02 February 2024 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

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02 February 2024

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Under that plan, the landmark Roscommon Post Office building at The Square in Roscommon will close in the coming months, with the iconic building being put up for sale. An Post will continue to provide its services under a new postmaster in a new location. It is understood that existing staff will be given the option of applying for employment with the new postmaster, or being deployed elsewhere in the post office network. Oireachtas members and local councillors met in Gleeson’s, Roscommon on Monday evening in a united show of opposition to the An Post proposals. See more on pages 20-21.

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Local politicians hope to persuade management of An Post to abandon their controversial plans for Roscommon Post Office during a special meeting in the Council HQ this evening (Thursday). A representative of An Post senior management has been invited to the meeting, which will be attended by Roscommon-Galway Oireachtas members and councillors. The meeting, convened by Cllr Anthony Waldron (Chairperson of Roscommon Municipal District) will be held in the Council Chamber on Thursday evening (6.30 pm). Members of the public are welcome to attend in the gallery. Local politicians are also seeking an urgent meeting with Jack Chambers, Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications (through Senator Eugene Murphy). A petition is also being sent to Minister Eamon Ryan. There has been a public outcry since An Post confirmed it plans to switch its existing service in the county town to a ‘contractor-run post office’ model.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

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Getting lost on the way to Omagh… and planning a trip to Malmo! What a nightmare! Huh? That journey to Omagh! You still on about that? YES! Well, I’m sorry, but I’m no expert with a sat nav! No expert? You’re a complete novice! CYCLING First off, ACCIDENT it took you ten minutes – ten very stubborn minutes – to even get ‘Healy Park’ keyed in! If you were involved in a cycling Well, I wascontact nervous about typing in accident ‘Healy’… I tried to explain that to you! Byrne Carolan WHAT? I wasn’t listening! Cunningham Solicitors I don’t trust technology! I thought if I typed in ‘Healy’ it might link us up to the Editor’s phone, and he’d hear our entire conversation… all the way to Tyrone! That makes no sense! Not true! Even I know that if you just utter a word now, details to do with it will immediately pop up on your nearest device! Oh dear! (They pause to check if Cillian Murphy has been nominated for any more awards in the past 24 hours) Anyways, you should have just let me get the directions off my phone, but you were too stubborn! Relax! These GAA away days, they’re meant to be enjoyed! Not with you taking us all around the country… in the wrong direction! At this rate, I can’t travel to any more Roscom-

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

mon matches with you! I’ll get us to the Hyde without any hassle! After you finally put ‘Omagh’ in, you started fiddling with the radio, next thing the sat nav lady stopped talking to us! It’s not the first time a lady stopped talking to you! Anyways, I wanted to hear Des Cahill… Well I suppose we finally got there, after the lady told you to recalculate a few times!

(They pause to double-check their lotto numbers, after hearing a €14m jackpot has been won) Anyways… any news? There’s always news! Jurgen Klopp is stepping out, Donald Trump is trying to step back in, and the whole country is watching Dermot Bannon! And what do you think of Doomsday… I won’t hear it! We can beat Galway! I have faith! Huh? You’re calling next Sunday Doomsday… No! What do you think of Doomsday Blue… Wha’? Ireland’s Eurovision entry! As sung by Bambie Thug! It’s our big Eurovision hope! What do you think? I haven’t heard it yet! Problem is, I don’t think we’ll ever win the Eurovision again! Oh think positive! Actually, we should go! Huh? I’ve always wanted to go to Malmo, let’s look into it! Really? Yeah, we could hire a car... Great idea! I’ve friends in Norway, we could visit them! I suppose we’d, er, need a good sat na… I’ll DRIVE!

PIC OF THE WEEK: Taking off! A fleet-footed Dan Kelly in action for Creggs in the U-16s boys final against Buccaneers last Saturday. Pic: Steve Fahey

It’s been a GOOD week for…

☺

Cork native Bambie Thug, who has been chosen to represent Ireland in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest (which will be held in Sweden in May)

A cool and relatively composed Harry Clark, who won the popular BBC One TV reality show ‘Traitors’ on Friday night (picking up £95,150, and the profile boost!) Maidstone United, with the non-league (sixth tier) club causing a massive shock in the FA Cup, defeating Championship side Ipswich Town (2-1, away), a giant-killing display that can compare with any in the competition’s history

It’s been a BAD week for…

☹

Roscommon Post Office and its customers, with the shock announcement by An Post that it intends to implement changes to its service which will have the effect of leading to the closure

of the county town’s landmark post office building Liverpool FC supporters, stung by the shock news that their manager, Jurgen Klopp, has decided to leave the club at the end of the current season

Jurgen Klopp

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

ETL Roscommon

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Roscommon business to close after 40 years trading as owners retire In a Facebook post on Thursday 25th April 2024, ETL said: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we announce our plans to close ETL (formerly Eight ‘til Late) on Saturday, 2nd March 2024 after 40 years in business. We opened our doors to trade in Roscommon on 29 February 1984. ‘It has been a difficult decision to call time on what has been a very long and happy chapter in our lives. We are both nervous and excited about the next chapter and the new opportunities and challenges retirement will bring. ‘We would like to sincerely thank our loyal customers, hard-working staff and our long-standing business partners. ‘We have many fond memories including: Santa visits and the Christmas buzz in the shop each December; Easter parade floats; celebrating Lotto wins with lucky customers; the infamous Bruce Springsteen and Garth Brooks ticket queues… to mention but a few. ‘ETL, with the support of its customers, has also survived many challenges down through the decades, including recessions, online shopping and the never to be forgotten Covid pandemic. We, like many other businesses, have frequently had to adapt, diversify and reinvent ourselves. The time has now come for us to take a step back, slow down and prioritise our health and family life. Roscommon has been a wonderful place to live, establish a business and raise a family and we are forever grateful to the wider Roscommon community for its support, friendship and custom over the years. ‘We will be open for the next five weeks which will enable those with vouchers to spend them during this period. ‘Please call into us over these coming weeks. We would love to see as many friendly faces as possible before we say farewell and close ETL’s door for the final time’. With sincere gratitude,

Michael & Rita Oates

and all the team at ETL Craft & Giftware, Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

Fallon to remain as Independent – with focus on Lough Funshinagh Cllr Laurence Fallon (Independent) says continuing to work to find a solution to the Lough Funshinagh flooding crisis will be a priority for him if he is re-elected to Roscommon County Council later this year. Confirming that he intends to contest this year’s local elections in June, Cllr Fallon said: “I have been an Independent Council-

Cllr Laurence Fallon (Independent)

lor since 2011 when I made the decision to stand with the people of Roscommon over the downgrading of Roscommon Hospital and to resign from Fine Gael. “Since then, I have continued to represent the area as an Independent Councillor and I will be contesting this year’s council elections as an Independent candidate once again”. Cllr Fallon resigned from Fine Gael in 2011 following the decision to close the A&E at Roscommon Hospital despite a previous commitment to keep the unit open. In a press statement, he said: “I am proud to represent the Athlone Electoral Area as an Independent Councillor and I have a proven track record of standing by the people of Roscommon and fighting for health services locally. “If re-elected to Roscommon County Council I will continue to represent, and work for, the community as an Independent councillor. “I also remain committed to working to find a solution to the Lough Funshinagh situation. This is a campaign that I have been spearheading for the last five years and I intend to continue to work to find a solution”.

Senator Micheál Carrigy, Cllr John Naughten, Domnick Connolly and Senator Aisling Dolan pictured at the Fine Gael convention in the Athlone Springs Hotel. Pic: Aisling Dolan

Domnick Connolly returns to Fine Gael Will contest election in Athlone area Former county councillor Domnick Connolly, who left Fine Gael in 2011 following the downgrading of Roscommon Hospital, is returning to the party and will run as a Fine Gael candidate in the local elections this June. Mr Connolly and sitting councillor John Naughten were selected at a Fine Gael convention for the Athlone

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Municipal District which was held in the Athlone Springs Hotel last Friday. The Fuerty native resigned along with his then fellow Fine Gael councillor Laurence Fallon in protest over the controversial closure of the A&E Unit at Roscommon Hospital. Mr Connolly is now returning to the party whereas Cllr Fallon (see story alongside) has no such intentions and will continue as an Independent. In a post on Facebook last Friday, Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said:

“Congratulations to Cllr John Naughten and previous councillor Domnick Connolly who are nominated this evening for Fine Gael”. She continued: “Both candidates have a wealth of experience as councillors in Roscommon County Council. John has worked with so many community groups in Drum and Athlone to fight for funding. Domnick is very well known for his work with clubs and community groups in Athleague and all around”.

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Kerrane presses minister on payments to farmers Sinn Féin spokesperson for Agriculture, Claire Kerrane TD, has again called on Minister McConalogue to provide a clear timeline for when delayed Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) payments will

be made to farmers. Deputy Kerrane called on the Minister to provide answers on delays to ACRES payments in December. The minister had previously stated that ACRES general stream payments would continue, while

ACRES co-operation project (CP) payments would commence in February, but no further information has been provided since then. Currently, there are 28,084 farmers who still have not received an ACRES payment.

Mary Egan pictured with Liam and May Byrne at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Urgent need for Speech and Language Therapy in Roscommon – Murphy Senator Eugene Murphy has highlighted the “urgent need” to fill vacant Speech and Language Therapist positions in Roscommon. Addressing the Minister for Disabilities in the Seanad, the senator said “There are a large number of children with special needs, including autistic children, in the county awaiting this service, and we all have to agree this is unacceptable in this day and age. “It is soul-destroying for parents to watch their children struggling to communicate and becoming increasingly frustrated and anxious as they cannot express themselves. “There is currently a severe lack of Speech and Language Therapists available in Roscommon and as far as

I am aware there is no indication that more will be available for the foreseeable future”. Responding to Senator Murphy, Minister Anne Rabbitte acknowledged the difficulty facing children and young people with disabilities, and the frustration borne by their families. “Currently, there are ongoing challenges in the recruitment and retention of staff across the whole healthcare sector, particularly the therapy professionals required in children’s disability services. This national issue is mirrored by a global shortage of healthcare professionals”. The Minister went on to state that the HSE’s ‘Be part of our team, be part

of their lives’ campaign, launched in December and January, is the first nationwide CDNT campaign focusing on the recruitment of dietitians, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists, social workers and speech and language therapists. “The campaign has been very successful, with 500 offers received. The HSE is going through those offers and the plan is to get back to people by mid-February, with the first round of interviews to be held by March 1st. That is a really positive step”. This response from the Minister has been welcomed by Senator Murphy and he has requested to be kept updated regarding the current applications and recruitment process.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

THURSDAY End of an era

We always knew it as Eight ‘Til Late… When Michael and Rita Oates opened ETL/Eight ‘Til Late in 1984, it was quickly embraced by the public. The location is a landmark one. We were drawn to that majestic building linking Main Street with the Square, its red-brick façade so distinctive and inviting. There was another reason why the people of Roscommon embraced Eight ‘Til Late. Michael and Rita were, and are, very popular proprietors… always very friendly and engaging. The new store immediately became a part of the fabric of our close-knit community. Michael, Rita and family – along with the many great staff who worked with them through the decades – always made calling to Eight ‘Til Late a pleasure. It was a modern store into which you popped for a newspaper, a packet of cigarettes, and other essentials of the day, but it also became a social hub, giving it a unique place in the everyday life of the county town. People don’t seem to stop for chats in shops these days in the way that we did then. When you called into Eight ‘Til Late for the paper, you might still be there 15 minutes later, you and a few more locals having banter about football with Michael, or just chatting about the latest national and local news. And we were all the better for it. Today, Michael and Rita Oates announced that after 40 years in business, they will be closing on the 2nd of March. They will do so with “heavy hearts” as they call time on a “very long and happy chapter” in their lives. This is the end of an era. Eight ‘Til Late has been at the centre of the commercial and community life of our great county town for 40 years. The store flourished in the heart of Roscommon, and its

ready under a bit of pressure in the National Football League. Today, we started well against Tyrone, but Davy Burke’s team ultimately lost their way. Despite having an extra man for most of the second half, Roscommon were outplayed, our lads lacking penetration in attack. We may have been denied a legitimate goal near the end, but in truth Roscommon didn’t do enough to secure one, much less two points. All eyes are now on this Sunday’s derby with Galway in Hyde Park.

MONDAY Post Office shock

legacy is that it is also in the hearts of generations of local families. On behalf of our readers, I wish Michael and Rita a long and happy retirement. Very happy memories will live on.

FRIDAY A welcome tip-off

An email pings in from our friends in the RTE PR Department, advising the Roscommon People newsroom that tonight’s Late Late Show will feature ‘six hopefuls’ battling it out to be chosen to represent Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest in May. I am of course deeply grateful for this very thoughtful heads-up/warning, and will make sure to take all necessary steps to avoid the show…

FRIDAY Goth it?

The RTE website is reporting that ‘Bambie Thug’ was tonight selected to represent Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest. RTE adds that Bambie’s music can best be described as “electrorap, confrontational performance art and effervescent, late-night goth pop”.

When it comes to a singsong, who doesn’t love a bit of electro-rap, confrontational performance art and effervescent, late-night goth pop?

SATURDAY The late John Connor

I was very saddened to hear of the untimely passing today of former Fine Gael politician John Connor, which followed a traffic accident in his native Frenchpark. He was a giant of Roscommon politics, one of four men who dominated the landscape here during a turbulent, enthralling era (1980s-early 1990s). The others were Sean Doherty, Liam Naughten and Terry Leyden. Connor was an excellent politician who really should have served at some ministerial level (but the cards didn’t fall for him on that front). He had no interest in opportunism, and certainly didn’t court the media. Instead, he put his head down and worked hard for his constituents, backed by a formidable ‘machine’ locally. A man of great intellect, he was an excellent orator, his speeches often delivered with a slightly dramatic flourish. In full flow, he commanded

an audience like a conductor who had orchestra and audience in the palm of his hands. Whether one encountered John Connor in the heat of political battle or in more sedate circumstances, he was always courteous, dignified and thoughtful. He experienced many political highs and lows, remaining philosophical about the latter, being well aware of the volatility of his profession. As older readers will recall, for a number of years he had a memorable rivalry with party colleague, the late Liam Naughten (it was mainly a consequence of simple mathematics: during a period of multiple elections, the Fine Gael vote locally was sufficient to win just one Dáil seat, and that prize was very fiercely pursued by the two Fine Gael heavyweights). A proud Roscommon man, John Connor served the county well over many years. My abiding memory of him is of a man of notable intellect and great courtesy. John Connor will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.

SUNDAY Tamed by Tyrone

One game in, and Roscommon are al-

Local politicians had a ‘behind closed doors’ meeting tonight, in the hope of ensuring that the doors of the landmark Roscommon Post Office building don’t close. Time will tell. As matters stand, the beautiful post office building at The Square will close soon, with the building then being sold (An Post plans to switch to a ‘contractorrun’ model, i.e. a new postmaster in a new location). People are angry. Will An Post, reminded of the custom of generations of Roscommon families over the decades, now take heed of the outcry and show loyalty to the community it serves?

TUESDAY And they’re off!

Well, that was an exhausting online read… According to reporter Mary Regan (RTE), 38 Government representatives – yep, 38 – will be on St Patrick’s Day duty abroad on behalf of Ireland next month. Between them, they will visit 86 cities in 48 countries. About 30 ministers will be plane-hopping (the others are various dignitaries, such as the Ceann Comhairle and the AG). It remains to be seen who will be left in charge… we’ll keep readers posted.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

Eimear and Andrew Reynolds pictured with their parents Finian and Hillary (centre) at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Mary Egan, Ger Glennon, Patricia Rogers, Maureen Hanly and Imelda Hanly pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

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Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

AN SCÉIM FEABHSAITHE AGUS COTHABHÁLA REILIGÍ 2024

LOCAL ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMME (LEP) 2024 Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2024 – deadline extended

Breithneoidh Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin iarratais ó ghrúpaí deonacha atá sásta oibreacha feabhsúcháin agus cothabhála a dhéanamh ar reiligí ina gceantar féin. Áireoidh an obair a cháileoidh do chúnamh deontais: Feabhsuithe Teorainn; Deisiúcháin ar chosáin agus Smacht ar fhéar agus fiailí (Trealamh a Cheannach). Ní mór an obair ar fad a dhéanamh de réir treoirlínte arna bhfoilsiú ag Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí. Is féidir tuilleadh sonraí agus foirmeacha iarratais a fháil ó Rannóg Bóithre agus Iompair Chomhairle Contae Ros Comáin ag an seoladh thíos nó seol ríomhphost chuig roads@roscommoncoco.ie Is féidir foirmeacha a íoslódáil freisin ó shuíomh gréasáin Chomhairle Contae Ros Comáin: www.roscommoncoco.ie Dáta deiridh le haghaidh foirmeacha comhlánaithe a fháil: Dé hAoine, 16ú Feabhra 2024 An Roinn Bóithre agus Iompair Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin

The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 is open for applications from community groups for capital support, essential for many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.

HOW TO APPLY – deadline extended

DEADLINE EXTENDED

Applications must be submitted for the LEP through Roscommon County Council’s website, ‘My Online Services’ at https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com

The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 is open for applications from community groups for capital support, essential for many groups and organisations, particularly Full details of the small schemecommunity are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas. Late submissions will not be considered

TO APPLY Closing date for receipt of completedHOW online applications has been extended to 1pm on Monday

th Applications must be submitted for the LEP12 through Roscommon County Council’s website of February, 2024 . website through ‘Myrelating Online to Services’ at https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com Any queries the application process or eligibility for the scheme can be emailed to: or by scanning the QR code on right lep@roscommoncoco.ie Full details of the scheme are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie Late submissions will not be considered Signed: Mark Keaveney, Director of Services Closing date for receipt of completed online applications has been extended to 1pm on Monday 12th February, 2024. Any queries relating to the application process or eligibility for the scheme can be emailed to: lep@roscommoncoco.ie

Signed: Mark Keaveney, Director of Services

ELECTORAL REGISTER UPDATE

Referendum on the Thirty-ninth Amendment of the Constitution (The Family) Bill 2023 and the Fortieth Amendment of the Constitution (Care) Bill 2023

ARE YOU ON THE REGISTER OF ELECTORS?

The referenda on the proposals contained in the Thirty-ninth Amendment of the Constitution (The Family) Bill 2023 and the Fortieth Amendment of the Constitution (Care) Bill 2023 will be held on 8th March 2024. If you are eligible to vote and not on the Register of Electors, you must apply on or before Tuesday 20th February 2024.

COMMUNITY FESTIVAL AND EVENTS GRANT SCHEME 2024 Roscommon County Council are currently taking applications for the Community Festival and Events Grant Scheme 2024. The Festival and Events Programme is aimed at festivals and events that fit within one of the following categories: • Fund A - A Community Festival – held over a minimum of 3 consecutive days’ duration • Fund B - A Community Tourism Event – An event held on a day/evening including literary, historic, culture event, food & drink, family focused etc. Application form and full Terms & Conditions of the scheme can be downloaded from our website www.roscommoncoco.ie Completed applications should be submitted by 4pm on Tuesday 20th February 2024. Signed:- Mark Keaveney, Director of Services.

To be eligible to vote in a Referendum: • You must be 18 years of age on or before Friday, 8th March 2024. • You must be living full time at the address at which you wish to be registered. • You must have Irish citizenship. How to apply: • On-line on www.checktheregister.ie • Hard copy forms (ERF1) are available at Roscommon County Council’s Headquarters at the address below. Copies are also available to download at www.checktheregister.ie

POSTAL VOTE

If your illness or disability or due to your work/service or study reasons will prevent you from attending a polling station on polling day, you may be entitled to vote by post. If entitled to, you must apply for your postal vote on or before Monday 12th February 2024. Contact Roscommon County Council at 090 6637390 or Email regelectors@roscommoncoco.ie to enquire about your eligibility to vote by post. Forms to apply for a postal vote can be downloaded at www.checktheregister.ie or by scanning the QR code on right All completed forms must be returned by either email to regelectors@roscommoncoco.ie or by Freepost, Register of Electors FRN3, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98. Caitlín Conneely, Director of Services

OPENING HOURS IN ÁRAS AN CHONTAE: MOTOR TAX OFFICE 9.30am to 1.00pm only Monday to Friday. ALL OTHER SERVICES are open 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday. PHONE SERVICES AVAILABLE from 9.30am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Phone: (090) 6637100 Email: customerservices@roscommoncoco.ie

@RoscommonCountyCouncil @roscommoncoco

www.roscommoncoco.ie

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

‘Carmel Grealy is a gift to our community’ Ballinasloe woman wins top community award Carmel Grealy (Brackernagh, Ballinasloe) was named the outright winner of the prestigious Her Sports Community Award 2024 (sponsored by Energia) for her remarkable contribution to the community, at the recent Her Sports Awards, held in UCD’s AdAstra Hall in Dublin on Saturday, January 29th. At the awards, Katie McCabe was named the winner of the Athlete of the Year category, with Ireland’s Women Rugby 7s picking up Team of the Year in recognition of their historic Olympic qualification. The fact that two Women Rugby 7s players in that team started their rugby journey at U-11s’ Mixed Rugby, coming though in the Ballinasloe Community Games, was a testament to Carmel’s enduring community contribution and impact on sport. Carmel became involved with Ballinasloe Community Games in 1973 and has been a stalwart of the organisation ever since. She has held many prominent roles at both county and national level over the course of her 50-year association with this voluntary sporting organisation. “Carmel Grealy is a gift to our community and she never looks for individual credit for her own work. This is why I was determined to nominate her as most worthy for the Her Sports Community Award” said Independent Ballinasloe councillor Evelyn Parsons. Cllr Parsons accompanied Carmel to the awards ceremony to celebrate her achievement, along with Carmel’s daughter Miriam Murphy and granddaughter Maeve Keegan.

Pictured on Saturday at the Her Sports Awards in UCD’s AdAstra Hall in Dublin was Miriam Murphy (Carmel Grealy’s daughter), Carmel Grealy (winner of the Her Sports Community Award), Ballinasloe Cllr Evelyn Parsons (who nominated Carmel), and Maeve Keegan (Carmel’s granddaughter).

Glanduff National School

Now accepting enrolments for September 2024

OPEN EVENING

on Thursday 8th February, 6-7pm Enrolment form available on the website or by contacting the school.

