03 June 2022 Roscommon People

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03 June 2022

The Local Paper

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Lisa O’Rourke, newly-crowned world boxing champion, acknowledges the applause of supporters after being introduced to the crowd at half-time in Sunday’s Connacht final. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell.

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090 647 8433 • www.bccsolicitors.ie * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

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090 6478433 8433 090 647 Contact our Property Department in www.bccsolicitors.ie 090 Cunningham 647 8433 www.bccsolicitors.ie Byrne Carolan Solicitors

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for advice on property sales and purchases www.bccsolicitors.ie * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

* In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or647 other charges as a 090 8433 percentage or proportion of any award www.bccsolicitors.ie or settlement

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

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AT H L O N E Ι M O AT E L A N E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LWAY In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate DOLORES*GACQUIN – SOLICITOR fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie any award or settlement

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Buying awww.bccsolicitors.ie property at Auction

I am interested in buying a house which will be sold by public auction shortly. Are there any steps I should take before I go to the auction to bid for this property?

There are a number of important issues to consider before you purchase a property at public auction.

Once your bid is accepted you are then legally bound to purchase the property.

The Latin term “Caveat Emptor” meaning “let the buyer beware” is particularly relevant when buying a property at public auction. The seller of a property is under no obligation to disclose defects attaching to a property so it is paramount that a purchaser would satisfy himself of the condition of the property before purchasing. The purchaser should ensure that all relevant checks and surveys e.g. a structural survey, are carried out by a qualified professional before bidding on any property at public auction.

You should also engage a solicitor to establish that there are no legal or title problems affecting the property. Your solicitor will raise all necessary title queries on your behalf with solicitors for the vendor before the auction and will advise you accordingly. It is important to be aware of any potential title issue as this will obviously impact on your ability to sell the property in the future.

If you are not a cash purchaser, it is essential that you have the finance arranged to assist you in completing the purchase before the auction takes place.

If you are the highest bidder (after the reserve price is met) on the day of the auction the property will be sold to you. You will be asked to immediately sign the contracts for sale and you will be obliged to pay a 10% deposit. You will be asked to give one part contract for sale to your solicitor and the auctioneer will send the other part contract for sale to the seller’s solicitor. The contract for sale will usually specify a date for completion of the sale when the balance monies must be paid and you will receive the keys.

e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

All the fun of Connacht final day…

SUNDAY MORNING The traffic’s not that bad…

Yes, ‘cos I suggested we head off early!

Anyways, you were kind of embarrassing back there at the Service Station… for starters, it took you ages to get our refreshments…

It’s a high pressure environment!

HIGH PRESSURE?!

Well…the coffee/tea self-service can be stressful! It was just now…where’s the cup, where’s the tea…what type of tea is that…whichACCIDENT button for coffee…will it stop CYCLING pouring in time, oh, is that the hot water… where’s the little stick for stirring it…meanIf you werethere involved cyclingtrucker behind me while, wasinaa giant and accident I thoughtcontact he might pick me up with one Byrne Carolan hand any minute…

Cunningham When we gotSolicitors talking to that nice couple from Strokestown, you were REALLY embarrassing…

WHAT? The man said ‘Who do you think will win? Who’s getting your verdict?’

Yeah?

And you said ‘Johnny Depp’! SO embarrassing!

It was a joke!

Then, when I went to buy a paper, and I looked back momentarily, you had fallen off your seat in the deli!

Yeah well that’s ‘cos the giant trucker sat down beside me!

So you just shrunk into the ground like a cartoon character?

Well no, he kind of unbalanced the seat… and I toppled over.

Did you tell him to be more careful?

Eh…I thanked him, said I needed to be more alert.

Oh dear!

Actually, he was a lovely man. I had a chat

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

with him too…

Galway or Roscommon?

Huh? Who is he supporting?

Oh he has no interest in Connacht football…we talked about Amber Heard and Johnny Depp.

Oh dear…

(At this point they paused to check, for the ninth time, that the QR Code for their tickets was still easily accessible on their respective mobile phones) SUNDAY AFTERNOON It’s left up here…

Eh…I think it’s right…

AT FULL-TIME… Ah well, at least we finished strongly.

Yeah, if we play a bit more direct, there’s lots of goals in this team!

Fair play to Galway!

Worthy champions…but we’re still in it.

Our lads gave it everything. Here’s to the next day!

Now let’s go and have a pint back in Roscommon – and we can all agree that we are barstool experts!

As ever!

I mean, on a day like today, there are so many questions…

Agreed! Substitutions, tactics…

NO! For starters…why did you get me herbal tea when I asked for an Americano?

Oh sorry…that trucker…he was closing in, I must have panicked!

Good news for Athlone and environs this week with an announcement by Ericssons’ management that the company plans to create 250 new jobs over the coming three years.

What we didn’t like…

Roscommon’s defeat in Sunday’s Connacht final was a setback for the team and supporters, but far from a surprising one, given that Galway were favourites to win. Congratulations to Galway. For Roscommon, it’s onwards and upwards to the qualifiers.

What PEOPLE are talking about

A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

20 MINUTES IN… We’re starting to struggle…

I know!

A few bad wides…

Yeah…Galway are more direct.

We’re like those queues at Dublin Airport…too slow!

Yeah, like a lot of people at the airport, I’ve a feeling we might not reach the heights today!

What we liked…

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

It’s behind those houses…I think…

No, it’s right up there, then left…

That’s the thing about the pitch in Salthill…it’s so easy to find!

Let’s just follow those supporters there…in the Roscommon jerseys…

What if they’re going to the beach, not the game?

Don’t be silly! Quick, follow them! Yes, there’s the stadium!

PIC OF THE WEEK: Primrose and blue…a young fan pictured at the Connacht final on Sunday.

Photo: Mick McCormack

Sunday’s chronic delays at Dublin Airport; Last weekend’s GAA action; The Champions League final; The Heineken Champions Cup final; The GAA Catfish tale; Love Island; Inflation…

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

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It is understood that electrical works are set to commence at the former Cuisle Centre in Donamon in the coming weeks to ensure the facility can be used to accommodate Ukrainian refugees in the long-term.

The cost of the required works had previously been mooted as the reason the Cuisle Holiday Centre was closed by the

Irish Wheelchair Association in 2019. It is believed those refuges currently at the centre will remain there while works are being carried out.

Roscommon County Council had not responded to queries as the Roscommon People was going to press yesterday evening.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

THIS WEEK...On The Political Beat will have a knock-on effect on the tourism sector.

“The price of renting a car at an Irish airport has arrived at the point where this is really going to hurt how competitive our tourism industry can be,” Fitzmaurice said.

“In particular, as prices remain out of control and tourists are less likely to rent a car, the west of Ireland will see a big hit in our tourist figures as people will no longer find it feasible to rent a car to travel west from airports in Dublin and Cork.

“I have had a constituent come to me and tell me they went to eight different companies for a fourday car rental and were quoted €930. To rent the same car in Belfast would have been £200.

“Car rentals play an important part in the tourist industry and we simply need to become more competitive when compared to our European counterparts,” Deputy Fitzmaurice concluded.

This week, local public representatives express their concerns for tourism, welcome jobs announcements, urge businesses to avail of supports, and discuss post office funding…

Funding welcomed for post office network

Fine Gael public representatives have been quick to welcome the €30 million funding announced this week by Minister Hildegarde Naughton for the post office network.

Minister of State Frank Feighan said the funding, which will provide a one-off intervention of €10 million per year from 2023 to 2025, will support the existing network of approximately 900 post offices.

“I have met with local postmasters across the counties I represent, who have consistently pointed out their concerns about the viability of their offices going forward,” he said.

“My understanding is that funding will be disbursed to ensure a balance between providing vital financial support and certainty, while at the same time maintaining a commercial focus”.

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said post offices were at the heart of many communities and the funding would enable new initiatives to be introduced.

“The post office brings footfall to our towns and villages and millions of euro collected each week in post offices through the Department of Social

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice

Protection can be spent locally in the area. I know so many older people enjoyed the trip to their local post office to collect their pension, meeting friends and going to do shopping. The pandemic had an impact, however slowly things are coming back to normal again,” she said.

Fitzmaurice: Car rental prices will impact tourism

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has said that Ireland’s “out of control” car rental prices

Murphy welcomes jobs announcements

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has this week welcomed the announcement that 25 jobs are to be created at Strokestown Park House while 250 jobs will be created at Ericsson Athlone over the next five years.

“Despite the massive uncertainty in the economy because of the Ukrainian war there is a constant flow of new job announcements with many of those announcements now occurring outside Dublin,” he said.

“I acknowledge there is a huge cost of living crisis out there but if we can continue to create jobs within our region it means more opportunities and in some cases could lead to people not having to travel long distance for work opportunities”.

Senator Murphy also commented on the success

Letters to the Editor

Sightseeing Cruises & Angling Trips

of Louise Ward and her staff at the Local Enterprise Office in Roscommon.

“The local LEO is beavering behind the scenes and are doing Trojan work in developing new job opportunities within Roscommon. I am very hopeful because of that work we will see further positive news on the job creation front,” he said.

Local businesses urged to apply for new apprenticeship support

Employers in Roscommon are being urged to take on apprentices and avail of increased financial supports.

Businesses which take on apprentices are now entitled to a €2,000 payment – €1,000 in June and a further €1,000 at the end of the year. In addition, employers who take on an under-represented gender are entitled to an additional €2,666.

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said: “This fund, introduced by Minister Simon Harris in Budget 2022, is vital to helping business to cover the costs of apprentices’ salaries, mentoring and training costs”.

“There are over 60 courses available in traditional craft apprentices such as construction as well as many industries from tech to bio-pharma, to engineering, manufacturing, accountancy, auctioneering, hospitality and many more, providing a pipeline of talent for businesses”.

Employers who believe they are eligible for the grant but who have not yet registered for Apprenticeship Online can contact info-apprenticeshipjobs@solas.ie to register.

Send your letters to: Abbey Street, Roscommon Town.

Fax: (090) 66 34303 or email: news@roscommonpeople.ie

Reader unhappy with €920 bill following car accident Cloonlaughlan, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon

Dear Editor, I would like to bring to the attention of your readers a matter, arising from a car accident, which may have an impact for some of them.

I preface the following by stating that I am now retired but, during my career in sales/marketing, I have lived/worked/ driven on three continents – North America, Europe and Asia – and during that time, I had only one other, minor, accident.

A stone on the minor road threw my car off line, resulting in a collision with a gatepost to the adjoining field – there was no other vehicle, person or animal involved. The good people in the house next to the field came to see that I was okay, which I was.

I made a call to my garage, where I bought the car, and

they arrived 15 minutes later and took the car away. It was then that I noticed that a ‘mobile hospital van’ had arrived. I said there was nothing wrong with me – I was wearing a seat belt.

They insisted and I complied.

All was normal. I never heard from them again.

However, what I did get in the post was an invoice for €920 from Galway Fire Brigade – which I did not see there at the

accident scene and I certainly had no interaction with them or they with me.

I have pointed out the above to them since and refused to pay. Yesterday, I got a strongly worded legal letter from their solicitors for a court summons from them and I would be liable for all expenses as well.

Reluctantly, I paid.

Yours sincerely, Peter S. Wrafter

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

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06

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Friday

The lives we’re living…

Mike: It’s strange…I’ve had no communication from John on the hill for about a week now…

Pat: Are you serious? And ye are normally in contact a lot. Is it not time to be getting worried?

Mike: Ah no, I saw him yesterday, he passed by in his jeep…and I heard from my daughter that he was in town this morning.

Pat: Oh, thank God! So he’s fine…

Mike: Ah yeah, he’s absolutely fine, sure that man is as strong and healthy as two horses, it’s just there’s been no communication…I sent him a WhatsApp on Thursday…no reply.

Pat: Okay…

Mike: I texted him Friday morning, just in case the WiFi was playing up…

Pat: Right…

Mike: I even tried to get him on Zoom, like we were doing on the Neighbourhood Watch committee during Covid…

Pat: Sure he must be on the land, or maybe in the garden, with the nice weather over the weekend…

Mike: I phoned him, and it went to voicemail…

Pat: I wonder if…

Mike: My daughter’s in the drama society with him, communications-wise, they’re on everything…she sent him direct messages on my behalf on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Nothing!

Pat: I wonder…

Mike: And Snapchat…

Pat: He’s probably busy…

Mike: I know, but you’d miss the chat, the bit of craic…I wouldn’t mind, but the jeep is there nearly all the time!

Pat: Eh…I wonder…

Mike: Yeah?

Pat: Ah, nothing…

Mike: No, go on, get it off your chest!

Pat: Have you tried actually calling up to his house on the hill, ringing the doorbell, going in…one foot after the other…maybe having a cup of a tea, asking him about life, chatting over old times, spending an hour there catching up on Neighbourhood Watch, the drama society, the men’s shed, how his sister is in Boston, the GAA, the politics, the neighbours, the weather, the farming, the craic…have you tried physically meeting him and talking in the flesh?

Mike: Jeekers, I hadn’t really thought of that option, fair play to you!

Saturday It wasn’t quite the day of sport we had

Sunday On the front of the Sunday Independent, they’re promoting an article by Professor Luke O’Neill (which appears on an inside page): ‘Should you be worried about monkeypox? Professor Luke O’Neill. Page 17’.

Another question: Should we be worried about a growing obsession with viruses/ infections meaning ‘celebrity scientists’ like the ever-cheerful Luke are here to stay?

Monday-Wednesday

Young supporters pictured at the recent G&G Electric Junior Hurling Final between Tremane and Oran.

Pic: Bernie Farrell

expected. I didn’t see Kerry v Limerick in the Munster Football final, and clearly didn’t miss much (Kerry winning by 23 points).

Talk of Kildare putting it up to Dublin proved to be fanciful, the Dubs hitting five goals in 22 minutes in the first half, en route to a routine demolition job. If this is Dublin football in crisis, can we have some of that, please?

Next, the Heineken Champions Cup, where La Rochelle defeated favourites Leinster after a fairly epic battle. It’s an enormous career boost for their coach, Ronan O’Gara.

Later, heartbreak for Liverpool as European masters Real Madrid edged the Champions League final. The Real ‘keeper, Thibaut Courtois, was the real deal, making a number of fine saves. An extremely frustrating night for Liverpool, but they’ll be back challenging for the top honours next season.

Saturday Readers of a certain age will recall those classic TV ads for Hamlet cigars (believe it or not, they ran from 1966 to ’91). A character would experience some mishap, before quickly becoming philosophical about their bad luck, lighting up a cigar, and breaking into a smile.

Cue soothing music and the voiceover: ‘Happiness…is a cigar called Hamlet’.

Such ads are now rightly no longer broadcast, smoking being the health hazard that it is. So one shouldn’t really smoke, but I guess it’s okay to be nostalgic about great TV ads from the past.

Anyways – and really do try not to smoke – I thought of that ad today when it struck me that of the many Liverpool supporters living in Kildare, most of them will presumably have a fondness for the Leinster rugby team…some may even have a partner from Limerick! Not the best of days for those sports fans, given how Liverpool, Kildare, Leinster and Limerick fared in their respective sporting finals today. Cue the music in your mind… *Complaints about my referencing an advertisement promoting smoking can be sent to the usual address (if flooded with complaints, I’ll have the soothing music ready).

Sunday It really was like old times today at the Connacht final. It was great to see big crowds back, the beautiful early summer sunshine a reminder of Connacht finals of the past.

There was a very big Roscommon presence in Pearse Stadium and in the general Salthill area before the game. Fortunate to have a designated driver, and after a long walk, we had a pint after the game in the famous O’Connor’s of Salthill, which I first visited in the 1980s.

I’m delighted to say it has hardly changed at all, and remains as quaint as ever.

Later, we called to the Galway Bay Hotel, where there was a great crowd of Rossies and Galwegians. Very much like old times, and all the better for it. My views on the match are on pages 51 & 53.

Maybe it’s the same in other countries, but we really do make a mess of some things here. The chaos at Dublin Airport on Sunday has been followed by unsatisfactory engagement between the DAA (Dublin Airport Authority) and Ministers Eamon Ryan and Hildegarde Naughton, the latter very anxious to assure Bryan Dobson on RTE radio on Monday that she had demanded a report from the airport management “within 24 hours”. It didn’t come then, but has been pieced together as we go to press on Wednesday.

While one can understand the authorities having projected a slower return to air travel (post-Covid) than has been the reality, it’s still the case that the decision to let up to 1,000 workers take redundancy was poorly thought out. Now a desperate scramble to train up new staff is belatedly underway. This weekend is unlikely to go smoothly at the beleaguered airport.

What else can I say? All roads lead to Knock…

Tuesday On the Tonight Show on Virgin Media, Michael Healy-Rae – who yet again remembered to bring his vote-winning trademark cap – was feasting on greens. I joined it when they were discussing the latest government plan on post offices.

After having a go at Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, declaring that both parties have lost rural Ireland, he paused for effect. But if the polite Green Party TD (Marc Ó Cathasaigh) on the panel thought it was time to relax, he was wrong. Michael had a punchline.

“And the only reason the Greens haven’t lost it (rural Ireland) is because they never had it to lose it!”

You could almost hear some of his constituents back in Kerry cheering. Michael smiled.

Sure it was worth going into studio for that quip alone. (Naturally, Michael had a lot less to say when presenter Ciara Doherty noted that one of the canny TD’s many business interests includes his role as a postmaster).

07

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

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Pictured from left Denis Dullea, Head of R&D Ericsson Athlone; Minister of State Robert Troy and Sinéad Pillion, Head of Operations Ericsson Athlone, as the company announced it will hire an additional 250 people at its Athlone software development campus over the next three years. Pic: Naoise Culhane

Ericsson announces plans to create 250 jobs in Athlone < DAN DOONER

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar this week hailed Ericsson’s commitment to creating 250 more jobs as “a vote of confidence in Athlone and Ireland as a whole”.

Describing the announcement as “really good news”, he welcomed the fact that “such an internationally renowned company has chosen to make this investment”.

Mr. Varadkar added: “Thank you to Ericsson

for their continuing commitment to our country and the Irish-based team who I know were crucial in the decision to bring this investment to Ireland”.

He was speaking after telecommunications company Ericsson announced plans to hire 250 people at its Research and Development Centre in Athlone to support the company’s ongoing global development of innovative cloud-native products and services.

The new jobs are to be created over the next three years and will be focused

Local economy will benefit – Naughten Deputy Denis Naughten said the Ericsson jobs’ announcement is likely to have a positive impact on Roscommon.

“We now need to build on this investment in towns such as Roscommon, which have an abundance of office space, and with a further incubation hub planned for Ballinasloe and other towns in the region we must now spread the benefit from this major growth in the tech sector in Ireland’s Heartlands,” he said.

“The objective of creating a hub in Athlone and using that to bring more investment into the surrounding towns of Tullamore, Mullingar, Longford, Roscommon and Ballinasloe is clearly set out in the Government’s Project Ireland 2040. This is a designation that I spearheaded through my engagement with Government.

“Apart from direct employment, these multinational companies have a hugely positive effect on the local economy with over eight jobs being created for every 10 jobs in multinational companies,” Deputy Naughten concluded.

on employing cloud native software developers, engineers and architects.

The Swedish company has had an Research and Development presence in Athlone since 1979 and employs 1,200 staff in Athlone and 200 in Dublin, making it one of the country’s largest employers in the software sector.

Denis Dullea, Head of Research and Development at Ericsson Athlone said: “This announcement underscores our global reputation as a world class R&D software de-

velopment centre. Our team here already plays a critical role in the development of Ericsson products, services, and solutions that enable Ericsson to deliver limitless connectivity that makes the unimaginable possible.

“We are hiring an additional 250 software developers, engineers and architects with cloud native skills to enhance our capability to deliver the benefits of cloud native technologies to our global customer base via our RAN, Management, Auto-

mation and Orchestration offerings”.

Mr. Dullea added: “The investment is also good news for Athlone and the wider midlands region, where Ericsson is one of the largest employers.

With strong ongoing partnerships with the IDA, the Irish Government and the recently established Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), we are excited to continue attracting and nurturing the best and brightest Irish and international talent to the heart of Ireland”.

Local publisher BRIM JK Publishing, located in Kontiki, Roosky, announcing

NEW CHILDREN’S ILLUSTRATED BOOK The book is available for purchase at www.publishing.brim.ie

Ms. Georgina Keena, Principal, Roscommon Community College, Lisnamult, Roscommon before 5.00 p.m. Wed. 8th June, 2022.

Telephone enquiries to: 090 66 26670.

MOLLOY’S MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512.

E. dnmolloymainstreet@eircom.net

June Bank Holiday Weekend Sale

Available 2nd to 6th June

CARLSBERG Danish Pilsner 300ml 20 Pack €20.00 €3.50/ltr; CARLSBERG Danish Pilsner 500ml 12 Pack €20.49/€3.41/ltr; ROCKSHORE Light Irish Lager 330ml 20 Pack €19.99 €3.03/ltr; GUINNESS Draught Irish Stout 500ml 12 pack €19.99/€3.33ltr

MATEUS ROSÉ Special Anniversary Edition 750ml €7.99; YELLOW TAIL Selected 750ml Range €7.99

Celebrating 100 years in Roscommon town

1922 – 2022

newsbriefs Castlerea ICA AGM and next meeting At the recent AGM of the Castlerea ICA Guild, a new committee was formed for the coming year.

Mary Heaney was elected president, Elizabeth Devine was elected vice president, Connie Gannon was elected secretary, Kathleen Hester was elected treasurer, and Sheila O’Flanagan was elected press officer. Committee members include Mamie O’Connor, Monica Bruen and Helen Farrelly.

The next meeting of the Guild will be held in D Gaff, Barrack Street, on Tuesday, June 7th, at 8 pm. New members are welcome to attend on the night.

50,000 on outpatient waiting lists in Roscommon/Galway There are currently over 50,000 people on outpatient waiting lists in Roscommon/Galway with over 16,514 of those now waiting over 18 months for treatment.

The shocking figures were revealed following a Parliamentary Question from Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane.

Among the figures, a total of 2,521 people are currently awaiting cardiology treatment, 3,781 are waiting for general surgery while 2,042 await neurology services and 75 await neurosurgery.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

Kerrane seeks clarity on Covid recognition payment Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has called for clarity on when and how the Covid recognition payment will be paid to healthcare staff, as well as guarantees for non-agency, non-HSE employed health service workers, such as contract cleaners, security, and catering staff.

She said that there remained doubts and unresolved issues around paying the bonus to privately employed contract workers who work in public hospitals, home care, or for section 39 organisations, who were to be covered by the original Government decision, and that she had sought clarity from the Minister

Cllr. Tony Waldron pictured presenting Michael Glavey’s Sinéad Garvey (Club Secretary) and Chairperson Barbara Morris with the 2021 Roscommmon Club Volunteer Award for their ‘Swap the Ball’ fundraising event for the club and Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. Pic: Mick McCormack

for Health Stephen Donnelly.

“Anyone that worked in a clinical Covid-19-exposed environment – such as a hospital – deserves the pandemic bonus.

Yet, five months on, there is still a lack of clarity as to how and when the payment will be made,” Deputy Kerrane said.

“I spoke to one home care provider this week who has still not been contacted by the HSE and asked about the number of staff they employ. This tells me the HSE don’t even have their maths done.

“There is also uncertainty for contract workers who are privately employed but working

for the public healthcare system.

There are unresolved issues which have led to some workers being told that they will not get the payment, which I have raised with the Health Minister.

It is still unclear if they will get it and no process has been worked out on how they will be paid.

“It is really important that these workers, many in lowest paid jobs, and including cleaning, security, catering workers, get the payment.

“Health service contract workers need clarity and guarantees that they will be paid the pandemic bonus in the coming weeks,” she concluded.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

The

D News page

G

Castlecoote Clean Up a big success!

Castlecoote Tidy Towns recently held their big annual Clean Up. Rubbish was collected on all approach roads and on the group’s ‘Adopt a Road’. The organisers wish to thank everyone who participated. A cup of tea was enjoyed by all at Castlecoote Stores afterwards. A big thank you also to Roscommon County Council who collected the rubbish.

Castlecoote Tidy Towns have registered for the ‘Clean Coasts’ clean up this year and this will be arranged soon.

(Left) Castlecoote Tidy Towns recently held their big annual Clean Up. Rubbish was collected on all approach roads and on the group’s ‘Adopt a Road’.

Roscommon winners announced in National Lottery Good Causes Awards The Melting Pot Community Society and Ballinlough Granlahan Heritage Group are the two Roscommon community groups and organisations announced today as county winners in the National Lottery Good Causes Awards 2022.

The Melting Pot provide support to people who are marginalised and experiencing social exclusion within the community by offering them an opportunity to volunteer, access work experience or a respectful place to relax within the Melting Pot café, char-

ity shop and community space.

The funding received through the HSE National Lottery Grant enabled the organisation to set up a Meals on Wheels Service in Roscommon town and the surrounding catchment area. The service supports people to live as independently as possible and ensures their customers receive nutritious meals.

The Ballinlough Granlahan Heritage Group promote and educate visitors about Lake O Flynn, its crannóg and the ruins of Kiltullagh Church in Granlahan. Good

Causes funding received through the Heritage Council of Ireland enabled the group to commission a 3D animation company to produce an animated representation of the Ballinlough crannog, the lake and its environment as it may have appeared in the middle ages.

Announcing the County winners today, National Lottery CEO, Andrew Algeo, said: “The stories and insights that we read in this year’s entries truly exemplified the positive impact that the groups, sports clubs and organisations who receive

Eamon Dennehy, ASTI President, presents the PJ Kenney Award to Marian Collins, ASTI Carrick-on-Shannon Branch.

Local teacher receives ASTI PJ Kennedy Award!

