2019.12.13 by Roscommon People

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13 December 2019

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The Local Paper iles and athrooms Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

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Town ‘cannot be held to ransom’ Cummins wants Mart to move!  PAUL HEALY

“start a conversation” about the need for the mart to move to an alternative site. A number of years ago, the mart was on the verge of relocating to a new site at Emoe, Roscommon, but the proposed move did not proceed. Speaking to the Roscommon People earlier this week, the straight-talking Council chief said the people of Roscommon cannot be “held to ransom by the inappropriate use of strategi-

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cally important land”. Mr. Cummins said the area where the mart is located (Circular Road) has to be freed of traffic congestion and the “crying of sentient animals”. In an intervention which will place an immediate public spotlight back on a long-running saga, Mr. Cummins says it is time, once and for all, to deal with the location of Roscommon Mart. See page 5.

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The Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Mr. Eugene Cummins, has called for Roscommon Mart to be relocated.

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Spouse Inheritance Rights My husband passed away recently. I understand that he made a will prior to his death and he left his large farm to his nephew. The farm was in his name only. Our home was also in his name and he left me with just a life interest in my home and after my death it will also pass to his nephew. I am very disappointed and I feel ill-treated. Is there anything I can do? The law governing wills, namely the Succession Act, 1965, provides unique protection for spouses of the deceased in Ireland. You refer to a will and I am assuming that your late husband’s will is valid. You are entitled to one-half of your late husband’s estate if he died having made a valid will and he had no children. You are entitled to one-third of your late husband’s estate if he died having made a valid will and he had children. This entitlement is called a legal right share. The legal right share ranks in priority after the rights of creditors of the deceased and ahead of any other beneficiary. You do not have to go to court to get your entitlement as the executor of his estate is obliged to grant this share to you where applicable. You should contact your Solicitor immediately to obtain legal advice as strict time limits apply in respect of claiming your inheritance share. I should also mention that a surviving spouse may cease to be entitled to a legal right share in a number circumstances to include legal separation or divorce. It would be usual for a spouse to renounce their legal right share as part of the terms of a divorce or legal separation agreement following the dissolution of a marriage. Contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham dedicated Wills & Inheritance Law Department in confidence for advice specific to your situation. 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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e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Well, you’re in good humour… Yeah, not bad! Not bad…you’re buzzing! What has you so happy? The election! It’s so exciting! It’s months away…and it’s not THAT exciting! No, not OUR election…the UK election! It’s today! Oh for God’s sake, it’s been boring! No, it’s been…er…fascinating. The debates… There were hardly any debates! I mean debates about debates! I definitely saw one debate on Sky News about whether or not there should be a debate with all leaders… Mmmn… Then I saw a debate about whether or not Boris Johnson should give an interview to Andrew Neil… Oh he’s a wily old fox… Boris? No, Andrew Neil. Any more…debates? Well, there was a debate the other night about one of the TV channels placing an empty chair where Boris should have been…it was great! Oh this is ridiculous! Debates, non-debates, not talking to Andrew Neil, empty chairs…this is worse than our crowd! Then there was the debate on Channel 4… did you see it? No! I was bored with the UK election! I didn’t see any of your silly debates! No, this one was great…there were a few of the leaders of the smaller parties there… plus Jeremy Corbyn…and two blocks of ice! They were drinking? That beats Banagher! Vodka and ice? Gin and tonic?

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No! Two blocks of ice where Boris and the other smooth chap SHOULD have been… Andrew Neil? No! What do you call the loudmouth who caused Brexit? BORIS! No! Nigel Farage! You’re not with me… I won’t be with you much longer if you don’t start talking sense… The point is…there was a UK election debate on Channel 4, and Boris and Nigel Farage shunned it, so the producers put two melting blocks of ice where Boris and Nigel should have been!

Why? It was a debate on Climate Change. How did Boris and Nigel react? Eh…a chilly reaction from Boris, and Nigel was very heated about it. I see what you did there…Climate change…chilly and heated, very good. Can we switch the subject? Okay…I’ll chill. (They both stare into their pints). Anything else to talk about? Yeah…what do you think RTE or Virgin Media should put in the studio if Leo or Micheál didn’t turn up? That’s not switching the subject! Well, at least it’s switching channels… I dunno, what do you suggest? Maybe a portrait of Kylie Minogue where Leo should be…and a pound of butter for Micheál. A pound of butter? Yeah…sure butter wouldn’t melt in his mouth! I don’t think the UK election was very exciting, and I’m not sure ours will be either! It will be different next year, when I’m running for high office, and you’re my Director of Elections! Don’t drag that old chestnut up again, please don’t spoil my Christmas! Anyways, will we have two more… until next week? Next week? I’ll see you here tomorrow! Why? The election results! It’s gonna be great! All those graphs and swings…and Andrew Neil…

PIC OF THE WEEK: Scenes from Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music at the Town Hall Theatre, Glenamaddy. Pics: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The ‘Premature soccer awards’ Award Did Son Heung-min score the goal of the season with his remarkable Messi-esque solo run and finish for Spurs against Burnley? Have Liverpool ended the long famine? Could Leeds actually be about to…(Editor: stop it now, no more premature soccer awards!)

Our Alternative Awards The ‘Idiots of the Week’ Award If it wasn’t so serious, we’d take a bit more pleasure in labelling them ‘heartless thieves’… The Sunday Independent reported on the theft of a defibrillator which had been installed beside a school in Drogheda.

What we liked… We liked the ambition and positivity behind the launch on Monday of the new ‘Rossie Global Strategy’. Council-led, ‘Roscommon Bound’ is a strategy which aims to maximise links between County Roscommon and the ‘Global Roscommon Family’. Monday’s launch was told that there are 945,000 people around the world who have Roscommon roots. We report on the launch in this week’s issue.

What we didn’t like…

We were saddened and disturbed by the findings of a report which suggest that children as young as 12 years of age are being inducted into organised crime gangs in Dublin.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Countdown to Roscommon Drama Festival 2020 Adjudicator for the Roscommon Drama Festival 2020…Darragh Smith.

The Roscommon Drama Festival, which takes place from March 6th to 14th 2020, is widely regarded as one of the best nationally. This festival showcases the very best of Irish amateur drama both in its open and confined sections with groups from all over Ireland competing for the coveted awards. The festival this year was a tremendous success for the hard-working committee with Bridge Drama Group from Wexford winning the open competition with ‘Brighton Beach Memoirs’ by Neil Simon, while Holycross/Ballycahill were the winners of the confined section with their production of ‘The Beauty Queen of Leenane’ by Martin McDonagh. A notable feature of the festival is the number of award winners who have gone on to achieve success at national level. The festival also incorporates an an-

nual children’s story-writing competition. Four of the programme’s plays are made available to the primary schools in the area and students in fifth and sixth classes are encouraged to write an essay or a story on any one of them. This has proven to be very popular and helped to cultivate an interest in drama among the children themselves. The adjudicator in 2020 is Darragh Smith. He is based in Mullagh, Co. Cavan and comes with a wide range of experience. He is well-known as an actor, drama facilitator and adjudicator. The festival will be formally launched at a reception in Áras an Chontae on Wednesday, February the 26th, where the winners of the story writing competition will also be presented with their awards. Next year’s programme is designed to live up to the high

standard of the past, with a variety of plays covering a wide range of human emotions. Groups from all over Ireland are taking part in both the open and confined sections, and it promises to be one of the best yet. If it’s drama you crave, then the Roscommon Drama Festival is the place to be. This festival has gone from strength to strength over the years thanks to a very energetic committee, a supportive public, the business community and the valued support of Roscommon County Council and the ‘Roscommon LEADER Partnership’. Tickets are on sale at the Arts Centre in Roscommon, which provides a wonderful location for the festival. They are priced at €15 with a concession of €13 for each evening performance. A special five-night ticket costs €60 with a season ticket costing €95. They would make an ideal Christmas gift for the special one in your life.

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Congratulations to two local ladies who were centrally involved in the recent production of the Limerick Voice 2019, an award-winning publication put together by the fourth year and MA students of Journalism at University of Limerick. Editior of the publication is Nicole Glennon, (pictured left) from Strokestown, while Mairéad Cleary, who was the Podcast Editor, is from Lanesboro. Speaking at the launch of Limerick Voice 2019, Ms. Glennon said the mission statement for this year’s project

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was to “inform, engage and inspire the people of Limerick” with thought-provoking and innovative content across a range of media platforms. This is the first year the Voice has had a podcast editor. Mairéad Cleary produced two weekly podcasts which were available on a range of platforms including Stitcher and Spotify. The project has been shortlisted for many national media awards and last year the Voice was named Newspaper of the Year at the National Student Media Awards.

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Roscommon students graduate Roscommon students Eimear Daly and Amanda Skelly were amongst the 750 graduates who qualified in Primary or Post-Primary teaching at the recent annual Hibernia College conferring ceremony, which was held at Dublin’s Convention Centre.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Athleague/Fuerty Parishes invite you to join them in a

TRIDUUM OF PRAYER IN PREPARATION FOR CHRISTMAS

The Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Mr. Eugene Cummins, has called for Roscommon Mart to be relocated.

Cummins calls for ‘conversation’ to start on moving Roscommon Mart  PAUL HEALY

The Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council has called for Roscommon Mart to be relocated as quickly as possible so that the county town can be further developed. Eugene Cummins says it is time to “start a conversation” about the need for the mart to move to an alternative site. A number of years ago, the mart was on the verge of relocating to a new site at Emoe, Roscommon, but the proposed move did not proceed. Speaking to the Roscommon People earlier this week, the straight-talking Council chief said the people of Roscommon cannot be “held to ransom by the inappropriate use of strategically important land”. Mr. Cummins said the area where the mart is located (Circular Road) has to be

freed of traffic congestion and the “crying of sentient animals”. In an intervention which will place an immediate public spotlight back on a longrunning saga, Mr. Cummins says it is time, once and for all, to deal with the location of Roscommon Mart. Elaborating on the speech he delivered at the launch of a new Global Rossies Strategy on Monday, Mr. Cummins said that steps have to be taken to prepare for a “more connected” town. He said that the county town will not be the same in the future as it was in the past, with “every shop premises’ occupied”. On the issue of the mart, Mr. Cummins was blunt: “It needs to be relocated… you cannot have sentient animals crying there…an alternative site needs to be found”. He said Roscommon County Council does not need one square inch of the site on

A message from Cllr Anthony Waldron When you’re at home in Roscommon this Christmas… …think of how you can help…

SAVE & PROTECT jobs here… and help create more jobs Hundreds of Roscommon people will be returning to Roscommon from different parts of Ireland – and abroad – over the festive season I am urging these Roscommon people to consider the timely Christmas and New Year gift they can give their county when they are back home Are you purchasing a property or land abroad? • If so, why not engage the services of a solicitor/auctioneer/ insurance broker in Roscommon? • Support local fundraising lotteries during your seasonal stay • Consider making purchases locally before you leave Roscommon to return home

A warm welcome and Happy Christmas to all returning Rossies

Contact: Anthony

Tel. 086 786 6774 Email: anthonywaldron@gmail.com

which the mart is currently located, but the people of the county do need it. “We need to have a model (for our county town) that is not bound by the shackles of the past. We need to embrace the future… that site (where the mart stands) needs to be opened up for the public…maybe as a park, maybe for a ‘high end’ business”. Calling for a conversation to be started on the issue of the mart being relocated, Mr. Cummins said that the people cannot be held to ransom by the inappropriate use of strategically important land. Asked if there have been behind-thescenes moves to resolve a saga that has lasted for many years, Mr. Cummins said: “I’ve initiated (the conversation)…we need action now. We need the mart to move to an alternative site. Everything has a value…the land is worth what the market dictates”. Global Rossies launch: Page 19

Conducted by FR. DENIS LUDDY C.Ss.R. St. Patrick’s Church, ATHLEAGUE 17th December, 10 am and 7 pm The Church of the Assumption, CASTLECOOTE/FUERTY 18th December, 10 am and 7 pm St. Patrick’s Church, ATHLEAGUE 19th December, 10 am and 7 pm Fr. Eugene, Sr. Christina and the Pastoral Council would like to wish all parishioners and friends a Happy and Holy Christmas and a Peaceful 2020 ALL ARE WELCOME TO JOIN US IN THIS EVENT.

Cór Comáin Christmas Concert in Strokestown Cór Comáin (Roscommon Choir) Ladies’ and Youth Choirs present their annual Christmas Concert at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Strokestown this Sunday (December 15th) at 7 pm. Tickets for the concert are €10 with proceeds going towards the Strokestown Church Restoration Fund and HeartSafe Project in Kiltrustan. The concert will be conducted by artistic director Derek Mahady and will feature soloist Maria Matthews, accompanist Celine Kelly, and percussionist Stephanie Pawula. All support would be greatly appreciated.

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 087-3833310.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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NEWS…at a glance

Dementia Friendly social tea dance A Dementia Friendly Social Tea Dance continues every Wednesday from 2 pm to 4 pm at Hannon’s Hotel in Roscommon town. All welcome.

Quiz for Ballaghaderreen Community Park

are ready to wow the audience with their Nativity-based play and the older children will have you clapping and singing along to their rousing, modern version of Cinderella. The show will take place on Wednesday, December 18th at 7.30 pm. A raffle will be held on the night and there will be lots of hampers and super prizes to be won. Admission fee is optional. Come early to get a seat!

SVP Elphin Christmas collection

The Ballaghaderreen Community Park committee is holding its annual table quiz in Spells Bar, Pound Street, Ballaghaderreen this Thursday evening (12th) at 8.30 pm sharp. Teams of four cost €40. All proceeds will go towards the upkeep of the Community Park. Contact Brid on 085-8492213 for more information.

The Elphin Conference would like to sincerely thank all those who contributed for their support for St. Vincent de Paul. Each year the Conference helps and supports people in the community by providing basic help with food, coal and vouchers. The Christmas collection this year is on Saturday and Sunday, December 14th and 15th and the Conference would be extremely grateful if it could rely on your generous support again this year. All funds raised in this area stay in this area.

40 years’ service…

Annual Wren Run for Pieta House The 4th annual Wren Run in aid of Pieta House will take place this St. Stephen’s Day in Woodford, Co. Galway. It is a 3km/6km which can be walked, jogged or run with proceeds helping to fight back and end the stigma around depression and tackling mental health issues. The Wren Run takes place in a scenic part of southeast Galway taking in the village of Woodford and Derrycrag Woods and Nature Reserve. Visit pietahousewrenrun.ie now to register and buy Wren Run merchandise, the profits of which go to Pieta House directly. Follow the event’s social media @ pietahousewrenrun to be in with a chance

Pictured is well-known Roscommon man Seamus McDermott (on right), Fishery Officer with Inland Fisheries Ireland, being presented with a certificate in recognition of 40 years of service. The certificate was presented by Dr. Ciaran Byrne, CEO of Inland Fisheries Ireland. Inland Fisheries Ireland would like to acknowledge the significant contribution that Seamus has made to the organisation over the years and congratulates him on this milestone.

of winning a host of prizes in the Early Bird Registration Draws. Prizes include a consultation with celebrity architect Dermot Bannon; a set of O’Neill’s jerseys; a hotel break at the Armada Hotel Spanish Point and €100 retail vouchers plus loads more.

‘Thank you’ from St Vincent de Paul The St. Vincent de Paul Roscommon confer-

ence would like to sincerely thank all those who contributed so generously to their recent Christmas Church gate collection. It was very much appreciated.

Concert in St Mary’s NS, Ballinagare Pupils in St. Mary’s NS, Ballinagare are busy working hard to put the finishing touches to their Christmas Concert. The Infant room

See Santa in Fairy Village in Castlerea Castlerea Musical Society invites you to come and meet Santa in Castlerea’s enchanting Fairy Village on Saturday, December the 14th from 12-4 pm. There will be story telling with Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate to keep you warm, fun activities…and you will get to meet Santa in his gorgeous thatched cottage. Tickets cost €10 (family tickets available). Entry via the Square entrance.

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

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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a t n a S et e M & Mrs Claus

Meet Santa and Mrs Claus at Athlone Castle Athlone Castle will be turning into a magical Christmas land on Saturday, December the 14th and Sunday, the 15th to welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be visiting for two days to meet the boys and girls from the town and surrounding areas. Children and their parents will be greeted by Mrs. Claus, who will entertain them with a Christmas storytelling session. Mrs. Claus will regale the children with lots of festive tales about Santa, his elves and reindeers, helping others during the season of goodwill and lots more about their adventures in the North Pole. After Mrs. Claus’ storytelling, children will enter the Castle Visitor Centre and follow a festive trail through the visitor centre where they will get a chance to have fun creating Christmas arts and crafts and have their faces painted whilst waiting to meet Santa Claus in his grotto in the Upper Keep of Athlone Castle. This will be a great opportunity for children to have a little chat with the man himself about their Christmas list, discuss whether they were naughty or nice this year and take the opportunity to get a photograph with him. Santa will also have a small gift in store for all the good children and treats for the toddlers. Storytelling and Santa visits will take place during four sessions daily at 12 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm and 3.30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Families are advised that pre-booking for each of the four sessions is essential to avoid disappointment as places will fill fast. Tickets for the event will cost €10 per child (children

at Athlone Castle

under two years of age go free), €4 per adult, €25 for two adults and two children and families of two adults and three children will cost €28. This will include entrance to Athlone Castle Visitor Centre, storytelling with Mrs. Claus, festive face-painting, Christmas crafts corner, a visit and chat with Santa and a small Christmas gift for children with an edible treat for toddlers. This Christmas experience will last for approximately 45 minutes and the castle gift shop and café will be open each day, with Christmas gifts and vouchers available to purchase onsite. Places for the event can be booked online at www.athlonecastle.ie by clicking on the ‘Events’ section. For more information contact Athlone Castle at info@athlonecastle.ie or by ringing 090-6442130. Athlone Castle looks forward to welcoming all the boys and girls to a very special and memorable Christmas experience!

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NewsPeople Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

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Christmas Craft Fair in Ballymoe Don’t miss the Christmas Craft Fair at the Fr. Flanagan Community Centre in Ballymoe on Sunday, December the 15th. On the day there will be plenty of beautiful gift ideas for family and friends including unique hand-made gifts, flower arrangements, candles, baked goods and lots more. Mrs. Claus will be present on the day as well while there will be great fun-filled activities including arts and crafts, face-painting and cookery demonstration…so don’t miss out and visit the Christmas Craft Fair this Sunday in Ballymoe.

Bernadine in concert in Frenchpark Church Bernadine Casserly will be performing in concert accompanied by Ann Kielty on piano in Frenchpark Church on Thursday, December the 12th at 8 pm. Bernadine, with her superb, easy to-listen-to voice will sing a mix of Irish folk classical and some famous Christmas carols. For a relaxed and very enjoyable night come along to hear this magical duo and get into the festive spirit. Tickets cost €12. All welcome.

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Miriam’s

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Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

You are the weakest link Eoghan…slán! Readers, here’s a little pop quiz question for you! Anyone remember the spectacularly sounding €6 billion scheme containing the ‘five pillar approach’ which was styled and launched by then Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government Simon Coveney in an effort to increase the supply of new homes to 25,000 a year by 2020? This initiative, (the terms of which were published in 2016), was set afloat in order to solve the country’s scandalous housing and homeless crisis. Indeed, if memory serves me, Mr. Coveney, upon launching what we now know was clearly a pie-in-the-sky plan, told us his government was ‘committed to a range of measures to reverse the chronic undersupply of new homes that’s making new home purchase and rents increasingly unaffordable and driving more people into homelessness’. Stirring words, and, to be honest, I’m sure, at the time, Minister Coveney meant every single one of them. However, fast-forward to 2017 and the Minister for posing-and-pout-

ing-in-a-hi-viz-and-hard-hat combo, Eoghan Murphy, takes over the government’s housing portfolio and what have we got? A massive increase (not a decrease) in our country’s homeless figures! Yes folks, not only are those of us who can’t afford a home of our own being held hostage by a man with come-to-bed-eyes and a loftconversion hairdo, we’re also expected to swallow his wave of ridiculously ill thoughtout excuses aimed at covering his spectacular failure to do his job. Indeed, last week, as he survived to fight another day following a failed motion of no confidence aimed against him, Minister Murphy, making sure the focus remained firmly on himself, (and not families without a roof over their heads), arrogantly appeared to dismiss the whole episode as being a waste of Dáil time. Well Eoghan, given that, when you took over the portfolio in June 2017, homeless figures stood at 7,941 and are now hitting 10,514, I’d say the only waste of Dáil time is you, sir!

It’s the most hysterical time of the year…

There’s no place like home for the holidays… i l St. Last week, the country’s largest hospital, James’ in Dublin, took a fair bit of flak for launching a competition to free up beds by offering staff members a €500 ‘cash prize’ to the ‘wards that send the most patients to the discharge lounge before 11 am’. Now, before I got my knickers in a twist, I decided to play devil’s advocate and look at the reasoning behind this so-called team incentive. To be fair, this, ahem, there’s-no-place-like-homefor-the-holidays motivational tactic wasn’t aimed at sick patients, rather it was aimed at those who’d already received their discharge orders from medics and were simply failing to vacate the leaba in favour of a comfy chair while someone signed off on their prescriptions, etc. Indeed, my own darling dad underwent lifesaving surgery in St. James’ in September and, even though he described his care staff as being ‘hard-working angels,’ (which they are), he thought out of the place and home he’d never get. But dad’s lucky. He has a lov-

And, while I hate to poke holes in your massive ego bucket, (actually that’s a lie…I love doing it), you’re now entering what I’d call the squeaky bum phase of your job. Indeed, personally I can’t fathom why Independents Noel Grealish, Michael Lowry and our own Denis Naughten (who I believe to be a sensible gentleman), would waste a vote and save you. Perhaps Denis’ rationale was to avoid a Christmas general election. However, as Eoghan has so far shamefully failed to put in place a national rent freeze strategy, a national rent cap initiative and an extension of the public housing scheme in order to help taxpayers secure affordable homes, it’s now clear he was probably never anything more than a busted flush! Bless him; because the closeness of last week’s 56 to 53 vote – four in his favour – glaringly heralds the beginning of the end for the minister and his cronies, sorry colleagues, leading me to say…you are the weakest link Eoghan…slán!

i support networkk at home. h f ing However, for those who don’t, and who are vulnerable, I feel such an incentive could be construed as being pretty heartless. In addition, as the discharge lounge in St. James’ is not a new phenomenon and has always been in place, I have to ask why it isn’t being used every day. To be honest, when you think of it, the very idea of staff being offered extra cash for utilising an already-in-place-process in order to keep the hospital bed system moving efficiently leaves a very sour taste in my mouth. But hey, maybe I’m just being overly sensitive, and a bit suspicious, especially as I’m wondering where the cash for the prizes was coming from. So, with that in mind, I’m going to throw it out there and ask you, my lovely readers, how you feel about it…was this a harmless holly-jolly Christmas incentive for staff, or a disrespectful and insulting Grinch(esque) turfing-out of vulnerable patients? By the way, the posters have allegedly been scrapped!

It’s the most hysterical time of the year…well, it is if you’re a thin-skinned, joyless snowflake whose sense of humour is eroding before your very eyes! Yep, I can see the letters to the editor being written as I type! Sorry Ed! While I do of course respect everyone’s feelings and opinions, I have to say that I’m sick of those misery-guts, hyper-aware, taking-offence-on-behalfof-everyone, PC brigade types who get their knees in a knot and their bellies in a tangle when they believe someone somewhere is having their emotional well-being compromised! Yeah, you know who I mean, readers. They’re the people who begin the debate at work, then, for good measure, amplify it on social media. They then invite other mirthless sods to get involved in opining as to whether certain words contained in a few classic Christmas songs that once were perfectly fine, are now regarded as insulting, offensive, aggressive, wounding and invasive, etc. (insert your own PC adjective to suit). But hey, if those who exert all of their energy into developing rules, regulations, structures and systems designed to foresee any probable situation where someone, somewhere, somehow may feel in some way perturbed, are feeling happy and fulfilled in their own little bubble-wrapped worlds, then sure, hasn’t it all been worth the effort? Nollaig Shona.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Making the Global Rossies’ connection! Monday morning, and the Minister for Finance was well impressed with the ‘new’ Civic Offices in Roscommon. Which, I suppose, is just as well – after all, he is the Minister for Finance & Public Expenditure and Reform. We were walking towards ‘Room 7’ in this spectacular maze of state-of-the-art spaces, when the minister signalled his approval. “It’s the first time I’ve been in this building, it’s fabulous” Paschal Donohoe commented as he strode towards a meeting with the local media. He’s a smooth operator, Mr. Donohoe, and now he’s an adopted Rossie. His mother, Caitlin, is a native of Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. That significant connection helped secure his presence in Aras an Chontae on Monday morning, where the minister formally launched a new drive to link the county with the global Roscommon family. It was a very positive event. The Council chamber was packed… mostly with Rossies and adopted Rossies. There’s no stopping the use of the word ‘Rossie’ now. Like many Roscommon folk, it’s gone global. Aptly, Paddy Joe Burke was present, complete with Rossie headband. Wasn’t it the local barber/GAA fanatic who coined the phrase…‘The Rossies’? Proceedings began with a slick

“

The Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe and Roscommon Couny Council Cathaoirleach, Paschal Fitzmaurice watch Paraic Newman who played ‘the returned yank’ in a short sketch to tell the story of the Roscommon diaspora during Monday’s launch of Roscommon Bound. Photo: Brian Farrell

video in which various Roscommon people (most, but not all of whom are abroad) spoke of their love for their native place. Next, a sketch performed by Paraic Newman, which went down very well with the large attendance. Paraic’s evocative one-man act addressed themes of ancestry, emigration, belonging. Minister Donohoe is such a smooth (and capable) public representative, I won’t be surprised if his political journey takes him to the office of An Taoiseach in due course. To take resi-

dency behind the desk. Time will tell. We have a report on the launch on page 19 this week, and further details to follow in the coming weeks and months. See also (www.roscommonroots.com). And while I’m at it, congratulations to Noel Strange and all his colleagues at Triest Press. They’re on quite a run…hot on the heels of winning a major print award recently (see page 20), the Roscommon-based company produced a terrific book to go with the ‘Roscommon Bound’ launch.