TELEPHONE: 090 64 89317

Email: glanduffnsroscommon@gmail.com Twitter: @glanduffns Website: www.glanduffns.ie

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE

RESIDENTIAL ZONED LAND TAX ANNUAL DRAFT MAP Section 80 of Finance Act 2021 & Part 22A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (TCA 1997). Pursuant to its obligations regarding the Residential Zoned Land Tax, Roscommon County Council advises that an annual draft map, prepared in accordance with Section 653C, as modified by Section 653M of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, has been published and is available online on the Roscommon County Council website and also available for inspection at its following offices and libraries during normal opening hours: • Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town, F42 VR98 • Athlone Municipal District Office, 41 Millbrook Avenue, Monksland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37 D890 • Boyle Municipal District Office, Cootehall Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, F52 X436 • Strokestown Public Library, Bawn Street, Vesnoy, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, F42 RH39 • Castlerea Public Library, Main Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, F45 C8P7 The annual draft map has been prepared for the purposes of identifying land that satisfies the relevant criteria and is to be subject to the residential zoned land tax. Residential properties, notwithstanding that they may be included on the annual draft map, shall not be chargeable to the residential zoned land tax. Land which satisfies the relevant criteria is a reference to land that— (a)

is included in a development plan, in accordance with section 10(2) (a) of the Act of 2000, or local area plan, in accordance with section 19(2)(a) of the Act of 2000, zoned— (i) solely or primarily for residential use, or (ii) for a mixture of uses, including residential use,

(b) it is reasonable to consider may have access, or be connected, to public infrastructure and facilities, including roads and footpaths, public lighting, foul sewer drainage, surface water drainage and water supply, necessary for dwellings to be developed and with sufficient service capacity available for such development, and (c) it is reasonable to consider is not affected, in terms of its physical condition, by matters to a sufficient extent to preclude the provision of dwellings, including contamination or the presence of known archaeological or historic remains, but which is not land—

Submissions on the annual draft RZLT map may be made in writing to Roscommon County Council not later than 5pm 1st April 2024, regarding— (I) either the inclusion in or exclusion from the final map of specific sites, or (II) the date on which a site first satisfied the relevant criteria. Please Note: Address for Submissions in writing to ‘RZLT’, Planning Section, Roscommon County Council, Aras on Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98. A submission template is available on the Roscommon County Council website to facilitate online submissions and should be used by parties intending to make a submission. To view please scan the following QR code (on right) Submissions should include a name and address, reasons for inclusion or exclusion of lands, along with a map of scale 1:1,000 where the submission is made by a landowner, clearly identifying/highlighting the relevant plot of land. Any such written submissions received by 5pm 1st April 2024 other than such elements of a submission which may constitute personal data, shall be published on the website maintained by Roscommon County Council not later than 11th April 2024. The proposed inclusions and proposed exclusions on the annual draft map are subject to submissions received. Any landowners who supports the exclusion of their land should make a submission in support of such exclusion. Where land is identified on the annual draft map as being subject to the residential zoned land tax and where the land identified on the draft map is included in a development plan or local area plan in accordance with section 10(2)(a) or 19(2)(a) of the Act of 2000 zoned— (i) solely or primarily for residential use, or

(i)

that is referred to in paragraph (a)(i) and, having regard only to development (within the meaning of the Act of 2000) which is not unauthorised development (within the meaning of the Act of 2000), is in use as premises, in which a trade or profession is being carried on, that is liable to commercial rates, that it is reasonable to consider is being used to provides services to residents of adjacent residential areas, (ii) that is referred to in paragraph (a)(ii), unless it is reasonable to consider that the land is vacant or idle, (iia) the development of which would not conform with— (I) in a case in which the land is zoned in a development plan, the phased basis in accordance with which development of land is to take place under the plan, as detailed in the core strategy included in that plan in accordance with section 10(2A)(d) of the Act of 2000, or (II) in a case in which the land is zoned in a local area plan, the objective, consistent with the objectives and core strategy of the development plan for the area in respect of which the local area plan is prepared, of development of land on a phased basis, included in the local area plan in accordance with section 19(2) of the Act of 2000, on the date on which satisfaction of the criteria in this section is being assessed, (iii) that it is reasonable to consider is required for, or is integral to, occupation by— (I) social, community or governmental infrastructure and facilities, including infrastructure and facilities used for the purposes of public administration or the provision of education or healthcare, (II) transport facilities and infrastructure, (III) energy infrastructure and facilities, (IV) telecommunications infrastructure and facilities, (V) water and wastewater infrastructure and facilities, (VI) waste management and disposal infrastructure, or (VII) recreational infrastructure, including sports facilities and playgrounds, (iv) that is subject to a statutory designation that may preclude development, or (v) on which the derelict sites levy is payable in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

(ii) for a mixture of uses, including residential use, a person may on or before 5pm 31st May 2024, in respect of aforementioned land that such a person owns, make a submission to Roscommon County Council requesting a variation of the zoning of that land. Any such submission should include evidence of ownership, detailed reasons for any rezoning request, along with a map to a scale of 1:1,000, clearly identifying the relevant plot of land. Any such written rezoning requests received by 5pm 31st May 2024 other than such elements of a submission which may constitute personal data, shall be published on the website maintained by Roscommon County Council not later than 10th June 2024. All rezoning requests made will be considered by Roscommon County Council having regard to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. Data Protection Written observations or submissions received by Roscommon County Council will be published on the aforementioned website. All submissions should include your name and a contact address, and where relevant, details of any organisation, community group or company etc., which you represent. To assist Roscommon County Council in complying with data protection legislation, you are asked to provide this information on a separate sheet. This processing of your personal data is lawful under Article 6 (1)(e) of the GDPR regulations. The Council’s Data Protection Policy is available to view by scanning the following QR code (on right) The policy is also available in hard copy upon request.

Signed: Greg O’Donnell, A/Director of Services, Roscommon County Council. Date: 1st February 2024

@RoscommonCountyCouncil @roscommoncoco

www.roscommoncoco.ie

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

Seven nurse specialists graduated from Saolta’s first hybrid post-graduate Children’s Nursing Diploma in conjunction with CHI and Trinity College Dublin recently. Pictured are (l-r), Amy Gannon, Mayo University Hospital; Helen Rooney, Galway University Hospital; Faith Zinyemba, Letterkenny University Hospital; Agnieszka Maria Kuczewska, Sligo University Hospital; Lorna Middleton, Sligo University Hospital and Soumya Assariparambil Renjan, Portiuncula University Hospital. (Absent from the photo is Cáit Costello, Portiuncula University Hospital).

A first for Saolta’s Children’s Nursing Graduates Last year, seven new Children’s Nursing Specialists graduated from an innovative postgraduate programme developed by Saolta in conjunction with Trinity College Dublin and Children’s Health Ireland. The newly qualified specialist nurses are based in Letterkenny

University Hospital, Sligo University Hospital, Mayo University Hospital, Galway University Hospital and Portiuncula University Hospital. This programme is unique in that it delivers a blended learning model with remote and in-person lectures, and is the only pathway

which allows post-registration nurses to pursue a Higher Diploma in Children’s Nursing without undertaking a course based in Dublin. Children’s healthcare services are facing ever-increasing demands due to the evolving profile of children’s healthcare needs.

The number of Children’s Nurses qualifying is low in comparison with other disciplines and this programme was born from a need to ensure Saolta’s nursing teams continue to have the highest level of skill, qualification and training to care for our younger population.

Murphy and Crosby welcome ‘ATM Access to Cash’ Bill Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed local improvements to cash accessibility, stating that all main towns in County Roscommon now have ATMs and that all villages have access to cash until late in the evening. Senator Murphy said this accessibility was down to the “tremendous work of Roscommon Credit Union, who fulfilled the vacuum left by the main banks when they closed their branches in the county”. He added: “I welcome the moves by Finance Minister Michael McGrath to introduce legislation so as to insist that members of the public have access to cash”. Meanwhile, Cllr Tom Crosby has welcomed the ‘Access to Cash Bill’ which aims to ensure that there is “reasonable ac-

Senator Eugene Murphy

Cllr Tom Crosby

cess” to cash at ATMs nationwide. The Access to Cash Bill will, it is hoped, ensure there is no further decline in the number of ATMs in towns and villages around the country, and sets out to restore the number of

ATMs to 2022 levels, prior to the departure of Ulster Bank and KBC from the market. Cllr Crosby said, “There are currently only three retail banks in Ireland, where previously there were 12. The constituency in which

I am based has sadly seen a major upheaval in this area, with the loss of banks in both Strokestown and Elphin to name but two areas. “Figures show that before the recent pandemic, just under €20 billion was withdrawn from ATMs in Ireland, falling to €13.4 billion in 2022, an obvious decline – yet it is my belief and the belief of those I speak to, especially the older generation, that cash is the favoured method of payment for transactions. “Therefore I warmly welcome the introduction of this bill, which will closely analyse the current geographical situation and define what reasonable access to cash is and it my hope that this announcement is good news for rural Ireland,” concluded Cllr Crosby.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Memories of Wild Bill… and when Harvey made his way into the Oxford Dictionary! Our man Frank is all nostalgic for some great sporting characters of the past; Pride in his daughter Tara’s showjumping success; Musings on how much the Eurovision Song Contest has changed… Outside of what are in my book the big four sports – Gaelic football and hurling, rugby, and I’ll reluctantly include soccer – some of the so-called minority sports have given us stars whose names will be forever remembered. However, for some reason there were more of those famous sportspeople and characters back in days gone by. Snooker had the hugely unpredictable genius that was Alex Higgins, along with household names (at the time) like Jimmy White, Steve Davis, Dennis Taylor, and the Canadian Bill Werbeniuk… the latter was maybe more famous for his drinking bouts than for his snooker. It is said that the late Bill successfully claimed tax relief on the price of six pints of lager, which he (allegedly)

Bambie Thug

needed to drink before every game in order to settle his nerves. Medical grounds! (On one occasion, it is said that Bill downed 43 pints of lager during a game with Scotsman Eddie Sinclair; the game ended when Sinclair passed out after his 42nd pint). Darts threw up (another terrible pun) Eric Bristow, Jocky Wilson, John Lowe and Bobby George, and in the world of showjumping, here in Ireland we had superstars like Granard’s Eddie Macken, Paul Darragh, Tommy Wade, James Kernan and Captain Con Power. Over in England, there were big stars like David Broome, Nick Skelton and the Whitaker brothers. But the individual who did most to popularise the sport was a man of the people, Harvey Smith. Back in 1971, Harvey arrived back to the massive showjumping event that is Hickstead, where he had won the previous year, but without bringing back the cup that was meant to be presented to the next winner. He was suitably ticked off by the owner of Hickstead (and a judge of the competition), one Douglas Bunn, but Harvey told him it didn’t matter as he was going to win it again anyway. Bunn responded that this wouldn’t be possible, but the remarkable thing was that Harvey was as good as his word!

When he won second time around, he turned and gave Mr Bunn the two fingers – a gesture that the showjumper freely admitted was of an offensive nature. As a result, the Hickstead Committee decided to keep Smith’s prizemoney of £2,000… that is until Harvey brought in photos of Sir Winston Churchill with his ‘V for Victory’ signs, now claiming his own two-finger gesture was also meant to signify ‘V for Victory’. Harvey got his prizemoney in the end, which he was well entitled to. His gesture became so famous that the Oxford Dictionary included it as ‘doing a Harvey Smith’ – and Harvey himself made a nice few bob for advertising Victory V lozenges. Since that memorable era, showjumping seemed to lose its huge appeal for the sporting public for a number of years. Even the one-time must-watch television event – The Aga Khan Trophy/Cup – became a little less popular. However, nowadays we once again have world class jumpers like Bertram Allen, Cian O’Connor, Denis Lynch, Shane Breen and Denis Sweetnam, who are hugely successful all over the world. As a result, the Dublin Horse Show and Aga Khan trophy are back up at the top of the showjumping tree.

Creggs’ Tara an All-Ireland champion All of the above leads me to mention that out here in Creggs we have an All-Ireland Amateur Showjumping Champion of our own – and of course the fact that she is our daughter, Tara, makes it that bit more special for us. Last Friday night, at a big ‘do’ in The McWilliam Park Hotel in Claremorris, Tara was presented with two major trophies (see photo) – the Champion Amateur Rider in Connacht, and the AllIreland Amateur Rider Champion – this recognition coming a number of years after her mother, Carol, also claimed a couple of national titles in the RDS with her pony, Ard Riogh. I always say that it is awful hard to win any trophy, be it a local county football title or a pub darts competition, but to win a national title – which in this instance comprises of competing at shows all around the country for a full season – takes a lot of dedication, effort and skill, so we are very proud of Tara. All we can say is heartiest congratulations. It’s nice to have an AllIreland winner in the house!

And finally… Bambie Thug… and memories of Eurovision Song Contests of the past Talking of ‘must-watch’ television, I told you before how as a young boarder in Cistercian College in Roscrea way back in the 1960s, one of the special treats I and my friends had was being allowed to watch the Eurovision Song Contest. We were all ‘herded’ into the recreation hall, where a couple of hundred of us watched the action unfold on a black and white television. In 1965, Butch Moore, the lead singer with the Capitol Showband, represented Ireland with a beautiful ballad – ‘Walking the Streets in the Rain’ – finishing in a very creditable sixth place. For many years I couldn’t miss the Eurovision, and wonderful timeless songs like ‘All Kinds of Everything’ and ‘What’s Another Year’ (among many others) put Ireland on top of the very prestigious Eurovision pile. Then politics took over. Voting became totally politicised and the song was no longer particularly relevant; countries voted for their neighbours even if their entry sounded like a donkey braying (apologies to donkeys) and

the whole thing also increasingly depended on often outrageous visual effects. So I stopped watching it a good few years ago. Then last Friday night I happened to be watching the Late Late Show and found myself tuned into a very odd selection contest for our entry into this year’s Eurovision. Bambie Thug’s ‘Doomsday Blue’ song will now be our representative in the contest in Sweden later this year, and while I can’t make head or tail of the song or its content, everyone seems to think it’s the ideal one to do well in the Eurovision. Time will tell, but as popular as it appears to be, it’s certainly not my cup of tea and I will not be tuning in in May to see this year’s contest from Malmo. How I long for the days of a small black and white telly about a half a mile away (with a couple of hundred heads blocking my view) and the soothing tones of Butch Moore and ‘Walking the Streets in the Rain’ filling the entire recreation hall! I wish Bambie Thug well, but – showing my age – I wish it was Johnny Logan or Dana!

You may recall that in last week’s edition I told you about a Ladies Night that was coming up in Gannon’s in Creggs on Saturday night last. Well, what a night it turned out to be! All the ladies of the parish, young and not-soyoung, turned up ‘togged’ out in their Sunday best, and Gannon’s was packed to capacity. The music and karaoke was provided by Noel Doyle, and the singers were falling over themselves (not literally) to perform. The good news is that the Karaoke Queen herself, Dympna Collins, was back in action and singing better than ever. There was great interest in the make-up demonstration (even by a few of the lads), and the raffle was a tremendous success, with the big €250 voucher for Brown Thomas being won by my own sister-in-law, Fiona. The Parents’ Association wish to thank everybody for their fantastic support, all the businesses and individuals who were so generous with their donations of raffle prizes, everyone who gave up their time to help out, the hardworking staff in Gannon’s, the music man Noel, and especially all who turned up and made Ladies Night such a success. Last week I wondered if people were ready to come back out after the terrible effects of Covid – Saturday night represented an emphatic ‘Yes, they are!’ in response! (Editor’s note: See photo spread from this event in our next issue).

for now ’Til next week, bye

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

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‘The Rambling House’ comes to Cloonfad! Reliving the magic of the rambling house of old! The second in a series of Rambling House-type gatherings being held countywide will take place on Sunday, 11th of February next in Cloonfad.

The day’s activities will begin at 4 pm and everyone is welcome! This unique community event is the brainchild

The Rambling House The Rambling House was a traditional place in Ireland, where locals entertained with stories, song and dance, long before modern technology came along

of Cllr Anthony Waldron and has the backing of renowned charity ALONE, which caters for people who are living in isolation and/or experiencing loneliness. Roscommon LEADER and The Suck Valley Way are also supportive of the initiative. The ‘Rambling House’ event will feature the traditions associated with Ireland’s famous rambling houses of bygone years – including music, storytelling, and craic. The venue for the second such event – the last one was held in Ballintubber in December – is The Three Counties public house in Cloonfad, County Roscommon. There will also be a serious, supportive aspect to proceedings, with representatives from ALONE addressing attendees to outline the services and

supports that are available locally. Roscommon LEADER will also be represented. Amongst the special guests will be renowned seanchaí, Vincent Pierse. A number of other guests will also perform. Born in North Kerry, Vincent Pierse inherited his gift of telling stories and yarns from storytellers of his locality. He grew up listening to stories made famous by characters like the late, great seanchaí Eamon Kelly. Vincent has performed at festivals all over Ireland, the UK, in the US and Canada. It promises to be a memorable day in The Three Counties in Cloonfad on Sunday, 11th of February next. Make sure to go along, and bring a family member, friend or neighbour!

Please join us on Sunday 11th February, 2024 at 4pm

The Three Counties Function Room, Cloonfad Village

In partnerships with the following sponsors As part of the first ‘Rambling House’ event in this series – held last December – an Ecumenical Prayer Service was held in St Bride’s Church, Ballintubber. Pictured back row, left to right: Sarah Keane, Emily Keane, Rev Richard Kennedy, Rev Ed Smyth, Fr Julian Lipton, Cllr Anthony Waldron. Front row, left to right: Fr Pat O’Toole, Karen Byrne (of ALONE).

Bring a story or a song! All are very welcome!

Equipment worth €3k stolen from Athlone FC stadium Gardaí are investigating the theft of electrical equipment worth approximately €3,000 from Athlone Town FC’s stadium. In a statement posted on Facebook, the club said that the theft occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning last. Referencing the fact that it is not the first time the club has been targeted by criminals, Athlone Town FC said “this repeated occurrence is extreme-

ly disheartening”. The club added that the equipment is crucial for its operations, particularly for streaming their matches. The statement continued: “Our club has always strived to bring our football to as many people as possible and these incidents severely impact our ability to do so”. Appealing to anyone who may have been in the vicinity of the sta-

dium at around 3 am on Thursday, January 25th to contact Gardaí, the club added: “This is more than just a loss of equipment; it’s an attack on the spirit of our club. “We are determined to overcome this setback and continue our mission of bringing football to our supporters. We appreciate any assistance the public can provide in this matter”.

Mother and daughter become Eucharistic Ministers

In a beautiful, uplifting ceremony which took place recently, Mary and Maggie Keenan (mother and daughter) from Kilmore, County Roscommon, were both commissioned as Eucharistic Ministers during Holy Mass in Dangan Church by Rev Father Stephen Ezenwegbu, PP of Aughrim/Kilmore Parish. Although the parish has had Eucharistic Ministers for a number of years, it was the first time the Commissioning took place in the local church. Seeing the anointing with oil of the hands, and hearing the prayers, brought home to the congregation the Sacredness of the Holy Eucharist and the responsibility it is to be a Eucharistic Minister.

Ballymurray National School is currently accepting enrolments for 2024/25. Enrolment forms are available from the Principal, Tom Gately at principal@ballymurrayns.com The school will hold an OPEN DAY on Thursday, February 1st, between 4 and 6 pm You are welcome to come and view the school and meet the staff Closing date for enrolments is February 27th, 2024

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

Roscommon activist Latisha selected for prestigious Activist Bootcamp A County Roscommon woman was amongst a group of just 21 people selected for a prestigious ‘activist bootcamp’ that took place recently. Latisha McCrudden, from Ballaghaderreen, was selected to participate in the Alice Academy for Activists due to her work on social justice campaigns. Latisha advocates for women and children who experience domestic abuse. As a member of the Irish Traveller community, Latisha has spoken on panels as

a Traveller youth changemaker, and highlighted the need for better supports for the community. Latisha is currently studying law at the University of Galway. The Alice Academy for Activists was established and run by Alice Public Relations, a communications agency that works to create positive change across Ireland and further afield. The agency brought together 21 activists from across the island of Ireland to improve their skills and knowledge

in areas such as campaign strategy, polling and research, fundraising, coalition-building, political engagement, media relations, and digital communications. Several well-known campaigners appeared as special guests over the four days, including Ailbhe Smyth, who led Ireland’s campaign to repeal the Eighth Amendment; human rights lawyer and social justice campaigner Noeline Blackwell; migrant rights activist Teresa

Buczkowska; and Senator Lynn Ruane. Martina Quinn, CEO and founder of Alice Public Relations, said: “Alice Public Relations works to create change that makes Ireland and the world a better place. Since we were established in 2015, we’ve worked on campaigns on gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, climate action, healthcare, access to education and training, children’s rights, integration, and lots more”.

Latisha McCrudden (who is from Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon) is pictured at the Alice Academy for Activists. Photographer: Barry Cronin

newsbriefs Roscommon Ploughing Association Table Quiz

Roscommon Ploughing Association are hosting a Monster Table Quiz in the Jailhouse Bar, Castle Street, Roscommon, on Friday, February 16th 2024, at 9 pm. All support on the night much appreciated.

Service for families who have experienced loss of a baby or child

Portiuncula University Hospital in Ballinasloe is inviting parents and their families who have experienced bereavement through the death of a child or who have lost a baby through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth or after birth, to a remembrance service which will take place in the hospital on Monday, February 12th. Deirdre Naughton (Director of Midwifery at the hospital) said, “This service offers parents who have experienced bereavement an opportunity to reflect on their grief journey through symbol, music and prayer. Parents who have attended this service in the past have shared with us that they have found it to be a time of healing and comfort”. The service will take place at 7.30 pm on Monday, February 12th in the hospital chapel, and families are welcome to join other families for light refreshments afterwards.

Roscommon Town ICA Guild meeting

Roscommon Town ICA Guild will hold its first meeting of 2024 in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon on Tuesday, 6th of February at 8 pm. The guild is looking forward to a year of crafting, activity and outings. New members always welcome.

A Table Quiz for Fuerty GAA Lip Sync

A Table Quiz will be held on Friday, 9th of February in PJ’s Bar, Castlecoote, in aid of Fuerty GAA Lip Sync Competition. Tables of four: €40. The quiz will start at 9.30 pm. Spot prizes on the night. Please support.

LOCALLY OWNED AND IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY!

ROAD WORKS SPEED LIMIT ORDER

ROAD WORKS SPEED ORDER Road Traffic Act 2004, LIMIT Section 10 Road Traffic Act 2004, Section 10 Notice in in accordance withwith Section 10 of10 the TrafficTraffic Act, 2004 Roscommon County Council Noticeisishereby herebygiven, given, accordance Section ofRoad the Road Act,that 2004 that Roscommon County has made a Road Works Speed Limit Order to apply a Speed Limit as set out in the schedule below at the locations as Council has made a Road Works Speed Limit Order to apply a Speed Limit as set out in the schedule below at set out in the schedule below.

the locations as set out in the schedule below.

SCHEDULE Location

Description

Road Works Starting Speed Coordinates Limit (Km/h) N5 Ballaghaderreen Commence the 60 Km/h speed limit on the N5, 1027m east of 60 Km/h X = 568482.138 bypass to the L1244 junction, to 315m east of the L5597 Junction Y = 793220.593 Frenchpark R361 Frenchpark to Extend the existing 50 Km/h speed limit, where the current 50 Km/h X = 572786.764 Castlerea Road posted limit is increased to 80 Km/h heading out of Y = 790877.198 Frenchpark to 300m northeast of the junction of the R361 and L56292 N5 Frenchpark to Apply a 60 Km/h speed limit starting 562m north of the 60 Km/h X = 574198.483 Bellanagare Road junction of the N5 and L5641 to 310m south of the junction of Y = 789424.810 the N5 and L5641 R369 Elphin to Extend the existing 50 Km/h speed limit, where the current 50 Km/h X = 585936.568 Garrynphort posted limit is increased to 80 Km/h heading out of Elphin to Y = 788009.676 388m west of the junction of the R369 and L5753, beside the Main Site Compound N61 Boyle to Tulsk Commence the 50 Km/h speed limit on the N61, 420m north 50 Km/h X = 585353.613 Road of the junction of the N61 and R369 at Shankill, to 23m north Y = 787999.713 of the junction of the N61 and L6117 L1412 Elphin to Apply a 50 Km/h speed limit on the L1412 starting 87m north 50 Km/h X = 587220.845 Lurgan of the junction of the L1412 and L1409 Killeen East and Y = 786605.823 extending 979m south R368 Elphin to Apply a 50 Km/h speed limit on the R368 starting at 80m 50 Km/h X = 589767.347 Strokestown north of the junction of the R368 and L1410 Kiltrustan Road to Y = 786666.154 442m south of the junction of the R368 and L6030 L1405 north of Extend the existing 50 Km/h speed limit, where the current 50 Km/h X = 594074.901 Strokestown posted limit is increased to 80km/h heading out of Y = 782639.958 Strokestown to 238m north of the junction of the R1405 and L1414 N5 Strokestown to Commence the 60 Km/h speed limit on the N5, 865m west of 60 Km/h X = 595676.766 Termonbarry the junction of the N5 and R371 at Scramogue, to 264m east Y = 779468.63 of the junction of the N5 and R371 at Scramogue

Finishing Coordinates X = 569387.208 Y = 792924.491 X = 572145.258 Y = 790329.637

X = 574432.806 Y = 788596.853 X = 578671.035

Y = 787183.383

X = 585074.792 Y = 785719.320 X = 587135.982 Y = 785634.46

X = 590479.683 Y = 785603.662 X = 593531.237 Y = 781860.038

X = 596777.728 Y = 779563.024

The Limit Order is to roadroad improvement works and applies from from 7th February 20242024 to TheRoad RoadWorks WorksSpeed Speed Limit Order is facilitate to facilitate improvement works and applies 7th February 6th February 2025. The Chief Executive shall have regard to any representations that are made to him in relation th to 6 February 2025. The Chief Executive shall have regard to any representations that are made to himtoin this Road Works Speed Limit Order.

relation to this Road Works Speed Limit Order.

