2019.10.25 by Roscommon People

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25 October 2019

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Local solicitors: ‘Roscommon Courthouse to close in January’

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Full story: Page 12  PAUL HEALY

that the courthouse may not re-open for several years, and that District and Circuit Court sittings will be moved to neighbouring towns in January. While the courthouse will be closing for refurbishment purposes, Roscommon Bar Association says that no re-opening date has been indicated, and works might not even commence within the next few years – and may not be finished by 2027. Local solicitor Sean Mahon, speaking on behalf of Roscommon Bar Association, said that local solicitors now believe it is the intention of the Courts Service to close the

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courthouse in January and to move sittings to Carrick-on-Shannon or some other town. “While the refurbishment and redevelopment of the courthouse is great news and badly needed, the possibility of the business being moved to Carrick-on-Shannon or some other town is utterly unacceptable”. Mr. Mahon said this would result in a significant loss of business to Roscommon Town and severely affect shops, restaurants and hotels. It will also greatly inconvenience people who have business in the court, he said, adding “no regard appears to have been given to the court users”.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

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Back to Work Enterprise Allowance I an unemployed and I would like to start my own business. I am dependent on social welfare to pay my bills at the moment. Can I continue to claim social welfare payments until my business is up and running or will I be guilty of social welfare fraud if I do so? Social welfare fraud is a criminal offence and claiming benefits one is not entitled to may result in prosecution. However, a Government initiative called the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Social Fund allows individuals claiming certain social welfare payments to retain those payments for up to 2 years if they become self-employed. 100% of social welfare payments are paid for the first year of self-employment and 75% for the second year. To qualify for the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance one must become self-employed in a business that has been approved in advance in writing by a DEASP Case Officer and a Local Development Company. Also, one must be claiming certain social welfare entitlements for specified periods. Example, you must be claiming Jobseeker’s Benefit or Jobseeker’s Allowance continuously for at least 9 months OR you must be getting one of the following continuously for at least 9 months: Jobseeker’s Transitional payment, One-Parent Family Payment, Blind Pension, Disability Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, Deserted Wife’s Benefit/Allowance, Farm Assist (the new business cannot be in relation to the farm holding or the continuation of an existing business), Invalidity Pension, Incapacity Supplement, Widow’s/Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Non-Contributory) Pension. Other criteria also apply and I expect that full details will be available from your local social welfare office.

e l p o e WATCHING P With PAUL HEALY

So, you’re finished with technology…and with the news cycle? I can’t take any more! It’s non-stop! I had to do something! So? I took drastic action. I opted for quiet, calmness… Your shed? No! The fields! I headed for the fields! What exactly is stressing you? It’s all the news, all the talk, all the chatter, it’s driving me mad! AND all this technology! Everything’s 24-7. Radio in the morning, iphone all day…tablet, telly in the evening…tweets, notifications, emails, texts… You’re not on Instagram…? No, it’s bad enough! I can’t cope with all the news! Take Brexit for example… In fairness, I wish someone would… They’re all on about it! Morning Ireland. Pat Kenny. Sean O’Rourke. Joe Finnegan. Even Joe? Yes, even Joe! Then News at One, Joe Duffy, Matt Cooper, Mary Wilson, Ivan Yates…I can’t cope! Willie? Wha’? Willie Hegarty? Oh, he makes passing references too. Nowhere in broadcasting land is safe! And there’s Six-one News, Channel 4 News, 9 o’clock News, Primetime, Claire Byrne, Newsnight, Matt and Ivan… Do you not have Sky News? Yes! I have Sky News too! So anyways, you headed for the fields…

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Yes! On your own? No! I brought two elderly neighbours. Wha’? Like-minded men. We decided to re-enact a typical scene from that British comedy classic ‘Last of the Summer Wine’. Okay! So you basically lazed around all day? That’s harsh! Those gentlemen in Last of the Summer Wine were retired, to be fair!

Our Alternative Awards The ‘Services to farce’ Award I know it’s an issue with serious aspects to it, but… our award goes to the politicians who caused some anger/merriment this week (and created material for Oliver Callan)…with ‘Votegate’. In the Dáil chamber last Thursday, Deputy Niall Collins cast six vote for a colleague, one Timmy Dooley. Meanwhile, it also emerged that Lisa Chambers voted for Dara Colleary…by mistake. And it’s not just Fianna Fáil…others are being implicated, including the (Fine Gael) Justice Minister, Charlie Flanagan, who held his hand up, while contributing this er…great quote: “Oftentimes somebody might be racing down the stairs with three seconds to go and they might say press my button”. (In fairness to Flanagan, he wasn’t admitting to voting for absent friends; just for racing-down-the-stairs friends).

The ‘Most ambitious idea of the Week’ Award

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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No, we headed for a field…and we sat on the wall and slowed the world down! No iphones, no TV, no radio, no outside influences! How did it go? Great! We chatted…we soaked up the October sunshine. We revelled in not hearing about Brexit, or any of the other stuff. A news-free zone! Fresh air, birds singing! Sounds good! So, you’re imposing a media blackout…on yourself. And a technology blackout. Yes! I’ve had enough. I can’t take any more news or comment…or searching for chargers! So, all devices banned for now…I see. And you’ll find time for your Last of the Summer Wine style walks in the field… Yep! Cutting back on all interaction with the world? For now! I’m out of commission! COUNT ME OUT! Pity! Why? A friend of mine works in the media. He’s promised me two tickets for a junket… sponsored by one of the phone companies. Golf in the UK, a trip to the House of Commons thrown in. I was going to ask you, but…you’ll be on that wall…with your neighbours and your principles. Eh…phone me! Message me! Book me in online! I’m too young to sip Last of the Summer Wine!

PIC OF THE WEEK… Young fans pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the JFC/IFC finals’ double bill. Picture: Michael McCormack

Not to be outdone by the great wall-building Donald, British PM Boris has been talking about building a bridge between Northern Ireland and Scotland. Joe.ie reports that Taoiseach Leo Varadkar hasn’t dismissed the idea. Sounds far-fetched to us…but I guess we’ll…er…cross that bridge when we come to it.

What we liked…

What we didn’t like…

More GAA thrills and spills locally. Oran and Tulsk played a real thriller in the County Intermediate Football Final (it ended in a draw) while Ballinameen had a famous win over St. Brigid’s in the Junior Championship Final. Quite an achievement by Ballinameen…congratulations to all involved in the club on a great success.

Oh for God’s sake, not again. Another Rugby World Cup exit at the far from satisfactory ‘last eight’ stage. Yes, it was the All Blacks we were facing, but even so, what an anti-climatic finale for Ireland. The All Blacks (as ever) were pretty awesome, but, by our own high standards, we were very poor.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Rugby woe: seeking refuge with Jacob and Boris That was grim viewing on Saturday morning…not suitable for children, or indeed for rugby fans or dreamers. New Zealand 46 Ireland 14. Ireland made a tame exit from the Rugby World Cup, fanciful dreams of immortality dashed, live from Tokyo. Reality TV indeed. Always knew that Japanese reality TV could be scary enough! It was the great Moss Keane who once summed up an Ireland match thus: ‘The first half was even, the second half was even worse’. On Saturday, the first half wasn’t even even, if you follow. The first half was bad for Ireland, the second half wasn’t much better. Playing for pride, mused RTE commentator Hugh Cahill, but I’m not sure many viewers were in the mood to embrace salvaged pride. Back in studio, when we had been taken out of our misery, the guests were grim-faced, like revellers who had been told that a big party had been called off. Only Eddie O’Sullivan had the stomach for an immediate postmortem. All that was missing was a band playing ‘Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life’. I didn’t have the stomach for dour Eddie. I switched channels, seeking refuge in Boris and Jacob. Yes, you know it’s a bad afternoon when you’re switching over to a Brexit Debate to lift the gloom.

Word tells a thousand Pictures… Previous owners of the magnificent cinema in Roscommon Town

Young fans pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the JFC/IFC finals’ double bill. Picture: Michael McCormack

tried their best to keep the project (and projector) going, but I always felt that one basic error had been made: there was never a proper sign on the outside of the premises! I was delighted then to see that the new owners (Omniplex) recently put a sign in place. Great move! Better still if they could, in time, advertise the week’s movies outside the cinema, in the great tradition of cinemas worldwide! For now, good move. They say a picture tells a thousand words…you could say that here we have one word (‘Omniplex’) telling a thousand (motion) pictures…

Power of advertising! Tuesday morning was beautiful. The town was awake and positively beaming, the to-ing and fro-ing underway.

I noticed the big van parked just up from Roscommon Fire Station. Maybe it’s been around a while; I hadn’t noticed it before. But I noticed it now. Bright yellow in colour, it had a dramatic message, in huge lettering – ‘Killers for Hire’. It was parked just under a big poster for a circus (no, the election posters aren’t up yet, this is an actual circus, not a political one). The circus poster under the ‘Killers for Hire’ van said: ‘Daredevil circus’. I was confused. What was going on? Killer clowns? ‘Killers for Hire’. I knew that Roscommon’s fire-fighting heroes haven’t branched into freelance killing for hire. Then I looked more closely. All was revealed. In much, much smaller lettering on both sides of the van, below ‘Killers for Hire’… were the words: ‘Japanese Knotweed killing.com’. It’s my advertisement of the week.

At least this happened… Midst all the gloom that inhabits this world, there was some welcome good news, and the prospect of some welcome mischief and joy and amusement in 2020. Yeah, Davy Fitz has signed up for two more years as manager of Wexford hurlers…

This week’s… PRESS THAT BUTTON!

In this week’s episode of PRESS THAT BUTTON! (And win an afternoon off work for a friend)… Our first contestant is Timmy from Clare…he’s a Fianna Fáil TD and his hobbies include holding the Government to account while looking as if

butter most certainly would not melt in his mouth. Timmy’s playing partner is Niall from Limerick, also a Fianna Fáil TD and parttime altar boy. In today’s episode (recorded earlier) watch as Timmy and Niall meet up in the Dáil Chamber. Prepare to be astonished as Timmy whispers sweet nothings in Niall’s ear, points at his seat and then disappears. Prepare to be thrilled as Niall then sits in Timmy’s seat and votes for him (six times) while Timmy remains absent from the chamber. After the break: Our next contestant is Lisa from Mayo, also a Fianna Fáil TD. Her hobbies include tendencies towards smugness and being above reproach. Watch as Lisa tells RTE Radio that she has never voted on behalf of a colleague. Tune in later when Lisa reveals that she has voted on behalf of a colleague. Prepare to be entertained royally as Lisa explains that she sat in Dara Colleary’s seat by mistake…casting a vote on his behalf. Drama then as Lisa reveals that she realised she was in the wrong seat, then sat into her own seat and (thankfully) remembered to cast her own vote. Prepare to try to keep a straight face when Lisa explains that the reason she told RTE earlier that she had never voted for a colleague was because she took the question to mean…had she ever ‘intentionally’ or ‘knowingly’ voted for someone else. Next, our popular ‘X the TD’ segment – based on the old X the Ball competitions – in which we show you footage of the Dáil chamber, just as an important vote is due to take place, and invite members of the public to guess where their local TD is located (if at all). Coming soon: Your chance to vote for or against our TDs. Make sure you vote (or ask a friend to do it for you…) * In case I’m accused of advocating personation, I should stress that I didn’t write the above piece…I got a friend to write it while I was absent from the office.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

Fitzmaurice rejects Kerrane criticism  PAUL HEALY

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice has hit back at criticism by Sinn Féin of his approach to the fate of Castlerea Fire Station. Cllr. Fitzmaurice and Cllr. Nigel Dineen were both taken to task on social media this week by Sinn Féin spokesperson Claire Kerrane. On Facebook, Ms. Kerrane thanked her party colleague Cllr. Michael Mulligan for raising the matter at Monday’s meeting of Roscommon County Council “given neither Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice or Cllr. Nigel Dineen bothered”. But Cllr. Fitzmaurice says that by the time last Monday’s monthly Council meeting began, he had already raised the Castlerea Fire Station issue twice that day with CEO of the Council, Eugene Cummins. “As people will be aware, the Council met with retained firefighters in Castlerea on Monday morning. Even before that meeting took place, I discussed the issue with Mr. Cummins. When I met privately with Mr. Cummins on Monday morning, I asked him for an update on the matter”. Cllr. Fitzmaurice said that Mr. Cummins had informed him that the Council had commissioned a report, an assessment ‘on the community and area-based risk and fire service response for Castlerea fireground’. That report was not yet complete. Cllr. Fitzmaurice said that when the Corporate Policy Group met later on Monday morning, Mr. Cummins himself raised the issue. Both Cllr. Fitzmaurice and Dineen were present. Cllr. Fitzmaurice continued: “It is not fair for Claire Kerrane to suggest that either I or Cllr. Dineen have not been raising this issue. “The reality is that we have worn a path to the door of the Council CEO on this issue. I am very anxious to see Castlerea Fire Station reopen and will continue to work to pursue this”.

What Claire Kerrane posted on Facebook on Monday… ‘No decision made on the future of Castlerea Fire Station following a meeting with Retained Firefighters this morning. Thanks to Cllr. Michael Mulligan who raised the matter at this afternoon’s Council meeting seeking an update given neither Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice or Cllr. Nigel Dineen bothered’.

No decision yet on future of Castlerea Fire Station  DAN DOONER

No decision has been made yet on the future of Castlerea Fire Station. A meeting between Roscommon County Council officials and firefighters took place on Monday morning. A risk management review on the operation of the station, which includes an update on the area risk categorisation of the fireground covering Castlerea, is expected to be completed shortly. Meanwhile, Sinn Féin spokesperson for Roscommon, Claire Kerrane, has described comments made by the Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council Eugene Cummins in relation to Castlerea Fire Station as “outrageous”. Ms. Kerrane was speaking following a meeting of Roscommon County Council on Monday, during which Sinn Féin councillor Michael Mulligan requested an update on the future of Castlerea Fire Station. “People will be aware that a meeting was held with the full crew of the fire station along with the Chief Fire Officer earlier this week. There was widespread belief that this meeting was to outline the findings of a report, which we now

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understand, according to (Roscommon County Council CEO) Eugene Cummins, is not even complete. “In response to Cllr. Mulligan, Eugene Cummins stated that the outcome of the meeting regarding the future of Castlerea Fire Station was not a matter of concern to anyone else, especially non-elected members. I would bet that the people of Castlerea would beg to differ. This was an outrageous statement from the head of Roscommon

County Council,” she said. Ms. Kerrane added that she believed the delay in releasing the results of the report would allow time for Roscommon County Council to accept a meeting request from the Prison Officers Association and SIPTU which to date, they have refused. “This also allows the council time to actually consult with the people and businesses in Castlerea which to date, they have also ignored”.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople Paraic Horkan guests at Garden Club meeting The next meeting of Roscommon Garden Club will take place at 8 pm on Monday, November 4th at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. The club will welcome well-known garden expert, Paraic Horkan, as the guest speaker. The Horkan name is widely known throughout Ireland with regard to horticulture and pets. The Horkan family own six award winning garden and lifestyle centres, seven Petworld stores and two online store nationwide. Paraic is a leading gardening expert and is well-known for his regular radio broadcasts, television appearances and newspaper columns. Paraic’s talk will be on small gardens and containers and he will provide members with plenty of tips and ideas. Paraic’s talk on November 4th is one not to be missed.

‘Living well with Type 2 Diabetes’ event As part of the Healthy Ireland at Your Library programme and to celebrate World Diabetes Day, Roscommon Library is hosting a ‘Living well with Type 2 Diabetes’ evening on Thursday, November 14th from 6 pm to 7.45 pm. Speakers on the evening will include Margaret Kelly (RANP Diabetes), Catriona Rourke (Senior Podiatrist) and Madeline Spelman (Senior Dietician). This event is free, however booking is essential. For booking or further information, please phone 090637282/090-6637277 or email lkeane@

NEWS…at a glance

Thank you from Roscommon SPCA The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals members would like to express its gratitude to the people of Castlerea who gave so generously in the society’s recent annual street collection. Members would also like to thank local shop owners who allowed the society to collect outside and on their premises and to the volunteers who gave of their time. It is greatly appreciated. All money raised will go directly to the RSPCA’s spaying and neutering programme for cats.

Services at Knock Counselling Centre

Cloontuskert Tidy Towns volunteer James O’Neill (centre) was highly commended as a SuperValu Community Hero at the national final of the SuperValu TidyTowns Awards at the Helix, DCU. He is pictured with Darren Dunne, Martin Kelleher (MD, SuperValu) and Vincent Healy.

roscommoncoco.ie. Light refreshments served from 5.30 pm.

Free Retail Skills with IT course There is currently a free Retail Skills with IT course running in Roscommon town. Please phone Barry on 087-7794883 for more information.

Join Roscommon’s Spiritual Friends Roscommon Spiritual Friends meet on the first Thursday of every month in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon town at 7 pm. New members interested in the afterlife, angels, body, mind and spirit will be warmly welcomed. For more information, contact Mic on 0863688604 or Malcolm on 087-4565988.

Knock Counselling Centre promotes emotional, spiritual and mental wellbeing through the provision of professional counselling services to individuals, couples and adolescents. For further information or to arrange an appointment, please contact 094-9375032 or email counsellingoffice@knockshrine. ie.

Kids’ Halloween Disco in Clooneycolgan Lisaniskey National School Parents’ Association is hosting a ‘Spooktacular’ Kids’ Fancy Dress Halloween Disco in Clooneycolgan Community Centre this Sunday (27th) from 5 pm to 6.30 pm. Admission is €3 or €10 for a family of four or more. All are welcome!

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

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NewsPeople

Progress on 50bed extension at Portiuncula Hospital – Naughten Deputy Denis Naughten has confirmed that the HSE has sought the return of tenders within six weeks for the first phase of works for the 50-bedroomed ward block at Portiuncula Hospital, with work expected to commence on site in early 2020. He said: “Going to tender for these enabling works is a major step forward for the project and Minister Simon Harris has confirmed that he plans to visit the hospital early next month to meet staff and discuss with them the need for this vital project”. The HSE has sought tenders for the enabling works, which will comprise of the construction of a new vehicular and pedestrian access along with alterations to other existing vehicular and pedestrian access. Included also is the provision of new hard and soft landscaping areas. These enabling works will

Upgrading works at Loughnaneane Park Independent TD Denis Naughten has welcomed the commencement of upgrading works at Loughnaneane Park in Roscommon Town with over €200,000 being spent on works to address flooding on the footpaths. This investment is the first in a series of investments in the park including floodlighting the castle and installing a bandstand as well

as work by the Office of Public Works to open access to one of the towers in the castle itself. “The park is a great amenity for locals and visitors to the town and this investment is set to attract increasing numbers to the park,” stated Denis Naughten. “Roscommon County Council has also been exploring options for toilet fa-

cilities and has further plans for developing Loughnaneane Park into the future. “This investment is part of the overall plan to develop the Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands tourism brand and roscommon.ie visitor experience as well as making our county a better place in which to live and work,” concluded Deputy Naughten.

also comprise of the supply of services and utilities such as electricity, foul and storm drainage, water mains and telecommunications together with underpinning works to existing structures. Portiuncula Hospital will remain in operation to facilitate the construction of the 50-bedroomed ward block, which is set to start construction in 2021. Deputy Naughten added: “This timeline would tie in with the commitment which I secured in the Government development plan ‘Project Ireland 2040’ to have the new 50-bed ward block completed by 2022. “This is very welcome as the 50-bedroomed ward block at Portiuncula Hospital is now urgently required to address the chaotic situation that many patients and staff are facing in our local A&E Department”.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople newsbriefs Knockcroghery Text Alert subscriptions All Knockcroghery Text Alert subscriptions expired on September 30th. The renewal cost is €10 per mobile phone number. If you have not already renewed your subscription, you can still place €10 (per mobile number) in a sealed envelope with your name and number(s) and drop it in to Knockcroghery Post Office.

REGARI Recovery College events at Roscommon Library REGARI Recovery College is running a number of sessions at Roscommon Library throughout the month of November. The registration fee is €5 for the term, and once paid, all courses are free. Tuesday, November 5th: Holistic Approach to Recovery; Tuesday, November 12th: Understanding Self-Harm; Tuesday, November 19th: Young People and Mental Health; Tuesday, November 26th: Understanding Dementia. All courses run from 2 to 5 pm and registration can be done on the day of any of the modules. For further information, contact REGARI Recovery College on regarirecoverycollege@gmail.com.

Fundraising Table Quiz in The Bridge House Coiste Iomána and Roscommon Hurling are honouring the All-Ireland winning U-16 and minor hurling teams from 1969. A fundraising night is taking place in The Bridge House, Athleague, this Friday, October the 25th. A table quiz will take place at 9.30 pm with tables of four costing €40 and this will be followed by an auction. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Events at Clooneycolgan Community Centre Regular events at Clooneycolgan Community Centre include bingo every Monday at 8.30 pm, ceili dancing on Wednesdays at 8.30 pm, Progressive 25 Card Drive each Thursday at 9 pm, Over-50s keep fit classes with Thelma Keenan each Friday at 11 am and jiving/ waltzing, also on Fridays, at 6.30 pm. The Clooneycolgan Community Centre committee also hopes to present a drama night before Christmas. Please support.

Big ‘thank you’ from House Fire Committee The House Fire Benefit Committee and helpers at Carniska wish to thank the ticket buyers, donors, sponsors of the main draw, supporters of the function and raffle, Frank Nelson band and Frank’s Bar. The aim of the social was to help outfit the house and restore some personal effects. The amount raised by the House Fire Benefit Fund was €10,960. The account has now been dispatched in full. The committee thank the public for their generosity and full details are available on request.

Lisnamult Indoor Market this Sunday Lisnamult Indoor Market will take place at Greenfields Childcare Centre this Sunday (27th) from 12 pm to 4 pm. Come along and grab a bargain!

Lisnamult Draw winners for October The following are the winners of the Lisnamult Residents Draw for October: Martin Brehony (€100), Aisling Morris (€100), Betty Finneran (€50), Teresa Croghan (€25), Tony Shannon (€25), and Gerry McNulty (€25).

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

When dealing with our homeless crisis, is Eoghan in way over his bouncy blow-dry? According to the well-known traditional Irish ballad, ‘Dublin Saunter,’ (made famous by actor Noel Purcell), ‘Grafton Street’s a wonderland, there’s magic in the air;’ well folks, it’s not if you’re five years old, homeless and hungry. Don’t believe me? Just ask ‘Sam’ (not his real name), the innocent little five-year-old boy whose picture, taken as he sat on the cold concrete eating a dinner of carbonara off a sheet of cardboard, went viral last week. The image has sparked outrage, and rightly so. ‘Sam’s’ plight was brought to light when himself and his mammy sought the help of volunteers working with the Homeless Street Café charity on Dublin’s Grafton Street. Indeed, a volunteer who helped the family, was so upset they posted the image on social media, describing the scene as being ‘burned’ into their minds. Well I know how they feel, because, both as a mother, and as a human being, the situation has had an awful affect on me. In fact, I want to know how Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government Eoghan Murphy TD, would feel if his own family were forced into such a desperate situation on what is ironically, one of our capital’s most upmarket thoroughfares, known for boasting a who’s who of designer shops and posh-nosh eateries? In addition, having viewed ‘Sam’s’ picture and hearing how his, and other families whose lives have, through no fault of

their own, suddenly imploded, I quickly realised that myself and hubby, (like many other renters and homeowners living in Roscommon), are possibly in a similar situation. Indeed, as I digested ‘Sam’s’ story, the child’s parents’ predicament gave me a clear snapshot of the ever-changing landscape of Ireland’s homeless, highlighting for me what is a worrying phenomenon that charities are trying hard to highlight. It seems that this mother and her child are no different to people like you and me. They’re ordinary folk whom, before becoming homeless, were living ordinary lives. They’re not the so-called stereotypical homeless, rather they’re what is called ‘the new homeless,’ which I assume means they’re not experiencing a mental illness, nor are they substance abusers or criminals, etc. (Now I’m not generalising here, nor am I laying blame on anyone who is vulnerable or unfortunate enough to become homeless through substance

abuse or mental illness, etc., I’m simply using these scenarios as a regrettable comparison). Indeed I have enormous compassion for anyone who is experiencing difficulties of any kind. In fact, looking at my own situation, I realised that, like some of my readers, I too am possibly at risk of becoming homeless. I hope not…but I once had a big, beautiful showhouse of a home in Dublin. However, due to a painful marriage breakdown, (and yes, I know I was the one who walked out), in order to preserve my sanity and secure my freedom, I signed over my sanctuary to my ex. By doing that, I precariously placed myself in the distressing position of being so close to the edge of the homeless whirlpool, I became – like many renters – dangerously close to getting sucked in and drowning. It’s time Eoghan Murphy, (a man who appears to be so selfobsessed he should probably be cautioned for stalking himself), gets his perfectly quaffed head

out of his backside and does his job! And if he can’t, then he should resign due to what I’d deem to be his clear and disgraceful dereliction of duty. Readers, it’s up to you what political party you support, but when small children are forced to sit on cold concrete to eat their meals, when people who are in full-time unemployment can’t get access to mortgages, and when rents are rising to an unmanageable level, it’s time to re-think our voting preferences. Indeed, I’d say that Eoghan and his Department’s only real talent lies in their use of deceptively flowery language, used to circumvent the fact that his so-called efforts have proved highly ineffectual when it comes to tackling our country’s homeless and poverty crises. Indeed, given his blurb, which states his ‘responsibility is to provide the framework and the practical supports needed to build a society that enables our people to live fulfilling lives, in a safe, sustainable and environmentally-friendly manner,’ I’d go so far as to say Eoghan doesn’t understand his own brief. Perhaps it’s not his fault; perhaps he’s in way over his bouncy blow-dry…who knows? One thing’s for sure though, Eoghan’s – and this government’s – obvious failure and blatant ineptitude should be suitably recognised and rewarded in the same way any boss would react to an employee’s non-performance…with their P45 and the sack!

