not a case that I am going to be able to not buy them. I’m going to have to find the money. Today, I’m spending about €60 for these supplements so add another 23% to that! “There are people taking supplements and vitamins not because they need to for any specific reason but to stay healthy and to stay out of the healthcare system. There’s already such a burden on the health system in this country and now they’re trying to punish us for that. It makes no sense at all”.

Retail Excellence in appeal to Government Retail representative body Retail Excellence called on the Government to review the VAT increase, saying that it could cause of hundreds of job losses. Group CEO David Fitzsimons said: “Minister Paschal Donohue stated recently that he is willing to engage with stakeholders on this matter and Retail Excellence looks forward to such engagement to come to a fair solution for consumers and retailers alike”.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Celebrating Valentine’s Day ... Our ﬁve ‘must-see’ Valentine’s Day movies It’s Valentine’s Day, and that folks is the only excuse you need to sit down, overdose on chocolate and buttersmothered popcorn, watch a cheesy movie and recapture that ‘endless love’ by channelling your inner Diana Ross and Lionel Richie as your ‘two hearts that beat as one.’ Aaah! However, if you’re finding your eternal flame has now become a pathetic flickering spark, take a look at our top five romantic movie picks; we’re certain they’re guaranteed to get those home fires burning once more.

hardcore emotion Mr. Darcy to a tee in the big movie version. And, when he delivered his line, “I love you. Most ardently,” it was all I could do to hold onto me bonnet! Now, while I’m no fan of Keira Knightly, and her Elizabeth Bennet did contain a different interpretation to that displayed in Austin’s magnificent novel, her reaction to Darcy’s “I love, I love…(voice catches), I love you; and never wish to be parted from you from this day on,” always has me pausing and rewinding the DVD. Pass me the smelling salts and lead me towards the fainting couch!

Pride and Prejudice

Dirty Dancing

I’m a bit of a ‘Jane-itte’ aka a huge Jane Austin fan, and while Matthew MacFadyen, (Darcy) is hardly Colin Firth, who nailed the ‘pride’ part of the title in the 1995 TV series, MacFayden was able to portray the totally-devoid-of-any-

For its corny lines, with “I carried a watermelon,” “Nobody puts Baby in a corner,” and “Oh, come on, ladies, God wouldn’t have given you maracas if He didn’t want you to shake ’em,” being just three examples, not to mention the sexy

 MIRIAM KERINS

moves, (okay, Baby’s first disastrous merengue class aside), I’d challenge anyone not to adore Dirty Dancing. Come on now readers, who amongst us hasn’t attempted a steamy mambo following a few bevvies, whilst coyly calling your ‘lover boy,’ down the local disco. My personal favourite is Hungry Eyes…yep, been known to make a right eejit out of myself trying to generate my inner young, agile and smokin’ hot Penny Johnson, the movie’s stunning dance instructor. Ah use your imagination!

Pretty Woman I adored this movie, not for Richard Gere’s corporate raider falling for tart-with-a-heart Julia Roberts, and indeed, not for the modern-day rags to riches Cinderella story theme, but for the shopping…OMG I literally swooned during Vivian’s (Roberts), shopping spree up and down Rodeo Drive baby! Why? Because she got to

max out someone else’s credit card! Pure class!

Romance at the Abbey this Valentine’s ... Or perhaps you are planning a romantic engagement?

Ps. . .

The Bridges of Madison County Give me a moment while I swoon as I remember Clint Eastwood’s no ties, no plans, photographer/ drifter Robert Kincaid who, one day, out of the blue, rocked up in his beat up pick-up and swept fed-up but fiercely-loyal-to-herfamily, Meryl Streep’s farmer’s wife Francesca Johnson off her feet in 1965 Iowa! The movies’ mix of virtue intertwined with eroticism (I mean, who’d have thought the innocent offer of a cup of iced tea would lead to such a fast, furious and alas, brief love affair), make this a must-watch seductive melodrama. Tip: Have the hankies on standby ladies.

Lady and the Tramp Last but by no means least…Disney doggy-coming-of-age classic, Lady and the

I loveyou

Remember “Valentine’s Day” is on Thursday February 14th next. Why not treat the loved one in your life to a Romantic Night away in the magical 4* Abbey Hotel Roscommon. Enjoy dinner in our awardwinning restaurant, followed by cocktails in our bar. Diners can enjoy a set menu with chocolates and a glass of Prosecco for only €40 per person. Booking is advised, tel. 090 6626240 or reserve your table by email to restaurant@abbeyhotel.ie Special B&B Rate for the night is only €79, (based on 2 people sharing), which includes a bottle of sparkling wine, chocolates and complimentary use of the pool and award winning leisure facilities. Follow the Abbey Hotel on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Tramp. Released in 1955, this meatballs and spaghetti love story of two adorable fur babies from different sides of the track just melts this animal lover’s heart. For me, this movie is brimming with nostalgia, especially the scene where the highly

respectable and sheltered Cocker Spaniel Lady shockingly finds herself expecting a litter of puppies, (spay and neuter, readers), and, as the daddy, Jock, an adorable Scottie is momentarily detained elsewhere, two of Lady’s more respectable male doggy

pals offer to do the decent thing and ‘marry her,’ thus removing the 1950’s stigma of her becoming a single mother. Altogether now, aaahh! Myself and himself (yes he will), are gonna watch it whilst cuddling our own fur babies…one of whom is a Scottie.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

WeekendPeople

Hamrock’s

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 9th February:

Shane Moore

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Aileen Powell and Cathal Callinan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Fireside miscellany in Murray’s tonight A special evening featuring a miscellany of songs and stories will take place in Murray’s Bar, Knockcroghery, this evening, Thursday, February 7th starting at 9 pm. Hosted by South Roscommon Singers Circle, the event will include the Roscommon launch of a collection of Irish memories, meanderings and history, written and compiled by Knockcroghery native, Denis O’Higgins, under the title ‘Fireside Miscellany’. Denis was born into a large family on a small farm in Moneymore, Knockcroghery, where, at the age of nine, he had

to forgo his childhood overnight, following his father’s untimely death at just forty-five years of age, as he was called upon to shoulder the added share of the farm work. In later years his professional work took him to Monaghan, where he now lives in retirement with his wife Josephine, who will also attend the launch in Knockcroghery. Josephine is a native of Monaghan and her voice can occasionally be heard reading her selected chosen stories on Sunday Miscellany on RTÉ Radio 1. In its cache of short stories, ‘Fireside Miscellany’

takes us from the era of the horse and cart to the present day. The nostalgia takes the reader on a history trip around Ireland and there are stories of notable people, characters and special places embedded between the covers. On the night, Denis will read some stories from the book and his wife Josephine will read a selection from her own collection; there’ll be songs from SRSC and maybe a surprise or two as well. So please come along and support this interesting and fun-filled evening of Fireside Miscellany. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Telephone: 090 6626225 Saturday 9th February:

6 NATIONS PROMOTION JJ Harlows will be offering all customers

6 +1 FREE ON ALL DRINKS for the duration of the tournament during all games and FREE PIZZA during the Ireland games. #COYBIG

Sunday 10th February:

BLACK ISLAND

Jane Gould, Jeff Hockley, Steve Gould and Christine Hannigan at Burns Night celebrations in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen. Niamh Plover and Christine Hannigan at Burns Night celebrations in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen.

a blend of Acoustic Classics Combined with Subtle Harmonies.

Faces & Places 6PM IN THE MIDDLE BAR

Spells Bar Ballaghaderreen Orla Hawkins, Orla Murphy and Maureen Wills at Burns Night celebrations in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen.

Margaret and John Carty at Burns Night celebrations in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen.

* 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! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries i

Brendan Shanley and John Regan at Burns Night celebrations in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen.

Louise Madden, Mary Quinn, Sean Burnett and Elsie Hockley at Burns Night celebrations in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

WeekendPeople

Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Heather O’Connor and Ann Doyle.

Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Elaine Corbett, Maureen Naughton, Eimear Uí Chéallaigh, Aileen Moran, Denise Galvin and Eimear Meyers.

Faces & Places Pics: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Serena Dolan, Teresa Brennan and Sharon Kearney.

Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Michael and Marie Murray.

The Brewery Roscommon town

Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Anne McGuire and Bernice McGuire.

Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Denise Treanor and Margaret McGuire. Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Monica Lach and Alanna Hanly.

Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Katie Flanagan, Lorraine Brennan, Aidan Ward and Bryan English.

Pictured in The Brewery, Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Enda Kearney, Aidan Dolan and Aidan Brennan.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

WeekendPeople

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Sue and Tom Madden and Sandra Hughes.

Faces & Places Pics: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Tom and Anne Raftery.

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Joe Keane and Steven Fox.

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Eamon and Carmel Moran.

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Opheliá and Holly Ellis and Catherine Fahy.

Anne & Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Glenamaddy

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were John and Annie Tully.

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Bridie Connelly and Sarah Raftery.

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Joanna and Gerard Moran.

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Margaret Giblin and Catherine McDonagh.

Pictured at Anne and Tom Raftery’s 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy last Friday were Catherine Fahy, Andrea Connolly, Anne and Tom Raftery, Padraic, Fidelma and Michelle Raftery.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

WeekendPeople

Pictured are recent runners-up in the Credit Union Schools Quiz Competition A U-11 age category, St. Mary’s NS, Knockcroghery. Left to right: Grace Furey, Aaron Lawrence, Dáire Kilcline, Christopher Feerick pictured with Lorna Tully, Roscommon Credit Union, John Devaney, Chairperson of Roscommon Credit Union, and Paula Satchwell, Roscommon Credit Union.

Pictured are the recent winners of the Credit Union Schools Quiz Competition A U-11 age category, Abbeycarton NS, Elphin. Pictured are Stephen Kielty, Ciaran Dorr, Aodan Sharkey and James Geraghty with Roscommon Credit Union manager Bernie Moran and Roscommon Credit Union Chairperson, John Devaney.

Schools Quiz success for Gaelscoil and Abbeycartron! The recent All-Ireland Credit Union Schools Quiz local finals saw Gaelscoil de hÍde retain their title in the U-13 age group while Abbeycartron NS were crowned winners of the U-11 age group. The local round took place at Kilbride Community Centre last Saturday and 30 teams competed on the day for the honour of representing their school and Roscommon Credit Union at the Regional Finals on March 3rd in Athlone Springs Hotel, Athlone. “Now in its 28th year, the AllIreland Credit Union quiz is one of the highlights of Roscommon Credit Union’s year,” said Bernie Moran, Credit Union manager, who oversaw proceedings on the day. The long-running quiz tests brainpower and allows for friendly competition at all stages. This year’s

theme ‘The Power of 4’ aims to promote teamwork and collaboration among school children, helping to foster from a young age the skills necessary for successful teamwork in the workplace. On the day, an impressive 120 school children competed across two age categories – U-11 Competition A and U-13 Competition B – answering a series of questions covering topics such as geography, history, music, literature and sport. This year’s event was a hotly-contested affair in both competitions, with a nerve-wracking tiebreaker round to award Gaelscoil de hÍde the title of Competition B winners, retaining their title, followed closely by Tulsk NS and Tisrara NS, Four Roads, as very worthy runners-up. Last year’s Competition A winners, Gaelscoil de hÍde narrowly

missed out again on top spot, with Abbeycarton NS, Elphin taking top honours! Gaelscoil de hÍde and St. Mary’s NS of Knockcroghery were runners-up in a closely fought competition. Abbeycarton and Gaelscoil de hÍde will now compete at the regional finals in early March. John Devaney, Chairperson of Roscommon Credit Union commended the enthusiasm and vast knowledge displayed by the schoolchildren on the day. “On behalf of Roscommon Credit Union I would like to thank parents, teachers and their schools for all their hard work preparing the students for the quiz! I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all involved in organising the local competition and wish both teams progressing to the next stage the very best of luck!”

Pictured are the recent winners of the Credit Union Schools Quiz Competition B U-13 age category, Gaelscoil de hÍde. Pictured are Aaron Mac an tSaoir, Conor Mac Piarais, Liam Ó Neachtain and Nathan Mac an Bhaird with John Devaney, Chairperson of Roscommon Credit Union, Mary Flynn, Roscommon Credit Union, Bernie Moran, Manager, Roscommon Credit Union.

Pictured are recent runners-up in the Credit Union Schools Quiz Competition A U-11 age category, Gaelscoil de Híde. Pictured are Daniel Howe, Aoibheann Ní Chathmhaoíl, Myles Mac Shearraigh and Cormac Pléimeann with John Devaney, Chairperson of Roscommon Credit Union, Catherine Nugent, Roscommon Credit Union, and Mary T Molloy, adjudicator on the day, Roscommon Credit Union

Pictured are recent runners-up in the Credit Union Schools Quiz Competition B U-13 age category, Tulsk NS. Pictured are Katie Martin, Conran Finan, Orla Conroy and Eanna Moylan with Pat McDonald, board member, Roscommon Credit Union, Serena O’Farrell, Roscommon Credit Union and John Devaney, Chairperson of Roscommon Credit Union.