The Council chamber was packed…mostly with Rossies and adopted Rossies. There’s no stopping the use of the word ‘Rossie’ now. Like many Roscommon folk, it’s gone global

It’s over! What now? All over the country, people were inconsolable, disconsolate. They had long faces and short fuses. They knew this day was coming, but still… On Monday morning, they wandered around, like lost souls. Not everybody, of course (certainly not me), but a certain proportion of the populace. Many turned to their technological devices for some solace, for respite from the pain, the sense of loss. Others just turned to excessive intake of coffee. On Monday night, it got worse. Now it really hit home. Now the sense of loss was at its peak; they were distraught. But they battled on, even though it hurt on Tuesday night too. By Wednesday night, they were resigned, more philosophical.

After all, they know deep down that, as horrendous as the loss is, time will pass…and a new series of I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! will come around….

Spin 1 Substance 0 I recorded last week’s election ‘debate’ between Boris Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn, and later, watched it over the course of two nights. I would have been better off if I’d accidentally recorded Tellytubbies. Corbyn (who did quite well) kept largely to the script he wanted to deliver. Ask Boris a straight question these days – such as ‘Would you like a cup of tea?’– and he’ll just bring it straight back to getting Brexit done. Ultimately, the ‘debate’ was a triumph for spin over substance. The soundbyte warriors are taking over!

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

NewsPeople

WIN TICKETS TO

JOHNNY McEVOY CONCERT

Vanessa Gilleran from Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon has won €23,000 on last Saturday’s (7th December 2019) National Lottery Winning Streak Game Show. Pictured here at the presentation of the winners cheques were from left to right: Marty Whelan Winning Streak co-host; Vanessa Gilleran the winning recipient; Jim O’Connor, The National Lottery and Sinead Kennedy, Winning Streak Game Show co-host. Pic. Mac Innes Photography.

at ABBEY HOTEL ROSCOMMON on Sunday January 19th 8pm

Vanessa wins €23,000 on Winning Streak

Tickets €30 at Hotel, tel (090)6626240 and Ticketmaster.ie

Vanessa Gilleran from Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon won €23,000 when she appeared on the National Lottery TV game show ‘Winning Streak’ last Saturday. Vanessa has her husband, Peter, to thank for her ‘Winning Streak’ appearance as he put her name on a Winning Streak scratch card and sent it into the National Lottery. The couple have been married 12 years and met when Vanessa visited Ireland for a short holiday in 2003. Vanessa is from Johannesburg in South Africa and met Peter when she came over for a short break to spend it with a friend. The cou-

ple moved to South Africa and lived there for five years, before returning to Roscommon in 2012 and settling in Kilteevan. They have two children, Joshua (11) and Megan (9), who were delighted to cheer their mum on from their seats in the RTÉ studio. Vanessa is a speech therapist who works in Roscommon Hospital as part of the ‘Live Well’ team. In her spare time she plays on the Roscommon Water Polo team and is a member of ‘Kilteevan Community Development Group’, which looks after people in the local community as well as its local heritage.

To be with a chance of winning a pair of tickets (3 pairs on offer) just answer the following question... What date is Johnny McEvoy Concert at ABBEY Hotel? Send answer on postcard to: Johnny McEvoy competition, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or email to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or telephone 090 6634633

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Lions’ Church Gate collection is in aid of deﬁbrillators

REGISTER OF ELECTORS 2020/2021 Notice is hereby given that the List of Claims to have corrections made in the Draft Register of Electors is now being published. The List of Claims is available for inspection at Roscommon County Council offices at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, your Local Municipal District Offices, Head Garda Station, Head Post Office and County Library. The Draft Register (PINK) remains on display at all of the above locations. CLAIMS FOR INCLUSION OF NAMES ON THE 2020/2021 REGISTER OF ELECTORS WILL BE ADJUDICATED ON BY THE COUNTY REGISTRAR AT PUBLIC SITTINGS TO BE HELD AT THE VENUES LISTED BELOW. INTERESTED PERSONS MAY ATTEND. Monday, 16th December

Courthouse, Athlone

2.30 pm

Tuesday, 17th December

Courthouse, Roscommon Town

2.00 pm

Tuesday, 17th December

Boyle Municipal District Office, Cootehall Street, Boyle

11.00 am

Roscommon Lions Club will hold its annual Church gate collection this weekend, i.e. the 14th and 15th of December. Funds raised will go towards the upkeep of the four defibrillators which the Lion Club provides for the public (through

fundraising). These are located at Casey’s Circle K, Athlone Road; Gleeson’s Restaurant & Rooms, Market Square; Circle K, Racecourse Road; and The Girl Guide House in Mote Park. These defibrillators are checked on a regular basis and

the batteries replaced when required. Roscommon Lions Club are planning to join with members of the Roscommon Rapid Response Group to organise defibrillator training in the New Year. Please support this worthy cause.

Liam Bergin, Director of Services Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae Roscommon, F42 VR98

Dementia-friendly social tea dance Dementia Friendly Social Tea Dancing will continues every Wednesday from 2 pm to 4 pm at Hannon’s Hotel in Roscommon town and all are welcome. Following the success of similar initiatives in Galway and Mayo where organisers have noted the power of music and its ability to bring people back to themselves through the stimulating of memories and nostalgia through music and dance. This has assisted in people having fun and getting exercise while engaging with family and their carer’s. Feelings of confusion and forgetful-

ness have been replaced with fun and relaxation. Carers or family members can accompany their loved one for a social interactive get-together. A little sing-along and a dance and an opportunity to make new friends and have a cuppa. This initiative is organised by Western Alzheimers and supported by Roscommon Sports Partnership If you would like to volunteer or find out more about our Social Tea Dance, please contact our office at 090-6627816 or visit our website westernalzheimers.ie

Pictured in Glenamaddy Credit Union on Saturday for the visit of Santa Claus were Jaimee Lee, Riley and Paul Vining and Shannon, Faith and Mason McCarthy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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STRAIGHT TALKING

WITH SEAMUS DUKE

Outcome of UK election will impact on all of us Today (Thursday), the people of the UK go to the polls in a general election that will have far-reaching consequences for every single person living in this country, never mind in Britain! At the time of writing (Tuesday) it looks like Boris Johnson will secure a majority. If that is the outcome, there will be several major consequences for this country. Firstly, in the event of a Conservative majority, Brexit will go ahead on the 31st of January, with all the consequences that we have been hearing about for the past three years or so. Whether Johnson’s deal will still be intact or not is another question. Assuming that the UK leaves with the Johnson deal, then the DUP will be in direct conflict with the party that they helped keep in power for the past two years or so. However, the Conservatives cannot afford to fall out with the DUP altogether, as they will have to try to get Stormont up and running again at some stage. They cannot do that without DUP leader Arlene Foster and her colleagues. If the Labour Party had a more capable leader than Jeremy Corbyn, they would, in my view, run away with the election – given the chaos within the Conservative Party. But Corbyn is a total disaster as a leader. He sits on the fence on almost every major issue, and that approach is turning voters off (and I don’t blame

them). As bad as Boris Johnson is (and he is bad), at least you know where he stands on various issues. But if Johnson does succeed on Thursday, you can stand by for an even more pronounced deterioration in standards of public behaviour in the UK. In the past three years, while the Brexit debate has been raging, society at the fringes in the UK has become nastier and less tolerant. With every passing week there are more and more problems with

“

Whether it’s Jeremy Corbyn or Boris Johnson who is in Number 10, Ireland will have to secure a proper working relationship with Britain into the future

racial attacks and other examples of hatred. This is a huge – and escalating – problem. Thankfully it’s not as bad here in Ireland, but we cannot be sure what the future holds. The facts are that the UK is our nearest neighbour and whether they are in or out of the EU we will have to work closely with them, regardless of the prevailing circumstances. Whether it’s Jeremy Corbyn or Boris Johnson who is in Number 10, Ireland will have to secure a proper working relationship with Britain into the future. There will be a general election here after Christmas and there could well be a new administration in Leinster House. I’m told that it’s most likely that the Government here will fall in late January and we will be off to the polls shortly after that. I know that the majority of people are sick and tired of Brexit, but if Boris gets his majority in this election, then it will be back on the agenda big-time in January. There are many people who are of the opinion that Brexit will not go ahead and that the most likely scenario is another referendum to decide the issue once and for all. We will have to wait and see. By Friday morning, we will have a fair idea of the election result. Another chapter will have been written in the chaotic history of British politics, and the page will be turned once again for the commencement of a new chapter. Here in this country, we can only sit and watch this week. But, make no mistake, it will affect us all.

Peter and Milada Dzurik, Eric Horvath, Frantisek Kompus and Ladislav Dzurik pictured at the intercultural event at Gleeson’s Townhouse on Friday in association with Roscommon Gardaí and the Social Inclusion Office, Roscommon County Council. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Pictured at the annual GRETB Awards of QQI Certificates to part-time learners 2017.

Part-time courses commencing in January 2020 Proposed Amendments to the Roscommon County Development Contribution Scheme 2014

Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended) In accordance with Section 48 of the Planning & Development Acts 2000 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Roscommon County Council proposes to make Amendments to the Development Contribution Scheme for the County Council area. A copy of the Proposed Amendments will be on public display from 13th December, 2019 to 4th February, 2020 (both dates inclusive, but excluding bank holidays). A copy of the Proposed Amendments may be inspected at the following location: 1. The Planning Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon, during the hours 9.15 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 5.30p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays. 2. The Municipal District and Area Offices of Boyle, Ballaghaderreen, Strokestown, Castlerea & Athlone. 3. The Proposed Amendments to the Development Contribution Scheme can also be viewed on Roscommon County Council’s website: www.roscommoncoco.ie Submissions or observations may be made during the stated period and should be marked “Amendments to the Roscommon County Development Contribution Scheme 2014”, and submitted to: Forward Planning Section, Planning Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, County Roscommon, F42 VR98

Galway & Roscommon Education & Training Board Part-time course options provide flexible learning opportunities for young people and adults. The aim is to give people the opportunity to combine a return to formal learning with family, work and other responsibilities. Upon successful completion of awards, students may have the opportunity to progress further with their studies under BTEI or any other Adult Education Programme within the GRETB. Help with Childcare is offered to students attending BTEI courses, this is offered under the Childcare Employment and Training Support (CTES) scheme, more information on this scheme will be given on the first day of all scheduled classes. GRETB Adult Guidance Service will be available throughout the course to explore your educational and career choices. This may happen in a supportive group setting or on a one-to-one basis. The Guidance Officer will help you to “see the bigger picture, identify your strengths, find out about other courses and opportunities that may be available to you, develop your CV, build interview skills and help you achieve your goals through action steps”. Testimonial

Returning to education after a long period of time can be daunting, however if you do so it can be very fulfilling. See the testimonial from a past student of BTEI below:

“GRETB regional education centres have made a tangible difference in my life. I remain grateful for the wonderful experience and skills attained which resulted in meaningful employment gained as a result of accessing these local services. “I am just six months into an 18-month course that I love. The chance to be able to learn and to be educated at my stage in life is a gift. I love that I am being educated, trained and qualified to do something that I have wanted to do all my life. I have regrets, looking back, that I could have done this all so much sooner, that I held myself back, but those regrets are pushed somewhat aside by the fact that in many important ways this is the right time, right course, right teacher and right group of learners for me…learning at any stage of life is a gift. Learning in my mid-forties, and learning something I have a passion for, from someone who is passionate about the subject is priceless”. Who can take part on the advertised part-time courses?

Those over 16 years of age and out of full-time education, but priority will be given to those with less than a Leaving Certificate. Places are on a first come first served basis – see the individual detail for each course in the main advertisement on opposite page. Will I be paid while attending advertised courses?

No. For those in receipt of Department of Social Protection payments continued entitlement is subject to satisfying the Department of Social Protection. It is best to discuss individual circumstances in person with your local Department of Social Protection Office.

Submissions may also be emailed to forwardplan@roscommoncoco.ie Submissions or observations must be received by 4.30 p.m. on 4th February 2020. The name of the person and/or body making the submission or observation should be stated. Signed: Liam Bergin Director of Planning, Environment, Governance, Corporate Affairs & Athlone MD Area Manager. Date:

11th December 2019. Pictured at the annual GRETB Awards of QQI Certificates to part-time learners.

Fees: See BTEI advertisement

Employer-Employee Opportunities through ‘Skills to Advance’ Make skills work for you

‘Skills to Advance’ is an exciting new initiative that offers upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in lower level jobs. It benefits employees and SMEs through education and training. Additionally, ‘Skills to Advance’ can assist SMEs in identifying their training needs and provide training to their workforce. Employer – If you’re an employer, ‘Skills to Advance’ can work for you by helping to identify any potential skill gaps in your business, and by offering subsidised upskilling and reskilling options for your staff. It’s a straightforward way to help increase your productivity and competitiveness. Employee – ‘Skills to Advance’ is a national initiative that offers subsidised upskilling and reskilling opportunities for employees of all ages in lower skilled jobs, as well as employers, all over Ireland. The aim of ‘Skills to Advance’ is to equip employees with the skills to expand their work options in their current work or in availing of new work opportunities. It also offers assistance to employers in developing their workforce If you as an SME employer or as an employee of an SME would like to discuss this further, contact Lorraine Thornton, Employer Engagement Officer with GRETB (lorraine. thornton@gretb.ie) or Stephanie, Back to Education Co ordinator with GRETB (stephanie.oconnorshaw@ gretb.ie).

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

European Union Investing in your future European Social Fund

GRETB PART TIME COURSES *FREE HEALTHCARE MAJOR AWARD – QQI LEVEL 5 - 5M3782 (www.qqi.ie)

HEALTHCARE – INDIVIDUAL COMPONENT - QQI LEVEL 6

COMPONENTS COVERED:

COMPONENT:

Care of the Older Person/Communications/Care Skills/Work Experience/Palliative Care/Infection Prevention & Control/Care Support/Person Centred Focus on Disability

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Family Resource Centre, Ballaghaderreen, F45NA52

Start Date: 08/01/2020 (one day per week over 2 academic years)

Course Time:

9.30am-5.00pm

Time:

Entry Requirement: Applicants must have already successfully achieved a Major Award at QQI Level 5 in Healthcare or a related ﬁeld - proof will be required.

Venue:

VTOS Centre, Patrick St, Castlerea, F45X431 9.45am-4.30pm

Online registration Code: 275687 (www.fetchcourses.ie)

Online registration Code: 274777 (www.fetchcourses.ie)

HEALTHCARE – INDIVIDUAL QQI LEVEL 5 - COMPONENTS

CHILDCARE – QQI LEVEL 5 - 5N1764 (www.qqi.ie)

Person Centred Focus to Disability 5N1728 – Roscommon Town and Ballaghaderreen

Child Development

COMPONENT:

Online registration Code: 274071 and 228612 (www.fetchcourses.ie)

QQI Course Code: 5N1764 Course location:

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Care Support 5N0758 – Roscommon Town

Course Time:

10.00am-1.00pm

Online registration Code: 228682 (www.fetchcourses.ie)

Start Date:

08/01/2020 (Wednesday AM only)

Duration:

16 sessions

Care Skills 5N2770 – Roscommon Town and Ballaghaderreen

Online registration Code: 274823 and 275356 (www.fetchcourses.ie) Entry Requirement: Students must already have successfully completed at least one Component at QQI Level 5 in Healthcare or a related ﬁeld before joining this course (excl Occupational First Aid), evidence required

Online registration Code: 283218 (www.fetchcourses.ie)

HAIRDRESSING – QQI LEVEL 5 - 275517 (www.qqi.ie) COMPONENT: Hairdressing Theory & Practice QQI Course Code: 5N3345

SAFE PASS Mandatory: Must be booked in advance Venue:

Hannons Hotel, Athlone Road, Roscommon Town

Date:

07/02/2020

Time:

8.00am-5.30pm

Duration:

One day

Course location: Further Education Centre, Lisnamult Roscommon Town F42H985 Course Time:

9.15am-3.45pm

Start Date:

24/01/2020

Finish Date:

18/12/2020 Friday – one day only

Online registration Code: 275517 (www.fetchcourses.ie)

Online registration Code: 275458 (www.fetchcourses.ie) NOTE: Places allocated, and enrolment form MUST BE completed in advance of course starting, contact Stephanie or Sabrina for more information, 091-874585/090-6634189

COURSES ARE OFFERED *FREE OF CHARGE TO THE FOLLOWING: • • • • • •

Medical/GP Card Holders Those in receipt of a means tested Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection payment Dependants of above Outside of above you may qualify for a fee waiver/reduction under the Skills to Advance Scheme Those with less than Leaving Cert/QQI Level 5 Outside of above fees vary - contact Stephanie for more information

You may self-refer for all courses on www.fetchcourses.ie using the online registration code listed above. More information – contact Stephanie on 091-874585/090-6634189/ Stephanie.oconnorshaw@gretb.ie

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EMPLOYER – EMPLOYEE OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH - SKILLS TO ADVANCE – MAKE SKILLS WORK FOR YOU Skills to Advance is an exciting new initiative that offers upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in lower level jobs. It beneﬁts employees and SMEs through education and training. Additionally, Skills to advance can assist SMEs in identifying their training needs and provide training to their workforce. Employer - If you’re an employer, Skills to Advance can work for you by helping to identify any potential skills gaps in your business, and by offering subsidised upskilling and reskilling options for your staff. It’s a straightforward way to help increase your productivity and competitiveness. Employee - Skills to Advance is a national initiative that offers subsidised upskilling and reskilling opportunities for employees of all ages in lower skilled jobs, as well as employers, all over Ireland. The aim of Skills to Advance is to equip employees with the skills to expand their work options in their current work or in availing of new work opportunities. It also offers assistance to employers in developing their workforce If you as a SME employer or as an employee of a SME would like to discuss this further contact Lorraine Thornton, Employer Engagement Ofﬁcer with GRETB (lorraine.thornton@gretb.ie) or Stephanie, Back to Education Co ordinator with GRETB (stephanie.oconnorshaw@gretb.ie)

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

NewsPeople

Sarah’s Christmas ‘boxed’ up in the Big Apple  DAN DOONER

Roscommon town native Sarah Cunningham (32) will spend this Christmas at the Mendez Gym in New York City as she sets her sights on a spot at next February’s Golden Gloves boxing competition. Sarah, whose mother Mary is also from Roscommon town and whose father Liam is from Fourmilehouse, moved to the Big Apple two years ago where she works for a digital marketing company. “I first came to New York as part of a J1 summer and just loved the city. With visas the way they are, it took a long time to get back over. I ended up moving to Australia for four years and then spent two years in London. “The company I worked with in London had staff all over the world and the managing director was transferring to New York and took me with him,” she said. Sarah has always had an interest in boxing but it’s since her relocation to the Empire State that she’s taken it more seriously. “I train at the Mendez Gym, which is a real authentic gym run by a lovely Mexican family. I train under the legendary Mosis Sanchez and it’s also where I met my partner, Henry. “I always had a passion for boxing although I wasn’t involved competitively. When I moved to New York a friend recommended Mendez Boxing. It was a little bit intimidating at first but everyone there believed in me and helped me to believe in myself. They knew I was coming to learn,” she said. It was Sarah’s partner, Henry Deleon, who told her about Mosis Sanchez’s early morning sparring classes for females, and she’s been hooked ever since. “I still remember the first really intense sparring session and getting punched in the face. I went into work with a swollen

eye and bruising and thought I’d cry any time someone spoke to me. I was thinking ‘Is this something I really want to do?’ “I had given up a good deal of my social life at this point but my friends said I had become a better person. I was finding a lot of calm in the chaos of the city…once I got past how intimidating it was! “Work is highly stressful, with a lot of responsibility. There’s always that balance too of trying to find a broader community, because New York is a stressful city to live in and socialising can revolve around pubs and clubs. But when I’m in the gym or in the ring, I find boxing gives me real grounding and focus,” she said. Sarah currently has an amateur record of three fights and three wins in a boxing jurisdiction that is notoriously tough. Her next target is an appearance at the famed Golden Gloves tournament next year. “That would be a great achievement. The standard of training at Mendez is very high so it provides great preparation. Two of my training partners are actually preparing for the Olympic trials later this month. “The registration opens in January so I’m going to stay here and prepare for that. My last fight was four weeks ago and I enjoyed Thanksgiving but I’m back training now,” she said. The sport has certainly helped Sarah to find a sense of calm in the ‘city that never sleeps’, and she remains grateful to the women’s fight game and those who have blazed a trail. “It’s great to see the rise in women’s boxing. People shouldn’t fear it and there shouldn’t be a stigma attached to it. I find it amazing both physically and mentally. “Look at Katie Taylor, who has done a lot for the sport. She made a huge name for herself and having that connection, especially when you’re fighting in New York, is great”.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Former Garda arrested over immigration irregularities A retired Garda was arrested yesterday morning (Wednesday) by Gardaí from the Roscommon/Longford Division investigating a number of immigration irregularities at a Garda Station in the then Western Region, which began in mid-2017. The man in his 60s was detained at a Garda station in the midlands under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act. A Garda spokesperson said the man had been a serving member of the force but has since retired. Local Gardaí were assisted by a team from the Garda National Immigration Bureau and officials from the Department of Justice. Investigations are ongoing.

Murphy says elderly ‘stranded’ Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy, left, has said that many elderly people who rely on the security of monitored personal alarms are being left “stranded” due to the inaction by Eir in relation to resolving faults on landlines. Deputy Murphy raised the issue in the Dáil recently under questions on promised legislation. The TD pointed out that many elderly people living in isolated rural areas depended on the security of the personal alarm pendants but were being “left stranded” due to faults on landlines not being resolved.

Call on workers to use public car parks A local county councillor has appealed to business owners and their staff to redouble their efforts to free up parking spaces in Roscommon Town centre. Cllr. Tony Waldron, left, is calling on business owners and their employees to be extra conscious of the need to ‘release’ vehicle parking spaces in the county town at this time of year. In a press statement, Cllr. Waldron said that local SMEs are the lifeblood of the local community and that Roscommon Town is a great county town with excellent shopping options, services and facilities. “We all should be very proud of our county town, but the reality is that there will be some congestion in the buildup to Christmas and parking spaces for consumers – especially in Main Street – will be in much demand. “I appreciate that business owners and their staff are increasingly conscious of the wisdom of parking their vehicles in the public car parks, but it is still the case that some vehicles are being parked in Main Street and other streets for hours on end. “I would urge people working in local shops and restaurants and other businesses to utilise the excellent public car parks we have…in order that Main Street can be freed up for the general public. “This will significantly help local businesses,” Cllr. Waldron said. “The more we can free up Main Street and other streets for the general public, the more the local economy will benefit – and that’s in all our interests”.

POLITICAL PEOPLE

‘We’ll need more than Frankie’  PAUL HEALY

“We’ll need more than Frankie”. That’s what Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe said on Monday, when questioned by the local media in Roscommon about the Fine Gael ticket in the constituency they call Sligo-Leitrim, South Donegal and North Roscommon. The party was “very lucky” to have a candidate of the calibre of Senator Frank Feighan, the Minister continued. No second candidate had been sourced yet, he said matter of factly, but...“we’ll need more than Frankie”. Within 24 hours, Fine Gael had more than Frankie…did someone say a week is a long time in politics? Surely they meant 24 hours?! Readers will be aware that Fine Gael has had its woes in this constituency. First they selected former TD Gerry Reynolds and Cllr.

Sinead Maguire (at convention). Senator Feighan, no longer keen on running in Roscommon, had switched constituencies but had withdrawn at the last moment at convention. Then Mr. Reynolds surprisingly pulled out. Then Cllr. Maguire surprisingly pulled out…leaving Senator Feighan as the sole Fine Gael candidate. There were strong rumours of Fine Gael flirting with Marian Harkin (the former Independent MEP) but that came to nothing. On Monday of this week, Minister Donohoe made his sage comments in Roscommon. Then on Tuesday, Fine Gael made an announcement. Sligo councillor Thomas Walsh (34) was added to the ticket. Cllr. Walsh, who was elected to Sligo County Council in the Sligo-Drumcliff electoral area in May’s local elections, said he was honoured and privileged to have been selected by

the Fine Gael party. He has pledged to bring a new energy to democracy and to politics, whatever that means. But good luck to him. So there you have it. Frank is no longer the sole Fine Gael candidate. The flirting with Marian would appear to have officially ended. It’s Frank and Tom. And more evidence of how quickly things happen in politics!

ON TWEET STREET Gavan Reilly, political correspondent with Virgin Media News, tweeted on Tuesday @ gavreilly FF senator Terry Leyden tells the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications that the next general election will take place on February 22, 2020. Good to know

The write stuff… On Monday in Aras an Chontae, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe beamed on being asked to sign his name to formalise the official launch of the Global Rossies Strategy. Cue a quick scramble for a biro/ pen. Deputy Denis Naughten, formerly a Cabinet colleague of the minister’s, obliged. But that pen wouldn’t work at the first attempt, leading Minister Donohoe to quip: “It’s not working…I hope that’s not symbolic (for the fate of the project)”. As hands slid into jacket pockets, another pen was thrust forward. That one belonged to Deputy Eugene Murphy (it did work)!