Greg O’Donnell, Acting Director of Services.

Greg O’Donnell, Acting Director of Services, Roads and Transportation, Roscommon County Council.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

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FEEVAGH N.S. Dysart, Co. Roscommon

Advertorial

Upcoming open evening for new enrolments at Feevagh NS

Feevagh National School is a three-teacher school (two classroom teachers and one special education teacher) located less than five minutes from the village of Dysart in the parish of Ballyforan, Dysart and Tisrara in the beautiful South Roscommon countryside. Feevagh NS offers an excellent opportunity for pupils to enjoy their primary education in a friendly, welcoming and child-centred environment. We offer a low pupil-teacher ratio ensuring all children benefit from a more personalised and supportive learning environment. We follow the primary school curriculum, placing emphasis on numeracy and literacy to challenge the abilities of all children attending. A catholic ethos flows through the life of the school and we aim to cater for the academic and social needs of children of all abilities. We strive to deliver the curriculum using a variety of methods in a friendly, warm, supportive and caring environment. Sport Feevagh NS promotes physical education, offering a range of activities including Gaelic football, hurling, soccer, basketball, swimming, gymnastics, rounders, cycling, table tennis and dance. We were recently awarded our second Active Flag in recognition of our outstanding sporting achievements. A new multi-purpose playing pitch has been installed to the back of the school to further enhance our modern school facilities. Green Schools and Environmental Education At Feevagh NS we are promoting long-term, whole-school action for the environment and we are currently on track to receive our 8th Green Flag (Global Citizenship – Marine Environment). The children lead the Green Schools programme and we work th closely with our local Tidy Towns Committee and the children get the opportunity to care for their local area by participating in Come along and see our wonderful, modern school. All Welcome! An Taisce’s National Spring Clean. We have received numerous gold and silver awards for our parSupervision 2023 Admissfor io n s N o w O pen in the Agri Aware Incredible Edibles Project. This is a 2024 Admissions Now Open ticipation eating project for primary schools. Contact info@feevaghns.ie forhealthy an Contact info@feevaghns.ie for an Infants from The arts Enrolment Form, phone 090 6622200 or Enrolment Form, phone 090 6622200 We have been selected to participate in the BLAST (bringing live download the form from our website, 2.10pm or download the form from our arts to students and teachers) initiative for the third year in a row. www.feevaghns.ie website, www.feevaghns.ie to 3.10pm To date, the children have had the opportunity to experience creative dance and record their own music, songs and videos. This year we will be working with visual artist Rosemary Langtry tolearning create an art installation in our school grounds. Low pupil-teacher ratio ensuring individualised Feevagh NS values the promotion of drama and music. We Strong ties to the local community Supervision for hold a Christmas Concert in Infants our school each year and offer the opportunity for 2.10pm senior students to learn the tin whistle and we • Low pupil-teacher ratio ensuring individualised learning classrooms Well-resourced from to 3.10pm also attend performances in Roscommon Arts Centre and local • Strong ties to the local community Secondary School musicals. Aistear play-based learning STEM • Well-resourced classrooms Welcoming and inclusive of all children Feevagh NS promotes a hands-on, enquiry-based approach to • Aistear play-based learning STEM Catering for the academic and social needs of learning. children of all abilities. This year we have already taken part in Maths Week and Sci• Welcoming and inclusive of all children Delivering the curriculum using a varietyence of methods in alook friendly, Week and we forward warm, to participating in Engineers • Catering for the academic and social needs of children of all abilities. Week. supportive, and caring environment. Children have the opportunity to work individually on laptops • Delivering the curriculum using a variety of methods in a friendly, warm, and tablets and utilise Google Workspace accounts. supportive, and caring environment. We are on the way to achieving a Science Foundation Ireland Curious Minds Award and children are given the opportunity to use coding programmes. Sport: Gymnastics, Soccer, Gaelic Football, Hurling/Camogie, Basketball, Swimming, Languages Athletics (Participation in the Active School Flag WeProgramme) have just finished our second module of French lessons through the ‘Say Yes to Languages’ Programme. Children were STEM: Participation in Science/Engineering/Maths Week, individual use of laptops • Sport: Gymnastics, Soccer, Gaelic Football, immersed in the language during an 8-week course provided by Hurling/Camogie, Basketball, Swimming, and tablets, coding, cyber safety, Google workspace accounts for senior students, PPLI Tutor Lesa Rice. Athletics (Participation in the Active School Wellbeing Doodle Learning App in Maths and English giving every child a personalised work Flag Programme) Feevagh NS recognises the importance of student wellbeing and programme tailored to their strengths and weaknesses • STEM: Participation in Science/Engineering/ are currently participating in the Pieta Amber Flag Programme The Arts/Music: Participation in BLAST (Bringing Livesecond Arts to Students Maths Week, individual use of laptops for the year running. and Teachers), This initiative recognises our school’s effort to create a healthy, and tablets, coding, cyber safety, Google Creative Schools (run by the Arts Council), trips to the Theatre, Tin-Whistle in Senior inclusive environment that supports mental wellbeing. workspace accounts for senior students, Classes, Christmas Play Open evening Doodle Learning App in Maths and English Our8open evening forParticipation new enrolments th Green giving every child a personalised work Environmental Education: Working towards our Flag, in takes place on Thursday, February 8th from 6-7 pm and we look forward to welcoming programme tailored to their strengths and Incredible Edibles (3 consecutive gold awards)parents run byand AgriAware children children toencouraging view our school and meet staff members. weaknesses Enrolment forms may be requested from the school (090to grow their own fruits and vegetables • The Arts/Music: Participation in BLAST (Bringing Live Arts to 6622200) or downloaded from our website (www.feevaghns.ie).

www.feevaghns.ie

Enrolment Evening

Feevagh Thursday 8th Feb. from 6:00-7:00 pm N.S., Dysart Come along and see our Enrolment Evening

Tuesday 14 Feb. from 6:00-7:00 pm wonderful, modern school. All Welcome!

What Can We Offer:

School Initiatives and Activities:

– Participation in the Amber Flag Programme creating a healthy, inclusive Students and Teachers), Creative Schools (run by theWellbeing Arts Council), trips to the Theatre, Tin-Whistle in Senior Classes, Christmas Playthat supports mental well-being environment

• Environmental Education: Working towards our 8th Green Flag, Participation in Incredible Edibles (3 consecutive gold awards) run by AgriAware encouraging children to grow their own fruits and vegetables • Wellbeing – Participation in the Amber Flag Programme creating a healthy, inclusive environment that supports mental well-being

Enrolment forms can be requested by email or downloaded from the school website www.feevaghns.ie or find us on Facebook

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

GivEnergy All-in-One System ADVERTORIAL

Storm Isha has reminded us just how vulnerable we are to power outages, especially in rural Ireland. Standard Solar Photovoltaic systems produce electricity during daylight hours and when paired with a battery allows for energy storage. This only happens while connected to a live grid connection. In the event of a power outage the system shuts down immediately and will not produce power or allow usage of energy from the battery until a live grid connection is restored again. The GivEnergy All-in-One system changes all of this. With the additional GivEnergy Gateway, the All-in-One can provide whole house back-up in the event of a power failure, keeping your lights, heating and broadband running seamlessly. The Giv-Gateway also facilitates a connection point for your solar PV system by allowing it to continue to generate energy even without a grid supply, therefore powering your home directly or adding power to the battery during this time. The Giv-Gateway provides seamless switching between grid and battery, ensuring that your property is always powered. The GivEnergy All-in-One is a one of a kind home battery and inverter – unrivalled for power and price point. The GivEnergy All-in-One AC coupled system has many advantages such as 6kW continuous peak power. With this, the

charge and discharge rate of these batteries helps better take advantage of lowest energy tariffs. Also, the system is complete with a substantial 13.5kWh useable battery pack and allows for 100% depth of discharge. Allowance for additional energy storage of up to 80kWh will be available in the coming months. With inbuilt isolator, CT clamp, metering, switchgear, and a gateway requiring no additional distribution board, there’s little to fit and minimal wiring. Above all else, the All-in-One unit has a fantastic premium look and a good deal of capacity – at a very affordable price.

Post Office should have become one-stop-shop for all Government services OPINION < DENIS NAUGHTEN

During my term as Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, I developed a strategy with An Post to protect it from financial collapse and to use the An Post-owned post offices, such as Roscommon Town, as a focal point for the development of banking services and other Government services. This would have resulted in an expansion of the range of services in the Roscommon Post Office as well as the use of additional space in the building for new State-supported services. This included designating Roscommon Post Office as a one-stop-shop for all Government services for those who did not wish to use online services, including motor tax, driving licences and passports. Roscommon Post Office was also to be expanded to develop a community banking service, to provide an alternative to the existing banks and to support the development of banking services in the smaller post offices throughout County Roscommon. Key to this was the retention of the ownership and control of the existing An Post post offices in 50 locations around the country, including Roscommon Town. Sadly, these plans were not fulfilled by Government,

and it now seems that An Post is set to relinquish direct control of such services, which is likely to undermine future plans for such services in Roscommon Town. In the intervening years I have strongly advocated for the delivery of new Government services through the post office network, but this has failed to materialise. Furthermore, as Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank withdrew from (some of) our towns, I strongly argued that Government needed to urgently revisit the establishment of a State bank for SMEs and personal customers, through An Post and the local Credit Union network, which had the infrastructure, facilities and visibility within our communities. Such a State bank could build on the two existing Government banks (Ireland Strategic Investment Fund and the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland) to offer low interest rates to support both businesses and communities. Furthermore, such a bank could also provide Green Finance to homeowners, landlords and businesses to invest in a sustainable future. Disappointingly, this type of support for An Post has not been forthcoming to date from Government which is at least in part resulting in the transition of the ownership of these iconic buildings and their services into private control. *Denis Naughten is a former Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, and currently an Independent TD in Roscommon-Galway constituency

Glinsk N.S.

Glinsk, Via Castlerea, Co. Galway Glinsk N.S. is currently accepting enrolments for 2024/2025 Glinsk N.S. is currently accepting

enrolmentsEVENING for 2024/2025 OPEN

Open Eof venFebruary in g on Tuesday 20th 2024 On Tuesday 20th of February 2024 between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. between 6.00 and 7.00 pm Parents are invited to come along with their child to view the school, its facilities and meet the teachers. Application forms will be available at the open evening.

Application forms and further information are also available to download from www.glinskns.ie or please email the school at glinskschool@gmail.com

Phone: 094 9655257 E-mail: glinskschool@gmail.com Website: www.glinskns.ie Twitter: @Glinsk_NS Closing date for applications: 15th March 2024

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

ST. ANNE’S National School

OPEN DAY

February 6th, 6–7pm Now open for Registration Join us to hear about the following: • Afterschool • Student Council • Ready Set Go Maths • Literacy Stations • Hot Food Menu • Aistear • Sports • Music • Heggerty/UFLI Programme ... and much more

CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON. TEL. (094) 962 0482 EMAIL: secretary@stannesns.com

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

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Roscommon’s 13% growth in new domain registrations The latest .ie Domain Profile Report 2023, launched last week, reveals that 48,689 new domains were registered up to 31st December 2023, a modest increase of 0.34% on the previous year.

Roscommon recorded a 13.01% growth in new .ie domain registrations compared to registration levels in 2022. A total of 417 .ie domains were registered in Roscommon in 2023. The new domains reg-

istered nationwide take the total .ie database to 328,245, representing a marginally small net reduction on 2022. Now in its ninth year, the Report is an annual exploration of the .ie da-

newsbriefs

Iarstáisiún na nGardaí agus Áras Cónaithe, Béal Átha Feorainne, Ros Comáin, H53 WV65

Fundraising concert at Coleman Music Centre

AR DÍOL TRÍ CHEANT BEOSHRUTHA, DÉ hAOINE, AN 23 FEABHRA 2024, AR 12 MEÁN LAE. Caithfidh tú clárú ar ár suíomh gréasáin roimh ré le go mbeidh tú in ann tairiscint a dhéanamh. • Réadmhaoin scoite dhá stór ar fáil ar shuíomh thart ar .26 acra. • Tá 5 sheomra leapa ann, 2 chistin, 3 sheomra suí, 4 stór, 2 theach lasmuigh, bealach isteach do choisithe agus d’fheithiclí agus cúlghairdín mór. • Suite i mbaile Bhéal Átha Feorainne le bealach isteach éasca go bailte Bhaile Átha Luain, Ros Comáin agus Bhéal Átha na Sluaighe. • Ar an teorainn idir Co. Ros Comáin agus Co. na Gaillimhe. • Tá siopaí, scoil, séipéal, ionad sláinte, club CLG agus ionad pobail ann. • Díolmhaithe ó dhleacht stampála;

BREATHNÚ OSCAILTE AR AN SATHARN 10.00 – 10.45 AM Íosluach Molta: €60,000 Rátáil Fuinnimh an Fhoirgnimh: G / 173.40 méadar cearnach (1,866 troigh chearnach) TÉIGH I dTEAGMHÁIL LE: Siobhra Hennessy: (091) 564 212

Former Garda Station and Residence, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon, H53 WV65 FOR SALE BY LIVE STREAM AUCTION, FRIDAY 23rd FEBRUARY 2024 at 12 NOON. You must pre-register on our website in order to bid. • Vacant detached two-storey property on a site of .26 acres approximately. • Comprises 5 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, 3 reception rooms, 4 stores, 2 outbuildings, pedestrian and vehicular access and large rear garden. • Located in Ballyforan village with easy access to Athlone, Roscommon and Ballinasloe towns. • On the border between Co. Roscommon and Co. Galway • Local amenities include shops, school, church, health centre, GAA club and a community centre. • Exempt from Stamp Duty.

OPEN VIEWINGS SATURDAYS 10.00 – 10.45 AM (AMV): €60,000 (BER): G/ 173.40 sq.m. (1,866 sq. feet) CONTACT: Siobhra Hennessy 091 564 212

Learn to drive with

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL

TELEPHONE: 087 2295551

tabase and is published by .ie, the national registry for .ie domain names. It analyses the entire database, sectors domains are operating in, and counties and countries they are registered in.

Congratulation to Kathleen Hughes (Strokestown) who recently celebrated her 90th birthday. Kathleen is pictured with her brother John Doorley and sister, Maureen Fallon.

The Coleman Music Centre will host their annual fundraising concert on Saturday, February 3rd at 8 pm. A super line-up of musicians, dancers and singers will be performing on the night, including Ceoltoiri Coleman, Fr James McDonagh, Brian Mostyn, Daithi Gormley, Seamus O’Donnell, Nora O’Connor and many more. Tickets are now on sale for this great event. Call 071 9182599 or visit our website, www. colemanirishmusic.com.

Latest date for receipt of County Fleadh entries Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin 2024 will be held in Ail Finn/Elphin over the Easter Weekend, with the competitions taking place on the Monday. Details of venues and other activities

will be available to see in local newspaper advertisements at a later date. Entries should reach your local Comhaltas branch rúnaí/secretary not later than 15th of Febru-

ary 2024. Updated entry forms will be available to download from Facebook page comhaltas bhaile ros comain, in the very near future. Entries may be sent to

Peadar Brandon, Cloverhill (090 66 25382) or to Bill Cunningham, 1 Cloonbrackna Avenue (086 3345 817). As usual, late entries will not be accepted.

THE BRIDGE CLUB The most recent results from the local bridge clubs are as follows: Roscommon Bridge Club – 1st: Valere and Pat Finneran; 2nd: Mary and Pearse Mellett; Gross: Mary and Terry O’Keeffe. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club – 1st: Chris and John McGrath; 2nd: Mary and Terry O’Keeffe; Gross: Tresina Murphy and Larry Shine. Ballymurray Bridge Club – (North/South) 1st: Mary Raftery and Fred Kelly-Henry; 2nd: Jill Farrell and Pat Lyons; Gross: Maria Hickey and Rita Roughneen. (East/West) 1st: Gertie Spillane and Josephine Devaney; 2nd: George Bannon and John O’Gara; Gross: Valere and Pat Finneran. Kilbride Bridge Club – 1st: Pauline Leonard and Margaret Mullen; 2nd: Jane Hunt and Frances Keane; 3rd: Ann Igoe and Gertie McDermott.

Roscommon supporter Mary Grehan pictured at the recent Connacht FBD League final between Roscommon and Galway in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

The landmark ETL business overlooking Main Street and The Square, Roscommon town.

End of an era as Michael and Rita call time on ‘long and happy chapter’ EIGHT ‘TIL LATE WAS EMBRACED BY PUBLIC FROM THE BEGINNING < PAUL HEALY

The end of an era is imminent in Roscommon Town with the news that landmark business ETL (formerly Eight ‘Til Late) is to close early next month. The iconic building overlooking Main Street and The Square – familiar to generations of Roscommon families over the past 40 years – will now enter a new chapter in its existence. Michael and Rita Oates, the extremely popular proprietors of ETL, said they were announcing their plans to close the business “with heavy hearts” but are now looking forward to the next chapter in their lives. They have thanked their loyal customers and staff for all their support over the past 40 years. The couple said it had been a difficult decision to call time on what has been a “very long and happy chapter” in their lives. Michael and Rita opened Eight ‘Til Late on the 29th of February 1984, in a beautiful building which had housed

the Bank of Ireland. The doors will close on Saturday, 2nd of March next, bringing an end to 40 years of trading there. Over those decades, Eight ‘Til Late (now ETL) has played a huge part in the commercial and social life of the county town. A prestigious national award won in the early days was one of many accolades which would be bestowed on the business over the years. The store was embraced by the Roscommon public from the beginning, and went on to become a popular hub in the town, a premises with which thousands of people developed a special affinity over the decades. Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Rita Oates reflected: “We couldn’t have been luckier. We set up Eight ‘Til Late in this fabulous building in 1984 and we felt part of the community from the beginning”. Eight ‘Til Late quickly became a popular hub in the town, with people calling in for their daily and weekly newspapers, gifts, cards and lotto tickets – not to mention

Rita and Michael Oates.

the long, good-humoured queues for concert tickets! The shop also branched into developing photographs and providing a professional framing service. As time passed, Eight ‘Til Late diversified further, stocking toys, CDs, books, then arts and crafts, including Rita’s own beautiful artwork, created in her studio in Roscommon. Just last year, Rita opened

the Anam Gallery at the back of the store, reflecting her passion for art. Indeed Rita will continue to work as an artist. Reflecting on the various phases over the years, Rita said: “We had to keep reinventing ourselves, which is what being self-employed can be all about. But that’s what makes you grow as a business, that’s what’s exciting”.

The couple found the interaction with the public to be a very fulfilling part of their journey. “We got to know our customers so well… what newspapers they read, what books they liked. We loved the fact that they stayed and chatted when they called in. You’d see people coming in just to chat with Michael about the matches, that type

of thing. Now, since we made the announcement, people have been popping in and chatting and reliving memories with us”. For 20 years or so, Eight ‘Til Late was also their family home. Rita: “We are so grateful to have had this wonderful property in the centre of town as our home for 20 years. It was an amazing place to live. This town gave us such a wonderful space, where our kids had access to schools and the GAA and so many other amenities. It gave us a safe place and we will always cherish that”. Most of all, Rita says it was people who made Eight ‘Til Late/ETL the special place it became. “Michael and I really want to say how grateful we are to our customers and staff. People were so loyal. It is the public who made this experience so so special. We can’t thank people enough for their support”. They have been deeply touched by the outpouring of affection and warmth from people since their announcement. It’s the public’s way of saying thank you back to Michael, Rita and family. Eight ‘Til Late has been in the heart of Roscommon Town for 40 years – and it has also been in the hearts of the people.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

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Shock at An Post from landmark < PAUL HEALY

he public in Roscommon Town is reeling from the shock news that the landmark Roscommon Post Office building at The Square is set to close over the coming months, with the service to continue under a new postmaster in a new location. News of An Post’s plans to switch to a ‘contractor-run post office’ model stunned the local community when it broke last Friday. Staff had been informed the previous day. Roscommon Post Office has operated from a historic building in the town centre for decades. It is now set to vacate that landmark premises in the coming months. Outlining details of the changes, An Post said that Roscommon Post Office will shortly become a

Decision ‘hit Roscommon like bolt of lightning’ Following news of the proposed An Post changes in Roscommon Town, Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott spoke of the shock felt in the community. “This decision by An Post has hit Roscommon like a bolt of lightning. Ever since the news broke, I have been contacted by concerned members of the public who are angry, distressed and disappointed by what is proposed”. Cllr McDermott said that the area has already suffered some major setbacks in recent years, citing as examples the closure of both the A&E Unit at Roscommon Hospital and the Cuisle Holiday Centre in Donamon. “It is simply unacceptable that An Post would propose to withdraw the existing service from its current prime location in the county town. “There is no logic to changing something that is working so well. If you ask me, this looks like some young whizzkid who has no knowledge of the important role of Roscommon Post Office in our county town has made this decision. “The Roscommon Post Office building is a historic building, and a landmark one. The premises is a social hub in addition to the actual services it provides”. Calling on the relevant Minister and An Post to respond to the public’s concern, Cllr McDermott said that it is absolutely essential that this proposal is reviewed with immediate effect.

Waldron says An Post needs ‘A New Vision’ Councillor Anthony Waldron has called on An Post to pursue a ‘new vision’, and suggests that revisiting a report commissioned by the company’s unions – which was actually called ‘A New Vision’ – would be a good starting point. Of the weekend announcement, Cllr Waldron said: “This is not progress in any shape or form. The local post office has for many years been the lifeblood of many towns and villages in rural Ireland. Aside from the vital services it delivers, our post office is also a meeting point and seen by many as the heart and soul of the community. “The postmaster knew everyone, and the post office

was a place where people connected to converse and share in local events. During the past number of years, and particularly since Covid hit, we have seen the closure of all too many. Villages that once had a daily buzz around the post office are silent, doors locked, the building a ghostly shell. We cannot allow this to happen in Roscommon Town”. Cllr Waldron added: “In the document ‘An Post – A New Vision’ by Paddy Walley – a report commissioned by the An Post Group of Unions – the author states: ‘The sense of community, of social bonding and belonging, which An Post represents for individuals and communities, is a very important part of the fabric

of Irish society and also of the commercial value of An Post. An Post is not just another commercial entity, it is an important part of the social capital of the country which has been built over many years. Its commercial value incorporates important social objectives which should be integrated into any model of its development for the future…’”. Urging An Post to have a rethink on its position, Waldron concluded: “After all, the very fabric of our society is built upon the post office – lest we forget the pivotal role of the GPO in O’Connell Street in the formation of our Republic”.