Pictured are recent runners-up in the Credit Union Schools Quiz Competition B U-13 age category, Tisrara NS, Four Roads. Pictured are Conor Morris, Jennifer Coyle, Maria Bolger and Hugh Coyle with Bernie Moran, Manager of Roscommon Credit Union, John Devaney, Chairperson, Roscommon Credit Union and Anthony Lee, Board Member, Elphin Credit Union.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

P lanning your Wedding Day

When it comes to 2019 weddings,  MIRIAM KERINS

We all adore a good wedding, especially if it’s an unusually creative one. And, thanks to an abundance of inventive and innovative Roscommon couples who are set to tie the knot this year, we’re confident there will be no shortage of fun, fabulous, ‘must attend’ ceremonies happening across the county this season. And so, if you’re lucky enough to be one half of a happy, resourceful, productive pair, and you’re about to say ‘I do’ this spring/summer, before you put the finishing touches to your big day, we’ve got a few 2019 tips and trends you might like to take note of.

Invitations They’re unique to every couple; however, with personalisation being the key, we thought we’d alert you to the latest trend of ‘invitation-viavideo’ messages. Just select

your favourite photos, preferably ones that set the theme and tone, (don’t forget to add filters), add a personal verbal message, not forgetting some text to give guests plenty of details regarding the venue, and press send. Seriously… how fun-tastic are you?

Pomp… It’s nearly a year to that big event; yes when Meghan married Harry, and this means the whole pomp and pageantry of their big day hasn’t yet worn thin. So brides and grooms, think bling, think big, think billowy and think bouncy, and you’ve got it covered. Oh, and while you’re at it, to add that regal touch, don’t forget the big tiara.

Arrive in style! Now while we’re not too sure about this one, although we bet it will make for great photo-ops, the must-have

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

P lanning your Wedding Day

personalisation is the key entrance/exit cette saison de mariage, (okay, we’re trying to add panache and flair here…it means this wedding season), is to arrive or leave in a flash of colour, with cloudy smoke-bombs being the desired fun-prop on every 2019 bride and groom’s list. Our top tip: The effect is best captured during the daylight hours, so perhaps use it to make your grand entrance.

Colours… According to those in the know, i.e. us lot here at your favourite family newspaper, Living Coral is Pantone’s ‘colour of the year for 2019’. Now while you may wish to be on-trend, and while coral is a beautifully fresh tone, we’d imagine basing your entire palate on this hue may be a tad boring, so our advice is to mix it up a bit by adding a zesty lemon and lime or hues of powder blue or girly pink to inject a touch of romance.

Professional touch… Provide a pro…a hair and make-up pro that is. Every guest who dances out their fabulous up-do channelling their inner Beyoncé will appreciate a visit to the ladies’ room for a slash of lippy, a touch of mascara and a spritz of hairspray applied by a professional stylist to help keep them showcase that just-stepped-off-the-catwalk look that’s guaranteed to last them well into the after-hours party.

An extra treat? For an extra treat, and in order to make your guests’ experience really memorable, you could also install a tarot card reader or a palm reader in the bathroom to keep them enthralled and entertained while their stylist attends to their hair/make-up needs.

Glasson Country House Hotel – A wedding venue with a difference!

Weddings

f you are looking for a wedding hotel with a difference, with stunning panoramic lake views and superb food, then you have to pay a visit to Glasson Country House Hotel. Situated just outside the quaint village of Glasson, the hotel could be your ideal wedding venue. Your wedding party and guests start off with magnificent views over the inner lakes of Lough Ree and the golf course as you drive down the avenue, with its ancient beech trees. The arrivals reception room, offering privacy for your guests, has a unique feeling of spaciousness and light created by the floor-to-ceiling glass and the feature spiral staircase. It is the perfect entrance to the purpose-built banqueting suite upstairs. In addition to the floor-to-ceiling glass, there is a spacious balcony on which you can relax after your delicious meal, designed to make the most of the superb panoramic views. Let the wedding experts at Glasson help you arrange your special day – they are more than happy to tailor their sample packages to suit your own particular requirements. Your wedding guests can enjoy four-star luxury with the added bonus of being able to choose from a private cruise, a game of golf, or an on-site massage for the day after! Glasson Country House Hotel has been receiving consistently excellent feedback, and you are invited to carry out your own research on websites such as www.tripadvisor.ie or www.weddingsonline.ie. Glasson who won the prestigious ‘Travellers’ Choice Winner’ Award. The whole team at Glasson is committed to looking after each and every wedding couple as

Lim numb ited er Summ of Key er 20 Dates 19 availa ble

WEDDING SHOWCASE Sunday 17th February, 2.00 - 5.00 p.m.

well as their families and guests! The Glasson Country House Hotel philosophy is shaped by the fact that the venue remains a family owned and managed property. Confirm your booking at Glasson and you can relax knowing they will take care of your every need on your special day. For more information call the hotel on 0906485120, email info@glassoncountryhouse.ie to arrange a private viewing, or log on towww. glassoncountryhouse.ie to register your wedding enquiry details. Do get in contact with us, and we would be delighted to have the opportunity to show you around the premises and to discuss your own specific preferences in more detail – we’re here to help you enjoy this very special time in your lives!

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

P lanning your Wedding Day Weddings at

NEW!

ckages 2019/20 pa the day! on ed ch un la

WEDDING FAIR Sun, 24th Feb 2-5pm 090 644 4444 | www.athlonespringshotel.com info@athlonespringshotel.com

Imagine…. perfect beginnings at Hodson Bay Hotel HODSON BAY HOTEL

Wedding Fair Sunday 10th of February From 2-5pm Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more information or give us a call on 09064 42000 @hodsonbay @hodsonbayhotel

Our dedicated Wedding team warmly welcomes you to our Winter Wedding Open Day which will take place on Sunday, the 10th of February (2-5 pm). Let us introduce you to our newly-refurbished ballroom – the final piece of the puzzle to our exclusive Wedding Wing. At Hodson Bay Hotel, it is the little touches that allow us to create the perfect moments for your wedding day to mark the beginning of your life together. As your family and friends raise a glass to you, our dedicated Wedding Management Team will stand proudly by, ensuring no stone is left unturned to provide you with the perfect celebration. Hodson Bay Hotel has earned its reputation as one of Ireland’s leading wedding venues. Offering a spectacular location on the beautiful shores of Lough Ree, elegant ban-

queting suites, excellent food and service combined with the wealth of experience and dedication of our team, Hodson Bay Hotel will strive to create the wedding reception of your dreams. Visit us on Sunday, 10th of February (2-5 pm) to see what our Wedding experience can offer for you Big Day! Enjoy food demonstrations with our chef, experience live bands, chat with partnered suppliers, meet our Wedding team and much more… For further information or to RSVP to our Winter Wedding Open Day, please contact our Wedding Sales Manager, Erica Kelly, on 090-6442000 or weddings@hodsonbayhotel.com

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Classifieds

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

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

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

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

BLOCK AND BRICKLAYING

SEAN NAUGHTON

CARPENTRY CARPENTRY

Honest, reliable Carpenter available for roofing and first fix work. New houses and extensions catered for also slating + PVC/Fascia/Soffit Painting & Decorating + house clearances Contact: 087 2798704 ALL WORK GUARANTEED

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Ballinaheglish

BRICK + BLOCKLAYING Call Sean on

087 2421552 CAREER ADVICE CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6630760

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

Complete Chimney Services

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

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

087 2798704

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

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

The local paper! OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

CHIMNEY CLEANING CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIROPODIST

DC Computer Services

POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR POWER WASHING

Provided in the comfort of your own home

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

Kathleen Wynne

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

Fergal 086 1016899

MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

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

For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

CHIROPRACTOR CHIROPODIST

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

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

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

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

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

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

COMPUTERS

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

VHI and Laya Covered

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

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

 CALVES FOR SALE: All breeds of top quality calves. In fresh weekly and are available all year round, sold from Department approved premises. Calves can be bought to order. Call Paddy on 087 4116003

COTTAGE MARKET

 FOR SALE: Round bales of Bailey Straw. Tel: 087 7772546

 The Cottage Market Strokestown: Sunday, February 10th, Percy French Hotel, 12pm - 4pm. Organic sourdough bread, homemade jam, unique handmade cards, children’s books, crafts, knitwear and organic vegetables. Enquiries: 089 9725741.

FENCING/GATES

DRIVING LESSONS

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

● ●

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JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Tel: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

Tel: 087 2172281

Des Kelly Fencing

MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

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

EDT Lessons Available

087 2346364

Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

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

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

FARMING  A B AT TO I R S E R V I C E AVA I L A B L E : Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715  FOR SALE: Oats and Barley for sale, available in tonne bags €230 per tonne. Tel: 086 1945562

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

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 08 February 2019

Classifieds FARMING  CALVES FOR SALE: Continental, Angus and Hereford calves for sale. Delivery available. Contact Darragh. Tel: 086 8713864

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

GARDENING

CORBETT TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING Dangerous Tree Removal ● Wood Chipping ● Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped ● General Maintenance ● Fully Insured Contact Alan on

●

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

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

087 6558597 HOLISTIC JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy • Dry needling • Thai Massage Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

087 9201818 Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

Phone John on

087 2860428

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

JOE HEALY

Phone:

087 2721193 DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE • Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

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

Sports & Remedial Massage Therapist Phone Oleg Doroshkevich on:

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

090 6634909 PAINTING & DECORATING

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

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

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

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

MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN

CONTACT JOHN ● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

086 4679798

& orthopaedic sports massage

For all your decorating needs

Appointments with Anne Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday.

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

Molloy’s Pharmacy, The Harrison Centre, Roscommon

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

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

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Our deadline for receipt of Family Notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday. We cannot guarantee publication after this time.

Fitted Kitchens handpainted Wooden floors sanded and finished Tried & Trusted Painting Projects since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 REFLEXOLOGY REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI) African & Classical Reflexology Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Eczema • Migraine • Back Problems • Infertility • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Insomnia • Stress • Exam Stress • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Colic • Pain Relief • Emotional Disorders - Ante Natal Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Infant/Child Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED 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

 2 BED HOUSE TO RENT: Ballintubber area, O.F.C.H. and solid fuel, would suit professionals, references required. Contact Joe: 086 4012430  SHOP UNIT TO LET: Shop unit to let at Circular Road, Roscommon, 1400sq ft. Ample parking. Tel: 086 2563000

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

 STORAGE UNIT TO LET: Storage unit to let at Circular Road, Roscommon, 1200sq ft. Easy access. Tel: 086 2563000  TO RENT: 4-5 bedroom house in Oran, multi-stove central heating, suitable for professiional or family. Viewing by appointment only. Tel: 086 4458840  FOR SALE: Cottage for quick sale in Williamstown on the Roscommon/Galway border in a peaceful countryside setting. The Cottage Boasts: 2 bedrooms, oil central heating and a 16kw stove including a bathroom with shower. Outside: There is a very large shed measuring 30ft x 20ft x 14ft which makes it very useful for a variety of uses. There is also a wooden shed and a Polytunnel. The Lawns: Have recently been professionally laid and the driveway recovered with stone. All offers over 110k will be given serious consideration. Tel: 087 4562228 any time  TO RENT: Newly refurbished 4 bedroom house, located within 5 minutes walking distance of Roscommon town centre. Available immediately. €925 per month. Tel: 087 9963655 (After 6 pm)  TO LET: Retail Unit to let in The Square, Roscommon town. Reasonable rent. Tel: 087 4634888  TO LET: Luxury house to let in Castlemanor, suit professional family. References required. Tel: 087 2765421

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Application is being made to Roscommon County Council for permission as follows: Convert first and second floor levels overlooking Main Street, from a previous private dwelling, to 2No x 2 Bedroom Apartments, over existing Restaurant and Liquor Store. Change of use of rear stores to 3No x 2 Bedroom Town Houses and 1No x 2 Bedroom Apartment and provide Refuse Bin Storeroom at Ground Floor Level and to include the creation of a Roof Garden at First Floor Level to provide Communal Open Space for the Proposed Development and also to carry out all ancillary site works and services including the connections of services to the Public Facilities where applicable at Main Street, Roscommon town. Signed: David Molloy 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 on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Planning permission is being sought on behalf of Dermot and Deirdre Siggins to (a) retain changes to the existing dwelling house from that previously granted, (b) demolish existing garage and shed attached to the side of the existing house, (c) demolish existing and porch to the front of the existing house, (d) construct a single storey extension to the side of existing dwelling house (e) construct a new porch to the front of the existing dwelling house and all associated site services at Castlestrange, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Eugene Mulcaire Architects, 21 Middle Street, Galway. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Mary Kilduff, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for the demolition of an existing single storey shed and extension to an existing dwelling at Moore South, Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Mary Kilduff 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 relevant planning authority during its public opening hours. The 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 day of receipt by the authority of the application.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Patricia and Richard O’Brien, intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a dwelling house with a wastewater treatment system and domestic garage, and connections to services and all other associated site works at Farbreagues Td, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090)6634421 Fax: (090)663423 Email: info@collinsboydeng. 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 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS 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 carry out all associated site development works at Lismeehy, Strokestown, Roscommon. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 662795 Andy 086 3646210 James 087 8228529 info@morrislohan.ie. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Marie Farrell am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct boarding kennels and carry out all associated site development works at Curry, Strokestown, Roscommon, F42 TK25 Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 662795 Andy 086 3646210 James 087 8228529 info@morrislohan.ie. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Niall and Breda Cashin are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to re-model and extend fire damaged house and carryout all associated site development works at Graffoge Td, Scramoge, Co. Roscommon, F42 R798. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 662795 Andy 086 3646210 James 087 8228529 info@morrislohan.ie. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Classifieds PLANNINGS 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 proprietary treatment system and associated site development works at Shankoagh, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 662795 Andy 086 3646210 James 087 8228529 info@morrislohan.ie The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I John Mount am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to install a proprietary treatment system with percolation area and associated site development works at Corragarve, Elphin, Roscommon. F45 H720. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 662795 Andy 086 3646210 James 087 8228529 info@morrislohan.ie The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Brian Larkin T/A Centre Point Autos Ltd intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for display area for sale of vehicles, demolition of existing roadside boundary wall, Proposed Fence/Bollard’s to boundaries and associated works at Roscommon West Business Park, Ballypheasan, Roscommon. Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinmore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway Phone: 090 6624681 Mob: 087 635 8949 Email: sblake2006@gmail.com This planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the planning authority during its opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application by the planning authority.