Senator Terry Leyden and Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe share a laugh under the watchful eye of the minister’s advisor, Ed Brophy. Photo: Brian Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

NewsPeople

‘Roscommon Bound’ aims to connect global Roscommon family!  PAUL HEALY

Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe formally launched a new ‘Global Rossie Strategy’ before a large attendance in Aras an Chontae on Monday morning. ‘Roscommon Bound’ is a major new project which aims to connect the ‘global Roscommon family’. The initiative sets out how people in County Roscommon will link, liaise and collaborate with people of Roscommon origin worldwide. There are 946,000 people worldwide who have Roscommon roots. This new strategy aims to link ‘Rossies’ and strengthen the Roscommon family both socially and economically. On Monday, a new website (www. roscommonroots.com) was launched, as was an attractive booklet (‘Roscommon Bound’) which was produced by Triest Press. The new website will provide a reference point for new businesses, people interested in moving back home, and for people who want to trace their Roscommon roots. The initiative aims to promote the Roscommon ‘brand’ at every opportunity and develop ideas on a ‘Global Rossie’ basis. Central to the project will be use of social media. The county and all its attractions – and the benefits of being based here – will be marketed with a view to maximising networking opportunities, attracting investment, and welcoming people with Roscommon connections into our community. An inaugural ‘Roscommon Day’ will be held on June 21st, 2020. The county, its people, history and culture will be celebrated on this day. Going forward, local children will be presented with a ‘Roscommon Passport’ when they graduate from secondary school! At Monday’s launch, Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, said he was delighted that this project was now being launched. Addressing Minister Donohoe, Cllr. Fitzmaurice said that the area has suffered due to a lack of foreign direct investment. He asked Minister Donohoe to consider granting

Minister Paschal Donohoe pictured at the launch of “Roscommon Bound, the Global Rossie Strategy” and website in the County Council Chamber. Photo: Brian Farrell.

Council Cathaoirleach Paschal Fitzmaurice makes a presentation to Minister Donohoe with Breata Coyle and Nollaig Whyte, Regeneration Unit Community & Enterprise, Roscommon County Council also in picture. Photo: Brian Farrell.

tax-free status to Ireland West Airport in Knock, with a view to boosting the economy in this region. On the strategy being launched, Cllr. Fitzmaurice said: “It is about being passionate about your home place, about celebrating all that is wonderful about our people and our county. We will mark this with the Global Roscommon Day which will take place on June 21st 2020”.

Minister Paschal Donohoe pictured at the launch of “Roscommon Bound, the Global Rossie Strategy” and website in the County Council Chamber with Heather Tracey, Ann Bernadette Rattigan and Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council. Photo: Brian Farrell.

In his address, Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, placed a focus on the need for a new way of thinking as County Roscommon looks to the future. Mr. Cummins said that “major surgery” is needed in our towns and villages and that derelict properties have to be dealt with. A “new conversation” is needed on the issue of such derelict properties, he advised. Mr. Cummins

alluded to the importance of connectivity and of embracing new innovations. “Some aspects of our towns will have to change…I am referring in particular to Roscommon Town. Innovation is needed…we need to move forward in terms of our current dereliction…and not be bound by the shackles of the past”. Later, speaking to the Roscommon People, Mr. Cummins elaborated on

his comments, explaining that it is not realistic to expect all shops and such premises’ to be occupied in the future in the way that they may have been in the past. A new way of thinking was required, he said, including embracing new technologies. Specifically, he noted, it was time for the relocation of Roscommon Mart, which is currently centrally located in the county town.

Minister now an adopted Rossie!

Minister Paschal Donohoe, whose mother, Caitlin, grew up in Ballinagare, near Frenchpark in County Roscommon was back to his roots in Roscommon on Monday, December 9th to launch “Roscommon Bound, the Global Rossie Strategy” and website in the County Council Chamber. Picture shows the Minister receiving his ‘Roscommon Passport’ from local children and Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council. Photo: Brian Farrell.

Guest of Honour in Aras an Chontae on Monday was Paschal Donohoe, the Minister for Finance & Public Expenditure and Reform. Minister Donohoe, whose mother Caitlin is a native of Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon, was deemed to be an ‘adopted Rossie’ by a number of speakers! Offering his enthusiastic support for the ‘Global Rossie Strategy’, Minister Donohoe said that messages from Roscommon emigrants which had been shown on a large screen (at the launch) had reminded him of his own move to London in the 1990s. “Sometimes you have to leave your home to find our more about your home”. While he appreciated the huge role of social media in our lives, Minister Donohoe said that there is no substitute for physical contact, “for meeting someone from home when you are away”. Minister Donohoe emphasised how important ‘the diaspora’ is to Ireland. He commended Roscommon County Council and local public representatives on the Global Rossie Strategy and wished the initiative every success.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Business Boyle a big winner thanks to Failte Ireland funding Boyle is to be allocated €470,000 in funding by Fáilte Ireland to develop its potential as a tourism ‘destination town’. The funding has been allocated through Roscommon County Council as part of the €15.5 million ‘Destination Towns’ initiative launched earlier this year by the National Tourism Development Authority. The Destination Towns project in Boyle aims to enhance the attractiveness of the town and will deliver a

Historical Trail to connect three character areas and offer visitors a new perspective on the town, its historic assets and the beauty of the Boyle River. Deputy Denis Naughten said €470,000 will be provided to link King House, the Pleasure Grounds, Boyle Abbey and the Lough Key cycleway with a new walkway. This investment will also utilise the investment of €500,000 secured for

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the development of the cycleway from Lough Key to the town of Boyle. In Athlone, an investment of €500,000 has been secured to improve access to the castle from the bridge and to develop an outdoor performance space. Carrick-on-Shannon will see investment of €500,000 that will be used to improve signage, parking and public spaces in the town itself. Fine Gael Senator Frank Feighan

welcomed the funding for Boyle and Carrick-on-Shannon. In relation to the boost in his home town of Boyle, Senator Feighan said: “This is great news for the town and this funding will go towards developing a key link, through the development of a new walkway, between King House, the Pleasure Grounds, Boyle Abbey and the Lough Key cycleway. “I am also delighted that his funding allocation will see the long-awaited

upgrade of the Pleasure Grounds. I have pushed for this upgrade for some time and I am very pleased the playground will now undergo a major overhaul. “This latest of funding for Boyle complements the €1.7m in State funding for the redevelopment of the former Royal Hotel and €500,000 for the development of a cycle corridor linking up Boyle to our wonderful amenity at Lough Key Forest Park”.

Top award for Triest Press… Pictured (l to r) are Managing Director, Ian Murphy from Portman Graphic with Deborah Tierney, Emma Raftery and Tanya Fureaux (Roscommon) from Triest Press CLG (Roscommon) who were awarded Connacht Small Printer of the Year sponsored by Komori and Portman Graphic at the 42nd Annual Irish Print Awards held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Northwood, Dublin on Friday, 29th of November 2019. The 2019 Irish Print Awards recognise the country’s best companies in the print and press sector.

‘Zipit Lough Key’ completes national website programme ‘Zipit Lough Key’ at Boyle, Co. Roscommon is amongst 44 tourism businesses to have completed Fáilte Ireland’s ‘Website Improvement Programme’ which has been designed especially for visitor attractions and activity providers in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Fáilte Ireland’s ‘Website Im-

Pictured at the Failte Ireland event at Abbey Court in Nenagh, Tipperary are Tony Dawson Failte Ireland, Chris Beaty ZipIt, Aine Failte Ireland, Ian Cleary Presenter, Clare Beattie ZipIt and Marty Flood UL Sport Adventure Centre. Picture: Patrick Browne

provement Programme’ is a training and investment programme that will help participants improve the content and functionality of their website, as well as improving their digital skills. Speaking about the programme, Mark McGovern, Manager of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands said:

“We launched the ‘Website Improvement Programme’ to improve the attractiveness of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands by improving the websites of attractions and activity providers in the region. “Eighty six per cent of visitors to Ireland book everything independently and 92% of all visitors use

the Internet to research the destinations they are travelling to, so each website really is the shop window of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. The programme has been really well received to date and we look forward to seeing these websites going live in 2020 ahead of the peak tourism season”.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas 2019 in Roscommon

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Roscommon Chamber & Roscommon People

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ENTRY FORM Answers to competition (Find the Roscommon Chamber Crest)

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The #rosmas promotion will be published in the Roscommon People between now and Christmas. That’s three issues, including this one! Each week of the campaign we’ll ‘hide’ the Roscommon Chamber crest in TWO of the advertisements published as part of the #rosmas promotion. .

Find the crest… To enter, name all six advertisements in which the Chamber crest is ‘hidden’ – that’s two each week. Only submit your entry after Week 3 of the campaign (Roscommon (Roscommon People issue dated December 20th, 2019).

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Entries to ‘Roscommon Chamber Voucher competition’ by 4 pm on Saturday, December 21st. Please make sure to include your name, address and contact no. – and all six answers (see entry coupon)! Entries by post or hand to the Roscommon People, People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. We will accept entries by email to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Ten winners will be selected, with each winner receiving a €100 voucher. Vouchers redeemable with businesses that are members of Roscommon Chamber. Submit this entry form AFTER Week 3

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas 2019 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

#rosmas

Unique Christmas traditions from around the globe  IVAN SMYTH

Roller Skating to Mass in Venezuela In the Venezuelan capital of Caracas, mass goers put on a pair of roller skates and glide their way to church. The roads in the city are closed on Christmas morning so people can skate their way to Church safely. Legend has it that children sleep with one lace from their skates tied around their toe and the other skate dangling from the window so that their friends can wake them up with a friendly tug on the lace.

The Bad Santa in Austria and Germany In Austrian and German folklore Krampus is said to search the streets for children who misbehave…in contrast to St. Nicholas who looks for those who are well behaved. Krampus is a half-goat, half-demon figure who possesses horns and fangs. This creature is said to show up in towns on the night of December 5th, which is known as Krampusnacht, or Krampus Night. The next day, December 6th, is St. Nicholas Day, when children look outside their door to see if the shoe or boot they left out the night before contains presents (a reward for good behaviour) or a rod (bad behaviour).

Cobweb decorations in Ukraine While people all over Roscommon and

further afield are putting up their Christmas trees and decorating their houses with tinsel, Ukrainians will continue their distinctive approach to decorating. They traditionally use spider ornaments and fake spider webs to decorate. This dates back to an old legend, whereby spiders spun their webs on a Christmas tree for a poor family who could not afford decorations. This delighted the family and became a part of Ukrainian culture. The people of Ukraine believe spider webs bring good luck.

Watching Donald Duck at Christmas in Sweden In Ireland Christmas is a time when people sit down and watch Christmas classics such as ‘Home Alone’. However, the Swedish sit around their televisions at 3 pm on Christmas Eve to watch the cartoon ‘Donald Duck’. The Swedish watch the same episode every year called ‘Donald Duck and His Friends Wish You a Merry Christmas’. The tradition dates back roughly 60 years to when televisions arrived to the country with only two channels airing initially – one of which played Disney cartoons at Christmas. This is regularly among the most watched TV shows in Sweden every year. Although the tradition seems odd, families all over the country gathering together is what the festive season is all about.

In the Venezuelan capital of Caracas, mass go-ers put on a pair of roller skates and glide their way to church.

CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN. Phone: 090 6626233. Email: mjfarrell@eircom.net

Open Sunday 2pm to 5.30pm

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Christmas 2019 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

Annie and Vincent Timothy of Timothy’s Londis, Roscommon are celebrating 20 years in business. Pictured in Timothy’s Londis last Friday were Pat Beirne and Adrian Morris. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Annie and Vincent Timothy of Timothy’s Londis, Roscommon are celebrating 20 years in business. Pictured in Timothy’s Londis last Friday were Patrice Dunning (Waldron Meats) and David Hennessy (Horgan’s Deli Suppliers, Mitchelstown). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Annie and Vincent Timothy of Timothy’s Londis, Roscommon are celebrating 20 years in business. Pictured in Timothy’s Londis last Friday were proprietors Annie and Vincent Timothy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in Timothy’s Londis last Friday was Kate Horodecka with some of the cakes available in Londis. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Annie and Vincent Timothy of Timothy’s Londis, Roscommon are celebrating 20 years in business. Pictured in Timothy’s Londis last Friday were Elisa Rodriguez, Clodha Coyne, Gisela Oliveros, Kate Horodecka and Sinead Gannon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas 2019 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

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JACKSON’S Guest House & Restaurant

The Square, Roscommon. Tel. 090 66 65599 Now taking bookings for Christmas Parties Annie and Vincent Timothy of Timothy’s Londis, Roscommon are celebrating 20 years in business. Pictured in Timothy’s Londis last Friday were Annie Timothy and Mary Tarpey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

STARTERS Homemade Soup Served with brown bread ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Warm Chicken & Bacon Salad Drizzled with Cajun sauce & mayonnaise ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Homemade Golden Fried Garlic Mushrooms Breaded mushrooms filled with cream cheese & chives Served with mixed leaves & garlic aioli ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thai Fish Cakes Served with salad garnish & sweet chilli sauce MAIN COURSE Roast Prime Irish Beef Served with creamy mash & seasonal vegetables ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Traditional Turkey & Ham Served with sage & onion stuffing, roast gravy & cranberry sauce ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

090 6665599 Annie and Vincent Timothy of Timothy’s Londis, Roscommon are celebrating 20 years in business. Pictured in Timothy’s Londis last Friday were Kay Igoe and Annie Timothy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Annie and Vincent Timothy of Timothy’s Londis, Roscommon are celebrating 20 years in business. Pictured in Timothy’s Londis last Friday were Mike Crean and Annie Timothy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Christmas 2019 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

C hristmas People

MOLLOY’S

Bernie Maher – Roscommon Drama Group Who will you spend Christmas with? I always spend it with my husband Seamus, sons Kevin, Alan and Shane, my brother Brian and his partner Brid, and my mother and father, Beattie and Peter.

MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512. E. dnmolloymainstreet@eircom.net

What three people (living or deceased) would you have at your fantasy Christmas Dinner? I’d have to have my granny back; she passed away a couple of years ago. Offers available 12th to 15th December

My son Shane, who’s here beside me, would like to invite the Norwegian singer Sigrid. He’s a big fan of hers! And I’d have to invite the late, great Dermot Earley. What’s the best thing about the build-up to Christmas? This year it has been the success of the Roscommon Drama Group on the One Act Circuit. It’s been a great experience and it’s something I’m glad I did…I think!

And the worst? The dinner. I’m no cook! Tell us about the first time you cooked Christmas Dinner… Well it was a few years ago now…it wasn’t that bad really! People didn’t get sick or anything, they all ate it anyway! I just remember taking the turkey out and thinking there wasn’t enough meat on it to feed everyone… it turned out that I had put it in upside down!

Advice from Roscommon Hospital on staying well this winter

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During the winter months some viral infections are more common, for example respiratory tract infections, the norovirus vomiting bug and the flu. If you are aged 65 years or older, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and stay well this winter. Kate Donlon, Advanced Nurse Practitioner with the Frailty Team at Roscommon University Hospital (RUH) has some advice. She says: “Now is the time to get ready for winter. If you haven’t done so already, get the flu vaccine. Getting the flu vaccination is the most effective way of preventing infection by

the flu virus, which is more severe in people aged 65 years and over and for anyone with a long-term medical condition. The flu season is just starting so it’s not too late to get the flu vaccination. “Also, review your medication with your GP to make sure that you are taking it as prescribed and make sure you have sufficient supplies in the event of bad weather which may make travel to the pharmacy difficult”. The Advanced Nurse Practitioner with the Frailty Team at RUH is urging people to be aware of the impor-

tance of washing your hands and to check in on older people this Christmas. “Avoid people who have obvious signs of infection and wash your hands frequently – many of the bugs that cause infection can live for many days on table tops and other surfaces. “If you have elderly neighbours or relatives, check in on them to make sure they are safe and well and have stocks of food and medicine so that they do not need to go out during very cold weather”. For more tips on staying well this winter, visit www.hse.ie/winter.

Kate Donlon, Advanced Nurse Practitioner with the Frailty Team at Roscommon University Hospital (RUH)

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Care for your elderly neighbours this Christmas  MIRIAM KERINS

Pictured at an event to celebrate 20 years of Timothy’s Londis last Friday were Kayla Walsh and Santa. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

It’s the holiday season, and while there’s often a lot of emphasis placed on enjoying ourselves during this time, (and why not, we all deserve to have fun), the fact is, many people, especially seniors, can feel isolated and lonely both in the run-up to, and over the Christmas period. While getting older can bring a certain amount of wisdom, maturity and experience to a person’s life, it can also possibly bring a lot of issues. Loved ones and companion pets may have sadly passed away, adult children and grandchildren may have moved on, energy levels can decrease and mobility may also become an issue, leading to a loss of independence and opportunities to socialise and make new friends. With all of the above in mind, (or even some of it), it’s no wonder we often hear that many of our elderly neighbours, friends and family members can feel vulnerable, isolated, sad, and perhaps at risk of experiencing seasonal depression. If I’ve hit a nerve, and you’re now making comparisons with your own elderly relatives or the neighbour who lives down the road, then that’s good. If that’s the case, then please put that abundance of goodwill you’re feeling to work and think of checking in on them this Christmas. If you’re a senior citizen, while I’m certain they’ll also remember their own magical Christmases with love, I’m willing to bet that this year, for them, the festive season will be all about belonging, being safe and being cared for. So, while I’m not suggesting you take on the task of bringing joy to the whole world this Christmas, I would ask that

you might just consider bringing joy to any elderly people who may be alone and/or lonely this Christmas. You can do this by including them in both the celebrations and the festivities. Below are just a few of my own tips to get you started. Christmas cards Some seniors may wish to send Christmas greetings to loved ones abroad; however, mobility may be an issue for them. You popping in and taking them to the shops to select their cards would be a good way for you to start. Once purchased, take your senior friend for a coffee and help them to write their greeting, to address, to stamp and to send their cards. Christmas lights A lot of elderly people may not bother putting up a tree due to mobility or financial issues. And, as there are usually fire hazards associated with fairy lights, candles and other decorations, not to mention loose wires causing tripping hazards, perhaps it’d be a good idea for you to assist them with their ornaments and accessories. Please be aware that as they unpack cherished ornaments, many seniors may become emotional as they reflect on associated memories; so be tender. In addition, why not bring your senior friend out to the local town to see and enjoy the atmosphere, the lights and a nice hot chocolate. Make new memories Certain memories associated with Christmas past may prove painful for seniors, so why not help them to create new ones and new traditions. You could start by taking them to Mass, (if they wish), and introducing them to

other seniors in your area. You can also put a spin on the traditional Christmas Dinner by introducing a different ingredient or a different side dish or dessert, and dedicate it to them. In my day Sometimes, all we want is for someone to listen to us while we reminisce. If a senior in your company wishes to chat about loved ones, childhood memories, pets who have died, or indeed any other aspects of Christmas past, please allow them to do so. Please don’t rush them, rather gently encourage them and be there for them if they get upset. Help them to feel confident Unfortunately, senior citizens can be easy prey for professional predators, burglars, fraudsters, etc. By suggesting just a few practical changes, you can help a senior to make their homes safer. I would however advise that when discussing home safety with seniors, it would be wise for readers to try to strike a balance between raising awareness and scaring them regarding the increased risk of a burglary at home. It’s important when chatting about home and personal safety with a senior, that you try to make them feel empowered and confident rather than vulnerable. I’m certain your friendly local Garda crime prevention officer will be delighted to help with tips and advice. Finally, please remember that our seniors have taught us about the value and the importance of family, of life and of having friends, and make sure to thank them for giving us all of these great gifts. Be gentle with them, encourage them and let them know you care, not out of a sense of duty, but out of a sense of love and genuine respect for them.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Lanesboro and Ballyleague Lanesboro and Ballyleague lights up for Christmas! The official switching-on of the Lanesboro Ballyleague Christmas lights took place last Saturday evening. The lights once again illuminated

the towns on both sides of the bridge and bring a real festive feeling to the entire area. Congratulations to the hardworking Christmas Lights

committee, who also raised €771 in their lights collection last weekend. A great effort from everyone involved! If you missed the collec-

tion and would like to donate you can call to Joe and Martina O’Brien’s Corner Shop or Mag’s Hair Salon. Your support is greatly appreciated.

The People’s Christmas Selection Box Santa Claus set for ﬂying visit! Santa Claus will be making an appearance at Joe O’Brien’s shop this Sunday from 2 pm to 5 pm thanks to O’Brien’s and Rathcline GAA Club. It should be a fantastic afternoon with young people from the community and surrounding areas meeting Santa for a chat ahead of his busiest day of the year!

Walk or Run for charity! The annual Walk/Run in aid of MS Ireland will start from Newtowncashel on Christmas Day at 11.45 am for walkers and 12.15 pm for runners. Sponsorship cards are now available in O’Brien’s Corner Shop or from the Flood family in Lanesboro and Newtowncashel. All support would be greatly appreciated for this very worthy cause.

Christmas Carol service tonight! The boys and girls of Lanesboro Primary School will hold their annual Christmas Carol service in St. Mary’s Church from 6.30 ppm this evening g ((Thursday, y, 12th). ) All welcome!

Fancy a dip on Christmas hi D Day? ? 2018 was somewhat of a Renaissance year for the sponsored Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club Christmas Day Swim with numbers way up on previous years. This year’s swim will take place following 11.30 am Mass in Lanesboro (approximately 12.15 pm) and is a great way to shake off the cobwebs and start Christmas Day refreshed!

Any brave souls wishing to take on this annual challenge and support the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club and local charities in the process can get sponsorship cards in O’Brien’s shop or from any member of the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club. All support greatly appreciated for what is a very unique and enjoyable annual event!

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Antoinette Kenny, Sandra Lavin, Siobhan Hanley, Cora Glover and Phil McDermott pictured at Lanesboro Triathlon Club on Tuesday evening for the Zero to Tri induction night. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Season’s greetings to one and all

From Zero to triathlete with Clarke’s Bar Lanesboro Triathlon Club! – Lanesboro –

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Are those New Year’s resolutions related to a fitter and healthier you? Are you looking to get out and meet

new people in a challenging yet rewarding setting? Then Lanesboro Triathlon Club could be the place for you. Established in 2010, the

club was recently named ‘Club of the Year’ by Triathlon Ireland and has just opened new club rooms in Lanesboro. It has around 140 members including a

Music every Monday, Wednesday and Friday night Wishing everyone a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year from

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Cian Crosbie, Lanesboro Triathlon Club Chairperson, Michael Sorohan PRO, and club member John Gilleran pictured at Lanesboro Triathlon Club for the Zero to Tri induction night last Tuesday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Who will you spend Christmas with? My family including my mother, my wife Tricia, my sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews. Do you have any Christmas traditions in your house? My father’s anniversary Mass is on Christmas Day so we go to St. Joseph’s Church in Kilteevan where I’m from and then back home for an outrageous fry-up after. Friends of the family come back to the house for the fry too. Then we usually spend the day playing games and watching movies.

What three people (living or deceased) would you have at your fantasy Christmas Dinner? I’d have Shane McGowan because we used to go to his concerts and really enjoyed them. They would usually be on when we were up Christmas shopping in Dublin. I’d also have the comedian Des Bishop for a good laugh and ‘The Boss’, Bruce Springsteen for the music! I’ve been to a few of his concerts and the energy he still has at his age is phenomenal.

Junior section, and runs the extremely popular Two Provinces Triathlon each July. Chairperson Cian Crosbie says the club is focussed on accessibility and promoting participation in triathlons as well as aquathlons and other running and swimming events. “At the moment we are running induction nights for our very popular Zero to Tri programme which basically takes you from the couch to taking part in your first triathlon. “We have our official launch of that programme at 7 pm on Saturday, January 11th where people interested in the club or taking part in triathlons can come along and take a look at our facilities and chat to members including those who took part in last year’s Zero to Tri programme,” he said. Those taking part in Zero to Tri will train three nights

a week with swimming in the Coral Leisure Centre on Mondays from 9 pm to 10 pm, Turbo classes (cycling) on Wednesdays in Lanesboro from 7 pm to 8 pm, and running on the track behind Lanesboro Secondary School on Friday evenings from 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm. Induction nights are currently taking place and the club will host the official launch of the programme on Saturday, the 11th of January…just in time to get those New Year’s resolutions off on the right foot! To find out more For more information about the Zero to Tri programme or Lanesboro Triathlon Club in general, call 086-2191665, email pro@ trilanesboro.com, click on trilanesboro.com or check out Lanesboro Triathlon Club on Facebook.

John Gilleran Lanesboro Triathlon Club Who’s on your naughty list this year? Donald Trump definitely, and that other gent over in England, Boris Johnson. Who deserves presents this year? Lanesboro Triathlon Club for being named ‘Club of the Year’ a few weeks ago. We’ve around 140 members here and it’s a great place to run, swim and cycle the turkey and selection boxes off in the New Year!