Is the Dáil the place where truth, honesty and ethics go to die? The scandalous revelations regarding the admission that Fianna Fáil TD Niall Collins voted on behalf of fellow TD Timmy Dooley six times in the Dáil last Thursday – while the latter was absent from the chamber – certainly paints a depressing and worrying picture of some of our country’s public representatives. Indeed, since the Dooley-Collins vote-gate disclosure, (described as a ‘misunderstanding’ – yeah, right) – it has transpired that a second Fianna Fáil frontbencher, Lisa Chambers (FF’s spokesperson on Brexit),

has also admitted to ‘mistakenly’ voting for colleague Dara Calleary. This ‘mistake’ apparently occurred when Lisa ‘sat in Dara Calleary’s seat’, which is ‘beside my seat’. Seriously? I mean if our TDs are so befuddled they can’t differentiate between which seat is which, how can we charge them with leading and protecting our country? This is a very serious issue we have here. The Dáil is the very place where our country’s legislation is created, amended and confirmed, and I for one would expect that all voting carried out would be above board.

Yet now, given this, (I was going to be nice and say discrepancy), but you all know I don’t mince my words, so I’ll call it what it is... betrayal, I want to ask two questions – 1: Can we trust our public representatives? 2: Is our Dáil the place where truth, honesty and ethics go to die? One thing’s for sure, I’ll bet these ’mistakes’ and ‘misunderstandings’ will cost FF dearly on the doorsteps, especially as they now provide the opposition with a golden opportunity to sling plenty of muck their way in the run-up to the General Election.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

Team Archie ready for third Dublin Marathon Focus on Roscommon Harriers: Page 21  DAN DOONER

This Sunday will see Team Archie aiming to complete their third Dublin City Marathon in a row. 13-year-old Archie Naughton and his two brothers, George and Isaac, suffer from the debilitating disease, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, and Archie will be in a specially adapted running buggy for Sunday’s event. Archie and his team have been putting in the hard miles over recent weeks and months and his coach Sinéad Gannon believes he is ready to complete his Dublin City Marathon hat-trick. “There is something very special about the Dublin Marathon. I have completed three of the world’s major marathons; New York, London and Berlin, but still nothing beats Dublin. It’s a combination of the camaraderie, the support along the route and the race director Jim Augh-

ney’s organisation of the event. “Three Team Archie members – myself, Adrian Smith and Tonya Hand – have been with Archie from day one. Sisters Elaine and Leigh Allen have also joined the team. This is Elaine’s second year with Team Archie and Leigh’s first. “Each year the Dublin Marathon gets better with Archie. Nearly everybody knows him along the route now and each corner you turn puts another pep in the step. It’s a wonderful feeling as we reach the finish line and are greeted by Team Archie supporters,” she said. According to his coach, Archie has had to work hard on his core and leg strength in order to prepare for the impact of the 26 miles this Sunday. But while preparations have been tough, Archie and the rest of the team are really looking forward to this year’s Dublin City Marathon. This year, Team Archie will have over 60 participants running and walking in aid of Archie and the Join Our Boys Trust. This year hasn’t been easy on the Naughton family as the three boys continue to

endure the catastrophic disease. Team Archie aim to continue in their efforts to raise awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, while raising much-needed funds for research and the construction of a specially adapted house for the boys. This Sunday will see some wellknown Rossies don the orange colours of Team Archie and Join Our Boys as they ‘keep moving’ towards the Dublin City Marathon finish line. * Sincere thanks are extended to Gleeson’s, MJ Farrell Jewellers and Class Grass for sponsorship. Their continued support is greatly appreciated.

Coffee Morning this Friday A Coffee Morning in aid of Team Archie’s 3rd Dublin City Marathon bid will be held in Gleeson’s R & R, The Square, Roscommon this Friday, 25th of October from 11 am-1 pm. All support greatly appreciated.

Archie Naughton pictured with coach Sinéad Gannon (front, right) and members of Team Archie ahead of Sunday’s Dublin City Marathon.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

Murphy raises concerns over ongoing ﬂooding

Picture at the official opening of the new Mayo/Roscommon Hospice in Castlebar last Friday were (l-r): Senator Maura Hopkins, Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring, Martina Jennings, CEO, Mayo/Roscommon Hospice, Minister for Health Simon Harris, and Joanne Hynes, Chairperson, Mayo/Roscommon Hospice.

New Hospice Unit ‘to go to tender in November’  PAUL HEALY

The eight-bedroomed Hospice Unit which is planned for Roscommon Town is expected to go to tender in the next three weeks, according to Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins. She was speaking as the new privately funded, purpose-built Mayo/Roscommon Hospice was officially opened in Castlebar last Friday. The 14-bed facility was constructed with funds raised from public donations over more

than twenty years and is expected to take in residential patients from next spring. Speaking at the official opening, Senator Hopkins said the new hospice was a testament to those across Roscommon and Mayo who had “fundraised tirelessly”. “This new hospice serving our region will enable the dedicated staff and volunteer team to provide the greatest level of support and comfort to those who need hospice or palliative care. It will offer inpatient care, outpatient services and the home-based team will

be based from this facility. “It is very obvious that every effort has been made to make this new hospice as comfortable and family-friendly as possible”. Senator Hopkins paid tribute to Mayo/Roscommon CEO Martina Jennings and her team for leading a €9 million fundraising drive. She added: “Mayo/Roscommon Hospice are also making good progress on the planned eight-bedroomed purpose hospice unit in Roscommon town, with the project due to go to tender in the next three weeks”.

Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Flood Relief and Office of Public Works, Eugene Murphy TD, has raised concerns over numerous high-risk flooding areas along the River Shannon with the Minister for State for the Office of Public Works and Flood Relief. Deputy Murphy said: “There is much fear among communities living near the River Shannon. 41% of the rainfall experienced in the year to date has occured since August 1st. Land is saturated, and the River Shannon is beyond its normal capacity. “The Minister has recently visited Tarmonbarry on the Roscommon-Longford border. There is red tape before work can be carried out, however, when places are at risk of flooding a faster solution should be sought. Tarmonbarry is one such case. “Jamestown, also along the River Shannon, is at risk and has experienced much flooding g in recent years. There is a fear locally that flooding will expand in the region. on. “I would urge the Minister to investigate these projects and give priority to the work required. The Government has made many announcements and longer term plans but the reality is communities are at risk, land is becoming unusable and the Government should step in now,” concluded Deputy Murphy.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

Local solicitors: ‘Roscommon Courthouse to close in January’ ‘Shocked’ solicitors called to meeting with Courts Service today  PAUL HEALY

Local solicitors have reacted with shock to what they fear is an immediate threat to the future of court services in Roscommon Town. The solicitors, who only received 48 hours’ notice of a meeting with the Courts Service which is scheduled for today (Thursday), say their understanding is that Roscommon Courthouse will be closing from January 2020. They have expressed fears that it may not re-open for several years, and that District and Circuit Court sittings will be moved to neighbouring towns in January – as opposed to the alternative option of finding a new venue in Roscommon Town. While the courthouse will be closing for refurbishment purposes, Roscommon Bar Association says that no re-opening date has been indicated, and works might not even commence within the next few years – and may not be finished by 2027. Local solicitor Sean Mahon, speaking on behalf of Roscommon Bar Association, said that indications that District and Circuit Court sittings may be leaving Roscommon Town from as early as January next have come as an “enormous shock” to local solicitors. He said there has been no consultation whatsoever with local solicitors. On Tuesday of this week, solicitors were contacted by email and asked to attend a meeting at the courthouse today (Thursday) to discuss the future of both District and Circuit Court sittings. As users of the courthouse, local Gardai have also been invited to that meeting. Speaking to the Roscommon People on Wednesday evening, Mr. Mahon, who is Secretary of Roscommon Bar Association and a former President of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, said: “The Courts Service has indicated to local solici-

newsbriefs ‘I Do Not Like Thee, Doctor Fell’ to be staged in Keadue Cill Dara Drama Group will present ‘I Do Not Like Thee, Dr. Fell’ in St. Ronan’s Hall, Keadue on Sunday, October the 27th at 8 pm. The director of the play is Drumboylan native Cait ReganCusack. This comedy tells the story of six people who are locked in a room for therapy that promises to probe their own lives. However, they get more than they bargained for when Joe Fell exposes their real social and sexual secrets. There are many twists and surprises in this great comedy by Bernard Farrell. It certainly makes for a good night’s entertainment. Please come along to St. Ronan’s Hall this Sunday.

Ten men in court over ‘funeral home ambush’

The Courthouse in Roscommon town.

tors and Gardai that Roscommon Courthouse is due to be closed from January onwards, with no indication of a re-opening date. “While the refurbishment and redevelopment of the courthouse is great news and badly needed, the possibility of the business being moved to Carrick-on-Shannon or some other town is utterly unacceptable”. Mr. Mahon said the news had come as an “enormous surprise and shock” and that there had been no consultation up to this point. The Courts Service purchased the courthouse (a protected structure) from Roscommon County Council in 2017. Mr. Mahon accepts that it had been known for many years that the building requires extensive upgrading and renovation.

He added: “It would seem that the last two years have been completely wasted by the Courts Service. No attempt was made in that time to consult with local solicitors or the wider public”. Mr. Mahon said that local solicitors now believe it is the intention of the Courts Service to close the courthouse in January and to move sittings to Carrick-on-Shannon or some other town. He said this would result in a significant loss of business to Roscommon Town and severely affect shops, restaurants and hotels. It will also greatly inconvenience people who have business in the court, he said, adding “no regard appears to have been given to the court users”. Mr. Mahon said the “late notification of the plan to close the court-

house” shows a complete disregard to the importance of the facility to local businesses, the court users and general public, including solicitors, for whom it is a place of work. On the issue of sourcing alternative accommodation, the Bar Association says any plan to move sittings to another town would be unacceptable. Mr. Mahon said that is now essential that alternative accommodation within the town of Roscommon is located so that the court service will be available to serve the people of the town and county. “There are numerous premises that can be made available to the Courts Service, both public and private, to facilitate and ensure that the business of the court remains in Roscommon”.

No funding or contract yet ... ‘It could be 2027 before refurbishment is completed’  PAUL HEALY

Local solicitors have warned that if Roscommon Courthouse is closed in January – albeit for longmooted and welcome refurbishment – it may not reopen for as many as seven or eight years. In a statement to the Roscommon People, Roscom-

mon Bar Association said: “The Government’s National Development Plan 2018-2027 envisaged a refurbished courthouse to be provided in Roscommon, amongst other towns, but the Plan does not stipulate the timing of the providing of the funding. “Ultimately it will be a matter for Government to prioritise the funding for each individual project and make specific provision for the project.

“In this instance no indication has been given as to when the funding will be provided or the work commence. “In fact no contract has been entered into for the carrying out of the works or a plan of the intended works prepared. The reality is that the works will probably not commence within the next three or four years and will conceivably not be finished by 2027”.

Ten men received suspended sentences for their parts in what was described as a “planned ambush” at Smyth’s Funeral Home in Roscommon town two years ago. The incident in which a man was attacked with machetes, knives and chains, followed a prolonged feud between cousins in families based in Dublin and Roscommon. Michael Mongan from Roscommon town was attending the funeral of his sister-in-law when he was set upon in what was described as a “savage attack”. Gardaí identified all eleven people from CCTV footage. They were all given suspended sentences ranging from two years to seven years in duration.

Pedestrian crossings: Safety concern Cllr. Marty McDermott has called for red lights to be used at all pedestrian crossings in Roscommon Town, amidst concerns over the safety of children and adults. Cllr. McDermott told the Roscommon People that the pedestrian crossing in Main Street, Roscommon is very effective because motorists are obliged to stop ‘at red’. In contrast, other pedestrian crossings in the town – including at local schools – operate in such a way that it is at the discretion of motorists whether or not to stop. “When it’s left to the discretion of motorists whether to stop or not, there is an increased safety concern…especially when the pedestrian crossing is beside a school. It is much more desirable that these pedestrian crossings operate with a red light, compelling the motorist to slow down and ultimately stop their car”.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

STRAIGHT TALKING

WITH SEAMUS DUKE

Votegate: How to treat the electorate with disdain I realise that Brexit, the housing crisis and homelessness are far more pressing issues for people, but the disdain that many of our politicians show for the electorate is clear for all to see in the current controversy over TDs casting votes on behalf of fellow TDs in the Dáil chamber. If I turned up at a voting booth with two polling cards I would be in big trouble, and rightly so. I don’t think it’s too much to ask TDs who are earning almost €100,000 a year to attend in the chamber when they are supposed to vote. It only takes a few seconds to cast a vote. What really annoys people is when politicians try to cover up their mistakes when they are found to have acted wrongly…rather than owning up. I happened to hear Lisa Chambers on radio on Sunday when she denied point-blank that she had ever voted on behalf of anyone else. Then, when she was exposed on Sunday evening, she produced the greatest load of codswallop I have heard for some time. Deputy Chambers indicated that she had misunderstood the question. She thought she was being asked did she “intentionally, knowingly, purposefully” vote for somebody else. “It was a long week and I was tired” came the next excuse. Who do these people think that they are codding? She was badly caught out and should have apologised. It’s as simple as that. This controversy puts Micheál Mar-

tin in a bind because he accepted the explanation given by Chambers, while turfing Timmy Dooley and Niall Collins off the front bench. He obviously didn’t believe their explanations as to why they were voting for someone else. Double standards? I have no doubt that as this controversy rumbles on, TDs of all parties and none will be accused of this carry-on. But what implications could it have for the legality of bills which it could now possibly be argued were passed by votes which were illegal? That’s the big question. It would appear at the time of writing

“

I don’t think it’s too much to ask TDs who are earning almost €100,000 a year to attend in the chamber when they are supposed to vote

that Fianna Fáil have far more questions to answer than their rivals…which is another boost to Leo Varadkar and Fine Gael. Yet the Taoiseach must be very frustrated that the Brexit puzzle is still as complicated as it has ever been, as right now would be a very opportune time to go to the country for a General Election. However, back to the issue at hand, and while Votegate may not seem that important to the majority of people, the fact is that the Constitution states that TDs must be present to cast their vote. It’s the law of the land. There is a view held by many analysts that this Dáil has been the least productive in the history of the State and that it is paralysed by Brexit. We now have a situation where there are certain TDs who treat the electorate with such apathy that they do not even show up to press a button to vote on the issues that are discussed in a given week. The Ceann Comhairle is conducting an investigation into this matter. I hope that his report is revealing and transparent and that the practice of people voting for colleagues is stopped. What implications this controversy will have on politics in general is another matter. At the moment, three Fianna Fáil front bench TDs are either suspended or (in the case of Deputy Chambers) in the full glare of controversy. However, I have a feeling that Fine Gael might be dragged into this before the week is out. It’s another fine mess!

NOTICE TO BUILDING CONTRACTORS Tenders are invited from competent experienced Building Contractors to construct a

Cookery School & Ancillary Siteworks at Cloonybeirne, The Walk, Roscommon. Please contact seamusmurray60@gmail.com for a full suite of tender documents which are mandatory for tender submissions. The tender submission deadline is Monday 18th November 2019 at 12.00 noon. Tenders received after this date will not be accepted. Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. 2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle Street. Roscommon. M. 087 2222874.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople newsbriefs

Pictured at the annual Toronto GAA Awards Night recently were Aisling Owens (Strokestown), Elaine Kelly (Roscommon) and Aishling Callaghan (Tulsk), members of St. Pat’s GAA Club Toronto.

Ballinameen fans celebrate title win…

Special Mass for Healing in Curraghboy A Special Mass for Healing will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, Athlone this Friday (25th), commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr. John Walsh. Confessions will be available from 7 pm, prior to the commencement of Holy Mass. Individual Blessings for Healing and Benediction will take place after Mass. All are most welcome. Contact 086-4054489.

Pictured at last Sunday’s JFC Final between Ballinameen and St. Brigid’s at Dr. Hyde Park, Roscommon. Picture: Michael McCormack

Line Dancing in Ballinlough every Sunday Line Dancing classes with Mary Kathleen take place every Sunday from 7 pm to 8.30 pm in Kiltullagh Enterprise, Ballinlough. Always a very enjoyable evening and great for exercise. All age groups and beginners welcome.

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A ‘Self Care to Wellness’ programme for people living with an ongoing or long-term health condition is starting on Monday, November 4th in Castlerea Primary Care Centre, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The course is for two 1/2 hours each day and runs for six weeks. The programme costs €20. For further information contact Jackie Lynott on 087-7185615/094-9034980 or email selfcaretowellness@mayocil.ie.

‘27 Wagons Full of Cotton’ this Friday Roscommon Arts Centre advises that the planned lunchtime production of Roscommon Drama Group’s One-Act Festival show will take place this Friday (25th) at 1.10 pm and not as previously advertised, i.e. on Friday, October 18th. Original tickets are still valid for this date. The arts centre apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

Fundraising ‘80s and ‘90s Video Disco this Friday David Bowie, Prince, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, Dire Straits, Phil Collins, The Bee Gees, Cher, Michael Jackson, Status Quo and Whitney Houston are some of the biggest names in music from the 1980s and ‘90s. This Friday night, October the 25th, you can hear and see them all in action in a special fundraising video disco at Nancy’s Night-

club in Roscommon town.The fundraiser is in aid of Roscommon Palliative Care, who continue to assist with patients in the local area. Any family who have worked with these amazing people will know the fantastic service they provide at a very difficult time. Their service is provided in association with the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice and is only supported

‘We’re watching history… Pearses have won the cup’ Jimmy Kenny

Congrats to our local heroes Ye have made our dreams come true Let’s forget about the ones we lost Now let’s stride to make it two. We think of all the heartache That we witnessed through the years As our youngsters waved the red and white And mature men were reduced to tears. This game was full of colour As we waved the red and white With Pat Flanagan pacing up the line Shouting ‘Keep it Tight’ Standing in the grandstand I heard this woman roar Give the shagging ball to Carey Cos I know that he can score. Let’s not forget about Roscommon Gaels Who matched us stride for stride But there can be just one winner Of the final in the Hyde. Now let’s thank Shannonside For the coverage that they brought As we celebrate this one And the battles that we fought. This game is nearly over now. The cup is going south The ref is standing centre field The whistle in his mouth. Willie Hegarty is on the radio He says the time is up He says we’re watching history Pearses have won the cup.

Sensational Halloween

by private donations. There is a late bar on the night and the cost of entry is only €10. We ask everyone to support if they can and to help make this fundraiser a success. There are tickets available in Down the Hatch, The Central, Cattigan’s, The Hollywood, Nancy’s Nightclub and RosMed Pharmacy. For further details, call 0868335380. (Advertorial).

Green light for resurfacing works at The Walk Cllr. Marty McDermott , left, says that urgently required resurfacing works at The Walk, Roscommon will be carried out in the New Year. Cllr. McDermott said that he had been approached by a number of residents in the area, all of whom expressed concerns about problems posed by excess surface water at The Walk. Cllr. McDermott has met with the relevant senior engineer in Roscommon County Council and has received “assurances” that the necessary works will be carried out. He pointed out that the first step in the process will be to carry out drainage works. These works are expected to commence at the end of the year or in the first weeks of the New Year – followed by the resurfacing works.

Pat McDonagh is main speaker at ‘insurance forum’ Supermac’s owner Pat McDonagh will be the main guest speaker at a major forum on the need to tackle insurance costs which will be held in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Monday, November the 4th (8 pm). The insurance forum is being organised by Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy who says the Government must take urgent action to tackle excessive insurance costs for businesses, families and motor insurance customers. He believes the situation is now unsustainable and government action is required to tackle the problem. The forum will include a range of speakers including Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Enterprise and Jobs Robert Troy, a representative from the Alliance for Insurance Reform, as well as several business people, including Martin Mulligan of Mulligan’s Service Station in Athlone.

VIDEO DISCO at Nancy’s Nightclub, Roscommon on Friday 25th October

Hear all the hits and watch the videos on big screens with VJs Brendan Nugent and Seamus Duke

Please support DOORS OPEN AT 10pm TICKETS €10

All proceeds to Roscommon Palliative Care & Breast Cancer Research

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

Rita Oates, Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher (Roscommon Tidy Towns Association), Larry Brennan (Roscommon Town Team), Mary Gleeson and Caitlin McConn (President, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce). Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Radoslav Horvath (Tús scheme), Rita Oates, Caitlin McConn (President, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce), Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher (Roscommon Tidy Towns Association) and Erik Klempar (Tús scheme). Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

‘Flower Power’ project blooming… thanks to great voluntary support  PAUL HEALY

Five years since the colourful initiative was first launched, Roscommon’s ‘Flower Power’ project is…blooming! This initiative was started by a small group of community-conscious local ladies, who set about sourcing and erecting beautiful flower displays at locations in Roscommon Town. The ‘flower planters’ take centre stage during the summer months and have greatly enhanced the image of the town, attracting much favourable comment from locals and tourists alike. The project is led by local businesswomen Rita Oates and Mary Gleeson, both of whom emphasise that they receive tremendous support from Roscommon Town Team and from a number of other volunteers. When I recently discussed the project with Rita, she was glowing in her praise for the support within the community. “We have received great support from Roscommon Town Team. Funding provided by Roscommon Town Team over the past few years has been much appreciated. We are very grateful for this support”. Rita also acknowledged the support of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and the business community. Rita and Mary also wanted to highlight the tremendous assistance that they have received from the Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee. Here at the Roscommon People, we always like to acknowledge the huge effort put in by the Christmas Lights Committee each year, but as Rita points out, their generosity with their time now extends to a new seasonal commitment as they actively support the flowers’ project. “We cannot thank the ‘Christmas

Lights’ lads enough” says Rita. “It is just amazing what they do year in year out. They are brilliant people who give their time so generously every year, putting in countless hours’ work on the lights. Then, when we approached them about the flowers, their response was just fantastic. We are so grateful to them. They are community champions”. Members of the Christmas Lights Committee arrange to erect about 80 containers of flowers at various locations in town. This means more evenings out and about, in all sorts of weather conditions! Rita also acknowledged the support of Roscommon Tidy Towns who have arranged for workers on the Tús scheme to water the flowers twice weekly. Also thanked is Dominic Martin, who stores and maintains the flowers. The ever-growing project has gone down very well with the public. Rita Oates: “People really seem to like them. One local woman came into our shop (ETL) and volunteered a donation, she was so impressed! Roscommon’s marks in the Tidy Towns competition have been increasing, and we know that these beautiful flowers have helped…tourists have commented positively too. We have a great town and we feel that these flowers help to show it off in all its beauty. We are so grateful to everybody who helps to make it happen”.

Members of the Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee immediately switched their seasonal focus when approached to help on the flowers’ project. “We cannot thank the ‘Christmas Lights’ lads enough” says Rita Oates. “It is just amazing what they do year in year out. They are brilliant people who give their time so generously every year, putting in countless hours’ work on the lights. When we approached them about the flowers, their response was just fantastic”.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

N60 at Oran to reopen on Friday The stretch of the N60 on the main Roscommon/Castlerea road which has been the subject of extensive roadworks will reopen this Friday evening, 25th of October. Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, told the Roscommon

People that he is very pleased that the road is reopening, particularly in light of the inconvenience caused to householders over the duration of the works. He expressed thanks to local people for their patience and cooperation.

Christmas Day

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Pictured at last Sunday’s JFC Final between Ballinameen and St. Brigid’s at Dr. Hyde Park, Roscommon. Picture: Michael McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

FarmingPeople

Farm with care  NOEL MANNION, TEAGASC, ROSCOMMON

Roscommon / Longford Area Unit

Farm Safety Half-Day Training Courses covering Farm Safety Code of Practice Risk Assessment Document TAMS 11 applicants may need to complete this course Courses are at the following venues, dates and times: • Teagasc Office, Longford - Friday, 8th November • Teagasc Office, Roscommon - Monday, 11th November • Teagasc Office, Castlerea - Tuesday, 12th November • Teagasc Office, Ballinasloe - Thursday, 14th November All Courses run from 10a.m to 1p.m. Course place costs €30 per participant. ESSENTIAL TO BOOK YOUR PLACE IN ADVANCE Phone: Teagasc Roscommon – 090 6626166

Teagasc Castlerea Teagasc Longford

– 094 9620160 – 043 3341021

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival

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

THURSDAY, 24TH OCTOBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS SATURDAY, 26TH OCTOBER:

ABERDEEN ANGUS WEANLING SALE IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR SATURDAY WEANLING SALE MONDAY, 28TH OCTOBER:

WEEKLY BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY, 31ST OCTOBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS SATURDAY, 9TH NOVEMBER:

HORSE SALE FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

Farming continues to be the most dangerous sector in which to work. Dealing with machinery, livestock, electricity, chemicals and slurry, to name but a few, poses a high level of risk. So far this year 15 people have lost their lives on farms in work-related accidents. Farmers must do their best to farm with care and to encourage each other to consciously prioritise safety and health. The vast majority of accidents on farms are preventable. Half-Day Farm Safety Course To improve awareness on the importance of prioritising farm safety and health,

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

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vice on best procedures to follow when completing this document will be given at the course. The course fee is €30 and places are open to Teagasc clients and non-clients. Contact your local Teagasc

To improve awareness on the importance of prioritising farm safety and health, Teagasc are providing half-day training courses in November

also be able to review health and safety legislation to ensure each participant is aware of their responsibilities in this area. Participants will receive the new, updated Risk Assessment document. Ad-

office for further information. TAMS 11 All TAMS applicants must have completed a half-day Farm Safety Code of Practice course (provided by

Teagasc or other trained persons) or the QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Green Cert) within the last five years prior to submission of a payment claim. Your claim for payment under TAMS 11 will not be processed until evidence of course completion is provided. Teagasc provides a local advisory and education services to farmers. They have an office based in Roscommon, which can be contacted on 0906626166. Their Longford branch can be reached by calling 043-3341021 and the Castlerea office can be contacted by calling 094-9620160. For more information visit www. facebook.com/Teagascroscommonlongford/.