Marian Collins, a former teacher at Scoil Mhuire, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. National Lottery funding, are hav- Leitrim, has received an ing in towns and villages all over award for service to the ASTI. Ireland. Celebrating the inspiraThe PJ Kennedy Award tional work being carried out by these extraordinary beneficiaries is presented to ASTI members who have and recognising the effect that given valuable service to they have on their communities is exactly what the Good Causes the union at branch level.

As a member of ASTI Awards are all about”.

The awards, which culminate in a Gala Awards dinner in Kildare on Saturday October 1st, have seven main categories: Sport, Health & Wellbeing, Heritage, Arts & Culture, Community, Youth and Irish Language.

Carrick-on-Shannon Branch, Marian worked with teachers in her area to ensure their voice was heard at local and national level, both within the ASTI and in the wider world of education.

The award ceremony took place on Friday last in the Gresham Hotel in Dublin.

SEI Impact Award for Roscommon firm Roscommon native and social entrepreneur Mark Kirwan, founder of Positive Carbon received the Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Impact Award at an event in Dublin last week, alongside cofounder Aisling Kirwan.

Positive Carbon works with the hospitality and food service industry to reduce their impact on the environment through using its fully automated food waste monitoring technology. The company was one of five organisations to win a place on the SEI Impact Programme in August 2021 after the programme drew more than 110 applications from all corners of Ireland.

The SEI Impact Programme is a nine-month accelerator programme that identifies high-potential social entrepreneurs and supports them through significant funding and mentoring, as well as providing access

to a network of support.

The 2021-2022 Impact Awardees received training in areas such as fundraising, governance, leadership, and storytelling, in addition to €20,000 in direct, unrestricted funding.

Over the past year, Positive Carbon has commenced work with some of the largest hotels, universities, food service providers and multinationals in Ireland, preventing hundreds of kilos of food from reaching the bin, and helping customers increase their kitchen profits by two per cent due to this reduced wastage.

By the end of the year, Positive Carbon plans to be operating in 100 locations across the country, and to have removed 250,000 kilos of Co2 from the atmosphere.

Commenting, CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Tim Griffiths said: “Over the past nine

months, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland has invested in, supported and grown five promising social entrepreneur-led organisations.

“We are hugely inspired by what the Impact Awardees are doing to improve people’s lives across Ireland. Social entrepreneurs are integral to spotting

problems that might otherwise be hidden, and creating innovative solutions.

We look forward to seeing what our Impact Awardees achieve next”.

Kilteevan NS first class pupil, Heather O’Loughlin, was recently named Overall Winner in the Junior Category of the CPSMA National Art Competition.

National art title for Heather!

Roscommon native and social entrepreneur Mark Kirwan, founder of Positive Carbon received the Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Impact Award at an event in Dublin last week, alongside co-founder Aisling Kirwan. Pic: Steadman Photography

A few weeks ago, pupils at Kilteevan NS entered the CPSMA National Art Competition, exploring the theme ‘Catholic Schools - Community, Welcome and Faith in Action’.

Recently, first class pupil, Heather O’Loughlin, received the wonderful news that she had been crowned Overall Winner of the Junior Category (junior infants to second class).

Heather and her parents were invited to the CPSMA Annual Conference in the Slieve Russell Hotel in Cavan last Tuesday. Guests were ‘treated like royalty for the day’, viewed all of the winning artworks, and were presented with amazing prizes.

The Bishop of Meath Thomas Deenihan presented Heather with a certificate, a €300 gift voucher for JD Sports for herself and a digital camera for her school - what amazing prizes and a fabulous achievement, congratulations Heather!

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople Circular Road, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon www.toplinewards.ie Circular Road, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon Open MON-SAT 9.00am-6.00pm, SUN Closed www.toplinewards.ie

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Man (21) charged in relation to crash in which Roscommon man died Police in New Zealand have charged a 21-year-old man in connection with the death of a Roscommon native in a road crash in Wellington earlier this year.

Declan Curley (37) was killed after being struck by a car in the central Wellington area as he crossed the street in the early hours of February 12th last.

Police in the New Zealand Capital have told media that the man appeared in Wellington District Court in relation to the death of Mr. Curley on Dixon Street.

He was granted bail after

pleading not guilty to two charges, one of driving at a dangerous speed and causing Mr. Curley’s death, and another of driving with a breath alcohol reading of 516mcg, over twice the legal limit.

A Givealittle page was set up to raise money for Declan Curley’s family following his death. Over $90,000 was raised for the south Roscommon man.

The page read: “He leaves behind his heartbroken partner Sam and her daughter Mia, who Declan loved as his own. His lov-

ing parents Tommy and Rena, family and friends both in Ireland and New Zealand”.

Traditional skills course in Ballintubber

Declan Curley, RIP

A traditional skills course entitled ‘The Care and Conservation of a Medieval Castle Ruin’ will take place at Ballintubber Castle, Roscommon on July 28th and 29th.

The course, which will feature a workshops and seminars from a range of speakers and guests, will commence at 3 pm on Thursday, 28th. This is an event open to all in

County Roscommon. Cost: €50 (to be subsidised by local heritage groups where applicable). For more information or to book your place, contact Cllr. Anthony Waldron on 086-7866774, email anthonywaldron@ gmail.com or contact Karen Lysaght, Southgate Associates on 087-1336506 or email Karen@chsa.ie.

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ATHLONE ROAD , ROSCOMMON GREAT FOOD, ALL DAY EVERY DAY Loyal support: James Cooke Jnr. pictured with Roscommon footballer Conor Cox following the Connacht SFC Final at Pearse Stadium last Sunday.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique

take on life ...

Clash of the cash! Why I feel sympathy for the Kerry hurlers Our man Frank on the plight of the Kerry hurlers; selfdriving lorries; and the need to address the state of Gaelic football at inter-county level…

Kerry has long been known for its beautiful scenery – the Lakes of Killarney, the Dingle Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry, the Gleneagle Ballroom, Listowel Races – and then there’s the Kerry footballers, with legends like Mick O’Connell, Mick O’Dwyer and Jack O’Shea – amongst hundreds of others. But seldom, if ever, do you hear of the hurlers who represent the Kingdom.

And yet in the last couple of weeks, they have finally made the national papers – although not solely for their hurling prowess. The first thing that happened to them is that they couldn’t get any affordable hotel rooms in Dublin for when they’re due to play in the Joe McDonagh final against Antrim next month in Croke Park.

Two hotels quoted them €13,000-€15,000 for one night for a party of 45 or so people, while families of the players were asked up to €1,100 for a room. Sadly, as a result of the exorbitant prices, the team, mentors, and supporters will be travelling home to Kerry after the game.

It seems that in every aspect, our hospitality sector is once again doing the best they can to price themselves out of the market, as the cost of car rentals has also gone through the roof.

It’s high time the state of Gaelic football was addressed!

Changes occur in all area of life, but in all my years I don’t think I have ever seen as much detrimental change as that which has occurred in Gaelic football this week.

The Ulster final brought negative football to a new low, and while it was a great win for Derry after 24 years, for all of us who tuned into watch, it was a mind-bogglingly boring game. I never thought that I would turn off a GAA match after only a few minutes to watch a soccer game between two teams I had no interest in (Nottingham Forest and Huddersfield), but that is what happened – and I am told that I made the right decision.

Apparently it was a game that brought boring to a new level.

Surely now the time has come to tackle the way the game has gone.

Thankfully the large crowd in Salthill were treated to a more exciting open contest, although still dominated by massed defences. At least Galway and Roscommon tried to go forward at pace on a number of occasions, and while Galway were well deserving of the win, the Rossies put in a

storming finish and could easily have got away with a draw.

The Barstool Boyos (page 2 every week) were wondering last week as to how I saw the game going, and the truth is that I put a small wager on a double draw, along with Derry and Donegal.

The Ulster part came up (in normal time), and in the end all that separated the two Connacht neighbours was the kick of a ball.

And so a weekend that was so full of promise on the Gaelic football scene, with all four provincial finals being played, turned out exactly as I predicted –complete non-events in Munster and Leinster, a typically dull Ulster final, and one game worthy of a provincial final.

Where the game of football goes from here is hard to know, but one thing is certain – for the Dubs, winning Leinster no longer means a thing.

All I can say is something must be done, or attendances at games will dwindle away.

Maybe when the people start to boycott inter-county matches and income dries up, action will finally be taken to save one of the best field games in the world.

CNN News Correspondent Donie O’Sullivan, also a Kerryman, was quoted €1,957.60 for less than a week’s car hire of a small two-door VW, while another tourist told Liveline last week that he was quoted €3,000 for a Ford Focus for two days.

The sector blames the effects of Covid and rising inflation, which has resulted in a shortage of cars. Maybe they are right, but whatever the reason, lots of potential tourists are cancelling their plans for Irish holidays this year.

However, the price of hotel rooms is not the only misfortune to hit the Kerry hurlers, because remarkably, if they win the Joe McDonagh Cup, the prize for them would be different to Antrim’s if the latter county were to win. Should Antrim win, they automatically

qualify for a tilt at the Liam MacCarthy Cup by playing in the Leinster Championship. Poor Kerry however, even if they win, would have to beat Tipperary in a play-off game to get into the Munster Championship – and that could never be allowed to happen.

In all my life I have never before heard of a situation where the prize for getting to a final was different for the two teams. No matter how you look at it, it cannot be regarded as being fair.

And so, after a few weeks in the limelight, let’s hope Kerry hurlers get fair play from the powers-that-be in Croke Park. If they beat Antrim and win the McDonagh Cup, let them get the rewards their efforts deserve, and the opportunity to have a crack at winning the All-Ireland.

Supporters pictured at Pearse Stadium on Sunday for the 2022 Connacht Senior Football final. Photo: Mick McCormack

Coming soon… self-driving lorries!

A few weeks ago I wrote about the huge changes that have occurred over the years in the machinery field, and indeed in the world of social interaction with children. Well, a reader got in contact to tell me about the self-drive lorries that are being tested out in America; apparently when they get all the paperwork sorted, these lorries will drive themselves with no human input – and as a result, they can actually stay working 24 hours a day, every day.

The tachograph will be a thing of the past, drivers will not be necessary (although I imagine there will be a need for helpers to load and unload these trucks), and haulage companies will be able to work around the clock. He also tells me that there will soon be similar self-drive cars on the road, and that drink-driving will be a thing of the past.

You could have as much to drink as you like – you won’t be driving. As the car drives itself, there with no human input whatsoever.

I have no idea how insurance will work, but when the cars eventually take to the road, I’m confident the insurance companies will come up with some way to keep on getting huge sums of money from the long-suffering public.

Now I’m sure the price of these self-drive vehicles will be prohibitive, so the price list that a reader sent me of cars in 1970 makes interesting reading. The Ford Escort was £897, Cortina £1007, Capri £1,151, and all the popular cars were from £775 (Mini) to the Capri at £1,151. The most expensive

car was the Jaguar XJ6 at £3,026, but I don’t remember too many of them around Creggs.

And finally…

As the town of Uvalde tries to come to terms with last week’s horrific mass shootings, it seems that nineteen armed police stood in the school hallway and did nothing for more than an hour while an armed gunman murdered nineteen children and two teachers.

How or why that happened is not yet clear, but it is hard to believe that they could have stood idly by for 78 minutes while two teachers and nineteen pupils were shot dead. Some day the truth will come out, and it is unlikely to do anything but shame the nineteen armed police. I somehow doubt that any of them will be commended for bravery.

I never commented on Donald Trump while he was in the White House as he was such an idiot he didn’t deserve any comment, but his solution to the American shootings is to arm the teachers and train them in the area of armed defence. How anyone could think that would solve the problem beats me.

‘Till next week, bye for now

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

Pictured at Lynch Flooring on Saturday on the occasion of their 15th anniversary celebrations were Janine Lins, Pictured at Lynch Flooring on Saturday on the occasion of their 15th anniversary celebrations were Gabriel Gabriel Lynch and Carmel McDermott. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh Lynch, Carmel McDermott, Ben Johnson, Janine Lins and Trevor Finneran. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

newsbriefs Car Wash in aid of Castlerea Show A Car Wash in aid of Castlerea Agricultural Show will take place in The Square, Castlerea this Friday, June 3rd from 10 am to 5 pm.

Volunteers are welcome on the day. Contact Susan on 086-0734216 or Kayley on 086-3399125. You can follow Castlerea Agricultural Show on Facebook. Please support your local show!

Monster Auction in aid of Lecarrow Benevolent Fund A Monster Auction in aid of Lecarrow Benevolent Fund will take place at Coffey’s pub in Lecarrow this Sunday (June 5th), starting at 7 pm.

The Lecarrow Benevolent Fund, which has helped many local causes over the years, is marking 21 years in existence this year. The Fund provides support to organisations and individuals throughout the parish and surrounding areas. This unique way of assisting people was devised in Lecarrow when a small group of community-minded individuals came together in 2001 to help those in difficulty.

Among the wide range of lots on offer at Sunday’s auction (approximately 250 in total), are bales of straw, square bales of hay, a trailer of turf, car service, two days of stone wall building, 20 tonnes of gravel, meal vouchers, fuel vouchers, €100 Radiant voucher, drinks vouchers, Waldron’s meat hampers and much more.

A statement from the group reads: “Lecarrow Benevolent Fund has been unable to fundraise due to Covid and as such, like many organisations, funding is now depleted. All support would be greatly appreciated to enable Lecarrow Benevolent Fund to continue to help individuals and organisations in need”.

On Bank Holiday Monday (June 6th) the Fund will hold the draw for its popular annual raffle. First prize is €1,000 (sponsored), second prize is two nights’ B&B plus one evening meal in the Galway Bay Hotel for two people, and third prize is two nights’ B&B midweek in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel for two people.

Tickets cost €5, five for €20, fifteen for €50 and are available on www. idonate.ie by searching for ‘Lecarrow Benevolent Fund Annual Raffle’.

Roscommon for Life Mass Roscommon for Life invites you to a Mass in the Apparition Chapel in Knock, on Saturday, June 11th, at 12.30 pm.

DAY WITH THE STARS Country Music Festival

NATHAN CARTER • MIKE DENVER JIMMY BUCKLEY • PHILOMENA BEGLEY CLAUDIA BUCKLEY • ROBERT MIZZELL PATRICK FEENEY • RAY LYNAM OLIVIA DOUGLAS • CIARAN ROSNEY TRUDI LALOR • MICK FLAVIN DAVID JAMES • BRENDAN JERMYN

Sunday 19t h June 2022 Roscommon Racecourse

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World boxing champion Lisa O’Rourke pictured with Adrian Grealy, Director of the Abbey Hotel, last Thursday evening.

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TICKET OUTLETS: Shannonside Longford, Northern Sound Monaghan, Multisound Cavan, Sound Quality Gifts Monaghan, ETL Roscommon, Mulveys Carrick on Shannon, Toweys Ballagherreen, Donlons Newsagents Longford, Joe O’Briens Lanesboro, Corrib Oil Boyle, Mace Castlerea, Golden Discs Athlone, Cronins Ballyjamesduff & Ticketmaster

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Grandmothers will be keepin’ it lit as the class of 22 sit State exams!

Next Wednesday, students across Ireland (including my beautiful granddaughter) will see the return of the Junior Cert (called the Inter Cert in my day) for the first time in two years. In addition, the Leaving Cert, in its typical in-person setting and complete with ‘extensive changes,’ will also begin on that same day.

This being the case readers… cue sleepless nights, tension, tummy aches, irritability and mood swings –and that’s just the parents!

Mind you, where my granddaughter’s concerned, that panicked parent will not be her mother (my daughter), it’ll be me, her grandmother, because I’m the family fuss-pot when it comes to State exams – in fact, exams in general!

By complete contrast, my daughter Gillian (Ellarose’s mother) is one of the most chilled out, takeeverything-in-her-stride humans I’ve ever known. When I tried to help her study for her own Leaving Cert by drawing up a carefully curated, colour-coded study-programme, she laughed, ripped it up and informed me she had her own plan. My anxiety levels sky-rocketed when she told me it consisted of her doing only what she needed to do, when she needed to do it; that way, she reasoned, she could keep her workload as “light as possible”. Aaagh!

For the record, as she passed with honours, became an award-winning hair stylist, re-trained as an aesthetics practitioner, and is a very successful business woman running her

own clinic in Dublin. She’s proved to me that allowing your body to be hijacked by panic never solves anything, rather it creates problems!

It’s for that very reason I’ve remained (and will continue to remain), firmly in the background regarding my granddaughter’s Junior Cert preparations, only providing help when she rings me and asks for it.

Why? Because like Nana, my granddaughter’s also a worrier, and like Nana, she’s regimented about studying, only taking breaks to watch her favourite TV show (mine was Top of the Pops) and eat her meals, therefore the child doesn’t need to be on the receiving end of my mania!

While I love the fact my granddaughter ‘takes after’ me, given the apple didn’t fall far from that trepidation tree, I’d prefer it if she was more like her mother – as in, laid-back!

Despite the fact my eldest has the family fuss-pot as her mother means she was predisposed to being an uptight handwringer (her words… not mine), Gillian’s Leaving Cert (and life) strategy was to approach everything with calmness, clarity, and a large element of control. This, she said, involved her putting in the work, giving the questions her best shot, having fun with her pals, and making memories! And you know what, my fearful fellow-frienzies, she was and is perfectly right!

Whether it’s self-inflicted or whether it’s thrust upon them by their parents (and by colleges) who expect them to achieve ridiculously high grades, the

fact is, there’s way too much pressure being placed on teenagers, and those who fall prey to the burden of it can often become stuck by it!

With that in mind, this card-carrying, concrete, all-or-nothing Nana of an amazing Junior Cert student would like to share what I’ll be do-

ing with every grandparent who, this week, finds themselves experiencing those physical and psychological exam sympathy pains… and it’s this: As Wednesday draws near, and the alarm sounds to hail the start of the English paper, I’ll instruct the rational side of my brain to tell the irrational

Thank you to caring Convent of Mercy TY students As an animal welfare advocate, I’m someone who strongly believes humane education during childhood is absolutely vital when it comes to creating compassionate adults for the specific reason it reduces violence and builds moral character, something which is essential when it comes to having empathy with animals.

With that sentiment in mind, I’d like to say how impressed I am with the Convent of Mercy’s (Roscommon town) TY students and their teacher Ms Edel Connolly for their awareness, their consideration and their humility in raising funds (€150) for locally-run cat welfare charity

TNR South Roscommon.

In the course of some people’s lives, helping sentient beings (animals) may appear to be an insignificant task; and, while those of us who strive hard to make a difference cannot, (because we deal with the remnants of their cruelty every day), understand that way of thinking, we must sadly cope with it.

Therefore, when a local school and their TY teacher actively demonstrates empathy by raising vitally needed funds that’ll help provide food and veterinary care for orphaned and abandoned cats in the community, it’s crucial they’re both recognised and

congratulated for the amazing human beings they are.

So, on behalf of fellow Dub Orla Hanley (who runs TNR South Roscommon and has the patience of a saint), the volunteers, supporters and the many cats who’ll benefit from your kindness, I’d like to say thank you to every single one of you, and to Ms Connelly.

I’d also like to say a massive go raibh míle maith agaibh to your parents, because, given your capacity for caring, it’s clear that when you were young children, they made kindness a priority – something which you’ll now pass on to your own families.

So moved was Orla by your

donation, she told me: “This money will go a long way towards our vet bills. This is not the first time transition year students from this school have donated to our charity. I’d like to say thank you so, so much to them from us, and the many cats that will benefit from your imagination and generosity”.

Kindness has the power to transform lives, and the kindness shown by the Convent of Mercy TY students, under the direction of Edel Connelly, will help to transform the lives of many orphaned, abandoned and cherished kitty cats in Roscommon… dia dhaoibh!

side to take slow, deep breaths, and for heaven’s sake, stop catastrophising!

Next, I’ll raid the coin holder in both my car, and in he-who-thinksI-don’t-know-where-he-hides-hissmall-change’s car. Then, arming myself with my pocketful of loot, I’ll pop into the local church to join every other Roscommon grandmother as they light candles to their favourite saint – mine’s Padre Pio because no exam question is too large for him to tackle. I’ll ask him to help my granddaughter, and every student who has studied Shakespeare’s soliloquies and sonnets (my favourites), to remember them, and to make sure they treat themselves, not only with the compassion they deserve, but that they’ll make their mental wellbeing (and not the questions on that paper), their top priority.

Remember kids, the grades you achieve in your State exams, or in any exam, are not the ultimate essential for what you wish to achieve in life… grades do not define you!

Repeat after me: grades do not define you!

Sometimes, even when we’ve worked very hard, we still don’t get the outcome we wanted, deserved or needed, and a digit or a letter (lower than we expected) on an exam result should never, ever serve to reduce us. Remain focused, remain positive, remain fabulous, and when those exams are over, before you go celebrating, don’t forget to thank your grandmothers for keepin’ it lit… Good luck and God bless x

Ladies, our bodies are our source of power and strength… time to start loving them!

The prevalence of poor body image, especially among young girls and women, is evident in the results of a study carried out by Dove which found that ‘over 87 per cent of girls between the ages of 10 and 17 in Ireland don’t have high body esteem’.

The airbrushed idyll, once promoted by Victoria Beckham, who now believes “it’s an old-fashioned attitude, wanting to be really thin”, is so strong, the majority of us are not just negatively comparing ourselves to it, we’re allowing ourselves to be judged and valued by it.

How did we get here? Why do we have a nationwide epidemic of poor body image? Why must we think we need to be stick thin in order to be beautiful?

Look ladies, whether we’re flat-chested or large-breasted, have bits we want to hide or bits we want to enhance, the thing is, we are all beautiful… why? Because our bodies are our source of power and our source of strength… time to stop the blame game, stop the war, stop judging ourselves and start the lovin’. Rant over!

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

BALLYGAR PHARMACY

AFTERSCHOOL LEADER required for new

School Age Service (SAC) in St. Anne’s NS, Castlerea Hours of opening: 2pm to 6pm

• Minimum of 1 years experience • Excellent communication skills • Understanding of regulations and SAC guidelines • Understanding of Siolta & Aistear Desirable Criteria • Child Protection Training • FAR Training • Manual Handling Training THIS POST IS SUBJECT TO GARDA VETTING AND SATISFACTORY REFERENCE CHECKS Please send a copy of your CV by post to:

The Chairperson, St. Anne’s NS, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Or email: principal@stannens.com Closing date: 10/06/2022.

St. Anne’s N.S. Castlerea

Ballygar. Tel. 090 6624267. Email: ballygarpharmacy@gmail.com

Covid-19 Booster Vaccines now available instore.

Digital Covid Certs also available

- suitable for travel, events etc.

Government approved.

Contact Catherine to make your appointment.

Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Checking Service available instore CONTACT PHARMACY FOR APPOINTMENT

Catherine Healy M.P.S.I. At the healthy heart of the community ADVERTORIAL

Grow Remote hosts co-working day at The Spool Factory, Boyle Do you work remotely in Roscommon? Are you keen to meet other remote workers? Well, then you might be interested in the Community Workshop taking place on June 9th with Brian at The Spool Factory Digital Hub in Boyle. The Community Workshop runs from 10.30 am to 11.15 am. You will get the chance to enjoy a morning coffee, get a welcome from Brian and learn more about the facilities available at The Spool factory. You will also get an introduction to Grow Remote and the local Roscommon Chapter, and hear from Studio Meala about their journey and why co-working works for them.

There are eight free passes for the day up for grabs, which include a day pass for co-working at The Spool, a Community Workshop invite (with

coffee and biscuits), a social lunch with good company, and an after-work fitness class at the Fitt Factory. This is a great opportunity to explore your local co-working facilities and connect with other remote workers socially over lunch, and then get finish the day off with some wellbeing!

Grow Remote events are created to bring remote workers together in local areas. Everyone who works remotely or flexibly is welcome!

Note that this is exclusively an in-person event, and places are limited. Registration is required via Eventbrite and the eight free passes are allocated on a first come, first served basis. To book your place, visit eventbrite.ie/e/grow-remote-roscommon-remote-worker-meetup-co-working-lunchfitness-tickets-348020487647.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

CIARAN MULLOOLY

On The Back Benches Trauma in our hospitals helps explain why doctors and nurses are leaving our shores Very few of us will ever forget the bitter controversy and explosive political row that followed when the decision was made in 2011 to close the Accident & Emergency department at Roscommon County Hospital.

These were extraordinary times in the county, and indeed the Dáil. Then-Fine Gael TD Denis Naughten voted against the Government. After what seems like an entire age since those events took place, Frank Feighan, the Fine Gael TD who voted with the Government, is now a Junior Minister.

Most of us who live in County Roscommon have since grown accustomed to not living near a hospital with an Accident & Emergency department that caters for adults. Instead, when the need arises, we make the trip to places like Portiuncula, Mullingar, Castlebar, or indeed Galway.

Last weekend, on an overnight visit to meet family in Mayo, this writer had, for the first time (thankfully) since the Roscommon closure, to experience what really happens when one has to step inside just one of those units. I was following in the footsteps of the people of Ballaghaderreen and nearby when I had occasion to have a family member treated inside the doors of Mayo University Hospital’s emergency department.

Peaceful scene The scene was set on a very quiet and sunny Saturday morning in the Mayo county town of Castlebar. What began as a fairly innocent wrist injury at school on Friday afternoon had developed overnight into a painful and suspected bone fracture. I have to be honest. It was my bright idea to bring our young patient up the road from where we were staying to try the emergency department at the hospital in Castlebar. That’s because I genuinely thought that it might be the right thing to do at the time – to visit a modern acute emergency room. But that is not how it turned out.

One of the factors that swayed me was the great proximity to the emergency department. The Google Maps app told us we were just six minutes away from the professional medical care, so it seemed a no-brainer to get the young man up and away early on Saturday morning. I had dropped off the patient just before 10.45 at a hospital which had all the desired semblance of calm and control about it.