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Lanesboro and Ballyleague Season’s greetings to one and all from

Coach Colm Daly showing new members how to use the gym equipment at Lanesboro Triathlon Club last Tuesday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Quality Care through Traditional Family Values

Lanesboro Triathlon Club is located on Main Street in Lanesboro. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Michael Sorohan, Lanesboro Triathlon Club PRO, Colm Daly, swimming coach and Niall O’Donohue, strength and conditioning coach pictured at Lanesboro Triathlon Club on Tuesday evening for the Zero to Tri induction night. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Couple are a Zero to Tri success story! Speaking of Zero to Tri, Lecarrow native David Beattie (43), is just one of the club’s recent success stories. “I first started here because I wanted to do triAthlone. My friends had done it before and a friend from Westport suggested we give it a try. “I came back this year because after I joined (last year) I really got into the club scene and the social aspect of it. There’s a group of people in it together and we’re all dragging each other along. The coaches and other members give you great motivation too,” he said. David had previously climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and had also taken part in Sea2Summit events and Gaelforce. “I did come from a nonswimming background; I could swim but wouldn’t have swum competitively. But since joining I’ve

completed 2km swims in open water including the Great Fjord Swim in Killary in Connemara,” said David, who was also named ‘Most Improved Runner’ last year. Those taking part in Zero to Tri are offered the chance to try each discipline: running, swimming or cycling in order to test the water so to speak. Readers will also be pleased to hear that swimming training takes place in the warm water of the Coral Leisure Centre in Roscommon town, many miles from Killary Fjord! Training for running and cycling takes place in Lanesboro with indoor ‘Turbo’ sessions throughout the winter ahead of club races and time trials on local roads in summer months. At the recent Triathlon Ireland awards in the Conrad Hotel, Dublin, Lanesboro Triathlon Club was

praised for its inclusiveness and the fact that there are equal numbers of men and women involved. The focus for 2020 is to boost participation further and the club is a champion of women in sport. David’s partner and Four Roads native, Ciara Moran (33), joined the club with him last year. They are both members of Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club, where they met two and a half years ago. “A lot of new people joined the club at that time and everyone was very welcoming. I love the swimming but hated the cycling, but our coach Mike Sorahan was very encouraging and there’s definitely less dread about it this time around!” Indeed, Ciara, who teaches at Knockcroghery Primary School, had high praise for the entire coaching team at Lanesboro Triathlon Club.

“Everyone’s really friendly, as David says. It’s a very inviting club and the coaches are very helpful and offer plenty of encouragement. The coaching is

great really and the sessions are really good so it allows you to build up to the real thing. It’s great for fitness and getting in shape too,” she said.

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Glenamaddy/Glinsk/Creggs/Williamstown/Ballymoe/Mountbellew Wishing Gaels GAA Wishing youNorthern all a very Happy Christmas Club every success in the andfuture New Yearfrom: from all at

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Shane and Tommy Ward presenting a cheque for €1,131 to David O’Donnell of Cancer Care West. Tommy ran the Dublin City Marathon earlier this year and all proceeds went to Cancer Care West. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Proceeds from the annual fundraising dance which has been held every year for the past 16 years in Dowd’s of Glinsk were handed over to two charities at a function in Dowd’s on Wednesday, November the 20th. The charities in question were the Castlerea Lourdes Deanery Sick Pilgrim Fund and Cancer Care West. The total amount raised was €5,430, which was divided equally between the two charities. Frank Brandon, who organises the dances each year along with his hard-working committee of Mary Kelly (who is also President of the Castlerea Lourdes Deanery), Tom Connolly, Richard Smith, Mary Devaney, Kathleen McKeague and Carol Brandon, thanked his committee colleagues and all in the Creggs, Kilbegnet and Glinsk areas for their generous support of the event. Mr. Brandon also thanked all who donated spot prizes, Tommy and Dolores Dowd (also Eileen) for the use of their premises, and Jimmy Kearney and The Lancers, who provided excellent music on the night. He also stated that next year’s dance (the 17th annual one) will be held in September. Mr. Danny Burke, PRO of the Castlerea Lourdes Deanery, thanked Frank Brandon and his hard-working committee for their great work in raising so much money over the past 16 years for the Sick Pilgrim Fund, stating that without their fundraising effort, many sick pilgrims would not get the chance to travel to Lourdes. Mr. Burke said that 13 sick pilgrims from the ‘Castlerea Deanery’ travelled to Lourdes on this year’s pilgrimage and this was due in no small way to the group’s fundraising efforts. He also thanked the people of Creggs, Kilbegnet and Glinsk, Tommy and Dolores Dowd, Jimmy Kearney, ‘The Lancers’ and all who helped in any way with the success of the dance. Mr. David O’Donnell, speaking on behalf of Cancer Care West, also thanked Frank Brandon and his committee, stating that for the last 10 years Cancer Care West has received much-needed funds from the dance. This, he said, is very much appreciated. Mr. O’Donnell also thanked the following who donated money on the night to Cancer Care West: Mr. Tom Lally, Glinsk, who donated proceeds from his recent 80th birthday; Tommy Ward, Glinsk, who presented monies which he raised from the Dublin City Marathon; and Margaret Morris, Glinsk, who also made a donation.

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Tom Lally recently turned 80 and instead of accepting birthday presents he asked for all such monies to be donated to Cancer Care West. Tom raised €3,000. Tom is pictured presenting a cheque to David O’Donnell of Cancer Care West. Also in picture are Marian, Paddy and Sinead Lally. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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Glenamaddy Musical Society stages The Sound of Music… Scenes from Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music at the Town Hall Theatre, Glenamaddy. Pics: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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ing to Christmas Carols. This is not to be missed so bring the whole family!

Family Giving Tree launched

Pictured in Glenamaddy Credit Union on Saturday for the visit of Santa Claus were Jaimee Lee, Riley and Paul Vining and Shannon, Faith and Mason McCarthy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Carol Service at Glenamaddy Church The annual Christmas Carol Service at Glenamaddy Church will take place on Tuesday, December 17th at 7.30 pm, and will feature the three parish choirs (junior, trad and senior) together with Transition Year students who will lead the congregation in many of the best-loved music and songs of Christmas. It promises to be another beautiful evening of Christmas cheer not to be missed!

What is the one sports-related present you would like to receive this year? If I could make a wish for something this Christmas, I would be asking for Creggs to win the Connacht Junior Cup next year. We were well beaten by Connemara this year so hopefully we can go one better in 2020 and win it. What sporting event are you looking forward to most this Christmas or in 2020? I am looking forward to the European Championships (soccer) next year. There will be a great atmosphere in Dublin with some of the games coming there. I was at the Denmark game and we were agonisingly close to

The Parish Family Giving Tree was launched by Parish Priest Fr. Paddy Mooney and Karen Feeney from the Galway Simon Community at Glenamaddy Church last Saturday and will be on display right throughout the Christmas season. Parishioners are asked to leave all unwanted gifts under the tree, which is located at the baptismal font area of the church. All unwanted gifts will be given to the Galway Simon Community. This is the third year of the Family Giving Tree which has saw a terrific response in 2017 and 2018.

Pictured at Glenamaddy Credit Union on Saturday for the visit of Santa Claus were Luke, Arianne, Marie and Tadgh Turley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

C hristmas People

e a very everyon ar Wishing mas and New Ye st ri h Happy C

the journey to Bethlehem, the manger scene with costumed characters and live animals while listen-

The People’s Christmas Selection Box

www.evergreenfields.ie Jackie, Bríd and family would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Sunday (15th) outside Glenamaddy Church. Revisit the story of Jesus Christ’s birth by seeing

getting the win. I hope we can qualify and get two games in Dublin but if we don’t there will still be a good atmosphere.

Thank you to Church decorators! Those who helped to decorate Glenamaddy Church are offered a sincere thank you from the Pastoral Council. The church looks beautiful in time for Christmas!

Tom Callaghan Creggs Rugby

What three sports people (alive or deceased) would you invite to your fantasy Christmas Dinner?

stories to tell as well. Finally I’d bring Scott Oates, the Roscommon Gaels man. He would be another good guest to have over as he is good craic. You need story tellers and people able to talk if you want to have a good night so those three would be the ones I’d pick.

That’s a tough one! There are so many different options. First of all I would go for George Best as I think he would have a good few stories to tell. He was one of those who would have enjoyed life and he probably would have plenty to talk about. I’d also bring the cricketer Freddie Flintoff. He seems like another man well able to enjoy himself and he would have good

What is the worst part about being an athlete at Christmas? I wouldn’t even call it annoying, but training in the cold and muck over Christmas can be tough. The training doesn’t stop just because it’s Christmas. It can be tough to put down the box of Roses and go out training – but in fairness you would feel great after you’ve done the sessions. We love playing so

that makes it easier but it can be tough when everyone else is in pyjamas and you have to get up and go out! Who is your Sports Personality of the Year? I would have to go for Aoife O’Rourke for this one. Winning the gold medal (at the European Boxing Championships) was a serious achievement. I think a lot of people don’t realise how big an achievement it was. It was a big, big deal. There was a massive turnout at the homecoming, which she fully deserved. As a Castlerea man myself I was delighted that she put us on the map!

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Glenamaddy/Glinsk/Creggs/Williamstown/Ballymoe/Mountbellew C hristmas People Who will you spend Christmas with? Christmas will be spent with family. Since I was a little girl, I always felt the ‘magic’ of Christmas, a special time when Heaven touches earth. Part of the magic for us is Midnight Mass. When I hear the choir singing, the priest, the people, the bells and smells, I think ‘I’ve died and gone to Heaven’. Are there any Christmas traditions in your family? We’ve always listened to Christmas Carols. Kids listened to ‘Tijuana Christmas’ (younger members still do), and watched The Quiet Man until the whole family could quote it verbatim. Now, I make homemade mince pies for 21 demanding mince pie fanatics! The homemade

Bernie Ganley Founding member of Glenamaddy Musical Society

mincemeat is always ‘anointed’ with a good dash of ‘Christmas spirit’!

and song and give the other two guests a taste of Irish music and tradition.

What three people (living or deceased) would you have at your fantasy Christmas Dinner? Abraham Lincoln. His ‘Gettysburg Address’ which our English teacher taught us, says it all. I read his life story when I was a teenager and fell in love with him. St. Thomas Moore, despite being a great friend of Henry VIII and Lord High Chancellor of England, opposed Henry, stood up for his beliefs and was sentenced to death. Watch the film ‘A Man for all Seasons’. Turlough O’Carolan, the blind Irish harpist, composer and singer, would provide the music

Who is on your naughty list this Christmas? Nobody. I believe that we have to forgive and forget…not always easy…it requires time and patience. Forgiveness brings healing and freedom for ourselves and for those we forgive. A dream come true would be to bring countless blessings, love, laughter, joy and happiness into the lives of those I may have offended by any action, look, word or negligence. Who deserves presents this year? People who strive to do their best every day. The theme in the song from ‘Camelot’: “To dream

the impossible dream” sums it up. All, who despite, knockdowns, heartbreaks and adversities, plod on, pick themselves up, dust themselves off and start all over again. Can you remember the first ever production from Glenamaddy Musical Society? Yes, of course! It was a Variety Concert produced and directed by Declan Feeney, with songs and scenes from ‘A Christmas Carol’ and me singing (badly) ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’. Many of the people who were involved in 1994 are still participating in this year’s production. Sadly, some of our group have gone to join the chorus of angels. May they sing forever and rest in peace.

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

DOLAN’S BAR ~ CREGGS ~ Friday 13th:

Monthly Irish Ceile Session - 9pm Saturday 14th:

Live Music from 9.30pm Sunday 15th:

Shane Moore from 8pm

PAGE – Dolans Public House - Creggs Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

CREGGS Rugby Club

A lively night in Mountbellew! The ‘Mountbellew Underground Writers Group’ is hosting a lively night of musical and spoken entertainment at Kate Mullins’ Pub, Mountbellew, on Friday, December the 13th at 9 pm. Available on the night is the group’s third collection: ‘2019 Winter Magazine – A collection of prose and poetry for light hearts and dark wits’! All the pieces are written by authors from Galway and Roscommon.

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Beez Kneez Early Educationall

Preschool & Creche

Glenamaddy, Co Galway 086-3030827

Wishing all our new and existing a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Now Enrolling for ECCE Free preschool

Fergal Doherty Motors Motor Mechanic Williamstown, Co. Galway TELEPHONE: 086 1089964 Fergal Doherty motors carrying out Servicing and repairs on all makes and models, of Cars,Van’s & 4x4’s • Tyres • 4 wheel alignment/Tracking • Servicing •NCT/DOE Preparation • Diagnostics • Timing belts & chains • Brakes• Clutches • Recovery • Pick up & drop off service also available on request

CCSP/CETS/TEC/CEC schemes also available. Childcare places from 6mths to 12yrs Pictured at the launch of the St. Stephen’s Day Creggs Charity Walk in O’Roarke’s on Friday night were (back row, left to right): Padraig Walsh, Galway Hospice, Mary Gaffey, Creggs Charity Walk Committee, Ger Dowd, Sunshine Rooms at Creggs NS, Pauline Scott, Creggs Charity Walk Committee, Michael O’Roarke, Creggs Charity Walk Committee, Teresa McKeague, Creggs Charity Walk Committee, Bina Harris, who helped organise the Barrie Harris Memorial Walk in Creggs in previous years, Lily Timothy, Creggs Charity Walk Committee, and Mary Devaney, Creggs Charity Walk Committee. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Glensound & Lighting Joe Cunniffe

086 2542133 / 094 9659151 joecunniffe1@gmail.com Kilkerrin Road, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway Sound Equipment Studios ● Transmission Equipment ● Installations & Repairs ● ●

Main Irish Agent for KME Superior Equipment

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

(Above) Pictured at the launch of the St. Stephen’s Day Creggs Charity Walk (in aid of Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice, Galway Hospice, Creggs Senior Citizens Annual Party and the Sunshine Rooms, Creggs NS) in O’Roarke’s last Friday night were Jim O’Rourke, Brendan Kelly and Noel Purcell. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

DESIGNATED DRIVERS GET YOUR FREE MINERAL THIS CHRISTMAS!

(Right) Pictured at the launch of the St. Stephen’s Day Creggs Charity Walk (in aid of Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice, Galway Hospice, Creggs Senior Citizens Annual Party and the Sunshine Rooms, Creggs NS) in O’Roarke’s last Friday night were Deirdre and David McGettigan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

HARTES

Corner House

GLENAMADDY TEL.: 094 9659086 Saturday 21st:

DJ Jack Haugh

Sunday 22nd: Keep it Country - Live Music with

Shane Moore Monday 23rd: DJ Noel St. Stephen’s night: Saturday 28th:

Disco in Bar+Lounge

Karaoke

EVERY TUESDAY - 25 CARD GAME (TURKEYS + HAMS AS PRIZES)

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Ballygar Christmas Concert in the Courthouse The Galway City Chamber Choir will perform a very special Christmas Concert

at the Courthouse in Ballygar on Friday, December 20th.

This must-see musical performance will begin at 8 pm and tickets priced at just €5

are available on the night or from any member of the Ballygar Tidy Towns.

The People’s Christmas Selection Box

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Paul Taylor, Kirsten Kelly and Joe Fox. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Santa Claus is coming to town! Santa Claus is coming to Hughes’ Bar in Ballinamore Bridge this Sunday (15th) in aid of the Ballygar, Newbridge and Toghergar Playground. The man from the North Pole will be there from 3.30 pm on the day!

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Nathalie and Minte Wolde. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Season’s greetings to one and all from Noel and Marie in

Doyle’s Corner

Main Street, Ballygar (090) 6624559

Live music all throughout the Festive Season Free entertainment for all Christmas parties Looking forward to seeing you all over the Christmas

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Bernie Kelly, Mary Murray and Geraldine Malone. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Solstice Choir and Coláiste Mhuire put on a show! The Roscommon Solstice Choir and special guests Coláiste Mhuire put on a real show in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar last Friday night (6th). The capacity audience was entertained by a number of seasonal favourites in very festive

surrounds and all proceeds from the event will go to charity as well as local causes. Projects to benefit include Famine Victims and projects in Zambia via Mary Silke, and the Coláiste Mhuire Transition Year Fund. Well done to all!

Christmas Fair this weekend Ballygar Tidy Towns are hosting a Christmas Fair this Saturday, December the 14th from 8 pm and on Sunday, December the 15th from 11 am in the courthouse. There will be a cake sale and lots of items on offer from TY students of Coláiste Mhuire and local traders.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year

The Medical Hall Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway Telephone: 090-6624557

• Gift Hampers made to order • Wide selection of gift sets available in store • Gift vouchers available • Complimentary Gift wrapping services with all gifts purchased

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Pat Conboy, Pat Stubley and Vanda Jones. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Ballygar Are there any Christmas traditions in your house? I’m from Glinsk so I normally visit the family I have up in Dublin a couple of days after Christmas – around the 27th or so. I usually cook a fillet of beef when I visit them so that would be the main tradition I would have.

probably sit between Alex and Roy at the dinner though, to try and help them make peace! I’d have Tiger Woods at the table too, because I’m a huge golf fan. When he plays you can see he is a master at work. There is something special about him…he is different to every other golfer.

What three people (living or deceased) would you invite to your fantasy Christmas Dinner? I would have Sir Alex Ferguson down as I am a Man. United fan. He is the greatest manager that I have ever seen and I fondly remember all the success he brought and the way his teams played. The way he brought the club and the fans together was special. The joy he brought throughout his years managing United was fantastic! Next I would bring Roy Keane as he is the greatest Irish player to pull on the red of United. I would

What is the best thing about the build-up to Christmas? The best thing about Christmas is the time spent with family. I am thankful that I am able to spend time with them during the Christmas period. With some of my family in Dublin, it nearly feels like I have two Christmases. Family is important, especially during this time of year. And the worst? I think consumerism has gone way too far. The build-up to Christmas nearly starts around

Season’s greetings to one and all from

Tony Scappaticci

C hristmas People

Ken, Paula and all at

Holmes’ Centra, Ballygar

Western Fire Protection Supplies Ltd.

Halloween…the build-up starts way too early… Who would you put on the Naughty List? If I had to pick someone I would go for Donald Trump. I think he is very divisive and right now we need people who are going to bring people together and he doesn’t do that. People like (Nelson) Mandela and others have brought people together but Trump seems to be the opposite so I’d put him on the Naughty List.

Ballygar, Co. Galway Tel: 090 66 24593 / 087 2428771 E. westernfireprotection@eircom.net Season’s greetings to one and all from

Lohan’s Garage SALES & SERVICE

Who deserves presents this year? I have a lot of admiration for people who work in the health service, especially around Christmas. The nurses, doctors and midwives all face a lot of work around Christmas. They do fantastic work in very difficult conditions so I think they deserve presents.

High Street, Ballygar. Phone:

090 6624800

Roscommon Solstice Choir concert in Ballygar… Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Michael Ward, Jimmy Hoban, Joe Fox, JP O’Dowd and Paul Taylor. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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

Phone: 090 66 24078

a g e M Deal Offers – Valid Thursday 12th Dec. (see instore for various finish dates) 20 box bottles Carlsberg, Budweiser and Canadian Only €15 Each (valid 19th-25th Dec)

3 for €2 on Selected Fruit and Veg like Melons/Pineapples/Sprouts/ Bag Apples/Carrots and Onions.

Irish Rib Roast Save 33% Now Only €10/Kg

Ham Fillets 2Kg Half Price Only €8 Villa Maria/ Prosecco/ and Dada wines any 2 for €15

Seasons Greetings from The Holmes Family and all our staff at Centra Ballygar and The Bon Bon. May you have a very special Christmas and New Year with family and friends. Thanks for your support of our businesses throughout 2019.

We would like to invite you to our

ANNUAL CUSTOMER DAY on Friday, 20th December and bring as many friends and family as you can. We will have free food and drinks and lots of gifts and treats besides ... as well as some very special offers on the day so don’t miss out.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Ballygar Season’s greetings to one and all from

Stephen Blake M.R.I.A.I. Trihill, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinsloe, Co. Galway.

P: 090 66 24681 M: 087 635 8949 E: sblake2006@gmail.com

Wishing You All A Very Happy Christmas

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Ann Ryan, Eimear Reynolds and Helena Healy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Carmel O’Shea, Music Director, Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, and Rose Marie McAndrew, Transition Year Co-Ordinator, Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon Solstice Choir concert in Ballygar…

Enjoy a traditional festive drink at Moran’s this Christmas and ring in the New Year with us on the 31st Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Donal Smith and Sons Ltd Building Contractors and Property Developers

Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway Tel 090 66 24556 Donal 087 2584381 Adrian 087 2647118 Trevor 087 9015189 donalsmith2012@gmail.com

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Olive and Peter Daly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Rachel Farrell, Avena Traynor, Aimee Carty, Amy Coleman and Niamh Barry. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Ballygar P.O. Tel: 090 66 24511

Denis Delaney Building Contractor Tel: 087 6828818

The Thatch Bar

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Helen Dempsey, Ann Burke, Mary Fallon, Maureen Hanly and Eilish Whitton. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Marie Gillooly, Paul Coyle and Ita Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Ballygar – 090 66 24922 – OPEN DAILY – Proprietors:

Matt and Mary Quinn Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Catherine Molloy, Michelle Macauliffe and Kay Mole. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh.

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were James Healy, Mairead Crowley, Catherine O’Brien and Mary Healy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Ballygar Wishing all my customers a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year

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

Late opening on Friday, 20th December ’til 9 pm

New stock just arrived… in ladies’ wear and children’s wear Call in over the festive season for a chat, a cuppa and a browse! We look forward to seeing you!

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Marie Gunning, Carol Kelly, Siobhan Menton and Florence Hanly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Martin’s Bar na d’Taoisigh BALLYGAR Props.: Pat & Carmel Gilmore Season’s greetings to one and all from

FH Consultant Engineers Ltd. The Square, Ballygar, Co. Galway Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Marian Kelly, Mary Murray and Margaret Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were Shay Cleary, Pauline Coleman and Geraldine Coyne. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Tel.: (0906) 624483 Mobile: 087 6103444

Email: fhconsultantengineers@gmail.com - Assigned Certification - Planning Permissions - Snag Lists - Private & Commercial Building Design - Building site surveys & Inspections - Fire Safety Certs - Land surveying and mapping

- Mortage Certification - Project Management - Structural Surveys - Traffic Engineering - Legal and Accident Reports - Disability Access Certs - Agricultural Building Design

For all your building and design services

Prop: Brian Finneran B.E. M.I.E.I.

Fallons BAR Ballygar Telephone: 090 66 24674

Christmas Entertainment December 14th:

J+S Sound (Above and below) Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir concert with special guests, the Choir of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, at St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday evening were some of the students from Colaiste Mhuire, Ballygar. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

December 21st:

Joe Cleary December 28th:

Frank Nelson December 31st: New Year’s Eve

Patsy McCaul FOOD SERVED DAILY Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas from John & Noeleen Thank you for your support in 2019

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote/Fuerty OPEN Monday 23rd & 30th December

Festive spirit to the fore in  DAN DOONER

People in Athleague and Castlecoote are busy preparing for Christmas this week with much to celebrate in the general area. 2019 was yet another very successful year for the beautiful village of Castlecoote, with another gold medal success in the national Tidy Towns competition. Meanwhile, last weekend, and fresh from national success at the recent IPB Pride of Place awards, the Athleague 2020 Group staged a Christmas Experience event in the village. The Athleague 2020 Group is an umbrella committee under which local businesses, clubs and groups can come together. It was established in conjunction with the Local Area Development Plan earlier this year. Group spokesperson, Michael Hourigan, said last weekend’s event was a resounding success. “We had a very special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus last weekend as part of our very successful and environmentally conscious Christmas Ex-

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Les Petites Tartres Café Restaurant Main St, Athleague ● Tel: 090 6663343

Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9 am to 5.30 pm - Sunday 10.30 am to 5 pm

Email: lespetitestartres@gmail.com Facebook: Les Petites Tartres Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas & Prosperous New Year from Tommie, Michael and all at

ulhern Bro Agri Contractors Ltd.

Kilmore, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Telephone: Tommie: (087) 9009067 Michael: (087) 1422312

Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas from

Liam Heaney Livestock Carrier CASTLECOOTE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Telephone:

086 2564778

Keane’s • Athleague

CRACKING CHRISTMAS

CRACKING OFFER

ANY

2 FOR

€9

€6

MIX ‘N’ MATCH

McVitie’s Victoria 550g/ Family Circle 900g, €12.50/ kg - €5.56/kg €5.00 each ANY

2 FOR

€15

MIX ‘N’ MATCH

VALID 12TH – 15TH DEC

Las Moras Dadá Malbec was €13.00 now €10.00, Grifón Prosecco/Rosé Frizzante was €11.99 now €9.00, Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc was €14.99 now €11.00

Centra Fresh Irish Lamb Leg With Garlic Butter 1.23kg - €10.24/kg was €18.80 now €12.60

SAVE 33%

Jacob’s Afternoon Tea/Elite Kimberley/Chocolate Mikado/ USA Tin 616g – 1kg (See instore for details)

2 FOR €20.00

Centra Fresh Irish Stewing Beef Twin Pack 2 x 400g - €7.50/kg

KittenSoft Quilted Dreams Toilet Tissue 16 Roll was €8.00

ONLY €6.00

Aresti Estate Selection Pablo Old Vine Garnacha 75cl was €17.99 now €9.00 Selected Range was €10.99

HALF PRICE

€7.00 EACH

Smirnoff Vodka 70cl RRP €26.00

Jack Daniel’s Whiskey 70cl

ONLY €15.00

ONLY €25.00

All offers Valid Thursday 12th - Wednesday 18th December, unless otherwise stated. In Keane’s Athleague only. See instore for full details. Customer quotas may apply.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote/Fuerty

Athleague and Castlecoote perience in Athleague. The Suck Valley Visitors’ Centre was transformed into a ‘Winter Wonderland’ – ‘Santa by the Suck’ is what we called it. “There were activity stations such as face-painting, arts and crafts, bun decoration, our Christmas Wish Tree and story telling with Mrs. Claus. We also had hot chocolate and an environmentally conscious gift for each child. “The Festive Window competition is ongoing and is proving to be very popular. The children of Athleague National School will be judging that and will be picking the winner in coming weeks. “We also have an ongoing Elf hunt in the village called ’12 Elves of Christmas’ where local businesses supply an entry sheet and children can bring mam and dad around the village hunting for the elves in shop windows. To be in with a chance of winning a prize, children write down each elf’s name and what they’re doing in each shop window, and the winners will be announced on

Christmas Eve!” Christmas in Athleague officially kicked off when Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived in the village under Garda escort last Saturday. Rumour has it that so impressed where they by the village, they enjoyed some much-needed R&R at The Bridge House on Saturday night before sticking around the following day. Michael said: “It was an overwhelming success and there was major demand for tickets throughout the weekend. Santa visited local businesses too and there were plenty of photographs on social media! “We then had a Christmas Carol Service in The Bridge House on Sunday night with the kids from Athleague NS providing the singing. That was a fundraiser for Pieta House and it was a successful evening. “It’s all thanks to a fantastic voluntary group with Ann McNeela who keeps it all together. I must also mention Grace Naughton, owner of Ros Wedding Rental who came on board with displays and really

Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas from

Damien Grehan

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES SEAI Approved for Heating Upgrades Renewable Solar Panel Installation Energy Air to Water Heat Pump System

Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Mobile: 086 3662922 Tel: 090 6623467 Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

PJ’s

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

Friday 13th December:

CHRISTMAS SING ALONG FEATURING

The Nightingales

Loads of prizes on the night and proceeds are going to the Cancer Care Support (Volunteers)

Sunday 15th December:

Santa

Arrives at 6pm on his Sleigh

Sunday 22nd December:

Tidy Towns Annual Christmas Draw Music by Joachim at 9.30pm

MUSIC SESSIONS CONTINUE EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT

All musicians and singers welcome to come along!

helped to transform the visitors’ centre last weekend. “A big thank you too to Lynn Naughton of Seams Sew Simple who brought along some of her beautiful festive patchwork quilts. “Finally, the hard work of Graham and Cathy Wood at the Suck Valley Visitors’ Centre must also be acknowledged. It was a real

team effort!” A very successful year might be coming to an end for the picturesque village, but Michael says there’s still plenty more to come in the run-up to Christmas. “Athleague is very much open for business this Christmas and we have plenty of local shops, eateries and services to attract shoppers from all over Roscommon and

further afield. The village is looking impeccable this year and we have plenty more developments to look forward to in 2020 and beyond,” he concluded. Meanwhile, Santa Claus will be making his way to Castlecoote this Sunday following his recent successful sojourn to neighbouring Athleague (see separate article).