Open Day at MCL Agri this Saturday! This Saturday (26th), MCL Agri are once again holding their hugely popular annual open day at their premises in Lanesboro, Co. Longford (N39 Y2A3). Similar to previous years, it promises to be a great day with representatives from Kiernan Milling, Grennan’s and Goldstar Animal Feeds providing nutritional advice and information on new and existing products for the upcoming winter/spring feeding seasons.

Free silage analysis will be carried out on the day, with instant results! As always there will be huge discounts on feed, animal remedies/dosing, clothing/footwear and much more! Heavy hardware items such as gates, posts and wire will have their prices slashed on the day as part of an ‘end of season sale’. The fuel depot at MCL Agri stocks a vast range of solid fuels including coal, turf, bri-

quettes and logs. There will also be ‘Bundle Deal’ offers on the day at unbeatable prices… don’t miss out! For those who fancy themselves as eagleeyed stock judges, our popular, yet sometimes controversial ‘Guess the weight’ competition will also be making a return! So come along to MCL Agri in Lanesboro this Saturday for an Open Day not to be missed!

Roscommon People MART WATCH Roscommon Mart sample prices Weanling heifers Char 365kgs €935 - €2.56 per kilo, BBX 305kgs €905 - €2.96 per kilo, Lim X 340kgs €875 - €2.57 per kilo, Char X 295kgs €855 €2.89 per kilo, PTX 320kgs €800 - €2.50 per kilo, Lim X 295kgs €740 - €2.50 per kilo, Char X 275kgs €740 - €2.69 per kilo, Char X 285kgs €900 - €3.15 per kilo, BBX 310kgs €820 - €2.64 per kilo, Char X 255kgs €705 - €2.76 per kilo.

Weanling bulls

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Teagasc are providing half-day training courses in November. The course will review health and safety statistics to identify the areas known to cause farm accidents. Course participants will

Char X 390kgs €1180 - €3.02 per kilo, Char X 290kgs €1100 - €4

per kilo, Char X 330kgs €1145 - €3.46 per kilo, Char X 365kgs €1055 - €2.89 per kilo, Lim X 385kgs €980 - €2.54 per kilo, Lim X 340kgs €925 - €2.72 per kilo, Char X 310kgs €895 - €2.88 per kilo, Char X 295kgs €880 - €2.98 per kilo, 2 Char X 360kgs €865 - €2.40 per kilo, Lim X 285kgs €845 - €2.96 per kilo, Char X 250kgs €800 - €3.20 per kilo, AA 330kgs €790 - €2.31 per kilo, Char 285kgs €700 - €2.45 per kilo.

Finished lambs 49.6kgs €98, 61.5kgs €98, 48.3kgs €97, 48.2kgs €97, 50.2kgs €96, 50.2kgs €96, 46kgs €95.50, 51.4kgs €95, 48.5kgs €95.

Manager’s report… Brendan Egan, Castlerea Mart “Large numbers of stock presented for sale again this week with trade remaining steady and prices holding especially for the quality lots on offer. “The heifer ring reported a good clearance with the better quality heifers slightly improved and in the weanling rings demand was strongest for the quality lots, with plainer type lots a little harder sold. “Breeding stock and the cry cows reported a good clearance with prices and trade similar to last week. “Sales continue today (Thursday 24th) with our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am”.

Manager’s report… Maura Quigley, Roscommon Mart “There was another large entry of top-quality stock on offer at Tuesday’s sale of weanlings and suckler cows. Prices for bulls averaged from €2.30 per kilo up to a top price of €4 per kilo for a Char X weighing 290kgs and fetching €1,160. “Prices for weanling heifers were improved this week with lots making from an average of €2.33 per kilo up to €3.15 per kilo. “Once again this week, farmers and exporters were very active. A special entry of springers made from €1,780 up to €2,450. “The mart will host a special sale of weanlings on Tuesday (29th) at 5 pm. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm this evening (Thursday 24th). “Also next Tuesday (29th), there will be a special entry of 48 excellent-quality in-calf heifers. All heifers are calving down 30 to 36 months old in calf to pedigree Limousin bull, and calving from November 1st onwards. All vaccinated for Lepto and IBR and some heifers with stars. Scanning dates available at the sale. Contact Michael Cuddy on 083-8420400 or Roscommon Mart on 090-6626352”.

Castlerea Mart sample prices Heifers

Weanling bulls

Lim 410kg €985, Ch 400 €880, Ch 440kg €1085, Lim 475kg €1120, Lim 495kg €1040, Ch 670kg €1420, Ch 610kg €1280, Ch 635kg €1325, Lim 495kg €1040.

Ch 295kg €855, Ch 285kg €840, Ch 285kg €800, Ch 350kg €1180, BBx 325kg €1040, Ch 360kg €1000, Ch 305kg €980, Ch 480kg €995.

Dry cows

Weanling heifers

BBx 905kg €1560, Lim 805kg €1395, Ch 760kg €1370, Ch 805kg €1350, AA 965kg €1525, Sim 730kg €1190.

Ch 295kg €870, Ch 270kg €820, Ch 265kg €800, Chx 320kg €950, Ch 300kg €940, Ch 310kg €840, Ch 315kg €835.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

FarmingPeople

(Proudly serving farmers for over 60 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows

Hanley sets his sights on Connacht IFA chair  DAN DOONER

Each Friday at 11 a.m. ------------------------------------

Extra Special Sale of Heifers Friday, October 25th at 11 a.m. 115 pens of Heifers on offer Also Bullocks & Dry Cows Yard opens at 7.30 a.m. All cattle must be penned by 10 a.m. Viewing from 10.30 a.m. to 11 a.m -----------------------

Winter Special Sale of Bullocks Friday, November 1st at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, October 24th

Also Heifers and Dry Cows ------------------------------------

Winter Special Sale of Heifers Friday, November 8th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, October 31st

Also Bullocks and Dry Cows ------------------------------------

Special Sale of Cont X Weanlings Tuesday, October 29th at 5 p.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, October 24th ------------------------------------

Tuesday, October 29th at 6 p.m.

Special Entry of 48 Excellent Quality in Calf Heifers Lim X & Simm X All Heifers calving down 30 to 36 months old in calf to Pedigree Limousin Bull calving from 1st November onwards All Heifers vaccinated for Lepto and IBR, Some Heifers with stars Scanning dates available at the sale Contact Michael Cuddy at 0838420400. Or Roscommon Mart at 090 6626352 ------------------------------------

Winter Special Sale of Weanlings Tuesday, November 5th at 5 p.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 31st

There was a good turnout at Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon last Saturday evening as Creggs man John Hanley launched his bid to become Chairman of the Connacht branch of the Irish Farmers Association. Mr. Hanley, who served as county chairman of the association from 2014 to 2018, faces a challenging task as he bids to become the first provincial chair from Roscommon since Joe Murphy in 1985. Joining Mr. Hanley last Saturday night to launch his campaign was Roscommon IFA Chairman Jim O’Connor, who was full of praise for the man from Kilbegnet. “No-one I know is better suited to this role. John has been involved with many strands of agriculture…his involvement with the IFA and agriculture is not contained to Kilbegnet either. The Hanleys have hosted (events such as) the International Sheepdog Trials and Ploughing Championships, and John is closely associated with the Roscommon Lamb Festival,” he said. Former Macra na Feirme President Sean Finan was also in attendance to officially launch Mr. Hanley’s campaign. He said: “In 2015 I stood at the launch of my own campaign for Macra na Feirme President. I was successful and my election campaign was the foundation of that success. “I hope we can now set the foundation stones for

John Hanley receives best wishes for his campaign from former Macra President Sean Finan and Roscommon IFA Chair Jim O’Connor at his campaign launch for Connacht IFA Chair in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon, on Saturday night last. Pic: Mick McCormack

John’s campaign. No doubt you’ll leave here brimming with enthusiasm to convince board members to elect this man,” he said. John Hanley thanked those present for their support as well as executives from both Roscommon and Leitrim for putting his name forward for election. “Since the nomination I have been contacted by many farmers across Connacht offering support in the coming weeks and while I am on the road meeting members across the province, I would like to thank my brother Brian and father Noel for keeping the show on the road. Without their work at home, I wouldn’t be able to keep the farm work done at

the moment. “The reason that I am contesting this election is that farmers in Connacht need action. They need action on farm incomes and a range of other measure which will help safeguard the future of the family farm in the west. “I am well aware of the genuine anger and frustration that is out there in relation to the issue of farm incomes. Farmers in the west, particularly in the vulnerable sectors such as suckler and sheep, have seen their incomes eroded, as input prices rise and the prices offered for their produce fall to disgraceful levels of 20 years ago,” he said. Mr. Hanley said he be-

lieved the family farm was under threat adding that the sector was losing 1% of farmers annually. “Farming is always an uncertain business, dependent on lots of variables, including weather, international markets and trade deals, which are outside our control, but we do need to be assured that if we are producing top quality produce that we are going to be rewarded properly,” he said. Mr. Hanley also highlighted the threat the agriculture sector faces from Brexit and the Mercosur deal and called on farmers to stand up for the rights of Irish and European consumers to access safe food. Mr. Hanley also dis-

cussed issues such as the Early Retirement Scheme, falling suckler numbers, and the Sheep Welfare Scheme, and expressed his belief that cut-off weight limits for lambs should be removed. He also questioned the practice of “farming by calendar”, saying it made no sense. He added that schemes such as CAP and ANC were vital for farmers in the west who faced the threat of flooding once again this year. Concluding, Mr. Hanley said that minds at national level “needed to be focussed” on issues in Connacht and that it was important farmers in the province had a strong voice on the national stage.

Also Special Entry of 20 Lim X Cows with strong calves at foot ------------------------------------

Premier Show & Sale of Pedigree Simmental Cattle Saturday, October 26th Show at 8 a.m. Sale at 12 Noon 45 Bulls and 68 Heifers ------------------------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. All sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set ------------------------------------

Funds for Bothar Sheep Auction Wednesday, November 13th at 11 a.m. PLEASE SUPPORT

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

John Hanley pictured with his family at his campaign launch for Connacht IFA Chair in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon, on Saturday night last. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople

Fáilte Ireland today announced investment of €3.9million for the new National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park in Co. Roscommon. The total project cost, including funding from the owners of Strokestown Park House, Westward Holdings Ltd - in partnership with the Irish Heritage Trust - will be €5.1million. The Fáilte Ireland €3.9milion is the largest investment to be made in a visitor attraction in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands over the last 10 years. The existing famine museum at Strokestown Park will be transformed into the new state-of-the-art National Famine Museum which will tell the complete story of the Great Famine for the first time. Picture shows Minister of State, Tourism and Sport , Brendan Griffin pictured with Roscommon County Council Leas Cathaoirleach, Liam Callaghan, Jim Callery, Strokestown Park, local representative, representatives of Failte Ireland, Irish Heritage Trust, Westward Scania following this morning’s announcement. Photo Brian Farrell

€5m National Famine Museum to be developed at Strokestown Park  DAN DOONER

The Famine Museum at Strokestown Park is set for a major revamp following Wednesday’s announcement that €3.9 million will be invested into the tourist site. The existing Famine Museum will be transformed into a new state-of-the-art National Famine Museum which will tell the complete story of the Great Famine for the first time. A new visitor centre and café will also be developed at Strokestown Park. The Fáilte Ireland investment of €3.9 million in the National Famine Museum comes under its Grants Scheme for Large Tourism Projects 2016-2020. The total project cost, including funding from the owners of Strokestown Park House, Westward Holdings Ltd. – in partnership with the Irish Heritage Trust – will be €5.1 million. The announcement was made by Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Brendan Griffin, during a visit to the site yesterday (Wednesday).

Pictured at Strokestown Park House on Wednesday were Jim Callery (Strokestown Park), Cllr. Liam Callaghan, Minister Brendan Griffin TD and Senator Maura Hopkins.

He said: “For the first time, Ireland will have a museum dedicated to telling the local, regional and national

story of the Great Famine and the immense and devastating impact it had on Ireland.

“This is not only an important museum for Irish citizens, it will also stand out to overseas visitors looking to im-

merse themselves in one of the most significant periods of our country’s history”. Fáilte Ireland’s Director of Product Development, Orla Carroll, said the investment would bring €13.2 million in additional revenue to the region, adding that it would be a “major draw to the area and will bring significant visitor numbers”. Irish Heritage Trust CEO Anne O’Donoghue also welcomed the news. “The Irish Heritage Trust is delighted with this opportunity to create a distinctive and engaging experience at the National Famine Museum, while offering a sustainable heritage visitor experience for future generations to enjoy. “We would like to thank Fáilte Ireland and our partners Westward Holdings Ltd., Jim Callery and Patrick Kenny for their significant investment and support which enables us to realise this world class heritage tourist attraction of national and international importance,” she said.

This can create up to 350 jobs over ﬁve years, claims Naughten Local political reaction Welcoming news of the major investment at Strokestown Park House, Independent TD Denis Naughten said the project would create up to 350 new jobs in the region over the next five years. “The announcement of a major upgrade of facilities at Strokestown Park House will see visitor numbers increase by 50,000 over a 5-year period which will act as a major driver of tourism

employment throughout County Roscommon,” he said. Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy has also welcomed the news, and says it will put Roscommon on the map as a top visitor attraction. Deputy Murphy added that the new state-ofthe-art National Famine Museum would become the “jewel in the crown” of tourist attractions in Roscommon and the west of Ireland. “This is a fantastic investment and a resounding vote of confidence in County Roscommon and

Strokestown Park which is surely set to become one of the top visitor attractions in the country. “The new-look museum will provide an exciting immersive experience and bring the story of the Great Famine to life by using cutting-edge technology including projections and soundscapes. A new visitor centre and café will also be developed at Strokestown Park,” he said. Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins described it as “the biggest investment Fáilte Ireland has

made to date in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands region and the biggest ever in a rural tourism project”. “This is the first time that Ireland will have a National Museum dedicated to telling the story of the famine on a local, regional and national standard. This new museum will become a key driver for overseas tourism for our region,” she said, before commending Jim Callery of Strokestown House for the work he has done in developing the site.

WEEKEND PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Pictured are members of Roscommon Harriers who are participating in the Dublin City Marathon this Sunday (l-r): Loretta Dowd, Glen Campbell, Monica Lyons, Adrian Smith, Brenda Hegarty, Jimmy Maloney, Helen Ely, John Fitzmaurice and Scott Bennett. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Roscommon Harriers training ahead of Sunday’s Dublin City Marathon were Glen Campbell, Jimmy Maloney and Adrian Smith, who have each run the Dublin Marathon seven times. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh.

Harriers on their marks th for 40 Dublin Marathon Focus on Team Archie: Page 9  DAN DOONER

Pictured at Roscommon Harriers training ahead of Sunday’s Dublin City Marathon was Amy McGranahan with her finisher’s medal for running the Chicago Marathon earlier this month. Pic: Michelle Hughes

This Sunday will see a record number taking part in the 40th running of the KBC Dublin City Marathon. There will be plenty of Roscommon representation among the expected 22,500 participants and members of local club, Roscommon Harriers, have also been busy preparing for the event. The club trains on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and caters for all levels. While experienced members such as Glen Campbell, Jimmy Maloney and Adrian Smith have completed seven of the previous thirty-nine events, this Sunday will see new faces among the Harriers’ contingent. Local auctioneer Loretta Dowd is one member who’s set to raise the stakes this Sunday as she bids to complete her very first marathon. Loretta, who hails from Kinvarra in Co. Galway, started by taking part in 5k events before attempting half marathons and says the support she has had from the Roscommon Harriers has been invaluable ahead

of her Dublin City Marathon debut. “Something came over me at the start of this year and I said I’d do it even though I swore I would never do a full marathon! “I found the training very tough because with work and everything there’s a lot of time and dedication involved but I have to say the support from the club is brilliant, without them there was no way I would have run. Someone might have a great run one day while someone else might be having a poor day but everyone knows how that feels so we all support each other. It’s lovely, it’s like you’re being cushioned in and brought along. “The support from the club is phenomenal and for me who swore I’d never run a half marathon first of all to never running a full marathon, well here I am and hopefully I’ll be ready for Sunday!” Loretta won’t be alone as she awaits starter’s orders this Sunday as Roscommon Harriers PRO Scott Bennett will also be appearing in his first marathon. Mary Tarpey from Ballyhaunis, on the other hand, is no stranger to the Dublin City Marathon. Mary is a member of An Garda Síochána, based in Roscommon town. Sunday will be her fourth race and she has

also completed a marathon in Derry. She explained how she came to sign up with Roscommon Harriers and the motivation behind running over 26 miles through Dublin’s streets. “I joined in March 2016 and ran my first marathon in October 2016. It was always something I admired when the marathon was on TV. I would also watch New York and Chicago and it was always something I wanted to do. “I found out there was a club here in town that actually trained people to run short distance and long distance I said ‘Right, I’ll join it!’ I met friends with similar interests and we trained together and we achieved our first marathon and from there we went for more! “It’s an escape from the house and a release from work and you’re meeting friends with common interests – it’s brilliant!” From international elite distance runners to weekend warriors, fundraisers and first-timers, athletes at the starting line in Dublin at 8.45 am this Sunday will have put in the hard miles over the previous weeks, months and years and there will be scenes of joy and relief when they make it across the finish line at Merrion Square later in the day.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

FOOD & DRINK To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Pictured with John Sheehy of Blas na hÉireann and Anne Browne, LEO Roscommon, is Derek Allen from Castlemine Farm, Roscommon who won the award for Best Farmers Market in Roscommon at Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards, which took place in Dingle recently. Pic: Don MacMonagle

Pictured are Richard Holly and Sarah Donnelly from Oliver Carty & VOA Foods, Roscommon who won Gold for their Dunnes Stores Simply Better Atlantic Sea Salt & Organic Herbs at Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards, which took place in Dingle recently. Also in the picture are Artie Clifford, and John Sheehy of Blas na hÉireann. Pic: Don MacMonagle

Pictured are Richard Holly and Sarah Donnelly, Oliver Carty Foods, Roscommon who won Bronze for their SuperValu Smoked Bacon Medallion at Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards, which took place in Dingle recently. Also pictured are John Sheehy of Blas na hÉireann and David Henderson, Henderson Food Machinery Company. Pic: Don MacMonagle

Pictured is Cathal Waldron from Waldron Meats, Roscommon who won Gold for their Waldron’s Dry Cured Back Rashers at Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards. Also pictured are John Sheehy of Blas na hÉireann and David Henderson, Henderson Food Machinery Company. Pic: Don MacMonagle

Pictured are Richard Holly and Sarah Donnelly, Oliver Carty & VOA Foods, Roscommon who won Gold for their Dunnes Stores’ Simply Better Atlantic Sea Salt & Organic Herbs at Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards in Dingle recently. Also pictured are Artie Clifford, Chairman and John Sheehy of Blas na hÉireann. Pic: Don MacMonagle

Five local producers win at Irish food awards

There were five Roscommon winners at the 12th annual Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards, which took place in Dingle recently. The bronze, silver and gold winners from Roscommon across a range of different categories were Castlemine Farm; Oliver Carty, Oliver Carty & VOA Foods Ltd., VOA Foods Ltd., and Waldron Meats. Oliver Carty took home the ‘Best in Roscommon’ award while Castlemine Farm won ‘Best in Farmer’s Market’ for Roscommon. Waldron Meats (based in Brideswell) won four awards at Blas 2019: Gold for their rashers, Gold for their baked ham, Silver for their Wiltshire ham fillet and Silver for their slipper of ham. The biggest blind tasting of produce in the country, the criteria on which produce is judged as well as the judging system itself, which was developed by Blas na hÉireann with the Food Science Department of UCC and the University of Copenhagen, is now recognised as an industry gold standard worldwide. All packaging and identifying features

are removed from products before being presented for judging, creating a level playing field for products from both large and small producers. Judges come from a range of food backgrounds from chefs to restaurateurs, academics, journalists, authors, food champions, caterers and enthusiastic home cooks. Speaking after the announcement Artie Clifford, Chairperson and founder of Blas na hÉireann said: “Blas na Éireann 2019 has been another exceptional year showcasing the talents and hard work of some of this country’s most innovative, forward-thinking and disciplined food entrepreneurs. This is our 12th year of the Blas na hÉireann awards, and our aim continues to be to assist Irish producers to tell their stories by marking them out as special, and worth exploring. Winning a Blas award has been shown to work for our previous winners in bringing them to the attention of foodlovers both at home and abroad and we are looking forward to yet another exceptional year for our worthy winners of Blas na hÉireann 2019”.

Pictured is Cathal Waldron from Waldron Meats, Roscommon who won Silver for their Waldron’s Wiltshire Ham Fillet at Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards in Dingle recently. Also pictured are John Sheehy of Blas na hÉireann and David Henderson, Henderson Food Machinery Company. Pic: Don MacMonagle

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

YOUR HEALTH & WELLBEING

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Brain Tumour Ireland calling on Roscommon to support #WearAHatDay Irish charity Brain Tumour Ireland (BTI) is calling on the people of Roscommon to don their favourite hat in support of its annual fundraising campaign #WearAHatDay on Friday, 25th of October. The annual campaign raises funds for the charity’s vital support and information services for people diagnosed with brain tumours and their families. A €4 donation can be made by simply texting BTI to 50300. Over 400 people are diagnosed with a brain tumour in Ireland each year with many contacting Brain Tumour Ireland for support when they receive their diagnosis. As well as the practical supports and information, Brain Tumour Ireland also raises awareness of brain tumours and their symptoms among the public and the medical profes-

sions and contributes funding to brain tumour research initiatives. This year, Brain Tumour Ireland has partnered with milliner Deb Fanning, who is donating a bespoke head piece as a prize for the ‘Best Selfie’ posted with the hashtag ‘#WearAHatDay’. Ciara Peters, Brain Tumour Ireland spokesperson, said: “We’re calling on the people of Roscommon to get involved on Friday, 25th October to support the work that Brain Tumour Ireland does. We’re very grateful to Deb Fanning for donating her beautiful piece for our ‘Best Selfie’ prize. We can’t wait to see the creative hats and photos shared on the 25th of October. If last year is anything to go by, the difficult part will be picking a winner!”

#WearAHatDay is taking place ahead of International Brain Tumour Awareness Week which runs from 26th October to 2nd November 2019. For further information, please visit: www. braintumourireland.com Pictured at the launch of Brain Tumour Ireland’s #WearAHatDay 2019 fundraising campaign in Deb Fanning’s Millinery Studio, Dublin are (clockwise from top): Ciara Peters, Brain Tumour Ireland spokesperson; Brain tumour survivor Josephine Dowling; Caroline Kane, diagnosed with a brain tumour aged 10; and Caroline’s mother, Bernie Kane. The charity is calling on Roscommon people to don their favourite hat in support of its annual campaign on Friday, 25th of October. A €4 donation can be made by simply texting BTI to 50300.

Roscommon University Hospital wins Gold Happy Heart Award The Catering Department staff at Roscommon University Hospital who were awarded the Irish Heart Foundation Gold Happy Heart Award for promoting healthy eating in the workplace, from left (front): Julie Kennedy, Chef 1; Kerrie Connell, Catering Assistant; Patricia Rogers, Catering Manager; Gillian Wilson, Catering Assistant; Caroline McCormack, Chef 2. Back row (l-r): Peter Sharkey, Catering Assistant; Edel McDonald, Chef 2; Winifred Walsh, Chef 2; Sinead Barry, Catering Assistant; Abin George, Catering Assistant and Deirdre Shannon, Catering Assistant.

The Irish Heart Foundation has awarded the Gold Happy Heart Award to Roscommon University Hospital in recognition of the ongoing work at the hospital to promote healthy eating in the workplace. Patricia Rogers, Catering Manager at the hospital said: “The aim of the awards programme is to assist workplace restaurants to adopt healthier cooking practices and provide healthier food choices. They highlight the important role that caterers play in nutritional health and in the prevention of heart disease, stroke and obesity.

“We were absolutely delighted when we received the Gold Happy Heart award. This award recognises the commitment and hard work of Roscommon University Hospital to ensure that the food and menus in the staff restaurant meet the Healthy Eating Guidelines set out by the Irish Heart Foundation and the Department of Health. “The award is not about calories or dieting but rather raising the awareness of good healthy food to promote long-term good health and a happier and healthier workforce”.

World Stroke Day event at Croí Centre In recognition of World Stroke Day on Tuesday, October 29th, Croí, the heart and stroke charity, is hosting a public talk and short film screening to help raise awareness of stroke and offer information to stroke survivors. This free event will start at 7 pm on October 29th in the Croí Centre in Newcastle, Galway, and will include a talk by Dr. Tom Walsh, Stroke Specialist, Galway University Hospital and a local Galway stroke survivor, followed by a special screening of the awardwinning documentary, A Tiny Spark.

In Ireland, approximately 10,000 people have a strokerelated event annually and an estimated 30,000 people are living in Ireland with disabilities as a result of a stroke. Croí’s World Stroke Day event aims to highlight the risk factors associated with stroke and to provide helpful information for those living with, and recovering from, a stroke. The Galway-based documentary, A Tiny Spark, produced by Swansong Films, examines the effect of stroke on people’s lives and looks at research into the blood clots that cause stroke. The documentary is about

ground-breaking research being conducted by neuroscientist Dr. Karen Doyle at CÚRAM, the SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices at NUI Galway and was made under the ‘Science on Screen’ partnership with Galway Film Centre. Refreshments will be served on arrival. The event is proudly supported by Ballinasloe-based company Surmodics, who are community partners to the Croí’s stroke programme. Everyone is welcome but places are limited, so early booking is advised. To reserve your free place, call Croí now on 091544310.