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL NO 16. THE PADDOCK, ATHLEAGUE TOWNLAND, CO. ROSCOMMON We hereby apply to Roscommon County 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. 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 I am applying for planning permission for erection of dwelling house and domestic garage with sewerage treatment plant and percolation area, and ancillary site development works at Cornageeha, Brideswell, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Edel Dolan 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 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: Anthony Doolin, Lisnamult Residents Association 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.

SITUATIONS VACANT  APPRENTICE MECHANIC: Wanted Apprentice Mechanic with some experience or fully qualified mechanic in Elphin/ Strokestown/Tulsk area. Good working conditions. Box No: 2007 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon  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  FULL-TIME/PART-TIME CHILDCARE PRACTITIONER: Required for busy crèche in Glenamaddy, Co. Galway. For further information please contact Marilyn on: 086 3704193 or Private mail on Facebook to First Steps Full Day Creche.

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Petr Musiolek for planning permission for the retention of revisions to front entrance, revisions to front porch and front door and minor alterations to the rear elevation, 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.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

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

087 2727888

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849

TOMMY GILLIGAN

CASTLEREA/TULSK: Leaving/Junior Cert, Irish, French, Maths. Private tuition in your own home. Tel: 086 3282437

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

 GRINDS: (Castlerea). Irish, French and German, oral and exam paper technique, higher and ordinary level, LC and Jnr. Cert. Tel: 087 3515985

Call car direct

(086) 2714879

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

ONLY €80 Day 1 Functions & Calculus Day 2 Probabilit y & Statistics

Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

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

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

2018 SEASONED TURF also Peat Bedding Available

(All areas)

JOHN BEATTIE

USEFUL SERVICES

SERVICE

086 2721812

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

 FUEL - FIREWOOD: High quality seasoned hardwood timber split and suitable for stoves and open-fire. Available in bulk bags and 25kg bag. Very competitively priced and delivery can be discussed. Call 0863312411 after 6pm.

OIL BOILER

Tel: Donal

– Contact –

 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

CRASH REPAIRS

USEFUL SERVICES  ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

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

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

 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.

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS:

HOME MAINTENANCE

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

 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

To have your advert seen by over 70,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper! OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

Chris’s Locksmith Service SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

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

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064

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

BLINDS

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

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090 9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

DRY LINING

DRY LINING ROSCOMMON Attic Insulation Suspended Ceilings ● Metal Stud Partitions ● Plaster Boarding Contact: ●

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089 4749447 A L L WO R K G UA R E N T E E D

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors ● Burglary repairs ● Window locks ● Cylinder replacement ● Hinge replacement ● Glass replacement ● Lock replacement ● Window and door seals ● Window and door handles supplied and fitted ● Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.

Tel: 085 2191234 email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

GLASS

Boyle Glass Ballinameen, Boyle,

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

- STOVE GLASS

Gerry Monaghan

TARMACADAM CContact: GGerry M Monaghan h

SERVICES: • Tarmacadam • Kerbing • Patio • Domestic & Commercial

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

ESTABLISHED 1978

• Circular Road, Roscommon

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

Many different sizes available, all in excellent condition

- Fire Rated Glass Find us on Facebook/boyleglass

Visit our Showroom with your sizes you will not be disappointed Saturdays only 9am -1pm

CONTACT 090-6626753 • www.seandoylewindows.ie • info@seandoylewindows.ie

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

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

STEPHEN HOARE • Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’ KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892

CARPENTRY

FARMING

Eugene Quinn

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Carpentry

TEL: (090) 96 88606

• First and Second Fix • Roofing • Timber Flooring

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

• Dry Lining

Tel: 086 3686669

NO JOB TOO SMALL

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New clients welcome Established 1990

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Vaccinations Pet Passports Pain Management Neutering & Dentals Digital X-ray

DONAMON Tarmacadam Specialising in Kerbing, Tar and Chips and Tarmacadam. Machine or hand laid.

Contact Damian at (086) 4007158 VEHICLE SERVICE AND REPAIRS

CLEANING

CLEANING SERVICES • ROSCOMMON Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

Office: 094 9659428 Mobile: 087 2543722 24 Hour Service

TARMACADAM

Sean Doyle & Sons Ltd

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

INSTALLATION

GlenamaddyVeterinary Clinic F45 F430

www.glenamaddyveterinaryclinic.ie

08383

LARGE STOCK OF MISFIT WINDOWS AND DOORS FOR SALE

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417

The Right Vet for your Pet

WINDOWS/DOORS

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

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uPVC Window and Door Locksmith We are the only Licensed Window and Door Locksmith in Roscommon

Tel: 071 96 68368 - Stained Decorative

BRENDAN DOOLIN

VETERINARY

LOCKSMITH

WINDOWS/DOORS

Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE AND REPAIRS AVAILABLE LOCALLY Is ‘check engine’ light showing on your dashboard? Is your car down on power/not running as well as it could be? Need to know what’s causing the problem? I can read faults recorded on your ECU, (ABS, Airbags, etc.,) & give you the fault codes & provide advice. Covering most makes & models, including Electric, Hybrid & 4X4 etc., Diagnostic prices start at €25

Phone: 087 2994006 DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES BYRNE Malachy & Margaret (Peggy)

DUNNE Padraic

Ballyglass, Rahara, Co. Roscommon

Lisnamult, Roscommon Who died on 12th February 2018 (1st Anniversary)

Malachy who died on 28th December 2017 (1st Anniversary)

Margaret who died on 4th February 2018 (1st Anniversary)

The family of the late Malachy and Margaret Byrne would like to thank sincerely all who helped us in any way during this past year and all who commiserated with the family. Thanks to all who helped at our home, by providing food and in other ways. Thank you to all the Home Helps and the medical staff of Roscommon Hospital, Portiuncula Hospital and Roscommon Medical Centre. Thanks to the grave diggers and to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for your care and professionalism. Our gratitude to Fr. Ray Milton and those who concelebrated the Masses. Will those who think of Malachy and Margaret today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered, loved and never forgotten by all your family. Mass has been offered.

MONTH’S MIND MULLOOLY James Carrowmore, Kilteevan, Roscommon

WARD John James

As we lovingly remember Padraic on the First Anniversary of his death, his wife Mary, son Niall, daughters Ursula and Caroline would like to thank all those who sympathised with us on our sad loss. Sincere thanks to our relatives, friends, neighbours and colleagues for their kindness and support at the time of Padraic’s passing and those who continued to support us throughout the year. Thank you to all Padraic’s good friends and all the people he met through the Roscommon and Leitrim Pool Leagues for all your kind words and messages. We thank all those who called to the house, attended the Funeral and sent Mass Cards and flowers. Thank you to all the people who brought food to the house, it was much appreciated. A sincere thank you to Fr. Joe Poole and Fr. John Cullen for calling to our home and celebrating Padraic’s Funeral Mass also Carmel McLoughlin for her lovely music in the Church. We wish to thank Pat, Tom and John of Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism and personal attention throughout the Funeral days. Thank you to the gravediggers for preparing Padraic’s final resting place with such care and attention. Also thank you to the musicians for the moving tribute at the graveside. Thank you to Dr. Brennan, Mary and Liz in Roscommon Health Centre for the care Padraic received down through the years. Thank you to Dr. O’Mara and his team and all the nurses and staff of Roscommon University Hospital for the great care Padraic received. We are sincerely grateful. Thanks also to all the staff of Galway University Hospital. Thank you to Deirdre, Rose Marie and all the staff of the Cardiac Rehab Unit, Roscommon where Padraic received great care and support. Thank you to the staff of Hannon’s Hotel for the lovely meal following Padraic’s Burial. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually we hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as a sincere token of our appreciation. Your life was a blessing Your memory a treasure You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure

The family of the late James Mullooly, Carrowmore, Kilteevan, Roscommon wish to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown during James’ recent illness and passing. We offer heartfelt gratitude to all the friends, neighbours and sympathisers who visited our home, attended the Wake, Funeral and Burial services and all those who offered emotional and practical support. Thank you to everyone who phoned, travelled long distances, sent cards, messages and made charitable donations. We are very grateful to all those who assisted with the Funeral arrangements, coordinated traffic and those who provided catering at Lanesboro Parish Hall. A very special word of thanks to those who prepared James’ grave at Rathcline Cemetery. Sincere thanks to all who participated in James’ Funeral Mass, to Fr. Sean Beirne, Fr. Michael Reilly, Fr. Tom Kearney, Deacon Seamus Talbot, musicians, readers and servers. We are also very grateful to the team at Smyth’s Funeral Directors, Roscommon for their professionalism and sensitivity. Our gratitude also to James’ many colleagues and friends who provided a special guard of honour on his final journey. Heartfelt thanks to the medical professionals in ICU at Portiuncula Hospital and Galway University Hospital for the loving care and compassion shown to James and his family during his final months. Their many kindnesses will never be forgotten. To all our family members, friends and neighbours who helped in so many ways during this difficult time, we are eternally grateful. In order to express our sincere thanks to all, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions at the Month’s Mind Mass at St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 10th February at 10am.

Padraic’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 16th February at 7pm.

MERRIMAN Alice

KEANE TONY

Ard-Na-Gréine, Roscommon (5th Anniversary) Died 4th February, 2014

Milltown, Castleplunkett (9th Anniversary)

In God’s care you rest above, In our hearts you rest with love.

Always loved and remembered by the Merriman family.

In loving memory of Tony Keane, who died on the 7th February 2010. R.I.P. Treasured memories forever of you, Today, tomorrow and all life through.

Always remembered by his brothers Des and Martin, sisters-in-law Marian and Mary, nieces, nephew and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Paul’s Church, Kilmurray, on Sunday, 10th February at 10am.

Cornaveagh, Creggs, Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

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

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

Always loved by your grandchildren Aidan, Amanda and Laura. Anniversary Mass will be on Saturday, 9th February at 7pm in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet.

THANKSGIVINGS PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For urgent need... Our dear martyr and protector, Saint Expedite, you who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed. I beg you to intercede before the Holy Trinity, that by your grace my request will be granted. (Clearly express what you want and ask him to find a way to get it to you.) May I receive your blessings and favours. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. If Saint Expedite grants your request, place fresh flowers beside his statue in your home or in the church. Also place an ad in the newspaper thanking Saint Expedite, so that his name and fame will grow. M.K. UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. A.M.K.

MCCORMACK JOHNNY Roscommon Town and formerly of Grange, Four Mile House and Ballybeg, Strokestown Who died on the 7th January, 2019

We the family of the late Johnny McCormack, would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all those who sympathised with us in our recent bereavement. Thank you to all our relatives, neighbours and friends for their kindness, support and help around the time of the Funeral. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who called to the house, sat up at night, and attended Smyth’s Funeral Home, his Funeral Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Four-Mile-House and Burial. We extend our thanks to all who sent cards, messages, floral tributes and to those who travelled long distances to be with us. We would like to thank the staff of the Primary Care Centre, Roscommon in particular Nurse Margaret Sexton for her dedication and care shown to Johnny over the past number of years. We are also extremely grateful to the staff of Roscommon University Hospital and Galway University Hospital who were so kind and caring to Johnny during his last few days. Sincere thanks to Fr. Browne , Fr. Fallon, Fr. Poole and Deacon Seamus Talbot, who celebrated a beautiful Funeral Mass. Thank you to Carmel McLoughlin whose musical arrangements and beautiful singing enhanced the Funeral Mass. We wish to extend our sincere gratitude to the gravediggers who carefully prepared Dad’s final resting place alongside his beloved wife Mary. Thank you to the management and staff at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon for the beautiful food provided after the Funeral. A special thank you to Smyth’s Undertakers for their exceptional professionalism and consideration over those difficult few days. As it is not possible to thank everyone individually we hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Johnny’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 9th February, at 8.15pm in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE FRIDAY PRAYER Almighty Arms of Jesus before You I come with all my faith beg you for comfort in my difficult situations. Do not forsake me. Good Jesus, open your doors, in my way that Your Almighty Arms will open and close as you desire to give me the tranquillity that I so desire (Mention requests). Oh my God, please receive that supplication from a wounded heart that is always fighting for me. With Your divine power never let me scramble for want of help. Almighty Jesus assist me to find a shelter in your celestial country ever. Amen. Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in thee (3 times). This prayer must be started on Friday and said for 15 days with a lighted candle, please use the same candle each day and put it out after you say the prayer on the last day (Friday). Let the candle burn out to the end. (This is a very powerful prayer that when said with sincere faith from the heart will be answered. Make sure to pass on this prayer to all people who need it in their times of difficulties. Don’t forget the thanksgiving for all prayers answered). M.H.