Local politicians held a meeting in Gleeson’s of Roscommon on Monday evening in order to urgently discuss the changes proposed by An Post regarding its services in Roscommon Town. Pictured are (back row, left to right): Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr Laurence Fallon, Cllr Michael Mulligan, Senator Aisling Dolan, Senator Eugene Murphy, Cllr Nigel Dineen, Cllr John Naughten and Cllr Marty McDermott. Front row, left to right: Cllr Kathleen Shanagher, Cllr Emer Kelly, Cllr John Keogh (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council), Deputy Claire Kerrane, Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Tony Ward (Chairperson, Roscommon Municipal District, who chaired the meeting) and Cllr Tony Ward. *Missing from photo but present at meeting was Deputy Denis Naughten.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

plan to move services building at The Square contractor-run post office. A spokesperson said it was likely that a new location for the services would be sought by the new postmaster once the tender process has been completed. The company said the Roscommon Town branch will “join 95 per cent of the country’s 900-plus post offices” in this new business model. An Post has described this development as a significant business opportunity for prospective postmasters locally. It is understood that existing staff will be given the option of applying for employment with the new postmaster, or being deployed elsewhere in the post office network. The tender for the new contract will be advertised soon, after which a new postmaster will be appointed. The changes are expected to be completed over the next three months or so. Speaking on the Joe Finnegan Show on Shannonside Northern Sound on Monday, An Post Public

Affairs Manager Angus Laverty confirmed that the current Roscommon Post Office building at The Square is likely to be sold in the near future. Local TD and former Communications Minister Denis Naughten has expressed his disappointment at the “potential closure” of the post office on The Square in Roscommon Town, following the decision by An Post to tender the services to a contractor. “While this will come as a blow to the dedicated staff in the post office, there is also the risk that the new contractor will no longer use the existing building which could see the service moved elsewhere in the town,” stated Deputy Naughten. “While I have been reassured by An Post that there is no threat to the existing services provided, the loss of a State-owned service in the town will, I believe, impede the potential expansion of services in the longerterm”.

Roscommon Post Office at The Square in Roscommon Town. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Role: ROSCOMMON TOWN OFFICE

Client Care Co-Ordinator

Requirements include: • Have a proven ability to operate in a pressurised environment and think on your feet • Coordinating schedules on a daily basis • Covering shifts for Annual leave, sick leave and training days • Setting up new client’s schedules and matching clients with CAREGivers • Building great relationships with our clients and CAREGivers • Have outstanding communication skills and are committed to customer service

Education/Experience Requirements: • Social Care Qualification preferred • Have at least 1 years’ experience in a similar role within the home care sector or any related experience • Have exceptional organisational and multi-tasking skills • Must possess a valid driver’s licence

Salary Negotiable Type: Full-time Salary: €25,000.00-€30,000.00 per year

To apply, email bridget.mcgrath@homeinstead.ie

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

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Taoiseach leads tributes to John Connor, giant of Roscommon politics < PAUL HEALY

News of the death of one of Roscommon’s most prominent politicians of the past half century was met with shock and sadness over recent days. Former Fine Gael TD, senator and county councillor John Connor died following a single-vehicle road traffic accident in his native Frenchpark on Saturday. He was aged 79. One of the most prominent political figures in the county since the early-1980s, the late John Connor was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1981, and went on to gain re-election in two subsequent elections. He also had a distinguished career at senate and county council level. A noted orator who was highly respected across the political divide, John Connor was this week described by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar as a politician with a “keen intellect” who had “an unwavering commitment to the people of his area and brought a considerable expertise to politics at local and national level”. The Taoiseach’s tribute was one of many that have been paid to the late John Connor since news of his sad passing. A native of Cloonshanville, Frenchpark, he was the sole occupant of a vehicle which crashed on a local road in the Frenchpark area on Saturday. Shortly before 2 pm Gardaí and emergency services responded to the collision. Mr Connor was taken by ambulance to Sligo Uni-

versity Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. John Connor was first elected to Dáil Éireann in the 1981 General Election as a Fine Gael TD for the Roscommon-East Galway constituency. While he lost his seat in 1982, he was re-elected in 1989 and again in 1992 (on the latter occasion in Roscommon-Longford). Mr Connor became a senator in 1983 after being nominated by Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald, serving on the Agriculture Panel. He continued as a senator until 1989, when he regained a Dáil seat for Roscommon-East Galway in that year’s General Election. He was re-elected to the Dáil in Longford-Roscommon constituency in 1992, and was appointed Opposition Spokesperson on European Affairs. He lost his seat in the 1997 General Election (in the same constituency). Later in 1997 he was successful in the Seanad election, going on to serve there until 2002. In 1999, John Connor had been elected to Roscommon County Council. He was re-elected to the Council in 2004, going on to serve as Mayor. He retired from public life in 2009. The late Mr Connor is mourned by his sisters Margaret (Cady) and Anne (Gallagher), extended family, political colleagues, neighbours and many friends. The late John Connor reposed at The Sharkey Funeral Home, Frenchpark on Wednesday. Removal to St Asicus’ Church, Frenchpark today (Thursday) for Mass of the Resurrection at 11.30 am was followed by

interment in Cloonshanville cemetery. May he rest in peace.

Taoiseach’s tribute Taoiseach and Leader of Fine Gael Leo Varadkar led tributes to former Fine Gael TD and Senator John Connor following his death last weekend. “I am deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of former Fine Gael TD and Senator John Connor” the Taoiseach said. “John represented the Roscommon area for Fine Gael for over three decades, as a TD, senator and councillor. “John had an unwavering commitment to the people of his area and brought a considerable expertise to politics at local and national level. He had a keen intellect and was well versed in international affairs, but always had his finger on the pulse of local matters. “He was very popular among his colleagues in Fine Gael and I know provided good counsel to a number of younger public representatives, who were grateful for his advice and time”. Deputy Varadkar extended his deepest sympathies to John’s family, as well as the many friends he made throughout his life, concluding his statement with “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis”.

Former Fine Gael TD, senator and county councillor John Connor

Tributes pour in from political colleagues “He was a UN Observer and I recall him telling me about his experience of being in Soweta for the first democratic elections in South Africa, in 1994”. Mr Beirne described John Connor as a wonderful public speaker who never used speaking notes because he felt that would distract from his train of thought. “He was a hard worker on behalf of his constituents. His political heroes were Michael Collins and Garret FitzGerald. “While John was an uncompromising Fine Gaeler he enjoyed banter with people. He had a great turn of phrase and anything he said (during banter) was always said in a generous way”.

Senator Aisling Dolan Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said that her thoughts are with John Connor’s family and friends at this very sad time, and with the many Oireachtas colleagues and councillors who knew him so well. Senator Dolan said that John Connor’s life was one of immense public service for the people of Roscommon and Galway and at a national level too. “John Connor was an intellectual of huge depth and conviction. As a politician, he combined passionate interest in international affairs with an enormous commitment to providing diligent local representation. “I am grateful for the wisdom and advice that John shared with me since I became a Fine Gael Oireachtas representative for Roscommon-Galway. As recently as last week, when I spoke with him by phone, he was offering good advice and thinking of others. “John Connor was focused on Roscommon, Fine Gael, his friends and neighbours, and most of all on vulnerable people at home and abroad, who benefited greatly from his abilities and dedication. May he rest in peace”.

Deputy Denis Naughten Independent TD Denis Naughten said he was “both shocked and saddened” to learn of the tragic death of his “former colleague”. “John was someone who

Deputy Claire Kerrane

Flashback to the 1980s: Pictured at a Fine Gael event were (back row, left to right) Frank Curley, Sean Naughton, Dympna Regan and Tom Callan. Front row, left to right: Liam Naughten, Paddy Cooney and John Connor.

cared passionately for rural Ireland and had an in-depth knowledge of farming and agriculture, which was reflected in his many valued contributions as a TD, senator and councillor. “But John also had a deep understanding of international affairs. I was always amazed when, on the odd occasion an international topic came up at a meeting in the back room of a rural pub, how he could explain the issue in such detail and relate it back to the issues and challenges facing that particular rural parish.

“John was one of the great political orators of his generation and was proud to carry on the tradition of his neighbour James Dillon. John could also, on occasion, eviscerate the political opposition with his contribution. “John gave nearly 30 years of service to public representation and developed a large network of friends throughout the country who, along with his sisters, their families, and his neighbours, will miss him dearly. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam”.

Sean Beirne Former Fine Gael councillor Sean Beirne has expressed his condolences to the relatives and friends of John Connor on the occasion of his sad passing. Mr Beirne, a long-time political colleague and friend of John Connor’s, said he was shocked by the news. Speaking to the Roscommon People on Tuesday, Sean spoke of John Connor being “an inveterate traveller” who had an “encyclopedic knowledge” of the numerous countries he visited.

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane said: “I want to express my deepest sympathies to John’s family, colleagues and many friends. I know John enjoyed a long political life and I know that long after he left electoral politics, he remained as interested as ever in politics. “He’ll be long remembered here locally for the huge part of his life he gave to politics locally and nationally. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis. May his gentle soul rest in peace”.

Senator Eugene Murphy

Senator Eugene Murphy said he was very saddened to learn of the death of John Connor. Describing John as hugely intelligent, a great orator and good company, Senator Murphy said he had represented his county with dignity and enthusiasm.

“I served for a time when John was a member of Roscommon County Council and there is no doubt he could debate matters with enthusiasm and knowledge. “I was truly sorry to hear of his passing and I extend my sympathies to John’s relations and friends”.

Cllr Tom Crosby Independent councillor Tom Crosby said that it was with great sadness that he had learned that his “close friend and former colleague on Roscommon County Council” had passed away. “John was a most honourable and passionate public representative serving in the Dáil, Seanad and as a member and former Chairperson of Roscommon County Council” Cllr Crosby said. Recalling his own close working relationship with the late John Connor on Roscommon County Council, Cllr Crosby said that “John’s word was his bond”. “I had great experience of this over the years working with John who was the Fine Gael members’ representative which also involved him negotiating the establishment of the County Council after the elections. When we shook hands on an agreement for both of the five-year terms the agreements were honoured 100% by John”. Noting he had enjoyed a social night out with John just last Christmas, Cllr Crosby extended his sympathies to the family of the late John Connor.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

A political colossus who was a courageous voice for social change < PAUL HICKEY

John Connor represented Roscommon as TD and Senator from 1981-2002 and was Mayor of Roscommon in 2004-5. For the Roscommon public, he was a Fine Gael standardbearer for a generation, and a tenacious political representative at a time of high unemployment and emigration. To his political colleagues, John Connor was untypical: he combined close attention to constituency matters with an exceptional appetite for international politics. He was a member of the Council of Europe while he was a TD, and he volunteered in Africa for the United Nations. For the hundreds of Connor supporters who campaigned loyally with him for two decades, John Connor was a political colossus. At a time of great political heat in Ireland – the eras of Fitzgerald v Haughey and Reynolds, Bruton and Spring – John Connor gave definition to the political views of his supporters, by what he stood for; and what he stood against. He favoured social change before that was fashionable in rural Ireland. And he railed against cynicism in Irish public life. As a young man, John Connor worked as a Rate Collector, beginning a lifetime of knowing

every Roscommon by-road and family connection. Active in Macra na Feirme in his 20s, John was 33 in 1977 when Garret FitzGerald became leader of Fine Gael. Attracted to FitzGerald’s liberal agenda, Connor emerged as a Fine Gael candidate for the 1981 General Election. He was elected and FitzGerald became Taoiseach. The young TD was still finding his political feet when an election occurred suddenly in spring 1982. This was unfortunate timing for Connor who lost, despite increasing his vote to 6,897 from the 4,717 polled eight months previously. His Fine Gael colleague Liam Naughten won the seat in 1982, the second of six general elections in which he and Connor headlined the Fine Gael ticket in Roscommon; with John Connor winning the seat on three occasions (1981; 1989; 1992) and Liam Naughten winning three times also (1982; 1982; 1987). Six elections in 11 years, against the backdrop of bleak economic problems, must have been physically, emotionally and financially exhausting for the politicians. Connor, Naughten, Seán Doherty (FF), Terry Leyden (FF) and Tom Foxe (Ind) were the main contenders. All five served as TDs, and each man experienced defeat. Most agonising of all was

The late John Connor was a renowned orator. He is pictured in familiar pose, speaking on the occasion of a retirement function held in his honour in the Abbeyfield Hotel in Ballaghaderreen in April of 2010.

John Connor’s defeat in 1987 after three dramatic recounts, one of which declared him as victor; another declaring him as having lost by one vote. He bounced back to top the poll in the 1989 election. He was a persistent campaigner. He and his friend Cllr Charlie Hopkins were faithful advocates for Arigna mining families. He

and trusted allies Cllr Tom Callaghan and Cllr Michael Creaton worked to improve local mental health services. He spoke up for western farmers. He had eclectic interests – one summer holiday spent travelling through remote parts of the Soviet Union; another in the Public Records Office in London, studying old colonial reports on

Roscommon. He loved cattle farming. He leaves a significant political legacy. As Government TD from 1994-97 for the county, he delivered Castlerea Prison, Ballaghaderreen’s Dillon House (headquarters of the Western Development Commission) and the General Register Office (Roscommon Town). At the

official opening of the Ballaghaderreen bypass in 2014, then Taoiseach Enda Kenny described John Connor as “a key architect” of the N5’s modernisation. Most of all though – of all of Roscommon’s politicians of his era – he was a courageous voice for social change. He was among the first in the Dáil to discuss marriage breakdown, laying the ground for a successful divorce referendum. In the early 1980s he advocated for a pluralist solution to the Northern Ireland problem, at a time when anything other than flag-waving was unpopular in Ireland; the Good Friday Agreement was signed 15 years later. He emerged from political retirement in 2015 to campaign alongside Deputy Frank Feighan and former Senator Maura Hopkins for marriage equality. John Connor was hardworking and enormously loyal – he never flinched from his friends, from unpopularity or from anyone whom he felt deserved his support. He made a lasting impact on Roscommon. And he was one of the builders of our modern Republic. *Paul Hickey is a native of Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon and a keen political observer

Feighan pays tribute Callaghan on ‘mentor and ally’ to ‘man of integrity’ Deputy Frank Feighan said that he was deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden death of his former colleague John Connor. “John was the standard-bearer for Fine Gael in North and Mid Roscommon from 1981 to 2002 representing his people in both Seanad and Dáil Eireann. “John went on to represent his local community as a member of the local authority until 2009. “He led the Fine Gael group of councillors for many years succeeding himself to be elected Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co Council, an appointment he was most proud of”. Deputy Feighan said that he was honoured to ‘take up the baton’ from John in the Oireachtas when he was elected to the Seanad in 2002. “During the years following I was privileged to have his support and advice on many occasions, especially during the Dáil elections of 2007, 2011 and 2020.

“John was a proud Roscommon man and fought hard to build the infrastructure of the county – especially in the north of the county – while always representing the ordinary people who for different reasons required his assistance and advice in ensuring they had access to the supports of the State that they were entitled to. “He had broad interests including history and foreign affairs, and he volunteered for the United Nations often as an observer in elections in countries who had little experience of democracy. “He was an exceptional public speaker and loved to debate politics and history with the opposition of the day and indeed colleagues, where he demonstrated his brilliant depth of knowledge, vocabulary and command of the English language. “In essence John was a man of integrity with a kind heart and wonderful interest and appetite for life. He will be missed by so many in-

cluding his neighbours, Fine Gael friends and public representatives – former and present – but especially by his family. May he rest in peace”.

Hogan’s tribute

Former EU Commissioner and prominent ex-Fine Gael Minister Phil Hogan has paid tribute to the late John Connor. Mr Hogan told the Roscommon People: “I served with John Connor in Seanad Eireann. I was always amazed at his great knowledge of international politics and how widely he travelled around Europe and Asia. “He had a great intellect and sarcastic wit which often put his political opponents on the wrong foot. His political battles in Roscommon were legendary and full of great incidents. “John was an excellent parliamentarian and he will be fondly remembered”.

Fine Gael councillor Liam Callaghan said he was shocked to learn of the death of a close family friend, mentor and political ally. He recalled John Connor canvassing for his father Tom in 1979. “He was a proud Frenchpark man who represented this area and the constituency of Roscommon-East Galway (later Roscommon-Longford) with distinction as a TD, senator, a county councillor, and indeed as Chairperson of Roscommon County Council. He had a great intellect and was an inspiring public speaker”. Cllr Callaghan noted that the late John Connor was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1981 and went on to fight four general elections in six years. “He tasted victory and defeat in that time but was resilient and loyal to his party and his beliefs. He was a conviction politician who worked assiduously on behalf of his constituents. “It was John who secured funding for the Breedogue/Lung Drainage Scheme which saw over 15 years of work by the OPW to the benefit of the area. He was instrumental in the County Graveyard Scheme and secured funding to upgrade all graveyards in the county. “He was passionate about rural issues but also had a keen interest in Europe and at one stage was appointed Fine Gael Spokesperson on European Affairs – and when he retired he continued his involvement in in-

Cllr Liam Callaghan (left) and the late former Fine Gael politician John Connor. “He was instrumental in the County Graveyard Scheme and secured funding to upgrade all graveyards in the county” Cllr Callaghan says of a great family friend and adviser.

ternational affairs as a UN Observer”. Cllr Callaghan said that John Connor was many things to many people and his sad passing brings an end to an era of over 40 years of distinguished public service to the people of Roscommon and beyond. “I am honoured to have known him and to have been his friend and I will miss his support and wise counsel”.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

‘Evening of musical enchantment’ in Strokestown Park for Brigid’s Awakening Festival 2024 Strokestown Park is delighted to announce a captivating evening of musical enchantment as part of the Brigid’s Awakening Festival 2024. On Sunday, 4th of February 2024, renowned Irish singer Cathy Jordan, hailing from Scramogue, Co. Roscommon, will take the stage alongside noted pianist and composer Feargal Murray to perform ‘Storybook – The Songs of Brendan Graham’. This not-to-be-missed event will unfold within the captivating surroundings of Strokestown Park, with doors opening at 6.30 pm to usher in a night of unforgettable musical experiences. Brendan Graham, the prolific Mayobased songwriter behind iconic tunes such as ‘You Raise Me Up,’ ‘Rock ‘n

Roll Kids,’ and ‘The Voice,’ boasts an impressive repertoire. His compositions have resonated with audiences globally, adorning events ranging from the Olympic Games to the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Cathy Jordan, celebrated for her soulful and captivating voice, will be joined by pianist and composer Feargal Murray by special guest Alan Kelly. Their musical partnership with Brendan Graham spans over three decades, reflecting a harmonious synergy that has endured the test of time. This exceptional concert is a part of the Brigid’s Awakening Festival, commemorating the first national holiday dedicated to St Brigid, Ireland’s only female patron saint. The festival will feature a

series of events throughout the weekend, including the installation and illumination of what is believed to be Ireland’s largest St Brigid’s Cross at Tarmonbarry Bridge. Secure your tickets now for an evening filled with musical brilliance and celebration at strokestownpark.ie/events or at the reception. Events in Tarmonbarry and Tulsk Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry extends a warm invitation to female traditional musicians to join ‘The Bridies’ for a music session on Friday, February 2nd, starting at 8.30 pm. Additionally, Rathcroghan Visitor Centre in Tulsk will host a two-lecture semi-

nar reflecting on aspects of women in history on Saturday, February 3rd, commencing at 11.30 am. More information available at rathcroghan.ie. About the Festival The Brigid’s Awakening Festival, generously supported by Roscommon County Council and the Creative Ireland Programme, encourages the community to immerse themselves in the timeless magic of Brendan Graham’s compositions. The Creative Ireland Programme, an all-of-Government initiative from 2023 to 2027, places a strong emphasis on placing creativity at the heart of public policy.

Cathy Jordan

Photography exhibition ‘Unusual Gestures’opens at Roscommon Arts Centre County Galway artist Lorraine Tuck’s newlycommissioned work ‘Unusual Gestures’ opens at Roscommon Arts Centre on this Friday, 2nd of February. This intensely moving and emotionally powerful photographic exhibition tells the story of a family living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability and is curated and produced by Photo Museum Ireland. Tuck is the mother of four children (two boys and two girls). The boys have autism spectrum disorder, which in the case of the youngest, is coupled with severe intellectual disability. Unusual Gestures provides insights into the farreaching implications that neurodiversity and disability present for families. It explores the impacts – some subtle, some fundamental – on parental and sibling relationships, and charts the challenges and joys of everyday family life.

See The Swing Cats at Backstage in Longford Join Ireland’s ‘King Of Swing’ Luke Thomas and his band The Swing Cats as their ‘Kings of Swing’ tour comes to the Backstage Theatre in Longford this Friday evening – as seen on The Late Late Show, Ireland AM, The Today Show, The Six O’Clock Show and heard on every major radio station in the country! The best in the business are back with a brand new show celebrating 100 years of swing music with a musical timeline of swing classics from the 1920s to the modern day! Featuring all your favourite swing and ‘Big Band’ songs like ‘Sing Sing Sing’, ‘Puttin’

On The Ritz’, ‘Mack The Knife’ to crooning classics like ‘Mr Bojangles’, ‘Fly Me To The Moon’, ‘New York’ (plus many more), this is a great show performed by Luke Thomas & The Swing Cats. In light of two #1 albums, three TV concert specials and seven personally requested performances for President Higgins, you can’t afford to miss this show. Tickets for The Swing Cats at Backstage Theatre, Longford on this Friday, 2nd of February (at 8 pm) are available on 043 3347888 or via backstage.ie.

The exhibition succeeds in capturing how everyone, neurotypical as well as neurodiverse, forms the centre of their own separate and singular world, while at the same time it celebrates how we are all inescapably interconnected to the human family tree. A further series of works in the exhibition focuses on the artist’s uncle Owen. Born in 1972 in Connemara, Owen has Down Syndrome and is gender fluid. At times, Owen chooses to live as a woman called ‘Pink’. Owen/Pink has collaborated with Tuck to produce a series of portraits exploring their fluid gender identity with joyful and refreshing honesty. At its heart, this exhibition is about love more than autism or disability. Unusual Gestures runs at Roscommon Arts Centre until March 29. All are welcome to attend the opening this Friday, February 2nd, at 6 pm.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

GOING OUT

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

Members of the Solstice Choir committee pictured at the choir’s 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance which took place in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Ian Quain and Ciana Kelly pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Frank and Frances Brennan pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Anthony and Bridie Gaughan and Michael and Shirley Donoghue pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Chris and Mary Keane from Lecarrow pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Dan and Anna Dooner pictured with Jenny and Jimmy D’Arcy at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe and Kristen Kelly pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Mary Egan, Ita Kelly and Marie Gillooly pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Bernie Condron, Marna Regan, Carol Kelly and Margaret Treacy pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

PropertyPeople

Highest number of new homes in Roscommon since 2011 All key indicators trending upwards – Minister O’Brien The number of new homes delivered in County Roscommon last year was the highest annual total since the CSO data series began in 2011.

Figures released by the CSO show that in total, 198 new homes were built in Roscommon in 2023. This represents an increase of 11.8% compared to 2022, when 177 units were delivered. The upward trend in Roscommon is reflected nationally with the number of new homes delivered last year the highest since

2008, with 32,695 new homes completed in 2023, 10% higher than in 2022 and exceeding Housing for All’s 2023 target of 29,000 by almost 13%. The pipeline is also strong with 32,800 new homes commencing construction in 2023, and permission granted for over 37,600 homes across the country.

Commenting on the figures, the Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government, Darragh O’Brien, said: “The Government wants everyone to have a secure home and to have the opportunity to become a homeowner. So, we are now really stepping up home building each year, with a pipeline of well-built private, social,

affordable and cost rental homes. We can see it on the ground, with new homes and apartments being built in Roscommon and throughout the country. “All the key housing indicators – commencements, completions and planning permissions – are trending upwards, which bodes well for future supply”.

Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government, Darragh O’Brien

Modern five-bedroomed home in Mount Talbot on market with REA Seamus Carthy On the market with REA Seamus Carthy is this modern five-bedroomed family home, built c. 2003, set on a generous 0.71 acre site at Cloonlaughnan, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon. This propery is located in what is considered a highly desirable and convenient rural setting, offering ease of access to the large towns of Athlone, Roscommon, Ballinasloe and indeed Galway city. Presented in excellent condition, the said property comprises of attractive entrance hallway with living room, sitting/dining room, kitchen, utility, WC, family bathroom, two double bedrooms and an ensuite playroom/bedroom at ground floor. First floor level is concrete hollowcore and there are two further children’s bedrooms there, a family bathroom and a large master bedroom attractively laid out with walk-in wardrobe and ensuite shower-room. Externally, this most select property elegantly sits back on a prime site with driveway to front sweeping to left and right of the house, flanked by attractive lawn areas. To the rear, south facing rear garden with attractive outdoor space gets sunlight all day, including in the evening. This is considered an excellent opportunity to acquire an attractive modern family home. Immediate enquiries advised. Guide price: €375,000. BER rating: C1. Viewing is highly recommended. For more information, contact REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town today on info@reacarthy.ie.