Pictured are Roscommon recipients of awards at the 2019 Irish Blood Transfusion Service Awards ceremony which was held in the McWilliam Hotel, Claremorris recently. Pictured are (back row, l-r): Martin Brady, Patrick Connolly, Carmel McNamara, IBTS Tuam Manager, Joe Phelan and Laurence Shine. Front row (l-r): John Boyle, Una Campton, Roisin Mooney, Nancy McCarthy and Lucian Brooks. Pic: H.G. Photography, Dunmore

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Things to do this Halloween ... Don’t get spooked by vandals this Halloween  MIRIAM KERINS

We here at your family-friendly newspaper know that Halloween is a firm favourite with our loyal readers. Who doesn’t love dressing up, eating goodies and hanging out with pals; sure isn’t it all part of the overall spook-fest vibe? However, as you’re decorating your home, sourcing scary costumes and stocking the kitchen with sweets, cakes, biccies and bars in readiness for those about to knock on your door, please be wary of the possibility that sinister people may also come-a-calling. Yes readers, there are sadly some elements of society living among us who’ve dedicated their entire lives to scaring the hell out of people by breaking into their homes. As these people use occasions like Halloween (or situations when you’re at your most vulnerable) to utilise your empty house to engage in their own brand of terror, wrecking everything you’ve worked hard to achieve and protect, we’d like to share some home security hints and tips. Here are our top 8 home security hacks; we hope you find them helpful.

: Burglars love to target homes

hidden by high hedges and trees; especially those obscuring windows and doors. Therefore, if you don’t want to give your intruder something to hide behind, now is the time to trim that foliage!

kiddies, bear in mind that legitimate trick-or-treaters should really be off the streets by 8 pm! Therefore, unless you are expecting a visit, anyone knocking later than this needs to be treated with caution; especially if they’re wearing a mask!

your garden, especially in the drivein, around sheds and barns, and on the patio. The second these lights go on, they alert you and anyone else in your community to the fact that a possible intruder may be lurking.

: Depending on your neighbour-

and a home owner’s nightmare. Think about it readers…he/she is able to canvass your neighbourhood dressed up in a Scream or a Freddie Krueger mask without arousing any suspicion whatsoever. Therefore, always make sure you know who’s hiding behind that disguise. If you’re suspicious, don’t open that door.

hood, and the age group of the

value of motion detector lights in

: Halloween is a burglar’s dream,

: When it comes to the kiddies, accompany them when trick-ortreating and never, ever, take shortcuts through alleyways, or dimly-lit parks. In addition, check every one of your kids’ treats, making sure they’re safe to eat.

: Now while we know Halloween

is the season of jokes and pranks, if you’ve got teenagers who’re plan-

Spooky Storytelling for children at Athlone Castle! Athlone Castle has announced that its popular annual Halloween ‘Spooky Storytelling’ event will take place on Saturday, October 26th. Children and adults are invited to join storyteller and singer Helena Byrne for this special Halloween event at Athlone Castle in the unique atmosphere of a creepy castle, steeped in history. These interactive storytelling sessions will transport children’s imaginations into the magical festival of Samhain, with

: You cannot underestimate the

spooky tales of ghosts, ghouls and fairies. Admission to the event for children aged 3 to 11 years is €9, with €5 for accompanying adults. Family tickets are €25 (2 adults with 2 children) and €40 (2 adults with 4 children). Places are limited, therefore booking in advance is essential to avoid disappointment. Places for the storytelling sessions can be booked online at www.athlonecastle.ie or for further information telephone 090-6442130.

ning a bit of mischief, (and we were all teens at one stage), do make sure they behave themselves. It is understandable that kids/teens will want to have a good time, but emphasise to them that damaging people’s property and cars or frightening vulnerable individuals is unacceptable.

: I’m still gobsmacked at the amount of people who leave spare keys hidden under a rock or on a shelf in their shed! This is something I would never do, yet it’s still common practice in many rural villages. A burglar can easily walk away with your key, have one cut for themselves, replace it and return again at a later date (or at Halloween when you’re out), and take everything you hold dear!

: If you don’t already have one,

perhaps now is the time to think about getting a house alarm. However, in order for them to be effective, you need to remember to arm them, even when you’re sitting indoors watching the telly.

Ballaghaderreen to host ‘Thriller Dance 2019!’ The Square in Ballaghaderreen will play host to Thriller Dance 2019 from 12 to 2 pm on Thursday, October 31st, as part of Halloween celebrations in the town. Thriller Dance is a family event with music, drumming, face-painting, kids’ craft workshop, traditional fun and games and of course the Thriller Dance itself. The library at Dillon House will also host a photographic exhibition featuring the creative works of residents from the EROC Centre, Ballaghaderreen. All are welcome. Organisers of the event invite you to dust off your best zombie gear and boogie on down town to The Square in Ballaghaderreen for Thriller Dance

2019. The event is part of the ‘Build a Festival’ initiative which is about bringing people together to discover and nurture a multitude of talents, while creating fun, engaging events and opportunities for the whole community. In June, a project called ‘Build a Festival’ was initiated by Mary Duignan with Brothers of Charity Services Ireland, Roscommon. One of the overall aims of the initiative is to challenge assumptions about people with disabilities and encourage active citizenship. St. Nathy’s Transition Year group have been actively involved from the beginning with Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed and Tidy Towns also on board. Local business Computers4U and Ros

FM will also be involved on the day, while VTOS students from Castlerea and various individuals from the local and wider community have generously offered their support. The organisers are also grateful for the generous support of local businesses. Organisers are working in conjunction with Roscommon LEADER Partnership, SICAP (Social Inclusion Activation Programme), Family Resource Centre, Empowering Refugee Programme and Ability Programme to make this an intercultural event for all. The staff of the Brothers of Charity Services must also be given great recognition for their efforts in helping the project succeed.

For a fun, SPOOKY, EERIE Halloween day out – visit Glendeer Pet Farm! Come along to a Spooktastic Halloween at Glendeer Pet Farm…if you dare!!! Looking for somewhere to bring the kids over the mid-term break? This is the perfect day out for kids, both big and small!! With ghosts, ghouls, scarecrows and witches aplenty, you will be guaranteed a Spooktastic time! Cast spells with Willow the Witch, toast marshmallows over an open fire and enter the eerie maze…but be warned, it’s at your own risk. Follow Pumpkin Passage through the Forbidden Forest to see where it takes you and be scared by lots more ghosts and ghouls this Halloween! Glendeer Pet Farm, Drum, Athlone (take exit 13 off M6 and follow signs for Drum) is suit-

able in any weather with plenty of facilities under cover. But it’s not all about scares during this Halloween experience as you will also get to interact with the friendly animals on the farm. Children can feed, pet and even hold some of the animals which include puppies, rabbits, deers, pot belly pigs, llamas, alpaches, emus, wallabies, goats, donkeys, sheep, the cheeky monkeys, meerkats and much more! Not only will you see all the Halloween scenes but children can race on the double obstacle course and lose themselves in our timber maze along with the slides, swings, seesaws and very popular glider swing in the large outdoor playground. They can also avail of the

indoor adventure area with lots of slides and bridges, which makes Glendeer Pet Farm a perfect location, even on those wet days. While the big ones are burning off some energy, the little ones will be well entertained in the soft play barn and the all-weather sand pit...just beware of the ghosts and ghouls in the Forbidden Forest on your way there! Adults can enjoy freshly ground coffee/tea and home-made treats are available in the coffee shop. Groups and birthday parties catered for by appointment. Special rate for 20 or more children. We are open from Saturday, the 26th of October until Sunday, the 3rd of November for Halloween. From Monday to Saturday,

Opening the 26th October until the 3rd November

we open from 11 am-5 pm and from 12 pm-5 pm on Sundays. Admission is €9 for adults & €9 for children,

under 18 months are admitted free. For more information contact us on 090-6437147 or visit www.glendeerpetfarm.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

CREGGS HARVEST FESTIVAL 2019 Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

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Flashback to 2018! Pictured at last year’s Creggs Harvest Festival were ‘Presidential Candidates’ Mrs Brown (Teresa Brown), Ger Yung Un (Gerry Keegan), Shameless D Higgins (Seamus Ward). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The 39th annual Creggs Harvest Festival will take place in the border village this Bank Holiday weekend – with plenty of great events to look forward to! This year’s event gets underway on Friday evening with a quiz for local schoolchildren at 6.30 pm in Creggs NS. The quiz is always a fun event and a great way to bring young people together to kick-start the festival. The annual Personality of the Year will be announced in the CS Parnell Heritage Centre at 8.30 pm and this will be followed by the launch of ‘On the Banks of Lough Ouver’, a book of poetry by local poet Vinny Keaveney. The launch will be performed by Michael Kitt, former TD and Leas Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann. The volume of poetry will be on sale locally priced at €10, with all proceeds going to Galway Hospice. Friday night’s poetry launch will be followed by a traditional music session by the fireside in Creggs Heritage Centre. This will feature a number of musicians including Andrew Newland, Rosisin Lardner, Joe Kearns, Paudie Mulhare, Peter Nester, Malachy Donnelly, Michael Coleman, Alan Leyland and Paddy Lohan. It promises to be a great night of music, song and story-telling. Admission is free and BYOB. All welcome. On Saturday, Professor Gerry Beggan’s recent talk in Creggs where he explored possible links between Norman raids on Abbeygrey and the Middle Welsh legends of the Mabinogi has increased interest in the ancient monastic site and on Saturday morning, Galway Community Archaeologist Christy Cunniffe will lead a historical walk

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On Saturday night, the local community will come together for a tea party in Creggs NS and recall the great community effort and spirit that went into the Pride of Place adjudication. Proceeds from the tea party will go towards Creggs Harvest Festival. The Tea Party will also feature the Crexit Debate – should Creggs remain or leave or could the EU possibly survive without

the village? Expect a cast of characters to take part in a House of Commons style Debate followed by voting on the remain or leave issue. Votes will be on sale for €2 a pop and any funds raised from this event will go towards the hosting of the 40th anniversary Creggs Harvest Festival in 2020. The Tea Party and Crexit Debate will be followed by music with Joachim Dunne.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

CREGGS HARVEST FESTIVAL 2019

Festival weekend! from Creggs Village to Abbeygrey, discussing various points of interest along the way. Sturdy outdoor footwear is advised for this walk. Sunday is Family Fun Day with plenty of Halloween fun and games for the entire family to enjoy! Monday is Fair Day in Creggs, with horses and donkeys on the street. There will be prizes for children for the best turned out horses and donkeys and locals with horses and donkeys are asked to come and take part in the traditional Fair Day atmosphere. Judging for the prizes will take place at 2 pm. Also at 2 pm, Creggs GAA presents a Spectacular Sheep Sweepstake Race at the Creggs GAA Pitch, which promises to be a fun-filled event. The referendum count for Crexit will take place at 4.45 pm on Monday with referendum results eagerly awaited. Either the Remain or Leave side will be celebrating as music gets underway in O’Roarke’s at 5 pm with The Full Shilling. The opening of Dolan’s Pub at the top of the village is a very welcome addition to life in Creggs and no doubt the newly-opened pub will be a hive of activity throughout the weekend. Members of the organising committee this week paid tribute to the many local people whose work makes the annual festival possible and also extended thanks to Galway County Council, who also support the event. So get yourself along to Creggs Harvest Festival this weekend for what promises to be an eventful and funfilled weekend for all the family!

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JG Pictured at the 2017 Creggs Harvest Festival were Aaron, Bertie, Seán, Ella and Conor Keane. Picture: Andrew Fox

Dolan’s pub to open on Saturday A new era in Creggs will get underway on Saturday afternoon with the opening of Dolan’s pub. The pub doors will open at noon on Saturday and it promises to be a popular fo-

25th October - 28th October

cal point during the festival. The pub, formerly Featherstone’s and Gannon’s, will be run by the Dolan family, who have been running Dalton’s pub in nearby Fuerty since

May of this year. Joe Dolan has long experience in the pub trade. He plans to open during the day in coming weeks, and serve tea, coffee, soup and sandwiches.

Flashback to 2018! Pictured at last year’s Creggs Harvest Festival were John Hanley and James Coffey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

CREGGS HARVEST FESTIVAL 2019 Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

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Halloween fun this Sunday in Creggs! Sunday is Family Fun Day in Creggs. Fun for the children gets underway at 1 pm with a Children’s Tractor Run, assembling at Dolan’s Car Park and travelling down the village into the Wildlife Park. There children will be entertained with Halloween fun and games, face-painting, as well as bouncy castles and much more. There will be prizes for the best children’s fancy dress. A Craft Fair will take place at Creggs NS from 1 pm to 4 pm featuring over 25 craft stalls including: Michelle Lambert from Flutterby Crafts; HazelRocks from Leitrim; Mia from Catch the Light in Longford; Amy from Bramblewick House in Longford; Meg’s Designs from Glinsk; Karen Bowden from Mount Mary and Izzy and Rebecca with brooches and patchwork.

Visitors should also look out for Wood Gecko, Kittie’s Knitties, Susan the Crochet Pixie, while Adrian Gill from Gill’s Bakery will also be attendance. Local parents will also run a bake sale in aid of Creggs NS so please go along and support. Dog lovers will flock to Creggs on Sunday for the annual Dog Show which takes place from 12 pm to 1 pm. There are 21 classes in total as well as prizes for Champion and Reserve Champion and it promises to be a fun event which will include a new obstacle course for children and dogs. Sunday afternoon will also feature a clay pigeon shoot organised by Creggs Gun Club, where there will be lots of opportunities for visitors to see at first-hand what is involved

in a shoot. There will be music in Dolan’s on Sunday evening from 8 pm with Sean Brennan and later that night, there will be a dance in aid of Creggs Tidy Towns in O’Roarke’s, with music by Billy Garvin. The ‘Crexit Debate’ will continue for a time on Sunday night before the Creggs Parliament is prorogued at midnight when the Usher of the Black Rod will lead the parliamentarians out of parliament for the final time. Don’t forget that the local lotto draw will also be held on Sunday night. The local lotto supports a number of local organisations and your continued support is much appreciated. To celebrate the annual Harvest Festival there will be a number of extra lucky dip prizes available this weekend!

Flashback to 2018! Pictured at last year’s Creggs Harvest Festival were Isabelle and Emma Boyle. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Flashback to 2018! Pictured at last year’s Creggs Harvest Festival were Althea Whyte and Eimear O’Sullivan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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OPENING Saturday, 26th October from lunchtime Sunday, 27th October: Live music with

(Above) Pictured at the 2017 Creggs Harvest Festival were Laura Curley, Robyn Farrell and Eve Smyth. Picture: Andrew Fox

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(Left) Pictured at the 2017 Creggs Harvest Festival were Alita Ni Niallain and Lorraine Conlon. Picture: Andrew Fox

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NEW Antique Shop! Lots to celebrate (Right) Pictured at the 2017 Creggs Harvest Festival were Conor and Keelan Duke. Picture: Andrew Fox

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this year!

Creggs has lots to celebrate this year… the reopening of the second pub in the village, Dolan’s, the opening of a new antique shop in recent weeks, the imminent reopening of the village takeaway and the upcoming opening of major new development at Creggs RFC. The good vibes in the village began earlier this year when Creggs was nomi-

nated for the Pride of Place Awards, which brought the entire community together for a number of weeks in the run-up to the adjudication process. Every aspect of the village received a facelift in the weeks that followed and the coming together of every group and association in the village created great energy and enthusiasm as young and old put their shoulders to the wheel!

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

Cllr. Peter er Keaveney Bushtown, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

087 2533098 098 Email: pkeaveney@cllr.galwaycoco.ie

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

WeekendPeople BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: P. & S. Cooney, 2nd: V. & P. Finneran, Gross: J. Donnellan & J. Halliday. East/West – 1st: L. Curley & J. McGrath, 2nd: A. Kilduff & J. Adamson, Gross: T. Murphy & T. Smyth. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: M. & P. Mellett, 2nd: T. Murphy & J. Halliday, Gross: K. Dowd & C. McGrath. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: K. Corcoran & K. Gately, 2nd: M. Egan & M. Moran, Gross: M. Law & M. Pullinger. East/West – 1st: B. Maher & M. Madden, 2nd: M. Hickey & G. Spillane, Gross: A. Shine & M. Naughton. Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1st: B. Weir & P. Pierse, 2nd: K. Corcoran & A. Shine, Gross: M. Byrne & P. Whyte. East/West – 1st: G. Bannon & M. Hickey, 2nd: G. Spillane & J. Devaney, Gross: V. & P. Finneran. Section B North/South – 1st: A. Kilduff & E. Mulry, 2nd: A. Carney & M. Dolan, Gross: S. Hickey & C. Neilan. East/West – 1st: F. Neilan & K. Blighe, 2nd: S. Farrell & M. Law, Gross: K. Coyle & M. Dolan. Section C – 1st: A. Kilcline & J. O’Beirne, 2nd: F. Grady & P. Grady, 3rd: K. Moran & J. Moran. Kilbride Bridge Club North/South – 1st: T. & B. Moran, 2nd: M. Hussey & L. Hussey, 3rd: J. Hunt & A. Gaffney. East/West – 1st: E. Dowling & M. Farrell, 2nd: F. Keane & B. Gillooly, 3rd: M. Mullen & M. Fallon.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Jesus draws a blunt picture in today’s Gospel. The Pharisee’s prayer is almost a parody of the thanksgiving psalms (see for example Psalms 30, 118). Instead of praising God for His mighty works, the Pharisee congratulates himself for his own deeds, which he presents to God in some detail. The tax collector stands at a distance, too ashamed even to raise his eyes to God (see Ezra 9:6). He prays with a humble and contrite heart (see Psalm 51:19). He knows that before God no one is righteous, no one has cause to boast (see Roman 3:10; 4:2). We see in the Liturgy today one of Scripture’s abiding themes – that God “knows no favorites,” as today’s First Reading tells us (see 2 Chronicles 19:7; Acts 10:34–35; Romans 2:11). God cannot be bribed (see Deuteronomy 10:17). We cannot curry favor with Him or impress Him – even with our good deeds or our faithful observance of religious duties such as tithing and fasting. If we try to exalt ourselves before the Lord, as the Pharisee does, we will be brought low (see Luke 1:52). This should be a warning to us – not to take pride in our piety, not to slip into the self-righteousness of thinking that we’re better than others, that we’re “not like the rest of sinful humanity.” If we clothe ourselves with humility (see 1 Peter 5:5–6) – recognise that all of us are sinners in need of His mercy – we will be exalted (see Proverbs 29:33). The prayer of the lowly, the humble, pierces the clouds. Paul testifies to this in today’s Epistle, as he thanks the Lord for giving him strength during his imprisonment. Paul tells us what the Psalmist sings today – that the Lord redeems the lives of His humble servants. We too must serve Him willingly. And He will hear us in our distress, deliver us from evil, and bring us safely to His heavenly kingdom. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S

unique take on life ...

Home thoughts from abroad … It’s Monday afternoon, warm but slightly cloudy, and I have just come back from the pool a few yards down the road from where we are spending a few days in the October sunshine in the Spanish seaside village of Cabo Roig. We have been here since Thursday last, and it is now almost time to be heading back to Creggs, where this weekend the 39th Harvest Festival is taking place. The festival happens in a village where, as I mentioned briefly last week, huge changes are taking place, changes that are greatly welcomed by everyone in the village and surrounding areas. Firstly, a few weeks ago one of the newer residents in Creggs itself, Andy Clancy, opened an antique furniture shop in the beautifully restored premises that was Michael Kilby’s. He has a great collection of interesting old pieces on display (and of course for sale), and he tells me that business is already booming. As someone who has been involved in the furniture and antique business for many years now, I can tell you that a visit to Andy’s would be well worth your while. He is an expert in the antique field. If you want a bargain, tell him I sent you. It probably won’t get you any reduction, but it’s worth a try! Secondly, and a massive boost for all of us who like a quiet pint now and again, the big news is that Gannon’s pub, which was a favourite with us all for too short a time, is reopening this Wednesday evening, under the management of the Dolan brothers, who have already been very successful in their recent acquisition of Dalton’s pub in Fuerty. There is no doubt that the

Dolans are committed, innovative publicans, and are sure to be a great addition to the village of Creggs. Thirdly, I am reliably informed that the local chipper/takeaway, which has been closed for some months now, is also set to reopen under new management, details of which I have not yet got. I wish its new proprietors, and Andy and the Dolan brothers, the very best in their new ventures. I encourage you all to support them as best as you can. When a village the size of Creggs gets three new businesses almost simultaneously, it has to be a great day. I have mentioned rural deprivation and rural decline several times in this column down through the years. A development like this proves that rural Ireland is fighting

back. As of now, Creggs is very much to the forefront. Here’s wishing the best to all the new ventures. Hopefully it won’t be long before I sample your wares. Back to the Harvest Festival, and I’m told there are great plans in place to celebrate its 40th birthday, and details will be available in plenty of time for next year’s offering, but for now, all roads leave to Creggs this weekend where there are a multitude of activities laid on for your entertainment, and where you can have the best of fun and craic. I don’t think the chipper will be open (hope I’m wrong), but you will definitely be able to buy a top of the range Chesterfield couch or some other period piece in Andy’s, and, to

And finally…

I’m grateful for the great days this Irish team gave us Last Saturday morning, along with loads of optimistic Irish supporters, we were in O’Riordan’s Irish bar in Cabo Roig in time for breakfast, to watch Ireland versus the All Blacks. In truth, almost before the rashers and sausages were cool enough to eat, we were already on our way out of the World Cup. The 46-14 defeat was a sobering experience, but scarcely a surprise. Thankfully, I haven’t had to read any of the Irish sportswriters, but knowing their habit of turning on their own, I am glad to be away for the few days. For me, as a rugby supporter, I thank this team for the great days they have given us over the last few years. A good few of them have probably come to the end of the road as international play-

ers, but as a group they did us proud, punched way above their weight, and gave us memories to cherish for as long as we live. As for Joe Schmidt, I have heard that some of our prominent rugby writers on national papers have had a go at him. As always, it’s easy to kick a man when he’s down. For me, he delivered some of the best rugby occasions ever, both with Leinster and Ireland, and I believe as a small little country we owe him a massive debt. Of course he would have wished to go out on a better note, he may even have been guilty of some poor selection in his World Cup panel, but all things considered he did an amazing job, and all I can do is thank Joe for the great days and wish him well in the future.

celebrate your great purchase, slip around the corner and have a pint in Dolan’s. Our old reliable, Mikeen’s, has music a few times over the weekend as well, and all the usual attractions like the dog show and the craft fair, as well as other new events, are taking place. All you have to do is get on your bike and get to Creggs any time over the Bank Holiday weekend, and if I run into you and you’re buying, I’ll have a pint of the black stuff. Back to Spain, and at this stage we nearly know as many people there as at home, but this time we met new people from around our own area – like Paul and Cathriona – while we also ran into an old friend, Liz, as we socialised in O’Riordan’s Irish bar.

Finally for this week, as we prepare to head off to the airport for the flight back to the Emerald Isle, I have to say that there is no doubt that the sunshine and excellent value for money still makes Spain a wonderful holiday destination. However, the good – or maybe bad – news is that today could be an ‘Irish day’…the rain is lashing down, it’s pretty cold, there’s no-one to be seen, and even the hundreds of cats that are usually to be seen everywhere seem to have gone into hiding. It will be good to be home.

Joe Schmidt

Till next week, Bye for now!

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

South Roscommon Singers Festival

Ned’s BAR Best wishes to South Roscommon Singers Festival from

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

25th to 27th October

Great variety promised at South The South Roscommon Singers Festival returns this Bank Holiday weekend with a variety

of events taking place at venues from Roscommon town to Knockcroghery. The festival kicks off at

2 pm this Friday (25th) with a ‘Song Saunter’ at the Old Gaol in The Square in Roscommon

town. Following this at 3 pm, Soapbox and Songs will take place at Harrison Court, featuring

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Best wishes to South Roscommon Singers Festival from John, Eithne and family

Murray’s Bar Knockcroghery Co. Roscommon

Best wishes to South Roscommon Singers Festival

Cllr. Tony Ward

Nora and family Independed Member of Roscommon County Council Contact Tony on (090) 64 88294 or (087) 9165226 Email: tonywardmcc@eircom.net

Pictured at the launch of the South Roscommon Singers Festival at Mai’s Kitchen, Knockcroghery recently were Anne Rigney, Declan Coyne and Eithne Merriman. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The Strawberry Thieves and Ukephoric before The Gathering Session at JJ Harlow’s from 5 pm. The Official Welcome to this year’s South Roscommon Singers Festival will take place at 8 pm in Murray’s Bar, Knockcroghery on Friday evening. This will be followed by a Recital featuring Bows of London and headline act, Stick in the Wheel. Admission is €5. Stick in the Wheel are Nicola Kearey and Ian Carter who bring a contemporary approach to folk music. Later on Friday evening there will be a singing session in Murray’s and music in Ned’s Bar, also in Knockcroghery. Saturday’s events will begin with a Song Talk in Murray’s, Knockcroghery featuring ‘Townie’ by Macdara Yeates. There will be another Recital at Murray’s from 12 noon featuring ‘Songs of Old Appalachia’, and yet another ‘Song Talk’ at

Highlights of this year’s festival… Among the many highlights of this year’s South Roscommon Singers Festival, is a Soapbox and Songs event at the Harrison Court in Roscommon town, at 3 pm this Friday (25th), on the theme of climate change/global warming. Headlining this event will be The Strawberry Thieves, a socialist choir from London,

and Ukephoric, the Roscommon Ukulele Collective, with a host of guest speakers, balladeers and performance artists. Saturday’s highlight is the ‘I’ll Fly Away’ Church Concert at St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery, from 8 pm sharp, featuring Gospel songs, Spirituals and songs of inspiration.