Season’s greetings to one and all from

Your Heart, Your Home, Your Kitchen – Luxury Kitchens for every budget Visit our showrooms on the Galway Road or call 090 66 63555 “Professional Service and advice provided” Neff Master Partners

Visit our website:www.naughtonkitchens.com Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Congratulations to all in C Athleague on your All-Ireland Pride of Place 2019 Win www.mimarmedia.ie Email us at info@mimarmedia.ie ATHLEAGUE, ROSCOMMON 090 6663731

Season’s greetings to one and all from

First Steps Montessori

Locals at Gaelic Voices for Change Workshop Five young members of Athleague-Tremane GAA were in Croke Park on Saturday, November the 16th to attend the inaugural ‘Gaelic Voices for Change’ (GVFC) youth workshop which is supported by both the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) and the Women’s Gaelic Players Association (WGPA). Michael Corcoran, Oisín Mullen, Josh Reddington, Eabha Dowd and Anna

Murray took part in talks, workshops and panel discussions in an event that was facilitated with the help of ‘Webwise’, an organisation that promotes the autonomous, effective, and safer use of the internet by young people through a sustained information and awareness strategy targeting parents, teachers, and children themselves with consistent and relevant messages.

Santa for Castlecoote this Sunday Santa Claus will be making his way to Castlecoote this Sunday fo following his recent successful sojourn to neighbourin neighbouring Athleague. Mr. Claus is due in PJ’s Bar and Lounge in picturCastlec esque Castlecoote this Sunday at 6 pm, and propriNaugh says it’s all part of a busy period etor PJ Naughton in the area. “This Friday we have a fundraiser for the Cancer voluntee with music from The Nightingales Care volunteers S and then on Saturday we have a 25 Card game with turkeys and hams up for grabs. “Santa himself will be here on Sunday at 6 pm and the following Sunday we will have the annual Castlecoote Tidy Towns draw for Christmas hampers and music by local favourite Joachim. Our Tuesday music sessions will also be continuing over the next few weeks. “So a busy build-up to Christmas and we’re inviting everyone along for what promise to be nights of great entertainment,” he said.

Athleague

Contact Dervela 087-1093099 Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

GERRY GILL Motors

Crash Repairs ● Sales & Service Fuerty, Roscommon Tel/Fax: (090) 66 26536 Gerry: (086) 8162964 Gerard: (086) 2254731 follow us on facebook www.gerrygillmotors.ie

Wishing all our customers & friends a very Happy Christmas & Peaceful New Year from Pauline, Gerry, Aishling, Michelle and staff at

P&G Cards Ltd.

Athleague,Co. Roscommon Tel: 090 6663802 www.pandgcards.com Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and thank you for your loyal support throughout the year from

Shane Naughton AGRI & PLANT HIRE Mobile: (087) 9858804

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote/Fuerty The Bridge House Athleague Friday 13th & 20th

CHRISTMAS CARD GAME Sunday 22nd

THE FEATHERHEADS 7pm-9pm St Stephens Night

HOOLIE FOR HOSPICE Fundraiser for Mayo Roscommon Hospice

Sunday 30th

SHANE MOORE 7pm-9pm

Who will you spend Christmas with? I will spend Christmas with my partner and my aunt from next door. We are looking forward to a nice quiet Christmas. Do you have any Christmas traditions in your house? I would usually go to Mass on Christmas Eve. Then on Christmas Day we would have a traditional dinner with turkey, stuffing and the rest. Before the dinner myself and my partner like to take a nice walk down the

Friday 3rd

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year *Athleague All Ireland pride of place winners 2019*

Enquiries: (090) 66 63534/(087) 8133406/(087) 6598078

Season’s greetings to one and all from

Castlecoote Stores Opening hours: 7am to 11pm - 7 days a week

TEL: 090 66 63394 Season’s greetings to one and all from

The Leyden family would like to wish all their customers and friends a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous 2020

Castlecoote Lodge BAR AND LOUNGE

Castlecoote, Roscommon Saturday, 14th December:

Live music from 8pm with

Blackwater Mulled Wine & Mince Pies

Charity evening in aid of Focus Ireland Friday, 20th December:

Christmas Trad Session from 10pm Saturday, 21st December:

Customer Appreciation Night Entertainment by DJ Cush Sunday, 22nd December:

Monster 25 Card Game Tons of prizes - from 7pm Monday, 23rd December from 10pm:

Castlecoote Tidy Towns Draw Thursday, 26th December:

Live Music/Open Mic For Wren Boys - all day

Bog Road. Then we normally eat at around two o’clock.

Who’s on your naughty list this year? I would probably pick (Donald) Trump. I don’t like talking about politics or anything like that but I would pick him to go on the Naughty List.

What three people (living or deceased) would you have at your fantasy Christmas Dinner? I would choose my family over in France. I would have my mum, dad, brother, sister and the rest of my family over. They have visited Ireland before and they really enjoyed it so if I could choose anyone it would be my family.

Fancy some warm mince pies and mulled wine? Come along to Castlecoote Lodge this coming Saturday night (December 14th) in aid of Focus Ireland. Live music will be provided by Blackwater duo Patricia McGarry and Mark Griffiths, commencing at 8 pm. 25 Card games continue each Sunday evening, commencing at 7 pm. Prizes are sponsored by the proprietors. There will be a Monster 25 Card game on Sunday, December 22nd with lots of prizes on offer. The third Friday of the month (December 20th) is Christmas Trad Session night when there will be wonderful traditional music, song and dance and a Christmas party atmosphere

All parties catered for

GAA Club

Les Petites Tartres

Who deserves presents this year? I think the children that need care and love should get presents. When I say that I mean the children who live in poorer countries that have a tough life. I don’t need presents but I think people – especially children in poor countries – do.

Christmas Season at Castlecoote Lodge

ANNUAL TREMANE DRAW AND CARD GAME

ATHLEAGUE

Anita Bruneteau

C hristmas People

in appreciation of the musicians, singers and performers who provided such great entertainment throughout the year. Saturday, December 21st is Customer Appreciation Night with lots of party food, spot prizes and entertainment by DJ Cush. Don’t miss this fun night! Who doesn’t like to win a Christmas Hamper? Be sure to enter the draw for Castlecoote Tidy Towns Hamper which takes place in Castlecoote Lodge on Monday, December 23rd at 10 pm. In keeping with tradition, there will be live music in the Lodge on St. Stephen’s Day with Open Mic for the Wrenboys all day.

C hristmas Lynn Naughton People ‘Seams Sew Simple’ Who will you spend Christmas with? I will be spending Christmas with my family. Our three children Millie, Carl and Emily will all be home so I will spend it with them and my husband Seamus. Are there any particular Christmas traditions in your house? One tradition we would have in our house is that we would all go out for a meal on Christmas Eve. Then we would do the usual things that people do during Christmas such as decorating the tree and opening our presents! If you could invite three people (alive or from the past) over for Christmas Dinner, who would you choose? That’s a tough question. I would pick Rod Stewart because I like his music and I have always been a fan of his. I would also invite Bill Gates as he seems a very interesting man who has done a lot. I honestly can’t pick a third person. It’s hard to know who to pick because I will definitely leave someone out or forget someone! What is the best thing about the build-up to Christmas? For me the best thing about the buildup to Christmas is putting the tree up. We have ours up over a week. We put one in the kitchen and one in the living room. It’s very Christmassy in our house. It’s a nice time of the year; we love that Christmas feeling. And the worst? The traffic is annoying in the buildup to Christmas whether you go to

Roscommon, Athlone or Galway. It is quite bad in Galway around this time of year. Another thing that is difficult is the shopping and trying to pick out presents for people. It can be challenging to know what to get, especially when it comes to buying shoes. It’s tough to figure out what is a comfortable shoe for someone else! Who would you have on the Naughty List? I think a lot of politicians could end up on the Naughty List but Donald Trump would definitely be my pick. He seems very full of himself all the time and I think he is a bad decision maker. His Twitter account is awful and someone needs to stop him from using social media! Who deserves presents this year? I think a lot of people are deserving but I feel that all the hard-working people in Athleague should get presents this year, especially after winning the ‘Pride of Place’ award. The people in the community have worked very hard and they would be my pick. What is the one thing that people should get from ‘Seams Sew Simple’ this Christmas? I would advise people to get in touch and to take part in a sewing class. People can come along and start a new, interesting hobby. We have personalised classes so we can organise them to suit your needs. Sewing is a nice hobby to have and it can help people relax. Interview: Ivan Smyth

Congratulations to Olivia Molloy, Athleague, Co. Roscommon who recently graduated with a First Class Honours in Bs. Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science.

Season’s greetings to one and all from

Dalton’s Pub Fuerty, Co. Roscommon m

Entertainment 5 nights over Xmas PAGE – Daltons Public Housee

WEEKEND PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Laura Fleming, Pat Compton, Aidan Brady, Seamus Sweeney, Sean Mulryan,Tadhg O Rourke, Michaela Fallon and Pat Nolan pictured at London City Island. Photos: Daniel Lynch.

Club Rossie launches ‘Win a Home in London’  SEAMUS DUKE

A year on from the very successful ‘Win a House in Dublin’ competition, Club Rossie are running another very ambitious fundraiser called ‘Win a Home in London’. This is to raise funds for the redevelopment of Dr. Hyde Park and the development of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence. The prize this time is a two-bedroomed apartment worth €815,000 in one of London’s most culturally rich new neighbourhoods, London City Island.

Tickets are priced at €100 and are available online now at www.winahomeinlondon.com. The draw will take place on Sunday, May 10th 2020, a week after Roscommon are due to travel to London for their first game of the 2020 GAA Football Championship. Roscommon is the home county of Sean Mulryan, Group Chief Executive of Ballymore, the developers of London City Island, who has long been a supporter of Roscommon GAA. Commenting on the competition, he said: “I am very pleased to be able to support the competition which will

raise vital money for the redevelopment of Dr. Hyde Park and the development of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in Roscommon. I wish all of the participants the best of luck”. Pat Compton, Chairperson of Club Rossie, said: “Last year’s ‘Win a House in Dublin’ competition made an incredible impact on Roscommon GAA. “The competition grossed €1.4 million and netted €943,000 once all expenses, including marketing and the purchase of the house, were covered – so it really was phenomenal. It put Roscommon GAA finances in a strong position

going forward to proceed with our two main projects: the redevelopment of Dr. Hyde Park and the proposed Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence,” he concluded. Aidan Brady, the newly-appointed Commercial Director of Roscommon GAA, said: “Due to the success of the last competition and together with the amazing support of Sean Mulryan and Ballymore, we decided to run another house competition with a twist to ensure that future generations of Roscommon GAA will be debt-free and have a sporting ground and centre of

excellence that they can be proud of”. Seamus Sweeney, the Chairperson of Roscommon GAA, said: “The GAA is a vital part of the community in County Roscommon. It’s what we all have in common and is an integral part of our past and everyday lives. To be able to give all our teams the best opportunities to compete going forward requires huge financial backing. The recent efforts of our volunteers to raise vital funds has been just remarkable and their commitment to see these two major projects underway is hugely admirable.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

GOING OUT

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

The Roscommon VEC ‘Class of 1987’ recently celebrated a 32-year reunion, held in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon. Pictured were Sharon Fetherstone, Kay O’Connor and Rita Moran. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The Roscommon VEC ‘Class of 1987’ recently celebrated a 32-year reunion, held in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon. Pictured were Ailish Boyd, Mary Daniels, Veronica Lynch, Caitriona Donnellan, Kay O’Connor, Sharon Fetherstone, Rebecca Naughton and Rita Moran. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Hamrock’s

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 14th December:

Henry + The Usual Suspects Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year from ...

JJ Harlow’s

The Roscommon VEC ‘Class of 1987’ recently celebrated a 32-year reunion, held in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon. Pictured were Tomas Naughton, Colm Kilcline, Sean Gately and Brendan Murray. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The Roscommon VEC ‘Class of 1987’ recently celebrated a 32-year reunion, held in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon. Pictured were Alister Kilmartin, Niall Donnellan and Frank Kilcommons. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Telephone: 090 6626225 Friday 13th December

DJ Eoin

10PM

Saturday 14th December 10PM

THE HARTONES Sunday 15th December

The Roscommon VEC ‘Class of 1987’ recently celebrated a 32-year reunion, held in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon. Pictured were the organising committee of Michael Murray, Mary Daniels, Rebecca Naughton and Martin Smythe. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The Roscommon VEC ‘Class of 1987’ recently celebrated a 32-year reunion, held in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon. Pictured were Michael Fallon, Michael Murray and Martin Smythe. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The Roscommon VEC ‘Class of 1987’ recently celebrated a 32-year reunion, held in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon. Pictured were Liam Boyd, Rebecca Mullen, Ailish Boyd and Frank Kilcommons. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The Roscommon VEC ‘Class of 1987’ recently celebrated a 32-year reunion, held in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon. Pictured were Oliver Cunningham, John Devine and Dermot McDermott. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Kara and the Klass 6PM IN THE MIDDLE BAR JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries i

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

GOING OUT

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

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Lee Bastic, Lesley Wingfield, Marie and Richard Carberry. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Gretchen McDonald and James Horan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

National Live Aid Ireland event (for Simon Community) JJ Harlow’s, Roscommon

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Caitriona Doolan and Sharon Reynolds. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Derek Allen, Mark and Claire Hanley and Lisa Allen. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were sisters Shirley Donoghue, Joanna Cronin, Deirdre Mannion and Mary Clare Mannion. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Karen McLoughlin, Janet Finneran and Edel Beirne. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Helen and Declan Casey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Sarah and Claire Bartle. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Mary Cox, Carol McLoughlin, Donal, Ruth and Nancy Cox. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in JJ Harlow’s on Saturday night were Nick Brennan, Sinead Finn, Michael and Paul Donoghue. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

GOING OUT

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

Pictured at the Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music in Glenamaddy were Patrick Walsh, Nigel Cassidy and Brendan Keaveney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music in Glenamaddy were Anne Marie Curtin, Mary Naughton and Helena Donoghue. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music in Glenamaddy were Cathal Moran, Alannah Grehan, Tara Brady and Lauren Fahey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Glenamaddy Musical Society stages The Sound of Music…

Pictured at the Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music in Glenamaddy were Pictured at the Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music in Glenamaddy were Helen Tully, Patricia Keady, Sinead Shanks, Anne Marie Curtin Bernard and Carmel Mahe. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh and Andrea Walsh-Farrell. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music in Glenamaddy were Saoirse Higgins, Jordan Raftery and Laura Keaveney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music in Glenamaddy were Helen Farley, Elizabeth Devine and Marian Keaveney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Glenamaddy Musical Society’s production of The Sound of Music in Glenamaddy were Tony and Mary Brady. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

WeekendPeople BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: E. Kelly & M. Dermody, 2nd: P. & S. Cooney, Gross: L. Shine & L. Curley. East/ West – 1st: T. Murphy & L. Curley, 2nd: G. Neilan & J. Adamson, Gross: C. Ansboro & C. McGrath. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club Scratch Cup (Session 1) – 1st: P. Mellett & J. Adamson, 2nd: L. Curley & P. Cooney, 3rd: M. & T. O’Keeffe. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: S. Hickey & E. Mulry, 2nd: E. Kelly & M. Dermody, Gross: E. Curley & J. O’Gara. East/ West – 1st: N. Costello & C. McGrath, 2nd: G. Kenny & M. Fallon, Gross: K. Dowd & C. Ansboro. Ballymurry Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1st: M. Hickey & R. Roughneen, 2nd: J. O’Gara & G. Bannon, Gross: V. & P. Finneran. East/West – 1st: J. Devaney & G. Spillane, 2nd: J. Adamson & C. Browne, Gross: P. Pierse & B. Weir. Section B North/South – 1st: T. McManus & M. McSharry, 2nd: A. Gaffney & J. Hunt, Gross: M. Naughton & K. Gately. East/West – 1st: H. Earley & S. Hickey, 2nd: K. Coyle & M. Dolan, Gross: F. Keane & B. Gillooly. Section C – 1st: P. Connolly & J. O’Beirne, 2nd: J. Farrell & P. Lyons, 3rd: J. Moran & K. Moran.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION John questions Jesus from prison in today’s Gospel – for his disciples’ sake and for ours. He knows that Jesus is doing “the works of the Messiah,” foretold in today’s First Reading and Psalm. But John wants his disciples and us to know that the Judge is at the gate, that in Jesus our God has come to save us. The liturgy of Advent takes us out into the desert to see and hear the marvellous works and words of God – the lame leaping like a stag, the dead raised, the good news preached to the poor (see Isaiah 29:18–20; 61:1–2). The liturgy does this to give us courage, to strengthen our feeble hands and make firm our weak knees. Our hearts can easily become frightened and weighed down by the hardships we face. We can lose patience in our sufferings as we await the coming of the Lord. As James advises in today’s Epistle, we should take as our example the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Jesus also points us to a prophet – holding up John as a model. John knew that life was more than food, the body more than clothing. He sought the kingdom of God first, confident that God would provide (see Matthew 6:25–34). John did not complain. He did not lose faith. Even in chains in his prison cell, he was still sending his disciples – and us – to our Saviour. We come to Him again now in the Eucharist. Already He has caused the desert to bloom, the burning sands to become springs of living water. He has opened our ears to hear the words of the sacred book, freed our tongue to fill the air with songs of thanksgiving (see Isaiah 30:18). Once bowed down, captives to sin and death, we have been ransomed and returned to His kingdom, crowned with everlasting joy. Raised up we now stand before His altar to meet the One who is to come: “Here is your God”. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory. com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church).

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S

unique take on life ...

Taking the long way home It’s Saturday evening, and I’ve come to the end of my two-day working week. Normally I would be flying out the door, getting ready to hit to my home village of Creggs. Not so this evening, as our rugby lads are coming to Athlone to play the Buccaneers, and with the 7 pm kick-off, I have a little time to kill. The first thing I do, much I would think to my doctor’s delight, is slip around the corner to Savio’s chipper and treat myself to the most wonderful fish and chips. Having almost devoured the packaging and all, I then decided to hit for The Bounty, which is the pub in the grounds of the rugby club. Even though it was early evening, it was absolutely packed. The Munster match against Saracens was being shown, as was the Manchester soccer derby (which, by the way, United won), food was being served, and the atmosphere was just great. I ran into some former Athlone rugby greats like Pat Hynes and Ray Flanagan, and had mighty craic reminiscing about tales of bygone days. We talked of many late nights after games, and escapades which would almost certainly get us arrested nowadays. Along with our own club stalwarts, Bill Flynn, who soldiered with Athlone for many years, Adrian Leddy, and Anthony Duignan, I really enjoyed it, and I couldn’t believe when it was time for kick off in what was a vi-

tal league match. As I walked down to the pitch the wind was howling like a mad dog, and the rain was blowing down the field in waves, and I wondered whether the match would take place at all. I needn’t have worried, as right on time the two teams took the field, and, remarkably, treated us to an absorbing and exciting contest. Creggs won with a bit to spare, but for long periods we were defending desperately on or near our own line, and if ever a scoreline gave a false reflection on a game, this one did. All I can say is that both sets of

players deserve great credit for making light of appalling conditions and serving up such a high quality, competitive, battle. Game over, it was still not time to head for Creggs, as out in Ned’s Bar in Knockcroghery, Carol’s niece, Anouska, who (along with her husband Richard) is the proprietor, was hosting a gathering of the Kelly Clan, of which Carol is a member. So, a little late, I called in to see what was happening. This night had it all…loads of wonderful food, great music with one of our former rugby stars, Ballintubber’s

Pictured at the launch of the St. Stephen’s Day Creggs Charity Walk (in aid of Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice, Galway Hospice, Creggs Senior Citizens Annual Party and the Sunshine Rooms, Creggs NS) in O’Roarke’s last Friday night were Lorraine Conlon, Olivia Smith and Sally Garvey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The bills that weigh us down! One of the things we often wonder about, is how despite the fact that times were supposed to be hard, people in the 1950s and ‘60s always seemed to have enough money to go to the pubs. Even though there were loads more pubs around the country, they always seemed to be full. Not only that, they opened early in the morning, had a steady day trade, and were as likely to be busy on a Monday night as on Saturday, and you would hardly ever hear of a pub closure. And so I think it’s bills (or the lack of them back then) that has made the difference. Just now I have come up with a list of household bills that we all have to pay nowadays. There’s

the TV license, Internet, property tax, Sky TV, ESB, water, waste, road tolls, car insurance, car tax…all bills that find their way through our letter boxes, along with the mortgage repayments and house insurance. Soon our septic tanks will have to be brought up to scratch, and by the time you (or me) have paid all that lot, is it any wonder we are only able to socialise occasionally? I’m sure I’ve missed out on quite a few other regular bills, such as dog licences, etc., but a lot of them didn’t exist when I was a young lad, so it’s not hard to figure out how there seems to have been more disposable income back then.

Kevin Garvey, top class porter, and even better company, and the extended Kelly families came from all over. However, we had to leave a little prematurely, as our own GAA club’s end of season social was on in Dolan’s new pub that night as well. It always happens that on most Saturday nights there’s nothing at all on, but then you get a night when everything is on. Is that Murphy’s law? Thankfully, our designated driver was on hand, and, so we hit for Creggs and got there to find that the crowd was huge. The St. Ciaran’s U-20s, who had earlier in the evening won the county final, were there with the cup, and heartiest congratulations to them. The music and porter were excellent as well, and it too had all the hallmarks of a most enjoyable night. The young and adult player of the year awards were then presented, with the young player award going to Ronan Dowd, who had earlier starred in the county final victory. Then to our great delight the adult award went to Paul Brandon, who happens to be our son, and who can now claim to be the best footballer in our household. I don’t have to tell you that both myself and Mark would have something to say about that, but, anyway, well done to both players, who are very worthy winners.

Festive bingo… Hot on the heels of the Government’s big bingo u-turn, Ger Dowd tells me that on this Friday night (13th) there is a big festive Bingo – with loads of prizes – in the national school in Creggs (from 8 pm). There will be spot prizes and a raffle on the night, with the chance to win lots of money for Christmas, and also a chance to meet all your friends and neighbours, so keep Friday night free and head to the school for a great night’s entertainment. Hopefully I will see you there.

And finally… Finally for this week, and back to Dowd’s in Glinsk, where a few weeks ago we presented the proceeds (€5,430) of our recent fundraising dance to representatives of the Lourdes Invalid Fund and Cancer Care West, namely Danny Burke and Dave O’Donnell. However, for Dave and CCW there was quite a big surprise in store because three local Glinsk residents – Tom Lally, Margaret Morris and Tom Ward – all had held or taken part in different events and all had cheques to present to Dave on the night. It was a privilege to be there. We had a lovely evening, and it is a credit to the people of Creggs and Glinsk that a very large amount of money was handed over to two such worthy charities. Well done to everyone involved, and here’s to next year.

Till next week, Bye for now!

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

FarmingPeople

Galway and Roscommon to be included in new Peat Region – Naughten Deputy Denis Naughten says he has received reassurances from EU Commission representatives that both Roscommon and East Galway will be part of the new EU Midland Peat Region, which will be able to access a potential EU fund of up to €5bn. Deputy Naughten said: “At the meeting with EU Commission representatives, who were visiting Ireland as part of their work to assist with a plan for job retention and creation across the midland counties, I specifically raised concerns that we are not just talking about the midland region. Both county Roscommon & East Gal-

Castlerea Co-operative ve Livestock Mart Ltd.