Kiltoom lands sell at auction

Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton

Connaughton Auctioneers report that they sold c. 14.55 acres of land at Ardmullan, Kiltoom by online auction last week (January 25th) on the LSL Platform. The lands comprised c. 14.55 acres in one lot with pen/crush and mains water connection. The bidding opened at €140,000 and went up in bids of €5,000 to €220,000 when the lands were put on the open market. Eight further bids of €2,000 were received before the hammer fell at €236,000. Also sold on the day were 1.67 acres of boglands at Castlesampson, Athlone for €2,500 under the hammer. Ivan Connaughton Auctioneer stated “We were delighted to achieve over €16,000 per acre for the lands, the

highest price achieved in the region over the last 10 years. Demand for all qualities and quantities of lands is very high and this is set to continue for 2024. “The Online Auction platform is transparent and ensures maximum privacy for underbidders, unlike auction rooms in the past. We look forward to offering the majority of lands we list for sale this year via online auctions. “As the experts in online auctions for lands and farms in the region, we are available for free consultation and valuation of lands for anyone thinking of selling and wanting to achieve the maximum price available”. Contact Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700 or Ivan on 0868985013.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

PropertyPeople FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY Due to Retirement and offering Vacant Possession

ICONIC LANDMARK COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

Known as ETL, Main Street, Roscommon Town. F42 Y889 •

Highly Important Sale offering a Once in a Lifetime Opportunity.

•

Renowned & Successful Business Trading Location

•

Highly Distinctive Period Property with many fine features -Three Storey to front, Two Storey to Rear, spacious yard area, all set on a prominent corner site with Private Entrance leading off The Square to Public Car Park at rear.

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Dual Frontage onto Main Street and The Square.

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Vehicular Access to rear direct onto Public Car Park

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c. 0.18 acre Site Area

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c. 845 sq.m Floor Area

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Oozing Potential with Quality Buildings to Rear offering flexible layouts and potential sub division into multiple uses

ENQUIRIES INVITED Joint Selling Agents

Tel. 071 966 2125 PRSA no. 002058

Tel. 090 66 30001 PRSA no. 002782

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

PropertyPeople

Cormac 086 3519492

PSRA Licence No. 004420

WANTED WANTED

HOUSES, BUNGALOWS AND TWO STOREY RESIDENCES IN ROSCOMMON TOWN, STROKESTOWN & LANESBORO AREAS

FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY

14 SLIABH BAN VIEW, THE WALK, ROSCOMMON F42 FW99 5 B/R DETACHED RESIDENCE

Sale Agreed

Cathal 086 1409158

Keith 086 0848590

FOR LEASE 60 ACRES (approx) OF ROADSIDE LANDS

LISGREAGHAN, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON, CO. ROSCOMMON TERM 6 YEARS 7 Bay slatted shed with a layback and cattle crush. Water and ESB on lands

For cash clients and disppointed under bidders CONTACT KEITH

086 0848590

Contact Cathal 086 1409158

Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796. Mobile: Cormac 086 3519492 or Cathal 086 1409158 • Email: teamearley@remax.ie • Web: www.teamearley.ie

New to market at Remax Team Earley… a captivating dormer bungalow at Cruby Hill, Roscommon RE/MAX Team Earley proudly presents to the market a captivating 5-bedroomed dormer in the esteemed Cruby Hill area of Roscommon Town. Nestled on an expansive approx. 0.37 of an acre mature and secluded site, this property offers a rare opportunity to own a residence in this highly sought after prime location. Upon entering the property, you are welcomed by an inviting front porch leading to a spacious hallway. The ground floor boasts a generously-sized sitting room with an open fire, a large, tiled kitchen cum dining room, a practical laundry room, two bedrooms (one with an ensuite), an office, and a family bathroom. The upper level features three bedrooms, one of which includes a walk-in wardrobe, adding a touch of luxury to the overall charm of this residence. This well appointed home provides a perfect balance of comfort, functionality, and style for a discerning buyer seeking a property that

combines contemporary living with a tranquil atmosphere. Its proximity to Roscommon Town provides the convenience of easy access to a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, schools, and public transportation, all within walking distance. The vibrant community of Roscommon and its picturesque surroundings offer a harmonious blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty, creating an ideal living environment. Act quickly, as this property is in high demand. Contact us at 086 0848590 to secure your opportunity, as this residence is sure to be snapped up swiftly. BER D1 rating. The auctioneer highly recommends viewing this select property. For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or Keith on 086 0848590 and/or email teamearley@remax.ie or log onto www.teamearley.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

New ifac report highlights the top concerns of Irish farmers Irish farmers are facing another year of uncertainty with input prices, the challenge of succession planning, the nitrates cuts and our weather all weighing heavily on their minds. That is according to the Irish Farm Report 2024 conducted by ifac, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm. The report features findings from its annual farmer survey containing the views of 1,048 Irish farmers; the survey took place between October and November 2023. For the third year running, concerns about input prices are high. According to the findings, 66% of Irish farmers say input prices are still the biggest concern. And the financial pressure doesn’t stop there – 1 in 3 are unsure if they have sufficient working capital/cash on hand for the next 6 months. The survey also shows that succession planning is still a major stumbling block for farmers. Almost half of Irish farming families (48%) have yet to identify a successor. However, 94% still believe there are significant challenges for succession planning, with 1 in 4 naming viability as the biggest obstacle. While succession is certainly more topical, failing to take the first step of identifying a successor or considering an alternative option (e.g. partnership, leasing, or selling up) is preventing farm-

ing families from securing the future of their farm and providing sustainable incomes for those retiring and the next generation. In addition, climate action is at the forefront of farmers’ minds and they remain committed to taking on projects that benefit the environment. If the opportunity arose, 41% of respondents would lease land to a solar or wind project, yet 48% see financial investment/return as the biggest barrier to considering renewable diversification on farms. The findings also point to issues with employment and the struggle to find available farm employees. Of the farmers surveyed, 30% say they will not have enough staff throughout 2024 and 4 in 5 of those employing family members on their farms (sole traders) are not aware of the difference in benefits of the PRSI classes, unknowingly preventing their family members from benefiting from the Class A advantages. Ifac’s Irish Farm Report 2024 also features helpful case studies and plenty of advice for Irish farmers on a whole host of topics such as managing successors, the Women Farmers’ Capital Investment Scheme, maximising time as a young farmer, cashflow tips, auto-enrolment (semi-mandatory retirement savings), the potential of solar, transitioning to winter milk, and the Class A PSRI advantages for family members working on the farm.

‘Get the right advice’

John Donoghue, Chief Executive of ifac said: “At ifac, we have been providing expert, tailored advice and a range of supports to help farming families for 49 years. Our teams all over the country are on hand to help farmers manage their finances, enhance efficiencies, and strengthen their businesses.

“While many farmers are concerned about the things they cannot control, there are still opportunities for many to ease some of their worries about the future by getting the right financial advice about the actions they can take such as identifying a willing successor; putting a will, sufficient life cover and a pension in place; prepar-

ing budgets and managing cashflow. All of which is contained in our sixth Irish Farm Report. “Our report demonstrates the steps that can be taken with the right advice to solve some of the worries farmers have, in particular around succession and cash management”

ROSCOMMON TYRE CENTRE

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Call us today to create your Succession Plan.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Humphreys welcomes ESRI report on monitoring Rural Policy On Monday, the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys welcomed an Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) report that seeks to inform the development of a high level monitoring framework for rural development in Ireland. The report, titled ‘Developing a Framework to Monitor Rural Development Policy in Ireland: Opportunities and Challenges’, draws on international best practice to emphasise the importance of a long term monitoring approach to understanding rural development outcomes. It puts forward a range of potential Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) which would inform the monitoring of rural development policy outcomes over the long-term, and identifies data to support this. A total of 45 KPIs were identified for measuring the impact of the Government’s five-year rural development policy, ‘Our Rural Future (2021-2025)’.

particular emphasis on equality and sustainability. Your Proud Representative Welcoming the ESRI reFor Roscommon-Galway port, Minister Humphreys The Square, Roscommon, said: “My Department Co. Roscommon delivers a large range of T: 087 9400383 different schemes worth over €400 million each Society Street, Ballinasloe, year, working with rural County Galway communities, community E: aisling.dolan@oireachtas.ie groups, social enterprises, local authorities, Men’s W: www.aislingdolan.org Sheds, and Tidy Towns groups across the country. This funding has a hugely positive effect on communities, and I want to ensure we are measuring the wider impacts of this investment and Government-wide actions in place through Our Rural Future. “I welcome the publication of this ESRI report which will help build Contact our data and insights in this space, support our Strokestown, Co. Roscommon evidence informed policy Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344 decisions, and complement work across Government Wishing all of our customers a Merry on developing Ireland’s Wellbeing Framework”. Christmas and happy and healthy new year The report and an ESRI practical guide on monitoring rural development policy can be found here on gov.ie

DEAD & WORN-OUT ANIMALS TOM ROGERS

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys

An additional 69 indicators were identified for measuring rural development impacts under the National Well-being Framework.

Ireland’s Well-being Framework, which was launched in July 2021, seeks to move beyond using just economic measures to gauge our progress as

a country, by looking at economic, environmental and social issues together, rather than separately or in isolation. It focuses on quality of life, with a

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Minister to address ICSA Conference in Athlone this evening

The ICSA AGM and Annual Conference is taking place today (Thursday, 1st of February 2024) at the Athlone Springs Hotel, Monksland, Athlone, Co Roscommon. The event will feature special guest speaker Mr Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

The theme for this year’s conference is: ‘Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security – the One Road?’. During the event, Sean McNamara, the current ICSA Sheep chair, will assume the role of president of ICSA, succeeding Dermot Kelleher, whose term will come to a close. The conference open

session will commence at 3.30 pm with a panel discussion featuring guests: Colm Markey MEP; Maria Walsh MEP; Barry Cowen TD; Michael Fitzmaurice TD; Claire Kerrane TD. The evening session of the conference featuring Minister McConalogue will commence at 7 pm.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

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Pictured at the Teagasc National Sheep Conference which took place in the Athlone Springs Hotel last week are (l-r) Donal Fahy, Teagasc Advisor, Ballinasloe; James Kelly, Teagasc Advisor, Roscommon Town; Dr Frank O’Mara, Director of Teagasc; Tom Kelleher, Regional Teagasc Manager, Roscommon/Longford and James Mimnagh, Teagasc Advisor, Longford. Pic: Clare Frances

Biodiversity Plan recognises Tom Crosby role farmers are playing – IFA Telephone:

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IFA Environment & Rural Affairs Chair John Murphy said it is encouraging to see that the 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan recognises the scale of the work that’s ongoing by farmers to improve biodiversity. “It is important to note that Irish farmers are already contributing strongly to biodiversity. On average, farms in Ireland have about 13% of their land dedicated to Space for Nature. As well as that, farmers have committed

to further significant measures as part of the Agri Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES), which will be positive. “The extended power of the plan and the scope of the actions – be they legislative, policy or programme-related – will need to be fully considered. Farmers do have concerns, particularly around the impact some of the actions will have on their livelihoods,” he said. He said that it is vital

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IFA Environment Committee Vice-Chair John Murphy.

that the plan is adequately funded to give farmers confidence. “More support is needed to deliver on the plan and clarity will be needed. A follow-on commitment from the Government to providing this support is now essential. “It is positive to see the action within the plan to ensure that the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme is adequately resourced. This is essential in order to support farmers to deliver on the conserva-

tion objectives in protected areas, but the scheme must fully compensate, both for the income loss and the devaluation of the land asset,” he said. “The positive engagement by farmers with European Innovation

Programmes (EIP), LIFE and other projects demonstrates a willingness by farmers to adapt when they are supported, both from an advisory and financial perspective, to implement more nature positive practices,” he said.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

New Teagasc/FBD Environmental Sustainability Awards < JAMES MIMNAGH (SIGNPOST CLIMATE ADVISOR, TEAGASC LONGFORD AND ROSCOMMON)

Are you interested in winning up to €10,000 while at the same time getting recognition for running your farm in a sustainable way? Because Teagasc and FBD have just launched a new Environmental Sustainability Awards Competition which offers the winner exactly that. To be in with a chance to win, you need to demonstrate the progress you are making in improving environmental sustainability, while continuing to produce high quality, nutritious food, in a profitable way. There are two main aims to the awards: one,

to promote environmental sustainability on Irish farms, and two, to give recognition to the farmers that are making good progress in improving environmental sustainability on their farms. The hope is that these awards can help farmers, consumers and Irish citizens to be proud of the great work undertaken by Irish farmers. The awards are open to all farmers in dairy, beef, sheep and tillage enterprises. Application is done via a short online application form, which can be found at teagasc.ie/environmentawards. The closing date is Thursday, the 29th of February, so don’t delay and apply today! Teagasc provides a Local Advisory and Education service to farmers. They have offices based in Roscommon Town (090

Agri Contractors Ltd.

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

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Digger now available with Flail Head All digger work carried out

6626166), Castlerea (094 9620160) and Longford (043 3341021), and can be contacted via email at RoscommonLongfordAdvisory@teagasc.ie. Keep up to date with Teagasc’s social media by finding them on Facebook (@ TeagascRoscommonLongford) and Twitter/X (@teagascRNLD).

Please ring the Constituency Office in advance to make an appointment, tel: 090 66 28479 or email michael.fitzmaurice@oireachtas.ie

Michael

Pictured is James Mimnagh (Signpost Climate Advisor, Teagasc Longford and Roscommon).

IFA meet Revenue on VAT refund issue

IFA President Francie Gorman

ulhern Bro

IFA President Francie Gorman led a delegation to meet the Revenue Commissioners recently on the issue of VAT rebates to farmers who have carried out essential works on their farms. Under VAT 58 rules, farmers who aren’t registered for VAT, can reclaim VAT on certain capital expenditure items. Issues have arisen in recent months whereby some items which farmers had previously received refunds on, are no longer eligible. Francie Gorman said IFA laid out the importance of these refunds for farms to enable them to make investments in their farms. “After engagement on this issue, Revenue officials confirmed to IFA that refunds will be available on drafting gates, hydraulic scrapers and new-build milking parlours. It was also outlined by Revenue that VAT refunds are not applicable on heat and health monitoring systems or slurry bags”. IFA Farm Business Chair Bill O’Keeffe said, “there are still a number of items that IFA believe a VAT refund should be allowed for. It was agreed at this meeting that IFA will make a further submission on these items”.

Fitzmaurice TD Mobile: 086 1914565

Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

FARMING & RURAL LIVING Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

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THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. VIEWING AT 10 A.M. FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

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Special Entry of 20 Springers and 7 In Calf Cows Bookings accepted until Thursday, 1st February at 5 p.m. ------------------------

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Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. Gates close at 10 a.m. ************

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Roscommon not in initial Outdoor Recreation Pilot Programme A recent press statement from the Department of Rural and Community Development confirms that Roscommon is not part of the initial rollout of a pilot programme aimed at enhancing outdoor recreation across Ireland. This programme is part of a broader initiative under the ‘Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors’ National Outdoor Recreation Strategy for 2023-2027. Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, announced the allocation of €2 million for developing outdoor recreation at the county level on December 28th, 2023. This funding includes

€780,000 for ‘County Outdoor Recreation Plans’ and €1.28 million over three years for the appointment of County Outdoor Recreation Officers in six counties as part of a pilot programme. The chosen counties for this pilot are Clare, Longford, Sligo, Waterford, Mayo and Meath. The press release outlines that the key objective of these plans is to guide and facilitate the development of outdoor recreation and support future funding applications for outdoor amenities. These ‘County Outdoor Recreation Plans’ aim to provide a more structured and coordinated approach to

outdoor recreation in each county. Each participating county will receive funding of up to €30,000 to develop these plans, which will consider current amenities and outline the future location of outdoor recreation infrastructure and services over the next three years. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen and support the sustainable development of outdoor recreation in Ireland. While Roscommon is not part of the initial pilot programme, the intention is that if successful, the scheme will extend to all rural counties (obviously including Roscommon). This approach suggests

a phased implementation, with learnings from the pilot expected to inform the broader rollout. According to Minister Humphreys: “More than ever people are getting active in the outdoors and we want to make sure everyone has access to high-quality amenities and experiences. That’s why I am pleased to announce these new supports...” Minister Humphreys concluded by highlighting that these supports are part of a range of initiatives to develop the outdoor recreation sector throughout Ireland, central to the delivery of the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy.

Nature Restoration Law must be amended says INHFA

With the European Parliament set to sign off on the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) during February, the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) have written to all MEPs and Oireachtas members outlining an amendment that they say will safeguard CAP payments and promote voluntary engagement over the compulsory involvement currently favoured through this law. The proposed amendment is as follows: ‘The obligation for Member States (MS) to achieve the restoration target in the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) shall not imply an obligation for farmers to restore, re-establish or rewet their agricultural land. Nor does it imply that these agricultural lands are not in good condition and shall be eligible to continue to be supported under current and

future CAP Programmes. Engagement with the NRL shall be on a voluntary basis above and beyond CAP interventions’. Speaking on this, INHFA President Vincent Roddy said the proposed law in its current form is a direct threat to CAP payments. This assessment has, he stated, “been formed on the basis of an analysis of the compromise document on Nature Restoration which was agreed last November”. The amendment detailed – and which other farming organisations have indicated support for – will, Mr Roddy maintained, “protect farmer payments in current and future CAP Programmes which is something we expect our public representatives both in Ireland and in Europe will be anxious to achieve”.

Roscommon MART WATCH

Castlerea MART WATCH

There was a large entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s Special Sale of Bullocks. Bullocks fetched an average of €1.79 per kilo up to €3.48. There was also a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €1.84 per kilo up to €2.73 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active. We had a large number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes. Prices for finished lambs made up to €167. The tops for stag ewes fetched €169. There was also a selection of breeding ewes on offer and they fetched up to €200. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Next sale of lambs and cast ewes is next Wednesday, February 7th at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www. livestock-live.com.

Large numbers of stock presented for sale last week, with excellent demand on offer for all categories. The bullock ring experienced quality stores making up to €3.77 a kilo with heavier lots making up to €2380. Heifers topped out at €2180 with both ringside and online customers very anxious for stock. The weanling rings witnessed the bulls making up to €3.46 a kilo while the heifers hit €4.96 a kilo for a 290kgs Belgian blue heifer calf. Dry cows peaked at €2300, while breeding cows hit €1800. Calves and runners sections reported a good clearance also. Sample prices Bullocks: AAx 495kgs €1660 Ch 480kgs €1650 Ch 505kgs €1550 Ch 463kgs €1490 Ch 570kgs €1660 Ch 630kgs €2380 AA 630kgs €1800 Ch 690kgs €2320 Hex 725kgs €2310 AA 655kgs €1870. Heifers: Lmx 425kgs €1340 AAx 410kgs €1270 Lmx 340kgs €1200 Lmx 470kgs €1580 AA 478kgs €1450 Ch 735kgs €2180 Lm

Sample prices for dry cows: CHX 790Kg €2,160, LMX 770Kg €1,750, CHX 675Kg €1,540, CHX 795Kg €2,100, HEX 730Kg €1,650, FR 505kg €1,000, LMX 700kg €1,770, HEX 640Kg €1,370, FRX 565kg €1,060. Bullocks: LMX 740Kg €2,380, AA 865kg €2,190, AAX 485kg €1,510, CHX 710Kg €2,360, SLX 710Kg €1,900, HEX 685kg €1,690, LMX 660kg €2,300 CHX 655kg €2,260, CH 505kg €1,670. Heifers: SAX 665kg €1,840, LMX 595kg €1,730, AAX 525kg €1,470. Finished lambs: 56 kgs €167, 58 kgs €166, 61 kgs €164, 54 kgs €163, 55.3 kgs €163, 50.8 kgs €159, 52 kgs €158, 47.8 kgs €155, 48.6 kgs €154, 46 kgs €140. Store lambs: 40.5 kgs €128, 40.5 kgs €126, 38.4 kgs €125, 37 kgs €116, 36.5 kgs €104. Cast ewes made from €60 to €169 per lot.

555kgs €1770 Ch 505kgs €1670. Dry cows: Ch 935kgs €2300 Sim 880kgs €2260 Ch 780kgs €2060 Lmx 700kgs €1970 Lm 720kgs €1890 Fr 430kgs €640 AA 685kgs €1680 Fr 775kgs €1570 Hex 580kgs €1300. Cows with calves at foot made from €1300 to €1740. Springers made from €720 to €1800. Calves: Young calves made from €20 to €350, while runners made from €350 to €940 for continental types. Weanling bulls: Lmx 265kgs €910 AA 280kgs €880 Lm 405kgs €1390 Lm 450kgs €1400 Lm 408kgs €1350 Lm 300kgs €910 Lm 320kgs €1100 Lm 375kgs €1300. Weanling heifers: BBx 290kgs €1440 Lm 280kgs €1190 Ch 250kgs €900 Ch 190kgs €690 AA 170kgs €530 Lm 280kgs €1190 Lm 285kgs €990. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

NewsPeople

My ‘up close and personal’ view of France’s environmental and agricultural protests Let’s talk about ... The pumpkin soup and the Mona Lisa (A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy

Here at the Roscommon People, we are dedicated to ensuring we bring you the latest news. We are in fact so committed to being the first to the story that last weekend, I was in the Louvre in Paris in the actual room showcasing the Mona Lisa a full day before protesters threw a can of pumpkin soup at it. We were so quick to the story, we beat the story itself. Of course in all seriousness, it was merely coincidence that out of all the times to visit the iconic museum, I ended up going the same weekend it made headlines off the back of the recent soup-throwing incident, the latest in what is quickly becoming an expansive series of dramatic stunts by environmental activists to gain exposure for their cause. When I first heard about the story, I presumed the group behind it had been Just Stop Oil. After all, the environmental activism group have become notorious over the last year or two for this exact kind of thing, with the demonstration that first saw them in mainstream headlines literally involving protestors throwing tomato soup at Van Gogh’s Sunflowers. However, despite what I (and indeed many) presumed, the two women that threw soup at the Mona Lisa on Sunday were not from Just Stop Oil, but instead from the French environmental group Riposte Alimentaire (which translates to ‘Food Counterattack/ Response’). After throwing the soup and breaching the divider separating the public from the painting, the women stood facing the crowd and said, “What is more important? Art, or the right to healthy and sustainable food?”. Before museum staff could block them and evacuate the room, they added, “Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work”. It would appear that while their methodology of gaining exposure may be controversial, this core concern of theirs is not an uncommon one. In our brief getaway to Paris (thank you Ryanair January sales), this was not even the first time discontent

over the state of the French agricultural system cropped up (sorry for the pun). Grassroots farmer demonstrations have been bubbling across the country for a while now but reached a head in recent days – with hay and tractors used to block main highways, manure sprayed on buildings, and crates of produce farmers said had been cheaply imported dumped across roads. The impact of this was seen in a small way during our trip when as a result, the hour and a half shuttle between the city and the airport ended up taking much closer to two and a half hours. This made little difference to us on the way in (as most of it was spent catching up on sleep anyways), but did indeed almost cause significant problems when, despite allowing for extra time on the day we were travelling back, the delays meant we arrived at the airport a lot closer to the gate closure time than one would normally prefer. Thankfully however, we could count on Ryanair to have delayed our flight for forty minutes… something that was only revealed after we had stressed and panicked our way through security, checking the time every few minutes to make sure we were still on track to make it. But while these demonstrations by independent producers of meat, dairy, fruit, vegetables, etc – who form the backbone of the agricultural system in France, which is the EU’s biggest agricultural producer – have indeed been causing a lot of noise and impacting daily life enough to force government attention, it is hard to replicate the kind of headlines something like Sunday’s stunt generates. Whether or not these stunts are as successful in starting a fruitful conversation about the climate fight as they are in causing a big but temporary slew of headlines about the fact an artwork was targeted is another topic altogether, and a topic I have already written a column about previously. But nevertheless they do spark exposure, because it’s the kind of thing that shocks people. People don’t expect things like famous artworks to be able to be easily targeted; hell, especially not the Mona Lisa, which has a storied history of attacks, attempted attacks, and even a successful robbery. And it is true to say that it still remained unharmed (bulletproof glass protects the painting, and in all these stories about environmental activists targeting artworks, so far it appears these stunts are always done in such a way that the artworks remain unharmed in the end), but people still don’t expect it to be so relatively easy to hurl pumpkin soup at the Mona Lisa –

especially when they’re constantly updating their protective measures and someone already threw cake at it in 2022. But as much as Sunday’s news suggests otherwise, I can also tell you anecdotally, that that may not be the case. During our trip to the museum on Saturday, we popped into a café within the Louvre before we headed off to view the various artworks and statues. I got myself a (surprisingly-not-that-overpriced) coffee which remained in my hand as we queued, and although it would’ve made total sense for the lady who checked our tickets to tell me to dump it when she saw me holding it, she did not, and so (perhaps naively) thinking nothing of it, I headed into the museum with my friend and we pottered about checking

out the exhibits and me taking the occasional sip of my Americano. Eventually however, a couple of exhibits later, I caught the eye of a member of staff who told me I shouldn’t have been allowed bring the coffee in and asked me to throw it out (not on any of the artworks mind you). She even walked me to the bin to ensure I did, and on the way there (between my countless “I’m sorrys” and “I didn’t realise”type utterances) she assuaged me that it was not a big deal on my part but that it is indeed forbidden and she was going to have a strict talk with her staff to tell them off and get them to be stricter. At the time, I felt very guilty about getting the nice lady at the ticket check-in into trouble, but after last Sunday’s antics, I think I’m in the clear.

open eir accelerates Roscommon’s connectivity

open eir has announced the successful expansion of its high-speed fibre-to-the-home (FFTH) network, passing more than 1.1 million premises, which it says is a record-breaking number of homes and businesses across the country.