The headline acts include Landless, an allgirl, part harmony group; London duo Nicola Kearey and Ian Carter AKA Stick in the Wheel and West Virginia girl Alice Wylde and her husband David with Appalachian Church Songs and much more. On Sunday, the highlight of the afternoon will be a music, song and dance ‘Floor Show’ in

Paddy Finn’s in Kilteevan. This will also include the presentation of the Roscommon People sponsored ‘Annie McNulty Award’ to An Góilín Traditional Singers Club from Dublin. Other events to look out for over the weekend are some very interesting song talks, recitals and singing sessions galore at Murray’s and Ned’s Bars in Knockcroghery.

South Roscommon Singers Festival 2019 presents

‘I’ll Fly Away’ Church Concert In St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery On Saturday, 26th October Starting at 8.00pm sharp Featuring: ● LANDLESS ● Stick in the Wheel ● Alice & David Wylde ● Annie Power, An Góilín Singers ● Ukephoric, The Nightingales & more *************** Adm: Adults €10, Students €5 Children free Pictured at the launch of the South Roscommon Singers Festival at Mai’s Kitchen, Knockcroghery recently were Emma Jane Mullally and Cathryn Hannon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

South Roscommon Singers Festival

25th to 27th October

Roscommon Singers Festival Ned’s Bar, Knockcroghery entitled ‘An Góilín – No Standard Set?’ with Antaine Ó Faracháin. Ned’s will also host a singing session at 3 pm, hosted by An Góilín Singers’ Club from Dublin. St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery will play host to the ‘I’ll Fly Away’ Church Concert from 8 pm, featuring Gospel, Spirituals and Songs of Inspiration. Murray’s will be the venue for the Saturday Night Session from 10 pm on Saturday night while ‘Festival Extra’ comes live from Ned’s Bar with music from Ukephoric. Sunday sees the curtain coming down on yet another wonderful South Roscommon Singers Festival with music throughout the day and the presentation of the Annie McNulty Award. Murray’s in Knockcroghery will host ‘Chants for Socialists’ by The Strawberry Thieves from 12 pm before it’s off down the N61 for ‘By The Groves of Kilteevan’ which will include a visit

to the old Burke homestead, birthplace of Annie McNulty. Following this, The Roscommon People sponsored Annie McNulty Award will be presented to Guests of Honour, An Góilin Singers’ Club from Dublin at Paddy Finn’s Bar in Kilteevan. At 7 pm on Sunday evening, Murray’s Bar, Knockcroghery will be the venue for an intimate concert featuring all-girl group Landless (Ruth Clinton from Dublin, Meabh Meir from Belfast, Sinead Lynch from Co. Cavan and Londoner, Lily Power) and special guest Annie Power. Admission is €5 for what promises to be a great evening of entertainment. The Closing Session of the 2019 South Roscommon Singers Festival will bring this year’s event to a close at 9 pm in Murray’s and will include comic songs and storytelling. All singers, storytellers, liars and listeners will be given a very warm welcome to Knockcroghery this October Bank Holiday weekend.

(Right) Pictured at the launch of the South Roscommon Singers Festival at Mai’s Kitchen, Knockcroghery recently were Pat and Vincent Pierse. Pic Michelle Hughes Walsh

(Below) Pictured at the launch of the South Roscommon Singers Festival at Mai’s Kitchen, Knockcroghery recently were John Murray, Jack McKervey and Tony McDermott. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Don’t miss Soapbox on Climate Change/ Global Warming… It’s this Friday at 3 pm! A highlight of the 2019 South Roscommon Singers Festival will be one of the first events of the weekend when guests gather at Harrison Court, Market Square, Roscommon for ‘Soapbox & Songs’ this Friday at 3 pm. Under debate on the Soapbox will be Climate Change/Global Warming…and the political and social response, or lack of, to same. Join the Strawberry Thieves & Ukephoric…with guest speakers, environmentalists, campaigners, politicians, performance artists, poets & balladeers for this unique event. This Climate Change/Global Warming Soapbox is supported by the Roscommon People newspaper. Earlier (2 pm) ‘Song Saunter’ at the Old Gaol will afford those who attend an opportunity to hear the legend of Lady Betty, plus some ballads of famous prisoners & hangings from the histories of various peoples and societies. After ‘Soapbox & Songs’, guests are invited to JJ Harlow’s, The Square, Roscommon (approx. 5 pm) for ‘The Gathering Session’. The Official Welcome/Opening will take place later on Friday (approx. 8 pm) in Murray’s Bar, Knockcroghery. Best wishes to South Roscommon Singers Festival from

BAR & VENUE * MEETINGS * RESTAURANT * ROOMS

Great Food All Day, Every Day Flashback to 2018 in Paddy Finn’s, Kilteevan where Rhiannon Giddens received the Annie McNulty Award, sponsored by the Roscommon People. Left to right: Ciara Healy, Rhiannon Giddens, Paul Healy, Editor of Roscommon People.

The Roscommon People Annie McNulty Award goes to… Guests of Honour at this year’s South Roscommon Singers Festival and 2019 recipients of the Roscommon People sponsored Annie McNulty Award are An Goílín Traditional Singers’ Club, Dublin. An Goílín Traditional Singers’ Club has been promoting and facilitating traditional song and singing for the last 40 years, having been founded by Tim Dennehy and his brother-in-law Donal de Barra. ‘An Góilín’ is a play on words and means an outlet into something big as in Goleen in west Cork, a stream going into the ocean. It’s also a phrase in

Connemara Irish, to make music – ‘ag Ceoilín’. An Góilín meets regularly every Friday night (with some exceptions) and breaks for the summer. The current schedule can be found at http:// www.goilin.com/calendaron. South Roscommon Singers Festival is delighted to honour An Goílín with the Annie McNulty Award 2019, as it inspired us to form our own Singers Circle nearly 30 years ago. The Annie McNulty Award will be accepted, on behalf of An Goílín, by Gerry O’Reilly, a true legend of the traditional singing landscape for many years.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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Vinegar Bill return to PJ’s of Castlecoote! PJ’s of Castlecoote is delighted to welcome the return of Vinegar Bill to the stage following an extended break from performing. The Knockcroghery group returns this Sunday evening (27th) for what promises to be another wonderful night of music in the welcoming surrounds of this popular and cosy live music venue. Vinegar Bill will take the stage this Bank Holiday Sunday at 9.30 pm, playing a wonderful mix of folk music and ballads. All are welcome to come along and join us for what is guaranteed to be a terrific evening. The music at PJ’s doesn’t stop this Sunday either as our renowned music sessions continue each Tuesday night. All welcome.

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CASTLECOOTE, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: (090) 66 63066

Sunday 27th October:

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Liveline Dalton’s Pub Fuerty, Co. Roscommon Sunday, 27th October: LIVE MUSIC WITH

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See Aidan’s acclaimed ‘Tom Crean – Antarctic Explorer’ in Roscommon Arts Centre Aidan Dooley’s acclaimed show ‘Tom Crean – Antarctic Explorer’ is proving to be hugely popular with audiences. It will be staged in Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday, November 2nd next. Crean is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s unsung heroes and Aidan Dooley brings him to life in this dramatic and humorous performance,

which has been performed worldwide and won numerous awards. Limited tickets are still available for this show on Saturday, November 2nd. When paired with Blue Raincoat Theatre Company’s ‘Shackleton’ on Saturday, 9th of November, you can see both shows for just €30. Booking on 0906625824.

Aidan Dooley as Antarctic explorer Tom Crean… appearing at Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday, November 2nd.

‘I Do Not Like Thee, Dr Fell’ at Kilbride Community Centre Cill Dara Drama Group will perform ‘I Do Not Like Thee, Dr. Fell’ in Kilbride Community Centre, Fourmilehouse this Saturday, October the 26th at 8 pm. This comedy focuses on six people who are locked in a room for therapy that promises to examine their own lives. However, all their secrets are exposed in

this entertaining and light-hearted show. Bernard Farrell’s comedy provides many twists and turns. Cáit Cusack is the director of the show. Please come along to Kilbride Community Centre where the play will start at 8 pm. Proceeds towards the community centre. Admission on the night is €10.

Out, not down…

Telephone: 090 6626225 Friday 25th October @ 3pm South Roscommon Singers Festival 2019 presents

Soapbox & Songs Harrison Court, Roscommon (Between J.J. Harlow’s & Jackson’s) Combining and celebrating the gret traditions of Free Speech, Political Oratory, Folk Song, Satire, Drama, Poetry, Mime & Artistry.

Saturday 26th October @ 10pm

Rossies on tour! Pictured in Tokyo ahead of the Rugby World Cup Quarter-Final between Ireland and New Zealand last Saturday were Mark Rowe (Oran), Aidan Murray (Fourmilehouse), and Brian Murray (Roscommon town).

Castle Street

Elphin native Seamus Shannon on stage in Sligo Roscommon musician Seamus Shannon will perform in the Coleman Music Centre in Gurteen, Co. Sligo on Saturday, the 2nd of November alongside Clare’s PJ Murrihy. Seamus is a world-renowned accordion player. Seamus and PJ will bring their own specialised Irish traditional and country songs to the Coleman Music Centre.

JJ Harlow’s

Elphin native Seamus spent several years playing with Joe Dolan’s showband as a trombone player and accordionist. The accordion playing of Seamus Shannon is featured on many recordings including by Christy Moore, Charlie McGettigan and Foster & Allen. Seamus hosts a popular radio programme called ‘Shannon’s Corner’ on

Shannonside Northern Sound where he plays a mix of traditional, folk, country and Irish music. The concert takes place on Saturday, the 2nd of November at 8.30 pm in the Coleman Music Centre. As this was a sell-out show last year, early booking is advisable. Phone 071-9182599 or visit www.colemanirishmusic. com for more information.

Sunday 27th October @ 10pm

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night last were Debbie Porter, who volunteered to have her hair shaved in aid of the Irish Cancer Society, and Jackie Langan (hairdresser). Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Michael and Mary Hayes.

Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Kieran and Lorraine O’Loughlin.

Paddy Finn’s Kilteevan

Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Marie and Andrew Sugrue.

Pics: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Linda Kelly, Mary Murray and Bridget Banham.

Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Marq and Marie Lalwani.

Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Caroline Sexton, Kathleen, David and Trisha Fox and Bridie Egan.

Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Sean and Debbie Porter, Anthony McGrath, Angela Sinnott and Jim McGrath.

Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Mark Bagnell, Alice Koraca, Mary Brady and Liam Bagnell.

Pictured in Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan) on Saturday night were Eamon and Teresa O’Connor, Sharon McGeeney, Michelle O’Connor and Mairead Whyte.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’ Pictured are Carmel Gavin of The Curtain Centre, Roscommon (third from left) and Roscommon LEO staff.

Roscommon marks Women’s Enterprise Day The largest ever programme of events for National Women’s Enterprise Day took place across the country on Thursday, October 17th. The theme for the event, which is an annual initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), including LEO Roscommon, was ‘Making It Happen’ – with the aim of inspiring more women in Ireland to start and grow their own business. The networking event for entrepreneurs in the western region took place in the Meyrick Hotel, Galway and was organised in partnership with Local Enterprise Offices of Roscommon, Galway and Mayo. 120 local entrepreneurs and businesswomen participated and speakers included Roscommon businesswoman, Carmel Gavin, The Curtain Centre, Roscommon town; Tympany Medical’s cofounder Elizabeth McGloughlin, represented Co. Galway, and representing Co. Mayo was Tracy Sweeney, Creative Director at Nigel O’Reilly Goldsmiths, Castlebar. The keynote speaker was award-winning Twitter expert, social media strat-

egist, speaker, author and founder of the Women’s Inspire Network, Sam Kelly, who said: “There’s a lot of noise out there. It’s all about standing out from the rest”. Having built a loyal following of over 43,000 people by engaging and interacting on Twitter as her own campaign manager, Sam has a deep knowledge and understanding of how to harness the power of social media and make it happen for your business. Sam added: “I started from scratch and went from kitchen table business to digital influencer, all thanks to the magic of Twitter”. National Women’s Enterprise Day was officially opened by Pat Breen, Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, who attended the Dublin event in Fingal. Louise Ward, Head of Local Enterprise Office Roscommon, said: “National Women’s Enterprise Day is an important milestone in the Local Enterprise Office calendar. It gives us the opportunity to highlight the success stories of women in the West Region who

continue to do amazing things in business, across every sector. The day itself is also an opportunity for businesswomen to network, engage, share tips and advice and to find out what supports are available for their business through their Local Enterprise Office”. National Women’s Enterprise Day has grown yearon-year with 17 events

taking place across the country with over 1,700 female entrepreneurs in attendance. There was an 18% increase in female entrepreneurs taking Local Enterprise Office training programmes last year as almost 22,000 female ent3repreneurs and businesswomen engaged with their LEO on supports in 2018. The latest Global Entrepreneurship Moni-

tor report for Ireland also shows that nearly 40% of new business owners in 2018 were women. National Women’s Enterprise Day is one of the initiatives of the Local Enterprise Offices aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and assisting companies to start up and grow. For more information, log on to www.localenterprise. ie/roscommon.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

NewsPeople newsbriefs €643,563 for Group Water Schemes this year – Hopkins

The London to Ballaghaderreen charity cycle group generously donated €15,000 to help Jason with the purchase of a second-hand van.

London to Ballaghaderreen charity cycle raises £210,000 The recent London to Ballaghaderreen charity cycle raised £210,000 to help fund research on motor neurone and alzheimer’s disease. This event was organised in memory of Ballaghaderreen native Frank Kelly who passed away from motor neurone disease in 2017. Thirty-one cyclists started their five-day jour-

ney in London before travelling to Liverpool where they then got a ferry to Dublin. Over a dozen more cyclists joined the group in Dublin and travelled through Athlone and Ballymoe before arriving at Ballaghaderreen GAA Club. Pat Towey, who cycled from London to Ballaghaderreen, said: “It was an unbeliev-

able event. I was privileged to take part in it. The cycle was difficult but everything was organised so well. “It would not have been a success without the people backing us. I will never forget the stretch from Ballymoe to Ballaghaderreen and the support we received coming home. It is something that I will always remember”.

A thank you for ‘unbelievable support’  JASON CORRIGAN

I am writing this because I want to thank all the cyclists who completed the London to Ballaghaderreen charity cycle. This was an amazing achievement for everyone involved. The support was unbelievable and it was a great success. For me it was special as I have motor neurone disease.

A special word of thanks to Finbar, the ‘captain of the cycle’, who wanted to help me in making my life easier on this tough journey. I wish to say thank you to everyone who completed the charity cycle and to those who supported it as they helped raise an unbelievable amount of money for two great causes. Due to all the amazing fundraising, we were

able to fund a wheelchair accessible vehicle. I am so grateful for the vehicle and it is a big relief to have this. I would also like to thank Pat Towey, Ballaghaderreen, for the generous voucher for 500l of fuel. A big thanks to Wheelchair Cars Ireland in Athlone who have been very helpful in getting the vehicle suited to my needs. My family and I thank you all so much.

€643,563 in funding from the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, has been provided to Group Water Schemes across Co. Roscommon in 2019, Senator Maura Hopkins, right, has said. Senator Hopkins stated: “This funding for capital projects will enhance the infrastructure in group schemes across the county. This funding adds greatly to the investment which has been made in water infrastructure by Irish Water across the county over the past number of years. “Group schemes to receive funding in 2019 include Brusna; Gorthaganny; Castlestrange; Peake Mantua; Mid Roscommon (Oran, Ballintubber and Corracreigh); Polecat Springs; Woodbrook; Tobervaddy; Derrinasoo; Rockfield; Lisagallon and Crosshill”.

Local students to take part in RTÉ initiative Two County Roscommon students will be among 157 young people to take part in a new RTÉ initiative that will be shown live on national television. Rachel Devaney and Etain Fallon are among those who will feature on the RTÉ News Now television station on Friday, November the 15th as part of the RTÉ Youth Assembly on Climate. Rachel, who is from Kilmore, said: “I started to reduce my environmental impact as much as I could and tell others around me but I always felt like I could be doing more. When I heard about the Youth Assembly, I thought it was the best chance I have to help on a larger scale”. Etain, from Roscommon, who is 10 years old, added: “To help, we can cycle to school. We can also have a place in our garden where we don’t cut the grass so that the bees will have lots of flowers. We should stop destroying the bogs because they take up more greenhouse gases than any other habitat”. Rachel and Etain will be among 157 young people who will gather from across Ireland and sit in Leinster House to present their views on how Ireland should tackle the climate crisis. It will be shown live on RTÉ News Now and Oireachtas TV.

Funding for Cloonloo school works

Pat Towey of Towey’s Spar Xpress in Ballaghaderreen presents Jason Corrigan with a voucher for 500l of fuel.

Participants in the recent London to Ballaghaderreen charity cycle. Advertorial

Sweeney Oil…a local success story Sweeney Oil was established in Clifden, Co. Galway in 1987. We supply kerosene (home heating oil), agri fuel, commercial fuel and unleaded to relevant sectors across Galway, Mayo, Roscommon, Leitrim and the surrounding areas. We also supply fuel to the Aran Islands.

In October 2018 the Sweeney Oil Group acquired DG Oil Ltd., then a small independent oil distributor in Williamstown, Co. Galway. This successful addition has allowed us to continue to grow our business in the local areas and support these communities through local sponsorships

and excellent value on their fuel needs such as our popular €300 voucher giveaway. We are a truly independent company with values and principals based on serving the customer fairly. We have taken the longterm view to building our business.

Our local office is on the Racecourse Road in Roscommon town. You can contact us on 090-6634645 or to get in touch with any of the team…call Joe McEvoy on 087-1888115, Jason McEvoy on 087-1888114, Matt Devane on 087-1882288 or Aidan Casey on 087-4006004.

Fine Gael Senator Frank Feighan, right, has welcomed funding approval from the Department of Education for mechanical works to be carried out at Cloonloo National School. He said: “I am pleased that grant-aid has been approved for this work at Cloonloo National School. “I want to compliment the Board of Management and the whole school for their hard work in securing this funding. “These works will proceed once the tendering process has been completed and the Department’s School Building Unit will issue a detailed letter informing the school of the amount of grantaid sanctioned”.

Property People

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

‘Super’ family home with beautiful views Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke is offering for sale a lovely four-bedroomed semidetached property with beautiful views over Lough Glinn in the exclusive development of Hanley Avenue in Loughglynn village. No. 10, Hanley Avenue was constructed to a high standard and is presented in excellent condition throughout. Hanley Avenue is a small development with only 12 properties, guaranteeing you privacy. Internally, this home offers ample living space with accommodation comprising of an entrance hallway, sitting room with timber flooring and fireplace alongside an open plan kitchen/dining room with patio doors which lead to the rear garden. A guest toilet and utility room at the rear of the property completes the ground floor. The first floor consists of the main family bathroom, a spacious landing with hot press and four generous-sized

bedrooms with a master bedroom ensuite. Outside, the property offers a tarmacadam driveway, off-street parking to the front and a private rear garden with stunning views over Lough Glinn. Selling agent P. Burke said: “This is a super family home in a lovely location within walking distance of primary schools, pubs, the Church and other local amenities. Presented in great condition throughout, I would advise anyone looking for a quality family home to arrange a viewing as soon as possible”. No 10, Hanley Avenue would be ideal for a variety of purchasers, including owner occupants, first-time buyers and investors, considering the quality condition of the property. Asking price is €95,000. Contact P. Burke of Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke on 090-6627200 or email info@pburkeassociates.com. €95,000

PRICE DROP ROSCOMMON

NO 10 HANLEY AVENUE, LOUGHGLYNN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Call 090 662 7200

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON Find out more at mysherryfitz.ie

FOR SALE ROSCOMMON

€140,000

• Excellent 4 bed semi detached residence • Situated in an exclusive private development • Large garden to the rear with beautiful views of the Lough Glynn • Within 15 minutes of Knock International Airport and 10 minutes from the town of Castlerea. • Excellent family home or an ideal investment

CALL 090 662 7200

FOR SALE €350,000 ROSCOMMON

TO LET €25,000 PA.

AGHADERRY, LOUGHGLYNN, CO. ROSCOMMON

CRECHE, OLDWOOD, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON

• • • • •

• • • • • •

Lovely 3 bed detached two-storey Situated on c. 1 acre Beautiful mature gardens Large sheds to the rear Heavily insulated throughout

CALL 090 662 7200

Attractive property ideal for a ﬁrst-time buyer Connaughton Auctioneers are offering for sale a three-bedroomed semi-detached property in the village of Ballinagare. This very attractive residence, which sits on a large corner site, No.15, The Plains, is an ideal first-time buyer bargain and is also suitable for the investment market. The property boasts a spacious living space internally while it also contains an unusually large garden as a bonus. Upon entrance, the hallway leads into a large sitting room located on the right with a bay window, open fireplace, wooden flooring, etc. Further down the hallway is the kitchen with utility room off. There are also fully fitted kitchen units with tiled flooring and backsplash, integrated appliances

Purpose built single storey creche Approx. 1km from Roscommon Town Surrounded by over 80 residential homes Can accommodate up to 40 children Outside play & recreation area Large off road parking area

CALL 090 662 7200

It’s not just about property. It’s about people. PSRA No. 001316

No.15, The Plains, Ballinagare.

and a sliding patio door leading into the manicured garden to the side of the property. The utility room also contains fully fitted units with door off to the rear and guest WC. On the first floor there are three double bedrooms, each with wooden flooring and built-in wardrobes. The master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom, which is fully tiled. The main bathroom is on this floor and contains a bath, toilet and whb. The landing area has access to attic via folding attic stairs. This property is ready to move into and is highly recommended for viewing. For further details and to arrange an appointment, contact the office on 090-6663700 or email info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

PropertyPeople New to the market – prime investment property in Roscommon Town Ciara Kelly, Keane Solicitors, Hardiman House, Eyre Sq., Galway. 091566767. BER: C1-D2. For further details please contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

Stonecourt development in Roscommon Town centre

EARLEY

A PRIMELY LOCATED 3 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE STANDING ON A MATURE SITE AREA OF APPROX. 1.08 ACRES LOCATED AT

“PONDAROSA”, CREEVY ROAD, BESIDE ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON. Castleview Terrace, off Castle Street, Roscommon town.

All offers above €50,000 invited for ofﬁce/retail space with Earley’s John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week seeking offers above €50,000 for a prime retail/office property of c. 2,100 sq.ft. located at 11 & 12, Castleview Terrace, off Castle Street, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “a primely located commercial unit with the benefit of substantial car parking facilities and spacious accommodation to suit either office or retail purposes”. The said property is at shell and core finish throughout and with provision for bathrooms and kitchenettes in situ. “The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €50,000 to sell. BER: C1. Legal: Messers O’Sullivan & Hutchinson, Portarlington, Co. Laois”. To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie. Find us on facebook at www. facebook.com.

A IN L O VI FF TE ER D S

court Centre’ is serviced by extensive car parking facilities to the rear, together with all other free town centre parking facilities and has a quality mix of long-term tenants in situ. Current passing rent from all tenancies is c. €49,500 per annum. Price guide: €460,000 + VAT if applicable (the entire). Legal:

PRSA No. 001481

FIN

John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering new to the market a primely located investment portfolio of four retail units located in the prominent Stonecourt development in Roscommon Town centre. Three of the properties are currently let on very attractive rental terms with the tenants in same not affected. John said: “This is a highly attractive investment opportunity, in which the said units can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate. The said units occupy a high profile trading position on the square in Roscommon’s most historic building with the benefit of a high level of passing traffic and pedestrian footfall due to its location”. The established ‘Stone-

PROPERTY PARTNERS

A quality 3 B/R bungalow residence of approx. 1,200 sq.ft which stands on a beautifully mature site area of approx. 1.08 acres. Situated in a renowned residential location beside Roscommon town, the said property is presented for sale in good condition and offers spacious living accommodation throughout. Note: Offers for the said residence and lands located to the rear of same can be considered independently should market interest dictate. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers to sell. BER: E1. PRIME LANDS CONTAINING APPROX. 13.25 ACRES LOCATED AT

CARTRON, BEALNAMULLIA, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Two top residential investment opportunities REA Seamus Carthy is delighted to offer two residential investment opportunities situated within Roscommon Town. No. 3, Glenview, Galway Road, is a substantial four/ five-bedroomed family home set on a large corner site within walking distance of all amenities in Roscommon Town. The said property is presented in excellent condition throughout with a quality tenant in place generating €10,200 per annum. Guide price: €200,000. Abbeytown, Roscommon Town, houses an exceptional three-bedroomed detached property situated within walking distance of all amenities in Roscommon Town. This two-storey residence presents itself as a rare opportunity to acquire an excellent property, let to quality tenants and producing €10,800 per annum. Guide price: €210,000. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to purchase a quality residential investment property. It is better than money in the bank! Viewing of both properties comes highly recommended. To arrange a viewing, contact our office on 090-6630001 or email info@reacarthy.ie.

Hughes & Company have a large five-bedroomed two-storey residence available to rent at The Ballina, Dysart Spinney, Abbeytown, Roscommon. For further information Sale of Dysart property or to make an appointment imminent? to view, contact the office on Hughes & Company of Abbey Street, Roscommon 090-6627003 or email info@ say they are at an advanced stage of negotiations for pathughesauctioneers.com. the sale of a two-bedroomed bungalow located at Ballina, Dysart. The residence is finished to a high standard and stands on a circa one-acre site on the New to the market at main Ballyforan to Dysart road, convenient to all Abbey Street amenities. Pat is hopeful of concluding a sale in Hughes & Company have the coming days. For further information contact on offer new to the market at the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathugh- Abbey Street, Roscommon, a esauctioneers.com. large building laid out into three separate offices and a two-bedTwo sites for sale at The Walk, roomed apartment. Roscommon The residence is situated in one Hughes & Company are offering for sale two sites of the most sought after areas in of approximately .3 acres at The Walk, Roscommon. Roscommon town. One of the sites has the benefit of full planning per- For further information or mission for a bungalow while the other is suitable to make an appointment to for two houses, subject to planning permission be- view, contact the office on ing granted. For further information or to make an 090-6627003 or email info@ appointment to view, contact the office on 090- pathughesauctioneers.com. 6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

A MOST ATTRACTIVE 2 B/R SEMI DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 750 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

4 ESSEX GROVE, CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

A IN L O VI FF TE ER D S

No. 3, Glenview, Galway Road, Roscommon.