Roscommon Mart sample prices

email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com PROPERTY SERVICES PROVIDERS LICENCE NO. 002249

THURSDAY, 12TH DECEMBER:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS THURSDAY, 19TH DECEMBER:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS THURSDAY 9TH JANUARY, 2020:

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

Dry cows BBX 845kgs €1470, Lim X 765kgs €1390, Char X 810kgs €1345, Lim X 845kgs €1310, Lim X 815kgs €1280, Char X 765kgs €1260, Lim 760kgs €1140, AAX 710kgs €1140, Lim X 665kgs €1090, Char X 615kgs €1000, Char X 595kgs €935.

Heifers Lim X 640kgs €1420, Char X 625kgs €1360, Lim X 585kgs €1345, Simm X 525kgs 1330, Char X 545kgs €1280, Lim 500kgs €1240, Char X 510kgs €1225, Char X 485kgs €1155, 2 Lim X 472kgs €1130, Lim X 445kgs €1105, Char X 450kgs €1100, Lim X 415kgs €1075, Lim 380kgs €950, Char X 350kgs €935, Char X 460kgs €1240.

Bullocks Char X 600kgs €1420, Char 615kgs €1415, Char X 580kgs €1390, Char X 510kgs €1360, Char X 515kgs €1345, Char X 490kgs €1335, Char X 475kgs €1210, 2 AAX 552kgs €1200, AAX 510kgs €1140, Char X 460kgs €1135, AAX 450kgs €1100, Char X 440kgs €1100, Char X 430kgs €1035, Simm X 460kgs €1090, Lim X 375kgs €1000.

Weanling heifers

Wishing all our customers a Merry Chriﬆmas and Properous 2020. FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

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JOHN GREENE

TOM ROGERS

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

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

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their relevant local authority so that it could be considered as part of the overall plan. “During the discussion I outlined proposals to support short, medium and long-term job creation across our region, focusing on the strengths of the region from farming to tourism to software development. “While our primary focus must be on Bord na Móna, ESB staff and the businesses relying on the local spend from this employment, it is also important that we look to those who are currently in school to make sure that they have the opportunity to live and work in our local area into the future”.

Roscommon People MART WATCH

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300

BALLINASLOE

way, which are part of the western region, must also be included due to the impact of job losses locally. “The Commission representatives made it very clear that they were fully aware of the impact in Roscommon and East Galway and that both areas would be included in the EU’s designated Peat Region”. The Roscommon-Galway TD stated that EU officials made it clear that they wanted to develop a plan that would be driven by the local communities, rather than a top-down approach. The EU officials also encouraged communities to feed their proposals and ideas through

Lim X 340kgs €1040 - €3.05 per kilo, Lim X

470kgs €960 - €2.59 per kilo, Lim X 290kgs €920 €3.17 per kilo, Char X 340kgs €910 - €2.67 per kilo, Char X 290kgs €900 - €3.10 per kilo, Char X 360kgs €900 - €2.50 per kilo, Lim X 330kgs €856 - €2.62 per kilo, Lim X 290kgs €790 - €2.72 per kilo, Char X 300kgs €820 - €2.73 per kilo, Char X 245kgs €685 - €2.85 per kilo, Char X 275kgs €700 - €2.54 per kilo.

Weanling bulls BBX 490kgs €1200 - €2.44 per kilo, Lim 405kgs €1000 - €2.46 per kilo, Char X 395kgs €980 - €2.48 per kilo, Char X 355kgs €900 - €2.53 per kilo, Lim X 305kgs €865 - €2.83 per kilo, 2 Char X 337.5kgs €855 - €2.53 per kilo, Char X 275kgs €890 - €3.23 per kilo, Char X 280kgs €2.85 per kilo, Char X 250kgs €750 - €3 per kilo, Lim X 250kgs €650 €2.60 per kilo, Char X 280kgs €800 - €2.85 per kilo.

Finished lambs 56kgs €115, 56.8kgs €115, 56kgs €114, 51kgs €112, 53kgs €112, 50.9kgs €110, 51.9kgs €110, 46.5kgs €108.

Store lambs 42.3kgs €87, 40.5kgs €85, 39kgs €85, 40.1kgs €85, 39.3kgs €80, 37.3kgs €79.

Manager’s report… Brendan Egan, Castlerea Mart “There were 700 cattle on offer this past week with increased confidence evident, resulting in a better trade and bigger prices. This was driven by increased farmer activity and agents trying to source quality store cattle as the end of the trading year beckons. “The heifer trade reported an excellent clearance with some strong prices paid for the quality lots. Weanling heifers noted price increases this week also while the bull ring was similar to last week. “The dry cow trade remained strong with big numbers still on offer while breeding stock and the bullock ring recorded excellent clearance. “Cows with calves at foot made from €1,160 while springers made from €630 to €1,750 per head. Good numbers on offer this week with prices ranging from €250 to €770 per head for the continental lots on offer. “Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on this evening (Thursday) with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am with three rings in operation”.

Manager’s report… Maura Quigley, Roscommon Mart “There was a good entry top quality stock on offer at Friday’s weekly sale with improved prices and plenty of customers actively sourcing stock. Bullocks averaged from €2.18 per kilo up to €2.72 per kilo. Heifers ranged from an average of €2.20 per kilo up to €2.69 per kilo. Dry cows averaged from €1.43 per kilo up to €1.81 per kilo. “Please note that this Friday (December 13th) is our final sale of the year for bullocks, heifers and dry cows. “There were similar numbers on offer this week with prices remaining firm. Weanling heifers made from an average of €2.50 per kilo up to €3.17 while weanling bulls averaged from €2.35 per kilo up to €3.23 per kilo. Springers made from €1,100 up to €1,700. Cows with calves at foot fetched from €1,530 up to €1,700. There were good numbers of customers in attendance with a good demand for both heifers and bulls. “There was a smaller entry of sheep on offer at today’s sale with a strong demand for both lambs and cast ewes. Finished lambs made up to €115 for 56 kilo. Sheep sales continue on Wednesdays at 11 am for lambs and cast ewes. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set”.

Castlerea Mart sample prices Heifers BBx 390kgs €1325, Sim 390kgs €1020, Ch 460kgs €1160, Lmx 470kgs €1140, Lm 635kgs €1375, Six 780kgs €1500, Ch 625kgs €1350, Ch 495kgs €1150.

Dry cows Lmx 780kgs €1420, Lm 710kgs €1380, Fr 480kgs €550, Ch 820kg €1475, Hex 730kgs €1285, Lm 710kgs €1380.

Weanling bulls Ch 295kgs €850 Lm 295kgs €800 Ch 270kgs €715 Ch 405kgs

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

€955 AA 445kgs €955 Ch 425kgs €980.

Weanling heifers Lmx 275kgs €850, Lm 250kgs €810, Ch 260kgs €805, Lm 345kgs €945, Ch 330kgs €925, Ch 305kgs €860.

Bullocks Lm 490kgs €1155, Lm 460kgs €1100, AA 425kgs €1055, Ch 515kgs €1300, Lm 520kgs €1270, Lm 555kgs €1240, Ch 600kgs €1275, Ch 590kgs €1225, Lm 675kgs €1335.

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

FarmingPeople

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

Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows Each Friday at 11 a.m. ------------------------------------

Friday, December 13th at 11 a.m.

Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows (Final sale for 2019) ------------------------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Minister Michael Creed

Wednesday, December 18th at 11 a.m.

Minister Creed conﬁrms commencement of payments The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed, this week confirmed that payments under the 2019 Beef Data and Genomics Programmes as well as balancing ANC payments have now commenced. The Minister stated: “I am pleased that payments have commenced for the fifth year of the innovative Beef Data and Genomics Programme which will bring about reductions in Ireland’s greenhouse gas

emissions while also introducing genetic technology into the national herd thus improving farm profitability. Payments worth more than €17.5 million have already issued and will continue over the coming days to participating farmers who have verified their compliance with the 2019 requirements”. Meanwhile, confirming the commencement of balancing payments under the 2019 Areas of Nat-

Bóthar Auction in Curraghboy raises over €5,000 A fundraising auction and raffle was held in McDermott’s Lounge, Curraghboy recently. The main event of the evening was an auction of livestock and other items. A raffle was held in conjunction with the event. Four in-calf heifers were purchased from the recent fundraising activities of the Cam Bóthar Committee and the many private donations received. These heifers were part of a consignment that left Ireland in November last, and have now arrived to their host families in Kosovo, in Eastern Europe. PJ Finnerty, Chairman of Cam Bóthar Committee, thanked all those who donated the animals and other items for auction. He also acknowledged the people who sponsored the raffle prizes and those who gave private donations. Mr. Finnerty thanked the McDermott family for hosting the auction and their generous support of Bóthar in purchasing a heifer, Pat The Man for the musical entertainment and in particular all those who attended on the night and who helped to make this annual event such a success. A total of €5,012 was raised at the Curraghboy auction.

ural Constraint Scheme, Minister Creed said the payments now bring the total paid under this year’s scheme to almost €238 million to 95,000 farmers. “I am very aware of the importance to farmers of the ANC Scheme, and the budget for the scheme has been increased again this year to €250 million,” he said before urging farmers who had outstanding queries from the Department of Agriculture to respond as quickly as possible.

(Final Sale for 2019) All sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set

We thank you for your custom in 2019 and look forward to your continued support in 2020 -Wishing all our Customers, Shareholders and Friends a Happy Safe Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year

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

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Activities at Cloonycolgan Community Centre Cloonycolgan Community Centre will host the second annual Christmas Craft Fair on Saturday, December the 14th between 1 pm and 5 pm. Tables are €10 each. Local enterprises welcome. Santa Claus will arrive at 2.30 pm. The John B. Keane drama ‘Sive’ will be performed by Kilbegnet Players on Friday, December the 20th at 8 pm in Cloonycolgan Community Centre. Admission €10. The annual Christmas Bazaar and Bingo will be held in Cloonycolgan Community Centre on Monday, December the 23rd at 8 pm with lots of valuable prizes. 50th anniversary celebrations will be held in the centre in May 2020 with a photographic and commemorative booklet being unveiled.

Boost for local social enterprises €42,200 is being allocated for a number of social enterprises across County Roscommon & East Galway which will allow them to invest in a range of areas – including the purchase of new kitchen equipment, computers, training material – or carry out minor refurbishments. The largest grant allocated to the area is for €15,000 which is going to Ballinasloe Area Community Development Ltd., an organisation that is instrumental in driving enterprise development and job creation in the wider Ballinasloe area. Northwest Roscommon CDP, based in Ballaghaderreen, which supports those who are unemployed or those trying to get back into the workforce, is to receive €8,550. The Strokestown Hub Community Café Company Ltd. has been allocated €6,120 to support their work with young people with intellectual disabilities. The hub also offers training to young adults in need of support. Una Bhan Tourism Co-Operative Society which has been a key driver of tourism development in the area and is now helping to support Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands Tourism brand, is to receive €4,995. The County Galway Telework Co-op Society Ltd. in Mountbellew has been allocated €4,620 in funding to support their work assisting voluntary groups and festivals as well as working with older people and the unemployed. The Co-Op is also involved in a tourism initiative known as ‘Galway’s Living Bog’ project. The final successful group is the Kilbride Community Shop which has received €2,915 to support their work in providing a vital community service in a rural area. Welcoming the funding, Deputy Denis Naughten said: “All of these local groups will share in €1m in national funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund, administered by Minister Michael Ring. The objective of this funding is to support local not-for-profit groups who are meeting an identified need in their own local area”. Fine Gael Senator Frank Feighan welcomed the €4,995 in funding for Una Bhan Tourism. Senator Feighan said: “This funding is part of the Small Capital Grants Scheme to help grow and strengthen social enterprises like Una Bhan Tourism”.

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

Property People Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Excellent residence in much acclaimed residential development of Greenﬁelds Sherry Fitzgerald P. Burke is offering for sale No. 40, Greenfields, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon. This is an excellent three-bedroomed midterrace residence in the much acclaimed residential development of Greenfields, one of the most sought after and popular residential estates in Roscommon Town. No. 40, Greenfields is a spacious family home presented in excellent condition throughout. On entering the property, there is a spacious entrance hall, a separate sitting room with timber flooring, a large open plan kitchen/dining room with tiled flooring, separate utility and WC. Upstairs, the accommodation comprises of a main family bathroom and three finesized bedrooms with the master bedroom offering an ensuite and fitted wardrobes. Outside the property contains ample communal parking and a small private garden to the rear. This property is an ideal owner-starter-family-home or investment opportunity due to its convenient location within minutes from a host of local schools, sporting facilities, crèche and Montessori, supermarkets, pubs and parks. Viewing is highly recommended and guaranteed not to disappoint. The BER C1. Asking price is €110,000. Contact P. Burke of Sherry Fitzgerald auctioneers on 090-6627200 or view online at www.sherryfitz.ie/branch/roscommontown. CO. ROSCOMMON

€165,000

CORBALLY, DONAMON, CO. ROSCOMMON

Call 090 662 7200

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON Find out more at mysherryfitz.ie

CO. ROSCOMMON

€140,000

AGHADERRY, LOUGHGLYNN, CO. ROSCOMMON

• Immaculate 3 bed bungalow situated on ½ acre site • Fantastic views of the countryside • Manicured gardens surrounding the property • Large detached shed to the rear. • Idyllic peaceful located only 15 mins from Roscommon Town. BER D2 CALL PADRAIG BURKE: 090 66627200

CO. ROSCOMMON NEW TO THE MARKET €110,000 40 GREENFIELDS, LANESBOROUGH ROAD, ROSCOMMON

• Quality 3 bed mid terrace house in Greenfield Estate • Only 5 min walk from Roscommon Town • Spacious living accommodation • Ideal starter home or investment property • Lovely 3 bed detached two-storey • Situated on c. 1 acre • Beautiful mature gardens • Large sheds to the rear • Heavily insulated throughout CALL PADRAIG BURKE: 090 66627200

• Well maintained estate in desirable location BER C1

BER F

CALL PADRAIG BURKE: 090 66627200

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

Offers above €85,000 invited for prime Strokestown property David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week inviting all offers above €85,000 for a primely located three-bedroomed semi-detached two-storey residence of approx. 1,100 sq.ft. located at 8, Stone Crescent, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. David says: “This is a very attractive three-bedroomed semi-detached residence of approx. 1100 sq.ft. located in the popular ‘Stone Crescent’ development. The said property is finished to a very high standard throughout and therefore, immediate viewing is recommended”. This is an ideal family home or retirement property as it is located within walking distance of the town centre. Enquiries are invited. BER: D1. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579 or email ddiffley@ propertypartners.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

PropertyPeople PROPERTY PARTNERS

Auctioneers & Valuers PSRA no. 001090

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE AT:

CASTLEPARK, CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON

THE RENOWNED SPORTSMAN’S INN PUBLIC HOUSE AND ADJACENT INVESTMENT PROPERTY (TENANT NOT AFFECTED) LOCATED AT Final offers are now being accepted on the old primary school in Curraghroe, Roscommon

Final offers invited for old primary school in Curraghroe Hughes & Company are now accepting final offers on the old primary school in Curraghroe, Roscommon. While the school has not been in use for almost 20 years, it has been well maintained and can easily be converted into residential accommodation subject to planning permission being granted. Accommodation consists of two large

An attractive 2 bedroomed bungalow in a much soughtafter location. Accommodation consists of a Kitchen Cum Dining Room, Sitting Room with Back Boiler, Two Bedrooms and a Bathroom. The residence is situated a short distance from the town centre in a prime location. The residence is in need of some modernisation. For further details or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

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FOR SALE AT: Circa 3 ½ acre site with planning permission for a warehouse at

LANESBORO ROAD, ROSCOMMON

EARLEY

classrooms, cloakrooms, boys and girls toilets and a staff room. The property stands on a circa one-acre site and is located approximately two miles from Lanesboro on the main Lanesboro to Scramogue Road. For further details or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

David Difﬂey’s Sale of the Week David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week advising that he closed the sale of a most attractive two-bedroomed semi-detached bungalow residence located at 3, Oakwood, Hawthorne Drive, Athlone Road, Roscommon for a very satisfactory price. It’s his sale of thr week! “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas. Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”.

ELPHIN STREET, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

PR O TH PER E W TY EE OF K

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

PRSA No. 001481

A rare opportunity to acquire one of the region’s most established and renowned 7 day licensed premises located in the heart of Strokestown and all local amenities. The said property offers character commercial accommodation throughout with 6 bedroom (3 ensuite) over 2 upper floors and carries out a substantial turnover. Standing to the side is a 2 storey residential/investment property of approx. 2,130 sq.ft of which part of the ground floor is presently let on favorable terms to a beauty salon. This is a must view property and the auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and all offers to sell. For further details and trading figures, apply the office. BER: C1 A LUXURY 5 B/R DETACHED 2 STOREY RESIDENCE FINISHED TO A HIGH STANDARD LOCATED AT

11 THE PADDOCK, ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

Price Guide: €215,000.

The site is located in one of Roscommon’s most sought after areas. The site can be sold in one or two lots to suit perspective purchasers. For further details contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

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NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE AT: An attractive 1 bedroomed ground floor apartment located at

GARDEN HOUSE APARTMENTS, ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

Large commercial unit to let Hughes & Company are offering a large commercial unit to let at Lanesboro Road, Roscommon Town. The building comprises of approximately 30,000 sq. ft. of office space and can be let in small units to suit prospective tenants. For further details or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Accommodation consists of an entrance hall into the kitchen-cum-living area, one double bedroom with built-in units and a bathroom. For further details or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Free advice from Pat! If you are thinking of buying or selling, contact Pat Hughes of Hughes & Company, Abbey Street, Roscommon and let him advise you – his advice is free. For details on all properties on offer with Pat Hughes & Company, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Bungalows required in Strokestown area

Accommodation consists of entrance hall into Kitchen cum Living area, 1 Bedroom with Built in units, bathroom and comes with the benefit of 1 Car Parking Space. The apartment is finished to a high standard and is located in one of Roscommon’s most sought after areas convenient to all local amenities. For further details or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are again appealing for bungalows in the general Strokestown area for cash clients and disappointed underbidders. John Earley (FIPAV) stated: “We have experienced a very busy period of house sales over the past number of weeks with a large volume of residential properties being sold

or sale agreed. We are now seeking two-to-fourbedroomed bungalow residences in Strokestown and the general vicinity for cash clients. “We offer a comprehensive pre-market analysis, valuation service and one of the largest databases of potential purchasers in the region to our clients. We advertise in all local and national media and include

all our property on three main websites; www.daft. ie, www.propertypartners. ie and www.myhome.ie”. For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) or David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

FIN

A most attractive and superbly located 5 B/R detached 2 storey residence finished to an extremely high standard. The said property has the benefit for first time buyers who can avail of a tax rebate of 5% off the purchase price for this property. (See help to Buy Scheme for First Time Buyers). Incorporated in the price is €5,000 PC sum to allow for the completion of Kitchen/Utility units and/or wardrobes. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewing and offers to sell. BER: A3 AN ATTRACTIVE 4 B/R SEMI-DETACHED RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

37 OLDWOOD, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN. Final offers after €180,000 to sell.

A IN L O VI FF TE ER D S

House Apartments, Abbey Street, Roscommon, which went on the market recently, is generating a lot of interest.

FIN

This week Hughes & Company are confirming that an attractive one-bedroomed ground floor apartment located at Garden

A IN L O VI FF TE ER D S

Strong interest in apartment located in Roscommon town

A quality 4 B/R semi-detached residence of approx. 1,400 sq.ft located in the established Oldwood development. The said property is presented for sale in excellent condition and benefits from a mature and spacious site area. This is a property that must be viewed to be fully appreciated and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers after €180,000 to sell. BER: C3

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 13 December 2019

Classifieds

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

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS 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

CAREER ADVICE CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6630760

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

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

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Complete Chimney Services

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

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

087 2798704

CHIROPODIST

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

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

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

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

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

To place a small ad in this section .... Please call us on 090-6634633 or email

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie before 2.30pm on Tuesday We cannot guarantee publication after this time

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

VHI and Laya Covered

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST

COUNSELLING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY 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 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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Tel: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

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

Paul McStay

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

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

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie p

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

RSA Approved Driving Instructor

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!

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

Clinical Dental Technician

Unit 1, Ballypheason House, Athlone Road (off Goff St.) Roscommon town. TELEPHONE:

090 66 65917 087 228 8780

●

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

Phone John on

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

087 2860428

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

 FOR SALE: Round bales of hay and silage for sale. Can be delivered locally. Tel: 086 3776948  FOR SALE: Round bales of hay and silage €20. Lecarrow area. Tel: 086 1945562

FOR SALE  FOR SALE: Kitchen cabinet doors (Mahogany), (2) 18”x29” leaded glass, (2) 18”x28” and (2) 19”x28”. Contact PO Box No: 2083 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

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

● ●

Patrick Lynch

 FOR SALE: Round bales of hay for sale in Lecarrow area. Tel: 086 8870356

Tel. (094) 98 80281 Mob. (087) 2031909 Website: www.dockerydriving.ie

FENCING/GATES

NO FIX NO FEE

DENTAL

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

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY

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

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

Department of Health Approved Every Monday Tully’s Total Health Pharmacy Main Street, Castlerea

• Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

DC Computer Services

085 2514394

DRIVING LESSONS

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring

COMPUTERS

Phone:

087 2721193

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

●

087 6558597

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Classifieds GARDENING

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

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

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

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

PAINTER & DECORATOR

● Amatsu Therapy

● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

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

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

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

CONTACT KEVIN:

090 6630879 or Mobile

087 2835742

 TULLY GATES & RAILINGS: Highest quality wrought iron gates and railings. Also wooden gates. All budgets catered for. Made to spec, also selection in stock. Ring 086 0602173 for brochure.

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079 Professional Painter Available

www.aobtherapies.com Vouchers available on-line

Tried & Trusted since 1993 Quotation without obligation

HOLISTIC

• 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

LIFE COACH

Emer Watchorn Mindset Life Coach ● Life Coaching Reike ● Sound Healing Facebook: Emer Watchorn – Harmony Coaching Youtube: Emer Watchorn Coach

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

086 4679798

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

www.morrislohan.ie

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters 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

Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com 1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902

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

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

086 3482387

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

TURF & Tonne Bags also

PEAT BEDDING AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

086 2721812 (All areas)

Padraig Healy

GRINDS IN JUNIOR AND LEAVING CERTIFICATE BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTING

Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

Tutoring for college students in Business, Accountancy and Taxation.

Call car direct

(086) 2714879

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

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

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849

 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

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

086 2437376

TURF/FUEL/FIREWOOD

Banity Fuels

FREE DELIVERY

Delivering high quality solid fuel at very competitive prices throughout Roscommon, Longford and Leitrim

facebook.com/moleskinarch

REFLEXOLOGY

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

CABS

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

REFLEXOLOGY

TUITION

TOMMY GILLIGAN

083 8838022

●

Website: emerwatchorn.com North Galway

PLANNINGS

Phone JOHN

Can we help you? Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009

Phone: 087 7718842

GATES AND RAILINGS

Phone Alan on:

Tel: 087 2721757

www.parklawntreeservices.

ALL ABOUT THE GARDEN

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

FOR ALL YOUR INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

PAINTING & DECORATING

WILDFIRE OFFER Buy 5 bags of Wildfire and get 1 bag free.

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

TOM KILDUFF CABS Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670

0871477013 0872028971 banityfuels@gmail.com  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

VETERINARY

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Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

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KELLY’S EYE Taxi and Minibus hire.

PHONE:

087 2727888

Mon / Tues / Thurs 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. Wed / Fri 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Sat 10 am to 1:00 pm. To avoid delay please call for an appointment

Full in house diagnostics and Extensive range of top quality dog and cat food in stock AFTER HOURS

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Classifieds 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

OIL BOILER SERVICE

ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477  ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered - No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

LUKE COEN Plumbing + Maintenance • Bathroom planning and design to suit you • All aspects of plumbing and maintenance • Boiler Servicing • Heating Installation • Call for FREE QUOTATION or visit Luke Coen Plumbing + Maintenance on facebook

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

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Sean Hanley intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of completion of unauthorised farm entrance onto N60 and associated works at Lissagallan, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449

 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

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.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Mervyn Kirwin intends to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for erection of farm machinery/ agricultural store, on my land, associated site development works and services at Knockglass, Ballinameen, Co. Roscommon.

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815 WINDOW CLEANING  WINDOW CLEANING: Competitive rates. All areas covered. Also gutters/ fascias. Contact John: 087 2291931

Contact Luke on 087 1948286

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FAMILYNOTICES ....

PLANNINGS

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Cormac McDonnell to demolish an existing shed, construct an extension to an existing dwellinghouse, to construct a garage, a replacement waste water treatment system and associated siteworks at Cloonkeen, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Castle St, Roscommon. Ph- (087) 2222874 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Seamus and Vanessa Feeley are applying to Roscommon County Council for the following: (1) Planning permission to retain revised site layout with revised boundaries to that granted under PD/00/698 to include revised location of percolation area. (2) Planning permission to retain as constructed domestic garage that differs slightly to that granted under PD/00/698. (3) Full planning permission to construct side and rear extension, and to convert attic to bedroom accommodation with addition of dormer type window to rear along with alterations to front elevation including front porch and rooflight and all ancillary site development works at Cloonsellan, Ballymurray, 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 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.

Signed: James Lohan Consulting Engineer Ltd. 22 Castle View Terrace, Castle Street, Roscommon. M: 087 8228529 M: 087 9595520 T: 090 6627950 Email: jlohan@morrislohan.ie or aaron@morrislohan.ie www.morrislohan.ie - Architectural Design - 3D Modelling - New Build & Extensions -

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Daniel Bruce intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct 3 Bay loose livestock shed with lie back together with associated site works at Knock 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 and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Daniel Bruce.