Telecommunications operator open eir has announced that an additional 1,265 homes and businesses across Roscommon can access gigabit fibre since December 2022, according to new data from its fibre-to-thehome (FTTH) broadband rollout programme. This project has now reached almost 1.2 million homes and businesses nationwide, setting a new record for fibre broadband coverage in the country. This expansion means that more than 3.2 million people can now benefit from full fibre broadband

connectivity, with almost 36,000 of those being based in County Roscommon. On completion, this cuttingedge gigabit network will be available to 1.9 million homes and businesses, covering 84% of premises’ in Ireland. The company’s FTTH rollout marks a major stride in bridging connectivity gaps, ensuring widespread access to high-speed internet and enabling more homes and businesses to thrive in an increasingly digital world. The fibre build project has already delivered fibre access in

Roscommon to 13,438 homes and businesses. Upon completion, following investment of over €11.5 million into the Roscommon network alone, the network will serve over 18,000 premises across County Roscommon, facilitating broadband speeds up to 100 times faster than a traditional copper network. In 2023, open eir passed thousands of new-build homes, including apartments, meaning its rollout covered nearly two-thirds of all new-builds in the country.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

Classifieds

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

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

ACCOUNTS

CHIMNEY CLEANING

COMPUTERS DC Computer Services

Complete Chimney Services McGowan Accountancy Services

“Your Success is Our Business” Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders • Partnerships Specialising in: • Payroll • PAYE & PRSI • VAT • Annual Accounts • Start Ups • Business Mentoring FREE First Consultation

Web: www.mcgowanaccountancy.com Email: nuala@mcgowanaccountancy.com OFFICE: 090 66 25818 MOBILE: 086 0352849

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS < ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21 (1st Floor). Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm.

Chimney Cleaning

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

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

087 2798704

CHIROPRACTOR

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

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

NO FIX NO FEE

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

CONSTRUCTION

Stephen Casey

Construction l General Building

l Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV

Inspections l Chimney Repair

- Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING

SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED ONLINE

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

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.

Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

< FREE: Husky Cross Collie pups, free to a good home, 3 months old. Tel: 086 8988696

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

DRIVING LESSONS

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:

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

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

VHI and Laya Covered

FREE TO GOOD HOME

086 8936012

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

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?

Online counselling available. Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

web: www psychotherapy glynisdowney.com

FARMING

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock of parts available and can be fitted on sprayers

All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

FARMING < FOR SALE: Good quality Round bales of Silage for sale. Tel: 087 9159067 < FOR SALE: 52 bales of haylage or part thereoff. Saved in good weather during the summer, reasonable price, Elphin/Strokestown area. Tel: 086 2492033 < FOR SALE: 200 Round bales of good quality silage for sale. Baled in good weather in June 2023. Lanesboro/Newtowncashel area. Tel: 086 8307674

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 2008 Suzuki Swift 1.3, 205,000 km, NCT January 2025, €1,600, silver in colour. Phone: 086 2281535 < FOR SALE: 2011 Skoda Octavia Style, 1 litre, TSI petrol, only 13,000km genuine mileage, blue in colour. 2 x 2007 Toyota Auris 1.4 petrol, both very good condition, one black, one gold. Tel: 086 2650994

FENCING/GATES

Des Kelly Fencing Over 30 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on

087 2346364

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l l

For all your fencing needs. GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

Tel: 087 2172281

GARDENING

JOE HEALY

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

087 2721193

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklaw treeservices.com

Tommy’s Trees & Hedging

GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

l General Maintenance Dangerous Tree Removal l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped l Wood Chipping l Fully Insured Contact Alan on

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

GATELY GARDENING

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

Kerins Plant Ltd Tree Care & Plant Hire Residential & Commercial Tree Care

Tree removal Tree crowning l Dangerous roadside tree removal l Site clearance and mulching l Wood chipping l Stump grinding l Fully insured and certified l l

Telephone: 087-3477546 Email: kerinsplantcivilsltd @gmail.com

FOR SALE

GRINDS/TUITION

We supply all types of trees and hedging, Laurel, Beech, Whitethorn, Oak, Elder Birch, Dog rose, Gelder Rose, Crab Apple, Wild Cherry and Holly.

< LEAVING CERT BIOLOGY GRINDS: Experienced Science and Biology Teacher - Roscommon Town. In depth revision of exam topics. Comprehensive revision notes. Exam Question Strategy. Contact: 087 7708169

Suitable for ACRES & GLAS Scheme and REPS Scheme. Can be delivered Card payment accepted. Phone: 087 4177148

< MATHS GRINDS: All Levels. Experienced Tutor. 1-to-1 and small groups possible. Call/Text/Whatsapp Coman: 085 706 3536

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

Classifieds

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

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Sinead Keenehan and Martin Gaffney, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for (1) demolition of an existing single storey detached dwelling house, shed and barn; and (2) The proposed construction of replacement single storey detached dwelling house, a detached single storey garage, decommissioning of the existing on site wastewater treatment system and installation of a replacement proprietary wastewater treatment system with discharge to a packaged tertiary unit and a distribution attenuation layer, provision of a new vehicle access into the site from the road via the north boundary and ancillary site works at Emlagh, Carrick-On-Shannon, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, All-Star Shredding Ltd., intend to apply for permission for Retention and Permission for Change of use of an existing industrial unit for the following; (1) Permission for Retention is sought for the additional floor area within the workshop area of the building and the addition of office space to front of building. (2) Permission for change of use is sought for the entire building to provide two separate areas for the following uses (a) use as a storage facility for medical device tools (b) for the collection, dismantling, processing and preparation for onward transportation of disused computer components for purpose of recycling. (3) Alterations to the existing elevations of the building associated with the addition of external fire escape doors and provision of signage. (4) All ancillary and site works associated with the above. At Teevnacreeva Td., Tibohine, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Fionnuala and Seán McGuinness, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission and retention for: Construction of 1 new single storey domestic dwelling, WWTs to EPA CoP 2021 EN 12566-3 with tertiary treatment system and all other associated site works and (B) Retention of existing entrance to our site at Cloonfad, Leitrim Village, 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 the public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by Roscommon County Council 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, Micheál Fallon intend to apply for permission for development at Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of a dwellinghouse, garage, waste water treatment system and associated siteworks.

Roscommon County Council I, Niamh O’Donohue, intend to apply for permission for development at site at Hodson Bay, Barrymore, Athlone, County Roscommon. The development will consist of erection of single storey dwelling with associated ancillary site works, single storey outbuilding and new proposed site entrance with new gates and piers.

Signed: Sinead Keenehan and Martin Gaffney. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee

not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning

authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Alexandra Christy is applying to Roscommon County Council for retention planning of an existing Septic Tank System installed in accordance with EPA Code of Practice, Domestic Waste Water Systems, Population Equivalent ≤ 10 at 2 Cloghnashade, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon. F42 EA49. Signed: Alexandra Christy

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.

subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph: (090)6634421 Fax: (090)663423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Brian Geraghty intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct 6 Bay Slatted shed with creep and associated site works at Curlea Td. Curraghboy, 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: Brian Geraghty

Signed:

Vincent Durkin (Agent). www.DurkinDesign.ie Architectural Design & Engineering solutions Tel: 086 83 72 933

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We John and Nonie Healy intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission at our home, Ballyculleen, Drumlion, Co. Roscommon, for (A) Construction of a 2 storey 4 Bedroom dwelling, (B) Domestic Garage and (C) form New Entrance piers with setback post and rail fence C/W Wastewater Treatment system to EPA CoP 2021 EN 12566-3 standards and all other site works as required. 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:

Durkin Design (Agent). www.DurkinDesign.ie Architectural Designs Tel: 086 83 72 933

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. 2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon. Ph: (087) 2222874

refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, John and Marie Noone, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for the following: 1. Planning permission to demolish first floor extension to rear of existing dwelling including boiler house, stairs to first floor balcony to side of dwelling, ground floor bedroom and utility room. 2. Demolish and remove bay window to front of existing dwelling. 3. Totally refurbish existing dwelling, associated site development works and services at Rathlena, Garranlahan, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon. 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 a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

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, Arad an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon 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 €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt, by Roscommon Country Council, of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. Signed: Niamh O’Donohue

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Simon Coyle for Planning permission for the construction of 8 detached dwelling houses complete with the installation of a waste water treatment system/tertiary treatment and infiltration area, for demolition of 2 derelict buildings, for the provision of storm water attenuation/ connection to existing storm water drainage system, for the provision of a compensatory flood water storage area, for the provision of a public path fronting the site along the R357 road, for the provision of a refuse collection storage area, for the creation of a new entrance onto the public road, for the connections to the existing public utilities and all necessary landscaping/ancillary siteworks at Carricknagat, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Magliocco Creative Design Ltd Architects Phone: 083 4265825 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 €20.00 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.

APPOINTMENTS

SHANNON LODGE NURSING HOME Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

We require the following staff:

l Night Staff Nurse l Night Care Assistant • Premium for Sundays and Bank Holidays. • Free meals, tea and coffee. • Paid lunchbreaks. • Pension Scheme facilitated. • Cycle to work scheme available.

Applications, including CVs can be emailed to: office@shannonlodgenursinghome.ie Garda vetting and references will be required.

WE ARE HIRING

JOIN OUR TEAM!!

OFFICE ASSISTANT REQUIRED DUTIES INCLUDE: l Handling incoming calls and other communications l Managing Filing system l Recording information as needed l Greeting Clients and Visitors as needed l Updating paperwork, maintaining documents and word processing l Issuing and Reconciling Invoicing l Completing all bank transactions and also carrying out basic Book Keeping

Send your CV to:

teamearley@remax.ie <CONCRETE/SHUTTERING GANGER: Required for contract in the Connaught region. Steel Fixing to bases, shuttering and pour concrete. <EXCAVATOR DRIVER AND GROUNDWORKER: For ducting/fencing at the same contract. Good pay and conditions with a reputable company. 6 – 9 months’ work. (railway work). Contact: Conneely Builders Tel: 0909631836, Office Mobile 0863898253 or collette@ conneelybuilders.com. <FULL TIME/PART TIME MECHANIC: Required at Civil Engineering firm. Dealing with servicing of heavy and small plant. Workshop based with occasional on site call outs. Preparation of vehicles for CVRT Testing for HGV’s and LCV’s. Ballinasloe/Galway based. Rates negotiable. Contact: Conneely Builders Tel: 090 9631836, Office Mobile 086 3898253 (& ask for Mark) or collette@ conneelybuilders.com

< LADY WANTED: 4 hours, 3 days a week for cleaning, good rate paid. Tel: 087 4162251 <PAYROLL SPECIALIST/HR ADMIN / ACCOUNTS PERSON: required for work based near Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Immediate start, full-time position. Dealing with all payroll information/timesheets, reconciliation of PAYE/PRSI/USC and Pensions. lPASS Qualified an advantage, proficient in Excel, Word and other Microsoft programs. Experience in Quantum Software package would be an advantage. Please forward CV to collette@ conneelybuilders.com. Phone: 090 9631836. To view all open roles, see Conneely Builders Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

Classifieds 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

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

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

USEFUL SERVICES PLANT HIRE & GROUNDWORKS

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays. l HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

PODIATRIST

Tar & Chip Driveways

Call Owen for ground work

086 895 3884 Call Padraic for concreting

10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone:

083 0684011

< FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Excellent quality hardwood, Birch, Ash etc. 8x5 car trailer loads, tractor trailer loads and bags also available. Size cut to order. Also turf available. Call after 5pm 085 7848606

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

086 2437376 PLUMBING

Plumbing & Maintenance • Bathroom planning and design to suit you • All aspects of plumbing and maintenance • Boiler Servicing • Heating Installation • Call for FREE QUOTATION

Contact Luke on

085 7359120

Tullys Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

TOP QUALITY TURF

USEFUL SERVICES

PODIATRIST

085 226 4664 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

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

For all foot ailments

Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatment.

Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: Phone: (089) 4142233 SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

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

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

Kilroe Tiling

or email michaelkilroe123@gmail.com for all your tiling needs.

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

086 3482387

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

REFLEXOLOGY

Reflexology Marina Furey B. Sc. (MNRRI) (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Reflexology works by applying gentle pressure to the reflex points of the feet/hand to trigger the natural healing power of the body

• Fertility Reflexology • Antenatal Reflexology • Baby/Child Reflexology • Special Needs Reflexology • Menopause Reflexology • Cancer Care Reflexology

Benefits:

• Relaxation • Stress & Pain relief • Improves circulation, digestion, sleep • Lowers blood pressure

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

USEFUL SERVICES <SOCIAL DANCING: Continues every Friday night in An Bothar Rua, Elphin with live music. This Friday night with Billy Corcoran, dance 9.00pm til late. Tel. 087 9809432

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

The most read newspaper in County Roscommon!

Gift Vouchers Available

Tel: 087 2264951

OIL BOILER SERVICE

From €90 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 9373445 087 9100477

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

087 9657933 or 090 66 33084

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small.

DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p0862553153 @gmail.com

GRINDS

PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

COVERING ROSCOMMON AREA TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

TREE SHEARING REVISION COURSES Junior and Leaving Cert HL For further information

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

l Tree Shearing l Tree Felling

l Dangerous Tree Removed

(Commercial & Domestic)

Harpur Bros, Castlecole,

Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

APPOINTMENTS EXTRA

Tel:

TILER

Professional Tiler available

PLANNINGS

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

USEFUL SERVICES

The local paper!

< PART TIME NURSE: A vacancy has come available for a part time nurse in our Daycare Centre, based in Glenamaddy. Experience in care of the elderly desirable. Successful applicant will work alongside a supportive and friendly team.Closing date for applications is February 15th 2024. Please contact the office on 094 9659269 or email us at glendaycare@gmail.com for more information.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 AtYourServiceEXTRA USEFUL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

KEEN RATES

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION

Richie Dooner

ALPHA ROOFING

Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon

1st and 2nd fix Panelling l Sliding Wardrobes l All general construction l Media wall units sprayed painted or skimmed l l

Phone: 083 1628531 Email: richarddooner@yahoo.ie

Carpenter Available Doors l Floors l Stairs l Wall Panelling Glenamaddy/

KITCHENS

ROOFING

l Slate roofs l Tiled roofs l Flat roofs, using all type of materials l Roof windows l Lead replacing l Pointing work l Leak detection l All roofing repair work

Mobile: 086 8874576 Email: info@alpharoofing.ie Web: www.alpharoofing.ie

Focus360 KITCHENS • SUPPLY AND FIT • REMODEL/UPGRADE • 3D PLAN • KITCHENS TO SUIT EVERY BUDGET

Call/WhatsApp DAVID 083 069 5820 MASSAGE TREATMENTS

Roscommon area Over 30 years experience

Phone Tommy

086 8934576 ROOFING

Roof Repairs

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

PMC Painting Contractors

Commercial & Residential

24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service l New roofs, all roofing & flatroof repairs l Dry Verge Repointing l Package deal on Roofing restoration, cleaning, moss removal, replace broken tiles l Gutters/Facia & Soffitts l Chimney Repairs, Lead Flashing repairs l Patio Services, Powerwashing, Drains and Footpaths l Painting & Decorating l Renovations, Porches, Walls & Garden Design l Barn repairs & farm painting

Tel: 087 6117326 < 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.

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

Window Protection Ireland Commercial/Domestic Registered and Insured All areas covered Also protecting windows during construction see windowprotection.ie GUTTER CLEANING ALSO AVAILABLE Telephone

087 9795226

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

086 4679798

NASHVILLE ROOFING Our Services: • Sealing all Gutters • Replacing Slates • General Roof Repairs (Leaks) • Sealing and Cleaning Gutters and Facia, Soffits and Timber in Roofs l Free Callout l Good Rates

Phone:

089 9899912

10%

Discount with this advert.

• Cleaning & Painting Roofs of Houses, Sheds and Barns • Roofs Repairs • Cleaning & Sealing of Driveways/Tarmac • Fully Insured and work guaranteed for 5 years

CALL MICHAEL ON

089 966 1849

APPLICANT FOR GARDA SIOCHANA

Company website

nashvilleroofing.ie

Our Services: • Roof cleaning • Roof repair • New roofs • Lead valleys • New pvc gutters fascia soffit • Gutter repairs • Chimney repairs Contact Liam at

email: roofingcontractors96@gmail.com

INTERESTED IN BEING AN APPLICANT FOR AN GARDA SIOCHANA?

Phone: 083 1479301

THE 2024 GARDA RECRUITMENT GARDA CAMPAIGN IS DUE TO BE ANNOUNCED ON JANUARY 15TH 2024.

GROUND WORKS

I am a retired member of An Garda Siochana since November 2023 having spent twenty years in internal Garda Training and Student / Probationer advancement. Training and Education can be provided by us in the following: l Preparation of initial application form. l Stage (1) Application (online) l Stage (2 ) Application (At Public Service Commission) l Interview preparation for final assessment. l Assistance with Physical testing on Stage 4 l Blended learning on training both online and classroom. l Top class venue available for classroom training. l Available on details listed below during competition on a seven day 24 hour basis. l Ongoing advice and mentoring.

Call or contact (087) 6339725 Gerry or gergac@eircom.net Qualified and experienced Roscommon based Training Provider. This a private training provider and is not associated with any State Body

Gift Vouchers ALSO AVAILABL E

ANIMAL CARE/VETERINARY

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie

GF Ground Works l Landscaping l Paving & Kerbing l Foundations l Footpaths l Drainage & Septic tanks l Driveways l Fully insured l References available

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Eircode: F42 K243 Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653 • Digital X-Ray Facility • In house Blood Analysis • Small Animal Ultra-Sound • Gas Anaesthetic • Veterinary Kennel’s facility •24hrs Emergency Vet on call Clinic Hours: 2pm – 7pm Mon – Friday • Saturday Clinic 10am - 3pm Office Hours: 9am – 7pm Mon - Friday PLEASE CALL TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT

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

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

AtYourService BLINDS

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CARS

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Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

Classifieds

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES LENEHAN Dermot & Gertie Late of Dean Cogan Place, Navan, formerly Carrislira, Strokestown Dermot’s 3rd Anniversary Who passed away on 3rd February, 2021

HOARE Kathleen

MOORE Mary

12 Circular Road, Roscommon

(18th Anniversary)

Who passed away on 6th February 2015 (9th Anniversary)

RAFTERY Michael Circular Road, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS • Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

www.brianmuraystone.com Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com Also remembering at this time his wife Gertie’s 9th Anniversary. Also remembering

Kevin Lenehan Kings Heath, Birmingham, England Who passed away on the 5th November 2023 in Kings Heath, Birmingham, England and will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Memories are precious, they don’t fade away, we think of you always, especially today. From family and friends.

O’HANRAHAN Seamus Roxboro, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

GALVIN Maureen Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon (16th Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear wife and mother and grandmother, who passed away on 18th of January 2008

Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 3rd February at 11am.

Melitta Park, Kildare Town.

Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday, 3rd February 2024 in Derrane Church at 7p.m.

Gone are the days we used to share, but in our hearts you are always there. The gates of memory will never close, we miss you more than anyone knows. With tender love and deep regret, we who love you will never forget.

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

Loved and missed by husband George, children Georgina, William, Frances, Gerard and John, grandchildren George and Ezray. Anniversary Mass for Maureen is in The Church of the Good Shepherd, Tisrara on Friday, 2nd February at 7pm.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by Rosaleen, Siobhan, Marie, Shane and extended family.

Forever loved and missed by all your family.

NAUGHTON Gerard

In loving memory of Seamus who passed away on 26th January 2022. No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts is always kept for you.

There are things that we’ll always remember, no matter how old we may grow, like the fuss that you made on our birthday and the fun that we had long ago. We remember the warmth and the laughter, how we begged you to stay up late. How special you always made Christmas and how we could hardly wait. We recall with a smile how you loved us, how too often you went without, to provide us with all of the extras, but I guess that’s what love is about.

FAMILY NOTICES

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

Love Lives On Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, and cherished memories never fade because a loved one’s gone. Those we love can never be more than a thought apart, for as long as there is memory, they’ll live on in the heart.

Sadly missed by your loving husband George, your children, grandchildren and extended family.

LOHAN (née Lyons) Una Glinsk, Castlerea, Co. Galway (8th Anniversary)

Who died 4th February 2019 (5th Anniversary) Rest In Peace

On the 5th anniversary of Gerard’s death his wife Julie, children David and Sinead and extended family remember Gerard with love. Sadly missed along life’s way quietly remembered everyday. A Mass will be celebrated in memory of Gerard.

Silent memories keep you near as time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may have gone but in our hearts you still live on. Lovingly remembered by Mary and family.

DAD Remembering you is easy, I do it every day. Missing you is a heartache that never goes away. Lovingly remembered by Sandra.

GRANDDAD Loving and kind gentle and true these are the memories we have of you. Love Darcie and Daniel. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church Roscommon on Saturday, 10th February at 10am.