For starters, I couldn’t see sight nor light of an ambulance in the vicinity of the front doors, and even better, I couldn’t hear one either. The set down area was relatively quiet and there were even two places to pull up and let out the patient and his mother. I’m afraid the scene was somewhat different inside the building.

Patients arriving at Castlebar Hospital are firstly directed towards an assessment unit reception zone. My young man took his place in that area along with seven other people. The check-in process took about 7 or 8 minutes to complete, with signage in the area now confirming that patients using the hospital would be asked to pay up front for the service. (The policy heretofore was to send out a bill following a visit, but that seems to have changed everywhere now).

The friendly receptionist, possibly suspecting the

Roscommon University Hospital ... where the service was excellent.

wait ahead, informed us that she would not take the payment until our boy returned to the waiting room after the assessment. In retrospect, we should have known that something was not going to go well.

Traumatic experience Waiting for an assessment in Castlebar Hospital, no more than in all the other busy ones around the country, is not pleasant. In fairness, the young lady on the desk had done her best to personalise the experience by not only admiring my son’s Roscommon football jersey, but suggesting he would definitely be seen, even with that attire on his back – i.e. despite the fact we were firmly in the heart of County Mayo! But I’m afraid after that nice welcome the rest of the experience in the unit went downhill rather quickly.

The next step was to go into the main A&E assessment area where a young nurse again asked the patient to sit on a chair in the corridor. For the

“

He said there was a need to go hospitalby-hospital and emergency department by emergency department to find out what is going wrong. On hearing these words, we all sat up immediately in the car and were ready to offer an opinion!

next ten minutes, our 13-year-old patient sat there while awaiting the assessment, in the company of other patients who were in the same boat, so to speak. The problem with this arrangement was that one of the patients just ahead of him – inside one of the cubicles – was an elderly person who was already finding the experience upsetting and who simply didn’t want to be there.

This poor lady seemed to be highly distressed and was clearly suffering from onset of dementia. The problem here again was that her cubicle curtains were open – her privacy invaded, her distress very clear, and the experience of having to watch and listen to her trauma having an equally distressing effect on the 13-year-old child in the Rossie jersey and his mother.

Save from actually sitting through the trauma and pain of an actual operation in a hospital, this must go down as one of the most difficult, hurtful and embarrassingly awkward of moments. One feels not only the ordeal (for her) of the woman’s assessment, but a lack of respect for the elderly lady in distress at being there at all – as well as the discomfort of the 13-year-old child who doesn’t want to watch it or hear it either. It all points to the most stomach-churning of moments.

Unacceptable Driving home from Mayo later, I listened to the words of Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly who admitted that emergency department delays are “completely unacceptable”. He said there was a need to go hospital-by-hospital and emergency department by emergency department to find out what is going wrong. On hearing these words, we all sat up immediately in the car and were ready to offer an opinion!

Minister Donnelly was speaking at St Finbarr’s Health Campus in Cork city after reports of

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

lengthy delays for admission to emergency departments – but in truth he could have been anywhere.

Latest HSE figures show that people over the age of 75 are waiting an average of 24 hours to be admitted to emergency departments once they arrive at any hospital in the land.

Back in Castlebar, within a very short time the absolute honesty and professionalism of the staff member on duty for the assessment shone through.

“You might be better heading back to Roscommon County Hospital and the minor injuries unit there” our boy was told, confirming that it would be hours before the patient in our midst would even be X-rayed, let alone treated/admitted.

An hour and a half later, the young man in the Roscommon jersey was indeed back in the controversial building on the Athlone road, assessed in a private room, had completed his X-ray and had his diagnosis delivered. A break was indeed discovered and appropriate treatment arranged.

His ordeal was over. The treatment at the minor injuries unit in Roscommon was superb. The speed was incredible, and one was just left to wonder why the same could not be achieved at a major emergency unit at a modern acute hospital.

Throughout all of the above experiences, two things shone out at the weekend. In the first instance, the staff were professional, competent and very nice at all times – but the conditions were testing, traumatic and quite disturbing.

In these circumstances it is easy to see why so many of our young men and women with medical degrees are turning their back on our shores, and emigrating. One such doctor sat on the sofa in our home in Ballyleague on Sunday afternoon and confirmed this was the very reason he left – a combination of so many testing conditions on the ground, and a lack of investment, medical support and back-up combining to push him out the door.

Who could blame him?

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Cruinniú na nÓg

Roscommon Saturday 11th June

Free Events for Children & Young People

Local Events include

Ireland is the first, and only, country in the world with a national day of free creativity for young people.

Get the biodiversity buzz! Create bee bombs, make flower pots, plant seeds, build bird feeders and learn all about wildlife at these fun drop-in workshops at Loughnaneane Park.. cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie/events/location/roscommon

Cruinniú na nÓg is a flagship initiative of the Creative Ireland Programme.

Bee is for Biodiversity

Car Show Who needs a stage? Hop into the back seat of the car and watch actors perform short scenes in the front in these unique ‘car plays’ by Ballaghaderreen’s talented TY students. cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie/events/location/roscommon

Baby Weather 500+ free events cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie #CreativeIreland

With soothing sounds, sensory lighting, and an interactive environment, treat your little ones to this gentle, multi-sensory immersive experience by Little Nightingale in Roscommon Arts Centre. cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie/events/location/roscommon

National Events include Heritage Habitats — Historic Houses of Ireland Creativity, history, and the outdoors unite! Explore the gardens and wild areas of Birr Castle, Enniscoe House, Kilmokea Country Manor, and Killruddery House, with painting, foraging, cooking, and more. cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie

Dance Ireland Pop Up Dances Calling all dancers, young and young at heart! Share your favourite moves, take workshops, and watch incredible performances organized by Jeté Youth Dance Company in Amphitheatre. cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie

ISACS Circus Explored Ever dreamed of running away with the circus? You don’t have to! You can master the art of juggling from home with this fun programme presented by Ireland’s youth circus artists. cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie

Cruinniú na nÓg is a partnership of

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

TAKE A BREAK It’s been a GOOD week for…

Athlone and surrounding areas, with the long established Ericsson company announcing it will create 250 jobs at its Athlone plant over the coming three years Derry, Dublin, Galway and Kerry, with those four counties winning their respective provincial titles as the 2022 All-Ireland Senior Football Championship race gathers momentum La Rochelle and their passionate Irish coach Ronan O’Gara, with the French club winning their first ever Heineken Champions Cup, defeating Leinster courtesy of a last-minute try Record-breaking Real Madrid, who broke Liverpool hearts by winning Saturday’s Champions League final, this being the 14th time the Spanish club has reached the summit of European football

Minister of State Frank Feighan pictured with councillors and Roscommon Sports Partnership representatives, during his recent visit to Roscommon County Council to hear about the Roscommon Sports Partnership’s TY ‘On Your Bikes’ programme, funded through Healthy Ireland. Pic: Brian Farrell

Lisa O’Rourke (again), with Castlerea’s world boxing champion feted on the 60th anniversary Late Late Show on Friday night, then receiving an ovation during the half-time break in Sunday’s Connacht final, where Lisa had been invited to show her gold medal to the assembled spectators Householders and business people in the Glenamaddy area, with Irish Water and Galway County Council officially opening a €5m wastewater treatment plant there

It’s been a BAD week for…

Minister of State Frank Feighan recently visited Roscommon County Council to hear about the Roscommon Sports Partnership’s TY ‘On Your Bikes’ programme, funded through Healthy Ireland. Pic: Brian Farrell

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Pretty much everyone, with Taoiseach Micheál Martin advising Irish consumers that we’re into an era of ongoing high energy prices due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine (we knew this, but it’s going to get worse now that EU leaders understandably opted earlier this week to ban imports of two-thirds of Russian oil) The red-faced DAA (Dublin Airport Authority), which has been strongly criticised following a day of chaos at the airport on Sunday, with huge queues and long delays, culminating in an estimated 1,000 would-be passengers actually missing their flights

Famous birthdays ... this week

A frustrated Liverpool FC, with their treblewinning hopes dashed by Real Madrid, the English club – which has a huge fan base in Ireland – actually having most of the scoring chances in Saturday’s Champions League final, only to be thwarted by Real ‘keeper Thibaut Courtois

Angelina Jolie (American actress and humanitarian, turns 47 on Saturday)

Russell Brand (English comedian, will be 47 on Saturday)

Mark Wahlberg (American actor, celebrates 51st on Sunday)

Troye Sivan (Australian-South African singersongwriter, turns 27 on Sunday)

Minister of State Frank Feighan pictured with Roscommon Sports Partnership representatives, Roscommon TY students, and Cllr. Orla Leyden (Leas Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) during his recent visit to Roscommon County Council to hear about the Roscommon Sports Partnership’s TY ‘On Your Bikes’ programme, funded through Healthy Ireland. Pic: Brian Farrell

The French football authorities, and UEFA too, after chaotic scenes before the Champions League final in Paris led to huge queues, tear gas being used on crowds, kick-off being delayed, and a generally terrifying atmosphere for some supporters

2 Pictured are Laura Henderson, Amily Feeley and Sarah Murphy, Convent of Mercy, Roscommon, who were recently presented with their Roscommon Passports by Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Joe Murphy. Pic: Brian Farrell

Supporters pictured at the recent G&G Electric Junior Hurling Final between Tremane and Oran. Pic: Bernie Farrell

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

Word on the Tweets for town’s new-look streets! < DAN DOONER

Derek Fetherstone captured these bird’s eye views of Roscommon’s new-look Square recently. Pics courtesy of Derek Fetherstone

Submissions deadline for new Covered Civic Space < DAN DOONER

Plans for a Covered Civic Space on the new-look Square in Roscommon town have reached Part 8 with the deadline for public submissions and observations set for 5 pm on Thursday, June 9th.

The proposed plans involved the construction of a covered space with two roof lights and associated urban landscape elements north of the

Square between Bank of Ireland and the Stonecourt Centre.

Also proposed is a new covering to the historic well, incorporating a model display south of the Bank of Ireland as well as new permanent public seating.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Municipal District, Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher has called on the public to view the plans before next Thursday’s deadline.

“The plans and drawings can be seen on the Roscommon County Council website through the ‘Your Council’ portal and Part 8 plans,” she said.

“It’s important that people view the plans and make submissions should they wish to do so. I would encourage people to log on to www. roscommoncoco.ie as soon as they can,” she concluded.

Fingal County Council’s Director of Housing and Community Development, Robert Burns, has lavished praise on Roscommon town’s new-look Square.

Discussing the development on Twitter, Mr. Burns described the Square as “a transformation in layout and aesthetic, but more importantly a transformation in thinking around the design and use of our public spaces”.

Among the replies, Green TD for Limerick, Brian Leddin, said the Square was a “great improvement” but claimed the new bollards detracted from the outcome.

While many of the replies to the original tweet were positive, a number did highlight access issues for those with mobility issues.

Access For All Ireland tweeted: “We have family in Roscommon, we like the new layout but have asked the council to be cognisant of street furniture placement, a few adjustments and it will be a more accessible place to spend some time”.

The Struggle is Wheel (@struggleiswheel) also highlighted the issues caused by planters placed close to disabled parking spaces: “Roscommon County Council know these planters should not be near our door zone and yet they’re still there”.

News Editor with The Times and Sunday Times, Ben Haugh, raised the issue of seating: “Lovely! Needs more seating though. Anytime I’m in Barcelona I’m stunned at how many seats there are in every public space”.

While reaction to Roscommon’s new public space was generally favourable, there was some disquiet following confirmation in the Roscommon People last week that traffic would be returning to the west side of the Square.

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NewsPeople

Pa and Elaine Bowens Memorial Playground opened in Cloonfad < DAN DOONER

The community of Cloonfad came together last Sunday to open a memorial playground in honour of much-loved local couple, Pa and Elaine Bowens.

The playground, which is located at the Cloonfad United Football Club pitch on the Ballyhaunis Road, was built in memory of the young married couple and was officially opened last Sunday by their sons, Jason and Adam.

Pa Bowens died tragically in 2015 following an accident and his wife Elaine sadly passed away shortly after in 2017 following a recurrence of brain cancer.

Elaine had been secretary on a committee which had previously been set up in order to have a much-needed playground built in the area.

It was fitting then that the local community rallied together following her death in order to raise money to build the playground in the Bowens’ memory.

The community and surrounding areas including Roscommon, Mayo and Galway, led by the incredible force that is ‘Team

Stritch’, raised close to €120,000 to finish the work started by Elaine.

Pa and Elaine’s sons, Jason and Adam, officially opened the playground last Sunday while MayoRoscommon Hospice CEO Martina Jennings addressed the crowd before unveiling a plaque.

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Elaine’s sister and PRO of the Cloonfad Playground Committee, Kathie Stritch thanked all those who played their part in the project.

“There was a shockingly huge crowd there on Sunday given the circumstances with the Connacht final. I can only imagine what size the crowd would have been if the match hadn’t been on the same day,” she said.

“We were very lucky with the weather and it was a really good day. It was an emotional day but also very positive.

“We’d like to officially thank the Cloonfad community and surrounding areas and all those who played their part. This would not have been possible without you”.

Gospel Reflection Sunday, June 5th The giving of the Spirit to the new people of God crowns the mighty acts of the Father in salvation history.

The Jewish feast of Pentecost called all devout Jews to Jerusalem to celebrate their birth as God’s chosen people in the covenant Law given to Moses at Sinai (see Leviticus 23:15-21; Deuteronomy 16:9-11). In today’s First Reading, the mysteries prefigured in that feast are fulfilled in the pouring out of the Spirit on Mary and the Apostles (see Acts 1:14).

The Spirit seals the new law and new covenant brought by Jesus, written not on stone tablets but on the hearts of believers, as the prophets promised (see 2 Corinthians 3:2-8; Romans 8:2).

The Spirit is revealed as the life-giving breath of the Father, the Wisdom by which He made all things, as we sing in today’s Psalm. In the beginning, the Spirit came as a “mighty wind” sweeping over the face of the earth (see Genesis 1:2). And in the new creation of Pentecost, the Spirit again comes as “a strong, driving wind” to renew the face of the earth. As God fashioned the first man out of dust and filled him with His Spirit (see Genesis 2:7), in today’s Gospel we see the New Adam become a life-giving Spirit, breathing new life into the Apostles (see 1 Corinthians 15:45, 47).

Like a river of living water, for all ages He will pour out His Spirit on His body, the Church, as we hear in today’s Epistle (see also John 7:37-39). We receive that Spirit in the sacraments, being made a “new creation” in Baptism (see 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15). Drinking of the one Spirit in the Eucharist (see 1 Corinthians 10:4), we are the first fruits of a new humanity – fashioned from out of every nation under heaven, with no distinctions of wealth or language or race, a people born of the Spirit.

- Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon).

Truce period in Roscommon 100 years ago The accidental death of Colonel-Commandant Eugene Kelly June 3rd 2022 marks the centenary of the accidental shooting in Boyle military barracks of Eugene Kelly, from Lisacul, Castlerea. The incident, which caused the fatal death of the Commandant, happened when a handgun was accidentally discharged by a comrade – hitting Kelly in the head and causing him to die shortly afterwards.

Eugene Kelly was the son of Joseph and Bridget Kelly, Corracoggil, from Lisacul, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. After finishing his education locally, he went on to study in Galway University College, and graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering degree. He later obtained employment with the Congested Districts Board, an agency that was established to alleviate congested living conditions in the west of Ireland.

At the onset of the revolutionary period, Eugene joined the Irish Volunteers in his native Lisacul, and was elected to the position of Company Captain.

Due to his position as an engineer with the Congested Districts Board, Eugene was appointed Chief of Engineers with the 3rd battalion, South Ro-

scommon Brigade. This position necessitated him having to travel distances of 85 miles by bicycle, sometimes in pouring rain, to deliver lectures to volunteers. Eugene was later to hold the position of Brigade Chief of Engineers and was responsible for the development of a type of explosive which was accepted

by IRA headquarters in Dublin, who complimented him on his creation. After that, he was appointed to the position of Director of Engineering with the 3rd Western Division IRA. After the signing of the Treaty, Eugene was strongly opposed to the agreement. He took the anti-treaty republican position and was part of the IRA garrison that occupied Boyle military barracks in 1922.

In the period after the signing of the Treaty and before the outbreak of the civil war, both pro and anti-treaty forces were in control of the town of Boyle.

The Free State troops occupied Boyle Workhouse and the Republicans were in the military barracks. There was a situation of co-existence between the two diverse forces, both patrolling and keeping law and order

Pictured is Colonel-Commandant Eugene Kelly.

in the town. Officers of both sides often met and discussed the volatile state of affairs that

was unfolding in the country in the weeks leading up to the civil war.

It was during this time that Eugene Kelly was on duty in Boyle military barracks. On the night of his death, he had arranged a night patrol of three men to go out and patrol the streets. He was in the act of putting a belt and holster on a fellow volunteer when another member of the patrol was releasing the safety catch on a loaded handgun when it went off.

The bullet hit Eugene in the forehead, causing laceration of the brain and paralysis of the nerve system. He died minutes later. The evidence at the inquest into Kelly’s death heard that there was no animosity between the man who fired the gun and the deceased and that the discharging of the shot was completely accidental.

Eugene Kelly was described by an associate of his, writing at the time of his death, as having, “a bashful and unassuming nature, a boy-like simplicity, heroic-like courage, and Napoleonlike strength of will”. The writer went on to say, “Even his political enemies had to admire and respect his unselfish patriotism, the unmistakable sincerity of

his motives and his unswerving devotion to the ideals of a free and independent Ireland”.

Colonel-Commandant Kelly’s funeral took place from Boyle Military Barracks to Loughglynn. According to the local press, “Full military honours befitting the high rank of the deceased officer were given and were most impressive. An advance guard marched at slow march in front, and a guard of honour with arms reversed walked on each side of the coffin, which was borne on the shoulders of comrades. Next came a big party of IRA men – both anti and pro-treaty forces having most edifyingly united in paying honour to a gallant soldier and true-hearted lover of his country. Big numbers of people came from Ballaghaderreen, Lisacul, Frenchpark, Loughglynn and other towns to attend the funeral”.

Eugene Kelly was buried in Cuiltyboe cemetery, Loughglynn. He was twenty-six years old at the time of his death.

More articles later, An Staraí Áitiúil (The local historian)

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NewsPeople

Government still silent on future of post offices – TD

Supporters pictured at the recent G&G Electric Junior Hurling Final between Tremane and Oran. Pic: Bernie Farrell

Independent TD Denis Naughten has said that while the funding of €30 million announced this week for the post office network was welcome, the Government was still remaining silent on the future long-term sustainability of An Post.

Deputy Naughten was reacting to Minister Hildegarde Naughton’s announcement this week of an allocation of €10 million in funding each year from 2023 to 2025.

The Independent TD

said it was imperative that the Government provides more transactions through the post office network.

“This need for new Government business is vital not just to the survival of the existing post offices but to the retention of a post office in the local community when the postmaster/mistress retires,” he said.

“We have already had instances where there is nobody willing to take on the business of a closing post office because of the lack of a sustainable com-

“We would like to personally thank the Conboy family, the ticket sellers, all the people who donated auction items and raffle prizes, and everyone who attended this event and gave so generously.

“The raffle winners on the night were Michelle Rogers (€500), Adam Furey (one ewe lamb), Sandra Dolan (an overnight stay and spa treatment at Johnstown Estate), and Aaron Miley (€250 oil voucher).

We would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to Adam Furey, who generously returned funds from his prize to the fundraiser”.

The services provided within the local commu-

nity give support for a person at the time of a diagnosis in addition to their treatment. Such support can prove vital for their general wellbeing and recovery, including in many instances an ability to face a terminal diagnosis in a dignified and accepting way through the professional support of a body of voluntary carers across many different professions. The services provided are growing every year and Roscommon Cancer Support intend to develop it even more, as the benefits and the demand for the service grows within the community for this vital support.

mercial model. Government is key to addressing this through the transfer of offline routes for services such as motor tax, identification verification, driving licences, etc. to this vital network.

“It seems surprising to me that €30 million could be secured by Ministers Naughton and Ryan without conditions, in advance of the imminent report on putting new Government business through the post office network, unless the decision has already been

taken to abandon such an approach for new business.

“So, while short-term funding of €30 million is welcome, unless the report from the Inter-Departmental Group, which was established to examine the feasibility of additional Government services being provided through An Post and the post office network, does not commit to putting new business into the network then this week’s announcement is just kicking the can down the road”.

€11,460 presented to Roscommon Cancer Support after fundraiser A fundraising event for Roscommon Cancer Support took place in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett on Saturday night last. Roscommon Cancer Support is a nonprofit organisation that provides support and services that enhance recovery from cancer for individuals and their families.

Roscommon Cancer Support provides an ongoing range of services which are available by appointment.

These include counselling and psychotherapy, massage, reflexology, reiki therapy and nail and foot care.

It also provides a number

of well-being courses such as yoga, Pilates and meditation along with weekend workshops in horticulture and gardening and nutrition.

Whilst popular courses are delivered regularly, the team at Roscommon Cancer Support are continually trying to add to their service and adapt to the needs of service users. They are always open to feedback and would love to hear what you are interested in or would like to see on the service.

Like many not for profit organisations, Roscommon

Kevin Cribbin pictured presenting Aaron Miley with a voucher for €250, which he won in the Roscommon Cancer Support Fundraiser Draw, in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett, on Saturday night last. Pic: Mick McCormack

Cancer Support face challenges in achieving funding that not only allows the organisation to continue, but also to develop and grow.

A member of Roscommon Cancer Support commented: “It is only through the endless generosity of people like Martin Conboy and his family that charities such as ours around the country can provide this much-needed and vital work.

“The annual fundraising event has been running at Dec’s Bar since 2015.

Due to Covid-19 the event didn’t run in 2020 and 2021, but this year’s event was a huge success, raising €11,460.

A cheque presentation for €11,460 was made to Roscommon Cancer Support in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett on Saturday night last. Pictured are Michelle Rogers, Martin Conboy, Sarah Boyle (Roscommon Cancer Support), Ronnie Corcoran, Veronica Keaveney, Geraldine Conboy, Donal Hanly and Aaron Miley. Pic: Mick McCormack

John Hession pictured making a presentation to Adam Furey, who won two ewe lambs in the Roscommon Cancer Support Fundraiser Draw, in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett, on Saturday night last. Pic: Mick McCormack

Martin Conboy pictured presenting a cheque for €500 to Michelle Rogers, winner in the Roscommon Cancer Support Fundraiser Draw, in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett on Saturday night last. Pic: Mick McCormack

22

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

Representation vs anti-trans rhetoric: Netflix wants to have its cake and eat it too Let’s talk about ...

Netflix and LGBTQ media

(A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy Netflix is a streaming platform which, over the years, has received a lot of praise for being home to a host of LGBTQinclusive programming and representation.

LGBTQ representation that is accurate to people’s lived experiences and doesn’t resort to stereotyping or tokenism is something which is incredibly important in terms of breaking down barriers and giving a voice to long-silenced communities – as is the case when it comes to the representation of any other marginalised group. And so, back when Netflix was beginning to gain real momentum as a streaming service and put out shows like ‘Orange is The New Black’, they were praised for having diverse LGBTQ representation and storylines, the likes of which weren’t commonplace in traditional programming.

And Netflix’s platforming of LGBTQ-inclusive programming has continued to today – for example, with the release of the new series ‘Heartstopper’.

All this to say that you would think, given how long Netflix has benefitted from the posi-

tive reception of its pro-LGBTQ programming, that the company has some sort of understanding when it comes to the influence they wield with the viewpoints they platform.

This brings us to last week, when the release of Ricky Gervais’s new Netflix special ‘Supernature’ was met with controversy on the back of a series of jokes the British comedian makes about trans people and trans activists.

In the special, Gervais makes light of the use of preferred pronouns and talks about trans people using gender-specific bathrooms, making light of the harmful falsehood that trans women’s admittance into women’s bathrooms puts cis women under threat of sexual violence. Gervais moves to clarify his position after this, stating that in all actuality, he supports people’s right to transition… with the caveat that trans women “meet [him] halfway and lose the c*ck”.

Given the current climate around trans issues in Britain at the moment, most notably with trans people recently being excluded from anti-conversion therapy legislation, it

is extremely disappointing to see a major British comic make light of issues that have long been weaponised against the trans community, such as cis women being ‘unsafe’ in transinclusive bathrooms. Despite well-documented evidence that trans people are disproportionately more likely to be victims of sexual violence as opposed to the perpetrators, and despite all the damage that this falsehood about trans women being inherently sexually violent has done over the years, Gervais approaches the issue with a levity that, at best, demonstrates his complete lack of knowledge (or perhaps empathy) when it comes to the reality of trans struggles, and at worst, serves to invalidate real issues and normalise anti-trans rhetoric.

However, Gervais’s special is just the latest instance of a Netflix comedy show coming under fire for containing transphobic jokes. Dave Chappelle’s ‘The Closer’, which premiered on Netflix at the end of last year, faced similar backlash due to the derogatory jokes the comedian made at trans people’s expense.

It would seem that while Netflix is perfectly content to profit off LGBTQ media and being LGBT-friendly online, it is more than ready to forego its advocacy for the chance to get its hands on the increased interaction and free publicity that such controversial specials are bound to produce. Because no matter your opinion on the specials’ content, seeing how much controversy has been sparked by them draws in viewers who want to find out for themselves

Ricky Gervais’s new Netflix special is called ‘Supernature’.

what was said. And Netflix could use the viewership – despite being the biggest streaming platform out there, Netflix viewership has hit a plateau, recently reporting a loss in subscribers for the first time.