For rent in prime location in Roscommon Town

A most attrative parcel of good quality agricultural lands set out in one lot and located in a select agricultural district close to Athlone town centre. Standing on the said lands is a cattle crush and pen set to the road front. Prime lands which the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell.

FIN

Abbeytown, Roscommon town.

Hughes & Company are offering for sale at Abbey Street, Roscommon a newlyrefurbished three-bedroomed townhouse. Accommodation consists of a sitting room, kitchen cum living/dining room, larder, downstairs toilet & WHB. Upstairs consists of three bedrooms with one ensuite and a walk-in wardrobe and a bathroom. This residence has the benefit of a nice cobblelock yard to the rear. The property is prominently located in one of Roscommon’s most sought after areas and is close to schools, shops, the local Church and all local amenities. For further information or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ Abbey Street, Roscommon pathughesauctioneers.com.

NE W MA TO RK TH ET E

Newly-refurbished townhouse is well worth viewing

A primely located bungalow residence situated in a most attractive and established residential development just off Castle Street. The said property offers spacious living accommodation throughout and stands on a mature site area. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers to sell. BER: E1.

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 25 October 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

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

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

BOUNCING CASTLES

Complete Chimney Services

TELEPHONE:

087 4668675 CAREER ADVICE CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

Grace O’Reilly

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS ROOM 14, 1ST FLOOR ST. COMAN’S CLUB, ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON EIR CODE: F42YT51 Tuesday 1pm; Tuesday 9pm; Wednesday 1pm; Thursday 1pm; Thursday 9pm; Saturday 8.30pm; Sunday 12 noon

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

BARBERS

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

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

CHIROPODIST

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

WE HAVE MOVED TO BALLINTUBBER Open Fridays or by appointment PHONE HELEN:

087 6833053

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

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!

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

Bouncy Castles

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

COUNSELLING

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST

Gerrity

090 66 25818 086 0352849

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

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

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

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 –

CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR POWER WASHING

ACUPUNCTURE

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

Traditional Chinese Medicine

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

CHIROPODIST

Michael Lennon Lic. Ac.

Galway Road, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626023

CHIROPRACTOR

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

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

RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

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

EDT Lessons Available

094 96 20099

Tel: 086 2387528

086 8936012

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

Provided in the comfort of your own home

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

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

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock parts fitted on site (if necessary) Currently in 2019, sprayers are required to be tested every 5 years according to Dept. of Agriculture regulations. From 2020 all sprayes are required to be tested every 3 years Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EL000083

FAMILY CIRCLE 21/10/19

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

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

NO FIX NO FEE

FAMILY CIRCLE

Specialising in:

Telephone: 086 8433433

Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

FARMING

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE www.aclearsteerdriving.com

DC Computer Services

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

DRIVING LESSONS

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring

COMPUTERS

085 2514394

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare Kathleen Wynne

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

COUNSELLING

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

FIRST PRIZE €50: Ellen Tully c/o Ros Vet Supplies SECOND PRIZE €25: Seamus Hannon c/o John Igoe THIRD PRIZE €20: Ann Harkin c/o K Collins 3 PROMOTERS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Mary Barry John Igoe, Abbey Meat Breda Healy Total Receipts: €397 Total Prizes: €110

VHI and Laya Covered

MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time Please call us on 090-6634633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Classifieds FARMING  A B AT TO I R S E R V I C E AVA I L A B L E : Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715  FOR SALE: Excellent quality round bales of Haylage €25 per bale delivered. Tel: 086 2628439

FENCING/GATES

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

● ●

●

Tel: 087 2172281

Des Kelly Fencing Over 20 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Cresoted Posts • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on

087 2346364

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

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

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

087 6558597 GATELY GARDENING Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

ALL ABOUT THE GARDEN

Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

090 6630879 or Mobile

087 2835742 JOE HEALY Tree Services • Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured

Phone:

087 2721193

Amatsu Therapy Neuromuscular therapy & orthopaedic sports massage ●

●

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

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

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

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

086 4679798

www.parklawntreeservices.

HEDGE CUTTING

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

• Roscommon Town • Grass and Hedge Cutting • General Maintenance • Strimming and Weeding • Winter Clean-up/ Maintenance

CONTACT KEVIN:

Movement Matters

PAINTING & DECORATING

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

PHYSICAL THERAPY Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

●

GARDENING GARDENING SERVICES

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries. Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

Can we help you? Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009 Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com 1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902

CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732  TO LET: One bedroom, ground floor apartment to rent in Bawn Street, Strokestown. Tel: 086 8106655  TO LET: 3 bedroom house to rent Beechwood, Roscommon town (3 miles out on the Lanesboro Road). Minimum 1 year lease. References required. Tel: 087 2822534

PROPERTY FOR SALE OR RENT  FOR SALE OR RENT: Frenchpark 2 bed townhouse for sale or rent, mint condition, OFCH, close to local ammenities, bus stop etc. Telephone Sean: 087 2371716

DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON

or Mobile:

Driving School

Professional Painter Available FOR ALL YOUR INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING Tried & Trusted since 1993 Quotation without obligation

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

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

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED

090 6661635 087 2683079

MORRIS LOHAN Consulting Engineers Castle Street, Roscommon Phone: 090 66 27950

www.morrislohan.ie

Phone Alan on:  HEDGE CUTTING SERVICE AVAILABLE: Excavator with saw/flial for hire, Roscommon and Longford areas. Tel: 086 8534011

PLANNINGS

087 2295551

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

HUGH KILDUFF CABS Tel: 086 2479829

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

TUITION  TUITION: Irish, French, German tuition. Oral, written and exam paper technique for Higher Level and Ordinary Level, Junior Cert and Leaving Cert, Castlerea town. Tel: 087 3515985  TUITION: Castlerea/Tulsk area, Leaving and Junior Cert. Maths, French, Irish. Private tuition in your own home. Tel: 086 3282437

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

KELLY’S EYE Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural

086 3482387

Taxi and Minibus hire.

PHONE:

087 2727888

TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

Roscommon Grinds & Study Hub Abbey St., Roscommon Supervised study every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evening and all day Saturday. Grinds available in higher/ ordinary level Maths and French (with a native French speaker). Pay as you go options available. Contact Shane

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI) Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Colic • Eczema • Constipation • Migraine • Back Problems • Stress • Infertility • Insomnia • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Pain • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Emotional Disorders - Fertility Reflexology - Ante Natal Reflexology - Baby Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Special Needs Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

083 3786623

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

Find us on FB/Inst RoscommonStudyHub

Padraig Healy

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

Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible Call car direct

(086) 2714879

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Classifieds TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

TURF & Tonne Bags also

PEAT BEDDING AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas)

 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

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

USEFUL SERVICES

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

LOFT LADDERS

 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 086 3312411 after 6pm.  FOR SALE: Loads of good black turf and bags of turf. Also Horse hay for sale. Tel: 086 2544294 or 086 3903120 WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:

 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  CARPENTER AVAILABLE: For work on first and second fix, roofing and slating, all maintenance. Tel: 087 6467322

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

The company that can do all them small jobs

PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

FROM

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

Supplied & Fitted From

€190 www.oddjobsolutions.ie

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

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

Aluminium

094 96 31880 087 9100477

 TURF FOR SALE: In tonne bags, delivery to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Price €50. Bag and delivery also included in price. Tel: 086 8534011

USEFUL SERVICES

Established since 2005  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.  HANDYMAN SERVICES: Do you need odd jobs doing around your home/yard? Do you have no time to do them yourself? Don’t want to contact a specialised tradesman to carry out these tasks? ● Gardening ● Stonework ● Clean up/Tidying ● Concrete repairs ● Fence repairs ● Pointing/Repointing ● Cutting/Chopping firewood. Honest Service Provided at a Reasonable Rate. Phone: 087 2176205  CARPENTER AVAILABLE: For timber floors, competitive pricing and friendly advice. Call/Text anytime to arrange viewing and pricing 089 9872234

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

CRASH REPAIRS

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

086 2437376

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

 FOR SALE: 7.5 tonne loads of seasoned turf and hardwood. Tel: 087 4350736

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We intend to apply for planning permission to retain enlarged garage site area used for vehicle parking and circulation at existing garage premises at Farnbeg, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee, not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and submissions or observations in relation to the application can be made to the planning authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee, within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Westward Garage Ltd.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Mike Small am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct side extension to existing dwelling house and all ancillary site development works at Pollaneyster, Williamstown, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. F45 XR62 Signed: James Lohan Consulting Engineer Ltd. 22 Castle View Terrace, Castle Street, Roscommon. M: 087 8228529 or 087 9595520 T: 090 6627950 Email: jlohan@morrislohan. ie or aaron@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 five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Brian and Sarah Horan are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct rear extension to existing dwelling house along with upgrading existing treatment system, constructing new boundary wall and entrance and carry out all ancillary site works at Carnagrukane, Lisacul, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Signed: James Lohan Consulting Engineer Ltd. 22 Castle View Terrace, Castle Street, Roscommon. M: 087 8228529 or 087 9595520 T: 090 6627950 Email: jlohan@morrislohan. ie or aaron@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 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 David Cruise intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to erect a dwelling house, install a waste water treatment unit with soil polishing filter and to construct ancillary site works to facilitate same at Gortanabla Td., Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: David Cruise.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for erection of dwelling house with proprietary sewerage treatment plant and percolation area, and ancillary site development works at Aghalour, Loughglynn. Signed: Alan Keane 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.

PUBLIC NOTICE TAKE NOTICE that KILTEEVAN GUN CLUB have preserved parts of the lands and bogs in the townlands of Annaghmore, Aughmagree, Ballinaboy, Beldere, Beechwood, Cloncellan, Derrinterk, Derrycarbery, Emoe, Doogramore, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Cloonlarge, Carramore, Killerney and Carton. The Association has preserved as a game sanctuary parts of townlands of Cloontogher, Clooneigh, Doogramore and Kilteevan occupied by the representatives of George Kilmartin in these townlands. Persons found in pursuit of game in the lands and bogs referred to above will be prosecuted. Signed: The Secretary.

PUBLIC NOTICE AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT GAMING AND LOTTERIES ACT, 1956 SECTION 15 APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE DISTRICT COURT AREA OF ROSCOMMON DISTRICT NO. 4 APPLICANT: PAUL WALSH as Nominee of PMC Distribution Ltd TAKE NOTICE that the above named applicant(s), Paul Walsh AS NOMINEE OF PMC DISTRIBUTION LIMITED with a registered address at Old Dublin Road, Ballisodare, County Sligo will apply to the Court sitting at The Courthouse, Roscommon on the 19th November 2019 at 10.30 a.m. at Roscommon District Court for a Certificate under Section 15 of the Gaming & Lotteries Act, 1956 (No. 2 of 1956) authorising the issue of a licence permitting gaming at an amusement hall or funfair, namely “Casino” situate at Castle Street, Roscommon in the said Court Area. The number and kinds of games proposed to be carried on are as follows:- 36 Gaming machines. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the applicant will rely on the following matters in support of the Application:1. The Applicant is not disqualified by Section 8 of the said Act from the promotion of gaming under Section 6 or Section 7 thereof. 2. The other forms of amusement to be provided are as follows:– amusement skill machines. Dated this 9th day of October 2019 Signed: Mahon Sweeney Solicitors for the Applicants To:

Chief Fire Officer, Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae, Roscommon

To:

The Superintendent, Garda Siochana Garda Station, Roscommon

To:

District Court Clerk, Court Services Office Golflinks Road, Roscommon

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

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

80,000 LOCAL people every week!

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

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

Chris’s Locksmith Service

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

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.

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

BRENDAN DOOLIN

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories

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

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4 email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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

08383

RECYCLING

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

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

GLASS

Boyle Glass Ballinameen, Boyle,

Tel: 071 96 68368 - Stained Decorative

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

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

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

LIFE COACH

LOCKSMITH

WINDOWS/DOORS

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

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

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417

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

CLEANING RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

DRILLING SERVICE

Chasing / Core Drilling Service Domestic & Commercial

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

Prompt Service | Keen Rates | Fully Insured

Call John 087 610 8499

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892 TREE SURGEON

Ros Carpentry ROOFING, CARPENTRY AND BUILDING SERVICE

CContact: GGerry M Monaghan h

Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon T: 090 64 93386 M: 086 8207242 or Darren on 086 8972265

PHONE: 086 8229606 CAREER COACHING: * CV WRITING AND UPDATING * INTERVIEW GUIDANCE & MASTERING * GET THAT PROMOTION! * MAKE A CAREER CHANGE OR RETURN TO WORK AFTER TIME OUT * ASSISTANCE WITH JOB SEARCH PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * COPE AND EMBRACE CHANGE IN LIFE, E.G. RETIREMENT, NEW JOB, SEPARATION ETC * STUCK IN A RUT? WANT HELP TO LIVE A MORE BALANCED AND HAPPIER LIFE? EDUCATION COACHING: * HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT COURSE FOR A BETTER MORE INFORMED COURSE CHOICE DECISION

CARPENTRY

TARMACADAM

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

INSTALLATION

Gerry Monaghan

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

●

CAROLINE BURKE COACHING

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

Cut/Truss and Flat Roofs, Slating, Tiling and Single Ply Flat Roofing 1st, 2nd Fix Carpentry and Flooring New Build Houses, Extensions, Renovations and Maintenance Foundations, Drainage, Drives and Patios

Over 30 years experience

Tel 085 8057722

TREE SURGEON SPECIALISTS ● Overgrown Hedge Maintenance Domestic Cutting ● 24-hour Emergency Services ● Tree Removal ● Tree Reduction ● Pruning and Shaping ● Wood Chippings Services ● Site Clearance ● Fully insured ●

Call for free quotation on 086 2215570 or 071 9664086

roscarpentry@gmail.com

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial H91 P5k5 BlockEstate, 12, Galway Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

VETERINARY

The Right Vet for your Pet GlenamaddyVeterinary Clinic F45 F430

FARMING

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

Office: 094 9659428 Mobile: 087 2543722 24 Hour Service

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New clients welcome Established 1990

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

www.glenamaddyveterinaryclinic.ie

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

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES DOWLING Rose Lisgobbin, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary)

MONTH’S MIND DONNELLY Liam Rahara, Roscommon Who died 15th September 2019

In loving memory of Rose, who died on October 27th 2013 R.I.P. If we could visit Heaven On this our saddest day Maybe for a moment Our pain would go away We would put our arms around you and whisper words so true That living life without you Is the hardest thing to do We can not bring the old days back When we were all together But loving thoughts and memories Will stay with us forever

Loved forever and sadly missed by her husband Pat, son Michael, daughters Martha and Sylvia, sons-inlaw and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, 26th October at 7pm.

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

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

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email:

We, the family of the late Liam Donnelly, would like to thank everyone who sympathised with us on the death of Liam. Thanks to everyone who called to our home, to those who travelled long distances, to all who attended his Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, and to all who sent Mass Cards and messages of sympathy. Thank you to Liam’s Home Help, to the management and staff of Tearmainn Bhríde Nursing Home who cared so well for Liam, to the doctors and nursing staff at Portiuncula Hospital and the Palliative Care team, to Liam’s many Bingo friends, Dysart Men’s group and all our friends and neighbours for their help and support. Thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Liam’s final resting place. A special word of thanks to his cousin Fr. Michael Donnelly who celebrated his Funeral Mass, assisted by Fr. Ray Milton and Deacon Willie Gacquin and to Fr. Donal Morris who attended at Liam’s Removal. A big thank you to those who provided beautiful music and singing during the Mass. Thank you to the IFA and Rahara Rovers Football Club for providing Guards of Honour and to the Funeral Directors, Tom and Pat Smyth for their kindness and professionalism throughout the Funeral. Please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for you all. Liam’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in Rahara Church on Saturday, 26th October at 11am.

THANKSGIVINGS 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. Amen. M.C.

LOUGH Eileen & Joan

HEAVEY Ellen

Skreen Road, Navan Road, Dublin 7 (formally Clooncundra, Ballymurry, County Roscommon) (1st Anniversary)

Fairfield, Creggs, Co. Galway Who died on 12th October 2018

Eileen who passed away on 6th October, 2018

Joan who passed away on 23rd October, 2018

Eileen and Joan’s family would like to thank most sincerely all the people who sympathised with us on the sad passing of twins Eileen and Joan. Special thanks to all those people who called to our home and to our kind neighbours and friends who brought food and refreshments. Thanks to those who helped with traffic management and those who attended the Removal, the Funeral Mass and Burial. To those who travelled long and short distances, and sent messages of sympathy, Mass Cards, enrolments and flowers, we are forever grateful for such thoughtful gestures and support. Thank you to Fr. Sean Beirne and Fr. Francis Glennon for celebrating Eileen and Joan’s Funeral Masses so beautifully. Thank you to the altar servers. Our gratitude to Enya Reilly for providing the music at Eileen’s Funeral Mass. Also, thanks to the Kilteevan Church Choir for providing the music at Joan’s Funeral Mass. We wish to thank Dr. John Keenan, Dr. Claire Quinn and the nurses from the Palliative Care team for their care, compassion and support to Eileen and Joan and to our family. A very special thank you to the staff of Sonas Care Centre Cloverhill for their kindness and wonderful care they provided for Eileen and Joan during their time with them and for their support following Eileen and Joan’s passing. To Tom, Pat and John Smyth for their true professionalism, guidance and personal attention in arranging and carrying out Eileen and Joan’s Funerals. Thank you to the gravediggers who prepared Eileen and Joan’s final resting place. As it is impossible to thank each and everyone individually, we trust this acknowledgement will be accepted by all as a token of our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Eileen and Joan’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 27th October, 2019 at 10am.

MURTAGH Ann Rose Lawn Drive, Castlerea (1st Anniversary) Who died on 15th October 2018

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Our deadline for receipt of Family Notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday.

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

We cannot guarantee publication after this time.

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

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

On the First Anniversary of Ann’s death, her sister Kathleen (Padden), nieces and nephews would like to thank all our extended family and friends for the kindness and support over the past year. May she Rest In Peace

Ellen’s husband Paddy, daughters Marguerite and Maria, sons-in-law Micheál and Jude, and Ellen’s deceased sister’s (Catherine Lohan R.I.P.) family, brother-in-law Michael, niece Mary and nephews John, Thomas and Michael, her sisters-in-law Bryde and Lena, and brother-in-law Hugh, would like to convey our sincere thanks to all those who sympathised with us during our sad loss. We would like to wholeheartedly thank our very kind relatives, neighbours and friends, who supported us and helped us with arrangements and farming during this time. We would like to express our deep gratitude to all those who attended the wake, removal, funeral mass and burial, especially those who travelled long distances to be with us. To those who sent mass cards, perpetual mass enrolments, cards and letters of condolence, telephone messages and floral tributes, we are truly grateful for your thoughtfulness. Your heartfelt expressions of sympathy in these ways helped us greatly on our journey with our grief. We would like to extend very special thanks to our parish priest at that time, Fr. Larry Ebuk, for his immeasurable attentiveness and dedication to his religious duties, in supporting and comforting Ellen during her illness. We further wish to thank Fr. Larry for his attendance at the hospital to pray with us on Ellen’s passing, for attending our home and the funeral home to pray for the repose of her soul, for celebrating her funeral mass, officiating at the burial, and for celebrating her month’s mind mass. A very special word of thanks also to Fr. Patrick Hogan SVD, Fr. Louis Lohan, Fr. Cornelius Mullaney and Fr. Frank McGrath SVD for concelebrating at Ellen’s funeral mass and also to Canon Joe Fitzgerald, Fr. Michael Breslin and Fr. Francis Beirne for their words of comfort to us at the funeral home. Special thanks to the Pastoral Care team of Portiuncula Hospital for praying with Ellen and for comforting and supporting us. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to those who cared for Ellen in her illness. To Professor Hardiman and her team in Beaumount Hospital, the Motor Neurone Disease Association, the Emergency Department, St. John’s Ward and the Palliative Care staff of Portiuncula Hospital. Many thanks to Dr. Martin Daly and all the staff at the Ballygar Health Centre, the multidisciplinary team involved in Ellen’s care at her home, the Galway Hospice Palliative Care team and to the excellent Home Help staff. We are very grateful for the dignity, care, respect and kindness you showed to Ellen. We would like to extend our appreciation and thanks to David Moran undertaker for his decorum, guidance and professionalism. A big thank you to St. Mary’s Church choir, church sacristans, Eucharistic ministers, readers and altar servers for their participation in the funeral and month’s mind masses. Our heartfelt thanks to the gravediggers and to the excellent catering provided by O’Rourkes, Creggs and Fallon’s, Ballygar. Thank you to all who contributed to the Motor Neurone Association Collection. The Holy Sacrifice of the mass will be offered for your intentions. Ellen’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church Kilbegnet on Sunday, 27th October at 11.30am.

Family Notices

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES In loving memory of

KENNY Michael

GREENE Gerald & Frances

late of Tully, Fourmilehouse and Glenview (11th Anniversary) Who died 27th October 2008

Killerney, Roscommon. Gerald who died on 21st October 1988 (31st Anniversary)

NAUGHTON James

KELLY Kieran and Enda

Mullaghard, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon 19th October 2007 (12th Anniversary)

Rathbrennan, Roscommon

(12th Anniversary) (5th Anniversary) In loving memory of Kieran, who died on 28th September 2007 and Enda who died on 2nd November 2014 We sat beside your bedside, Our hearts were crushed and sore We did our best to the end ‘Til we could do no more. In tears we watched you sinking, We watched you fade away, And though our hearts were breaking, We knew you could not stay. You left behind some aching hearts, That loved you most sincere, We never shall and never will forget you Michael dear. “When someone you love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure”

Sadly missed by Mam, Dad, Carmel, Pat and Kevin. ~~~~~~~~~~ No matter how life changes No matter what we do. A special place within our hearts is always kept for you, Today we light a candle and say a special prayer. We take a trip down memory lane And know that your are there.

Sadly missed by Margaret, Frank and Mairead. Anniversary Mass in Four-Mile-House Church on Friday, 25th October at 8pm.

Frances who died on 30th September 2013 (6th Anniversary)

Mum & Dad You brightened up this world And so very selflessly, Gave everything you had And brought so much joy to us. You guided us so wisely And you’re so sorely missed each day, And the only comfort is the memories That will never fade away. You were both so very special And, although losing you brought pain, You now are both together And one day we’ll meet again.

Loved and forever missed by Anne, Gary, Jacinta, Niall and families. Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Four-MileHouse, Roscommon on Saturday, 26th October at 7pm.

FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon

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

No special day is needed For us to think of you You are always in our thoughts No matter what we do. You’re more than a Precious memory From whom we had to part. You are the light that burns within us, In the centre of our hearts.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Teresa, daughters, son, sonsin-law, grandchildren and extended family. Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Saturday, 26th of October at 7pm.

Deep are the memories, Precious they stay. No passing of time, Can take them away.

Always loved and remembered by their family and friends. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 31st October at 7pm.

You can shed tears that he is gone, Or you can smile because he has lived. You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back, Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left. Your heart can be empty because you can’t see him, Or you can be full of the love that you shared. You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday. You can remember him and only that he is gone, Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind, Be empty and turn your back, Or you can do what he would want: Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

Forever in our hearts, Dawn, Emma, Brigeen, Gerry, family and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Four-Mile-House on Saturday, 26th October at 7pm.

Creggane, Cornafulla, Athlone Who died on 7th November 2018

BROPHY Fidelma Castleplunkett, Roscommon Who died on 6th September 2019

FITZMAURICE Alan Ardsallagh Beg, Roscommon Who died 21st October 2007 (12th Anniversary)

SEERY (Nee Fallon) Kathleen

Fidelma’s husband Tony, brothers Bernie, Ted, Tom, Hughie and sister Kathleen along with her nieces, nephews and extended family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all those who attended Fidelma’s Funeral in September. We thank Fr. Poole for giving Fidelma his blessing and his words of prayer at the house. We thank Fr. Larney, the Sacristans, Eucharistic Minister, Servers and Bernadine Casserley for the beautiful Funeral ceremony. We extend our gratitude to Hester’s for catering on the occasion. We will always remember the kindness of those who called, sent text mesages and cards and travelled long distances to offer their sympathy for our deep loss. To McDonagh Funeral Directors and Sean Finan, we offer thanks for their professionalism and care during this difficult time. We extend this gratitude to Garda Tyrone Tobin and stewards for helping with traffic control. We would like to thank the nurses in the Sligo Oncology Ward for their dedicated care to Fidelma over the last four years. A special thanks to the Roscommon Palliative Care team for looking after Fidelma in her final month’s. To Dr. Claire Keaveney for her attention to Fidelma. To Nial Tully and all the staff in Tully’s Chemist for all their help. Month’s Mind We thank Fr. Larney, Fr. Justus and Carmel McLoughlin for their moving tribute to Fidelma at her Month’s Mind. We thank everyone who travelled to this and offered their prayers for her. We extend this thanks to Dec’s Bar in Castleplunkett along with Patricia Smyth for catering on the occasion. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually we hope this acknowledgment will be accepted as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offerd for your intentions.