CONNAUGHTON Thomas Sandfield, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon (9th Anniversary) In loving memory of Thomas who passed away on the 13th February 2015

MONTH’S MIND MASS EGAN Alan Ballygar, Co. Galway Who died on 19th December, 2023

The family of the late Alan Egan, would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to all those who sympathised with us on our sad loss. Our sincere thank you to Ballinsloe Emergency Services and Dr. Martin Daly for the care and kindness they have shown us at such a difficult time. Thank you sincerely to Fr. Douglas, Ballygar for all his support and for the beautiful service. Also a massive thank you to David Moran Undertaker, Ballygar for making Alan’s final journey as peaceful as it could be and to his wife Bernie for the beautiful music. Thank you to John and Noleen Fallon for the refreshments after the Funeral Service. Thank you also to Sean McDermott for the beautiful pony and trap, to escort Alan on his final journey. We would also like to thank the gravediggers for preparing Alan’s final place of rest. Thank you to all his work collegues in St. Vincent’s Care Home, Athlone for making every day Alan went to work joyful and happy. Last but not least, a sincere thank you to Garda Pat Regan, Ballygar for all his support and kindness to our family, it meant a lot to us. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, we hope this acknowledgement conveys our sincere thanks and gratitude. Alan’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 10th February at 12 noon in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

A tribute of love to a Mother so dear, so close to our hearts each day of the year. We still have memories to treasure and hold of a wonderful Mother more precious than gold. Remembered by your sons, daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, extended family and friends Anniversary Mass in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, 4th February at 10am.

• Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Will those who think of Thomas today, a little prayer to Jesus say. Forever in our hearts. Sadly missed by his brothers, sisters, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 3rd February at 7pm.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES HEVICAN Mary Bridget

FLANAGAN Margaret

Lisnamult, Roscommon

Four Mile House, Roscommon Who passed away on 7th February 2018. R.I.P. (6th Anniversary)

(28th Anniversary) Cherished memories of our dear mother and grandmother Mary Bridget, who passed away on the 1st February 1996 R.I.P.

DONNELLY Eamon & Christina Tibarney, Four Roads, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon

Eamon (25th Anniversary)

As each day dawns we think of you, as each night falls we pray for you. And in between, no matter where, deep in our hearts you are always there. Loved and sadly missed by your daughter Philomena and granddaughter Roseanne and all the family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 1st February at 11am.

MONTH’S MIND MASS WARD Breege O’Keefe Park, Glenamaddy and formerly of Rosmoylan, Creggs Who passed away on the 13th December 2023

We Breege’s family wish to express our deep gratitude for the kindness and compassion shown to us following the recent death of our cherished Breege. We would like to thank all who sympathised with us, those who called to the house, Funeral Home, attended the Funeral Mass, posted condolences on RIP. ie, sent messages of sympathy and Mass cards. Heartfelt thanks to those who travelled long distances to be with us. We want to thank all those who cared for Breege, University Hospital Galway, Roscommon County Hospital, Portiuncula Hospital Ballinasloe, Hospice Nurse Breda, Home Help, Dr. Cunningham and Garvey’s Chemist, Glenamaddy. Sincere thanks to Fr. Louis Lohan, Fr. Michael O’Brien and Fr. Anthaiah Pndota for offering prayers and blessings in the house. Fr. Donal Morris, Fr. George Agger, Fr. Michael Redden, Fr. Michael O’Brien, Fr. George Lannigan and Fr. Pat Hogan for celebrating Breege’s beautiful Funeral Mass. A special word of thanks to Fr. George Agger for the beautiful words, celebrating Breege’s life in such a meaningful way. Thank you also to Marie Lohan and Sarah Crehan for the beautiful singing and music. Thank you to Tommy Dowd for his professionalism, guidance and attention to detail throughout the Funeral arrangements. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as a token of our appreciation. Breege’s Month’s Mind Mass is on Sunday, February 4th at 11.30am in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet.

LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

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

WHYTE Christy Castlestrange, Athleague Who died 17th February 2016 (8th Anniversary)

Christina (4th Anniversary)

Sadly missed by his sister-in-law Shirley, Elizabeth, Frankie, Olive, Miriam, and Shirley. Mass has been offered. May he Rest in Peace.

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

May He support us all the day long till the shadows lengthen and the evening comes and the busy world is hushed and the fever of life is over and our work is done. Then in His mercy may He give us a safe lodging and a holy rest and peace at last. Loved and always remembered by Pauline and family. Masses offered.

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THANKSGIVINGS 3 DAY NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. M.C.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Third generation Monumental Sculptors specialising in: • New Headstones • New Inscriptions • Restoration and Cleaning of Monuments • Wall Plaques and Name Plates • Grave Maintenance Service Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723 E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com

or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Will those who think of him today Pray to Our Lady of Knock

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

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The local paper!

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Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

The pressure game Allianz National Football League Division One: Roscommon v Galway at Dr Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Even at this early stage of the competition – and with an eye on matches to come – Sunday’s fixture between Roscommon and Galway could reasonably be labelled a ‘must win’ game for both sides. Roscommon will be hoping to have a number of players back on the panel for this game. Enda Smith will definitely return following his one-match suspension. Brian Stack, Ben O’Carroll and the likes of Ruaidhri Fallon should also be available, which would be a clear boost for the home side. Cathal Heneghan may require another week. Against Mayo last Sunday, Galway looked way off the pace. They struggled badly up front where they missed Damien Comer at full-forward, and indeed were second best all over the field. Liam Silke is back in the Galway fold but has not been named in any panel of 26 so far, while Niall Daly had to go off with an injury after only 19 minutes against Mayo. Galway of course have many excellent performers. John Daly, Kieran Molloy, John Maher, Johnny Heaney, Shane Walsh and Matthew Tierney have all been around

the block several times, but there was a strange lethargy about the Tribesmen last Sunday. They will certainly hope that the injury to Damien Comer is not too serious. Roscommon were poor in the second half against Tyrone. The energy levels seemed to be down and Davy Burke and his selectors will have to work hard on that this week. However, the return of three or four leading players will be a big help. Roscommon will have to improve at midfield, Dylan Ruane and Keith Doyle having struggled against Tyrone. Donie Smith, Cian Connolly and Daire Cregg were in good form up front, but Davy Burke will be hoping for more from Conor Cox, Ciaran Lennon and Diarmuid Murtagh. Hopefully Ben O’Carroll will be back and fit to play. Niall Higgins, Davy Murray, Eoin McCormack and Niall Daly did well in defence, but Brian Stack’s return is clearly desirable. Last Sunday’s second-half display will not suffice this weekend, but I have a feeling that we will see a different Roscommon this time around. Galway were extremely poor against Mayo last Sunday and it remains to be seen if they can be transformed in a week. I may be wrong, but Padraic Joyce appears to have far more problems on his hands at the moment than Davy Burke does. With home advantage, I think Roscommon will win. Prediction: Roscommon.

Enda Smith back as Rossies bid for first league points

Tempers flare between Roscommon and Tyrone players during their Allianz National Football League Division One clash last Sunday in Omagh. Pic: ©INPHO/John McVitty

AROUND THE GROUNDS

GAA results

Seamus Duke

Mayo v Dublin in Castlebar on Saturday at 7.30 pm

Monaghan v Kerry in Clones on Sunday at 1 pm

Derry v Tyrone in Celtic Park on Sunday at 3.45 pm

I have to put my hand up and admit that I was wrong about Mayo last week. They are a better side than I had thought and were very impressive in comfortably defeating Galway. Dublin were caught on the hop by Monaghan. Mayo can win here and inflict a second defeat on Dublin.

Kerry will have been annoyed at their loss to Derry last weekend and will travel to Monaghan determined to win. Without David Clifford on the pitch Kerry are a different team altogether. If Monaghan can show the same resolve that they showed against Dublin they can get at least a draw out of this one.

Game of the day for sure as Mickey Harte welcomes his native Tyrone to Derry. The Ulster champions went to Tralee last weekend and collected both points. Tyrone were too good for Roscommon but this is a step up for them on Sunday. Derry to win.

Allianz NFL Division One Tyrone 0-17 Roscommon 1-11 Lidl Ladies NFL Division Three Roscommon 1-14 Louth 0-6

GAA fixtures

Sunday, February 4th Allianz National Hurling League Division 2A At Athleague: Roscommon v London. 12.30 pm Allianz National Football League Division One At Dr Hyde Park: Roscommon v Galway. 2 pm

Hurlers open Division 2 campaign against London in Athleague Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B: Roscommon v London in Athleague on Sunday at 12.30 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Mickey Joe Egan will be a crucial part of the Roscommon midfield during this season’s National Hurling League campaign. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon hurlers start their new National League season on Sunday in Athleague against London. Playing in Division 2B this year, the aim will be for the team to stay in the division and consolidate in advance of the championship. There is a new management team in charge this season, headed up by Clare native Kevin Sammon. Speaking to

People Sport this week he says that victory in this opening game is vital in terms of the campaign. “I have been very happy with the response we have got from the players. We have a lot of young players involved. At the moment there are 11 U-20s on the panel. We (the management team) are over the U-20s as well, so the plan will be for everyone to train together later in the year”. The new manager says that London will pose a serious threat on Sunday. “London are always tough opponents. They have consolidated in this division over the past few years and they always have very good players. It will be a very tough game.

“Our aim in this campaign is to stay in this division, because the standard will be good. If we can stay in the division we will be moving forward… and we want to get a bit of momentum for the championship. “We have to try and win our home games because we have a tough match on Sunday week away in Tyrone so it’s vital that we get two points in our first match. It’s a very big game for us” he concluded. There is usually a ‘bounce’ when a new manager takes over and the hope will be that Roscommon can get their campaign underway with a win in Athleague this weekend. They should manage that. Prediction: Roscommon.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

SportsPeople

Dublin Racing Festival is this weekend Horses for Courses With no Irish meeting today (Thursday), the week starts on the all-weather tomorrow in Dundalk, away at 3.55 pm. Saturday and Sunday sees the Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown with top class racing both days. Four Grade 1 races on Saturday (away at 1.20 pm) and there are four more on Sunday, with a 12.40 pm start. There is also one Grade 2 each day. Racing on Monday is at Punchestown with the first off at 1.20 pm.

Mullins to clean up? Willie Mullins has entered over 60 horses and provides the favourite in seven of the Grade 1 races at Leopardstown starting on Saturday with the Novice Hurdle, followed by the Juvenile Hurdle, the Arkle Novice Chase, and the Irish Gold Cup. On Sunday, the first Grade 1 race is second on the card, the Novice Chase, followed by the Novice Hurdle, The Dublin Chase, and the Champion Hurdle. He supplies the first three in the betting in the opener on Saturday, Predator’s Gold being favourite, and he trains six of the nine runners.

In the Juvenile Hurdle, Storm Heart leads the betting and he trains eight of the twelve entered. In the Gold Cup, Galopin Des Champs is odds-on to beat Fastorslow. Barry Connell’s Marine National leads the betting at odds-on in the fourth Grade 1, the Arkle, with Mullins training four of his seven opponents. On Sunday in the Novice Chase he has four of the thirteen entries headed by Fact To File and Ballyburn heads fourteen in the betting for the Novice Hurdle. He has another hot favourite in the Dublin Chase where El Fabiolo heads the six entries which also includes Fastorslow, unlikely to run, and in the final Grade 1 State Man is long oddson at 1/4 to beat four horses. WP Mullins looks set to enjoy another weekend but punters beware he may not always win with the favourite.

Racing on TV Terrestrial TV racing coverage starts on Saturday with ITV3 covering five races from Sandown, three from

by Tom Red

Musselburgh and two from Leopardstown. On Sunday ITV are showing five races from Leopardstown and five from Musselburgh. RTE 2 is covering racing from the Dublin Racing Festival on both Saturday and Sunday.

Recent wins At Gowran Park in Kilkenny this day week Henry de Bromhead combined with Rachael Blackmore to win the Thyestes Chase with Ain’t That A Shame at 14/1 and the Galmoy Hurdle went to Willie Mullins and jockey Paul Townend when Monkfish was victorious. Willie Mullins had six winners across the board at three meetings last Saturday. At home he had a treble with Jade De Grugy in the Solerina Hurdle, Western Diego in the maiden hurdle (both ridden by Brian Hayes) and Jody Townend won the bumper on Argento Boy. Mullins enjoyed a Grade 2 double at Cheltenham with Capadano in the Cotswold Chase and Lossiemouth in the Unibet Hurdle, ridden by stable jockey Paul Townend, where his nephew, Emmet, trained Noble Yeats

Galway triumphs in men’s West Coast Challenge Shield

Over the weekend of the 19th-21st January, hundreds of players and fans turned up at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon for the West Coast Challenge darts event. Roscommon Darts wishes to thank the Abbey Hotel for their sponsorship of the event. Our county teams wish to thank our main sponsor, Hannon’s Hotel, as well as our two new additional sponsors ROSS Engineering and Naughton Kitchens, for all their help and support over the year. Here’s a round-up of the men’s shield event over the weekend in question (we’ll have a round-up of the ladies and youths over the coming weeks). Men’s West Coast Shield: A 7-1 quarterfinal win for Galway A over Mayo B set the Tribesmen on their way, before a 7-2

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer) In association with the

Adrian Grealy of the Abbey Hotel presents the West Coast Shield to the Galway men’s team during the West Coast Challenge in the Abbey Hotel recently.

semi-final win over Leitrim A booked their spot in the final. On the other side of the draw, Longford had taken a 7-4 win over Roscommon B

at the quarter-finals stage, before a 7-4 win over Donegal C put them into the final. The final itself was an exciting affair, with Galway A running out 7-3 winners.

Player registration 2024

8-9 pm. Please note: No registration after February 9th.

Roscommon Town Youth Soccer invites returning and new players – girls and boys – to register with us for the 2024 season. Registration will take place on Thursday, February 8th from 7-9 pm and on Friday, February 9th from 7-9 pm at the Roscommon Community Sports Park, Lisnamult, Roscommon Town (F42 KP86). Registration fees for 2024 are as follows: One player is €95, two players are €170 and three or more players are €240. Cash and card accepted. Registration for boys and girls born in 2012 or after (U-7s, U-9s, U-11s, U-12s) will take place from 7-8 pm. Registration for boys and girls born in 2011 or before (U-14s, U-16s, U-18s) will take place from

AGM Our AGM was held recently. As well as being a functional event, it also allowed parents and volunteers to socialise, reflect on the progress made in 2023, and to look ahead to the new youth soccer season.

Every little helps The club is growing and we are always looking for people to assist our work on and off the pitch – coaching, supervision, sponsorship, administration, IT, etc. Give a little and get a lot.

Social media Stay connected to our club on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and through our club website – www.

Rachael Blackmore and Ain’t That A Shame leads Glengouly over the last in the Thyestes.

to win the Cleeve Hurdle. He topped off the day at Doncaster with son Patrick riding Ashroe Diamond to victory in the Grade 2 Yorkshire Rose Mares Hurdle. Wodhooh won the Juvenile Hurdle for Gordon Elliott, ridden by Mark Walsh.

Townend wins for Mulryan At Naas on Sunday, Zarak The Brave and Embassy Gardens, owned by

Rossie Sean Mulryan, both with Paul Townend on board, gave him a training double with son Patrick completing the treble on Jasmin De Vaux in the bumper. At Punchestown on Monday, Townend won on Anotherway, and Billericay Dickie. Sean Mulryan’s colours were carried to victory by Built By Ballymore, showing his liking for heavy going and building on his win at Limerick over the Christmas.

tts u p t r o h S (News from local golf clubs)

BOYLE

Congratulations to Noel McKenna who won the recent 9-hole club competition on 24 pts with Lorcan Egan coming second with 20 pts. The Spring League will be the main event for the month of February, consisting of two-person teams playing a different format each week as set out below: 3rd-9th: Scramble; 10th-16th: Shambles; 17th-25th Better Ball. If your team are unable to complete any round due to other commitments that round can be played between the 3rd25th February. Please submit your team to Lorcan Egan by February 1st. Congratulations to Mark Feehan who had a hole-in-one on the 4th hole

roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie

Online store

Ahead of the 2024 season, get your hands on some Town gear. Play for the Town and wear the Town. Online store now open on the club website.

Roscommon Volunteer Awards Alastair Kerr was nominated for the ‘Spirited Award’ at the recent Roscommon Volunteer Awards evening. Alastair is a parent and coach and also our registration officer. He is a committed and competent member of our club. Keep up the good work Alastair.

while playing our Fourball Better Ball competition recently. Membership fees are now due. A full list of the fees and payment arrangements are available on boylegolfclub. com.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

Flynn’s Bar Spring League Round 1, a 9-hole singles stableford competition, started on Monday and runs until Sunday. Our club captains Ann Cox and Paul Reid have recently selected the interclub captains for 2024. Congratulations to those selected and good luck to all the captains. The lotto jackpot is €2,175. This week’s winner of €30 was Monica Shannon.

SOCCER FIXTURES Saturday, February 3rd Connacht FA Men’s Shield (Round 1) Killtullagh Pioneers v CP Ajax. 2 pm Sunday, February 4th Connacht FA Men’s Cup (Round 3) (Kick-off 2 pm unless stated) Shiven Rovers v Conn Rangers Renmore v Ballaghaderreen FC Ballisodare Utd v Moore Utd Westport Utd B v Castlerea Celtic Skyvalley Rovers v University of Galway Connacht FA Men’s Shield Round 1 (Kick-off 2 pm unless stated) Galway Hibs v Ballymoe FC Moylough ‘79 v Cregmore/Claregalway A St Cuan’s v Oughterard FC Corofin Utd A v St John’s Athletic Glen Celtic v Calry Bohs FC Straide/Foxford Utd v Ballinagare Manor Boyle Celtic v St Patrick’s FC Cam Celtic/Dysart v Manulla FC Cloonfad Utd v Benbulben FC Connacht FA Women’s Shield (Round 3) (Kick-off 2 pm unless stated) Boyle Celtic v Dunmore Town Killala FC v Ballaghaderreen FC Dynamo Blues v Castlerea Celtic RDFL Women’s League Cam Celtic v St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh. 11 am Ballinasloe Town v Kilkerrin. 11 am

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

SportsPeople Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

U-18s girls are Connacht champions Creggs U-18s girls played Sligo RFC in the Connacht Division One final in the newly-named Dexcom Stadium in Galway on Sunday and came away with a hardfought 32-26 victory. Creggs had the better of the first half with an early unconverted try. However, Sligo responded almost immediately to level the scores. Creggs scored two more tries to take a 15-5 lead and looked in control but Sligo scored a converted try with the last play of the first half, bringing the score to 15-12. In the second half Sligo got the next score to take a 19-15 lead but Creggs responded with two tries without reply to lead 25-19 with seven minutes to go. Creggs now knew victory was close and with one minute to go they scored another converted try, and while Sligo scored again before the final whistle, Creggs hung on to win 32-26. Creggs Firsts defeat Westport: Creggs’ first team took on Westport in the J1A league at home last Saturday night. This was their first outing for a number of weeks and they came out with all guns blazing to win the game impressively on a scoreline of 41-19. On the attack from the start, Creggs scored their first try after just five minutes and pushed on from there to dominate the majority of the first half. Some wonderful team scores

The Creggs U-18s girls team and management pictured after winning the Division One Connacht final last Sunday against Sligo. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

meant that Creggs went in 24-5 to the good at half-time. Two more tries after half-time meant that Creggs were up 34-5 with ten minutes to go but in the 70th minute Westport scored a converted try to put the score at 34-12. From the kick-off Creggs attacked and, after nine phases, scored their sixth try, eventually going on to win 41-19. Creggs Seconds: Creggs seconds came up just short against table-toppers Galwegians in last Sunday’s closely contested J1C league game on Creggs’ 4G pitch, which finished 17-13 in favour of Galwegians. In a frantic final quarter, in which Creggs had a number of excellent scoring opportunities, Galwegians held firm to preserve their unbeaten record. Creggs now play away to Glenina next Sunday.

Boys U-16s: Creggs boys U-16s played in the Connacht Division One league final against Buccaneers in Ballinasloe on Saturday afternoon. A closely contested game ended in a draw, 22-22. Now both teams will have to wait to see when they will replay the final. Boys U-14s: Creggs played Ballinasloe in the U-14 Boys Division One league final at Dubarry Park on Sunday. A closely contested game finished 17-12 in favour of Ballinasloe. Girls U-14s: A great effort on Saturday morning from Creggs Girls U-14s who played away against Ballinasloe RFC. Nine girls had never played a full game before and this was a big challenge but they did very well. Boys U-17s: Creggs U-17s hosted Loughrea in a friendly to prepare for the upcoming

cup tournament. The game finished 15-8 to Loughrea but it was a valuable game for Creggs and shows what is required going into the cup campaign. Creggs Senior Ladies: Well done to Creggs senior women who played Tuam/Oughterard. A game against the recent All-Ireland Junior finalists was always going to be a hard task, but thanks to Tuam/Oughterard for a sporting game. Mini Section: Our minis couldn’t travel to Ballinasloe as one of their pitches was in poor condition. So instead they went training in Creggs at 9 am! Lotto: The club jackpot wasn’t won and now lies at €11,900. The lucky dip winner was Karyn Grogan. Please join to support our busy club at www.creggsrugby.ie or via any committee member.

Padraig O’Farrell from Creggs during a line-out in the U-16s boys final against Buccaneers last Saturday. Pic: Steve Fahey

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

BUCCANEERS RFC

Buccs narrowly lose to Naas Buccaneers suffered yet another agonising Energia AllIreland Division 1B League defeat when going down narrowly to Naas (21-15) at a well attended Dubarry Park on Saturday. The Pirates crew have a brief break ahead of their next fixture away to Old Wesley as they prepare for the crucial final third of the season. Buccaneers Seconds: Buccaneers Seconds showed great character in really testing weather conditions to defeat their Sligo counterparts 17-6 in the Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior Cup at windswept Hamilton Park, Strandhill, on Sunday. Buccaneers’ reward is a third successive away cup

fixture, this time a short hop for a derby at Ballinasloe! Buccaneers U-20s: St Mary’s College held on to defeat Buccaneers by a single point (2221) in a breeze-influenced JP Fanagan Leinster U-20 Premier League game at Templeville Road on Sunday. The result means that St Mary’s move up to three points behind the Pirates on the league table with a game in hand. U-17s capture league title: Although conceding height and weight in virtually every position, Buccaneers U-17s put in a tremendous display to overcome Corinthians 15-10 in a thrilling Connacht League final played at Creggs on Sunday. Buccaneers U-16s: Played

in Ballinasloe RFC on Saturday between Buccaneers and Creggs, the Connacht U-16s league final was a highly entertaining game which ended with honours even at 22-22. Fixtures: Buccaneers U-20s are home to Greystones in the JP Fanagan Leinster League next Sunday when the action kicks off at 3 pm. Buccaneers Seconds complete their Connacht Junior 1B League campaign with a tricky away fixture against Ballyhaunis on Sunday. Buccaneers U-16s drew with Creggs in the Connacht League final last Sunday and it is likely that the replay will take place in Ballinasloe on Sunday next. Check our website for update.

Buccaneers captain Kyle Byrne is presented with the Connacht U-17 League trophy by Jim Staunton after his side’s win over Corinthians last Sunday.

Louth and clear: Rossies maintain positive start Roscommon’s good start to the new season in the Lidl Ladies National Football League Division Three continued at Kiltoom last Sunday when they defeated Louth by 1-14 to 0-6. It was a dominant performance from Ollie Lennon’s team with Laura Fleming, Aisling Feely, Caoimhe Cregg and Ellen Irwin outstanding for the home side. Laura Fleming scored a well-taken goal early on and that helped Roscommon into a 1-5 to 0-3 lead at the break. Roscommon continued to dominate after half-time, and with Fleming and Feely scoring 1-9 between them, it was a comfortable win for Ollie Lennon’s side. Speaking to People Sport this week, Roscommon manager Ollie Lennon says that he is very happy with the team’s start to the season. “The two wins are great (as a start) and I am delighted for the players. It gives us a bit of momentum for the season ahead”. Lennon says that there are no injuries in the camp and the team are looking forward to the rest of the campaign. “Apart from a couple of long-term injuries, everyone is fine and training away. We have a tough game up next against Clare who were in the All-Ireland intermediate final last year. We are looking forward to the rest of the season now” he concluded. Roscommon: Helena Cummins; Aine McGrath, Ellen Irwin, Aisling McAuliffe; Rachel Fitzmaurice, Saoirse Wynne, Caoimhe Cregg; Lisa O’Rourke, Kate Nolan (0-2); Laura Fleming (1-3), Lauren Shanagher, Sinead Farrell; Aisling Hanly (0-1), Aisling Feeley (0-6), Niamh Feeney. Subs: Ella Thompson for Farrell, Judy McDermott for L Shanagher, Aisling Shanagher (0-1) for Nolan, Aimee O’Connor for Hanly, Aoife Gavin (0-1) for Nolan, Anna McGrath for McAuliffe, Shauna Fleming for Fitzmaurice, Erin Hagan for Aine McGrath. *Roscommon face a tough challenge in their next game as they play Clare, All-Ireland intermediate finalists from last year, on Sunday, 11th of February at a Clare venue.