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.

PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH O glorious Saint Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to you we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the benign heart of Jesus all the helps and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly for the grace of a happy death and the special favour we now request. (mention your request). O guardian of the Word Incarnate, we feel animated with confidence that your prayers in our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ and for the glory of His name, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions. Amen. M.H.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES REYNOLDS Sadie & Harry

KELLY Con

FLANAGAN TAYLOR Margaret

Clooncullane, Elphin, Co. Roscommon (2nd and 25th Anniversaries) In loving memory of Sadie, who died on 14th January, 2017, and Harry, who died on 20th February, 1994

Marian Crescent, Lisnamult (formerly Tonlagee) (12th Anniversary) Who died on 6th February 2007

Wallington, Surrey, England and formerly Four Mile House, Roscommon Who died on 7th February 2018 Aged 53. (R.I.P.) (1st Anniversary)

Mam and Dad, You are the Angels now, it was time to say goodbye Yet still, it’s hard to hide the pain, no matter how we try For you were such special parents, with lots of love to share And knowing you are no longer here, is very hard to bear And though the grief will pass and time will help to heal the pain Somehow life without you Mam and Dad, will never be the same Quietly today your memories are kept No need for words, we will never forget When thoughts go back, as they always do We treasure the memories we have of you

Always lovingly remembered by their sons, daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and families. Anniversary Mass will be offered in St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin on Sunday, 10th February at 11.30am. In loving memory of

MULHERN Tom Convent Road, Roscommon Who died on 8th February 2000 (19th Anniversary)

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

Sadly missed by Ann and family.

HEVICAN Mary Bridget Lisnamult, Roscommon (23rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of a wonderful father DAD If we could have a lifetime wish, and one dream come true. We would pray to God with all our hearts, just to see and talk to you. A thousand words won’t bring you back, We know because we’ve tried. And neither will a thousand tears, we know because we’ve cried. You left behind our broken hearts and precious memories too. But we never wanted memories, we only wanted you.

Forever loved, sadly missed and always remembered by your son Tommy and daughter-in-law Nikita XX

The family of the late Margaret Flanagan Taylor wish to thank all who sympathised with them on Margaret’s passing, those who sent Mass Cards, enrolment certificates and flowers. Thank you to Fr. Browne for the beautiful Mass for Margaret and to Carmel McLoughlin for the wonderful songs and music performed during the Mass. A special word of thanks to Tom and Pat Smyth, Undertakers, for their professionalism. Thank you to the friends who prepared Margaret’s grave. Thank you to Gleeson’s for the lovely meal afterwards. Finally to Margaret’s friends and neighbours both in England and Roscommon we would like to thank you for your support to Margaret and all of us during her illness and since her passing. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

FLANAGAN TAYLOR Margaret Wallington, Surrey, England and formerly Four Mile House, Roscommon Who died on 7th February 2018. Aged 53. (R.I.P.) (1st Anniversary)

COYLE Laurence (Larry)

In loving memory of a dear mother and grandmother Mary Bridget, who died 1st February 1996. R.I.P.

Sleaveen, Roscommon and formerly of Carrowcrin, Kilteevan, Roscommon Who died on 7th February 2011 (8th Anniversary)

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

Always remembered and never forgotten by your loving daughter Philomena and granddaughter Roseanne.

THANKSGIVINGS

COYLE Vincent Carrowcrin, Roscommon Who died on 5th August 1985 (34th Anniversary)

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask for this special one (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own broken heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Many thanks. M.K. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. A.M.K. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. K.C.

GOD’S GARDEN God looked around His garden And found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth And saw your tired face. He put His arms around you And lifted you to rest. God’s garden must be beautiful He always takes the best. He knew that your were suffering. He knew your were in pain. He knew that you would never Get well on earth again. He saw the road was getting rough, And the hills were hard to climb. So He closed your weary eyelids, And whispered “Peace be Thine”. It broke our hearts to lose you But you didn’t go alone For part of us went with you The day God called you home.

Always remembered and loved by your husband Dave, mother Philomena, brothers PJ and Alan, sister Norma, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. Mass offered. Will those who think of them today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Lovingly missed by Larry’s wife BT and family. Masses offered.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance

HOARE Kathleen 12 Circular Road, Roscommon Who died on 6th February 2015 (4th Anniversary)

Cherished memories of our dear mother and grandmother. I close my eyes and see your face Smiling at me from a beautiful place You tell me you are never far away And that we will meet again some day. I ask if you could stay a while I miss your face, I miss your smile. Then you whisper gently into my ear I never left you I’m always here. No one knows but only He, The treasure we have lost.

Loved and missed every day by all your family.

CONNELLY Bridgie Newtown, Glinsk (1st Anniversary)

We thought of you today with love But that was nothing new. We thought about you yesterday and the days before that too. We think of you in silence, we often speak your name. All we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake with which we’ll never part. God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts.

Always loved and sadly missed by her sons and daughters, sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, sister and all her relatives and friends. First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, 10th February at 10am.

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Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon

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Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

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Appointments

IRISH ANGUS PRODUCER GROUP

Do you have livestock experience? Would you like to work with one of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strongest beef brands?

If so join our team of livestock inspectors. These positions are on a part-time basis in the meat plants of our processor partners, ABP & Kepak Responsibilities include: ÇŠ , QVSHFWLRQ RI OLYHVWRFN SULRU WR VODXJKWHU ÇŠ , PSOHPHQWDWLRQ RI *URXS V OLYHVWRFN SROLF\ ÇŠ 3 URGXFWLRQ RI UHSRUWV RI LQVSHFWLRQV Essential Requirements: ÇŠ ( [FHOOHQW NQRZOHGJH RI OLYHVWRFN ÇŠ & RPSXWHU OLWHUDWH ÇŠ : LOOLQJQHVV WR ZRUN RQ RZQ LQLWLDWLYH ÇŠ 2 QO\ FDQGLGDWHV ZLWK HVVHQWLDO UHTXLUHPHQWV QHHG DSSO\ Apply by email onlybefore before 15th February 2019 to to: Apply by email only Friday 4th January

,ULVK $QJXV 3URGXFHU *URXS /RQJČ&#x152;HOG 9LUJLQLD &R &DYDQ (PDLO QIDUUHOO\É&#x201A;DQJXVSURGXFHUJURXS FRP

The Brothers of Charity Services Ireland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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 (Strokestown Area) (Reference: 05/19 - Please clearly quote reference code on the application form) AND 1 X PERMANENT FULL-TIME RESIDENTIAL SERVICES TEAM LEADER East Roscommon Residential Services (Strokestown Area) (Reference: 08/19 - Please clearly quote reference code on the application form) These roles are to support/be a mentor for a male in his 50â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s living in his residential home and the requirement is minimum of a level 7 (Social Care Worker) / level 8 (Team Leader) 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 EAST ROSCOMMON REGION IN THE COMING 6 MONTHS Closing Date: 5.00 p.m., Monday, 25th February 2019 The Brothers of Charity Services Ireland - West Region is an equal opportunities employer

Looking for long-term work in Sweden? ICDS Constructors urgently require the following to fill current vacancies: Shuttering Carpenters â&#x2014;? Steelfixers â&#x2014;? Crane drivers â&#x2014;? Bankspersons (with valid tickets) Flights & Accommodation provided. Contact Pat Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Malley on 086 669 6764 or 091 564 008 or Email your CV to mark.doyle@icds.ie â&#x2014;?

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

Phone: 046-9242820/9242541

QUALIFIED ELECTRICIANS ALSO 3RD AND 4TH YEAR APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS REQUIRED FOR IMMEDIATE START Full union rates â&#x201A;Ź23.70 per hour Lodge also paid @ â&#x201A;Ź181.68 TAX FREE â&#x201A;Ź500 relocation incentive paid to successful candidates Opportunities to develop your career within the company with promotions and optional training courses We are a commercial electrical fitout company. All projects are in the Dublin area. For further details please send CV to Janet@mab.ie

SMYTHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Transport REQUIRE - FULLTIME

HGV Apprentice Mechanic + HGV Driver Telephone: 087 2541720

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66 34633

EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

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Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

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

SportExtra

Appointments

Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) is a progressive independent person centred organisation providing services to people with limited mobility nationally to ensure that people with disabilities are in a position to participate fully and equally in their communities. We now seek applications for the following positions in IWA Cuisle Holiday Centre, Donamon, Co. Roscommon on six months ﬁxed-term contracts (March-August):

Restaurant/Kitchen Assistants

Applications are invited from suitably qualiﬁed candidates for inclusion on a panel for the following positions:

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNICIAN GRADE I – PERMANENT & TEMPORARY POSTS HEALTH & SAFETY OFFICER TEMPORARY POST (One Year Speciﬁc Purpose Contract) Application forms and full particulars may be obtained from the Human Resources Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98.

(min. 60 hours per month) Salary on offer is €9.80 per hour Main duties will involve serving meals and resetting for the next meal or function; assisting with washing up and ensuring strict hygiene standards are maintained with regard to all areas after each service; assisting the Chef on duty with food preparation as outlined by him/her. This role will report to the Head Chef.

E-mail: humanresources@roscommoncoco.ie Telephone: 090 6637233 Website: www.roscommoncoco.ie

The successful candidates should possess previous restaurant/kitchen experience; previous experience of working with people with disabilities and knowledge of HACCP procedures is desirable. They will also have the ability to work as part of a team and be ﬂuent English speakers.

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Magdalene Dunne, Vincent Harney, Lillian Shine and Mary Harney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Clann na nGael dinner dance

Candidates may be shortlisted on the basis of information supplied on the application form. The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 5pm on Tuesday 19th February 2019. Canvassing will disqualify Roscommon County Council is an equal opportunities employer. Is fostóir comhionannais deiseanna í Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin

Programme Assistant (16 hours p/week) Pro-rated annual salary range on offer between €10,256 and €12,648 (DOE) The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of five completed modules of QQI Level 5 (Major Award) Care Support or similar qualification. Previous experience of working with databases and Microsoft Office suite; knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety regulations, as well as transport safety and standards of use is essential. Previous experience of working with people with disabilities is required.

Roscommon National Roads Regional Office with its headquarters in Roscommon Town carries out speciﬁc functions and work programmes in relation to national roads in full consultation and partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Margaret Cunniffe, Breda Dolan and Patricia Morley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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

*Full copies the job descriptions are available on www.iwa.ie To apply for a post above, please submit a current CV and cover letter to jobs@iwa.ie Closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday, 15th February 2019.

RESIDENT ARCHAEOLOGIST N5 ROAD PROJECT TEMPORARY POST Speciﬁc Purpose 2 Year Contract (Roscommon National Roads Regional Office)

IWA is an equal opportunity employer.

Application forms and full particulars may be obtained from the Human Resources Department, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98. E-mail: humanresources@roscommoncoco.ie Telephone: 090 6637233 Website: www.roscommoncoco.ie Candidates may be shortlisted on the basis of information supplied on application form.

We are now looking for a full time qualified mechanic to join our team. The successful applicant will work in our new modern workshop and be part of our growing team.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 5.00 p.m on Tuesday 19th February 2019. Canvassing will disqualify. Roscommon County Council is an equal opportunities employer. Is fostóir comhionannais deiseanna í Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Siobhan Brien, Íde Crehan, Catherine Shine and Margaret Crehan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Applicants must be capable of working on their own initiative

Applications to be forwarded to info@ hanlymotors.ie or call 090 66 34671

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Declan and Catherine Dolan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were John and Breda Dolan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Sports People

Alive and kicking!

Rossies stun Farney to get off the mark Cathal Compton takes aim during Roscommonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Allianz NFL Division One win over Monaghan at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER Despite defeat, Creggs have forward momentum THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner Growing up in Lucan, Co. Dublin I was programmed to associate the game of rugby with those fee paying private schools in south Dublin. A close friend of mine starred for Kings Hospital but that was as close as a fella like me got to Leinster Schools Rugby. One day, however, an ambitious new teacher from Waterford brought the game to the working class students of Colaiste Phádraig, who up to that point had had to make do with kicking lumps out of each

other in schoolyard soccer matches. Mr. Phelan, or ‘Phelo’ as he became known, set about picking players for positions based on physical appearance. I was thrown in as a ‘hooker’ much to the amusement of my classmates whose crass if predictable sledging made me wish – not for the first time – I had enjoyed a growth spurt or been blessed with a little more pace. We were shown how to pass and tackle and were given a crash course in some of the rules. Sadly, Mr. Phelan’s rules lecture was a bit like one of his Geography classes in that it went in one not yet cauliflowered ear and out

the other. ‘Phelo’ had sinbinned about three players within ten minutes of kickoff in our practice game as his patience ran out. My rugby playing days were short-lived but I’ve always been fascinated by the game and the sometimes strange rituals that surround it. I was reminded of this last Sunday as Creggs took on Connemara at The Green. It has been described as “A game for thugs played by gentlemen” while soccer was referred to in the reverse. It amused me on Sunday, therefore, to see the Connemara players and officials grow increasingly frustrated with the match referee, but mindful to refer

to him as ‘sir’ when appealing for a decision! While Creggs were narrowly beaten by a toughtackling Blacks outfit, their continued rise in the province is something to be proud of. The new playing facilities are certainly worthy of the talent they seem to be producing in East Galway. Much like ‘Phelo’ back in Lucan, the passionate rugby playing public in the village are proof that the game is certainly not the reserve of the well-todo ‘burbs of south Dublin! Sunday may have been a set-back in terms of their title race but the Maroon and White’s forward momentum on and off their new pitch looks set to continue.