On this, the First Anniversary of the passing of a beloved wife and mother Kathleen, we her family wish to offer our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support and sympathy received during her illness, at the time of her death and over the past year. We thank most sincerely and take great comfort from the huge numbers who attended the Reposing, Funeral Mass and Burial and especially those who travelled long distances, sent messages of sympathy/Mass Cards. Sincere thanks to Dr. Michelle Culligan and all the staff of Monksland Medical Centre, Kevin and staff of Cunningham’s Pharmacy and the doctors, nurses and staff of Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe for their excellent care and attention. We are forever indebted to the staff of Bluebird Care, Monksland for their high standard of care to Kathleen in her own home and to the Roscommon Palliative Care team. We wish to offer our heartfelt thanks to our wonderful neighbours and friends who took care of the catering, traffic control and prepared Kathleen’s final resting place, those who formed a Guard of Honour from her home and the Drum Heritage Group for their Guard of Honour in Drum. To Fr. Michael Hickey C.C. Drum for celebrating her Funeral Mass and for his regular visits we thank you sincerely, also Organist Maura O’Brien and Soloist Clare Lennon for greatly enchancing the Funeral Liturgy. We thank Arlene McNeill and staff for their courtesy and dignified manner in which they carried out Kathleen’s Funeral arrangements and the staff of the Shamrock Lodge Hotel for providing a meal after the Funeral. As it is not possible to thank everyone individually we trust you will accept this acknowledgement as a sincere token of our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offerd for your intentions. Kathleen’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Brigid’s Church, Drum on Friday, 1st November at 10am.

/RYH·V *UHDWHVW *LIW 5HPHPEUDQFH

THANKSGIVINGS 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.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES WARD Edward (Ned)

TIERNAN Brian

CULLINAN Francis (Frank)

Scregg, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary)

Cartron, Kilrooskey, Roscommon (37th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 25th October 1982 R.I.P.

Lissananny, Castlerea Who passed away on 7th October 2010 (9th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Ned who died on the 27th October 2013 R.I.P. We lost a Father with a heart of gold How much we miss him can never be told He shared our troubles and helped us along If we follow his footsteps we will never go wrong It broke our hearts to lose you But you did not go alone For part of us went with you The day God called you Home As we look upon your pictures Sweet memories we recall Of faces full of sunshine A smile for one and all You are always close behind us In everything we do You were a special Father God’s gift to us was you Sweet Jesus take this message To our dear Father up above Tell him how we miss him And give him all our love We hold him close within our hearts and there he shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again So Rest in Peace dear loved one And thanks for all you’ve done We pray that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won Deep are the memories Precious they stay No passing of time Can take them away

Always loved and sadly missed by his sons Con and Aidan and daughter-in-law Kathleen. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 26th October at 7pm.

No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you.

Sadly missed by your loving daughter Kathleen and family.

DUFFY Jerry Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway 7th Anniversary occurs on the 26th October, 2019

Treasured memories of Jerry. Those of you who think of him, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved, remembered and never forgotten by your sister Julia, brother-in-law Gerry and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday, 26th October, 2019 at 7.30pm.

In loving memory of Frank from your loving wife Rhona and all the family. Anniversary Mass in Ballinagare Church on Sunday, 27th October at 10am.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

COEN Michael Boyle, Co. Roscommon 50th Birthday Remembrance Saturday, October 26th

May the Blessed Mary Be our protection and comfort This day and all days ‘Til she welcomes us to the Eternal Home above, Amen. St. J. H. Newman

Thinking of you with love.

Appointments

THANKSGIVINGS

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For a Financial crisis... Here is a prayer for your money emergency. The traditional way to petition Saint Expedite is to take a white and a green candle; carve your name on them lengthwise. Light the candles and continue lighting the candles and praying to him until you receive his answer. Have faith and do not doubt his power or willingness to help you. Pray to Saint Expedite I call forth the Power and the presence of St. Expedite in my time of financial trouble. I offer my body, heart, mind and soul upon your altar of light. I have faith and trust and complete confidence that you will be my strength in this time of need. Quickly come to my assistance. Bring to me _________ (Clearly express what you want, and ask him to find a way to get it to you.) My financial need is urgent. Be my Light and Guide in this situation so that I may live with peace, love, prosperity and abundance and in the Praise of God. Amen. (Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering if your desire is granted.) A.K.

PRAYER FOR THE INTERCESSION OF ST. PIO OF PIETRELCINA Dear God, You generously blessed Your servant, St. Pio of Pietrelcina, with the gifts of the Spirit. You marked his body with the five wounds of Christ Crucified, as a powerful witness to the saving Passion and Death of Your Son. Endowed with the gift of discernment, St. Pio labored endlessly in the confessional for the salvation of souls. With reverence and intense devotion in the celebration of Mass, he invited countless men and women to a greater union with Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. Through the intercession of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, I confidently beseech You to grant me the grace of (here state your petition). Glory be to the Father… (three times). Amen. A.K.

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For desperate causes... My Saint Expedite of urgent and just causes, please intercede for me with Our Lord Jesus Christ. Succor me in this hour of affliction and despair, my Saint Expedite. You who are a Holy warrior, You who are the Saint of the afflicted, You who are the Saint of the desperate, you who are the Saint of urgent causes, Protect me, Help me, Give me Strength, Courage and Serenity. Hear my plea. ____________ (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 the 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 Holy Mary, and make the sign of the cross.) (Be sure to provide the offering you promised if Saint Expedite grants your petition) A.K.

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

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

Gilligan’s Farm have part-time and full-time opportunities to join our

PRODUCTION TEAM We are seeking reliable, hard working general operatives, duties to include: ● Packing meat cuts to customer specification ● Weigh, pack and display of meat cuts ● Assist in the production of beef burgers and

various retail meat packs The ideal candidate should have basic IT skills, strong attention to detail and an interest in butchering is preferred. All training will be provided. Please forward your CV and cover letter to:

alan@gilligansfarm.ie Or post to: Alan Gilligan, Gilligan’s Farm, Derrrane Road, Four Mile House, Co Roscommon.

SITUATIONS WANTED

Part-time driver (SPSV Licence holder)

Seeking casual work Replies to: Box No. 2076, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon SITUATIONS VACANT  BAR STAFF: Experienced staff required for pub in Williamstown. Immediate start. Tel: 087 7692029

SITUATIONS WANTED  LORRY DRIVER/360 OPERATOR AVAILABLE: For full-time work, Roscommon area. Full clean C/CE licence, CPC’s up to date, 360 Ticket and Safe Pass. Tel: 086 1289065

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

Sports People Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Brilliant Ballinameen!

Pictured are the Ballinameen players, backroom and supporters following last Sunday’s King and Moffatt Roscommon Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Final win over St. Brigid’s at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Junior Champions 2019

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

SportPeople This weekend’s action Racing today is on at Thurles with a national hunt card away at 1.45 pm start and tomorrow on the all-weather track at Dundalk off at 5.45 pm. Saturday there is racing on the level at Leopardstown, featuring the Group 3 Killavullan Stakes with stalls opening for the first at 1.25 pm. Saturday also sees the first day of Galway’s three-day autumn meeting with a national hunt card starting at 2.05 pm and another jumping card on Sunday, off an hour earlier at 1.05 pm followed on Monday with a flat card at 1.10 pm. Saturday also features a flat card at Leopardstown at 1.20 pm and there is a national hunt card in Wexford on Sunday starting at 12.50 pm. Horses to watch this weekend are Henry de Bromhead’s My Uncas ran a very respectable race from reserve in Roscommon last time out and is doubly entered on Sunday and Monday in Wexford. He could be worth a place or e/w bet. Stringybark Creek, who ran well at Galway Festival, is dropping in the handicap across the water and on a mark of 74 has a chance in Doncaster tomorrow. Aidan O’Brien trains eleven of the five-day declarations for Doncaster’s Futurity Trophy on Saturday, the final

British Group 1 race of the season. The Andrew Balding trained Kameko is the only non-O’Brien entry for the £200,000 contest which O’Brien has won nine times and is going for a hattrick on Saturday after the wins of Saxon Warrior and Magna Grecia respectively. Mogul, who has been trained for the race along with Innisfree, heads the betting at 4/6 and O’Brien will run two or three more. At Champions Day in Ascot last Saturday Aidan O’Brien at last added the Group 1 Champion Stakes to his CV when the mare Magical won by ¾l and 2¼l from Addeybb and the Japanese mare Deirdre. O’Brien did not rule out a return to training as a 5-Y-O for the winner. O’Brien also trained Kew Gardens to win the Group 2 Long Distance Cup and Delphina beaten by a short head in the Group 1 Champion Fillies and Mares Stakes, won twelve months ago by Magical. O’Brien now only has 2 British Group 1 races missing of his CV, Royal Ascot’s King’s Stand Stakes and the Haydock Sprint Cup. In the American Grand National at Far Hills on Saturday last year’s winner, the Gordon Elliott trained Jury Duty, finished best of the Irish in 4th place. The race went to Britain’s Brain Power trained by Nicky Henderson and ridden by Nicky de Boinville by 15l and a neck from Scorpiancer, winner of a 5-Y-O Mdn at Kildor-

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Magical and Donnacha O’Brien win Ascot’s Champion Stakes.

rery in 2014, and Moscato. The Willie Mullins trained Wicklow Brave fell at the last when in command and looking a winner but unfortunately broke his shoulder and was put down. The 10-YO dual purpose gelding won the County Hurdle at Cheltenham in 2015, the 2017 Irish Champion Hurdle at Punchestown and added a classic, the Irish St. Leger, to his wins in 2016.

Racing News

Wicklow Brave wins the Irish St Leger under Frankie Dettori.

In the flat jockey’s championship, Donnacha O’Brien, on 105 winners, leads Colin Keane by four and the apprentice title race is much closer with Andy Slattery, on 42 winners, only two ahead of Oisin Orr. Yesterday in Navan Keane recorded a double and O’Brien had to be content with one. A novel idea of a new horse welfare centre based in Castlerea Prison in County Roscommon started with Minister of State for Equality, Immigration and Integration, David Stanton turning the sod for the American-style barn last

Friday. The aim is to assist prisoners securing employment as stable staff and other positions within the equine industry on release and should be up and running in six months. Jockey Jack Kennedy has fractured his collarbone following his fall from Swordsman at Punchestown yesterday week. Kennedy’s mount fell heavily at the fourth fence in the Grade 3 Novice Chase when favourite Daly Tiger’s saddle also slipped, with jockey Mark Walsh then pulling up his mount. Victory in the end went to the Henry De Bromhead trained Jan Maat.

Point to Point Corner One meeting in the north this weekend in Loughanmore near Templepatrick Co. Antrim on Saturday starting at 1 pm. There are two meetings on Sunday at Dowth Hall on the Meath/ Louth border near Drogheda off at 12 pm and at Knockinroe near Templemore in Tipperary with a 12.30 pm start.

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

Dooner’s weekend predictions There were a couple of minor shocks last weekend as St. John’s Athletic went down 5-2 to Kilkerrin United in the Premier Division and Roscommon United were beaten 2-1 at home by Rahara Rovers in Division One. This weekend sees Connacht Cup action and a crunch showdown between Castlerea Celtic and champions St. Peter’s, who remain unbeaten after six games.

Friday, October 25th RDFL Premier Division Ballinasloe Town v St. John’s Athletic. 8.15 pm Hard to look past the hosts. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town Hanley Quarries Division Two Skyvalley Rovers B v Roscommon United B. 8.15 pm

United’s struggles look set to continue. Prediction: Skyvalley Rovers B

Saturday, October 26th RDFL Premier Division (8 pm) Castlerea Celtic v St. Peter’s FC The champions’ biggest test to date. If they’re going to drop points anywhere it could be here. Prediction: Draw Ballymoe FC v Skyvalley Rovers Home win. Prediction: Ballymoe FC

Sunday, October 27th CFA TP Brennan Cup Round Two (2 pm) Glen Celtic v Castlebar Celtic B

Home win. Prediction: Glen Celtic Colga FC v Ballaghaderreen FC Away win. Prediction: Ballaghaderreen FC Gort United v Ballinasloe Town B Home win. Prediction: Gort United Cloonfad United v Ballymote Celtic Home win. Prediction: Cloonfad United Ballina Town B v Manor United Home win. Prediction: Ballina Town B St. Cuan’s United v Iorras Aontaithe Away win. Prediction: Iorras Aontaithe RDFL Premier Division (2 pm) Moylough ’79 v Moore United Difficult one to call on this season’s form.

Soccer Results Prediction: Moylough ’79, narrowly. Boyle Celtic v Kilkerrin United Home win. Prediction: Boyle Celtic Norio’s Takeaway Division One (2 pm) Rahara Rovers v Dunmore Town Good win for Rahara last weekend but the pressure is on to follow up with three points here. Prediction: Rahara Rovers Dysart FC v Ahascragh United Home win. Prediction: Dysart FC Hanley Quarries Division Two Ballymoe FC B v Boyle Celtic B. 11 am Boyle will be hoping to keep touch with the promotion places. Prediction: Boyle Celtic B

RDFL Premier Division Shiven Rovers 1 St. Peter’s FC 3 Kilkerrin United 5 St. John’s Athletic 2 Norio’s Division One Cloonfad United 2 CP Ajax 0 Ballaghaderreen FC 0 Dysart FC 1 Roscommon United 1 Rahara Rovers 2 Ahascragh United 2 Cam Celtic 3 Hanley Quarries Division Two Ballinasloe Town B 0 Glen Celtic 3 Skyvalley Rovers B 1 St. Cuan’s United 1 Cloonfad United B 1 Ballaghaderreen FC B 1 St. John’s Athletic 6 Roscommon United B 3 New Balance FAI Junior Cup Round Three Ballinasloe Town 0 Carbury FC 0. AET (Ballinasloe Town won 4-2 on penalties) Castlerea Celtic 2 Boyle Celtic 1 MCR 4 Skyvalley Rovers 0 Merville United 5 Ballymoe FC 3. AET

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Junior and Intermediate ﬁnals a highlight! When I look back at 2019 last Sunday’s junior and intermediate football finals in Dr. Hyde Park will be among the highlights. The weather was fine, which is always a plus, but there were two great games and four outstanding teams on view. In the first game, Ballinameen came with a plan to play all-action football. There was a man in red and white always available to take possession and they carried it out to perfection. St. Brigid’s’ young team played their part but they had no answer to Charlie Ward’s team, superbly led by Dessie Carlos. It was also fantastic to see the peo-

ple of Ballinameen out on the field after the game celebrating with their heroes. That’s the beauty of the GAA and the club game in particular. There is a chance for everyone to have their day in the sun. Ballinameen’s captain Peter Keane was seriously ill just two months ago. Little did he know he would be lifting the cup alongside his teammates, neighbours and friends last Sunday. St. Brigid’s made a big contribution too and they have many talented young players who will surely feature at senior level in the future. In the intermediate final, Oran played some brilliant football for 40 minutes

but just couldn’t sustain it and Tulsk eventually found a way to reel them in. It was another mighty game. There is probably more room for improvement in Tulsk ahead of the replay and they have to be the favourites to win at the second attempt. It would be so cruel if Oran were to lose another replay, but it promises to be another great match. It’s no coincidence that the games we have seen over the past number of weeks in Dr. Hyde park have been very entertaining. The pitch is in fantastic condition and players love those conditions. It’s been a great couple of weeks for club football in the county.

Champions! It was a great day for Ballinameen supporters last Sunday as their team won the King and Moffatt Junior ‘A’ Football Championship in Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Mixed response to two-tier football

Irish hype train derailed in Japan!

Ireland crashed out at the quarter-final stage once again at the Rugby World Cup when they suffered a heavy defeat against New Zealand in Tokyo last Saturday.

It was no real surprise that Ireland lost to the All Blacks last Saturday at the Rugby World Cup but the manner of defeat was a shock. Ireland were hammered, and they had no answer to the power and skill of New Zealand. It was a very sad way for Joe Schmidt to end what was a very successful tenure for him as the Ireland head coach. But the facts of the matter are that Ireland regressed in the twelve months leading up to the World Cup. The signs were there and were largely ignored by many of the pundits and the Irish rugby media. There is more hype surrounding the Irish rugby team than any other inter-

national team that we have. Even the likes of Newstalk who have very extensive sports coverage every day of the week was well populated by cheerleaders over the past few months who ignored the train that was coming down the tracks in terms of Ireland’s form going into the tournament. Excuses were made for the terrible Six Nations performances against England and Wales and more excuses were trotted out when England humiliated Ireland in that World Cup warm-up at Twickenham. Even the loss to Japan was put down as a blip. The facts are that we were not good enough and got what we deserved. There will be a month or two with

not much comment and the hype will start again in time for the Six Nations. However, seven losing quarter-finals and counting is a terrible record for a team that is built up so much every time we go to a World Cup. In the semi-finals I am expecting New Zealand and South Africa to emerge. England will try to bully the All Blacks but they have too much variety in their game to get caught but I am expecting a very good match between the two. Wales are the constant over-achievers and they will give it everything against South Africa but the Springboks look a very strong side with a very impressive bench and that could decide it in the end.

Norwich away is the real test for United! In fairness, Manchester United put in a reasonable display against Liverpool at the weekend and I would have taken a draw before the game started. But I will withhold any great praise for United until I see how they get on against Norwich this weekend. United were always going to raise their game for Liverpool but it’s games like Norwich away that are the real test of character! Meanwhile, Roy Keane was at it again on Sunday on Sky Sports and there is no doubt about it he is box office - whether you agree with him or not! While the Manchester United and Liverpool players were waiting in the tunnel to go out on the field a number of players on each side embraced and others shook hands. Keane was apoplectic as he said: “What’s that all about? Players hugging and shaking hands, they are going out to war, into battle, it’s a load of crap if you ask me!”. He’s right you know!

The GAA will be bringing in a ‘tier two’ football championship in 2020 and there are many conflicting views about it. Most Roscommon people would of the view that it will not affect us here in this county but they are mistaken. The bottom two teams in Division Two of the league will not get into the qualifiers for the main championship if they don’t reach their provincial final. I know that it’s probably highly unlikely, but if Roscommon were to be dragged into a relegation battle it would be worrying as we have the prospect of playing Mayo in the Connacht semi-final next May. That would be a 50/50 match. The new situation will make Division Two a real dog fight now, as if it wasn’t going to be one already! The idea of a two-tier championship is a good one in my view but the GAA must take it seriously and market it properly. Players in the lower ranked counties must have something tangible to aim for. If the GAA get it right at the start it will be a success. Meanwhile, the new playing rules will be interesting when they are introduced on January 1st. The kickouts from the 20-metre line will cause no controversy. However, the advanced mark will be tough for referees to police. Was the player outside or on the 45 metre line? Did the ball travel 20 metres? How long does the player who makes the catch have to decide whether to play on or take his free? With regard to the 10-minute sin-bin, it will certainly work in big games when there are plenty of officials to rule on the time-keeping but I am not so sure it will work in club league games where there are very few neutral officials. But there is no point in shooting down the new rules before we get a chance to see them in action.

An honour to introduce 1979 heroes It was a great honour to be asked to introduce the National Football League winning team of 1979 at Dr. Hyde Park at half-time in the recent senior county final. That sunny day in May 1979 was one of the greatest days in Roscommon football history. Not only did Roscommon win the league title for the first time but they played some unbelievable football that day. They won the game by 0-15 to 1-3 and it was a display full of marvellous attacking and flowing football. Having beaten Kerry in the quarter-final and Offaly in the semi-final, it was a success on the national stage that I will never forget.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp endured a frustrating afternoon at Old Trafford last Sunday but his side struck late to rescue a point against bitter rivals Manchester United.

Note: I am running a video disco as a fundraiser for Roscommon Palliative Care this Friday night at Nancy’s Nightclub in Castle Street. Please support this worthy cause if you can. It’s €10 to get in and it should be a bit of craic!

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

SportsPeople

Honours Even! Oran and Tulsk fans at the Hyde Pictured at the drawn Mulryan Construction Intermediate Football Final between Oran and Tulsk in Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER Coman’s swimmers impress in Connacht @dan_dooner

THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner

It has been a busy few weeks for Coman’s swimmers as they took part in both the Connacht Minor Schools competition and a Connacht Regional Qualifying Meet. Ten members from the club made the short trip to the Regional Sports Centre in Athlone recently to represent their schools at the provincial Minor Schools event. Roxboro NS, Knockcroghery NS, Tarmon NS, Rahara NS, Gaelscoil de hÍde and Scoil Bhríde, Fourmilehouse, were all well represented on the day. Sinead Freeman took third place in both the 100m Freestyle and Individual Medley whilst also achieving personal best times. Jun Hwang also took bronze in both the 100m

IM and 50m Breaststroke while Ava Clyne, Pierce Fannon and Theo De Abreu also performed well. Ruairí Webb knocked a whopping twelve seconds off his previous 50m Breaststroke time and seven seconds off his 50m record. Aaron Lawrence qualified for the All-Ireland 50m Butterfly while Aoife Lavin took gold in the U-10 50m Back Crawl and narrowly missed out in the 50m Freestyle. Ciara Lally and Laura Fannon, meanwhile, were making their first appearance for their schools and they certainly impressed also. Sinead Freeman, Aoife Lavin, Jun Hwang and Aaron Lawrence will now go on to represent their schools at the All-Irelands in February of next year. Five swimmers from Coman’s also took part in the recent Connacht Regional Qualifiers in Castle-

bar, performing well in the two-day event. Róisín O’Brien made a successful return to the pool, taking four seconds off her personal best in the 100m Back Crawl. Aoife Lavin was one of only two 10-year-old girls competing in the 12 and under age group, and she finished a respectable 12th overall. Her brother Michael Lavin took silver in the 200m Back Crawl and gold in the 200m Breaststroke. Alan Kilcommons and Sinead Freeman took part in the Sunday events where Alan started the season by taking eight seconds off his PB in the 200m Freestyle and two seconds off his 50m Freestyle PB. Finally, Sinead Freeman competed in the 12 and under age group, taking a silver medal in the 200m IM and fifth place in the 100m Freestyle.

Ten swimmers from Coman’s Swimming Club recently represented their schools at the Connacht Minor Schools competition in Athlone.

People’s champions of the week

In the sporting diary .... Fundraiser for Athlone Gymnastics

Congratulations to underage handballers, Carragh Kennedy and Siobhan Treacy (Roscommon Community College), who won the 60x30 Schools Junior Doubles All-Ireland title in Clogh, Co. Kilkenny last Saturday.

Athlone Gymnastics Club will host a bag packing fundraiser at Dunnes Stores, Montree, Athlone this Friday and Saturday (25th and 26th) from 10 am to 6 pm and volunteers are required. Please text your name and preferred time slot to 083-8333171.

Halloween Open Weekend in Athlone Simon Walker, Leinster Boys’ winner 2019, pictured with Tom Judge, President of Roscommon Golf Club, Paul Cuttle and Nuala Costello, Captains of Roscommon Golf Club and Junior Convenor Michael Connaughton at the clubhouse recently.

Athlone Golf Club is hosting an Open Singles Ladies and Gents Weekend from Saturday (26th) to Monday (28th) October sponsored by Power Property. Visitor’s entry fee is €20.

The sporting brief Basketball

Super start! The Castlerea Kings made a winning start to the Lonleitros Senior Men’s Basketball League when they defeated Donegal Town last Saturday night at The Hub. A large crowd was in attendance as 50 points from Tomas Callaghan and Joseph Henry helped the Kings to a superb 78-69 win. The Castlerea Kings team was: Daniel Doherty (6), Joe Fleming (8), Tomas Callaghan (19), Josh McDermott (2), Jack Murphy, David Quinn, Sean McDermott (7), Joseph Henry (31), Michael O’Flanagan (5) and Jack Woods.

Handball

All-Ireland success! Carragh Kennedy and Siobhan Treacy (Roscommon Community College) won the 60x30 Schools Junior Doubles All-Ireland in Clogh, Co. Kilkenny last Saturday. They overcame Lauren Power and Holly Byrne (Heywood CS, Co. Laois) in the final. The win completed a hattrick of All-Irelands for Carragh this year.

Recently crowned U-14 All-Ireland champion Rory Carthy (Roscommon CBS) lost out to Kyle Jordan of Grennan College, Co. Kilkenny on a scoreline of 8-15, 7-15. Despite having just returned to handball, Roscommon CBS student Dylan Hanley almost caused an enormous upset against Eoghan McGinnity (St. McCartan’s, Co. Monaghan) in Talbot’s Inch, Co. Kilkenny. Dylan took the first 15-13 but lost the remaining games 4-15, 4-15.

Golf

New Lady Captain We tee off in Roscommon where Sandra Kelly was recently announced as the new Lady Captain. She will follow outgoing captain Nuala Costello, who impressed fellow members with her hard work in 2019. Thomas Higgins, meanwhile, was part of the Ireland U-16 panel which beat England 16.5-13.5 in Hunstanton recently. The club also congratulates that conveyor belt of young talent, Roscommon CBS, on their recent Connacht Schools Final victory. It’s the school’s third win in a row in the competition. Paul Cuttle’s Captain’s Prize to the Ladies was won by Kay Ruane with 19 points. Serena O’Farrell was runner-up,

also with 19. Other recent winners in Roscommon: Brian Feely (Sunday Competition, 39 points); Charlie Farrell and Paulie Hoare (Club Fourball); JF Hanley (Smithwicks Cup); Kay Ruane and Detta Cox (Curran Cup); Joan Moran (Ladies’ Seniors) and Des Bruen (Men’s Seniors). To Boyle next, where Tommy King was, rather aptly, crowned the winner of the final King Harmon qualifier with 38 points. He put Tom Kearney to the sword (on countback) while Lorcan Egan took gross and Michael McHale finished third. The quarter-final match-ups are: Lorcan Egan v Gerry Carty; Padraic O’Connell v David Wynne; Liam Mullaney v Michael McHale, and Sean Heslin v Brendan Gaffney. Elsewhere, Phil McWeeney, Siobhan Talbot and Dolores Mulvey won the recent Nine and Dine competition in Carrick. Carrick Ladies AGM will take place in the clubhouse at 8 pm on Friday, November 1st and all members are invited to attend. Before that there will be a Halloween Timber Draw this Sunday and a great night is promised with live music, finger food and the chance to win three, yes three, loads of timber. The Men’s Open Winter League commences in Athlone next Tuesday (29th) and the Plumbers Invitational Fourball

Boyle Golfer of the Year for 2019, Sean Heslin (left) pictured receiving his prize from Men’s Captain Seamus Gallagher at the Boyle Golf Club recently.

takes place on Monday (28th). Meanwhile, the recent Lady Captain’s Away Day to Portarlington was a great success with Cathryn Mannion, Linda Corbett and Margaret Egan winning the Scramble. Other recent winners in Athlone: Aidan Byrne (Wednesday Open, 37 points); Bernie Watson (97 Club, 25 points); Micheal Healy (AWGS Outing, 29 points); Padraig Geraghty (18-hole Stableford, 42 points).