In the wake of the controversy, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos offered an unconvincing defence, arguing, “We have a strong belief that content on screen doesn’t directly translate to real-world harm”. But adopting this stance reads as incredibly disingenuous since it comes from a company that has benefitted for years off praise for recognising the importance of what viewpoints it represents. Netflix can accept the magnitude of its influence when being commended, but denies that same influence when under fire for using it ir-

responsibly. It’s Pride month, a time of celebration for the LGBTQ community, and of commemoration for LGBTQ history and the struggles that the community continues to face to this day. And unfortunately, one thing that’s come to be expected during this time is the large amount of companies who, despite not putting in any of the work to create more inclusive workspaces or support the community during the rest of the year, flock to social media to change their icons to rainbows and virtue-signal about their LGBTQ-advocacy for their own benefit.

Like them, Netflix wants to have its cake and eat it too.

They want their flowers for recognising the impact of showcasing LGBTQ-positive stories and continue to profit

off of them, while absolving themselves of the harm done by promoting specials that spout the same tired, uninformed, anti-trans rhetoric that has harmed the community for decades.

No doubt any Pride messaging to come out of Netflix in the coming weeks is bound to feel hollow coming hot on the heels of Gervais’s latest special. But at the end of the day, Gervais’s opinions on trans people is not what we should be focusing on; we should instead prioritise our attention on listening to trans voices and the voices of the wider LGBTQ community, because these are the people who have lived experiences of the issues at hand, and the ones who actually know what they are talking about.

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

Colm O’Regan @colmoregan Came out the jacks in my house there and immediately I was in a queue for Dublin Airport T1.

-One of the main talking points of the weekend (the queues at Dublin Airport, not Colm’s bathroom) Dr Harold News @DrHaroldNews BREAKING: Man contracts, then recovers from Monkeypox while waiting in Dublin Airport queue.

-The jokers were out in force…

Elaine Murphy @ElaineMurphy_ The #GAACatfish saga is the most chaotic Irish Pop Culture moment since Nadine Coyle

lied about her age on Popstars (and that’s a fact).

-There was lots of comment on The 2 Johnnies’ ‘GAA catfish’ story (as broadcast on their podcast) Seth Rogen @Sethrogen I can’t believe Ray Liotta has passed away. He was such a lovely, talented and hilarious person. Working with him was one of the great joys of my career and we made some of my favourite scenes I ever got to be in. A true legend of immense skill and grace.

-There were many tributes to the stylish, memorable actor Ray Liotta (of Goodfellas fame) who has sadly passed away (RIP) chris o’dowd @BigBoyler I applied for a job at Downing Street and they rejected me because they said I “wasn’t

enough craic”. #EtonMess -Roscommon’s Chris on missing out on all those parties…

Cormac O’Malley @cormacpro Hahaha the difference in the analysis on BBC and RTÈ is genuinely hilarious. BBC think its the best game ever, RTÈ are ripping it to shreds. #GAA -Ulster football never fails to attract debate…was it a classic (BBC) – or were the moody panellists in RTE-land right to tut-tut throughout their analysis?

Roscommon GAA @RoscommonGAA Well done to Ultan Harney and Colm Lavin who have deservedly been included in the GAA Football Team of the Week.

-Congrats lads, and best wishes to Roscommon in the qualifiers…

Ultan Harney (pictured on the ball in Sunday’s Connacht final) was superb on the day, the Clann man scoring 0-3 and excelling throughout the game. Ultan and goalkeeper Colm Lavin have been selected on the GAA Team of the Week. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

Who will be crowned 2022 Roscommon Rose this Sunday?

Pictured is Shannon Haugh, sponsored by Alexandra Dental & Orthodontic Centres and to be escorted

by Kevin Battles.

Ten ladies will take to the stage this Sunday (June 6th) at the Abbey Hotel in a bid to be crowned the 2022 Roscommon Rose, and to go forward to represent the county in the International Rose of Tralee Festival later this year.

Last weekend, the Roses and Escorts were treated to a marvellous fun-filled workout evening at Full Body Workhouse in Roscommon, followed by refreshments sponsored by Coffee House 45 in Longford.

The June Bank Holiday weekend will see each of the Roses go through an individual, group and

Pictured is Alysha Harpur, sponsored by Harpur Bros and to be escorted by Francesco Fabbi.

Pictured is Joanna Keegan, sponsored by Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon and to be escorted by Declan Codd.

stage interview in front of three judges. The compere at the selection is radio presenter and DJ Fergal D’Arcy, who will conduct the stage interview with each of the Roses.

The main sponsor for the event are Callington Ltd. under the guidance of Martin Conneally and the Drea family in Tullamore. Tickets for the event are available by contacting the committee through the Roses, Escorts or Facebook.

“Everyone is looking forward to the event and once again the standard of competitors is extremely high,” states Roscommon Rose

Pictured is Ailish Diffley, sponsored by MacMull Plant Hire and to be escorted by Darren Galvin.

Centre chairperson and co-coordinator, Yvonne Corrigan Donohue.

“It is fantastic that again this year, our Roscommon Rose will get to experience the International Festival in Tralee and take part in the live televised finals.

“One again, the support from businesses throughout the County of Roscommon is absolutely fantastic and is testament to how highly regarded the Roscommon Rose of Tralee event is”.

The Roscommon Rose Team wish all the 2022 Roses and Escorts the very best of luck in the competition.

Pictured is Katie Brandon, sponsored by VDE Plumbing and to be escorted by Paddy Kilmartin.

Pictured is Miriam Hastings, sponsored by Rosmed Pharmacy and to be escorted by John Neilan.

Pictured is Shannon Sullivan, sponsored by McGowan Accountancy and to be escorted by Dylan Kane.

Pictured is Heidi Harte, sponsored by Connaughton Auctioneers and to be escorted by Ronan Mockler.

Pictured is Bernie Ryan, sponsored by Roscommon Racecourse and to be escorted by John Donnolly.

Pictured is Lisa Flanagan, sponsored by Ballinagare Health and Leisure Centre and to be escorted by Ciaran Lavin.

National awards for Roscommon students at Enterprise Finals

Students from Roscommon have taken home four prizes at this year’s Student Enterprise Programme National Finals.

The finals of the Local Enterprise Office initiative were held physically for the first time in three years at the Helix in Dublin with An Tánaiste Leo Varad-

kar and host, RTÉ’s Rick O’Shea, with students and teachers in attendance from all over the country.

Supported by Local Enterprise Office Roscommon, Cupán Cozies (Convent of Mercy, Roscommon) won Most Effective Social Media Campaign in the

The Cupan Cozies team of Emma O’Farrell, Eva Rogers, and Anna Gooney from Convent of Mercy, Roscommon with teacher Edel Connolly.

Senior Category. The winning students were Emma O’Farrell, Eva Rogers and Anna Gooney, who worked under the guidance of their teacher, Edel Connelly.

Cattle Trailer Safety Bar (Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown) took home two

Grace McDermott, GMD Designs from St. Nathy’s College, Ballaghaderreen with teacher Karen Munnelly, and Eilis Mullooly, Local Enterprise Office Roscommon.

prizes: Best Commercial Potential and the Intellectual Property Award in the Intermediate Category. The winning student was Sean McCormack, under teacher Suzanne Lohan.

In the ‘My Entreperneurial Journey’ Competition (Intermediate), GMD De-

signs won third prize for St. Nathy’s College, Ballaghaderreen. Grace McDermott was the winning student under teacher Karen Munnelly.

An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, who took part in the ceremony, congratulated the students.

Sean McCormack, Cattle Trailer Safety Bar, Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown with An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, Chair of the Local Enterprise Office Network, Padraig McElwee and representative from Intellectual Property Office of Ireland.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

HOMEandGARDEN

My seven stress-busting home improvement tips! < MIRIAM KERINS

According to research carried out by Aviva Insurance Ireland, 1.5 million homeowners across the country spent over €11 billion over the past year making improvements to their properties.

While this trend was likely driven by the lockdown, we’ve got no doubt it’s set to continue, meaning it’s possible that thousands of Roscommon homeowners, driven by a desire for comfort and to increase the value of their homes are, this summer, planning to renovate, upgrade, restore and modernise their residences. Fair play to them because carrying out home improvements can be a real tension-builder; I’m still suffering from stressfatigue following last week’s decision regarding what colour I’d paint the outside windowsills and frames! (Slate grey if anyone’s interested).

Therefore, if you’re planning to embark on carrying out some home improvements, even if it’s only freshening up the exterior walls and window frames and sills, because I know how essential it is to get everything right, I’ve put together my own seven stress-busting tips; I hope you’ll find them useful.

1. If you’re on a budget, why not begin by carrying out a ‘quick fix’. We all know that older properties tend to lack storage space, therefore, turning tricky cavities or sloped alcoves into usable areas by simply decluttering them, painting them, and adding shelving, you could create a customised wardrobe, a reading area, a den for you when you’re working from home, or a TV room for the kids.

2. Perhaps your bathroom is looking tired? If so, (while still on that tight budget), maybe replacing

taps and shower systems, or replacing the toilet bowl and brightening up the walls, are all that this room needs to make it Insta-worthy!

3. If money’s no object, then, as this could be one of the largest spends of your adult life, I suggest you consult the experts.

A designer or an architect etc., will not simply help you to prepare and plan, they’ll also help you to budget, as in, they’ll soon give you advice around what is and what isn’t realistic when you begin eating into that generous home improvement loan from your credit union or bank.

4. If you plan to hire a builder, make sure they’re registered with the Construction Industry Register Ireland at ciri.ie.

This is an online register of competent builders and trades-persons and it’s supported by the government. When you’ve

chosen your builder, ask for references, then follow up by speaking to their referees in person and ask if you can pop in to view their work.

5. If you plan to hire a particular builder, ask if they’ll be ‘on site’ every day and if not, then meet with their foreperson and

Summer

ask what his/her day-today timetable/list of tasks will consist of when dealing with your renovations.

6. Call me pedantic, but I’d also insist on seeing your builder’s public liability insurance to make sure it’s sufficient and up to date, and I’d ask him/ her for a full warranty.

7. Wait until your major renovations are fully completed before committing to buying items such as sofas or beds, curtains or shower rails, etc. I suggest you focus on the fixtures and fittings like new windows, doors, floors or wall tiling, etc., because if these are wrong, it’s going to

cost you to put them right; so keep the soft furnishings and the accessories’ budget until the very end… then splurge!

To see if you may be eligible for a home improvement grant or individual home energy upgrade grant, log onto citizensinformation.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

HOMEandGARDEN

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According to national organisers, Roscommon hosted six ‘Street Feasts’ in 2019 as registration opens for this year’s popular community event on Sunday, June 26th.

Street Feast is Ireland’s national day of lunches and one of the country’s most successful community initiatives for over a decade. The aim of Street Feast is to build neighbourhood and community networks and tackle social isolation.

In 2019, over 1,000 feasts took place, and this year Street Feast is aiming to grow that to 1,200 as organisers feel there is a real appetite for this type of event since Covid-19.

Sam Bishop, founder of Street

Feast said: “Since the last Street Feast three years ago, and after two years of restrictions and lockdowns, our notion of community has altered immeasurably.

“For some, it was an opportunity to bond with neighbours as lockdown restrictions kept us at home more than ever before.

Neighbours and community were never more important and people realised the value of local connections. This year Street Feast wants to celebrate those strengthened community connections and create a space for people to re-engage safely with their neighbours”.

96 per cent of Street Feast participants in 2019 said their sense of belonging to the neighbourhood

increased after that feast and 97 per cent said their neighbourhood was friendlier after the event.

81 per cent even made plans for more community projects since their feast.

“Numerous studies have shown that social isolation is a risk factor for loneliness which itself is associated with an increased risk of poor health, low wellbeing and mortality,” Sam added.

“Street Feast has huge benefits in terms of reducing social isolation and creating a sense of belonging.

We are calling on more people to get involved this year and celebrate these connections by feasting together in person”.

Street Feast 2022 is supported by the Department of Rural & Com-

munity Development and Local Authorities.

This year Street Feast is teaming up with community engagement platform ChangeX through the LEGO Foundation’s Build a World of Play campaign to bring more play, more fun and more energy to Street Feasts. Street Feast is supporting the Build a World of Play campaign by providing 200 Playful Street Feast PlayBoxes containing games, activities and resources to bring a fresh playful energy to your street and involve people of all ages in the festivities.

For further details and to register and obtain a Street Feast pack log onto www.streetfeast.ie, @ streetfeast, www.facebook.com/ streetfeast.

National Food Waste Recycling Week continues National Food Waste Recycling Week, a new national campaign by MyWaste.ie, continues until Bank Holiday Monday (June 6th) and households and businesses are encouraged to recycle food waste.

A previous study by the Environmental Protection Agency found that approximately 50 per cent of household organic waste was being disposed of in the wrong bins. By segregating food waste correctly, it can be transformed into renewable

energy and bio-fertilisers for horticulture and agricultural use.

Minister Ossian Smyth, Minister of State with responsibility for Public Procurement, eGovernment and Circular Economy said: “National Food Waste Recycling Week is a wonderful opportunity to create awareness of how important it is that we recycle our food waste, so that it can be put to further crucial use, as fuel and biofertiliser for example.

Food waste is a significant

contributor to carbon emissions, adding to climate change”.

“The best way to address this is to try to cut down on food waste in the first place. But it is inevitable that there will almost always be food matter left over in homes and businesses so recycling it means that it does not just go to landfills, it becomes a useful resource instead, contributing positively to the growth of Ireland’s bio-economy”.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

HOMEandGARDEN

Roscommon Credit Union welcomes new loan and e-signature service Members of Roscommon Credit Union, both new and existing, can now avail of a preferential welcome loan for a limited time.

If you are new to the Credit Union or an existing member who hasn’t borrowed in a while, and are in need of flexible finance, speak to us today about our

welcome loan. Members can borrow up to €75,000 and spread the cost over three to ten years! So, whether it’s home or garden improvements, a new car, or a family holiday, we have you covered.

Not a member? Not a problem! Join today and apply for a loan straight

away! Just visit roscommoncu.ie/Join to learn more.

New E-Signature Service

We have now made it easier for members to borrow online with the introduction of a new e-signature service. Members regis-

tered for online banking, can apply for a loan via the roscommoncu.ie website, upload supporting documents, and once the loan has been approved, digitally sign their credit agreement, with funds transferred electronically to a member’s Credit Union/ bank account. There is no

need to visit us in branch; members can apply for a loan from the comfort of their own home, at a time that suits them. To calculate repayments, enquire, and apply for a loan online, visit roscommoncu. ie today!

Members must be registered for online account access to avail of our complete online loan process. To register, call 0906626657 or visit roscommoncu.ie/Register.

How to apply

Members can apply for a loan online, in-person in any of our three branch offices (Roscommon, Elphin, Strokestown), or by phone. To speak to our loans team today call 0906626657, or alternatively, email loans@roscommoncu.ie.

Reasons to borrow from Roscommon CU

No matter the reason to borrow, we will tailor a personal loan to suit you and your needs. As a valued member, you can trust

‘Move from fossil fuels and upgrade your home’ With the cost of fuel continuing to rise, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is encouraging homeowners to insulate their homes and move away from fossil fuel boilers with an energy efficient heat pump system.

This process has now become even easier with the new One Stop Shop service offering a wider range of Government grants, which have recently been increased to support homeowners carrying out home energy upgrades.

According to Susan Andrews with SEAI, improving your home energy offers a long-term return on investment and is more affordable than ever with increased grants from SEAI covering up to 50 per cent of the cost of works, and up to

80 per cent for attic and cavity wall insulation.

“Research shows that home energy upgrades can increase the value of a home by 1 per cent for each step of improvement on the BER scale.

Homeowners will experience a range of benefits including increased comfort and a warmer, healthier home, while saving on their monthly energy bills,” she said.

Andrews went on to emphasise the real benefits of the One Stop Shop service: “For homeowners looking to carry out multiple upgrades in one go, they should consider the One Stop Shop service. This grant option offers a complete home energy upgrade solution where a One Stop Shop manages your project from start

to finish, including your grant application,” she said.

“The benefit for the homeowner is that they will have one point of contact managing their entire project, making it hassle-free. They will also get the grant value up front and will only have to fund the cost of works minus the grant”.

Currently, an estimated 50 per cent of Irish homes are only reaching a BER rating of ‘D’ or lower, which means many Irish homeowners are losing out on comfort and savings.

With energy costs rising, upgrading your home can help in the long-term to reduce your energy costs. Homeowners who invest in a home energy upgrade quickly feel the benefits of increased comfort and reduced energy bills.

you’re getting a highly personalised service, a straightforward loan with flexible repayment options, and no charges, sneaky conditions, or penalties for early repayment.

A loan with built-in insurance at no cost to you, and the ability to top up your loan or take out a second loan at any time. Visit ro-

scommoncu.ie to view our great rate loans, member benefits and services. *The welcome loan is valid until July 31st 2022.

Borrow from €3,000 up to €75,000, with a loan term of three to ten. Repayments by direct debit only.

Terms and conditions apply. Loans are subject to approval.

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Limited Offer, valid until 31st July 2022. Loan repayments by direct debit only.

Loans are subject to approval. Terms & Conditions apply.

Roscommon Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

SUNNY SALTHILL! FANS AT THE FINAL… Roscommon supporters pictured at Pearse Stadium on Sunday for the 2022 Connacht Senior Football final. Photo: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

Lorraine and Jamie O’Grady pictured in Salthill ahead of Sunday’s Connacht final. Pic: Mick McCormack

SUNNY SALTHILL! FANS AT THE FINAL… Winner alright! Leah Rogers pictured in Salthill on Sunday for the Roscommon-Galway match. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon supporters pictured at Pearse Stadium on Sunday for the 2022 Connacht Senior Football final. Photo: Mick McCormack

Maisie and Pat Casey (Ballinameen) pictured in Salthill ahead of Sunday’s Connacht final. Pic: Mick McCormack

Rossie supporters pictured in Salthill on Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

At the wheel! Angela and Alannah Quirke pictured with Ann and Tommy Watson on ‘The Prom’ in Salthill before last Sunday’s Connacht final. Pic: Mick McCormack

Jamie Mulleady, Padraig Durr, Gary Grady and Eoin Madden pictured on ‘The Prom’ in Salthill before Sunday’s Connacht final. Pic: Mick McCormack

Kilglass Gaels on tour! Kilglass Gaels members and supporters pictured in ‘The Office’ in Salthill ahead of Sunday’s Connacht final. Pic: Mick McCormack

Western Gaels supporters Henry Greevy, Willie Casey, Charlie Kenny, Rebecca Casey, Catherine Casey and Michael McGarry pictured in Salthill for Sunday’s Connacht final. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

GOING OUT

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

Anthony O’Grady and Jimmy Ali pictured with Brendan Garvey at his 40th birthday bash in Morelli’s Restaurant in Ballaghaderreen recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Siobhan Garvey, Margaret Anne Garvey, Ellen and Grainne Forrest pictured at Brendan Garvey’s 40th birthday bash in Morelli’s Restaurant in Ballaghaderreen recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Brendan Garvey pictured celebrating his 40th birthday with family and friends in Morelli’s Restaurant in Ballaghaderreen recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

(Right) Sarah Boyle, Ronnie Corcoran, and Donal Hanly pictured in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett, on Saturday night last. Pic: Mick McCormack

(Below) John and Sean Moylan pictured with Barry and Aaron Miley in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett, on Saturday night last. Pic: Mick McCormack

Pictured at the Roscommon Races recently were Brian and Grainne Quigley and Declan Hynes. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races recently were Catherine and Oliver Comer. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

31

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

Roderic O’Conor Conference takes place this September The Roscommon County Council Arts Office are delighted to announce the programme for the Roderic O’Conor Conference 2022, which is the first of its kind being held in artist O’Conor’s native County Roscommon.

The conference will be held from Friday, September 23rd, with an opening reception at Clonalis House, Castlerea, followed by a full day’s conference proceedings on Saturday, September 24th, at Roscommon Arts Centre, and finally, the unveiling of public/historic information panel at Castleplunkett on Sunday, September 25th.

The conference programme will feature a range of international, national, and local speakers, including lecturers and art historians such as Jonathan Benington, Roy Johnson, Dr. Kieran O’Conor, Pyers O’Conor

Nash, Roisin Kennedy, Jody Moylan, Caroline Boyle Turner, Jessica Fahy and Ian Whtye.

They will explore the life and career of this remarkable artist, from his birth at Milltown, Co. Roscommon in 1860, his family history, his own artwork collection, his development as an artist, his styles and collaborations, up to his death in 1940. The programme will also examine his value and legacy.

This is a wonderful opportunity at a very local level to hear a range of presentations, which focus on research conducted, a reappraisal of his influence and outlining new insights into O’Conor’s life and work.

The conference is part of the Roscommon County Council’s Creative Ireland Programme and coincides with events for Culture Night 2022.

Full details of the confer-

Luke McGrath (James), Gabriella Skinner (Claire), Keeva Grady (Erin), Niamh Davey (Orla) and Nikita Regan (Michelle) pictured taking part in St Nathy’s recent student production of ‘Derry Girls’. Pic: Mick McCormack

Pictured is artist Roderic O’Conor, a Roscommon native.

ence programme, schedule and booking are available through Roscommon Arts Centre website, roscommonartscentre.ie, and at roscommonco.ie/en/services/Arts.

Further information can also be found by contacting Roderic O’Conor

Conference Committee 2022 Chairperson Richie Farrell (email amgrf1@ outlook.com or phone 087-0556562), or from committee members Kieran O’Conor, Pyers O’Conor Nash, Jody Moylan, Daniel Curley and Cllr. Liam Callaghan.

New York Parade champion Hilary to open Boyle Arts Festival The Boyle Arts Festival committee is delighted to announce that Hilary Beirne will officially open this year’s festival on Thursday, July 14th.

The event, which will take place at King House in Boyle, will also mark the official opening of this year’s Visual Art Exhibition entitled ‘Past, Present & Future’.

Boyle Arts Festival will continue until July 23rd.

Hilary (formerly of Oatland Villa, Boyle) is well known for his extensive work with the Irish community in the United States. He is the founder and Chairman of NYC St. Patrick’s Day Foundation and has been the principal orchestrator of the world’s largest and oldest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City.

He is an active member of the ‘Irish Ad Hoc’ Committee in Washington DC, a member of the Executive Board at VotingRights.ie, an honorary member of the famed ‘Fighting 69th Regiment’ and serves as a member of the Advisory Board of the 69th Historical Trust.

Hilary said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been invited to play an active role by the organising committee of the Arts Festival in my home town of Boyle in Co. Roscommon.

“It will be an honour for me to welcome everyone to the town of Boyle and open the festival on July 14th and I am looking forward to meeting old friends and renewing acquaintances, some of whom I haven’t seen or spoken to in years”.

Hilary will also be the special guest of RTÉ News journalist, Carole Coleman during this year’s ‘In Conversation’ event on Friday, July 22nd and tickets are available now at www.boylearts.com.

Boyle Arts Festival is supported by The Arts Council, local sponsors, Roscommon Co. Council and Fáilte Ireland.

Joseph Noonan (Joey), Billy Flynn (Chandler), Emma Mahon (Rachel), Kirsty McCoy (Monica) and Conor Walsh (Ross) pictured taking part in St Nathy’s student production of ‘Friends’. Pic: Mick McCormack

Chloe Gallagher, Caoimhe Duffy, Jane Henry, Aoibheann Maloney and Holly Fitzgerald pictured performing in St Nathy’s student production of ‘Friends Actually’ in St Nathy’s College. Pic: Mick McCormack

Ella Coleman, Anna Hughes, Holly Murray and Amy Sharkey pictured performing in St Nathy’s student production of ‘Friends Actually’ in St Nathy’s College. Pic: Mick McCormack

32

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

FarmingPeople Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS ALL STOCK PRE BOOKED. YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. 3 RINGS IN OPERATION. ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M.

IFA will not sign up to ‘cap and trade’ model IFA President Tim Cullinan has said IFA will not support exploring a ‘cap and trade’ model for emissions, as proposed in the Dairy Food Vision Group interim report.

“The reality is: this is a quota by another name which IFA is completely opposed to,” he said.

“We are also opposed to the proposal to force farmers to cut inorganic ferti-

liser use by 22 per cent to 25 per cent by 2025, and by 30 per cent by 2030.

“The current target, as set out by the Minister in AgClimatise and subsequently included in the

NOTICE TO SELLERS

SELLERS WILL BE ADVISED OF THE SELLING TIME OF THEIR ANIMALS, AND ALL SELLERS ARE ASKED TO COME INTO THE MART TO SELL THEIR LIVESTOCK. SELLERS THAT DO NOT COME INTO THE MART TO SELL THEIR STOCK ARE ADVISED THAT STOCK SOLD ON THE MARKET SUBJECT TO SELLERS CONSENT WILL BE MARKED SOLD UNLESS CANCELLED BY THE SELLER WITHIN A HALF HOUR OF THE HAMMER. SELLERS ARE ADVISED THAT THEY MUST CONTACT MART OFFICE TO CANCEL THE SALE.

For Enquiries Please Contact Mart Office Or Visit Our Website For Details.

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IFA President Tim Cullinan

Farmers have to see benefits of reaching BVD targets - IFA IFA Animal Health Chairman TJ Maher said farmers have invested directly over €100 million in the BVD programme since it commenced voluntarily in 2012, before becoming compulsory in 2013.

He said the actions of suckler and dairy farmers and their investments in the BVD programme have achieved this significant milestone in having the programme approved by the Commission under the EU Animal Health Law. “However, targets have to be met by the end of this year, which the programme is very much on track to achieve. There will then be an acceptance process from the EU’s perspective which will likely run to a number of months before official free status is granted,” he added.

The IFA Animal Health Chairman said the substantive issue is the type of testing programme that will apply in 2023 in the first instance. It’s likely the majority of calves will be born before free status is granted, if the targets are met by the end of this year.