@dan_dooner

Action from last Sunday’s Connacht J1A League game between Creggs and Connemara at The Green. Pic: Mick McCormack

People’s champions of the week

In the sporting diary .... Ballaghaderreen FC registration day Ballaghaderreen FC will hold an underage registration day on Saturday, February 16th from 11 am to 1 pm. Cost of registration is €30 for boys, €20 for girls and €50 for family.

Roscommon Youths call for new coaches Chairman of Roscommon Town Youth Soccer Club, Paul Duignan, has called for more parents to get involved in coaching at the club. “Due to unprecedented numbers of new boys and girls wishing to join the club, we are asking that more parents get involved in helping out with teams from U-7s up to U-16s including both boys and girls. If you think you have a couple of hours to spare each week then text your name to 086-8538519,” he said.

Four Roads Lights Up with OT!

Congratulations to Ballinasloe’s Garbally College who became Connacht champions on Monday with a 3-14 to 3-10 victory over Balla from Co. Mayo in Bekan. Pictured (Back L-r): Mr. Michael Gallagher, Declan Kenny, Dara Hession, Liam Hession, Eoin Coleman, Ben Daly, Andrew Gibbons, Tom Fitzpatrick, Jack Finn, Conor Goode, Naoise Murphy, Fionnan Darcy, Adam Mulry, Cian Connolly, Cian Poland, Kealan Glynn, Caelim Keogh, Jack Downey, Adam McGreal. Front (L-r): Evan Clancy, Shane Costello, Ronan Finn, Gerard Colleran, Cormac Kenny, Adam Fogarty, Luke Walsh, Terry McGowan, Eoin Colleran, Shea Hennessy, Jack Tumulty, Adam O’Connor, Conor Costello, Liam Collins, Josh Dolan.

In conjunction with Operation Transformation, Four Roads Healthy Club are walking in Tisrara Community Sports Park every Thursday from 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm (finishing on Thursday, February 21st). Ireland Lights Up is a national initiative to improve the health of the country through communities across Ireland. Tisrara Community Sports Park is lit up for walking every Thursday, this is open to the whole community and all ages and is free of charge.

The sporting brief Handball

Fiona dominates in Belfast! Fiona Tully retained her 40x20 Ladies Open title in Belfast last Saturday with a minimum of fuss. Representing Dublin City University once again, Fiona beat Sinead Meaghar from Limerick IT in the final 21-7, 21-13. Next up for Fiona will be the World Collegiates in the USA where she will be hotly favoured to retain the Ladies Open title she won last year. St. Coman’s’ Michael Egan managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory when he went down 18-21, 20-21 to Mayo’s Jonathan Conroy in their Junior ‘B’ Connnacht semi-final last Saturday night in Bofield, Co. Mayo despite having good leads in both games. Of the upcoming 40x20 Connacht semifinals, the one that stands out is the Junior

Singles clash between Lisacul’s Denis Creaton and Claremorris’s Patrick Murphy. This pits two well-matched players in a classic youth v experience scenario.

Darts

Title race! McDermott’s remain top of the Roscommon Darts League following a comprehensive 7-2 win over Flanagan’s last weekend. The highlights included a 14-darter from Gary Concannon and a 15-darter from David Concannon. Molly’s brushed The Hollywood aside on a 7-2 scoreline. Ciaran Hickey hit a 120 finish while Sean Fleming had a 13dart leg. The Holly Tree were in impressive form as they overcame An Bothar Rua. Mick Kilroe’s 13-darter, Gary Rhattigan’s 112 check-out and Paul Carton’s 15-darter and whopping 146 check-out among the highlights.

Finally, The Three Counties were swatted aside 7-2 by Creaton’s in last weekend’s basement battle. This weekend’s fixtures: Three Counties v Molly’s, McDermott’s v Creaton’s, The Hollywood Bar v An Bothar Rua, Flanagan’s v The Holly Tree. A quick reminder that the A1 Singles event takes place this Saturday in Spell’s of Ballaghaderreen. The action gets started at 5 pm.

Golf

Champions’ Dinner Congratulations to Athlone’s Thomas O’Connor, who was honoured last weekend at the annual Champions’ Dinner, hosted by the Golfing Union of Ireland at Carton House. Thomas, who topped the Order of Merit, was awarded the 2018 Irish Mid-Amateur Championship trophy. The Winter League qualifying rounds

have now been completed in Athlone and Team 10 led by Mike Glynn from Ballinasloe occupies first position. Team 21 (James Martin) and Team 33 (Conor Murphy) are second and third respectively. Patrick Egan won the 18-hole Stableford at Boyle Golf Club on Sunday, 28th with 39 points. Paul Connolly was second and Tom Kearney was third, both with 37. Sean Heslin won the prize for best gross score, also with 37. The big event in the club calendar for February is the Captain’s and Lady Captain’s ‘Drive-In’ on Sunday, February 24th when Seamus Gallagher and Regina McLoughlin will get Boyle’s golfing year off to its official start.

Swimming

Tuam Gala Coman’s sent nine swimmers to Tuam

for the recent Regional Development Gala. They returned home with a great total of 12 medals! Philip Duda broke the one minute mark in the 100m Freestyle to take gold. He also took bronze in the 100m breaststroke while his brother Scott took home three medals. Alan Kilcommons took gold in the 400 Freestyle and silver in the 100m Fly. Robert Tobin and Michael Lavin achieved personal bests. Not to be outdone, the girls performed brilliantly too. Sinead Freeman took gold in both the 400m Freestyle and 100m Freestyle, Hollie Kilroe won two silver medals, and 9-year-old Aoife Lavin won silver in the 100m Backstroke at her first ever Regional Development meet. Finally, Antonina Pliszka had a personal best in the 400m Freestyle and Breaststroke. All the coaching from Kayo Jagielski at the Roscommon Leisure Centre appears to be paying off!

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

SportsPeople

Connemara dent Creggs’ title hopes Connacht J1A League

CREGGS

CONNEMARA  DAN DOONER

The fine margins at play in the Connacht Junior League were very much in evidence last Sunday as league leaders Connemara plundered the spoils at The Green. The visiting Blacks were dogged rather than dynamic as they kept a battling Creggs outfit at arm’s length for much of the afternoon to all but seal the league title. Connemara started on the front foot and enjoyed good early territory as Creggs took time to grow into the contest. Within 14 min-

utes, the Blacks were on the scoreboard as David McDonagh’s excellent break took him within ten metres of the line. McDonagh was once again involved two phases later as the ball was funnelled wide for winger Marty Conneely to touch down in the corner. The conversion was missed by Ian Heanue, who was to endure a difficult afternoon with the boot. Creggs had suffered plenty in that opening period as prop Eoghan Farrell and centre Tom Callaghan were both forced off through injury.

The Connemara players celebrate at the full-time whistle last Sunday in Creggs.

Creggs RFC Report

Connemara’s ferocious tackling made life difficult throughout this gripping contest but Shane Dowd found a gap 20 minutes in and broke deep into the visitors’ 22”. Support was slow in coming however and the Blacks managed to recover. Connemara failed to heed that warning though and just eight minutes later Dowd collected a pass from brother Ronan and outpaced the Connemara cover from inside his own half to touch down. A wonderful solo effort and Creggs were deservedly level. Ronan failed to convert but the Dowd connection had certainly steadied the ship. There was nothing between them up to this point and the hosts were certainly giving as good as they got. There were some ominous signs from a Creggs’ point of view, however, as Connemara began to turn ball over, but they were getting on top at the scrum and their opponents’ clearances were repeatedly over-cooked. While Creggs were stubborn and hard-working to a man, it was Connemara’s own discipline that perhaps should have cost them this match. Referee Robbie McGreer certainly seemed to be losing patience and had words with Peter O’Toole when Ronan Dowd was taken out off the ball as Creggs enjoyed some pos-

session in the last ten minutes of the first half. Then Kevin Barry was sent to the bin following a big hit on Brian Diffley as the Maroon and White threatened the Blacks’ line. Connemara seemed unperturbed by this setback and caught Creggs napping in the closing stages of the half. Heanue found a gap, and Niall Staunton drove them towards the line before Eugene Conroy barrelled over from close-range. Marco Rademeyer may have dragged his conversion attempt wide but Joe O’Connell’s men went in 10-8 to the good at the interval, Ronan Dowd dispatching a penalty for Creggs to keep them in touch. It was all to become a little sloppy after the break as both sides made unforced errors. Creggs’ line-outs, which had been solid in the first period, were to let them down badly in the second forty. On a number of occasions the visitors stole ball after the hosts had found touch inside their opponents’ 22”. Creggs were having some joy at scrum time but just couldn’t find a way through a resolute if sometimes undisciplined Connemara defence. Connemara for their part, struggled with their exit strategy and some wasteful kicking made the second

Creggs head coach Pat Cunningham cuts a frustrated figure as Connemara hold on to win in the Connacht Junior 1A League last Sunday in Creggs. Pic: Mick McCormack

Action from last Sunday’s Connacht J1A League match between Creggs and Connemara at The Green.

half far more uncomfortable than perhaps it should have been. In the end though they were just that little bit more composed in possession and a Henry O’Toole penalty with under quarter of an hour to play was to prove all-important. The hosts bravely huffed and puffed right to the death but despite a period of sustained pressure couldn’t find a leveller. The second half was summed up in the last play of the game as Connemara again forced a terrific turnover near their own line to cue wild celebrations at

the full-time whistle. Creggs’ Connacht Junior Cup destiny remains in their hands but they must now regroup for this weekend’s Quarter-Final at home to Monivea. Meanwhile they can only hope that Connemara’s remaining opponents can do them a favour in the race for the league title. Creggs: Ronan Dowd, Tom Flynn, Tom Callaghan, James Brandon, Chris Duignan, Shane Dowd, Mark Brandon, Kevin Brandon, Brian Diffley, Ronan Cahill, Tom Oates, Brian Donoghue, Eoghan Farrell,

Maurice Buckley, Aidan Leech. Replacements: Tom Fleming, Sean Óg Higgins, Luke Meehan, Brian Coady and Andrew Callaghan. Connemara: Henry O’Toole, Marty Conneely, Eoin Burke, David McDonagh, Peter O’Toole, TJ Berry, Paul Lee, Conor O’Malley, Niall Staunton, Eugene Conroy, Ian Staunton, Barry Gibbons, Kevin Barry. Replacements: Marco Rademeyer, Emmet Ferron, Kevin Keogh, Thomas Sicre, Dylan Slater, Emmet Ferron and David O’Reilly.

THE GAIN LINE

Development team halted by Old Boys Connacht J1C League: Creggs Development 6 OLBC 31. Creggs’ Development team battled bravely to the end but Galway city side OLBC ran in three second half tries to pull away. Two well-struck penalties by full-back Michael Farrell in response to a converted try and penalty left the home team trailing by 10-6 at half-time, but OLBC’s superior forward strength proved decisive as they finished strongly to power to victory. Prominent for Creggs were Michael Farrell, Michael Holland, Matthew Browne, Mike Fleming, Eoghan Cahill, Luke Meehan and Damien Nolan.

Youth Rugby Connacht U-15 League Semi-Final:

Creggs 5 Buccaneers 10. A real local derby with lots of unforced errors on both sides but Creggs had lots of possession in the game and up front in the first half Leigh Kilcoyne, Eoin Kelly, Ciaran Purcell and Ben Johnson were prominent. The best move of the match belonged to the home team after good work by the forwards, the backs moved the ball wide for Edimar Fimho to score in the corner. The half-time score was 5-5. Buccaneers struck with ten minutes remaining to lead 10-5 and although Creggs owned the ball after that, it seemed that too many handling errors killed any momentum. Creggs will hope for better when they start their Connacht Cup campaign away to NUIG on Saturday 23rd.

Connacht U-14 Cup: NUIG 38 Creggs 20. With a home game against Westport up for grabs in the next round, Creggs were well up for this game. Unfortunately, NUIG registered two early converted tries before Ceggs replied with a penalty from the boot of Andy Quinn. NUIG scored another try before half-time which left Creggs a big hill to climb in the second half. The second half was much more evenly contested and included Creggs tries from Eoghan Kelly, Aindriú Oates and Andy Quinn. Creggs now go into the Connacht U-14 Plate, with their first match in two weeks’ time.