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 am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Martin Egan to construct a dwellinghouse, garage, waste water treatment system and associated siteworks at Ballinderry, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon.

MURPHY Elizabeth and Thomas

In loving memory of

Feeragh, Ballymurray, Roscommon (29th Anniversary)

Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

CONLON Doreen

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Castle St, Roscommon. Ph- (087) 2222874 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Patrick Moran for retention planning permission to retain a partially built front boundary wall and piers and for full planning permission for a new additional entrance to an existing dwellinghouse at 3 Riverside Avenue, Cloonybeirne, Circular Road, Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Castle St, Roscommon. Ph- (087) 2222874 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, intend to apply for permission for alterations and additions to previously approved development, file Ref: PD/18/578, at Ardsallagh Beg, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. The alterations and additions include addition of an interview room, a child social work group room and additional office space at ground floor level, with additional ancillary areas and plant rooms. Signed: O’Neill | O’Malley Architects Ltd. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the planning authority at Roscommon County Council, The Courthouse, Roscommon. Opening hours Monday to Friday 9.30am – 4.00pm Offices closed for lunch between 1 p.m. and 2p.m. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a five week period beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

In loving memory of our mother Elizabeth, who died on the 17th December 1990 Also remembering at this time our father Thomas. Another Christmas, Another year, We turn around and you’re not here. How we miss you’re gentle smile, The love, the care, You gave to us, Our mother.

Sadly missed by your son and daughter-in-law, daughters and sons-inlaw, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Monday, 16th December at 9.30am

REILLY Paddy Aughmagree, Kilteevan (9th Anniversary)

We hold you close within our hearts, And there you 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.

Remembered with love and affection by her family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 21st December at 10am.

KELLY (Bernie) William Araghty, Athleague (3rd Anniversary) Who sadly passed away on 16th December 2016.

In loving memory of Paddy who died on 11th December 2010 Special memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year, Each of us in our own way, Have special thoughts of you today. Will those who think of him today A little prayer to Jesus say

Loved and remembered always by his wife Phil and family. Mass has been offered.

In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandad. May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, How much we love and miss you and wish that you were here.

Loved and missed by your family.

THANKSGIVINGS THANKSGIVING Publication promised for wonderful favours received with deep gratitude and appreciation to The Sacred Heart of Jesus, Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Martin, St. Anthony, Padre Pio, Fr. Rookey, St. Peregrine and all the Angels and Saints, sincere thanks. K.D. 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. Thanks to St. Martin, St. Anthony, Our Lady of Clonfert, St. Peter of Alacantra and the Sacred Heart for many favours received. M.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KIERNAN Sandra

BOYLE Evelyn (Nana)

SOMERS Mary (nee McGovern)

Ruane, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon

Enfield, Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 7th December 2015 R.I.P. (4th Anniversary)

(1st Anniversary) Who died on 28th December 2018

In loving memory of our darling daughter and sister Sandy, who died 12th December 2014 Take time to gaze at a sunset sky Where colours blaze to dazzle the eye. Take time to watch a moonlit sea And look in awe at a towering tree. Take time to look in the heart of a flower Adorned with diamonds from a gentle shower. Take time to view a mountain high With snowy peak ‘gainst bluest sky. Take time to listen to the song of birds A paean of joy without need of words. Take time to tell your closest friend Your love and loyalty will never end. Take time to stop and stand and stare At wonders round you everywhere. Take time to make time For all too soon there is no more time.

Forever in our hearts, Sandy. Mari and Shane xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Sandy, is it really five years? It might just as well be five days. The years flying by, but time standing still, Your place in my heart all these tears cannot fill.

Miss you Sandy. Love always Dad and Ber ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ You are near, even if I don’t see you You are with me, even if you are far away. You are in my heart, in my thoughts,

In my life always, Sandy. Karen, Mitch and girls ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Gone are the days we used to share But in our hearts you are always there.

Aunts, uncles, cousins and all her friends

Softly in the morning, You heard a gentle call, You took the hand God offered you, And quietly left us all. The day you left us Mother, Our hearts just broke in two. The smallest part is still with us The biggest part with you. Look around Your garden Lord, And when she turns and smiles Put Your arms around her And hold her for a while.

Sadly missed and loved always by her family. Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber on Friday, 20th December 2019 at 7pm.

MULLEN Larry

McTIERNAN Bernie

Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

Cooltigue, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon (11th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Kitty, who died on the 3rd December 2011. Also remembering her husband Jeremiah who died on 18th August 1989. You left us beautiful memories, Your love is still our guide And though we cannot see you You are always at our side.

Loved forever and missed everyday Marcella, Basil and Fiona. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Friday, 13th December at 7pm.

In loving memory of Bernie, who died on 16th December 2008 Rest in Peace.

Loved and sadly missed by his wife Maureen and family. Masses offered. Rest in Peace

REYNOLDS Joe Church View, Lanesboro. (1st Anniversary) Who died on 15th December 2018

Tonlagee, Roscommon 15th Anniversary 12th December 2018 R.I.P.

Sandy’s 5th Anniversary Mass will take place in The Sacred Heart Church, Kilglass on Friday, December 13th at 7pm.

JONES Kitty

The family would like to thank most sincerely all who attended the Removal and the Funeral Mass, travelled long distances, texted/telephoned, sent Mass Cards and messages of sympathy. To all who cared for Mary, the staff in St. Joseph’s Ward in the Sacred Heart Home and in her own home, thank you. Thank you to Fr. Ray Milton, Fr. Pat Hogan, Fr. George, Millar, Fr. Tim Lehane, Fr. Pat Beirne, Fr. Tom Kearney, Fr. Vincent Twomey, Fr. Peader Lavin and Fr. Sean Beirne for the beautiful Mass. Thank you to the choir for the lovely singing and music. To Smyth’s Funeral Directors for your professionalism, compassion and helpful way in which you carried out the Funeral arrangements, thank you. Thanks to those who prepared Mary’s final resting place Thanks to Murray’s Bar, Knockcroghery and Hannon’s Hotel. To the parishioners of St. Thomas the Apostle Church Quincy Florida, we express our gratitude As it is not possible to thank everyone individually, please accept our sincere thanks and appreciation. Mary’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 20th December at 7pm.

We are also remembering with great sadness Padraig, who died on 20th June 1984. Maureen Rushe who died on 16th May 2019 and John Joe Murray who died on 25th November 2019. May they Rest in Peace. Happy memories last forever Of times when we were all together Never more than a thought away Loved and missed every day.

By Kathleen and all the family. Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Four-Mile-House on Saturday, 14th December at 8.15pm.

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this you for this special favour. (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. Say for three days and promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. A.D.

Joe’s wife and family, his sister Breege would like to thank all those who attended his Removal and Funeral and to all those who sent Mass Cards and messages of sympathy. Thanks to Dr. Crosbie, the nurses and doctors of Mullingar Hospital, St. James’ Hospital and to the palliative care team who called to Joe. A special thanks to Aiden Tully, Funeral Directors for his professionalism and sensitivity, to Fr. Reilly and Fr. Dusmanta for celebrating the Funeral Mass, to Theresa Costello for her lovely singing which enhanced the ceremony. Thanks to those who prepared Joe’s final resting place. Thanks to the Abbey Hotel for a lovely meal. As it is not possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude. Mass will be offered for your intentions.

HARRINGTON Noel

MEE Bernadette

Ballygar, Co. Galway Who died on 2nd November 2019

Feevagh, Dysart and Hawthorn Drive, Co. Roscommon Who died on 11th December 2016

Bradley Patrick & Padraig

Your lives were those of kindly deeds. Of helping hands for others’ needs. Sincere and true in heart and mind Beautiful memories left behind.

Sadly missed by wife and mother Bridget and all the family. Anniversary Mass in St. Cecilias Church, Curraghroe on Sunday, 15th December at 10am.

KENNY Maureen Lisnaville, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Maureen who died on 9th December 2017

There were no words to tell you, What losing you has meant. But now, each day brings memories, Of happy years we spent. You’d want us all, to smile again. And that’s just, what we do. Everytime we reminisce, with loving thoughts of you.

Loved and sadly missed, Sandra, Maudie, Joe and Sean. Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Assumption, Fuerty on Sunday, 15th December at 11.30am.

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0(025,$/ &$5'6 ,QGLYLGXDOO\ 'HVLJQHG DQG 3ULQWHG Thank you to all who attended the Funeral of the late Noel Harrington, Ballygar in large crowds on both days. From Noel’s loving wife Anne, son Ruhiri and daughter Aine.

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

Loved and remembered by her family, friends and relations.

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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FAMILYNOTICES GILLOOLY Dan

McKEAGUE Pat

REYNOLDS Pat and Martha

KELLY Kenneth

Ballinaboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon Who died on the 24th of December, 2018

Creggs, Co. Galway (2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Pat who died on 14th December 2017 Aged 60 years May Pat’s gentle soul Rest in Peace.

Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon (12th and 10th Anniversaries) Whose anniversaries occur at this time

Lanesborough/Boston USA (4th Anniversary)

We, Teresa and family of the late Dan Gillooly of Ballinaboy, Kilteevan, who passed away on December 24th 2018 would sincerely like to thank all those who sympathised and supported us on our sad loss. We would like to thank all Dan’s good neighbours, friends and relatives who visited him at his home over the years and especially in the last few months of his illness. A very special thanks to all those who called to our home and provided so much food and refreshments. We would especially like to thank Dan’s fantastic carers who looked after Dan so well so that he could remain at home with us for so long. To all the staff at The Sacred Heart Home and Roscommon Hospital who cared so well for Dan in his final months and days, your kindness and care to Dan is very much appreciated. We would like to thank all those who attended the Removal and Funeral Mass, to all those who sent Mass Cards, Enrolments, Letters of Sympathy, and to all those who travelled long distances to be with us in our time of need. A special thanks to Fr. Sean Beirne, Fr. Praveen Dhason, Fr. John Cullen, and all the visiting priests who travelled to concelebrate Dan’s Funeral Mass. Sincere thanks also to Sacristan Maureen Kilmartin. We would like to thank Tommy and Pat of Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism, advice and sensitivity and to Regan’s Restaurant, for providing such lovely refreshments. Finally a special word of thanks to all the gravediggers for their good will, support and attention to detail while preparing Dan’s final resting place. Such loyalty, friendship, and commitment meant so much to us at the graveside. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. May God Have Mercy on Dan’s Soul. Dan’s Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 22nd December 2019 at 10am.

Pat’s beloved dog Crystal HIS JOURNEY’S JUST BEGUN Don’t think of him as gone away, his journey’s just begun. Life holds so many facets - this earth is only one. Just think of him as resting, from the sorrows and the tears. In a place of warmth and comfort, where there are no days and years. Think how he must be wishing, that we could know today. How nothing but our sadness can really pass away. And think of him as living, in the hearts of those he touched. For nothing loved is ever lost, and he was loved so much.

Sadly missed by his heartbroken wife Teresa, Pat’s beloved dog Crystal, brothers, Micheál, James, Gerard and his sister Maria. Nieces, nephews, aunt Eileen (U.S.A.), cousins, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, friends and neighbours. Pat’s Second Anniversary Mass takes place in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Saturday, 14th December at 7pm.

God bless you mother and father in your graves God keep you in His care, And may He listen to my heart And hear my fervent prayer. May you have peace and rest at last, From every care and woe; And may you sleep in comfort From the winds and rains and snow.

Sadly missed and always loved by your sons Joe, Martin and Declan, daughter Fiona, grandchildren and family. Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 12th December at 8am.

DOWD Thomas (Joseph)

HANNON Paddy

Corrspark, Glinsk, Ballymoe, Co. Galway (3rd Anniversary)

Boughill, Ballyforan (6th Anniversary) In loving memory of Paddy, who died on 23rd December 2013 R.I.P.

In memory of Thomas (Joseph) who passed away on 22nd December 2016. A smile for all, a heart of gold One of the best, this world could hold. Never selfish, always kind These are the memories left behind.

Loved, remembered and sadly missed by your loving wife Celia, son Tom, daughters Marian, Sandra and Martina, grandchildren and extended family. Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, 15th December at 10am. May he Rest in Peace.

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We can remember them That they have gone Or we can cherish their memory And let it live on

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by Adrian, Yvonne, Niall and families. Anniversary Mass on Friday 13th December at 7pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. May they Rest In Peace

Like falling leaves, the years slip by. But memories of you, will never die. A laugh, a smile, a joke or two. That’s the way we remember you. Your memory is now our keepsake. With which we will never part.

Always remembered by your wife Carmel, daughter Emer, sons Jonathan and Noel and Divilly and Kelly families. 6th Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Saturday, 14th December 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. M.G.M.

Whod died on the 23rd December 2015 Loved and remembered by family and friends, Lanesboro and Boston. Mass has been offered.

RAFTERY Pat Lanesboro Street, Roscommon (19th Anniversary) R.I.P.

REYNOLDS Pat and Martha Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon (12th and 10th Anniversaries) Beautiful memories, silently kept, Of ones that we loved and will never forget.

Sadly missed by all the Reynolds family.

MONTH’S MIND

KIERNAN Mona and Felix Jnr Who died 27th December 2008 and 4th June 2006 (11th and 13th Anniversaries)

Treasured memories of Pat and Martha, beloved parents and grandparents who died on 20th December 2007 and 2nd November 2009. RIP.

OWENS Tommy Ballybride, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

The family of the late Tommy Owens who passed away on the 16th November 2019 would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our wonderful relatives, neighbours, friends, colleagues and all who supported us and expressed their condolences to us on our great loss. We deeply appreciate the large numbers who attended Tommy’s Reposing at our home in Ballybride and Mass of the Resurrection in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. We would particularly like to thank all those who travelled long distances to be with us, sent Mass Cards, flowers and messages of sympathy. We are especially grateful to Fr. Pravin, Fr. Kevin Fallon, Fr. Michael Donnelly and Monsignor Charles Travers who celebrated Tommy’s memorable Mass. A special thanks to Fr. Michael Donnelly for his lovely Homily on the day. Thank you also to Carmel McLoughlin for her beautiful music on the day. Special thanks to Dr. John Keenan and Dr. Claire Quinn for their support during Tommy’s illness and the palliative care team and Daffodil nurses who took great care of him during his final days. A special word of thanks to the undertaker, Pat Smyth for his professionalism during the Funeral days, we are sincerely grateful. Please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Tommy’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 14th December at 7pm.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Who died 21st December 2000 No matter how life changes, No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you.

Lovingly remembered by your wife Betty, daughter Siobhán, son-in-law Eamon and granddaughter Leanne and grandson Darragh. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 19th December at 8am.

KILROY Tillie Cloonglasney, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Tillie, much loved mother and granny who passed away on 18th December 2017. R.I.P. If love alone could have saved you, you never would have died. In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still. In our hearts you hold a place no one else can ever fill.

Sadly missed and remembered by her loving family Mary, Patti, Mike, Joe, Claire, Conor, Barry and Chloe.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES DONLON Timothy (Timmie) St. John’s, Lecarrow Co. Roscommon Who died 14 December 2009 (10th Anniversary)

There is a love, a special love that is for you alone, there is a place, deep in my heart that only you can own. You are not just a memory or part of my past You are part of my life for as long as it shall last.

Lovingly remembered by Elizabeth. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ We’ll remember all you taught us, We’re heart-broken but won’t be sad Because you’ll send us down the answers And you’ll always be our Dad

Sadly missed by Regina and Martha.

QUIGLEY Eileen Creevy, Roscommon (20th Anniversary)

McDONNELL Seamus

MONTH’S MIND KELLY Kathleen Grange, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon Who died on 9th November 2019

We hold you close within our hearts, And there you shall remain, To walk with us, Throughout our lives, Until we meet again.

Loved and always remembered by your sons, daughters, sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon town on Friday, 27th December at 10am.

The family of the late Kathleen Kelly wish to acknowledge all who supported us through our sad loss. Thank you to our relatives who travelled from England to be with us. A special thanks to Kathleen’s wonderful neighbours and friends who have been a huge support and comfort to us and Kathleen during her illness and throughout the Funeral. Thank you for the Mass Cards and all who generously donated to Roscommon Palliative Care Services. We would like to thank Enda McHugh Undertaker for his help and kindnes at this time and also Hamrock’s Funeral Home, Brideswell. A very special thank you to Fr. Michael McManus who went above and beyond for us throughout Kathleen’s last days and her Funeral service. Also Deacon William Gacquin who assisted at the service and Aileen O’Connor for the beautiful music. We would like to thank HSE Home Support Service, Roscommon Palliative Care Team and the Daffodil Nurses for all their support and compassion. Thank you to the gravediggers who prepared Kathleen’s final resting place with such care. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accpt this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Kathleen’s Month’s Mind Mass will be held in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Saturday, 14th December at 10.30am.

BREHENY Patrick (Pat)

In loving memory of Patrick (Pat), who died on 15th December 2016 To us you were someone special, Someone set apart. Your memory will live forever, Engraved within our hearts.

Always remembered by your sisters Kathleen and May and extended family members. Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 15th December at 11.30am.

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Curnalee, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

KEPAK ATHLEAGUE Are now recruiting for an

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Glanduff, Kiltoom, Athlone. (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Eileen Quigley, Creevy, Roscommon, who died on 14th December 1999 R.I.P.

Appointments

Who died on 17th December 2016 Just a prayer from the family who loved you Just a memory fond and true. In our hearts you will live forever Because we thought the world of you.

Remembered always by his loving wife Rita and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Curraghboy Church on Sunday, 15th of December at 10am.

NAUGHTON Annie (31st Anniversary)

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.C. 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. Grateful thanks to St. Jude, St. Joseph and Our Lady. K.E.

Experience Requirements 5 years required experience. Understanding of maintenance management systems and process. Understanding of preventative and predictive maintenance. Understanding of manufacturing technologies. Understanding of standard software applications. Strong communication, math, organizational, and analytical skills are essential. To apply for the above position: Please send your CV to Claire Finneran, HR Manager, Kepak Athleague, Co. Roscommon or email claire.finneran@kepak.com Closing date for applications, Friday, 20th December 2019.

Farming Rathcroghan EIP is recruiting for a part-time

The successful candidate will • Assist the Maintenance Manager in the management of all maintenance activities for the factory. • Develop and deploy maintenance and planning improvement programs and projects that improve the plant and equipment performance. • Promote safety and demand it from the maintenance organisation. • Assist the Maintenance Manager with maintenance staffing to include hiring, training, and developing the staff to meet the needs of the department. • Ensure preventative and predictive maintenance is completed and records are maintained on all assets. • Act as the Maintenance Manager’s primary backup • Perform other tasks as assigned. Minimum Education Relevant Engineering Qualification or FETAC level 6 Mechanical / Electrical qualification essential.

Treasured memories of Annie Naughton late of 5 St. Theresa’s Tce Roscommon, who died on 15th December 1988 R.I.P. A silent thought, A quiet prayer, For someone special, in God’s care.

Always remembered by her loving family. Anniversary Mass for Maurice and Annie in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon town on Saturday, 14th December at 10am.

THANKSGIVINGS PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST Pray for 3 days. Publish on the 3rd day. See what will happen on the 4th day. Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception Aparecida! Oh! Saint Rita of Cassia and Saint Jude worker of miracles and helper of impossible causes pray for me. Saint Expedite, Saint of urgent causes. Saint Edwiges the Saint of the needy, you know how desperate I feel, please ask Jesus to help me. (Here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified for ever. Pray 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be... Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. L.M.

PROJECT ADMINISTRATOR Key responsibilities include: ● Preparing monthly and annual financial reports; ● Undertaking general office administrative duties; ● Liaising and communicating with stakeholders.

SITUATIONS VACANT  PART-TIME BAR PERSON: Required for bar in Roscommon town. Apply stating experience. Please send your CV and cover letter to PO Box No: 2082 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Excellent communication skills, IT skills and experience in similar role required. Contact Petra at:

farmingrathcroghan@gmail.com for more information and to apply. Application deadline 6th January 2020.

Apprentice Electrician (1st, 2nd or 3rd year) required in the Longford/Roscommon area for immediate start Please send CV’s to

BOX NO: 2080, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

SITUATIONS WANTED

Experienced Driver Available FOR VAN SALES/DELIVERIES All Options considered.

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Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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PLANNINGSEXTRA ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Jamie and Elaine Gaffey for planning permission for the demolition of existing out buildings for the construction of an extension to existing dwelling house, for the construction of a domestic garage/general purpose domestic store/fuel store together with all necessary ancillary siteworks at Tully and Tonvey, Ballydangan, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Dowd & Associates Ltd, Surveyors, Project Managers & Building Consultants. Phone: (090) 6623417 Mobile: 086 - 8546035 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its Public Opening Hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Breda Dunne, intend to apply for permission for the construction of a 30 sq.m single story extension to the side of my existing dwelling including all ancillary site works at Clooncraff, Townland, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Breda Dunne

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Seamus Brennan intend to apply for planning permission to Roscommon County Council for the following development: To construct a new 7 Bay Slatted Cattle Shed, to include underground Slurry Storage and Cubicle Lying area, together with all associated site works at Carrowkeel Td., Athleague, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee 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 condition, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: P Durkan & Associates Telephone: 071 - 9630037 Mobile: 086 1600385 Email: padraicdurkan@eircom.net

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

Seamus Duke ON SPORT Not much hope for ﬁxtures proposals! @SeamusDuke

There was a major splash of publicity last week at the release of the proposals of the GAA fixtures task force and while I’m sure that the people who worked on this report are genuine and well-meaning individuals, I cannot see the main ones coming to fruition. The one most likely to succeed is the suggestion that we could have four

Surely Shane is Sports Star of the Year? The RTÉ Sports Star of the Year programme is on at the weekend and despite the strong claims of many great sports people this year Shane Lowry has to be a shoe-in to win it. To win any golf tournament at elite level is so difficult but what he did in the wind and rain at Portrush will never be forgotten by those of us who saw it. Not alone was it a great win but it was such a popular win too for a guy who is so down to earth and such a likeable man. Katie Taylor has strong claims but I predict the man from Clara will be the winner.

‘Win a Home in London’ launched Club Rossie have to be congratulated on their latest initiative. The ‘Win a Home in London’ fundraiser is hugely ambitious but it will take a mountain of work to make it a success. On the plus side, the committee have the experience of running one of these fundraisers successfully and that will be invaluable. They certainly have the expertise. The bottom line, however, is that the success of the draw will depend on the support that it gets outside county Roscommon. It will have to be a national and international effort as it was for the last draw. On the other hand, the huge success of the ‘Win a House in Dublin’ initiative was partly down to the fact that there was a novelty factor about the draw at the time. Since then there have been scores of those types of draws around the country so the support base might well have dwindled. The spectre of ‘donor fatigue’ also has to come into play at some stage although the prize here is very attractive which might solve that problem. It is certainly a very exciting idea and for the sake of everyone in Roscommon GAA I hope it’s a success. It could solve all the financial worries of the County Board into the future and will ensure that the work on Dr. Hyde Park will be done and a Centre of Excellence will be provided too. I have no doubt that the committee will put in a huge effort, and no one foresaw what a success the last draw would be. I wish them the best of luck. It begs the question once again: what would Roscommon GAA do without Sean Mulryan? He has been an unbelievable support to the association in the county over the years and his backing is obvious once again. We are so lucky to have him.

groups of eight teams contest the provincial championships. It sounds sensible and very plausible until you start asking the likes of Longford and Clare to join Connacht or maybe Wexford and Carlow to join the Munster championship. If only one county who is asked to move objects then that whole idea becomes redundant.

Then there is the suggestion that the league be played during the summer months with the provincial championships moving to the spring. I wonder what the GAA public would make of going to a Connacht final in the middle of March? Quite apart from that, anyone who knows GAA politics will know the pow-

er that the provincial councils have and they would rule that idea out immediately, so it has no chance of succeeding. It is also prudent to note that this report and the proposals come without the support of the Club Players Association and whatever is agreed will not work if club players are against it. The notion that April would be set

Have United turned a corner? It was a very interesting weekend in the Premier League. Liverpool continue to stride towards their first league title in 30 years while those below them (with the notable exception of Leicester City) are struggling badly. Brendan Rodgers has done a great job at Leicester and he signed a five-and-a-half year deal last week which is great news for them. Jamie Vardy has got a new lease of life since Rodgers came and they look a really good side. After a number of years of criticising Manchester United I have to say that they were excellent against Manchester City on Saturday evening. In fact, they could easily have been 4-0 up at half-time. Their counter-attacking play was outstanding, however winning last Saturday will be useless if they do not back it up over the coming weeks! A word too about Son, the Korean playing for Spurs, who is now one of the best players in the Premier League. His goal on Saturday against Burnley was one of the best seen in the league in many years and is a certain contender for ‘Goal of the Season’.

Manchester is red but is the Premier League? Marcus Rashford celebrates scoring in United’s derby win over City last Saturday.

aside for club activity only has simply not worked as county teams are training away on the quiet as there are many major championship games in early May. I know that many people in the association are making genuine attempts to sort out the mess that is fixtures but I simply cannot see any of these major proposals being agreed.

Genuine soccer people the real victims I feel really sorry for genuine soccer people in this country who are down at grassroots level doing their best as volunteers and coaches. They are watching as their sport at the top level is being dragged through the mud with every day that passes. The greed and downright incompetence that we have witnessed is breathtaking and hopefully the game can recover from the current situation. It’s sport at the end of the day and anything that promotes sport and participation has to be a good thing.

Connacht face uphill battle in Europe Connacht will now have an uphill struggle to qualify for the play-off stages in the Champions Cup after last weekend’s defeat by Gloucester. It was a hardfought game all through but a couple of mistakes cost Connacht dearly including that intercept-try just after half-time. Andy Friend’s side must now get five points from their return game against the same opposition on Saturday at the Sportsground and hope that other results go their way. With tough games against Montpellier away and Toulouse at home to come, it will be tough to make the top two in the group now.