“There is also the issue of vaccination being prohibited and only allowed in exceptional circumstances when free status is granted, which means the proof of freedom testing approach that will come into play must also provide an effective case detection tool,” he said.

He said failure to conclude the BVD programme in a satisfactory way for farmers will have long term reputational damage for AHI with farmers and it is important this is avoided.

overall Food Vision report is to reduce inorganic fertiliser use by 20 per cent by 2030. This is already a challenging target and we will not support any further tightening of this”.

On the proposed cow exit/ reduction scheme, Tim Cullinan said IFA were willing to have further engagement on condition that any such scheme would be 100 per cent publicly funded; will not lead to restrictions on any farmer who does not sign up to the scheme; and that other farming sectors are fully consulted.

The IFA President said the organisation would support the other 14 recommendations in the report which were consistent with IFA’s overall policy of reducing emissions per unit of output rather than restricting output.

“Irish farmers are playing our part on climate action but we must have

evidence-based policy making. There must be full economic and social impact assessment of any proposed measures; a full calculation of potential carbon leakage; and full measurement of on-farm carbon removals,” he said.

“In addition, the new methodology for calculating the Global Warming Potential of Biogenic methane, as referenced in the Climate Act must be factored into decision making.

“Overall, the focus of the Government in reducing farm output and by extension food production is wrong. Every serious global organisation from the UN to the G7 has indicated the serious threat to global food security. Yet our Government is trying to curtail production in a country that is fortunate to have one of the best climates in the world for producing food,” he concluded.

Castlerea MART WATCH 600 animals presented for sale this week with trade and prices holding extremely well with a good attendance of buyers present in all three rings anxious to source stock.

Forward stores in both the bullock and heifer rings attracted a lot of attention this week with bullocks making up to €2,370 and heifers reaching €2,440 while the dry cows peaked at €2,540.

The weanling rings witnessed an excellent clearance while the calf trade witnessed improved prices this week while the cows with calves at foot reached €2,400.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1,330 to €2,400 for a six-year-old Limousin cow and her Limousin heifer calf at foot. Springers made from €710 to €1,880. There were 65 calves on offer with good demand from farmers, exporters and agents and lots making from €40 to €570 for a Charolais bull.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday, June 2nd) with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Sample prices for bullocks: Lm 480kgs €1700, Ch 440kgs €1510, Ch 425kgs €1470, Lm 545kgs €1790, AAx 510kgs €1580, Ch 580kgs €2000, Lm 595kgs €1900, Lm 630kgs €1980, Lm 695kgs €2370, AA 720kgs €2160, Ch 675kgs €2000, Lm 660kgs €1980, AA 580kgs €1800.

Heifers: Sim 425kgs €1350, Ch 415kgs €1350, Lm 420kgs €1280, AA 420kgs €1270, Lm 480kgs €1560, Lm 460kgs €1440, Lm 705kgs €2440, Lm 690kgs €2360, Lm 550kgs €2060, Lm 565kgs €1960, Lm 535kgs €1870, Ch 440kgs €1390.

Dry cows: Ch 840kgs €2480, AA 825kgs €2360, Sim 725kgs €2170, Lm 695kgs €2120, Sim 415kgs €1140, Ch 460kgs €1240, Fr 490kgs €1110, Hex 620kgs €1510.

Weanling bulls: Lm 260kgs €940, Lm 215kgs €830, Lm 255kgs €790, Lm 355kgs €1250, Ch 345kgs €1200, Lm 445kgs €1370, Ch 200kgs €640, Ch 370kgs €1140.

Weanling heifers: Ch 275kgs €910, Ch 260kgs €850, Lm 280kgs €830, LM 360kgs €1250, AA 355kgs €1080, Lm 345kgs €1060, Lm 275kgs €870, Ch 415kgs €1190, Lm 415kgs €1180.

33

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Farming/NewsPeople

Dolan welcomes €700k for Agricultural Shows Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan has welcomed €700,000 in funding for agricultural shows, announced recently by Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys.

Commenting on the announcement, Senator Dolan said: “This year we are seeing people being able to gather again after two years of the pandemic and people have really missed coming together for the local fairs and shows.

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan.

“This funding from Minister Heather Humphreys as part of the Our Rural Future strategy will support the show committees and give a boost to towns and farming in the west.

“It will be good to see rosettes being pinned this year in County Roscommon with the first agricultural show starting in Castlerea on August 1st followed by Boyle (Sunday, August 14th), Roscommon (Saturday, August 20th), Elphin (Sat-

urday, August 27th), and Strokestown (September 10th).

The Athlone show on June 19th and Ballinasloe show on Sunday, September 25th are also of great interest. And of course the opportunity to shop local and support our local crafts, artisan and food entrepreneurs. These shows bring back music, arts, vintage car and tractors – there really is something of interest for everyone and a great day out for families”.

Stakeholder involvement is critical in EU Biodiversity strategy says INHFA Following the announcement

by Minister Malcolm Noonan that Ireland will submit proposals to the EU Commission on the EU Biodiversity Strategy by the end of this year, the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) have called for full stakeholder engagement in correspondence with the Minister.

Speaking on this, National President Vincent Roddy outlined how the EU Biodiversity Strategy which was launched in May 2020 “will be of critical

importance to farming and rural Ireland which is why it has to be got right”.

The EU Biodiversity Strategy outlines demands that if applied will see the area of land designated as special area of conservation (SAC) and special protected areas (SPA) increase from 13 per cent to 30 per cent.

In addition to this, the strategy also details the requirement for a new designation type called strictly protected on a minimum of 10 per cent of our land area.

Roddy stated: “The SAC and SPA designations have impacted heavily on landowners, due mainly to the restrictions applied under the 38 Activities Requiring Consent (ARCs).

“In addition to these restrictions the lack of engagement by the State, which has seen the majority of farmers still awaiting first correspondence and a management plan, some twenty five years after their lands were designated, has actually undermined the habitat status of many of these designated sites”.

In their letter to Minister Noonan the INHFA called for “full engagement, especially with those that will be most impacted such as our farmers and local rural communities”. They went on to call for a process similar to the one adopted by the Department of Agriculture when developing Ireland’s CAP Plan.

A process similar to this the letter stated “is vital, prior to the finalization of any submission from Ireland on the EU Biodiversity Strategy”.

Roscommon MART WATCH There were good numbers of excellent quality cattle on offer with a brisk trade for all stock.

Bullocks averaged from €3.01 per kilo up to €3.80 per kilo. Heifers fetched from an average of €2.69 per kilo up to €3.08 per kilo. Dry cows made from an average of €2.64 per kilo up to €3.24 per kilo. There were plenty of customers in attendance with buyers also active on line.

Numbers on offer at Wednesday’s sheep sale were similar to the previous week with a similar trade for all classes. Hoggets made up to €176, spring lambs went as high as €196 for 72kgs while stag ewes fetched up to €196. Ewes and lambs, meanwhile, made up to €495 for one ewe with one lamb at foot (Spotted Dutch Ewe with Spotted Dutch Ewe lamb).

Next sheep sale takes

place on Wednesday, June 8th at 11 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set.. Yard opens at 8 am and alll stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www.livestocklive.com.

Sample prices for heifers: Char X 545kgs €1680, €555 kgs €1600, HEX 640kgs €1600, Lim X 485kgs €1360, Lim X 425kgs €1180, Lim X 330kgs €890, HEX 380kgs €740.

Bullocks: Char X 810kgs €2740, Char X 730kgs €2680, 6 Char X 740kgs €2680, 2 Char X 707kgs €260, Char X 700kgs €2600, 2 AAX 640kgs €1950, Char X 540kgs €1960, Char X 585kgs €1810, Char X 580kgs €1800, Lim X 500kgs €1520, Char X 505kgs €1700, Char X 475kgs €1520, Char X 310kgs €1180, AAX

370kgs €1120, 3 Char X 421kgs €1140, AAX 415kgs €1280, Char X 470kgs €1380, Lim X 430kgs €1300.

Dry cows: Lim X 795kgs €2580, AAX 805kgs €2430, Lim X 735kgs €2260, Lim X 690kgs €2190, Char X 770kgs €2180, Lim X 575kgs €1500, Char X 750kgs €2080, AAX 685kgs €1850, Lim X 660kgs €2000, AAX 595kgs €1450, HEX 545kgs €1440, Char 520kgs €1450.

Finished hoggets: 86kgs €176, 64kgs €172, 68kgs €167, 50kgs €166, 48kgs €140.

Spring lambs: 72kgs €196, 55kgs €186, 53kgs €182, 49.5kgs €178, 50kgs €176, 48.4kgs €176, 44kgs €176, 46.1kgs €175, 47.5kgs €175, 44.5kgs €174, 46kgs €172, 45.5kgs €170, 44.5kgs €169, 44kgs €167.

(Proudly serving farmers for over 62 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday, June 3rd at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers Also Bullocks, Dry Cows, Weanlings & Suckler Cows 23 pens of Heifers on offer ---------------------------------Friday, June 10th at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks

Tinder for cows? You’re having a calf!

With the nickname ‘Tinder for Cows’, a matchmaking service is giving farmers the opportunity to swipe left and right to find the perfect mate for their cows - producing offspring which deliver more valuable milk or beef and in the case of dairy cows - less emissions per litre of milk.

Fundamentally a dating service for cows, Sire Advice works through the national database of information such as weight, fertility, ancestry, milk production and quality – but sadly not music or film preferences – to help farmers match the right cow with the right bull using the breeding application. This information can then be transmitted to farmer-used Apps and AI technician devices to ensure the best and balanced matings are made by Irish dairy females.

More than 4,000 farmers are currently using Sire Advice, which is part of the HerdPlus service, developed by the ICBF and based on research from the world-leading SFI research centre VistaMilk, based in Co Cork. Usage has steadily increased with new innovations being added regularly to this unique bovine matchmaker.

Donagh Berry, Director of VistaMilk, said: “It might sound amusing to have a service which is a sort of Tinder for cows, but the technology delivers very serious economic, social, and environmental benefits.

“Our findings to date show that these breeding activities alone are reducing emissions per litre of milk by close to 1 per cent per annum, with a 14 per cent reduction in the last two decades.”

Dan O’Riordan of ICBF Said: “HerdPlus has benefits across both the beef and dairy industries. By generating higher genetic merit females for farmers, this will help future dairy profitability and help breed more sustainable dairy cows for future generations with a reduced impact on the environment.

“The new beef-on-dairy mating options in Sire Advice will help maximise the beef potential of dairy-beef calves born and will facilitate better overall integration of the dairy and beef systems in Ireland.

“For consumers, it means they continue to have access to high-quality, affordable, nutritious dairy and beef products secure in the knowledge that they are produced sustainably.

“And let’s not forget the cows themselves – they are more efficient, more productive and individually emit less biogenic methane per litre of milk thus helping to achieve the nation’s climate goals”.

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, June 6th

Also Heifers, Dry Cows, Weanlings & Suckler Cows ----------------------

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

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

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18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

34

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Business

Irish Water opens new state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant in Glenamaddy It’s a historic week for Glenamaddy as Irish Water and Galway County Council officially opened a new state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant following a €5 million investment.

The new infrastructure will ensure that treated wastewater is now fully compliant with EU Urban Wastewater Directives before being safely discharged back into the natural environment.

At a special event in recent days to mark the occasion, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr.

Peter Keaveney welcomed the significant investment

by Irish Water.

“I’m delighted to be here to witness the official opening of Glenamaddy Wastewater Treatment Plant.

This significant investment will ensure that wastewater is collected and treated to the highest environmental standards. The completion of this project in Glenamaddy is vital to ensure we can provide a platform for future growth in the local community,” he said.

Jim Cullen, Chief Executive of Galway County

Council added: “I am honoured to be here today in Glenamaddy at the official opening of the new treatment plant. Irish Water is to be commended for completing this work as part of its commitment to the people of Galway.

The provision of a reliable wastewater service, in a manner that protects the natural environment, is essential to the economic and social development across the county”.

Irish Water’s Wastewater Programme Manager Paul Fallon said: “Prior to the completion of this project, the original wastewater treatment plant did not meet the required environmental standards.

This resulted in partially treated wastewater being discharged into Glenamaddy Turlough. This project has put an end to this unacceptable practice, leading to significant improvement in the natural environment, bringing benefits for everyone in the county”.

The works in Glenamaddy included the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant in Mount-

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr. Peter Keaveney was joined at the opening by his councillor colleagues Cllr.

Michael Connolly and Cllr. Declan Geraghty.

Emma Donnelly, Corporate Account Manager and Team Leader at category sponsor Softcat, presents Carmel Owens, CEO, Sidero, with the Company of the Year Award at the recent Tech Excellence Awards at the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire.

Members of Irish Water and Galway County Council who worked to bring the new plant to fruition and provide a platform for future growth in the local community.

kelly, pumping station on the Creggs Road along with the upgrade of 700m of existing sewer network and a further 1,700m of new rising main and outfall sewers was also installed.

The new wastewater treatment plant can now serve a population equivalent of 700 nearly double the capacity of the original wastewater treatment plant. The works were delivered by Ward & Burke Construction Limited on behalf of Irish Water and took approximately 14 months to complete.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr. Peter Keaveney was proud to attend the official opening of the new wastewater treatment plant in his hometown of Glenamaddy. He was joined on the steps of the plant by Irish Water’s Programme Manager Paul Fallon and Chief Executive of Galway County Council Jim Cullen.

Irish Water’s €5 million investment in Glenamaddy was celebrated by local councillors, Irish Water and Galway County Council representatives.

Athlone’s Sidero named Company of the Year at Tech Excellence Awards

Athlone-based software firm Sidero was named ‘Company of the Year’ at the 2022 Tech Excellence Awards, which took place at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire recently.

Sidero was commended for its capabilities and focus on continuous growth and development, regional jobs and investment, proven results, dedication to diversifying its organisation, client and service innovation, and key collaborations.

The company recently announced the creation of 75 jobs at its Athlone base, following an investment of €4.5 million in the business. As part of this investment, Sidero also launched a new consulting arm to reduce hiring timelines and enhance company growth and project delivery for customers.

Additionally, the company was recognised for its commitment to narrowing the technology skills gap in Ireland. With strong links to third-level institutions, Sidero has invested more than €1 million in its graduate placement and internship programme since 2018.

The company also recently led the STEAM Education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Maths) initiative in the local Ardkeenan National School to inspire children to love these subjects from a young age.

Meanwhile, Sidero was also shortlisted for the Diversity Award on the night, for its continued efforts in this crucial area.

Carmel Owens, CEO, Sidero: “This award is testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Sidero team, especially in the last couple of years during such a challenging time for businesses and wider society.

“Much of our success at Sidero is down to the incredible talent and innovation on our doorstep and the opportunities that can be grasped from investment in this region. It’s an exciting time in the growth of the company and, indeed, the technology sector in Ireland. We look forward to continued growth and success from our Athlone base”.

ATU wins at Construction Excellence Awards At a gala evening in the Convention Centre Dublin, ATU Sligo won the award in the ‘Third Level – CPD’ category for its online and flexible Master of Engineering in Road and Transport Engineering at the Irish Construction Excellence Awards.

While the university was also recognised by having their online and flexible Master of Science in Project Management also shortlisted as a finalist, there could be only one winner.

In 2021, Engineers Ireland approved this Master of Engineering in Road and Transport Engineering for full accreditation to Chartered Engineer level for graduates with an accredited Level 8 degree. This part-time online blended programme is the first online Master’s programme in Ireland to be accredited at the education standard required for the registration of Chartered Engineers and was developed in partnership with the Department of Transport and the Local Authority Services National Training Group (LASNTG), targeting civil engineers working in the road and transport engineering sector.

Course Coordinator for the winning programme Dr. Brian McCann stated: “This award provides further recognition of the academic integrity and flexibility of delivery for learners as evidenced by the degree’s full Chartered Engineer status awarded by Engineers Ireland in 2021”.

Barrie Cox, David Collery, Una Parsons, Trevor McSharry, Patrick Sweeney (Atlantic Technological University Sligo) and Deirdre O’Kane pictured at the Irish Construction Excellence Awards at the Convention Centre in Dublin recently.

35

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

PropertyPeople

PSRA Licence No. 004420

FINAL OFFERS INVITED 4 BEDROOMED SEMI DETACHED RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

Cormac 086 3519492

Cathal 086 1409158

NEW TO THE MARKET 2 BEDROOMED RESIDENCE

13 SHANNON GROVE, BALLYLEAGUE, ‘LAKE VIEW COTTAGE’ KNOCKDRUMDONNELL, BALLYMURRAY, ROSCOMMON F42 NX31 CO. ROSCOMMON N39 VF53 A four bedroomed semi detached residence of approx 1,200 sq. ft. presented for sale in pristine condition throughout with rear garden.

Accommodation on the ground floor comprises briefly of entrance hall, sitting room, kitchen dining room, utility room and guest W.C. On the first floor are four bedrooms with master bedroom en-suite, family bathroom and hot press.

Shannon Grove is an exceptionally well maintained residential development on the fringes of Ballyleague and conveniently located close to a host of amenities including schools, shops, Church, restaurants, pubs as well as a Lough Ree and the River Shannon.

The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offer to sell.

AMV: €295,000

E L A S D E E R G A

A beautiful 2 bedroomed cottage style Residence standing on a prime elevated site within walking distance to Lough Ree. This property is finished to a high standard throughout incorporating fitted kitchen and integrated appliances, along with two bedrooms, main bathroom with sauna, two large living areas along with a utility room and a large conservatory/office. The said property has been maintained to the highest standard by its present owners. It extends to an impressive approx.

1,541 sq. ft of actual floor space and is presented for sale in show house condition.

The auctioneers now invite viewings and all offers to sell.

NEW TO THE MARKET

NEW TO THE MARKET

2 BEDROOMED COTTAGE STYLE RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

5 BEDROOMED DEATCHED 2 STOREY RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

BALLINDERRY, NEW FOUR MILE HOUSE, ROSCOMMON

BARNA, GLENAMADDY, CO. GALWAY F45KT02

AMV: €70,000

This is a fantastic refurbishment opportunity set on approximately 2.81 acres. This 2 bedroom house comes complete with various stone outbuildings. Whilst in need of some repair it presents a super opportunity for the prospective purchaser to put their own stamp on it. This property is set just 9km from Roscommon town in peaceful and tranquil Ballinderry, Fourmilehouse.

The auctioneers now invite viewings and all offers to sell.

AMV:€250,000

A beautiful 5 Bedroom Detached residence standing on approx 0.7 of an acre located close to Glenamaddy town. This fine detached residence comes to the market in fine condition with 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms on over approx. 1,840 sq.ft. Comprising of Reception/Hallway, Lounge, Bedroom with ensuite and walk in wardrobe, Kitchen/Dining room, Conservatory, Utility and WC. First floor: 4 no Bedrooms in all with Master bedroom ensuite, spacious landing and family bathroom. The property is well situated between the busy towns and villages of Glenamaddy and Creggs The auctioneers now invite viewings and all offers to sell.

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

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

PropertyPeople

Two-bedroomed, semidetached for sale in Market Court, Ballygar For sale by private treaty with Moran & Co Auctioneers is a two-bedroomed, two-storey, semi-detached residence, located at 5 Market Court, Ballygar, Co. Galway.

Ground floor accommodation consists of an entrance hall, sitting room, kitchen, and toilet, while on the first floor, there are two ensuite bedrooms and a hot press.

This property benefits from being situated in a prime town centre location and would be an ideal opportunity to purchase a family home or investment property.

For further details, contact auctioneer David Moran (MSCSI MRICS) of Moran & Co Auctioneers on 090-6624531/0872786664, email info@moranandco.ie, or visit moranandco.ie.

Prime lands with bungalow and outbuilding for sale with Moran & Co For sale by private treaty with Moran & Co Auctioneers, are prime lands of approximately 8.42 hectares (20.8 acres), together with a two-bedroomed bungalow residence and outbuildings thereon, located at Killeroran and Drinaun, Ballygar, Co. Gal-

Own Centre

way. The property is being offered in one or more lots to suit purchasers.

This sale offers a great opportunity to purchase prime quality farm lands in a sought-after area. The lands have site potential subject to planning permission. The bungalow

(approximately 74 square metres) has a nice rural location, just a short distance from Ballygar. It stands on a nice elevated site and has unlimited potential for further development. With some work this can easily be transformed it to a very comfortable family home.

Inspection is highly recommended.

For further details, contact auctioneer David Moran (MSCSI MRICS) of Moran & Co Auctioneers on 090-6624531/0872786664, email info@ moranandco.ie, or visit moranandco.ie.

Auctioneers Auctioneers &Agents Estate & Estate Agents Agent Auctioneers & Estate Main Main Street, Street, Ballygar.

Ballygar.

Main Street, Ballygar.

Tel 090 6624531 087 2786664 Tel Tel 090090 6624531 6624531 087087 2786664 278666

Email info@moranandco.ie PSRA no. 001472 Email Email info@moranandco.ie info@moranandco.ie PSRAPSRA no. 00147 no. 0 Auctioneers & Estate Agents moranandco.ie Main Street, Ballygar. moranandco.ie moranandco.ie Tel 090 6624531 087 2786664 Galway 5 Market Court, Ballygar

Killeroran & Drinaun, Ballygar, Co. OwnOwn Centre Centre Email info@moranandco.ie PSRA no. 001472 Killeroran Killeroran & Drinaun, &ByDrinaun, Ballygar, Ballygar, Co. Co. Galway Galway 5 Sale Market 5 Market Court Co For Sale Private Treaty For

By Private moranandco.ie Own Centre For For Sale&Sale By (20.8 Private ByCo. Private Treaty Treaty with 5 Market Court, ForFor SaleSal B Prime Lands c. 8.42 hectares acres) together 2 Bedroom Semi-Detache Drinaun, Ballygar, Co. Galway 5 Market Court, Ballygar, Co. Galway Killeroran &Killeroran Drinaun, Ballygar, Galway Ballygar, Co. Galway For Sale By Private Treaty Sale By Private Treaty 2Prime Bed. Bungalow Residence and Outbuildings thereon.

For Sale Byhectares Private Treaty For Sale By For Private Treaty Prime Lands Lands c. 8.42 c. 8.42 hectares (20.8 (20.8 acres) acres) together together with with 2 Bedroom 2 Bedroom SemS Prime Lands c. 8.42 hectares (20.8 acres) together with 2 Bedroom Semi-Detached Residence 2 Bed. 2 Bed. Bungalow Bungalow Residence Residence and and Outbuildings Outbuildings thereon. thereon.

2 Bed.Residence Bungalow Residence and Outbuildings 2 Bed. Bungalow and Outbuildings thereon.thereon.

Prime Lands c. 8.42 hectares (20.8 acres) together with

2 Bedroom Semi-Detached Residence Accommodation; Ground Floor Entrance Hall, Sittingroom, Kitchen, Toilet, First Floor 2 Ensuite Bedrooms, Hotpress.

Acc Gro Ent Kitc Firs 2E Hot

The property isisbeing offered in or one orlots more to suit purchasers The property being offered in one more to suitlots purchasers Tow Town Centre Location This sale offers opportunity to purchase prime This sale offersaagreat great opportunity to purchase prime quality farm quality farm a soughtafter area.

TheThe landslands have site potential to landslands in a insoughtafter area. have sitesubject potential subject to Ideal opportunity to Ide planning permission.

The bungalow c.

74 sq.mts. has a nice rural The property is being offered in one or more lots to suit purchasers planning permission.

The bungalow c.in74one sq.mts. has a lots nice rural purchase a family home or TheThe property property is being is being offered offered in one or more or more lots to suit to suit purchasers purchasers Accommodation: Ground Floor location just aagreat shortopportunity distance from Ballygar. stands onlands a nice pur This sale offers to purchase primeItquality farm in a sought after area. The lands have site investment property. location just a short distance from Ballygar.

It stands on a nice Entrance Hall, Sittingroom, Kitchen, Toilet, potential subject toa planning permission.

The bungalow c. 74purchase sq.mts. has a niceprime rural location just aquality shortfarm distance elevated siteoffers and has unlimited potential for further development.

ThisThis sale sale offers great a great opportunity opportunity to to purchase prime quality farm First Floor - 2 Ensuite Bedrooms, Hotpress. inv fromsite Ballygar.

It stands a nice elevated site and has unlimited potential fordevelopment. further development. With some elevated and has unlimited potential fora very further With some work this on can easily be transformed it to comfortable Town Centre Location. Ideal opportunity to lands lands in in soughtafter a Inspection soughtafter The lands lands have site potential subject to to purchase workahome. this can easily be transformed itarea. toThe abe verytransformed comfortable familyhave home. is comfortable highly subject recommended. family is area. highly recommended.

With some work this can easily itsite toInspection apotential very a family home or investment property.

Full details from theFull auctioneer David Moran, MSCSI MRICS Full details from the auctioneer David Moran, MSCSI MRICS Full details from the auctioneer David Moran, MSCSI MRICS details from the auctioneer David Moran, MSCSI MRICS planning planning permission. permission.

The The bungalow bungalow c. 74c.sq.mts.

74 sq.mts. has has a nice a nice ruralrural family home.

Inspection is highly recommended.

Full details from the auctioneer David location just just a short a the short distance distance fromfrom Ballygar.

Ballygar.

It stands It MSCSI stands on aMRICS on nice a nice Fulllocation details from auctioneer David Moran,

elevated elevated site site and and has has unlimited unlimited potential potential for further for further development. development.

37

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

€265,000

38

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

PropertyPeople

Average house price in Roscommon now €175,526 The average price for a house in Roscommon increased to €175,526 in the first quarter of the year while rents in the county are now costing tenants €952 on average.

Meanwhile, a nationwide survey by leading protection provider, Royal London Ireland, aimed at understanding people’s long-term and ongoing expenses, found that 50 per cent of people believe the cost of housing will be their biggest ongoing expense over the course of their lifetime. Just under one third of people believe it will likely be their mortgage repayments while nearly a fifth cited rental payments.