Youth Fixtures Creggs U-14 Girls take on Ballina in

The Creggs U-14s who were defeated by NUIG last weekend.

the semi-final of the Connacht Cup on Saturday week (16th) at 12.30 pm in Creggs. The U-16 Girls host Galwegians in their Connacht Plate competition on Sunday, 17th. Creggs U-18.5s have the first round of the Connacht Cup away to Ballyhaunis on the weekend of 16th/17th.

This team also has the Connacht U-18 League Final the following weekend.

Mini Rugby Minis of all ages (U-6s to U-12s) train on Saturday at 11 am in Creggs. (Please note that from this week, no one is allowed on the 4G pitch without football boots).

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

SportsPeople

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

Dooner’s weekend predictions The league split into two sections last week with the top six facing off against each other and the bottom six doing likewise. Ballymoe FC’s derby hoodoo over Castlerea Celtic continued as they kept their hopes for a late title push alive with a 3-2 win. Elsewhere, Moore United scraped past Skyvalley Rovers while Roscommon United’s Division Two title hopes took a severe blow in their 4-2 defeat in Cloonfad.

Friday, February 8th Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Premier Division Strokestown United v Dysart FC. 8 pm The hosts have already beaten Dysart this season and will be hoping to repeat the dose this weekend. Prediction: Strokestown United

Saturday, February 9th Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Premier Division Ballinasloe Town v Boyle Celtic. 7.45 pm The league’s meanest defence (5 conceded) entertains the most potent attack (42 scored) this Saturday in what should be a cracker. The Town edged the previous encounter (0-1) but Celtic haven’t suffered a league defeat since. Prediction: Draw

Cam Celtic v Ballinasloe Town B Home win. Prediction: Cam Celtic Dunmore Town v Ahascragh United Difficult one to call but Dunmore may just edge it. Prediction: Dunmore Town Rahara Rovers v Ballaghaderreen FC

Both sides in good form recently but the visitors will be on a high after winning a thriller against CP Ajax last weekend. Prediction: Ballaghaderreen FC Killeen Sports Grounds Division Two (2 pm) Roscommon United v Glen Celtic Not an easy fixture to

bounce back in for United but they must win to keep their feint title hopes alive. Prediction: Roscommon United Skyvalley Rovers B v Cloonfad United B A super win for Cloonfad last time out and they are now breathing down Roscommon United’s necks.

Prediction: Cloonfad United B St. Cuan’s United v Castlerea Celtic B Don’t rule out Castlerea stretching their lead at the top this weekend. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic B

Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Premier Division Ballymoe FC 3 Castlerea Celtic 2 Skyvalley Rovers 0 Moore United 1 Shiven Rovers v Cloonfad United, postponed. Norio’s Takeaway Division One Ballaghaderreen FC 4 CP Ajax 3 Killeen Sports Grounds Division Two Cloonfad United B 4 Roscommon United 2 Shiven Rovers 3 Ballymoe FC 1

Sunday, February 10th Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Premier Division Kilkerrin United v St. Peter’s FC. 2 pm The champions could lay down a marker this weekend. Prediction: St. Peter’s FC Norio’s Takeaway Division One (2 pm)

Soccer results

TP Brennan Connacht Cup Round 3 St. John’s Athletic FC 1 Boyle Celtic 2. AET Joe’s Bar RDFL Challenge Cup Round 2 Moylough ’79 2 Manor United 1 Rahara Rovers 3 Cam Celtic 4 Glen Celtic v Skyvalley Rovers, postponed.

Pictured is the Moore United team which beat Skyvalley Rovers 1-0 in the Premier Division last weekend.

Racing starts this weekend at Thurles with the first off at 1.15 pm 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 Naas with a national hunt card off at 1 pm and on Sunday at the neighbouring track in Punchestown racing begins at 1.40 pm and features the Grade B Grand National Trial over 3m 4f worth €100,000. At Sandown on Saturday Lostintranslation failed by ¾l to Defi Du Sueil and the mare La Bague Au Roi won at Leopardstown on Sunday giving a break even bet. Stick with Lostintranslation for the JLT as he will get the hill better then Defi Du Sueil and the mare will probably go to Aintree. The Dublin Racing Festival provided

great entertainment last weekend with the highlight of Saturday being Apple’s Jade facile win in the Irish Champion Hurdle beating Supasundae 16l with Petit Mouchoir another 5l away in third. She is entered in three Cheltenham races but let’s hope they run her in The Champion Hurdle. The super mare was completing a Grade 1 double for Gigginstown, Elliott and Jack Kennedy whose Commander Of Fleet won the opening Novice Hurdle. In the other two Grade 1 races, Min won the Dublin Chase and Le Richebourg won the Arkle. In the Grade 2 bumper Envoi Allen maintained his unbeaten status winning from Meticulous and Embittered and will probably go to Cheltenham. On Sunday The Irish Gold Cup provided us with the race of the weekend when in a

Sir Erec and Mark Walsh win the Juvenile Hurdle on Sunday.

Horses for Courses

small field, WP Mullins and Ruby Walsh produced Bellshill to just get up and short head Road To Respect with The Storyteller 7½l back in third. Mullins was winning the race for the tenth time. Elsewhere Sir Erec won the Juvenile Hurdle for Joseph O’Brien, Klassical Dream the Novice Hurdle and La Bague Au Roi gave the English their only winner in the Novice Chase. In the bumper Santa Rossa won her race by 3¼l from Bigbadandbeautiful, who was doing his best work at the finish and should relish a stiffer finish. A very good weekend of racing but the lack of cross channel raiders for such large purses needs to be addressed.

General News

by Tom Red Ruby Walsh on Bellshill wins the Irish Gold Cup on the line from Sean Flanagan on Road to Respect.

The Red Mills Hurdle and Red Mills Chase at Gowran Park on Saturday February 16th have both received a boost in prize money and both races will now be worth €60,000. The Connolly owned Red Mills are 39 years sponsoring at Gowran. The Chase could see Anibale Flyer and

Edwulf, who gave the Irish Gold Cup a miss, run. Anibale Flyer also holds an entry in the Denman at Newbury this weekend. Winner of the Grade Two Knight Frank Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown’s Christmas meeting. Tony Mullins’ Rocky Blue is out for about 6 months after injuring himself on the gallops at home and will miss the JCB Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Point to Point Corner There is racing on the northern circuit this weekend at Kirkistown in Co Down with 91 entries. On Sunday there are three meetings down for decision, at Tallow in West Waterford with 115 entries, Cragmore near Askeaton in Limerick with 89 runners and at Oldtown in North County Dublin with 121 entries. Patrons should note that Oldtown have brought forward their starting time to 12 pm start with Kirkistown, on Saturday, and Cragmore an hour later at 1 pm. Tallow has a 1.30 pm scheduled start on Sunday.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

One of the best league days at the Hyde What’s seldom is wonderful! Last Sunday’s win by the Roscommon senior footballers was one of the best that we have had in the league at Dr. Hyde Park in recent memory. All the pundits (yours truly included) got it wrong on this one. The manner of Monaghan’s win against Dublin led me to believe that they would be too strong for Roscommon. But I reckoned without Roscommon’s newfound self-belief and never-saydie attitude. Add that to a well organised defensive system that all the players have bought into, and it’s a potent mix that Monaghan were not able to match. It was so heart-warming to see Roscommon with such a will to win and a never-say-die attitude. Even when they went down to 13 men towards the end of the game they never lost their composure and held on to the ball so well. The penalty was earned while the team were two men short and even when Jack McCarron and Conor McManus levelled the scores after that Roscommon kept driving on for the win. Most of us would have settled for a point, but not this team. They wanted the win and win they did too.

What Anthony Cunningham and his coaches have achieved in the space of just two months with this team is nothing short of remarkable. There are at least eight players missing off the panel from last year and when you add in Sean Mullooly, who is injured and Donie Smith who was suspended that brings the number to ten and that’s without Diarmuid Murtagh and Brian Stack as well. It would be wise not to get carried away though. If Roscommon want to have a chance against Tyrone next Sunday they will have to match or even better last Sunday’s effort. Very soon the element of surprise will be gone from this team too and the opposition will be ready for the challenge. But Sunday’s win has changed everything in Division One. Before the game Roscommon were hot favourites for relegation. Now they have a real chance if they can show the same fight and determination they showed last Sunday. Lads who were not heard of this time last year on the intercounty scene are now playing a major part with the team: Evan McGrath, Conor Hussey, Gary Patterson, Shane Killoran and

Conor Cox scored five frees on his debut for Roscommon last Sunday at Dr. Hyde Park against Monaghan. Pic: Mick McCormack

Colin Compton look at home in a county jersey and they can only improve. Conor Cox kicked two outrageous frees with the outside of his boot but I think he has a lot more to offer

from general play when he settles in. My friends in Kerry rate him very highly. One long-standing Roscommon supporter said to me last Sunday night: “Roscommon

were always known as a tough, hardy team who would never lie down, and we are back to that now thank God”. I couldn’t have said it better myself. Well done to all concerned and now instead

Reality check for Ireland in English mauling

England were far too strong for a disappointing Irish side in the Six Nations opener at the Aviva Stadium last Saturday.

A reality check is what some of the pundits called it while others were a little more downbeat. After the hammering at the hands of England last Saturday I have to agree with the view that it was a pity the World Cup was not in the autumn of 2018 when Ireland were at their very best. The wear and tear is beginning to show now and some key players are getting injured. There is also the worry that guys like Conor Murray and Johnny Sexton are not playing well. The experiment of playing Robbie Henshaw at full-back did not work last Saturday but I agree with the school of thought which says he should be retained there for the game against Scotland. The amazing thing about the Irish squad at the moment is that we have two world-class players at full-back (Simon Zebo) and second row (Donnacha Ryan) sitting around twiddling their thumbs because of a stupid rule about playing here in Ireland. Joe Schmidt will start his World Cup preparations now but he must be careful that the team does not develop a losing habit. They will be up against it in Murrayfield on Saturday and they must dig in and get the win. England v France will be a big game although England look far too strong for the rest of the teams in the Six Nations at the moment. The only team that might threaten them is Wales.

Arrogant Sergio deserved a lengthy ban Readers of this column know that I am a huge golf fan but what Sergio Garcia did last weekend in Saudi Arabia was a disgrace and he should have received a ban from competitive play for a number of months. He didn’t like the greens on the course he was playing and he chose to deliberately damage at least five separate putting surfaces on his way around which he admitted to later. He got a slap on the wrist and was told not to do it again. Who do these overpaid, arrogant people think they are? This guy has at least €100 million in the bank yet he thinks he can behave like a common vandal just because things were not going his way. If it was Tiger Woods that did it there would have been an outcry! Garcia should have been left on the sidelines for a couple of months to teach him a lesson but the reality is that the authorities are afraid of these Sergio Garcia was disqualified for taking his frustration out on the greens at the Royal so-called ‘superstars’ and they are afraid to annoy them. Greens Golf & Country Club in Saudi Arabia last weekend.

of fearing Tyrone we will look forward to their visit on Sunday. They need a win so it will be a huge dog-fight, but Roscommon will enjoy that too. Let’s just take it one game at a time!

Liverpool remain favourites despite draws Liverpool are suffering a bit of a wobble at the moment but it is very significant that they haven’t actually lost a game. Last week against Leicester a draw at Anfield was probably a fair result but they got away lightly against West Ham on Monday night when the Hammers missed at least three clear goal chances, while the goal Liverpool scored was offside. Even so, the pressure is still on Manchester City to remain unbeaten which is a very tall order. Liverpool are still in the driving seat and remain firm favourites for the title. The Manchester United story under Solksjaer is incredible. They are playing with the swagger of old and they are in with a chance of a top four place which seemed impossible a couple of months ago!

Mayo and Kerry looking good! Elsewhere in the league, Mayo were very impressive against Tyrone as they swept them aside in Omagh. It was hard to judge what they were like the previous week given the conditions in MacHale Park but they are now in a great position in the table even at this early stage. Kerry are also unbeaten and they got by a stern challenge from Cavan before emerging with the win. Sean O’Shea looks the find of the league so far. He is a superb striker of the ball and is being compared to Maurice Fitzgerald, which is pretty high praise! The Kerry v Dublin clash this weekend will be very interesting indeed. Dublin swatted away the feeble challenge offered by Galway on Saturday night, but it was a brutal match to watch. The results last weekend now mean that Division One will be a real battle all the way to the last round and there will be as much interest in the bottom of the table as there will be at the top.

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

SportsPeople

‘We’ll take conﬁdence from Monaghan win’  SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon captain Enda Smith said the points were the most important thing last Sunday. “We played well last week but it’s all about the

(league) points and we played well and got the win today and this is massive for us. We did well when the two lads were sin-binned and Ultan (Harney) did really well to win the penalty. It was great to

slot it in (the penalty) but we still had to show good character to get the win after that. “Coxy (Conor Cox) scored a magnificent free toward the end and then it was mighty to get the in-

surance point after that. We wanted the points today and we are delighted to get them. Tyrone will be a different challenge to Monaghan but we will get huge confidence out of today’s win,” he said.