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

SportsPeople

Burke: ‘We have to get Hyde rocking on Sunday’ < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager Davy Burke was a frustrated figure as he faced the media after Sunday’s defeat to Tyrone. He began his analysis by agreeing that Roscommon’s second-half display was not up to scratch on the day. “We were very poor in the second half. We were cutting through them at will in the first half but we didn’t do enough damage when we were on top. It was a very tame effort in the second half”. Burke reasoned that the red card issued to Tyrone’s Conn Kilpatrick early in the second half

affected the Roscommon performance. “We didn’t cope well with their red card at all, even though we had an extra man, which is unusual. We will have to work on that”. Burke was annoyed at the decision not to allow Cian Connolly’s late ‘goal’. “It wasn’t a square ball. I watched it there four times on TG4. Robbie Dolan has the ball in his hands outside the square, he passes to Cian who is also outside the square and he palms it to the net. Martin McNally (the referee) walks away happy enough only to be called back by the umpires. All the work that goes into it and we are fighting for a point in Omagh… we have no point now”. He ended his exchange with the media by

SPORTS DESK Paul Healy

The leaving of Liverpool The unexpected news that Jurgen Klopp will be leaving the Liverpool hot seat at the end of this season is the week’s big soccer story. His imminent departure will be a big blow to the Premier League (I imagine they are distraught at Sky Sports). Klopp is revered by Liverpool fans, and widely respected across football, but also a somewhat divisive figure for many neutrals (more on that below). It seems only fair to firstly address the news from a Liverpool perspective. There has been much comment (goading?) on social media about Klopp’s trophy haul at Anfield paling in comparison to that of Guardiola at Manchester City, or Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. Klopp cannot be mentioned in the same breath as Ferguson – not even close – but his achievements at Liverpool are still very substantial. He transformed the club’s fortunes. Liverpool were in a long valley period when Klopp took over. It was Klopp who finally ended the club’s 30-year wait for a league title, and he also managed the team to Champions League glory (along with other cup successes). Last season was an anomaly, but this season Liverpool are flying, currently credibly chasing four trophies. Restoring Liverpool as challengers for the big prizes is the evidence of the success of the Klopp era. The less tangible but phenomenally important legacy of his dynamic tenure at Anfield has been the sense of positivity he has instilled.

For example, the legendary atmosphere of midweek European football nights of old has effectively returned. Almost all the credit for this can go to Klopp, reflecting as it does his passion and personality. He has developed a really special relationship with the supporters, and – almost through sheer force of personality – has hauled Liverpool back towards the top table. Along the way, Klopp often tested the patience of neutrals (this columnist included) with his histrionics on the touchline, not to mention some unnecessarily testy interviews with the media. There were times when he really was insufferable! But maybe that approach was what was required to give the ‘Klopp project’ its momentum, the key to making the emotional bond with fans as strong as it is. The reality is that supporters of any club would warm to him if he was their manager. I’d also acknowledge that Klopp’s brand of football – all-action, attacking, pressing, high-intensity – was very easy on the eye. Love him or loathe him, most readers will agree that his departure will make English football duller. Fans of the Premier League – including neutrals such as this columnist (but possibly not including match officials) – will certainly miss Jurgen Klopp.

Cunningham steps in, Stack steps out…

If it was a secret, we’d be reaching for that ever-reliable cliché and describing it as one of the ‘worst kept’ of recent

looking ahead to this Sunday’s clash against Galway in Dr Hyde Park and the hope that some of the St Brigid’s contingent will be back in the fold. “You have to win your home games. Galway is a big game and we have to get the Hyde rocking next Sunday. There are 12 players not here today and ten of them will be starting in the championship. “But that’s no excuse, we should have got something out of that game today. We were not good enough, simple as that. With regard to the St Brigid’s lads, I hope I have a few missed calls when I go home – I’ll put it to you like that!”

times – but I guess it wasn’t really a secret! In any event, the high profile management change that had been widely speculated about in local GAA circles came to pass – quickly, it must be said – last week. Out stepped Jerome Stack as manager of St Brigid’s, and in stepped Anthony Cunningham. It had been known over recent months that this change was on the cards. Of course few could have foreseen the very successful odyssey St Brigid’s would experience over recent months. An unlucky Boyle ran them very close in the Roscommon county final, but St Brigid’s were deserved champions. They then not alone conquered Connacht, but also strutted into the All-Ireland final. At Croke Park, they won even more new admirers, gracing the great stadium and coming so close to landing the All-Ireland title. Last Thursday, just four days after that emotional rollercoaster at HQ, came confirmation that Jerome Stack was stepping down as manager of St Brigid’s. The club’s longerthan-expected interest in the championship had come to an end, and the parting of the ways was now confirmed. Quite apart from his success with the senior team on the pitch, Stack was notably modest, gracious and dignified in his role off-field (as manifested during media interviews). His services will now be much sought after, given his management pedigree. In a statement, St Brigid’s thanked Stack for bringing them on a “brilliant” journey, adding that the players will benefit greatly in the future from Jerome’s time with the club, and specifically because of his “driven and meticulous work ethic”. Within a matter of hours (Friday morning) of the Kerry native’s departure, St Brigid’s had confirmed the return of Anthony Cunningham to the hot seat. The Galway man has a distinguished management CV, at both club and county level. He managed St Brigid’s to Roscommon and Connacht

“You have to win your home games. Galway is a big game and we have to get the Hyde rocking next Sunday”. Roscommon manager Davy Burke. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

on behalf of our thousands of readers, ‘Sports Desk’ sends happy 100th birthday wishes to Charlie O’Leary!

Magic of the cup!

The Pope meets Charlie O’Leary during the 1990 World Cup! Charlie celebrates his 100th birthday today. Photo courtesy of the Irish Sun

success in 2006, and is a former manager of both the Galway senior hurling team and the Roscommon senior footballers. Anthony will be joined by a management team made up of Eoin Mooney, James Martin and Niall Kelly. Sport can be tough. Jerome Stack’s tenure as manager of St Brigid’s was so close to being defined by the ultimate glory one can experience in the club game. But he can leave with pride in what was achieved this past season, and in the knowledge that a very talented squad is now at the disposal of his successor.

Charlie’s big day Remember that time the Pope got to have his photo taken with Charlie O’Leary?

Okay, maybe it was the other way around, but while Charlie may not have had quite the worldwide profile of Pope John Paul 11 at the time of the 1990 World Cup, the man fondly known as ‘the little fella’ was a very popular figure in his own right. Indeed he became a national treasure. Charlie was kitman with the Republic of Ireland during the Jack Charlton era (and also during Mick McCarthy’s first term). The true-blue Dub was loved by players, management and fans, and that photograph of him standing beside Pope John Paul 11 became an enduring image of Ireland’s historic Italia ’90 adventure. Today, (Thursday) the irrepressible Charlie celebrates a very special birthday. So,

A (very) short history of the FA Cup: It was great once upon a time – the glamour and romance of English football rolled into one competition, where paupers could aspire to taking on kings on an even footing. Then, as Premier League survival became financially critical, that and the lure of possible European football, the FA Cup became much less important. Nowadays, it’s somewhere in between (but there is no denying that its status remains much lower than in its heyday). What the FA Cup thrives on is the giant-killer factor, those special days when a lower league team causes a big upset (and, as the media loves to put it, ‘reminds’ us all of the ‘magic of the cup’). Last Saturday was one such day. Ipswich Town, second in the Championship and pushing for promotion to the Premier League, were drawn at home to Maidstone, a non-league team operating in the sixth-tier National League South. Sensationally, Maidstone won 2-1. The FA and BBC must have been thrilled that this drama unfolded in BBC One’s live game. Maidstone’s win must rank as one of the greatest giant-killing performances in the history of the FA Cup. They will now play either Sheffield Wednesday or Coventry City (away) for a place in the quarter-finals. In Sunday’s televised game, Manchester United avoided a similar fate to Ipswich, defeating League 2 side Newport United 4-2 after the fourth tier club had come back from 2-0 down to draw level at 2-2. The FA Cup is alive – and reasonably well!

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

SportsPeople

All eyes on Galway game after tame Tyrone trip

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Early pressure for points after round one results Allianz National Football League Division One Tyrone 0-17 Roscommon 1-11 < SEAMUS DUKE

A second-half fade-out by Roscommon saw 14-man Tyrone sweep past them and on to victory in this opening round Allianz National Football League game played at Healy Park in Omagh last Sunday. A ‘goal’ by Cian Connolly in the final minute of injury-time, which was controversially ruled out for a ‘square ball’, would have brought the Rossies to within a point of Tyrone with some time still remaining, but in truth Roscommon didn’t deserve to get anything from the game on the overall balance of play. The opening half was a splendid contest. Despite playing the all-too familiar possession game, both sides were committed to attack, and there were some super scores. Diarmuid Murtagh – captain for the day – opened the scoring for Roscommon in the 2nd minute with a converted free, but the

home side hit back with excellent points from play from defenders Padraig Hampsey and Michael McKiernan, before Niall Daly’s long-range effort levelled the scores in the 10th minute. Two almost identical scores followed, Ciaran Daly fisting over a long delivery from Tyrone, and less than a minute later Ciaran Lennon doing the exact same thing for the visitors at the other end. Darragh Canavan, who was to play a huge role in the match, scored his first point from play in the 14th minute. A minute later Roscommon were ahead after a super team goal. Daire Cregg placed Donie Smith with an inch-perfect pass and the Boyle man shot low and hard past Niall Morgan to open up a twopoint lead. Roscommon maintained that advantage until the 28th minute. Daire Cregg, Cian Connolly, Niall Higgins and Donie Smith were doing well, although the midfield area was a problem for Roscommon as Conn Kilpatrick and Brian Kennedy were on top in that sector. Tyrone then brought Darragh Canavan further out the field and the home side were transformed after that

as he became the game’s dominant personality for the remainder of the contest. The Ulster side kicked the final three points of the half to go in leading by one (0-10 to 1-6) at the break. There were further problems for Roscommon as Dylan Ruane picked up a needless black card in the final minute of the first half after a late tackle on Darragh Canavan. It looked like Roscommon had been handed a major boost four minutes into the second period when Tyrone midfielder Conn Kilpatrick was shown a red card by referee Martin McNally for his challenge on Davy Murray, meaning Tyrone were down a man for the rest of the game. The red card seemed to galvanise the home side and they took over completely, with Roscommon’s challenge all but fading away. Darragh Canavan was majestic, kicking five points in the third quarter as Tyrone powered on. Niall Morgan, Brian Kennedy and Peter Harte were also prominent for the Red Hand as they dominated. With the game all but over, Roscommon came with a late burst. On his debut, sub James Fitzpatrick kicked an excellent point in

Roscommon’s Eoin McCormack in action against Tyrone’s Seanie O’Donnell during Sunday’s Allianz National Football League Division One match in Omagh. Pic: ©INPHO/John McVitty

the final minute. Canavan added his 8th point of the day in the first minute of injury-time. Then came that controversial non-goal in the 63rd minute, Cian Connolly’s ‘score’ ruled out after the

referee consulted with the umpires. Diarmuid Murtagh converted a late free but it wasn’t enough as Roscommon ran out of time. That poor second-half display will be a worry

to Davy Burke, although it must be noted that Roscommon were without Enda Smith, Brian Stack, Ben O’Carroll and Cathal Heneghan, to name just four vital absentees (of many).

This Sunday’s match against old rivals Galway is now particularly crucial. Two points at Dr Hyde Park will be required if Roscommon are not to face an uphill struggle in the top division this year.

Stat Attack Wides: Tyrone 8 (4, first half ); Roscommon 8 (4, first half ) Red cards: Tyrone 1 (Conn Kilpatrick, 39); Roscommon 0 Black cards: Tyrone 0; Roscommon 1 (Dylan Ruane 35) Yellow cards: Tyrone 2 (Michael McKiernan, Peter Harte); Roscommon 0 Attendance: Approx. 4,745 Man of the Match: Darragh Canavan (Tyrone)

Teams & scorers

Roscommon’s Donie Smith scores his side’s goal during Sunday’s Allianz National Football League Division One match against Tyrone in Omagh. Pic: ©INPHO/John McVitty

Tyrone: Niall Morgan; Conall Devlin; Padraig Hampsey (0-1), Aidan Clarke; Cormac Quinn, Michael McKernan (0-1), Tarlach Quinn; Brian Kennedy, Conn Kilpatrick; Niall Devlin (0-2), Peter Harte, Ben Cullen (0-1); Seanie O’Donnell (0-1, mark), Darragh Canavan (0-8, 2 frees), Ciaran Daly (0-3). Subs: Ruari Canavan for Devlin (55), David Mulgrew for C Quinn (63), James Donaghy for Cullen (74).

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; David Murray, Evan Flynn (0-1), Niall Higgins; Niall Daly (0-1), Colin Walsh, Eoin McCormack; Keith Doyle, Dylan Ruane; Cian Connolly (0-1), Donie Smith (1-0), Daire Cregg; D Murtagh (0-6, 4 frees), Ciaran Lennon (0-1), Conor Cox. Subs: Robbie Dolan for Higgins (49), Luke Glennon for Flynn (51), Adam McDermott for Lennon (55), Andy Glennon for Cox (59), James Fitzpatrick (0-1) for Walsh (66). Referee: Martin McNally (Monaghan).

Roscommon People Friday 02 February 2024

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COMMERCIAL & PASSENGER RANGE 2009 Toyota Landcruiser 3.0 LWB €13,500 202 VW T Cross 1.0 style Auto €28,950 MITSUBISHI RANGE 2011 Toyota Hi-Lux 3.0 D4D Kombi Canopy €19,500 192 VW T Cross 1.6 TDI €22,500 182 Toyota RAV 4 2.0 D4D Luna Sp €24,500 172 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB Kombi (5 Seater) Auto €23,170 + VAT 152 Toyota RAV 4 2.2 D4D Luna 4X4 €18,500 VW T-ROC RANGE 2008 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 SWB A/T €10,500 152 Toyota RAV 4 2.0 Sal 2WD €13,500 232 VW T Roc 2.0 TDI €39,500 2007 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 SWB €8,500 171 Toyota Verso 1.6 DSl 7 Seater €19,500 231 VW T Roc 2.0 TDI €34,500 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 SWB €6,500 141 Toyota Proace 2.2 DSL LWB €7,500 231 VW T Roc 1.0 €32,500 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 SWB A/T €4,500 171 Toyota Yaris 1.0 5 DR Luna €15,000 222 VW T Roc 1.0 €29,500 172 Mitsubishi L200 DID Kombi 5 Seater €22,500 211 VW T Roc 2.0 TDI 150BHP Sports €35,500 141 Mitsubishi L200 DID Kombi 5 Seater €12,500 RENAULT & DACIA RANGE 211 VW T Roc 2.0 TDI 150 Sports A/T €38,500 131 Mitsubishi ASX 1.8DSL 4X4 €8,500 181 Renault Trafic Business €16,500 201 VW T Roc 1.6 TSI €28,500 151 Mitsubishi Outlander 4 x 4 Comm €13,500 161 Renault Trafic SL 27 €12,500 192 VW T Roc 1.0 5DR €24,500 221 Dacia Sandera 1.5 Stepway Auto €21,000 191 VW T Roc 1.6 TDI €25,500 VOLKSWAGEN RANGE 201 Dacia Duster DSl €19,500 181 VW T Roc 1.0 5DR €22,500 181 VW Amarok 3.0 V6 Automatic €31,500 + VAT 151 Dacia Duster 1.5DSL €9,500 171 VW Amarok 2.0 TDI H/L 4X4 €25,500 + VAT VW 7 SEATER RANGE 152 VW Amarok 2.0 TDI 4X4 €27,500 FORD RANGE 182 Vw Sharan 2.0TDI C/L A/T 7 Seater €33,500 231 VW Shuttle 9 Seater Bus €94,500 202 Ford Transit 350LWB €24,500 181 VW Sharan 2.0TDI C/L 7 Seater €29,500 172 VW Caravelle 2.0 TDI Automatic 7 Seater €52,500 171 Ford Transit SWB €12,500 161 VW Sharan 2.0TDI 7 Seater €24,500 231 VW Multivan PHEW Hybrid €65,500 171 Ford Kuga 1.5 DSL 5 Seater Comm €16,500 2008 VW Sharan 2.0TDI 7 Seater €6,500 211 VW Touareg V6 Extra Seater ( Leather) €58,000 161 Ford Transit 350 LWB €15,500 + VAT 162 VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater €16,500 182 VW Touareg 3.0 TDI V6 R/L Commercial 5 Seater €45,500 152 Ford Transit SWB €9,500 2012 VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater €7,500 162 VW Touareg 3.0 TDI V6 R/L Commercial 5 Seater €25,500 + VAT 141 Ford Ranger 2.2 DSL €16,500 2006 VW Touareg TDI Commercial €7,500 2010 Ford Ranger 2.5 DSL €8,500 + VAT VW TIGUAN RANGE 191 VW Golf TDI Van €13,500 + VAT 2005 Ford Ranger 2.5DSL €7,500 232 VW Tiguan R/L 1.4TSI 245 BHP Hybrid €57,500 221 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150HP High Line LWB A/T €36,500 + VAT 232 VW Tiguan Elegance 2.0TDI 150BHP A/T 7 Seater €64,500 221 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI 150HP SWB €34,500 + VAT KIA RANGE 232 VW Tiguan RL 2.0TDI 150BHP ( Choice) €55,500 202 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI H/L Automatic 4X4 €36,500 221 Kia Sportage K4 €36,500 232 VW Tiguan Life 2.0TDI 150BHP €47,500 201 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI H/L 150HP LWB €28,500 + VAT 231 Kia R10 €19,500 231 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP Allspace €52,500 192 VW Transporter T/L LWB €26,500 + VAT 211 Kia Sportage K3 €30,500 231 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Life Model ( White) €45,500 181 VW Transporter 150 SWB €21,000 + VAT 162 Kia Sportage 1.7DSL €13,500 231 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP R/L A/T 7 Seater €58,500 181 VW Transporter 102 LWB €22,500 + VAT 231 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP A/T Allspace €55,000 171 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150 LWB H/L Automatic €24,500 ISUZU RANGE 212 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP C/L 7 seater €42,500 171 D-Max DSL Crew Cab €19,500 + VAT 212 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP R/L Extras €42,000 VW CRAFTER RANGE 2011 D-Max Dsl Crew Cab €8,500 211 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP C/L Allspace €45,500 232 VW Crafter 3.5 Ton 140 BHPLWB €43,500 + VAT 211 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP R/L Extras €43,500 232 VW Crafter 140 BHP MWB €36,600 + VAT VW POLO RANGE 211 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Life Model €39,500 201 VW Crafter 140 BHP MWB H/R €26,500 + VAT 231 VW Polo Life ( Choice) €24,500 202 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP C/L €37,500 201 VW Crafter 140 BHP LWB H/R €28,500 + VAT 231 VW Polo 1.0 R/L ( Choice) €21,950 201 VW Tigaun 2.0TDI 150BHP H/L €39,500 191 VW Crafter 177 BHP LWB T/L Fridge Freezer €22,500 + VAT 222 VW Polo 1.0 Life €22,500 201 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP C/L €35,000 191 VW Crafter 140 BHP MWB H/R T/L €25,000 + VAT 211 VW Polo 1.0 C/L Auto ( Choice) €22,500 192 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP H/L €33,500 181 VW Crafter 140 BHP MWB H/R €20,750 + VAT 201 VW Polo 1.0 T/L €18,500 191 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP 4X4 €32,500 171 VW Crafter 140 BHP LWB €15,000 + VAT 182 VW Polo 1.0 T/L €16,500 191 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP €29,500 162 VW Crafter 140 BHP MWB €13,414 + VAT 181 VW Polo 1.0 T/L €17,000 181 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP €27,500 151 VW Crafter 140 BHP MWB €11,000 + VAT 201 VW Polo 1.4 TDI 5 DR €21,000 172 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP €24,000 2009 VW Crafter 5 Ton LWB H/R €7,800 + VAT 152 VW Polo 1.0 5DR €11,500 171 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP €22,500 131 VW Polo 1.0 5DR €8,500 161 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP €19,500 VW CADDY RANGE 2010 VW Polo 1.0 5DR ( White) €6,500 162 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150BHP €21,000 212 VW Caddy Maxi 2.0 TDI 102HP Extras (23KM) €25,500 152 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI L/L €18,500 211 VW Caddy Cargo 2.0 TDI 102BHP Extras €22,500 VW JETTA RANGE 132 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI TFN €12,500 202 VW Caddy Cargo 2.0 TDI 102BHP €18,500 181 VW Jetta 2.0 TDI H/L ( Choice) €18,500 201 VW Caddy TDI €15,000 + VAT 161 VW Jettta 2.0 TDI H/L Auto €16,500 VW PASSAT RANGE 192 VW Caddy TDI €13,500 + VAT 161 VW Jetta 2.0 TDI C/L €15,000 222 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP R/L 171 VW Caddy 2.0 TDI 150BHP €13,500 + VAT 151 VW Jetta 2.0 TDI H/L €13,500 “0” Mileage Lapaz Blue €45,500 161 VW Caddy 2.0 TDI 150BHP €12,500 141 VW Jetta 1.6 TDI C/L €9,500 221 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP Business €35,500 131 VW Caddy 1.6 TDI €7,500 2008 VW Jetta 1.9 TDI ( Tested) €3,000 211 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP Elegance €32,500 211 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP Business A/T ( 10KM) €33,500 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN 4X4 RANGE VW TIAGO RANGE 201 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP R/L Extras €32,500 201 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150 RL 4X4 Extras €42,500 231 VW Tiago 1.0 A/T €31,000 201 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP Business €29,500 191 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150 HL 4X4 Automatic €38,500 231 VW Tiago 1.0 €29,500 191 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP H/L €27,500 162 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150 H/L 4X4 Sports €22,500 222 VW Tiago 1.0 €24,500 191 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP C/L €24,500 181 VW T-Roc 2.0TDI 150HP Sport 4X4 Leather €32,500 182 VW Passat 1.6 H/L €22,500 VW T - CROSS RANGE 181 VW Passat 1.6TDI €19,500 TOYOTA RANGE 231 VW T Cross 1.0 Auto €29,500 171 VW Passat 1.6TDI €15,500 152 Toyota Hi -Lux 3.0 D4D Kombi €21,500 231 VW T Cross 1.0 €27,500 161 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €15,000 2011 Toyota Hi-Lux 2.5 DSL Kombi ( 5 Seater) €12,500 211 VW T Cross 1.0 5DR €25,500 151 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €13,500

SALES TEAM - Al: 086 2449645 Niall: 087 6385033 Damien: 087 2368841 Martin: 086 2056597 Alan: 087 4153872

AL HAYES TUAM Farrannamartin, Tuam, Co. Galway, H54 XE18 Telephone: 0 932 6411

AL HAYES ENNIS Gort Road, Dulick, Ennis, Co. Clare, V95 HPF9 Telephone: 065 682 2400

AL HAYES PORTUMNA St Brendan’s Street, Portumna, Co. Galway, H53 K859 Telephone: 090 974 2200