Roscommon broker, Padraic Benson, said it’s understandable that rent and mortgage payments are to

the forefront of people’s minds.

“With rent and house prices throughout the country on the rise, it’s not surprising that half of the people we surveyed believe the cost of housing will be their biggest ongoing expense during their lifetime. The average asking price for a home in Roscommon is now €175,526, up 17 per cent from last year. So, it’s understandable that the ongoing and increasing cost of housing, as well as the initial affordability of purchasing a property, are key issues for the Irish public,” he said.

Outside of the cost of housing, survey respondents said raising children was the next highest ongoing expense (15 per cent), particularly among 35 to 44-year-olds (20 per cent). This was followed

by the ongoing costs of paying utility bills like gas, electricity and broadband (12 per cent). 9 per cent of respondents said that financial products, including saving for their pension and paying for protection products like life, car and home insurance would be their biggest ongoing expenditure over the course of their life.

The Royal London Ireland survey found women (20 per cent) were almost twice as likely as men (11 per cent) to cite the cost of raising children as the biggest ongoing expenditure in their lifetime.

People in the 35 to 44-year age bracket, meanwhile, were more likely than any other age group to select the cost of having a family – 20 per cent versus the national average of 15 per cent.

Commencement Notices received for 44 Roscommon homes in April < DAN DOONER

Gills Bar sold this week at RE/MAX Team Earley This week, Remax Team Earley are pleased to advise that they have closed the sale of a residential licensed premises known as Gills Bar and residence, at Ballyaunis, Co. Mayo.

Situated in a magnificent town centre, this bar is beautifully furnished to a superb standard, and has a large five-bedroomed family home attached. The premises enjoys enormous character with a front bar and back lounge, which offers an ideal opportunity for a quality “hands on” operator to acquire a ready to go business with growth

potential. Fully fitted out with quality furnishings and equipment, this prime trading house is located at Clare Street, Ballyhaunis, and benefits from a high volume of passing traffic.

The premises occupies a front bar and lounge trading area on the ground floor, along with restrooms and convenient, easily-accessible storage facilities.

There are ample amount of patron seating areas in warm and inviting surrounds. The front bar offers a comfortable pub atmosphere with a warm traditional interior and an

open fire, while the back lounge offers more privacy for parties or meetings.

The living accommodation is modern and beautifully maintained, including a fully-fitted kitchen, utility and living/dining room on the ground floor.

Overhead on the first floor, and maintained to exacting standards, there is a large sitting room, five bedrooms (two of which have en-suite bathrooms), a family bathroom, office and a storage room. The living accommodation also benefits from having PVC double-glazed win-

dows throughout and an oil central heating system for the supply of heat and hot water to both the bar and residence.

RE/MAX Team Earley are currently looking for similar properties in all areas for cash buyers.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090-66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, log onto teamearley.ie, or contact auctioneers Cormac (0863519492) or Cathal (0861409158).

According to figures released this week, Commencement Notices were received for 44 homes in total in Roscommon last month with a total of 2,346 notices received for new residential homes nationally.

The Commencement Notices data indicates the number of homes on which construction commenced in any given month.

A total of 15 one-off homes commenced construction in Roscommon last month, more than double the number of the previous three months of the year combined. There were 107 such notices in the whole of last year, bringing Roscommon’s

total for Commencement Notices to 145 for 2021.

In the past 12 months (May 2021 to April 2022), Commencement Notices for 32,456 new homes were received. On a rolling 12-month basis, the total number of homes for which Commencement Notices were received is 51.6 per cent higher than the previous 12-month period of May 2020 to April 2021 (Commencement Notices received for 21,405 new homes).

However, the figures are not comparable due to the pandemic-related restrictions on construction during the May 2020 the April 2021 period.

With the exception of 2020, when significant restrictions on homebuilding existed due to

the pandemic, the number of residential homes for which Commencement Notices were received has increased every year since 2015 (the earliest year for which comparable data is available).

The total number of homes for which notices were received in April 2022 (2,346 units) is lower than March 2022 (2,809 units). The figure is lower than April 2021 (4,736 units).

This could be attributed to the high number of Commencement Notices received in April 2021 following the ending of pandemic-related restrictions on residential construction from January to April 2021, when there was reduced activity in the first quarter of that year.

Your Health & Wellbeing

39

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

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

Irish rugby star lines out with Family Carers Ireland Roscommon welcome for Ambassador Ryan!

Leinster and Irish rugby star, Ryan Baird, has been announced as a new Ambassador for Family Carers Ireland and he is urging people all over Ireland to get active and challenge themselves to walk, jog or run a distance of 24kms in seven days – all while raising vital funds for the charity.

‘Paws for a Cause’ is a national fundraising drive that is taking place during National Carers Week (June 13th-19th). Ryan and Family Carers Ireland are asking people all over Ireland to walk or run, with or without their furry friend, in solidarity with

Ireland’s 500,000 family carers and in recognition of the 24/7 nature of many caring roles.

All monies raised by ‘Paws for a Cause’ will go directly to help family carers in crisis, providing essential supports such as counselling, respite and emotional support as well as the purchase of practical support items including hoists, wheelchairs and in some particularly difficult cases, putting food on tables and oil in heating tanks.

Ryan Baird said: “I’m delighted to support Family Carers Ireland – I have a great admiration for the work they do across the country. I have seen first-hand from my aunt and her family the dedication, commitment and sacrifice they make to take care of my cousin on a daily basis.

“This, for me, is a simple and fun challenge to show how easy it can be to raise vital funds for a great charity

that does incredible work. I am appealing to everyone to get behind this great cause. Whether you have a dog or not, sign up and participate, and support this amazing charity”.

Bernie Dowling (Roscommon Carer Support Manager with Family Carers Ireland) welcomed Ryan’s support, saying: “With more families than ever relying on Family Carers Ireland for support, this fundraiser couldn’t come at a better time. We are seeing unprecedented levels of stress and financial worries piled on family carers.

“All of us at Family Carers Ireland are delighted to have an ambassador like Ryan, who is willing to literally go the extra mile and help us raise much needed funds and awareness.

We want to encourage everyone across Ireland to enjoy the benefits of exercise, while raising money and ultimately having a bit of fun!”

Pictured is Leinster and Irish rugby star, and new Ambassador for Family Carers Ireland, Ryan Baird with his dog Mackenzie at the launch of the ‘Paws for a Cause’ Fundraising Challenge.

Dementia Café launches new website

Teresa Keegan, Julie Docker, Martin Grennan, Phil Bye, Patricia McLoughlin and Phil Cooney pictured at the launch of the new Roscommon Dementia website at Lough Key Forest Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Pauline Smyth, John Kennedy, Mary Reynolds, Dermot Jordan, Martin Quinn and Cathy Beirne (Castlerea) pictured at the launch of the new Roscommon Dementia website at Lough Key Forest Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Sabrina Kiernan, Christy Beirne and Tom Garvin (Plunkett Home, Boyle) pictured at the launch of the new Roscommon Dementia website at Lough Key Forest Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Cllr. Joe Murphy (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council), Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, Brian Nerney, Margaret Mulligan and Linda Sice pictured at the launch of the new Roscommon Dementia website at Lough Key Forest Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Majella Dodd, Bernie Dowling, Margaret Mulligan, Frances Maloney and Richard Regan pictured at the launch of the new Roscommon Dementia website at Lough Key Forest Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

On Wednesday, the 11th of May, the Roscommon Dementia Café celebrated the launch of their new website. Members from across the county who use the service gathered together in Lough Key Forest Park to celebrate this momentous occasion. Guest speakers highlighted the importance of the service, and the site was officially launched by Cllr. Joe Murphy (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council).

Roscommon Dementia Alliance was established in May 2017, when a group of community and voluntary organisations and community activists came together to address a growing need within the county. The group initially began with information sessions, presentations, training, and seminars, and has since progressed to hosting national conferences and monthly dementia cafés.

Roscommon Dementia Alliance operates from the core community development principles of participation, social inclusion, social justice, empowerment and collective action. The new website project is supported by the Roscommon LEADER Partnership through its SICAP team.

There is significant evidence of the prevalence of dementia in our society; a report from Alzheimer Europe has stated that the overall numbers of people with dementia in Ireland will more than double, from an estimated 55,000 in 2018 to 141,200 in 2050, due to a predicted increase in Ireland’s population over the coming thirty years.

Speaking at the launch, Cllr. Murphy complimented the main groups and organisations involved in the County Roscommon Dementia Alliance committee and everyone who assisted in any way on this project.

To learn more about the Roscommon Dementia Café, or to access the wide range of information and services available, visit the new website at roscommondementia.ie.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

Roscommon Darkness into Light a success The Roscommon Town Darkness into Light committee wish to express their deepest gratitude to everyone who registered, donated, participated (by walking, talking, and running), and volunteered in their annual Darkness into Light event, held on Saturday, May 7th.

People came out in their hundreds to support this worthy cause, and it was a joy to see the crowds back again.

The committee said: “Everyone’s participation in the early hours of a dry, fresh, crisp morning, and over the course of the weekend to support this worthy cause, clearly demonstrates your enthu-

siasm for spreading the message of hope.

“Special thanks to the Roscommon Garda Síochána, Roscommon Fire Service, and the Civil Defence for their services in supporting the event.

Thanks to all the local Roscommon town businesses and offices who supported by supplying various items such as refreshments, confectionery, space for community registration days, transport, furniture, media, music, sound and lighting, readers, utility support, waste disposal units, drone footage, and car parking facilities. Special thanks to the Convent of Mercy Secondary School

Volunteers pictured at the Roscommon Darkness Into Light event, held on Saturday, May 7th.

(Above and below) Committee members pictured at the Roscommon Darkness Into Light event, held on Saturday, May 7th.

Kelly family members pictured at the Roscommon Darkness Into Light event, held on Saturday, May 7th.

for the use of ‘The Gym’ as our Darkness into Light venue; we were very grateful to have such a great space to host our participants.

“Thanks to everyone who helped organise successful fundraising events preceding and over the weekend. The proceeds will go directly to Pieta House to provide 24/7 free counselling and support to those who need it.

“Special recognition goes out to the hardworking committee for their contributions and dedication in organising this successful event, and in raising much-needed funds for Pieta House.

Thank you to all the volunteers who turned up to assist with stewarding, to the busy team inside who assisted with serving beverages and snacks to the public, and to everyone who supported the 2022 DIL event”.

The Darkness Into Light event seeks to raise awareness about mental health, and provides an opportunity for people to connect and show their support for those who have been bereaved by suicide. If you are in crisis, you can speak to a therapist by freephoning 1800247247, or texting HELP to 51444. If you wish to make an appointment with a therapist, you can call 0818 111 126.

Looking forward to seeing you all again on Saturday, May 6th, 2023!

Alan Somers and Gary Smyth pictured at the Roscommon Darkness Into Light event, held on Saturday, May 7th.

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

NewsPeople

41

Gerry Clarke, Pat McDonagh and Tom Cunningham pictured in Ballaghaderreen for Pieta’s Darkness Into Light Walk on Saturday, May 7th. Pic: Mick McCormack

Rebecca Hayes, Holly Murray and Aoibheann Maloney pictured in Ballaghaderreen for Pieta’s Darkness Into Light Walk on Saturday, May 7th. Pic: Mick McCormack

Ballaghaderreen Darkness Into Light Walk

(Above) Minika, Karolina and Michal Goluch pictured in Ballaghaderreen for Pieta’s Darkness Into Light Walk on Saturday, May 7th.

Pic: Mick McCormack

Elizabeth Foley, Mary Roddy and Denise Deery pictured in Ballaghaderreen for Pieta’s Darkness Into Light Walk on Saturday, May 7th. Pic: Mick McCormack

Barbara and Caoimhe Taylor pictured in Ballaghaderreen for Pieta’s Darkness Into Light Walk on Saturday, May 7th. Pic: Mick McCormack

(Right) Michael O’Brien and Tony Gilligan pictured in Ballaghaderreen for Pieta’s Darkness Into Light Walk on Saturday, May 7th. Pic: Mick McCormack

Claire McCann, Paul Griffin and Brid Duffy pictured in Ballaghaderreen for Pieta’s Darkness Into Light Walk on Saturday, May 7th. Pic: Mick McCormack

Gerry Doherty and Pat Mitchell pictured in Ballaghaderreen for Pieta’s Darkness Into Light Walk on Saturday, May 7th. Pic: Mick McCormack

42

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

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43

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Tom Lennon intend to apply for planning permission to construct a new residential dwelling and Garage at, Carrickbeg, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of a new single storey house to include new waste water treatment system and ancillary works all on site at, Carrickbeg, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon .

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, (20e) 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: Franco Magliocco Ba (Hons) Arch. Dip.Arch.

MRIAI. RIBA

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Laura Mullooly, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct a dwelling house and garage with wastewater treatment system and raised mound percolation area and all associated site development works at Mote Demesne Td, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon.

Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

Tel: 086 8212732

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

HOLIDAY ACCOMMADATION <ALGARVE: The Algarve, Albuferia, Portugal. Luxury one or two bed apartments for rent. Shared pool, long or short stays. Summer season available. Ring Sean on 087 2371716

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

ROOFING

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

Phone: 091 416029 Liam or Mick 085 7619827

Affordable Roofing and Gutter Repairs, we replace and install in Roscommon area.

Our Services: • Roof Repairs • Gutter Repairs • New Roofs • Flat Roofs • Gutter Exchange • Lead Valley Roof • Cleaning Gutter • Cleaning

email: roofingcontractors27@gmail.com

Phone: 091 416029

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas) < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Net bags of seasoned firewood only €3 per bag, buy 20 bags get 1 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf only €35 per bag. Half tonne bags of Ash/Beech only €35 per bag. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 or Tony 087 7055800

TOP QUALITY TURF

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available

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

Phone:

For any of your foot issues call:

083 0684011

094 9620009 FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

PODIATRIST

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 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience

Call Mike

087 2478609

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn.

We are safety certified and insured.

Phone:

086 2437376 < SMITH FUELS: Turf/ Timber kindling, coal pellets, firelog delivered/pick-up available.

Contact Fergal 087 9334210

USEFUL SERVICES

Carpenter Available

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

If so ring:

Doors Floors l Stairs l Wall Panelling Over 30 years experience

Phone Tommy

086 8934576

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

< PLOTS OF TURF TO LET: Easy Access. Ballinagare/ Frenchpark / Castlerea Area. Call Owen 086 8953884

< PAINTER & DECORATOR AVAILABLE: For all your painting needs, keen and competive prices. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802

l

l

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p086255315@gmail. com

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS:

HOME MAINTENANCE < TURF PLOTS: Plots of turf to let, Tulsk, Castlerea area. Now taking orders. Contact Chris 086 4100508

FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

NO JOB TOO SMALL

087 9657933 or 090 66 33084

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Power Washing Gutters Cleaned l Fitting Shower Doors l Bathroom Accessories l Tiling and Timber Flooring l General Gardening Maintenance and Clean-up etc. l

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ...

WE DO ANYTHING From fitting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL !

094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

USEFUL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL KITCHEN CABINET PAINTER AVAILABLE

l

l

Tel:

USEFUL SERVICES

HANDY MAN AVAILABLE

TARMACADAM

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

USEFUL SERVICES

083 8838022 C&G Quarries Williamstown, Co. Galway

Tel: 087 2601639

READYMIX CONCRETE

Suppliers of Maintenance - Pea Gravel - 804 l Broken and Round Stone l Drainage Chip l Washed Sand

l

Midwest Painters l ROOFS washed and painted l DRIVEWAYS washed and sealeed l AGRI/FARM SHEDS washed and painted

All work guaranteed Fully insured

Telephone 083 2070158 <SOCIAL DANCING: Every Friday night in An Bothar Rua, Elphin with live music from 9.30pm til late. Dance class with Frank from 8.30pm.

Tel. 087 9809432

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

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

086 4679798 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

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

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

44

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

AtYourService BLINDS

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

CARS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE BRENDAN DOOLIN

TEL: (090) 96 88606

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

Chimney Problems

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

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

INSULATION

Daily collection

INSURANCE CLAIMS

Mountbellew, Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway

info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 0879818153 9818153Co. Galway info@mhla.ie Mountbellew, 091 380900 380900 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 || 087 www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 Dip in Loss Certified Dip DipCertified in Loss Loss Certified in Adjusting Adjusting Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Loss Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services

Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting

Approved Product Advisor

POWER BRUSH

Loss Assessor Services

Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

Member of the PSAB-GI

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

Chris’s Window Service

You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions Power Washing

Contact Dave:

087 751 3774

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon We SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness Bonded Bead Cavity &Wall Insulation New Buildings Retrofit

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

€3,500

091 768 768

Supply and fit uPVC Doors and Windows ONLY TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED Composite Doors, French Doors, Patio Doors in a wide range of styles and colours Also various styles and colours of uPVC Windows

Full replacement service provided and all work carried out to a high quality finish

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

091 768 768

Contact Pat Hanley on

www.ecowise.ie

to discuss your requirements

info@ecowise.ie

Please ring to make an appointment for the small animal clinic.

PLUMBING

www.roscommonwindows.ie

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2,info@ecowise.ie Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway H91 P5k5 Block 12, Galway www.ecowise.ie

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway l Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder and lock supplied l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.

VETERINARY

info@mhla.ie

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

Telephone: 090 66 33026

€1,214 to Estate, Galway

085 2113317

ApprovedProduct Product Member of the PSAB-GI Approved Member of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Approved Member of Advisor Product Advisor by the Central Advisorwww.mhla.ie Regulated Regulated by Regulated by the the Central Central Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Member of Insurance Bank Member ofofthe the Insurance Bank of of Ireland Ireland Institute Ireland Institute of of Ireland Ireland Institute

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4

Full & Mini Car Valeting (we come to you)

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA

Cleaning Services • Roscommon

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

Patios l Decking Houses l Vehicles l Driveways l Caravans l Walls l Gutters l Domestic Cleaning l Roof Cleaning l All Types of Algae Treated l

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Furniture Removal & Collection l Garden Maintenance l Painting Service Fully Registered & Insured Phone John:

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Martin HibbittAPA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt CIP, CDIP

S tephen H oare

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

GENERAL SERVICES

l

CLEANING

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

Call in or contact us for free andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial

Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Power Flush System • Chemical Flush out of Radiators + Boiler & Pipe work.

• Reduces build up of sludge and debris in circulation pumps etc.

• Increase of Heat Time • Reduces Fuel Costs (Eco)

Call LMC Plumbing on 089 948 6480

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

ROSCOMMON Driving School

Tel: 087 0944027

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

Lowest price guaranteed

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted.

End of life certs can be provided.

Also scrap metal

DRIVING LESSONS

086 6002721

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

RECYCLING

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

45

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Classifieds

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

Appointments

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

Klassic Cleaners

ELPHIN COMMUNITY CENTRE CLG Invites applications for the position of

CARETAKER for Elphin Community Centre

ARE HIRING

Fixed Term Contract to December 31st, 2022 with possible extension subject to funding.

39 hours weekly which involves some evening, week end and bank holiday work.

Applicants must be in receipt of Social Welfare Payments (e.g.

Job seekers benefit/assistance/ transitional payment, one parent family payment and disability allowance/benefit).

A panel may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.

Candidates may be shortlisted.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00 p.m. on 10th June, 2022.

This post is funded by Pobal and the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Elphin Community Centre CLG is an equal opportunities employer.

Canvassing will disqualify.

Please forward CV detailing any previous relevant experience to: Elphin Community Centre, New Line Road, Elphin, Co. Roscommon by 5.00 p.m. on Friday, 10th June, 2022.

We are looking to hire a new part time flexible staff member to add to our team!

• Main duties will include Ironing and working on our roller iron.

• Good english preferable.

• We are a busy launderette/dry cleaners and are looking for a confident, motivated person!!

• Attention to detail is a must…….

• Experience is not essential as training will be provided.

• You will also need to be available to cover holidays.

CV’s to be emailed to: klasscleans@gmail.com Or Call to 090 6625995 and we’ll call you back.

SITUATIONS VACANT

Late applications will not be accepted.

SITUATIONS VACANT

< PART TIME CARER: Kind person required to care for a pleasant 12 year old boy with autism. Experience of working with additional needs essential. Approximately 5 hours per week, after school and holiday time. Full driving licence and own car required. Please send applications to PO Box 3022, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town, Roscommon.

< HGV DRIVER WANTED: Evergreen Fields, Dunmore are looking for HGV Driver. Must have CE license and CPC up to date. Keen rates 35K-55K. Call 087 7206947

< BAR STAFF REQUIRED: Doorlys Corner House are looking for bar staff for weekend work, experience desireable.

Apply with CV to: doorlys196@gmail.com

ATHLEAGUE ARE HIRING Kepak are an Irish family owned food company, with 4,500 employees across 12 sites in Ireland and UK. At Kepak, we offer more than a job, we offer an opportunity to progress in your career with our Keep Learning training programme.

HEAD CANTEEN CHEF Hours: Mon to Fri (6am – 2pm) Qualification: HACCP Level 1. Desirable Experience: Workplace catering (approx. 300 staff).

WHAT WE OFFER... € LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT

BENEFITS PACKAGE

COMPETITIVE RATES OF PAY

CAREER PROGRESSION

PERFORMANCE BONUS

IMMEDIATE START!

INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE

AND BE PART OF OURS LEARN MORE

More information at www.kepak.com/careers

OWENS Michael St. Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary) Who passed away on 5th June 2021.

(Aged 90 years)

Remember me with smiles not tears, for all the joy through all the years.

Recall the closeness that was ours, a love as “sweet” as fragrant flowers.

Don’t dwell on thoughts that cause you pain, we’ll see each other once again.

I am at peace... try to believe, it was my time...

I had to leave.

But “what a view”, I have from here, I see your face, I feel you near, I follow you throughout the day, you’re not alone along the way.

And when god calls you ... you will be, right by my side... right here with me.

Till then, I’ll wait by heaven’s door, we’ll be united ... evermore!

FALLON Laurence (Larry) Dysart, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) Who passed away on 7th June 2020.

May the sod rest light on where you lie, may you rest in peace with God on high.

Always fondly remembered by his wife Anne, sons, daughter, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and all his extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will take place on Saturday, 11th June at 7.30pm in Dysart Church.

PIPE Frederick Hawthorn Drive In loving memory of Fred who passed away on 8th June 2021 (1st Anniversary)

You always had a smile to share, a laugh, a joke and time to care.

A wonderful nature, warm and true, those are the memories we have of you.

Forever loved and greatly missed by his wife Joyce, children Martyn, Mandy, Alison and Stephen, grandchildren, family and friends.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

Fondly remembered by his extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 5th June at 9am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

THANKSGIVINGS UNFAILING NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and showed me the way to reach my ideals. You who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. I want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your Perpetual Glory. Amen. Mention your request. While making the request, promise to either publish this prayer to circulate the favour. Say prayer for three days. After the third day, the request will be granted. S.B.

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

46

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES DOWD Tommie Ballybane, Galway formerly Aughagad, Castlecoote, County Roscommon (5th Anniversary) In loving memory of Tommie who died on the 8th June 2017

CRUISE David

Knock, Taughmaconnell, Co. Roscommon and Ballinasloe, Co. Galway (1st Anniversary)

McCORMACK J.J. Cartron, Four Mile House, Roscommon Who passed away on 3rd June 2020 (2nd 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

We think about you always and talk about you too.

We have such precious memories but we wish we still had you.

Those special years will not return, when we were all together.

But the memories that are in our hearts will stay with us forever.

Forever loved and deeply missed by your sisters Mary and Margaret, brother Michael, brothers-in-law, sister in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnephews and grandniece.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Thursday, 9th June at 7pm.

DONNELLY Gerry Rahara, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (18th Anniversary)

If we could visit Heaven, even for a day, maybe for a moment the pain would go away.

We’d put our arms around you and whisper “We love you”.

Living life without you is the hardest thing we do.

No matter how we spend our day, no matter what we do, your memory is our keepsake, of which we’ll never part.

God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts.

“No longer by our side, forever in our hearts”.

Fondly remembered by your heartbroken mother Pauline and sister Evelyn. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ On David’s 1st Anniversary Pauline and Evelyn would sincerely like to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us at the time of David’s sad passing.

We were very touched by all those who consoled and supported us on our very sad loss. Thank you so much to all who left beautiful messages on RIP.ie and to all who gave us Mass Cards, enrolments, sympathy cards, texts and visits to our home, the outpouring of support that we received was truly overwhelming.

We would also like to thank our kind friends and neighbours, An Garda Siochana, David’s work colleagues and friends, Fr. Neylon P.P., Valerie Seale, Rothwells Funeral Directors and the gravediggers.

It is impossible to thank everyone individually, so please as a token of our deepest and most sincere appreciation to everyone. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

David’s 1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell on Sunday, 5th of June at 11am.

THANKSGIVINGS

In loving memory of Gerry who passed away on 5th June, 2004.

Rest In Peace Sadly missed by his wife Teresa, daughter Orla, sons Luke, Anthony and Damien, daughters-in-law Ann, Siobhán, Helena and grandchildren Dylan, Evan, Keeva, Muireann, Róisín, Carly and Conor.

Anniversary Mass in Rahara Church on Sunday, 5th June at 10am.

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

Alone, but never quite alone, I face an empty chair; but sometimes in the silence, I imagine you are there, my companion for so many years, no longer here with me, and yet in some mysterious way, you keep me company.

When your beautiful heart stopped beating, my heart just broke in two, knowing that here on earth there will never be another like you.

Forever loved and deeply missed by your heartbroken wife, Chris. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ We do not need a special day to bring you to our minds.

The days we do not think of you are very hard to find.

Our thoughts are always with you, your place no-one can fill.

In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still.

Always loved and sadly missed by Anne-Marie, Geraldine, Padraic, Michelle and Joe, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and cherished grandchildren.