Darts

League resumes The Hannon’s Hotel sponsored Roscommon Darts league will commence this Friday with the following fixtures: Flanagan’s v McDermott’s; Cosy Bar v An Bothar Rua; Dalton’s v The Sideline Bar; The Hollywood v Molly’s. The Holly Tree have a bye.

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

Tulsk favourites for tasty rematch! Mulryan Construction IFC Final Replay Oran v Tulsk Lord Edwards on Saturday in Dr. Hyde Park at 4 pm  SEAMUS DUKE

Oran must be wondering just what they have to do to win an intermediate title. Last Sunday their young team led Tulsk a merry dance until they ran out of steam and the more experienced Tulsk side finally reeled them in. The same questions will be asked of both sides in this mouthwatering replay on Saturday. Having seen Tulsk play a number of times in this championship, last Sunday was by far their poorest display. They were like a rabbit caught in the headlights as Oran’s young guns ran at them and caused them all sorts of problems. I would say that Gerry Lohan, his selectors, and players are

thanking their lucky stars that they still in this championship. One thing is certain: if Tulsk don’t up their game considerably on Saturday they are facing the prospect of coming away emptyhanded once again. Last Sunday too many of the players who had served them well all year let them down and they will all have to step up to the plate if they want to win. Oran, on the other hand, seem to thrive on adversity. Gearoid Keenan lasted only eleven minutes last Sunday but on came Thomas Fetherston to play a huge role in their performance. However the sight of him limping off before the end of the game is a huge worry for them going

into this replay. Oran are a team laced with incredibly talented young players but every team needs experienced players to drive them on. If Gearoid Keenan and Thomas Fetherston were to be ruled out on Saturday it would be a huge blow to Billy Donnellan’s men. Meanwhile, Tulsk will need to restrict the supply line to the fleet-footed Oran attack or they are going to be in trouble once again. Some of the Oran attacking play last Sunday was out of the top drawer and Tulsk will have to be far sharper in defence or that young Oran attack will run riot again. Ciaran Lawless, Darragh Walsh, Charlie Carthy and James Fitzpatrick may be

BREAKING BALL Short Passes… Champion 15 nominations Roscommon hurlers, Cathal Dolan and Padraig Kelly, are among 45 nominees for the 2019 Champion 15 Team. The players were nominated for their outstanding performances in Roscommon’s Christy Ring Cup campaign earlier this year. This is the first year that a selection of 45 players has been chosen from the Ring, Rackard and Meagher competitions. The new selection process has introduced player and coach feedback and has been finalised by an independent selection committee of journalists and referees.

Hurling fundraiser in Athleague Coiste Iomána/Roscommon Hurling will honour the All-Ireland winning U-16 and Minor hurling teams from 1969. A fundraising night is taking place in The Bridge House, Athleague this Friday night (25th). A table quiz will take place at 9.30 pm (tables of four €40) followed by an auction. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

GAA Results Leydon Brothers AFL Division Three Relegation Play-off Pádraig Pearses 2-10 Western Gaels 0-6 Mulryan Construction IFC Final Oran 2-10 Tulsk 2-10 King and Moffatt Building Service JAFC Final Ballinameen 2-11 St. Brigid’s 0-11 King and Moffatt Building Services JBFC Semi-Final Fuerty 0-11 Oran 0-8 Boyle 3-7 Strokestown 1-13

Fixtures Saturday, October 26th Leydon Brothers AFL Division Three Final (Tansey Cup) At St. Dominic’s: St. Dominic’s v St. Brigid’s. 4 pm Mulryan Construction IFC Final Replay At Dr. Hyde Park: Oran v Tulsk Lord Edwards. 4 pm King and Moffatt Building Services JBFC Semi-Final At Abbey Park: Boyle v Strokestown. 4 pm

Ladies update - Fixtures Saturday, October 26th Hugo Loonam Motors Minor Football Championship Group B St. Dominic’s v St. Brigid’s Group C St. Ciaran’s v Michael Glavey’s

Sunday, October 27th Connacht LGFA Senior Club Championship Final At Enfield: Kilkerrin-Clonberne v Kilbride. 2 pm

young, but they can play and they know where the posts are. Once again this final is on a knife-edge. Prior to the drawn game I was of the opinion that Oran’s injuries and absentees would just be too much for them to be able to withstand. But I reckoned without their superb young attacking players and inspirational leaders like Mike Dwyer and Thomas Fetherston. But Tulsk are a good side and they will know that they can improve hugely on last Sunday’s display. If they have learned their lessons from last Sunday they can inflict more final pain on Oran. Last Sunday’s game was a cracking encounter and this Saturday’s

Up in the air! Oran and Tulsk will do battle this Saturday in the Mulryan Construction Intermediate Football Championship Final Replay at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

promises to be the same. There won’t be much be-

tween them but Tulsk can improve sufficiently to

Footballer with Rossie links set for AFL Sligo footballer, Luke Towey, whose father Mark is of St. Croan’s stock, has been signed on a two-year international rookie contract by the AFL side Gold Coast Suns. The twenty-year-old St. Molaise Gaels man will link up with Ballaghaderreen man and Suns vice-captain, Pearse Hanley, next Monday for the start of preseason. Luke told the Suns’ website he was delighted with the opportunity. “It’s kind of surreal, it’s been a long process going back over 12 months but when I got the call to come over to Australia, I was absolutely delighted for the opportunity,” Towey said. “To come over and trial with this great club and see first-hand the AFL environment and culture was unreal. “The group of lads, the coaches and all the facilities are all top class and I’m looking forward to being a part of the club’s future”.

edge it by a few points. Prediction: Tulsk

Pearses claim underage honours! Pádraig Pearses were victorious in the U-16 Division One Football Championship Final on a scoreline of 0-11 to 1-7 against neighbours Clann na nGael in Kiltoom last Saturday. Late points from Luke Fehily and Jack Tumulty saw them edge past the Johnstown side, who had looked the better team in the opening half. The impressive John Shine scored Clann’s only goal in the 20th minute as they led by three points at the break. The third quarter saw Clann remain in front before Tumulty levelled matters in the closing stages. An Ian Harney point regained Clann’s lead before Fehily and Tumulty struck in injury-time. Meanwhile, Elphin-Ballinameen overcame Western Gaels on scoreline of 3-10 to 1-9 in a splendid Division Three final in Loughglynn. The Gaels’ poor shooting was to cost them dear as two goals from John Finnerty, and one from Adam Dwyer gave the amalgamation a winning platform.

Pictured is the Kilbride U-16 Ladies team and management who won the Roscommon LGFA Division 2B Championship recently.

Four Roads can reach Connacht decider Connacht Club IHC Semi-Final: Four Roads v Tooreen on Sunday in Athleague at 2 pm  SEAMUS DUKE

Having got their hands on the Mickey Cunniffe Cup for the first time in four years a couple of weeks ago, Four Roads have a chance of a Connacht final appearance when they face old rivals Tooreen in the semi-final on Sunday. There would appear to be little between these two teams but Tooreen have been less than impressive in their run to the Mayo title this year and in the final they had only two points to spare against

Castlebar Mitchels. They have some very wellknown names in their team with the lines of Cathal Freeman, Fergal and Shane Boland, Sean Kenny and Stephen Coyne ever-present, and they will travel to Athleague with confidence. Remember it was Tooreen who broke the Galway stranglehold on this title in 2017, winning the title. No Roscommon team has managed that feat thus far. Four Roads will have to be at their best if they want to ad-

vance. Jamie Lawlor, Cormac Coyle and Martin McLoughlin will have the task of shackling the Tooreen full-forward line while Micheal Kelly will be hoping that his good form continues in the half-back line alongside Johnny Moran and Jack Donnelly. Shane Curley and Conor Coyle have been very impressive at midfield for the Roscommon champions while up front Cathal Dolan will be the ‘go to’ man for the placed ball. Padraig Kelly has been playing great hurling this year and

Noel Fallon has been a towering presence at centre forward. Brendan Mulry has been a very effective target man this year with James Cunniffe and Andy Lawlor hoping to get the vital scores in the corners. If Four Roads can bring the intensity and teamwork that they displayed in the county final to the table on Sunday they can edge out Tooreen and make it to the Connacht final. They should be good enough to prevail. Prediction: Four Roads

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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Pictured at training last Friday evening in preparation for Kilbride’s Connacht Club Ladies Final against Kilkerrin-Clonberne this Sunday were members of the Kilbride Ladies team. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Kilbride face daunting task this Sunday Connacht LGFA Club Championship Senior Final Kilbride v Kilkerrin-Clonberne on Sunday in Enﬁeld at 2 pm  SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon champions Kilbride face a daunting task on Sunday when they take on the Galway champions Kilkerrin/Clonberne in this year’s Connacht final. Kilbride will be wanting to banish memories of the last time the sides met in last year’s championship when the Galway girls were the easy winners. Kilkerrin-Clonberne already defeated Mayo side Carnacon in the semi-final two weeks ago, winning by 4-9 to 2-4 and are a very accomplished side. Nicola and Louise Ward are club and county players of distinction and when you add in Olivia Divilly, Lynsey Noone and Siobhan Fahy, it is a star-studded line-up that will be very hard to defeat. Kilbride are now a very experienced side and they will be underdogs on Sunday, which will suit them fine. Tara Taylor, Rochelle Mullaney, Fiona Tully, Siobhan Tully, Alice Kelly and Sinead Clabby are vastly experienced and the prolific young star Aisling Hanly has added a further sharpness to their attack. However, the cold reality is that this KilkerrinClonberne team will be eyeing up an All-Ireland senior title this year and that’s the level we are talking about this Sunday. Hopefully the gap between the teams will not be as wide as it was last year but anything other than a comfortable Kilkerrin- Pictured at training last Friday evening in preparation for Kilbride’s Connacht Club Ladies Final against Clonberne win would be a shock. Kilkerrin-Clonberne this Sunday were Siobhan Tully, Rochelle Mullaney (Captain), Tara Taylor and Alice Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh Prediction: Kilkerrin-Clonberne

Lennon: ‘We need to be playing these games’  SEAMUS DUKE

Kilbride manager, Ollie Lennon, knows exactly what’s ahead of his charges this Sunday in Enfield but is looking forward to the challenge. Speaking to People Sport on Wednesday, he said: “We don’t have any injuries and everyone will be ready for the game on Sunday. We have trained hard since winning the county final replay and there has been an added buzz since we knew who our opposition would be this Sunday. “Look, we know what’s ahead of us on Sunday. These (Kilkerrin-Clonberne) are a very formidable outfit and they will have an Al-Ireland title on their minds, never mind a Connacht title. But if we want to progress we need to be playing the better teams and this will be a huge test for our girls. “We have plenty of experience in our side now and if we can play the football that we are capable of we can do well. We are looking forward to the challenge and hopefully we can do ourselves justice on the day”.

Wishing Kilbride Ladies all the best in the final this weekend!

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Red Parrot Main Street, Roscommon Sunday, October 27th

The Kilbride management team pictured at training last Friday evening ahead of Sunday’s Connacht Final against Kilkerrin-Clonberne. From left to right: Ollie Lennon, Michael Murray, Michael Tully and Padraig O’Beirne. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

DJ Paul Clabby

Don’t miss the fun!

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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Brilliant Ballinameen storm to junior title! King and Moffatt Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Final

BALLINAMEEN

2-11

ST. BRIGID’S

0-11

 SEAMUS DUKE

Playing some wonderful football, Ballinameen came to Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday and swept to the 2019 junior title in superb style. Charlie Ward’s team were in command from the opening exchanges and they withstood a late mini-rally from Brigid’s to land a title that they last won in 2010. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Ballinameen captain Peter Keane lifted the cup after he had struggled with illness earlier in the year and even the most ardent Brigid’s supporter would wish him the very best of luck as he continues his recovery. The manner of this victory will surely be a big help! On a perfect day for football, Brigid’s came into the game as the favourites having impressed during the campaign, but inspired by Dessie Carlos, it was Ball-

inameen who grew into the game much better as it progressed. Goals either side of half-time saw them pull away from the Kiltoom men. Indeed apart from Carlos, inspirational captain Peter Keane played a major part as did midfielder Eoghan Keaveney, and corner forward Liam Kelly who scored both goals. When the Ballinameen celebrations turn to reflections on a great day for their club they will also be thankful to former Roscommon player and goalkeeper Gary Hanly who made at least three outstanding saves and was an inspirational presence in the Ballinemeen defence throughout. The first quarter was evenly contested, and by the 17th minute it was 0-3 apiece, Carlos scoring two frees for Ballinameen added to a fine effort from Peter Flanagan. Brigid’s had

points from Kealan Byrne, Ciaran O’Reilly and John Cunningham (a free). In the 17th minute Hanly made the first of his spectacular saves when he palmed away a piledriver from Conor Quinn, and although Byrne was on target with another point to put Brigid’s into the lead in the 20th minute, Ballinameen struck for their first goal two minutes later. Finbar McDermot made a searing run through the centre and while his shot for goal was brilliantly saved by Cormac Sheehy, Liam Kelly was following up to net the rebound. Ballinameen tails were up now, and Carlos and Eoghan Keaveney added to their total with superb points from play. In the 29th minute Brigid’s midfielder Billy McDonnell was the latest to have a go at beating Gary Hanley but once again he was equal to the shot, and when Keaveney grabbed another fine point in injury-time, Ballinameen led by five. A late pointed free from distance from Brigid’s’ best player Jack McDonnell, saw the teams go in at half-time with the score at Ballinameen 1-6

Action from last Sunday’s King and Moffat Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Final between Ballinameen and St. Brigid’s at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

St. Brigid’s 0-5. Ballinemeen began the new half where they left off, and their second goal arrived in the 34th minute. Liam Kelly won possession and he seemed to have lost his footing but recovered to blast to the net. When James Tansey and Dessie Carlos followed up with points from play by the 38th minute Ballinameen were nine points ahead with 38 minutes gone. Jack McDonnell pointed for struggling Brigid’s in the 40th minute before Hanly was called upon once again to save from Kealan Byrne. McDonnell once again pointed for Brigid’s but two further points from Man of the Match Carlos (frees) saw the nine-point margin restored by the 48th minute. In the final fourteen minutes of playing time Brigid’s outscored Ballinameen by 0-4 to 0-1 but the mountain had already been climbed and Ballinameen had the title in the bag. The final whistle brought scenes of wild celebration as the people of the Ballinameen area raced onto the field to celebrate their heroes. Charlie Ward, who

has been involved in Roscommon GAA for decades, smiled broadly as he accepted the congratulations of the red and white clad supporters. He has done a superb job along with his management team. But the real heart-warming story of the day was the sight of Peter Keane lifting the cup. The man who had an almighty heath scare

earlier in the year was back where he wanted to be. For Brigid’s it was just not to be on the day. They have a fine young team and they will surely be back again. Cormac Sheehy, Niall Grehan, Jack McDonnell, Kealan Byrne and sub Eamon Flanagan were prominent but they just had no answer to a super Ballinameen outfit on the day.

Teams and Scorers Ballinameen: Gary Hanly; Ian Finneran, Conor Egan, Peter Keane; Peter Flanagan (0-1), Mark Ward (0-1), David Wynne Snr.; Aidan Cunningham, Eoghan Keaveney (0-2); Dessie Carlos (0-6, 4 frees), James Tansey (0-1), David Wynne Jnr., Shane O’Neill, Finbar McDermott, Liam Kelly (2-0). James Lavin for Tansey (55), Andrew Fallon for Egan (60). St. Brigid’s: Cormac Sheehy; Shane Furey, David Nestor, Darren Carroll; John Cunningham (0-1, free), Niall Grehan, George O’Hara (0-2); Billy McDonnell, Kealan Beirne (0-2); Conor Quinn, Jack McDonnell (0-4, 3 frees), Eddie Egan; Tom O’Carroll (0-1), Cian McDonnell, Ciaran O’Reilly (0-1). Subs: Eamon Flanagan for C McDonnell (27), Ian O’Rourke for Quinn (h/t), Conor McNiece for Cunningham and Robbie Dolan for Byrne (44), Colin Daly for J McDonnell (58). Referee: Michael Brehony

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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The Ballinameen players, backroom team and supporters celebrate at Dr. Hyde Park following their King and Moffatt Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Final win over St. Brigid’s last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Captain Keane happy to be back leading Ballinameen captain Peter Keane was understandably pleased following Sunday’s Junior final win over St. Brigid’s at Dr. Hyde Park. “It was fantastic to be here today. It’s only

two months since I was diagnosed (with illness). To be back leading the team to win this trophy today is unbelievable to be honest. “The last three or four games we have

played really well. We stuck to the gameplan and we knew what we were doing and there were no question marks over the performance. “We played a sweeper and there was a man

available to take possession of the ball all the time and it went great for us on the day. But they had two or three great goal chances in the first half and our goalkeeper did great and we are very thankful to him,” he said.

Ward: ‘Proud day and fantastic year!’ Ballinameen manager, Charlie Ward, was an extremely proud man at the full-time whistle following last Sunday’s King and Moffatt Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Final at Dr. Hyde Park. “I am so proud of that group of lads out there today. They are some bunch - young and old. We have a great mixture and we are so happy to be able to go

back to Ballinameen tonight as junior champions. “I am not a lover of a defensive style of football but in today’s game you have to have a little bit of a defensive mindset but the big thing with me is that if the opposition don’t have the ball there is nothing they can do about it. It’s all about possession. “Overall, it’s been a fantastic year for the club. We

Stat Attack Wides: Ballinameen 5 (2 Yellow cards:

first half ) St. Brigid’s 5 (3

have developed the pitch and dressing rooms and now we are up to intermediate football and I hope we can stay there. I think we have the talent to do that. “I just want to thank all the backroom team in the club. This day is for them as well. It’s fantastic to see Peter Keane lifting the cup and it’s a brilliant day all round,” he said.

first half )

Snr.) Keaveney, David Wynne Ballinameen 2 (Eoghan St. Brigid’s 0

Black cards: None Red cards: None ameen 2-7 St. Brigid’s 0-7 Scores from Play: Ballin e Carlos (Ballin Man of the Match: Dessi

ameen)

Ballinameen captain Peter Keane lifts the cup following his side’s King and Moffatt Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Final win over St. Brigid’s at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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Play it again! O’ROURKE STRIKES LATE TO SAVE TULSK Mulryan Construction IFC Final

TULSK

2-10

ORAN

2-10

 SEAMUS DUKE

Tulsk’s Thomas O’Rourke kicked a spectacular free in injury-time of the IFC Final against Oran at Dr. Hyde Park to force a replay. Pic: Mick McCormack

Incredibly, for the third time in four years a decider involving Oran ended all square and this match was no less enthralling than the previous two. In fact, it was probably even more dramatic and for the neutral it was a tremendous contest played in perfect weather conditions. When the hugely talented Darragh Walsh kicked a spectacular 35-metre point for Oran in the fifth minute of injury-time to put his side ahead, it looked like Oran’s wait for a first title since 1997 had come to an end. However, there was still time for Tulsk to go downfield where Thomas O’Rourke pointed a free to ensure they’d have to do it all again this Saturday. There is no doubt that Tulsk will be the happier side. In fact, they probably got out of jail as Oran played most of the football but the maroon and whites hung on and got a share of the spoils. When lion-hearted Mike Dwyer kicked an inspirational point for Oran in the 38th minute Billy Donnellan’s men led the pre-match favourites by ten points, and were full value for that lead as well. Some of the football they had played in that opening 40 minutes was scintillating. But injuries, and an improvement in Tulsk’s play saw Oran wilt, and the momentum swung towards Gerry Lohan’s side as the second half went on. With a number of Oran players injured or doubtful, Tulsk took to the field as the hot favourites to break their championship duck. But despite starting with three 18-year-olds and three 19-year-olds, Oran ripped into Tulsk from the opening minutes and played some of the finest attacking football that this writer has seen in many years on the Roscommon club scene. With James Regan, Mike Dwyer, Gearoid Keenan (and after him Thomas Fetherston) lording the midfield exchanges, there was plenty of possession for Oran’s quicksilver young forwards and they lapped it up showing for the ball brilliantly, and repeatedly beating their markers to claim superb accurate passes that were being put in front of them. Tulsk were stunned as this talented Oran side ran rings around them defensively, and not surprisingly the scores began to pile up. By the 23rd minute it was 2-5 to 0-1. Ciaran

Roscommon People Friday 25 October 2019

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Action from last Sunday’s Mulryan Construction IFC Final between Tulsk and Oran at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Lawless, Charlie Carthy, Darragh Walsh and James Fitzpatrick had the run of Hyde Park and it was fantastic to watch. The goals arrived within sixty seconds of each other. In the fifth minute Ciaran Lawless blasted home after a brilliant run from Darragh Walsh and a minute later Charlie Carthy looked to have lost possession but steadied himself before putting the ball in the top corner for another spectacular score. Tulsk were like a swimmer struggling with the current and gasping for air as the fleet-footed Oran youngsters played ducks and drakes with them. And while Tulsk gave themselves a glimmer of hope with three points from Robbie Kelly and two from Thomas O’Rourke (1 free) in the last five minutes of the first half, there was still eight points between them: Oran 2-6 Tulsk 0-4. When Oran came out and kicked the opening two scores of the second half from Ciaran Casey and Mike Dwyer, it looked like curtains for Tulsk. But they made several switches and eventually they began to get some traction. Indeed some of the

Tulsk subs made a huge contribution to their revival. The comeback started in the 40th minute when Padraig Scott’s delivery was fisted to the Oran net by Daniel Connolly and points from Callum Fahey and David Coyne reduced the gap to five by the 46th minute. James Fitzpatrick lifted the siege with a wonderful point for Oran in the 51st minute and with less than ten minutes to play there was still a gap of six. But the Rockfield men were tiring now. They had lost Gearoid Keenan early on to injury and his replacement Thomas Fetherston (who had played brilliantly), was also struggling. The supply lines into that lethal attack were drying up. Tulsk kept coming. Thomas O’Rourke converted two frees, and in the 56th minute Tadgh O’Rourke burst through and flashed the ball over from close range to reduce the gap to three. And just when it looked like Oran would hang on, a late desperate Tulsk attack involving Tadgh O’Rourke and Daniel Connolly saw Callum Fahey finish high into the

Oran net from close range. The drama wasn’t over yet however as young Darragh Walsh swung over a spectacular point in the fifth minute of injury-time to put Oran in front once more. Tulsk had just about enough time for one final attack and when they were awarded a free 30 metres out Thomas O’Rourke pointed to send it to a replay. A great score under pressure. For a Tulsk side that was in terrible trouble for 40 minutes, Ryan Galvin was outstanding, David Coyne put in a huge shift at midfield while Thomas O’Rourke and subs Daniel Connolly and Callum Fahey were also excellent. Oran were best served by veteran Mike Dwyer who was outstanding all through, goalkeeper Mikey Monaghan, Kieran Whyte, Thomas Fetherston, Darragh Walsh, Ciaran Lawless and Charlie Carthy were also superb. Have Oran missed the boat and can Tulsk ever play as poorly again? Some of those questions that will be answered in the replay. One thing is for certain: no one will be writing off Oran. It’s all to play for.

Teams and Scorers Tulsk: Regan Fahey; Niall McNamara, Darragh O’Rourke, Stephen Lennon; Evan Flynn, Gerry Galvin, Ryan Galvin; Tadgh O’Rourke (0-1), David Coyne (0-1); Robbie Kelly (0-1), Thomas O’Rourke (0-5, 4 frees), Cathal O’Rourke; Jack Conlon, Padraig Scott (0-1), Timmy Fitzmaurice. Subs: Fergal Moylan for D O’Rourke (b/c 16), Daniel Connolly (1-0) for Fitzmaurice (35), Callum Fahey (1-1) for Conlon (41), David Carlton for Scott (49), Liam Cribbin for Kelly (53), Dara Jones for Coyne (60). Oran: Mikey Monaghan; John Martin, Colin Walsh, Kevin Concannon; Eoghan Grady, Mike Dwyer (0-1), Kieran Whyte; James Regan, Gearoid Keenan; Ciaran Casey (0-1), Ciaran Lawless (1-1), Ray Farrell; James Fitzpatrick (0-2), Darragh Walsh (0-3, 2 frees), Charlie Carthy (1-2). Subs: Thomas Fetherston for Keenan (11), Jack Earley for Farrell (30 +2), Paul Kenny for Casey (45), Shane Casey for Grady and Eamon Kenny for Fetherston (59). Referee: Kevin Naughton

Teams and Scorers Wides: Red cards: Black cards: Yellow cards: Scores from play: Attendance Man of the Match:

Tulsk 4 (3 first half) Oran 6 (3 first half) None Tulsk 1 (Darragh O’Rourke 16) Oran 0 Oran 1 (John Martin) Tulsk 0 Tulsk: 2-5 Oran 2-7 1,500 approximately Mike Dwyer (Oran)

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