Ladies up and running with impressive win Lidl Ladies National Football League Division Three (Round 1)

ROSCOMMON WICKLOW Roscommon began their league campaign with an impressive win against Wicklow at Kiltoom on Saturday last. With a number of new players on the team this year, Michael Finneran’s side should be

4-10 2-6 strong candidates for promotion as the campaign progresses. There were five goals in the opening half, including three for Roscommon. Laura Fleming was first to get in for a three pointer,

Katie Daly was next to net for the home side on her debut and she made it a personal haul of two before the break. But Wicklow were still in touch by the half- time whistle: Roscommon 3-5 Wicklow 2-4. Roscommon then took over after the break. Siobhán Tully was outstanding on her return to the team and she set up Rebecca Finan for goal number four for the Rossies. The fourth quarter was a chance for the Roscommon management to run their

bench and look at their options ahead of the next round which is away to Kildare this weekend. Roscommon: H Cummins; H Ennis, S Kenny, N Feeney; S Bannon, J Cregg (0-1), R Wynne; L Fleming (1-2), A Ryan; S Tully, R Fitzmaurice (0-1), K Daly (2-0); S Bruen, R Finan (1-6), L Brady. Subs; T Murtagh for Bruen (h/t), S Brady for L Brady (42), L Flynn for Wynne (43),R Brady for Ryan (49), J Geoghegan for Finan (55), G Lohan for Ennis (55).

Enda Smith runs at the Monaghan defence during last Sunday’s Allianz NFL Division One match at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

BREAKING

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were David and Clodagh Kelly and Edel and Shane McCarron. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Cathal Shine, James Curley, Ronan Gavin and Jonathan Dunning. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Damien, Anne Marie, Annette Durney and Finola and Derick O’Brien. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Robert Hardiman, Paul McManus, Darren Duff and Sean Seery. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

BALL

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Carol Shine and Brendan O’Brien. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Clann na nGael dinner dance in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel last Saturday were Maura and Martin Sumner. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

SportsPeople

Hurlers maintain unbeaten start!

A ti ffrom llast Sunday’s Allianz NHL Division 3A match between Roscommon and Monaghan at Dr. Action Hyde Park. Pics: Mick McCormack

Allianz National Hurling League Division 3A (Round 2)

ROSCOMMON

1-21

MONAGHAN

0-14

 SEAMUS DUKE

half in particular. But it must also be remembered that Monaghan were short over a dozen Castleblayney players who will play in the All-Ireland junior club semi-final this coming weekend. Roscommon were always in control, and with Shane Curley accurate from frees, the scores quickly built up. The home side led by 0-5

Roscommon’s unbeaten start to the new league season in Division 3A continued at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday when they had ten points to spare against a game but very limited Monaghan side. Roscommon were never in trouble and were very impressive in the opening

to 0-1 after 12 minutes, and when Cillian Egan got in for a goal after 17 minutes Roscommon led by 1-6 to 0-2. A magnificent sideline cut from Curley and a point from Mike Keelehan saw the home side nine points to the good and even at that stage the game was over as a contest. The final 10 minutes of the opening half belonged to Padraig Kelly as the dual player knocked over four top quality points from play and by half-time Ciaran Comerford’s men led by 1-13 to 0-6. Monaghan did reduce the margin to seven points a couple of times in the sec-

Padraig Kelly brings possession forward for Roscommon during their Allianz NHL Division 3A win over Monaghan at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday.

ond half but Roscommon were always able to keep them at arm’s length with Kelly, Curley and Cathal Dolan scoring some fine points. It was a good win but there are far bigger fish to fry in this division later on, but points in the bag is what it’s all about and two wins out of two is a great start. Alan Moore, Conor Coyle, Shane Curley, Cathal Dolan and Padraig Kelly were prominent on the day for Roscommon who now have a weekend off until their next game. Roscommon: Noel Fallon; Alan Moore, Pat Nolan, Hugh Rooney; Jack Donnelly, Eamon Flanagan, Conor Coyle; Shane Curley (0-3, 3 frees), Darragh Heavey (0-1); Cathal Dolan (0-7, 6 frees), Mike Kellehan (0-1), Padraig Kelly (0-6); Gearoid Egan, John Murray, Cillian Egan (1-2). Subs: Paul Kenny (0-1) for G Egan (51), Conor Coyle for Flanagan (71). Monaghan: Niall Butler; Gareth Brennan, Jamie Guinan, Pearse McKenna; Trevor Hilliard (0-1), Eamon Collins (0-1, 1 free), Conor McKenna (0-1); Conor Geonon, Kevin Crowley; Cathal Power (0-1), Padraig McGahon (0-2, 1 free), Nathan Farrell; Shane McNally, Tadgh Campbell, Stephen Lambe (0-8, 7 frees). Subs: Cathal McAnespie for Farrell (29), Patrick Birmingham for McNally, Emmett Walsh for Power, Dylan Mulholland for P McKenna (all 63). Referee: James Connors (Donegal)

Action from last Sunday’s Allianz NHL Division 3A match between Roscommon and Monaghan at Dr. Hyde Park. Pics: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Allianz National Football League Division One (Round 2): Roscommon 1-12 Monaghan 0-13

Rossies upset the odds with Farney win! The Verdict This was one of the most memorable league wins for Roscommon for many a long day. Two years ago there were three away wins in Division One but it’s some time since the Dr. Hyde Park crowd saw Roscommon pull a win like this one out of the hat. It was thrilling, dramatic stuff. GAA people love it when the pundits get it wrong and I was one of those who will have to hold my hand up this week because I thought that Monaghan would be too strong for the home side with the panel of experienced and talented players they have. But I reckoned without this newfound self-belief, incredible work ethic and fierce determination that is now coursing through the veins of the Roscommon players since Anthony Cunningham and his management team have taken over. It was so heart-warming to see a Roscommon team overcome so many setbacks in a big game and still come out winners in the end. In the first half, eight

Seamus Duke wides and a missed goal chance looked like they would cost them the league points. Monaghan brought on Conor McManus at halftime and within eleven minutes they were two ahead. But the Roscommon players refused to accept defeat. Even when Conor Cox and Tadgh O’Rourke were black-carded within a minute, the Primrose and Blue army refused to bend the knee. In fact, it was when Roscommon were down to 13 players that they were awarded the match-winning penalty. Enda Smith smashed it beyond Rory Beggan to send his side back into the lead. McManus pointed from way out in the country to tie up the scores, but Roscommon smelt blood. The ‘sinners’ were back on for injury-time. Conor Cox kicked a magnificent free from the sideline with the outside of his right boot before Ronan Daly put in a lung-bursting run to fist over to give Roscommon a two point win. What a performance this was from Roscommon.

Enda Smith gets his shot away during last Sunday’s Allianz NFL Division One match between Roscommon and Monaghan at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Conor Daly moves possession on during last Sunday’s Allianz NFL Division One match between Roscommon and Monaghan at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Once again Niall Daly was immense in defence, leading by example. He charged around Hyde Park like it was his land. Evan McGrath wasn’t far behind him. Some of his covering, tackling and hard running was simply magnificent. Conor Daly and Davy Murray were outstanding too. Enda Smith and Tadgh O’Rourke did well at midfield and up front Conor Cox can be well pleased with his debut. Two of the frees he struck were out of the top drawer. He is a huge asset to the team. Ultan Harney was also superb; he was in the engine room all day and he worked incredibly hard. But there was not one Roscommon player or sub who didn’t contribute to this magnificent win. Now suddenly the Division One picture is so different. Tyrone come to Hyde Park on Sunday next without any points and desperate for a win. If Roscommon can reproduce the kind of display that we saw last Sunday then I wouldn’t rule out an-

other win. But that’s for Sunday. For many decades past Roscommon were always known as a tough, hard team that were very difficult to beat. Roscommon are back there again now. As one man said to me after

the game on Sunday: “Roscommon have their mojo back after so many years and thank God for that’’. It might be a little bit early to be getting too excited but last Sunday will live long in the memory. I’m so glad I got it wrong!

Teams and Scorers Roscommon: Darren O’Malley (0-1, a ’45); David Murray, Conor Daly, Evan McGrath; Conor Hussey, Niall Daly (0-1), Ronan Daly (0-1); Tadgh O’Rourke, Enda Smith (1-1, 1-0 pen); Shane Killoran, Ultan Harney (0-1), Niall Kilroy (0-2); Conor Cox (0-5, 5 frees), Colin Compton, Cathal Cregg. Subs used: Ciarán Lennon for Compton (34); Conor Devaney for Cregg (53), Hubert Darcy for Kilroy (61), Caoileann Fitzmaurice for Harney (69), Gary Patterson for Lennon (72). Monaghan: Rory Beggan (0-2, 2 frees); Kieran Duffy, Conor Boyle, Ryan Wylie; Dessie Ward (0-2), Barry Kerr, Colin Walshe; Darren Hughes, Fintan Kelly (0-1); Shane Carey, Jack McCarron (0-2, 1 free), Gavin Doogan; Conor McCarthy (0-1, a mark), Dermot Malone (0-1), Michael Bannigan. Subs used: Drew Wylie for Boyle (17); Conor McManus (0-04, 3 frees) for Bannigan (h/t); Ryan McAnespie for Doogan (43); Karl O’Connell for Carey (53); Stephen O’Hanlon for McCarthy (66 mins). Referee: Sean Hurson (Tyrone)

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

Allianz National Football League Division One (Round 2): Roscommon 1-12 Monaghan 0-13

The Roscommon team lines up prior to throw-in last Sunday at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Key Moments First half Dessie Ward opened the scoring with a Monaghan point in the second minute but Roscommon were soon into their stride and points from Enda Smith, Conor Cox (free) and Niall Kilroy saw the home side 0-3 to 0-1 up after 15 minutes. Jack McCarron narrowed the gap in the 17th minute before Niall Daly landed a ‘bomb’ of a point in the 21st minute from 50 metres to restore Roscommon’s two point lead. Rory Beggan converted a long-range free in the 22nd minute before Roscommon missed a great goal chance in the 27th minute. A quick exchange of passes with Cathal Cregg saw Evan McGrath through and his low shot was brilliantly saved by Beggan at the expense of a ’45 which was pointed by Darren O’Malley. In the final three minutes of the half Beggan and Cox exchanged pointed frees to leave the home side ahead by two at the break. Half-time score: Roscommon 0-6 Monaghan 0-4

Second half Monaghan brought on Conor McManus at half-time and the visitors were much sharper in the third quarter. Points from Conor McCarthy (free), McManus, and Dessie Ward saw the Farney men ahead inside four minutes. Conor Cox levelled the scores with a pointed free in the 6th minute but when McManus and Fintan Kelly scored points for Monaghan they led 0-9 to 0-7 after 46 minutes. Roscommon dug in and fought back. Ultan Harney scored a fine point from play and Cox pointed a free after he himself was fouled. Then Niall Kilroy fisted over to leave the Rossies a point

Seamus Duke

ahead with 14 minutes of normal time to go. The final 15 minutes were dramafilled and incredibly tense. Two Roscommon players, Conor Cox and Tadgh O’Rourke, were black-carded within a minute from the 60th minute and the home side were down to 13 until injury-time. But the players that were there worked even harder. Conor McManus (free) and Dermot Malone tacked on points for the visitors and by the 66th minute they led 0-11 to 0-10. In the 68th minute Ultan Harney charged towards the Monaghan goal and was fouled. Enda Smith stayed cool to smash the resultant penalty past Beggan and the home side were back in front by two. A Jack McCarron pointed free narrowed the gap to just one in the 70th minute. The officials indicated six minutes of injury-time and there was much more drama to come. Last week’s Monaghan hero Stephen O’Hanlon was shown a straight red card for an altercation with Evan McGrath and in the 73rd minute McManus scored a magnificent free from 42 metres to draw his side level.

TIME ADDED ON… ‘The lads showed massive character’  SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager, Anthony Cunningham, was pleased with how his charges responded to falling behind late on against Monaghan last Sunday but admitted that they would have to become more clinical in front of goal. “The lads showed massive character there. We were down with a few minutes to go but we stayed at it and games like that are a great learning experience for our lads and we will take the positives out of it and work on them for the next day. But we showed great courage against a very experienced team. We will put that one in the locker for again. But I’m sure we will have many tough days ahead too,” he said before praising

the way his team adapted to being two men down. “The two black cards came so quickly but we adapted well to the situation and the lads who were there did so well. We worked hard all over the field and we got our bit of luck with the penalty and we steadied up and got the scores to win. We missed a few chances in the first half though and we will be looking at that this week”. Cunningham had high praise for new recruit, Conor Cox, who hit five frees on his Roscommon debut. “Conor Cox did well and some of his frees were really great. We are delighted to have him and it looks like the start of a long career for him and I’m delighted for him,” he concluded.

Final score: Roscommon 1-12 Monaghan 0-13

Dublin 1-15 Galway 0-7

A largely second choice Dublin side easily brushed aside the feeble challenge of Galway in Croke Park. It was desperately poor fare and Dublin hardly reached third gear. Cormac Costello was outstanding for the champions.

Kerry 0-16 Cavan 0-13

Another scintillating performance from Sean O’Shea saw Kerry edge past Cavan at Breffni Park. The Kingdom are not pulling up any trees but they are going about their business very steadily with two wins out of two.

Mayo 2-13 Tyrone 0-10

But Roscommon would not lie down. They were back to full strength again and gunning for a win. A free from out on the sideline in the 75th minute looked very difficult to point but Conor Cox struck it with the outside of his boot and it sailed over for a fantastic score. Then as the clock edged toward 77 minutes, Ronan Daly embarked on a lung-busting run and he calmly fisted over as Roscommon fans danced jigs of delight on the terraces and in the stands. It was one of the best wins in recent memory and a super performance from all concerned.