J.J.’s Second Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday, 5th June in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House at 11 a.m.

MURPHY Tom

FINNERAN Joe

Sheehaun, Curraghroe, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

Lisgobbin, Roscommon Who passed away on 15th June 2021 (1st Anniversary)

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

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

In loving memory of Tom who passed away on 28th May 2020 Softly in the morning Your heard a gentle call You took the hand God offered you And quietly left us all

Sadly missed by Marian, Stephen, Tanya & Abbey ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ From, sincere hearts and minds, Wonderful memories you left behind

Sadly missed by his brother, sister and families.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh, Co. Roscommon on Saturday, 4th June 2022 at 8pm.

Joe remembering you is easy, we do it every day.

Missing you is heartbreak that never goes away, you are missed and will never be forgotten.

Sadly missed by Maureen, Olivia, Trevor, Shauna and Niall and your beloved grandchildren Niall, Emma, Abbie and Danny.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, 4th June at 7pm.

COLLINS John and Mary Thornfield, Ballygar, Co. Galway (22nd and 8th Anniversaries)

Cherished memories of our loving parents, John and Mary Collins, who passed away on 10th January, 2000 and 7th June, 2014 respectively Our thoughts are ever with you though you have passed away and those who loved you dearly are thinking of you today.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all the family.

Anniversary Mass will be held in private.

WARD (nee Donnelly) Mary

Goff St., Roscommon Who passed away on the 7th June 2021 (1st Anniversary)

On the first anniversary of Mary’s death we, her family would like to thank everyone who supported us during this sad and difficult time.

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all those who sympathised with us in person or via phone, text, letter, card or online posting on RIP.ie.

Thank you to all those who sent Mass cards, sympathy cards, enrolments and flowers.

Sincere thanks to Fr. Michael Donnelly, her cousin, for celebrating the lovely mass and to Fr. Kevin Fallon for concelebrating. Thanks to Hazel Murray for the beautiful music and signing and also to Zena Donnelly, her grandniece for her beautiful rendition of ‘Be Not Afraid’.

Thanks to all those who stood in respect along the funeral route and to the staff and others who formed Guards of Honour and to the Garda Síochána for directing the traffic.

Thanks to the ambulance staff who took Mary to hospital and to the Doctors, Nurses and staff at Portiuncula University Hospital who looked after Mary during her short time there.

Sincere thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism, guidance, support and recordings throughout.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Mary’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, 12th June at 11.30 am.

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Sports PEOPLE

47

Camogie

Camógs back on track!

Roscommon are back in with a chance of progressing in the AllIreland Camogie Premier Junior Championship following their 0-15 to 0-8 win against Limerick in Ballyforan last Saturday.

Having lost to Antrim in their first game, Liam Gordon’s side had to win to keep their interest in the competition and they duly obliged with a convincing display. Catriona Regan led the way, scoring four points from play.

Roscommon now face two tough away games against Armagh and Down over the next month.

GAA Results GE Warehousing New York O’Rourke Cup Division One (Section B) Clann na nGael 1-15 Roscommon Gaels 1-8 Leydon Bros London O’Gara Cup Division Two St. Croan’s 2-15 Kilmore 2-9 Sidero Division Four Quarter-Finals Oran 2-13 St. Faithleach’s 1-11 Elphin W/O Kilmore Fuerty 6-9 St. Ronan’s 2-14 Cora Systems Division Five QuarterFinals Michael Glavey’s 3-14 St. Dominic’s 1-Roscommon Gaels 2-8 St. Aidan’s 0-11

GAA Fixtures

Roscommon’s Niamh Feeney is pictured with Croke Park/LGFA Player of the Month award for April, at The Croke Park Hotel, Jones’ Road, Dublin. Niamh was Player of the Match as Roscommon defeated Wexford in April to capture the Lidl Ladies National Football League Division Three title. Pic: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Ladies set for high stakes showdown

TG4 Ladies Football All-Ireland Intermediate Championship: Roscommon v Kildare on Sunday at 2 pm in Kiltoom < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon Ladies footballers face a tough opening to their championship on Sunday when they face Kildare at Kiltoom. The sides met in Division Three semi-final a couple of months ago and on that occasion Roscommon prevailed by two points after a high-scoring game (4-9 to 1-16).

This Sunday’s showdown is difficult to predict as the form of both teams has been very mixed. Kildare went on to win the Leinster Intermediate Championship but last Sunday they were shocked by Longford in the first round of the All-Ireland championship, losing by 3-9 to 1-9 and

that means that they have to beat Roscommon on Sunday or they will be out of contention for this year.

Roscommon’s form since the league has not been great either. In the Connacht championship they lost three of the four games they played and were beaten by Leitrim in the recent final.

Manager Ollie Lennon says that it is vitally important that Roscommon open their campaign with a win but that it will be extremely difficult.

“We are looking forward to getting our championship underway but it will not be easy against Kildare. They were surprisingly beaten by Longford last Sunday so they are in the last chance saloon so they will be very dangerous opponents. Remember that they won the Leinster Intermediate championship recently too,” he said.

Lennon says Roscommon have prepared well since losing to Leitrim in the Connacht final two weeks ago: “This is a new competition and a new start for the panel. We

have been lucky with injuries and Kate Nolan is our only long-term absentee which is very positive”.

Another boost for the panel is the return of world champion boxer Lisa O’Rourke to the panel.

“Lisa has been back training and it is great to have her.

The girls on the panel are very proud of her achievements,” Lennon added.

“We want to get to a quarter-final and we can do that if we win this match on Sunday. It’s good to be playing at home and hopefully we will have a good crowd there to cheer us on,” he concluded.

Ollie’s charges, who have been boosted by the news that Niamh Feeney (pictured) was chosen as the LGFA Player of the Month for April, know that a win will put them through to the quarter-finals regardless of what happens against Longford the following weekend. The stakes are high but Roscommon should be good enough to deliver.

Prediction: Roscommon.

Friday, June 3rd GE Warehousing New York O’Rourke Cup Division One (Section A) (8.15 pm) At Woodmount: Pádraig Pearses v St. Faithleach’s At Western Gaels: Western Gaels v St. Dominic’s At Abbey Park: Boyle v St. Brigid’s GE Warehousing New York O’Rourke Cup Division One (Section B) (8 pm) At Tulsk: Tulsk Lord Edwards v Clann na nGael At Orchard Park: Elphin v Michael Glavey’s At Dr. Hyde Park: Roscommon Gaels v Strokestown Leydon Bros London O’Gara Cup Division Two (8.15 pm) At Rockfield: Oran v Fuerty At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v Shannon Gaels At James Timothy Park: Éire Óg v Clann na nGael Saturday, June 4th Leydon Bros London O’Gara Cup Division Two (7 pm) At Kilbride: Kilbride v St. Brigid’s AFL Tansey Cup Division Three (7 pm) At Creggs: Creggs v St. Barry’s At Strokestown: Strokestown v Pádraig Pearses At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v St. Dominic’s At Kilglass: Kilglass Gaels v St. Aidan’s Sunday, June 5th Senior Hurling League (Group A) (12 pm) At Woodmount: Pádraig Pearses v Four Roads At Rockfield: Oran v Roscommon Gaels Monday, June 6th AFL Division Four Quarter-Finals At Western Gaels: Western Gaels v Roscommon Gaels. 3 pm

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses This weekend’s action Racing this weekend starts this evening on the flat at Leopardstown, off at 5.05 pm featuring the Group 3 Ballycorus Stakes.

There are two meetings tomorrow, both over the jumps at Tramore at 5 pm and at Down Royal off at 4.50 pm. Two more meetings on Saturday, racing starts in Listowel, the first of a three-day meeting, on the flat at 1.40 pm, and over the sticks at Tramore, first race at 12.45 pm.

On Sunday, Listowel race again on the flat at 1.55 pm with a NH card at Kilbeggan away at 2.10 pm. Racing on Bank Holiday Monday is on the flat at Gowran Park at 1.45 pm and the final day of Listowel over the sticks at 2.35 pm.

ITV covers five races from Epsom tomorrow including the Oaks and Coronation Cup, both Group 1 races. Again, on Saturday they cover another five races including the Group 1 Derby and two Group 3 races, The Princess Elizabeth Stakes, and the Diomed Stakes.

Joseph O’Brien’s Above The Curve travelled to France on Sunday to win the Group 1 Prix SaintAlary at Longchamp for Joseph O’Brien and Ryan Moore. The filly beat Place Du Carrousel by 1l, and now may go for The Pretty

Polly on the Curragh. The Prix Du Jockey Club, the French Derby, takes place in Chantilly on Sunday.

Epsom Preview There are 11 in the Epsom Oaks tomorrow, headed by the favourite Emily Upjohn, trained by the Gosden father and son team, and will be ridden by Frankie Dettori. The daughter of Sea The Stars is unbeaten in three runs and has been given a good draw in stall five. Gosden’s also have a second string to their bow in the dual winner Nashwa with Hollie Doyle booked to ride.

Aidan O’Brien has four runners entered, headed

by Tuesday, placed in the English and Irish 1,000 Guineas, Concert Hall, third in the Curragh, with Thoughts Of June and The Algarve completing the quartet. Son Joseph has Tranquil Lady with the home trained Rogue Millennium, Kawida, and Moon De Vega completing the field.

On Saturday, there are 18 horses left in the Derby, with five of them trained in Ireland. Aidan O’Brien has three including second favourite Stone Age backed up with Changingoftheguard and Star Of India. His son Donnacha trains Piz Badile for whom Frankie Dettori is booked and Tyrone based Andy Oliver’s Glory Daze at

100/1, who finished second to Stone Age beaten 5½l.

The home team is led

by Dante winner Michael Stoute’s Desert Crown who is unbeaten in two runs and is ante post favourite.

Nation’s Pride has been supplemented at a cost of £75k by Charlie Appleby and Godolphin and having won four out of five races must be considered. Fourth in the 2000 Guineas Roger Varian’s Eydon, also in the French Derby on Sunday, could be e/w value at 20/1 here. The favourite Desert Crown should retain his unbeaten status, but Nation’s Pride must finish in the first three to recoup the outlay and whatever Ryan Moore rides for Aidan O’Brien, who has a great record in the race, should finish in the first three home. In an unprecedented move in 242 runnings of the race, the sponsors have agreed to the race being called The Cazoo Derby in memory of Lester Piggott.

Kilbeggan Preview Racing on Sunday opens with the Adare Manor Opportunity Hurdle, sponsored by JP McManus over 2m 2f, followed by a 3m Novice Hurdle. Next up is a handicap hurdle again over 3m with a 2m handicap hurdle to follow. There is The New Midlands Hospice Beginners Chase over 2m 3f and the penultimate is the Entegro Handicap

Chase over a similar distance. Racing ends with a Pro/Am bumper over 2m.

Racing News Sean Flanagan and Noel Meade have parted company after seven years. Flanagan took over as number one jockey at Tu Va Stables when Paul Carberry retired after breaking his leg. Flanagan will no longer be first choice for Meade, for whom he has ridden five Grade 1 winners.

Three meetings were abandoned in England last week because of ground conditions. Firstly, on Wednesday Beverley after four races, Haydock after two races on Friday and Chester after four races on Saturday. All three meetings were abandoned after horses slipped on bends and the decision was made to abandon due to safety concerns.

Old Stoneface is gone.

Lester Piggott one of, if not, the greatest jockey of all time has died at the age of 86 in Switzerland.

The Long Fellow, as he was known because of his height, rode 4,493 winners in Britain, the first, at 12 years of age, was The Chase, in 1948, and the last Palacegate Jack, in 1994, both at Haydock. He rode over 5,300 worldwide. He rode 30 British Classic winners including a record nine Epsom Derby winners, five Newmarket 2000 Guineas

and 2, 1000 Guineas winners, six Epsom Oaks winners and eight Doncaster St. Leger winners. He won the Curragh Derby five times, and one French Derby.

He won the British Triple Crown on the Canadianbred Nijinsky, trained by Vincent O’Brien, in 1970 and won 20 races over hurdles including Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. He is survived by daughters Maureen, who is married to trainer William Haggas, Tracy, who worked in Irish Television for RTÉ, and son Jamie. RIP.

Point-to-Point News The season ended last Sunday at Tralee and the stats for the season are Barry O’Neill is leading rider on 61 winners, 24 ahead of Rob James on 37.

Susie Doyle beat defending champion Liz Lalor by two wins for the Ladies title with nine winners. Colin Bowe was the leading handler with 46 winners. Roll on September and the new season.

David Christie from Derrylin brought over two horses to the end of season big hunter chase meeting at Stratford and won the Champion Novice Hunter Chase with Ask D’Man who got up by ¾l to beat Go Go Geronimo and doubled up with Vaucelet, who won the novice last year, in the valuable Stratford Fox-

s t t u p t Shor Athlone

Open Week continues until Bank Holiday Monday (6th).

Visitors and members can enter the daily competitions via the BRS booking site or ringing the Pro Shop at 090-6492073.

On the Inter-Club front, Athlone were beaten in the Barton Shield

by Galway GC while the Ladies won their Minor Cup match against Roscommon, winning two matches at home and one away. In the Junior Foursomes, Athlone were unlucky to lose out against Mountbellew.

Results of the recent Women’s Australian Spoon Greensomes were: 1st nett: Maeve Holmes and Aletta Keena (47 points)’ 1st gross: Ann Geoghegan and Yvonne Walsh (31). Both will go on to play in the Connacht Regional Finals in Loughrea on July 18th.

Maura O’Faolain was the winner of the recent 9-hole competition with 16 points while Bríd Kenny won the 97 Club with 27.

Meanwhile, Michael Kenna (39 points) won the recent Open

Wednesday competition, and Padraig Lennon (28 points) topped ant AWGS leaderboard.

The club extends its deepest sympathy to past Lady Captain Maria Elliott and to Gerard, Declan, Cathal and Yvonne on the recent passing of Joe, a former member of the club. May his gentle soul rest in peace.

Ballaghaderreen The winner of last weekend’s 18-hole stroke competition was Anne O’Brien with a nett score of 67. Sarah McDonagh was second with a score of 68. The winner of the 9-hole competition was Maura Madden with a nett score of 32.

Boyle The recent Scramble was notable for having more ladies than men participating for the first time in several years. The winning team consisted of Brendan Gaffney, Bernie Kemple, Maura O’Farrell, and Moira Egan. Michael Simon, Dympna McNamara, Mark Feehan, and Mandy

Toolan were in second place.

The Men’s President’s (Ross Andrew) Scramble takes place on June 12th.

Pat Conroy finished first in the recent Thursday competition with 23 points while Charlie O’Donnell (38) won the recent 18-hole Stableford.

Carrick It is with deep sadness that the club has learned of the death of our past Captain Oliver McGuinness. (Retired District Court Judge) of Shannon Lodge, Carrick-on-Shannon and formally of Roscommon town. The club would like to extend its deepest sympathy to his sons Tom and Oliver, daughters Mairead Lyons and Orla Keaney, daughters-in-law Karen and Arlene, sons-in-law Deasun and Ivan, and his grandchildren and extended family and friends.

May he rest in peace.

Overall winner of the Di Vino Restaurant competition was Frank Mulvey with 65 nett, while Tommy Mulvey (18

by Tom Red

Lester Piggott and Nijinsky.

hunters Champion Hunter Chase beating Law Of Gold by 4l. He also trained the leading Irish point to pointer Some Man to win seven races and has the best strike rate of the handlers, 44% with 20 winners from 45 runners.

Competition Time The following have won tickets for the Kilbeggan meeting on Sunday, Marie Kane, Mary Gordon, and Carmel Cracknell who all knew that Willie Mullins is Ireland’s leading National Hunt horse trainer.

Do not forget to collect your tickets at the office in Abbey Street.

This is your last chance to win tickets for Kilbeg-

gan on the 13th and Roscommon on 14th June.

For Kilbeggan we want to know what is the record SP returned on the horse Sawbuck in Ireland at Punchestown last week?

For Roscommon, please tell us by what name is the racecourse in Roscommon known?

Answers as usual please on a post card to The Roscommon People, Abbey Street Roscommon or by e-mail to tomred17@ gmail.com by 5 pm next Wednesday, June 8th and as always do not forget to include your name, address, and a contact phone number with all competition entries. As usual all tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street.

(News from local golf clubs)

points) and Deirdre McGettrick (20 points) were the Gents’ and Ladies’ winners of the R&A 9-hole Challenge.

Meanwhile, Leo Mulvey was the overall winner of the recent senior competition with 40 points. Other results: Cat 1: PJ Sharkey (36); Cat 2: Sean McMonagle (36); Cat 3: Seamus Sheeran (33); Front 9: Reggie Carroll (20); Back 9: Chris Lowe (20).

Nicola McDonagh won the RnA 9-hole competition on May 19th with 21 points and will go on to represent the club in the next stage. Hannah O’Connor was second with 19 points followed by Dympna McDonnell, who had 19 points also.

The Ladies’ competition on May 17th saw Mary Colleary emerge the winner with 38 points, followed by Jean Timothy with 36.

Castlerea

Roscommon

The annual fundraising Club Classic takes place from June 24th to 26th with plenty of great prizes up for grabs. Entry is €90 per team and booking is available through BRS or castlereagolfclub.ie or Maura on 087-9081571.

The Hession Cup was won by Mary Kenny with 70 points recently. Dympna McDonnell (72) was second and Mamie Creaton (72) third. Thank you to Patricia Hession for her continued support and sponsorship.

Cathal Dinan was the winner of the recent Men’s competition with 40 points while Noel Sharkey was runner-up with 38. Darren Burgoyne was third with 37 points and Mario Costello took gross with 34.

Tresina Smyth (148 nett) was the very popular winner of Charlie Farrell’s President’s Prize to the Ladies. Noreen O’Grady was runner-up with 149, Paula Quinn took gross with 157, and Helen Earley was third with 152.

Meanwhile, J. Halliday won

the Senior Men’s competition on May 26th with 36 points.

Other results: Cat 1: M. Sharkey (35); Cat 2: M. Dolan (35); Cat 3: P. McDonagh (32); Over 80s: P. Moran (32); Deuces: P. Kelly (2), M. Sharkey, J. Cooney, and C. McDonnell.

J. Maxwell won the Senior Ladies’ competition while G. Relihan, F. Thompson, and R. Clarke were second, third, and fourth respectively.

The Club Classic takes place this Saturday and Sunday (June 4th and 5th). Teams of four (any combination) €40 per person. Call the clubhouse (0906626382) or see timesheet to book your slot.

Finally, the Men’s Senior Cup and Barton Shield teams both won their matches against Claremorris during the week.

Unfortunately, the Ladies Revive Active team lost to Enniscrone last Thursday and the Minor Cup team also lost to Athlone.

The ladies Junior Foursomes will play Ballaghaderreen this Saturday (4th).

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Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

SportsPeople Darts

Kelly Cup this Sunday A final reminder that one of the highlights of the Roscommon Darts season, the Kelly Cup, makes a long-awaited return this Sunday, June 5th at The Hollywood Bar in Roscommon town.

Names are to be in by 1.30 pm, with the competition confined to Roscommon League players or those who have been associated with Roscommon Darts.

Format on the day has traditionally been knockout but may revert to Round Robin based on numbers.

For more information contact Ciaran on 086-2634104.

Soccer

Athletics

Roscommon Athletics on the rise!

The Roscommon Athletics Championships took place at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), Athlone on Sunday, May 22nd with almost 200 young athletes taking part.

Six clubs were represented with athletes from Reeside AC, Suck Valley AC, Lough Ree AC, Castlerea Crusaders, Roscommon AC, and SRL AC. Two sessions took place on the day. The first session saw boys and girls in the U-9 to U-11 age groups battle it out on the track, competing in the 60m sprint, long jump, long distance, and turbo javelin.

The top three teams in each event will be entered into the Connacht Championships in Sligo on June 11th.

In the afternoon session, athletes in the U-12 to U-17 age groups competed in the hurdles, high jump, and relays in a fun atmosphere. For many it was the first opportunity to compete on a tartan track, and for many more it was their first ever county final.

U-11 Girls 4x100m Relay: Winners (back row, In recent years there has been a renewed left to right): Reeside AC - Aine Hanly, Bronagh interested in athletics in Roscommon Naughton, Savannah Dolan, and Emily Farrell.

Runners-up (middle row, left to right) Lough Ree - and entries into this competition have Georgina Johnston, Lucy Flynn, Shauna Mulvihill, doubled. Organisers of the event were and Saoirse Dillon. Third place (front row): Suck delighted to see so many children takValley - Ella Costello, Rosie O’Mahony, Bridgeen ing part and pushing themselves to their Brennan, (Katie Glynn missing from photo). limits.

U-9 Girls 4x100m Relay: Winners (back row, left to right): Reeside AC - Hannah Gannon, Maria Clyne, Katie Naughton, Lauren Forde. Runners-up (middle row): Castlerea Crusaders - Madeleine Henry, Lily Markham, Amber Deery, and Ruth Lafferty. Third place: (front row): Lough Ree AC - Róisín Flynn and Aoife Ferguson.

Connacht final heartbreak for Ballinasloe Ballinasloe Town suffered a heartbreaking defeat in last Sunday’s Connacht Junior Cup Final as ten-man Salthill Devon fought back from a goal down to secure a 2-1 win after extra-time.

The Roscommon & District League side had taken the lead after just 12 minutes through Niall Stack and defended stoutly for the remainder of the decider.

However, Salthill Devon finally grabbed the equaliser their performance deserved when captain Shane O’Rourke struck with just fifteen minutes remaining.

O’Rourke was to receive his marching orders shortly after for a second yellow card, but despite this, the Galway League side continued to press for a late winner in normal time.

No further breakthrough was forthcom-

ing, however, and the match went to extra-time.

Ballinasloe had hung on in the closing stages but their resistance wavered just four minutes into extra-time. Vinny Faherty and Tommy McKeown combined for Salthill and the latter made no mistake from close-range.

Salthill still had opportunities to put the tie to bed but were left to hang on as Joshua McCarthy and Ryan Burke spurned Ballinasloe opportunities late on. It wasn’t to be for Peter Keighery’s men however, and Salthill Devon were crowned Connacht champions for 2022.

Elsewhere, Skyvalley Rovers B won the RDFL Division Two Cup following a 2-0 win over Cam Celtic. Darragh Moore and John Shaughnessy were on target for the winners.

What’s the score?

All fixtures and results for boys and girls at all age levels can be accessed on the RDYSL Facebook and Twitter pages.

Follow us...

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer) In association with the

Follow Roscommon Town Youth Soccer on Facebook and Twitter.

Skill Zone - Long passing and shooting...

When you are making a long pass, you should plant your standing foot behind the ball and when you are shooting, your standing foot should be at the side of the ball.

Large turnout for Lough Key Classic The Lough Key Classic cycling sportive took place in Boyle on Sunday, May 15th with nearly 200 cyclists taking part over two challenging distances.

Three organisations will benefit from this year’s Classic including Boyle Scouts, Boyle Family Resource Centre Food Bank and Mayo Roscommon Hospice.

The event would not have been possible without the assistance of a large number of people to whom Curlieu Wheelers Cycling Club have expressed immense gratitude.

The organisers wish to thank all participating cyclists, the Gardaí in Boyle and Ballymote (special thanks to Superintendent Tom Colsh, Inspector Frank Egan, Sgt. Maura McGarry, Sgt. Deirdre Coleman, Garda Tanya Murrihy, Garda Enda Keane); Roscommon and Sligo County Councils; David Harding and Abbey College; Langan’s Fruit and Veg; Kieran Roddy Catering; Michael Finn, Mark Finn, Enda Madden, and Gary Beirne; Catering staff, Helen Betty, Monica, Caroline, Olivia and Noleen; those who assisted at registration; Keith Conroy, Crystal Clear; Boyle Scouts; Joe Conroy; Spool Factory; Order of Malta; local media; Patricia Golden and King House staff; Boyle Sports Complex; Connacht Cycling; Liam McNamara; and all club members and local people who helped on the day.

Work has now commenced ahead of the 2023 Lough Key Classic.

Soccer results TP Brennan Connacht Cup Final Salthill Devon 2 Ballinasloe Town 1. AET RDFL Challenge Cup Semi-Final Shiven Rovers 2 Moore United 1 DK Shield Semi-Final Ballinagare Manor United 4 St. Cuan’s Ahascragh Untied 0 Division Two Cup Final Skyvalley Rovers B 2 Cam Celtic 0

Fixtures Skyvalley Rovers B were crowned Division Two Cup winners last weekend.

Respect & Responsibility...

In recent weeks, all coaches and parents have been asked to subscribe to their respective codes of conduct. The code of conduct for players is now being circulated. It is available to view on our website also. The aim is to implement positive approaches at all times during training and games so that all players can enjoy the game, reach their potential and demonstrate respect and responsibility.

Wise Words...

“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new” - Albert Einstein.

Player Profile...

Name: Izidro Ribas Team: Boys’ U-18 Position: Winger Three words that describe me: Fast, physical, and resilient.

Skill strength: Dribbling Skill weakness: Long shots Favourite team: Man United Favourite player: Ronaldo/Richarlison Best stadium in the world: Turf Moor Messi or Ronaldo or Neither: Ronaldo...

Cycling

longevity, finishing, and physicality. The superior player.

PlayStation or Xbox or Neither: PC Favourite film: Superbad Favourite food: Grilled chicken Favourite book: The Gulag Archipelago What makes me happy: Winning Person you admire the most: Kanye West Why I play soccer: To win Hopes for this season: Finish in the top half of the table.

On the Field...

The boys’ U-18 team beat Cam/Dysart at home on Saturday night. Braces from Caio Mulryan and Jack Raftery and three from goal machine Tommy Naughton eased Town to the three points. While the boys’ U-16 team had a free week, the girls’ U-16 team were in Newbridge to play Shiven Rovers in the Shield semi-final. Katie Carlos scored two but it wasn’t enough to progress to the final.