Leinster were excellent against Northampton and look the team to beat in the entire competition. Jordan Larmour was superb and is improving all the time. Elsewhere, Munster were comfortable winners against Saracens on a foul night in Limerick but they will have to face a full Saracens side this coming weekend which will be a very tough prospect. John Cooney was once again the saviour for Ulster against Harlequins and now, with three wins out of three, they are in a great position in their pool. Cooney simply has to get a chance with Ireland now as the Six Nations approaches.

The San Francisco 49ers are back in business and heading for the play-offs.

49ers back in business in the NFL!

Ulster’s John Cooney has been in impressive form for the province this season.

It had been a while since I watched American Football on the TV but I see that over the past few weeks my old team, the San Fransisco 49ers, are back in business and set for the play-offs. Their game against the New Orleans Saints at the weekend was one of the best seen in the league in many years (San Fransisco won by 48 to 46). It was gripping

right to the winning kick in the final seconds. I know that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea but the match highlights are well worth watching. I also see that Tom Brady is still the number one quarterback for the New England Patriots. He is now 42-years-old and generally regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

SportPeople Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs stay in touch with win over Buccs Connacht Junior 1A League: Buccaneers 0 Creggs 21. It was a dreadful night for rugby but Creggs took the spoils at Dubarry Park in a contest that was closer than the scoreline suggests. Creggs defended brilliantly to keep the home side scoreless, particularly for a twenty-minute period in the second half and also added eight points after half-time when playing against the raging elements. Despite playing into the wind, Buccaneers had the better of the opening exchanges before Shane Purcell landed a penalty goal for the visitors on thirteen minutes. The resulting low flying kick-off saw two players leave the field, Creggs’ Alan Brandon and his opposite number Tom Gilheany, following a nasty ground level knee to knee collision. The conditions made running rugby almost impossible and the frustration grew among the Creggs backs who struggled to find a breakthrough. Purcell increased the Creggs lead with a penalty goal in the 26th minute. Better was to come just before halftime, when the fly-half spurned another shot at goal in favour of a kick to the corner which ultimately yielded a try between the posts for Aidan Leech, which Purcell converted to leave Creggs deservingly 13-0 ahead at the interval. Now facing into the driving wind and rain Creggs were afforded another penalty chance five minutes into the second half which Purcell duly slotted. Buccaneers had plenty of time to claw back the deficit and set about doing so with a sustained series of attacks inside the Creggs 22” for close to twenty minutes. Creggs managed to repel the hosts with strong a series of strong tackles and a number of re-

lieving clearances from scrum-half Eoghan Coyle. Coyle was even unfortunate that the referee failed to play advantage as he gathered a spilled ball in the tackle and looked set for a potential breakaway try. Creggs showed tremendous discipline as they ran down the clock. The visitors even had the upper hand in a series of punishing scrums and eventually lifted the siege with a breakout by replacement Danny Arnold which was carried on by Tom Fleming. The latter, who along with Leech and others had been a powerhouse throughout, surged through the middle of the park and this set the platform for a series of drives from Maurice Buckley, Elliot Jennings, Eoghan Farrell and Fleming again into the home side’s five-metre line. Quick recycled ball from Coyle ended with full-back Shane Dowd crossing in the corner to deny Buccaneers a losing bonus point. This Sunday, Creggs travel to Clifden for a top of the table clash with the Connemara All Blacks, who on Sunday notched up another bonus point win away to Sligo. This leaves the Blacks six points ahead of Creggs so anything other than a Creggs win will leave Connemara very much in the driving seat as they bid to retain their league title. Meanwhile, with three wins from three in their last Connacht J1C League games, the Creggs Development team travels to Galway to play OLBC at the Sportsground on Saturday evening at 7.30 pm. This is the final Connacht League match for the Development team before the Christmas break. Formally Creggs’ Seconds, the new Development squad structure

A representative from Connaught Rugby speaks with young Creggs players in Claremorris. The ‘Silent Sidelines’ initiative by Connacht Rugby meant that coaches and parents weren’t allowed to speak to players during games. Instructions can only be given to players before games and again at half-time.

has been transformed this season. In addition to a core squad, it also gives the younger U-20 players plus a strong mix of returning players, others new to rugby, and first team players returning from injury and regaining fitness and form the opportunities to impress. The first team has seen the benefits of this stronger development squad and the good work being done by the coaches. The management team continues to welcome new and returning players to come along and train with the squad. Contact: Kevin O’Rourke, Mattie Corcoran, Paul Turley, Sean Brandon, or Vincent Collins.

Youth Rugby Connacht U-16 Connacht League: Creggs 25 Sligo 5. Creggs U-16 Girls secured their place in the Connacht U-16 Division One League Semi-Fi-

nals with a 25-5 victory over Sligo last Saturday in Creggs. The home team scored five tries on the day through Roisin Maher, Sarah Purcell, Eadaoin Walsh, Siofra Hession and Rachel McDonald. Up front, Creggs were excellent with some excellent carries from Jemima Adams Verling, Roisin O’Brien, Gabrielle Kilcommons, and Jean O’Boyle. Nadine Fitzmaurice created fast ball for Aoibhinn Murray and Eabha Dowd to move the ball wide where Emma Mannion, Megan Donoghue and Jennifer Morris were causing the Sligo defence constant problems. The league semi-final will take place on the weekend of January 5th and Creggs’ opponents will be known when the other teams finish their remaining games. Elsewhere, congratulations to the Roscommon CBS Junior team who made it through to the Connacht Junior

‘A’ Schools League Final last week in Creggs. Played in awful weather conditions on the 4G pitch, the game against Summerhill had to be decided by a first try scored rule which put CBS through. Good Luck to the Creggs U-16 Boys involved with CBS Roscommon this Thursday in the Connacht Schools Junior ‘A’ League Final against Garbally College in Tuam at 12 pm. Best wishes also to St. Mary’s, Ballygar who take on Gort Community School on Thursday at 11.30 am in the Connacht Schools Junior ‘C’ League Final. That match will be played in Creggs. Fixtures this week: Ballinasloe v Creggs U-18.5s on Sunday at 12 pm; Buccaneers v Creggs U-15s on Sunday at 12 pm.

Mini Rugby This coming Saturday, all Creggs Mini Rugby teams (U-7s to U-12s) will take part in a Blitz hosted by Ballinasloe RFC. Players are requested to be in Ballinasloe and ready for 10.30 am kickoffs. New Mini Rugby players are always welcome. Creggs will have boys and girls teams from U-7 (six-year-olds) through each year up to U-12s. Players welcome to try it out on Saturday mornings when there isn’t a Blitz on. Registration is available online and the new season that will run through to April 2020. Parents are also very welcome to help with coaching (full training provided) or to help support the great efforts at Creggs Mini Rugby coaching team.

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

Dooner’s weekend predictions A decision on a possible four-point deduction for champions and current Premier Division league leaders St. Peter’s FC is expected before Christmas. St. Peter’s are alleged to have fielded an ineligible player in games against St. John’s Athletic and Castlerea Celtic earlier in the season and a recent hearing of the Roscommon & District Football League disciplinary committee proposed the four-point deduction. However, the club has denied any intentional wrong-doing and appealed the decision to the Connacht FA. The branch is expected to meet next Tuesday and when contacted, the Roscommon & District Football League said it wasn’t currently in a position to comment. If St. Peter’s are unsuccessful in their appeal, Castlerea Celtic will close the gap significantly at the top of the Premier Division while St. John’s Athletic will be awarded the three points from the game they lost 9-1 last month. Meanwhile, Castlerea Celtic were in action

in the fifth round of the FAI Junior Cup last weekend, but bowed out following a 5-1 defeat to Oliver Bond Celtic on the AstroTurf in Grangegorman. Friday, December 13th RDFL Premier Division Boyle Celtic v St. John’s Athletic. 8.15 pm This will be a hard-fought game but I’m leaning slightly towards the hosts. Prediction: Boyle Celtic Saturday, December 14th RDFL Premier Division Ballinasloe Town v Castlerea Celtic. 8 pm As if this fixture needed another sub-plot, but should Castlerea win and St. Peter’s’ points deduction appeal prove unsuccessful, the Premier Division will look very different come 2020. Prediction: Draw RDFL Division Two

Ballymoe FC B v St. John’s Athletic B. 8.15 pm The visitors have confused the ‘experts’ this season but I expect them to follow up recent performances with a win here. Prediction: St. John’s Athletic B Sunday, December 15th RDFL Division One Rahara Rovers v Ballaghaderreen FC. 2 pm Away win for my favourites for the Division One title. Prediction: Ballaghaderreen FC Dunmore Town v Castlerea Celtic B. 2 pm Away win. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic B RDFL Division Two At Ballinagare: Manor United v Skyvalley Rovers B. 2 pm This is an interesting tie. Both sides have been impressive at times this season and there should be little to separate them. Prediction: Manor United

Soccer results New Balance FAI Junior Cup (Round 5) Oliver Bond Celtic 5 Castlerea Celtic 1 RDFL Premier Division Moore United 0 St. Peter’s FC 4 Shiven Rovers 2 Kilkerrin United 2 RDFL Division One Cloonfad United W/O Roscommon United Castlerea Celtic B 2 Rahara Rovers 0 Dunmore Town 0 Cam Celtic 5 RDFL Division Two Roscommon United B 1 Manor United 3 Moore United B 5 St. Cuan’s United 1

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

SPORTING WORLD

@dan_dooner

WITH DAN DOONER

Grassroots soccer scorched by FAI controversy

The Castlerea Community School Senior and Cadet Boys basketball teams defeated Presentation Athenry in the Regional Shield Final on Thursday last at The Hub, Castlerea in what were two very close-fought games

Former FAI CEO John Delaney has visited the county at least twice since 2016. His first visit brought him to Ballymoe FC for the official opening of a new pitch and his second was for the turning of the sod of the John Sherlock Stand in 2018. Delaney always prided himself on his support of the grassroots and on both occasions it was announced that the FAI would chip in with €10,000 for the respective projects. Storm clouds were brewing even as far back as 2016, however. His visit to Ballymoe Football Club was scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 27th but acoording to Mr. Delaney, he was held up at a similar event and had to postpone until the following day. At the time, not only was Mr. Delaney the CEO of the FAI, he also sat on the Olympic Council

THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner of Ireland (OCI) executive which had just been rocked by the Rio Olympics ticketing scandal. There was a feeling at the time that the official opening of a local soccer pitch would attract more media attention than normal, therefore, to put it in soccer parlance, Delaney expertly delayed his run. The CEO was a real people person by all accounts and evidence of this could be found in tales from travelling Irish fans as well as recent support for him from some grassroots clubs and leagues. His next visit to Roscommon was to turn the sod on the John Sherlock Stand in Lecarrow.

The stand is a fitting tribute to a man, who prior to his passing had served the Roscommon and District Football League with distinction. Across Ireland there are volunteers and local people just like the late John Sherlock, who give up their time so that players of all ages can take part in the world’s most popular sport. It’s those people, involved at the very grassroots of the game, who will suffer following Delaney’s controversial reign. The die-hard soccer men and women of this country had enough to contend with prior to these revelations in terms of competition from other sports and lack of meaningful funding. There is a real fear now that both the national football association and the game itself has been tarnished for an entire generation.

RIGHT: Happier times: FAI CEO John Delaney pictured officially opening the new all-weather pitch at Ballymoe FC in 2016. Also in picture are Michael Fitzmaurice TD; Ballymoe FC chairman, Padraic Grogan; secretary Kathleen Hegarty and Gerry Tully, RDFL secretary.

The sporting brief Darts Flanagan’s extend lead Flanagan’s moved to 37 points and extended their lead at top of the Hannon’s Hotel Roscommon Darts League following the seventh round of fixtures which were played last weekend. The league leaders had a narrow 5-4 win over Cosy Bar while The Holly Tree beat bottom side Dalton’s 6-3. The games between McDermott’s and The Hollywood Bar and An Bóthar Rua and Molly’s were cancelled and will be played before Christmas.

The final round of fixtures prior to the Christmas Break, which will be played this coming Friday are as follows: Dalton’s v Flanagan’s; The Hollywood v The Holly Tree; Molly’s v McDermott’s; Sideline Bar v An Bóthar Rua. Cosy Bar have a bye. The Christmas Singles will take place in Hannon’s Hotel this Sunday (15th). Names are to be in by 3.15 pm sharp, with the draw at 3.30 pm and games to begin at 4 pm. Prize money will be Money In/Money Out plus €200. Meanwhile, the John Kearney Memorial tournament took place last Sunday in Flanagan’s of Castleplunkett with a Sean Fleming

and Thomas Concannon emerging from a field of 39 players to contest a thrilling final. Sean had to overcome Ciaran Hickey, James Sharkey, David Concannon and Gary Concannon to reach the final, while Thomas Concannon beat Mikey O’Grady, Wayne Harries, Paul Carton and Francis Hussey. Thomas refused to throw in the towel in the final, fighting back from 4-2 down to send it to a deciding leg. However, Sean threw great darts in that final leg to take a 5-4 win and the John Kearney Memorial title.

Golf Christmas tees

Phil McWeeney, on behalf of Drumsna Garden Centre, presents prizes to the winning team of the Drumsna Garden Centre Scramble, Dolores Mulvey and Patricia O’Hara. Runners-up were Mary O’Rourke and Eta King.

The golf season is winding down across the county ahead of the Christmas break, and the final DiVino’s Nine and Dine took place in Carrick last Saturday afternoon. The Carrick Christmas Party, meanwhile, is set for this Saturday night and we are sure that both members and guests will enjoy an experience that is above par. Elsewhere, the men’s and ladies’ AGMs took place in Athlone recently and Ray Fagan has been elected as the men’s captain while Assumpta Galvin is the new ladies’ captain. Other appointments – Men’s committee: Eamon Kenny (vicecaptain), Sean Cleary (honorary secretary), Frankie Donnelly (competitions secretary), Adrian Hurley (honorary treasurer), Tony Reape

(handicap secretary), Michael McBrearty (junior convenor), Tom O’Reilly (committee). Ladies’ committee: Pat McTiernan (vicecaptain), Marion Hendrick (honorary secretary), Cepta McLoughlin (honorary treasurer), Catherine Fitzgerald (handicap secretary), Imelda Sheerin, Brid Kenny and Yvonne Walsh (committee). Back to the course and the next outing of the Midland Intermediate Alliance (bumper Christmas Outing) will be held in Moate this Sunday (15th). The recent results from the ladies’ Autumn Running saw Frances McGettigan in first place on 46 points with Ann Egan Farrell on 44 in second and Carol McGetrick in third on 38.

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People’s champion of the week

Gymnastics 30th celebrations! Athlone Gymnastics Club celebrated its 30th anniversary last weekend. Many of the club’s gymnasts gave an amazing display last Saturday afternoon followed by a movie night for young members while older members enjoyed a sleepover at the club. Thanks to director of gymnastics, Elisha, manager Imelda and all coaches and committee members for a fantastic weekend of celebration. Tickets for Athlone Gymnastics Club’s New Year Draw can be purchased through committee members and the club’s website and Facebook page. There are fantastic prizes on offer!

John Kearney Memorial Cup winner Sean Fleming is presented with the trophy by tournament organiser Padraig Kearney in Flanagan’s last Sunday.

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

SportsPeople This weekend’s action

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

There is no racing today and tomorrow evening racing is under lights is on the all-weather in Dundalk, first race off at 5.45 pm. Racing on Saturday is at Fairyhouse at 11.55 pm. There is Sunday racing at Proudstown Park outside Navan, first away at 12 pm. Naas hosts a meeting at 12.20 pm on Monday. Cross channel, Cheltenham hosts it’s November meeting featuring the Grade 3 BetVictor Handicap Chase and the Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase, with ten Irish trained entries. On Saturday the feature is the Grade 3 Caspian Caviar Gold Cup Handicap Chase. Enda Bolger has Josies Orders, a fourtime cross country winner at Cheltenham, Blue Templar and Yanworth, Peter Maher trains Ballyboker Bridge and Hurricane Darwin, Jessica Harrington Neverushacon, David Broad King’s Song, Richard O’Keeffe Vital Island, Oliver McKiernan Ard Na Carraig and Gordon Elliott Out Sam. The five from France are David Cottin’s Easysland and Amazing Comedy, Patrice Quinton is doubly represented by D’Jango and Decret, and Augustin de Boisbrunet’s Azrou D’Ex completes the French entry. Patrice Quinton leads the trainer’s table from David Cottin. On Saturday, last season’s Grand National fourth place showed Walk In The Mill he runs his best races at Aintree over its spruce National fences including Becher’s Brook, the Chair etc. The Robert Walford-trained chaser repeated his win of last year’s Becher Chase with the 9-Y-O becoming the first back-to-back winner of the £150,000 race beating Kimberlite Candy and Gordon Elliott’s Alpha Des Obeaux 2½l and 8l. At Sandown JP McManus’s Defi Du Seuil under Barry Geraghty repelled the renewed

BREAKING BALL GAA Results Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 FC Division One Final St. Brigid’s 3-17 Oran 0-10 Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 FC Division Two SemiFinals Roscommon Gaels 0-9 Pádraig Pearses 1-4 Éire Óg/Michael Glavey’s 2-14 St. Dominic’s 0-8 Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 FC Division Three Final St. Ciaran’s 4-12 Kilbride 1-9

GAA Fixtures Saturday, December 14th DG Oil U-18 Hurling League At Athleague: Tooreen v Four Roads. 12 pm Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 FC Division Two Final At Kilbride: Roscommon Gaels v Éire Og-Michael Glavey’s. 7 pm

The Roscommon U-16 camogie team which won the All-Ireland ‘B’ title this year pictured at a recent awards night at the Hodson Bay Hotel. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Defi Du Seuil gets the better of Un De Sceaux to win the Tingle Creek.

effort of Paul Townend on the Willie Mullins trained Un De Sceaux by a neck with Waiting Patiently ¾l away in third in the Tingle Creek Chase. Despite being threatened by the high winds of last weekend’s storm Aityah Punchestown and Cork went ahead on Sunday. At Punchestown Willie Mullins’ Min recorded his second win in the Grade 1 John Durkan Chase beating Hardline and Presenting Percy by 2¼l and 1l. Mullins completed an across the boards treble winning the Grade 2 Hilly Way Chase with Cilaos Emery and the Grade 3 Irish EBF Novice Chase with Elimay.

Racing News At the Horse Racing Ireland Awards held in Dublin on Tuesday evening Tiger Roll was named Horse of the Year.

Jockey Rachel Blackmore picked up the National Hunt Award and trainer Jessica Harrington picked up the Flat Award. The Point-to-Point Award went to leading handler from Wexford Colin Bowe. Sean Mulryan’s Cheltenham hero City Island could make his debut over fences in a beginner’s chase at Leopardstown over the Christmas. The testing conditions have delayed the Martin Brassil trained 6-Y-O’s step up to fences. Brassil and Mulryan look to have found another nice horse in Longhouse Poet, winner of the maiden hurdle at Navan, on whom Derek O’Connor was recording his third victory having won a point to point and bumper on him previously. The argument that Irish racing suffered when coverage transferred to RacingTV received a boost on Sunday

when the Peterborough Chase took preference over Punchestown’s Grade 1 John Durkan Chase. The Grade 2 £65,000 Peterborough Chase had to share the screen with the €85,000 Punchestown with commentary audible for the Irish race for the final 40 seconds. This is just not good enough RacingTV.

Point to Point Corner At the break Barry O’Neill, on 16 wins, leads the rider’s championship by three from Jamie Codd. In the Ladies Championship Maxine O’Sullivan, on three, leads Aine O’Connor, Liz Lalor and Moira McGelligott by one. In the handlers table Colin Bowe on 13 heads Denis Paul Murphy by four. The next meeting is at Dromahane outside Mallow in Co. Cork on December 30th.

Ciaran’s sharp shooters down Kilbride Dermot Hughes Cars Roscommon U-20 FC Division Three Final St. Ciaran’s 4-14 Kilbride 1-11 St. Ciaran’s braved the horrendous weather to deliver a brilliant performance in this Division Three decider played at Lisnamult last Saturday night. It was only late in the game when Kilbride made a surge but by that time the title was already in the bag. Goals from Cathal Crehan, Cian Murray and

a Ben McGahon from a placed ball which deceived the Kilbride defence, helped the winners into a commanding 3-10 to 0-2 half-time lead. Then, when Padraig Gaffey scored a fourth goal at the end of the third quarter it was all over as a contest. Ryan Merriman did get a late consolation goal for Kilbride but it was a comprehensive win for an impressive St. Ciaran’s outfit, who posted a very impressive total on a night of strong winds and torrential rain. St. Ciaran’s: J Naughton; A Lyons, E Browne; T Crean (0-1), B McGahon (1-0), J Crehan; C

Lavin, R Dowd (0-4); Cormac Lavin, C Murray (1-1); P Gaffey (1-0); C Crehan (1-3), J McGahon (0-5). Subs: N Coyle for Crehan,T KeeganGrant for Crean, S Lynch for Cor Lavin, J Hanley for Browne, K Connolly for J McGahon, E Dowd for R Dowd. Kilbride: C Feeley; D Carroll, W Tully; A Shanagher (0-2), S McLoughlin, R Cunningham; A Merriman (1-2), A Looby (0-1); S Hanly (0-1), S Tully (0-1) R Beisty (0-1); D O’Neill (0-3), D O’Connor. Subs: D Brennan for O’Connor, R O’Connor for W Tully. Referee: Vivian Hardiman

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

SportsPeople

The St. Brigid’s team and management celebrate their U-20 Football Championship win in Athleague last Saturday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Brigid’s’ storm blows Oran away! Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 Football Championship Division One Final ST. BRIGID’S

3-17

ORAN

0-10

 SEAMUS DUKE

On a foul night in Athleague, Oran’s dreams of winning a major Division One football title were shattered in no uncertain terms by a rampant St. Brigid’s side who tore them to shreds in the opening half of this very one-sided final last Saturday night. Oran had to face two storms in this first half of this very disappointing decider. Atiyah brought driving rain and strong winds to contend with, but that was mild in comparison to the storm which this multi-talented Kiltoom side unleashed in that opening period. The Oran lads seemed to be stuck to the ground as Brigid’s attacked with ruthless precision and scored almost at will. When the teams went in for the break there was an incredible 21 points between them and the game was over as a contest by the end of the first quarter. But credit is due to Oran, they never gave up despite the impossible odds, but it will be scant consolation to them that they won the second half 0-9 0-4. Brigid’s had the aid of the elements in the opening half and in fact it was Oran who scored first in the fourth minute when James Fitzpatrick squeezed over a fine point from a difficult angle. But that was it as far as Oran were concerned in that opening half as Brigid’s ran riot after that. With Ben O’Carroll leading the charge, they were merciless as they drove forward relentlessly and some of their attacking play was a joy to watch.

They scooted into a 0-3 to 0-1 lead after seven minutes before Ben O’Carroll weaved his way through the Oran defence for a brilliant solo goal in the 9th minute. Brigid’s were in no mood to ease up on the accelerator, and goal number two came in the 15th minute after a great run from Ciaran Sugrue and O’Carroll once again supplied a deadly finish. It was now 2-6 to 0-1. Brigid’s were determined to finish the game before half-time and they did that in scintillating fashion. Sugrue, the two O’Carrolls, Brian Derwin and Donnacha Gately all got in on the act as the scores piled up. In the 23rd minute Tom O’Carroll set up Ciaran Sugrue to fist home their third goal and by half-time it was 3-13 to 0-1. Oran did their best to put some respectability on the scoreline in the second half and Colin Walsh, Ciaran Lawless, Evan Keane and Charlie Carthy made some headway, but it was a lost cause. I was one of those who was expecting a really competitive and hard-fought final between these two very talented teams and while Oran just did not turn up on the night, I was so impressed with St. Brigid’s. Make no mistake, the Kiltoom production line is ticking over very nicely and we will see a lot of these players many times again over the years. For Oran, it’s a night that they will want to forget in a hurry. St. Brigid’s: Evan Gallagher; Sean Trundle, Pearse Frost, Ciaran Quinn; Ruari Smith, Paul McGrath, Robbie Dolan; Billy McDonnell, Ruaidhri Fallon (0-1); Ian O’Rourke, Ben O’Carroll (24), Donnacha Gately (0-2); Tom O’Carroll (0-2), Brian Derwin (0-4, 2 frees), Ciaran Sugrue (1-4). Subs: Keelan Connor for Quinn (42), Oisin O’Reilly for T O’Carroll (48), John Leonard for Gately (55), Eoin Minagh for Smith (57), Tommy Glynn for O’Rourke (59), Oran: Darragh O’Sullivan; John Martin, Colin Walsh, Michael

Staunton; Cormac Regan, Eoghan Grady (0-1, ’45), Ryan Cox; Colm Earley, Ciaran Lawless; Liam Earley, Darragh Walsh (0-4 frees), Oisin Keenan; Charlie Carthy (0-3, 1 free), James Fitzpatrick (0-1), Aaron Casey. Subs: Evan Keane (01) for Keenan (h/t), Robbie Kenny for Casey (h/t), Conor Earley for L Earley (42), Anthony Farrell for Cox (55), Fergus Earley for Carthy (58), Referee: Gerry Carmody Man of the Match: Ben O’Carroll (St. Brigid’s)

TOP: Robbie Dolan tries to get past Colin Walsh during the Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 FC Division One Final at Athleague on Saturday. LEFT: Captains Seamus Smith and Brian Derwin pictured following St. Brigid’s’ U-20 Football Championship win over Oran in Athleague last Saturday night. Photographs: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 13 December 2019

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