Division One at a glance…

Conor Cox takes on Conor Boyle during last Sunday’s Allianz NFL Division One game between Roscommon and Monaghan at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Stat Attack Wides: Red cards:

Roscommon 9 (8 first half ) Monaghan 7 (4 first half ) Roscommon 0 Monaghan 1 (Stephen O’Hanlon 71 mins)

Black cards:

A really impressive display from Mayo as they easily accounted for Tyrone in Omagh. Goals from Keith Higgins and newcomer Fionn McDonagh were key as James Horan’s men shocked the home side who are now bottom of the table.

Roscommon 2 (Conor Cox 61 mins, Tadgh O’Rourke 62 mins) Monaghan 0 Yellow cards: Roscommon 2 (Niall Daly, Ronan Daly) Monaghan 2 (Dessie Ward, Jack McCarron) Attendance: 5,000 (approximately) Man of the match: Evan McGrath (Roscommon)

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SportsPeople

Rejuvenated Rossies must be wary of wounded Tyrone Allianz National Football League Division One (Round 3):

Roscommon v Tyrone on Sunday in Dr. Hyde Park at 2 pm  SEAMUS DUKE

What a difference a week makes! Roscommon’s opening three matches against Mayo, Monaghan and Tyrone looked daunting to say the least – but after last weekend’s heroics, Roscommon can look forward to this Sunday’s clash with Tyrone with renewed optimism. While Roscommon are playing some great football, this will be a very tough encounter and could be even harder than last Sunday’s game given the circumstances. Tyrone come to Roscom-

mon desperate for a win and will be hugely motivated to take their first points of the campaign after two dismal performances. Mickey Harte’s men scored only two points from play against Kerry and only went one better against Mayo last Sunday. It has been a dramatic slump in form for the team which contested the All-Ireland final against Dublin last September. With players like Niall Morgan, Ronan McNamee, Rory Brennan, Mattie Donnelly, Tiernan McCann, Niall Sludden, Darren McCurry and Peter Harte they certainly cannot be taken

lightly and they are a seasoned and experienced side find themselves in a tight corner. However, Monaghan were also a seasoned and experienced side and Roscommon played a perfect game against them last Sunday, defending in numbers and hitting them on the counter attack. There is no doubt that if Anthony Cunningham’s side display the same hunger and the same appetite for hard work and will to win, they will not be far away this Sunday. I have been impressed with Evan McGrath since his arrival on the scene, not alone

is he defending well but going forward too. Niall Daly is the real leader of the Roscommon defence and his role is pivotal. He is leading by example. Ronan Daly also had a superb game on Sunday and looks back to his best. Tadgh O’Rourke and Enda Smith are doing really well at midfield. There is no doubt that Conor Cox will be a big addition and it’s so important to have a good free-taker but hopefully we will see more from him in terms of general play in the next few games. Donie Smith will be back in contention this week and Ultan Harney is

another man that is playing well and can prove to be a vital cog in the Roscommon machine. On the injury front, Diarmuid Murtagh is back in training while Conor Devaney is also on his way back. I expect a really tough battle that may not be easy on the eye as both sides will be determined to keep the ‘back door’ closed. If Roscommon can reproduce the kind of performance we saw last Sunday then Tyrone will have to play really well to win. I think that both sides will get something out of it. Prediction: A draw.

Flashback to 2018! Niall Daly feels the full weight of a Tyrone challenge during the Super 8s game in Croke Park last August.

Defying Monaghan, the odds and the sin-bin! View from THE STAND Paul Healy

With ten minutes of Sunday’s engrossing game remaining, I looked down on the pitch with a kind of contented resignation – observing Roscommon’s pitiful plight – and I was pretty sure

of what I saw: that there, I said to myself, is what an impossible situation looks like. All afternoon, Roscommon had shown great heart, skill and work ethic to stay in touch with what

Happy Roscommon fans at the Hyde! Picture: Michael McCormack

the man behind me called “the second best team in Ireland”. But now fate had intervened, and we had moved from aspirations of actual (and unlikely) victory to expectation of moral victory only. But it would be okay, a ‘what might have been’ day, because what we saw on the pitch with ten minutes remaining was like an advertisement for a GAAinspired version of ‘Mission: Impossible’. Entering the critical final phase of the game – against a streetwise Monaghan side which had growing momentum – Roscommon suddenly had two players sinbinned. So, thirteen Roscommon men against fifteen Monaghan men; it ought to have been as perilous as a boxer dropping his fists and jutting his chin out in front of a primed opponent. And, within a minute or so, it was pretty perilous…ominously, Monaghan players were galloping forward into open spaces, poised to ruthlessly finish this job, with the newly outnumbered Roscommon men chasing space and white shirts, desperately trying to defy geometry and prevent the seemingly inevitable. It looked bleak, to say the least. How could thirteen Roscommon men beat fifteen Monaghan men in these closing minutes, especially given the latter’s momentum and greater experience? If the second half was a fiery thriller, the first half had been decent too. “Is that the Kerryman?” a supporter behind me asked as Conor Cox prepared to take a free in the opening minutes. It was the Kerryman. And, going forward, he should be known as ‘the Roscommon man’. As a sportsman seeking out a home, Cox had become a human rubik’s cube…solvable yes,

but only after much patience and many twists and turns. His transfer from Kerry to Roscommon (the home county of his father, Martin) was a bureaucratic rollercoaster, the player himself metaphorically sitting in the waiting room with his boots on. On Sunday, Cox was finally granted access to the stage, and all eyes were on him. The completion of the complicated process of making Cox available to play for Roscommon was timely, given Donie Smith’s absence.

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with confidence…an assured game plan revealing itself. The only disappointment was that a few very scoreable opportunities weren’t availed of. One in particular went ‘abegging’, Rory Beggan denying Roscommon a goal with a sharp save from Evan McGrath. The second half was up there with the best we’ve seen in years. When Monaghan brought in Conor McManus, and then scored three quick points to erase Roscommon’s lead, it

Thirteen Roscommon men against ﬁfteen Monaghan men; it ought to have been as perilous as a boxer dropping his ﬁsts and jutting his chin out in front of a primed opponent

That first free drifted wide, but the story was only starting. Cox found his range, and Roscommon put in a very good opening 35 minutes against the highlyrated visitors. To a man, the home defence was superb. Roscommon players displayed tremendous workrate in everything they did…tackling with intensity, winning turnovers, then retaining possession

was straight from the pre-match script: ‘A game Roscommon hold Monaghan at bay for 40-50 minutes, before the Ulster men pull away’. But Roscommon hung in there, the outcome in the balance. Then the referee brandished two black cards, Conor Cox and Tadhg O’Rourke both sin-binned in quick succession. Absolute disaster. Suddenly, thirteen Roscommon men trying to prevent

the dam from falling. It seemed a lost cause, one that would be lost with dignity. Roscommon players dug about as deep as men in peril can dig. With Monaghan a point ahead, Roscommon summomed up an attack on the left. A long, deep ball was fielded by Ultan Harney. His march was halted. Penalty. Hearts in mouths. The All-Star goalkeeper stood, imposing, between Roscommon and some crazy scent of glory. Enda Smith’s superb penalty sent Beggan the wrong way. Wrong at least for Beggan. Now, the atmosphere in the stands was reminiscent of championships of old. Anger rippled through the stands, supporters of both counties sounding off at the referee, the opposition, the football Gods. Roscommon were two up, but there had been so much ‘incident’ in the fourth quarter, we knew that prolonged ‘additional time’ was a certainty. Monaghan closed it to one. High tension. Great stuff. With the ball nowhere near them, Monaghan’s Stephen O’Hanlon and Roscommon’s Evan McGrath tussled below us. Then, a chorus of condemnation from the Roscommon crowd…McGrath on the flat of his back. Referee Sean Hurson red-carded the Monaghan man. A Ciaran McManus free levelled the scores. The sin-bin emptied, Roscommon had fifteen again. ‘The Kerryman’ is no shirker of responsibility; Conor Cox wants the ball every time. A great free from his boot put Roscommon back in front. What drama! The man from the waiting room was centre stage. Deep into time added on, Ronan Daly charged forward and fisted over the bar. Roscommon 1-12 Monaghan 0-13. A remarkable victory. Mission: Daunting, but possible!

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019

GA A PEOPLE Your weekend starts here!

CRYSTAL (FOOT)BALL…  SEAMUS DUKE

Kerry v Dublin on Saturday night in Tralee at 7 pm This will be a big test for both sides. New Kerry manager Peter Keane will be hoping his side can lay down a marker for later in the year. The Dubs are still in ’pre-season mode’ according to Jim Gavin. They have much bigger fish to fry later in the year. Maybe Sean O’Shea can lead Kerry to a narrow win. It should be a cracker. Prediction: Kerry

More of the same please! Roscommon manager Anthony Cunningham is counting on home supporters turning out in force this Sunday. Cunningham was pleased with the level of support at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday as his team

came away with two valuable league points. He’s taking nothing for granted ahead of the visit of Tyrone this Sunday, however, and called on the Roscommon supporters to make their voices heard once again.

“Tyrone are probably the second best team in the country… we were thrilled with the support here for the Monaghan game and hopefully we will get that level of support again this Sunday,” he said.

THE ROVING ROSSIE

Mayo v Cavan on Saturday night in Castlebar at 7 pm

…13 apostles overcome sin bin!

Mayo were superb last Sunday against Tyrone. Cavan have battled well in both their games so far but to no avail. It’s hard to see them getting anything out of this. Prediction: Mayo

Monaghan v Galway on Sunday in Inniskeen at 2 pm Monaghan were stunned last Sunday by Roscommon and will be keen to get the train back on the tracks. They should be too strong for a Galway side who were very poor against the Dubs. Young Roscommon fans enjoying last Sunday’s thriller. Prediction: Monaghan

Tyrone again? A plea from pun-dits…  PAUL HEALY

Every Roscommon fan is anxious for a home win over Tyrone on Sunday – and that includes local newspaper Editors/Sports Editors. We’re tired of losing to Tyrone…and we’re tired of resorting to those tried and trusted ‘Tyrone puns’ in our newspaper headlines. Tyrone, in recent years at least, have a great record against Roscommon. And how much longer can the poor newspaper headline-writers (er...‘asking for a friend’) keep falling back on those once-clever, now jaded pun-inspired headlines? I mean, what are the pun-dits to do? For years, any time Tyrone beat Roscommon, we lazily reached for something like ‘Tyrone Power past Roscommon’.

Straight away, I’m into apology mode now. Tyrone Power?! You probably need to be well over 50 years of age – maybe older – to have even heard of Tyrone Power (he was a famous ‘Hollywood actor’, fondly remembered for ‘The Mark of Zorro’, many other action/romantic movies, and his services to GAA headlinewriters). I have to admit that I called on ‘Tyrone Power’ a bit too much over the years, but all rightthinking headline-writers (at least since the 21st century arrived) have long abandoned that particular headline option. What is it about Tyrone and that county’s serving up of ‘soft’ puns to headline writers? When Peter Canavan was wreaking havoc on defences for years, he led Tyrone to many great wins. Cue another obvious headline: ‘Peter the Great’.

The situation is not helped by the longevity of manager Mickey Harte’s career. Any time Tyrone beat Roscommon, there’s always the option of ‘Harte-break for Rossies’, or even ‘Harte-ache at the Hyde’. Then there’s the ‘Red Hand’…that’s come in er…handy, too. ‘Roscommon Hand it to Tyrone’. ‘Red Hand strangles Rossies’ (we actually used that last year)…and on and on and on. So, here’s hoping Roscommon get a long overdue win against Tyrone this Sunday. It would be terrific for the players, management and fans… and I think it would change the challenge for the headline-writers (we could concentrate on Roscommon, not Tyrone). Hand on Harte, I want to see Tyrone’s resistance Peter out, and Roscommon Power to victory…

Somewhat surprised to see a healthy crowd of 5,000 people at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for what the experts seemed to think was a foregone conclusion! Monaghan had, after all, in the words of Willie Hegarty, beaten the mighty Dublin in an All-Ireland semifinal the week previous! Thankfully, Anthony Cunningham and his charges didn’t appear to be paying attention to the hype and set about bringing the Farney men back down to ‘Planet Earth’ with a thud. Forget Jurgen Klopp, Cunningham and his backroom team have brought heavy metal football to Roscommon. Recent performances have shown that there is a new-found steel within the Primrose and Blue. It may be early days with a touch of frost still in the air, but the thirteen apostles who dug in during the closing stages repaid the undying faith of the Roscommon hardcore fans in the terraces. To add to the good feeling around the place, a new-found prophet from The Kingdom did come and we await the imminent return of our footballing messiah, Diarmuid Murtagh. Wins for the ladies, the hurlers and footballers made it a brilliant weekend to be a Rossie. Not so much for the pundits who will now have their work cut out ahead of this weekend’s action. Of course, their research won’t have been made any easier by the fact that RTÉ showed such scant highlights of such a foregone conclusion!

Roscommon People Friday 08 February 2019