Two of our three U-14 teams were in action. The Town I team beat Dunmore 4-0. Cian Kiernan scored a hat trick while Tiago Lemos also netted.

Town II earned a well-deserved draw away to Ballinagare. Despite dominating the first half, the home team capitalised on three errors to score three times after Joseph McSharry had given Town an early lead. A long-range free from Scott Duda sailed to the net to reduce the deficit. And with five minutes remaining, a cracking shot from the edge of the area by Rian Grogan found the top corner.

The girls’ U-12 team played Shiven Rovers but lost out to the home side. The Town I boys’ U-12 side lost out to Lough Harps in Lisnamult.

The boys’ U-11 sides played in a blitz on Saturday last in Newbridge and an enjoyable and sporting day was had. Thanks to Padraic Clarke and the RDYSL for organising.

On Sunday, our boys’ U-9 EL and CL sides were in action against Shiven (home) and St. John’s (away). While the EL team had a free week, our U-9 girls CL side were at home to Skyvalley Rovers. On Saturday, our U-7s played away to Shiven. It’s important that players enjoy their games, and that by looking and listening, they will learn and develop.

Thursday, June 2nd Norio’s Premier Division Cup Semi-Finals (8 pm) Castlerea Celtic v Boyle Celtic St. John’s Athletic v Kilkerrin United Friday, June 3rd Norio’s Premier Division Cup Quarter-Final Cloonfad United v Ballinasloe Town.

7.30 pm First Division Cup Semi-Final Shiven Rovers v Ballinasloe Town B. 8.15 pm RDFL Masters League Castlerea Celtic v Colemanstown United. 8 pm Saturday, June 4th DK Challenge Shield Semi-Final At Lecarrow: Dunmore Town v Ballaghaderreen B. 8 pm RDFL Masters League Glen Celtic v Moore United. 7.30 pm Sunday, June 5th First/Second Division Promotion/ Relegation Play-off At Lecarrow: Roscommon United v Skyvalley Rovers B. 2 pm Monday, June 6th First Division Cup Semi-Final Dysart FC/Dunmore Town v CP Ajax/ Ballinagare Manor United. 7.30 pm RDFL Masters League Roscommon United v Strokestown United. 7.30 pm

50

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

SportsPeople

Walsh: ‘One of the sweetest wins’ < SEAMUS DUKE

Man of the match Shane Walsh was understandably delighted when he spoke to the assembled media following Sunday’s Connacht SFC Final which saw him contribute 1-6.

“It’s unreal. I think that’s definitely the sweetest of the lot, especially to win in front of our home supporters. It was something Padraic (Joyce, manager) brought up a couple of weeks ago in training…that we hadn’t won one in Galway since 2003.

It was just huge for the group as well; there are some lads in there

with no Connacht medals. Motivation was high,” he said.

“Obviously, we played Roscommon twice earlier in the year as well. We had our homework done on what they did well”.

The Kilkerrin-Clonberne man said that to win the Connacht title after being promoted earlier in the year is a massive boost to the Galway players and backroom team.

“It’s huge. The elation there in the dressing room speaks for itself. It was great just to come into the dressing room and see smiles on everyone’s faces. A lot of it is

probably the relief there that we got over the line,” he said.

“To a man, everyone dug in.

The backroom team has been excellent. They’re all putting the work in together. They’re putting the platform there for us to go out and perform. They’ve been really driving it on and we’re looking to improve every time we go out.

“The same is going to be said when we get to a quarter-final.

The next four weeks, we are going to be going hard at it to try and perform again, because that’s what it’s all about…to climb the steps of the Hogan on the 24th of July,” he concluded.

‘Castlerea on tour’…pictured in Salthill on Sunday ahead of the Connacht final. Pic: Mick McCormack

Galway’s Shane Walsh pictured in action against Roscommon in the Connacht Final in Salthill on Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Galway man Eoghan Maher pictured under pressure from Rossies Lisa Buckley, Aislinn Farrell and Stiofan O Fearail while at breakfast in Salthill before Sunday’s match between Roscommon and Galway.

Pic: Mick McCormack

Fleet-footed Conor Hussey sets off on a run during Sunday’s Connacht final in Pearse Stadium, where Galway defeated Roscommon by 2-19 to 2-16. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

<< Weekend Rewind

Roscommon People Friday 03 June 2022

Compiled by PAUL HEALY

The

GAA Studio

>>

51

Weekend Fast-forward

Our Team of the Weekend…

Honourable mention to rampant Dublin – who dismantled Kildare with five goals in a 22-minute spell during a surreal Leinster final – and to Galway, well deserved winners with a classy display against Roscommon, but our award goes to an impressive Derry who completed their superb Ulster campaign by defeating Donegal (after extra-time) to claim a first provincial crown in 24 years.

Wishful thinking…

Overheard in the crowd: When Roscommon scored the first point of the game in Salthill, a young lad near us shouted out: “Blow it up, ref!”

Martin’s top 20 Rossies (since ’72)

Foot block? A controversial moment during Sunday’s Connacht final. The referee determined this wasn’t a foot block on Roscommon’s Brian Stack – no penalty! Photo: Mick McCormack

Shock as player muses about winning…

Galway native Martin Breheny has been a long time on the GAA beat. While he’s no longer reporting on games, he still writes a column for the Irish Independent. Sunday’s match programme featured Martin’s choices of the top 20 players he’s seen from Galway and Roscommon over the past 50 years.

Man of the moment Padraic Joyce took first place for Galway, followed by Jarlath Fallon (2nd), Michael Donnellan (3rd), Kevin Walsh (4th) and Seán Óg de Paor (5th).

Here’s Martin’s top 20 Rossies: 1: Dermot Earley; 2: Tony McManus; 3: Harry Keegan; 4: Pat Lindsay; 5: Mickey Freyne; 6: John O’Gara; 7: Danny Murray; 8: Tom Heneghan; 9: Seamus Hayden; 10: Paul Earley; 11: Eamonn McManus Senior; 12: Frankie Dolan; 13: John ‘Jigger’ O’Connor; 14; John Newton; 15: Francie Grehan; 16: Gerry Mannion; 17: Pat Doorey; 18: Fergal O’Donnell; 19: Seanie McDermott; 20: Gay Sheerin.

Hailing Lisa…

Suitably subdued at half-time, Roscommon supporters at least had a surge of pride when a beaming Lisa O’Rourke was presented to the 21,000-plus crowd.

Castlerea native Lisa, recently crowned world boxing champion (and a keen GAA player with Roscommon), received a great ovation from both sets of supporters as she showed off her gold medal.

Kerry man panics…

There is no truth in the rumour that former Kerry great Marc Ó Sé has moved into stand-up comedy. Marc caused some mirth this week when he ranked the main contenders for the Sam Maguire, as follows – 1: Dublin; 2: Derry; 3: Kerry.

“I genuinely think after the weekend, and of course people are going to accuse me of being a cute Kerry hoor now, I would have Dublin at number one, Derry at number two and Kerry at number three the way things are going,” he said on the latest episode of The42 GAA Weekly.

The ‘Kerry’ referred to have won seven All-Ireland senior football titles since Derry’s sole win (1993), are current Allianz Football League champions, and are Munster champions (again)…having defeated Cork and Limerick by a combined 35 points in recent weeks.

Derry are of course having a great season and are in the Sam shake-up, but let’s face it…Marc is being…“a cute Kerry hoor”. *Latest rumour: Marc to tell ‘The 42’ next week: “Sure Kerry might freeze altogether when they get to Croke Park”.

Colm O’Rourke tipped Roscommon for the win in last week’s Sunday Independent.

READ ALL ABOUT IT…

after the game!

Okay, this really has to stop. For years, I thought I was on top of it, that it was under control. On Sunday, I lapsed. It has to end now…

Growing up, I read the match previews in the Sunday papers, because that is what you are meant to do: see what they’re saying about your match.

In theory, it ought to give you confidence if the writers plump for Roscommon; and, if they predict a Roscommon loss, you can always bear a grudge for a few hours/look forward to them being proven wrong. Win-win?

In latter years, I stopped reading the match previews in the Sunday papers, and likewise the online predictions.

I decided it’s much, much better to read the previews after the game. If you read a preview before a game and it predicts a Roscommon win, you’re into some kind of ‘hostage to fortune’ territory! Tempting fate. Of course the dream scenario is for Roscommon to win in style, and then – at your leisure,

after the event – to catch up on prematch analysis that had predicted the opposite.

The last thing you need on the nervewracking day of a Connacht final between two fairly evenly matched teams is an array of positive newspaper headlines or confident online predictions about your team…setting such an optimistic mood just doesn’t sit well with us!

Last Sunday, I ever so briefly lapsed. I allowed myself a glance at the views of an RTE expert online, then – much worse – I paused when flicking through the pages of the Sunday Independent sports’ section. To my horror, I looked.

There it was, in black and white, the headline on Colm O’Rourke’s column: ‘Roscommon have firepower to crush Galway’s title hopes’.

My heart sank. This really has to stop….

-PH

Having for some time now railed against ‘Codology Talk’ in interviews before and after games – it afflicts players and managers in Gaelic football, hurling, and in the UK football leagues too – I was pleased (well, not really, given that I wanted Roscommon to win) to see Shane Walsh’s reaction to Galway’s Connacht final win.

Some context: Managers/players, most of whom engage in clichés in those often tiresome interviews, are completely conditioned to not talk their team’s prospects up…apparently for fear of tempting fate. They will try to distract from their own status as favourites by talking up even the most doomed of opponents. It goes something like this…

Interviewer: “You’ve won 22 games in a row, your opponents are on a historic losing streak, have six key players injured, and played six days ago while you’ve had a break…”.

Player/manager: “We’re taking nothing for granted…they won’t be coming up here to make up the numbers. If we’re not on our game we’ll be sorry…it’s 15 against 15/11 against 11”.

A comment by man of the match Shane Walsh after Sunday’s final was a welcome break from this trend.

He could have said he wasn’t prepared to look beyond the All-Ireland quarter-final, or uttered the dreaded “It’s one game at a time” – instead, Walsh broke rank: “The next four weeks, we are going to be going hard at it to try and perform again, because that’s what it’s all about…to climb the steps of the Hogan on the 24th of July”.

A player who has just won a provincial title actually speculates about climbing the steps of the Hogan and winning the All-Ireland?

It’s called honesty. It’s called being open about what the aim is. It’s a rejection of codology, and it’s refreshing!

Lisa O’Rourke, newly-crowned world boxing champion, acknowledges the applause of supporters after being introduced to the crowd at half-time in Sunday’s Connacht final. Photo: Mick McCormack

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Galway forwards made hay while the sun shone…

Diarmuid Murtagh blasts home Roscommon’s late goal, the final score of the game, in Sunday’s entertaining Connacht Senior Football final in Pearse Stadium, which ended on a scoreline of Galway 2-19 Roscommon 2-16.

Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

The Rossies arrived into Salthill looking to win their first Connacht title in three years. After a brilliant campaign in the league for both sides, this looked like the pick of the bunch from the weekend’s GAA fixtures.

Despite Roscommon having defeated Galway twice this year, the home team were favourites to win the JJ Nestor Cup. Roscommon fans travelled in their thousands. The primrose and blue was spread right around Pearse Stadium on a perfect day for football.

Coming into the match, I was

Roscommon manager Anthony Cunningham

Roscommon manager Anthony Cunningham praised the display of Ultan Harney, by far his side’s best performer on what was a very deflating day for the team.

“Ultan had an outstanding game. He’s had an injury-free run this year.

I’m delighted for him because it’s probably the first year in many years that he hasn’t been injured, and he’s got a great run”.

The Roscommon manager said that he was disappointed to go in at half-time five points down, having played with the breeze.

“I thought our energy levels were probably down a bit and we probably didn’t attack the game as much as we wanted to, early on in particular. I thought the subs did extremely well when they came in, and that’s a plus as well. But early on I thought we could have done better and with the breeze in the first half to go in five points down was disappointing really”.

< ELLIOT GREALY

confident of a Roscommon victory. Roscommon started reasonably well. The sides exchanged scores with some fine efforts.

Cillian McDaid and Cathal Heneghan impressed early on.

This was before Shane Walsh rattled the back of Colm Lavin’s net to score Galway’s first goal. It was a marvellous goal, but poor

Cunningham reacts to loss

defending from Roscommon made it even easier for Walsh to dance around the defence.

A big talking point coming into the game was which team would get their match-ups right. Roscommon managed to keep Paul Conroy at bay for the majority of the game courtesy of a brilliant performance from Ultan Harney in midfield. Harney scored three fine points and was Roscommon’s leading light in the match.

David Murray and Conor Daly were faced with marking Damien Comer and despite the experience of the Padraig Pearses’ men, they simply couldn’t handle him.

Comer scored 0-3 from play.

Robert Finnerty kicked 0-5 from play for Galway in a game where the young man used his experience of playing at home in Salthill to good effect.

Roscommon’s forwards weren’t firing as well as they have been this year. Diarmuid Murtagh and Andy Glennon made a brilliant impact when they came on. Perhaps if Murtagh was introduced earlier in the match, he may have been able to add to his goal on the stroke of full-time.

Overall, Galway fully deserved

Hand off! Enda Smith is the subject of close attention during this phase of play in Sunday’s Connacht Senior Football final at Pearse Stadium.

Photo: Mick McCormack

their 48th Connacht title on a day where Roscommon may

have been in Galway, but simply weren’t at the races.

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Diving in Salthill! Action from Sunday’s Connacht Senior Football final at Pearse Stadium. Galway defeated Roscommon by 2-19 to 2-16. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Walsh wizardry casts spell on Roscommon PAUL HEALY View from the Stand This was a throwback to Connacht finals of the past, with beautiful sunshine, lots of colour, and a very positive atmosphere in the stadium. The good humour in evidence had much to do with the weather and much to do with both counties’ high expectations this year.

Roscommon began brightly, but as the first half continued they drifted into tedious lateral passing moves, punctuated only very occasionally by the injection of pace that offered the best prospect of penetrating a massed Galway defence.

Time and time again Roscommon players drifted out to the wings, where no bounty is to be found.

From early on, there were signs that Shane Walsh, Robert Finnerty and Cillian McDaid were going to be threats.

Roscommon were certainly a match for Galway in that opening quarter, but Anthony Cunningham’s team were less direct than the home side, and having to work harder for scores.

They say goals win games, and while

Roscommon would ultimately match Galway on three-pointers, the home team netting twice in the first half essentially laid the foundations for their win.

Their opening goal was a beauty, and it created the first significant gap between the teams. Moving the ball more quickly than Roscommon, Galway attacked up the right, then switched to the left, where Sorcerer Shane was finalising a new trick in his mind. Two delicious dummies later, then a right-footed finish for a goal that declared serious intent.

1-4 to 0-4 behind after Walsh’s 18th minute wizardry, Roscommon then scored highly on their supporters’ groanometer, firing over a number of wides.

Uncharacteristic, but it happens. Finally, Cox pointed to end the scoring famine.

When Kieran Molloy was black-carded on 31 minutes, it should have boosted Roscommon, but it was Galway who made the next decisive move. There was some good fortune involved, Finnerty’s effort for a point rebounding off an upright. Patrick Kelly proved most alert, the Galway man fielding the unexpected present from the skies, then firing to the net with relish. A mountain suddenly loomed in front of Roscommon in Salthill. Galway led 2-7 to 0-8 at half-time.

For Roscommon supporters, the sunshine was still glorious, but the mood now at least a touch sombre.

Although Galway made a good start on the resumption of play – outscoring Roscommon early on – the visitors played some fine football, and were notably more direct as the second half wore on.

All Roscommon substitutes who were introduced impacted positively, to varying degrees. Richard Hughes made a few great runs, Andrew Glennon posed some threat in the danger zone, while Diarmuid Murtagh’s off the ball running and eventual 1-1 may have enhanced his prospects of starting next time out.

Roscommon were now more direct, injecting more pace, urgency. They certainly couldn’t be faulted for effort. But anything the Rossies could do, Galway could do more of. The home side were a good deal superior on the day. John Daly was having a stormer at the back, McDaid was excellent, Finnerty and Walsh superb, and Damien Comer had now swaggered on to the stage. Walsh, in particular, was majestic. Several of the Galway points were of the highest quality. Roscommon facilitated much of this by being too slow to get back into defence after attacks broke down. On a

number of occasions Galway broke into ‘open space’ at speed, Roscommon desperately scrambling to stop the charge of the maroon brigade. They couldn’t. In contrast to Galway’s fleet-footed forays, Roscommon – despite playing more directly, particularly after the substitutions – frequently ran into familiar heavy traffic.

An excellent goal on 62 minutes – shortly after a penalty appeal had been turned down – gave Roscommon some hope of an unlikely comeback. Conor Daly was on hand to finish to the net after great build-up play, Richard Hughes making a decisive run, Enda Smith going to his inner well three times during that move. Trailing by five – there would be fourteen more minutes’ play – Roscommon could perhaps dare to dream.

But Galway weren’t about to collapse in the cauldron, and instead confidently kept the scoreboard operator on their toes, restoring a very comfortable sixpoint lead as referee McQuillan began to check his watch. There was just time for Roscommon to goal again, Diarmuid Murtagh with a trademark strike which underlined his class. A mention too for Ultan Harney, who was magnificent for Roscommon.

A very classy Galway were most deserving winners. They could have won by more, but there was only three points in it at the end (2-19 to 2-16). Roscommon will take heart from their doggedness, and hope to learn much from the errors of their earlier approach play.

Suffice to say they need to tighten up in defence too. The day belonged to Galway and Wizard Walsh. Roscommon are still very much in this championship and should look to their next fixture with a positive mindset and absolute confidence that they have within their armoury what it will take to progress further.

“

‘On a number of occasions Galway broke into ‘open space’ at speed, Roscommon desperately scrambling to stop the charge of the maroon brigade. They couldn’t’

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Galway claim the silverware as Roscommon run aground in Salthill Cunningham’s sights still firmly on quarter-finals Connacht SFC Final Galway 2-19 Roscommon 2-16 < SEAMUS DUKE

Action from Sunday’s Connacht Senior Football final at Pearse Stadium. Photo: Mick McCormack

Roscommon manager Anthony Cunningham still has his sights firmly set on an All-Ireland quarter-final place – at a minimum – despite last weekend’s disappointing Connacht final defeat to Galway. Roscommon came up short in Sunday’s decider in Salthill, Galway winning by 2-19 to 2-16.

Roscommon will join Donegal, Kildare and Limerick in one bowl in next Monday’s draw with the winners of this weekend’s four qualifiers resting in the other bowl. Mayo play Monaghan, Tyrone take on Armagh, Clare play Meath and Louth face Cork.

After Sunday’s defeat Cunningham said that Roscommon had conceded

Ciarain Murtagh prepares to shoot during Sunday’s Connacht Senior Football final at Pearse Stadium. Photo: Mick McCormack

too much on the scoreboard to be in a position to win a provincial final.

“We conceded too many scores and we have to improve on that. We need to have that bit more energy and drive in our game. But Galway are a fine side, they are worthy champions. For us it’s back to the drawing board but it’s only tweaks that’s needed”.

Cunningham said Roscommon still have a “fantastic chance” of getting to an All-Ireland quarter-final.

“We’ve a fantastic chance of getting to an All-Ireland quarter-final, win the next day and we’re up there. That will be difficult, but we are still looking forward to it. In fact I would prefer to be playing in two weeks again than having to wait for a month” he concluded.

The final margin of three points would suggest that the 2022 Connacht final was a high-scoring thriller – however this was a game that Galway controlled for most of the way and which they deserved to win easily.

All credit to Roscommon – who never gave up – but they were outclassed by a home side who played some tremendous football and especially in the second quarter when they scored two opportunist goals.

Unfortunately for the huge Roscommon following it was arguably the poorest performance of the year and the exhilarating and exciting direct brand of football seen in all previous games this year was absent, with much of the lateral and backwards play often broken up by the Galway defence.

The previously lauded Roscommon attack never got going, and although posting a total of 2-16 was very commendable, too many Roscommon attackers simply did not perform on the day.

In the final analysis Roscommon simply couldn’t cope with the Galway full-forward line of Rob Finnerty, Damien Comer and the irrepressible Shane Walsh, the latter turning in a

Richard Hughes made a big impression when introduced as a second-half substitute in Sunday’s Connacht Senior Football final at Pearse Stadium. Photo: Mick McCormack

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How the West was won (and lost) Roscommon less direct Having played some outstanding attacking football throughout 2022, Roscommon were hesitant and much less direct last Sunday. Eight first-half wides and some poor decision making up front in the second half cost them dearly.

Galway’s lethal line Galway’s inside three scored 1-14 between them and were on fire all day. Rob Finnerty had his best game in a Galway jersey, scoring five points from play, Damien Comer was at his marauding best (scoring three), and Shane Walsh was, well…Shane Walsh. When he’s in the form he was in last Sunday it’s almost impossible to mark him. Scoring 1-6, he was the best player on the field by a country mile.

Galway’s mission

Ultan Harney on the march during Sunday’s Connacht Senior Football final in Pearse Stadium. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

breathtaking performance that included a brilliant 18th minute goal.

Despite playing second fiddle for most of the match, Roscommon battled away and Ultan Harney was immense for Anthony Cunningham’s men all through. While putting up a very respectable total, the Roscommon attack never got into full flow and there was hesitancy in their play. Eight first-half wides told its own story. Galway defended well

for most of the second half and they kept the Rossies at arms’ length.

Diarmuid Murtagh’s goal in the 7th minute of injury-time gave the scoreboard a much better look at the end of the match from a Roscommon point of view.

In brilliant sunshine, there was a tremendous atmosphere in Pearse Stadium, and a huge Roscommon following there to cheer their team on. The first quarter was evenly

fought. With the sides at 0-4 apiece we looked set for a titanic struggle.

Roscommon’s points came from Cathal Heneghan (a goal chance), Conor Daly, Cian McKeon and Donie Smith.

Then in the 17th minute Enda Smith raced through on goal, only to shoot wide. Galway went straight down the other end and scored a quite brilliant goal. Needless to say it was Shane Walsh who took possession, sold two

Conor Cox on the attack in Pearse Stadium last Sunday, where Galway proved too strong for Roscommon in the 2022 Connacht Senior Football final. Photo: Mick McCormack

dummies and crashed the ball past Colm Lavin. It was a fantastic goal, fit to grace any game. It sent Galway on their way.

Galway scored four of the next five points as they surged clear. Kieran Molloy was black-carded for a foul on Ciarain Murtagh in the 31st minute but Galway went in at half-time with another goal in the bank when Rob Finnerty’s shot hit a post in the 33rd minute and Patrick Kelly reacted quickest to lash the ball to the net.

It helped the home side into a 2-7 to 0-8 half-time lead.

With Ultan Harney having a superb game in the middle of the field, Roscommon were never totally out of the game, but Walsh, Finnerty and Comer kept the scoreboard ticking over from a Galway point of view and there was generally seven or eight points between the teams.

In an attempt to turn the tide, Anthony Cunningham brought on a number of subs. Roscommon had a penalty claim turned down in the 60th minute when John Daly appeared to ‘foot block’ Brian Stack who was through on goal. Referee Joe McQuillan gave a ’45 after consulting the umpires.

In the 62nd minute Conor Daly was at the end of an excellent move involving Enda Smith and subs Diarmuid Murtagh and Andy Glennon, the Pearses man fisting to the Galway net to reduce the margin to five.

Conor Cox converted two frees but Galway replied with points from Walsh (a ’45) and Paul Conroy. In the 7th minute of added time Diarmuid Murtagh blasted home a goal after being set up by Andy Glennon.

But the game was over at that stage and the maroon and white ribbons were already on the Nestor Cup. It was a very disappointing display from Roscommon who must now regroup for their appearance in the qualifiers on the weekend of June 11th and 12th.

No player on this Galway panel had won a Connacht title in front of their own fans (at home). It was a major motivating factor for them this year. And or course having lost to Roscommon twice this year they were determined not to make it an unwelcome hat-trick.

Teams & scorers Galway: Conor Gleeson; Liam Silke, Seán Kelly, Jack Glynn; Dylan McHugh, John Daly, Cillian McDaid (0-1); Paul Conroy (0-1), Matthew Tierney; Kieran Molloy (0-1), Damien Comer (0-3), Johnny Heaney (0-2); Rob Finnerty (0-5), Patrick Kelly (1-0), Shane Walsh (1-6, 2 ‘45s, 1 free). Subs: Niall Daly for Tierney (59), Finnian Ó Laoí for Comer (65), Owen Gallagher for Finnerty (70), Paul Kelly for Patrick Kelly (70), Cathal Sweeney for Molloy (74).

Roscommon: Colm Lavin; Brian Stack, Conor Daly (1-1), David Murray; Conor Hussey, Niall Daly, Ronan Daly; Ultan Harney (0-3), Eddie Nolan; Cathal Heneghan (0-1), Enda Smith (0-1), Ciaráin Murtagh (0-1); Cian McKeon (0-1), Donie Smith (0-2, 1 free), Conor Cox (0-5, 3 frees). Subs: Niall Kilroy for Heneghan (h/t), Richard Hughes for Murray (47), Diarmuid Murtagh (1-1, 1 free) for Donie Smith (48), Andrew Glennon for McKeon (58), Keith Doyle for Nolan (58).

Referee: Joe McQuillan (Cavan).

Stat Attack Wides: Galway 3 (2, first half ); Roscommon 9 (8, first half ) Red cards: 0 Black cards: Galway 1 (Kieran Molloy, 31); Roscommon: 0 Yellow cards: Galway 1 (Johnny Heaney); Roscommon 1 (Brian Stack) Man of the Match: Shane Walsh (Galway) Attendance: 21,419

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