03 May 2024 Roscommon People

Roscommon’s golfing aces!

Anna Higgins, Leah Lennon and Olivia Costello proudly hold the cup aloft after the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon sensationally retained the All-Ireland Senior Girls Schools golf title at Milltown Golf Club on Monday. This unique back-to-back All-Ireland success was secured by a whopping 31-point margin ahead of nearest challengers, Killina Secondary School of Tullamore. The win capped a memorable weekend for Olivia Costello who nished third in a world class eld at the British Open Girls U-16 Amateur Championship on Sunday at the Berkshire course.

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Epilim

I would appreciate your advice on a sensitive matter please. I have a history of epilepsy and I was prescribed Epilim while pregnant. My son was recently diagnosed with autism and a family member with a medical background mentioned that there could possibly be a link between my son’s diagnosis and my taking Epilim during my pregnancy. My question is, have you come across this in your legal experience. I understand that you work in the area of medical negligence.

Thank you for your letter. I can confirm that a legal case similar to your situation was litigated before the Courts in recent years. In that case, it was alleged that a neurologist failed to properly inform the child’s mother about the risks of taking an epilepsy treatment drug, Epilim, during pregnancy. The case was settled for a significant eight figure sum. Epilim is a brand name for a medication called sodium valproate (also known as valproic acid), which is used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. Studies have shown that exposure to sodium valproate during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects, including neural tube defects, heart defects, limb abnormalities, and developmental delays. In 2018, an investigation by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) found that over 1,200 children in Ireland may have been affected by sodium valproate since the 1970s. The investigation also found that there were significant gaps in the information provided to patients and Consultant Neurologists about the risks associated with the drug during pregnancy.

In Ireland, there have been a number of legal cases involving the use of Epilim (sodium valproate) during pregnancy.

If you have concerns regarding your own situation, please feel free to contact me for further advice, I will be happy to speak with you in confidence.

With PAUL HEALY

‘CLACK, CLACK, CLACK…’!

I’m sorry?

No need to apologise! CLACK, CLACK, CLACK! Or maybe thud, thud, thud…

Everything okay?

It’s just one of the sounds of the week… I get it… well, I don’t, but I can guess…

Go on…

Micheál Martin banging his head off his desk after reading those opinion poll results?

Nah!

Dublin players bouncing off Offaly players?

Nah!

Hold it! Thud, thud, thud… is it yet another candidate in Midlands-North-West arriving in haste into a civic area to sign their registration papers?

NO! I’ll give you a clue… it’s to do with sport!

Ah, is it the sound that reverberated inside Rory Mcllroy’s head after he spent the night partying with Shane Lowry after their big win in New Orleans?

NO! It’s the sound of the snooker… at the Crucible. Clack, clack, thud, thud… and it’s beautiful!

(They pause to place election leaflets received through their respective letter boxes in alphabetical order)

So…

So I take it you spent the weekend watching snooker?

I watched some snooker… and spent the rest of the weekend watching GAA, soc-

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

cer, golf…

Me too!

Speaking of sports, congratulations to Aoife O’Rourke on winning a third European boxing title! Brilliant! Congrats also to the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon team on retaining the All-Ireland Senior Girls Schools golf title! And Olivia Costello continues her rise as

WATCHING People

‘Clack, clack, clack’… a beautiful sound of this week… and thoughts of Paris 2024!

an international star! Isn’t Aoife O’Rourke bound for the Paris Olympics?

Yes!

Okay. Just wondering… Huh?

You know the way relations between us and the Editor are a bit.. er, tense? In the sense that it’s over two years since you promised to negotiate a new contract with him for our column, and you’ve made no progress? That and the fact that we suspect he has been lining up Joe Brolly to replace us? And that we broke into his office a week or two ago and retrieved the resignation letter that you bizarrely sent him in an effort to call his bluff?

Er, yeah…

SO?

Let’s try a new approach! Let’s be proactive! Huh?

We put a proposal to him! Tell him we’re prepared to cover the Olympics in Paris. You and me, on the ground over there, providing blow by blow – literally blow by blow – accounts of Aoife’s fights! Just imagine, we could file the copy from outside an exclusive bar/bistro overlooking The Arc de Triomphe on the Champs- Élysées!

Brilliant! I’ll draft an email to him straight away! Parfait! Parfait!

(Editor: ‘Get me Joe Brolly on line one’)

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Monksland, Ballaghaderreen and Castleplunkett, local areas that were recipients of a combined €1m in funding as part of the Town & Village Renewal Programme

The Convent of Mercy, Roscommon golf team, who retained the All-Ireland Senior Girls Schools golf title they won last year, a remarkable achievement

Rory McIlroy & Shane Lowry, who teamed up to win golf’s Zurich Classic in New Orleans (with much evidence of great celebrations being posted on social media)

Castlerea boxer Aoife O’Rourke, who won a third European boxing title last weekend

It’s been a BAD week for…

Relations between the Irish and UK governments, this after a major diplomatic spat (still ongoing) over migration

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT: A Creggs U-10s player in action during the recent Aviva Minis National Rugby Festival at Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Pic: ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Excitement is building in Ballinaheglish ahead of this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships, which will be held this Sunday, the 5th of May, in Ballinaheglish by kind permission of Paddy Beirne and family (F42Y436). This year, it’s the 30th annual hosting of the event.

Competitors are asked to start arriving at 9 am to check in, before starting off the competition at 12 noon. All classes of ploughing competition will feature, and the championships will include senior and junior categories for the usual tractor, horse, and vintage competitions, as well as a loy digging competition.

While the ploughing forms the main core of the event, the day in Ballinaheglish is also set to feature other agricultural activities, exhibits, and entertainment, as well as a number of kids’ events

and attractions. Talented local singers will also be performing live and there will be an outdoor dancing floor.

The trade fair and ever-popular craft village will be popular attractions, and Roscommon Hunt will be showcasing a skills demonstration for the public. Various Roscommon vintage clubs will also be present, as well as other enthusiasts interested in the preservation and restoration of old machinery and memorabilia. The Garda Mounted Support unit will also be present.

For more… For enquiries, please contact Roscommon Ploughing Association’s treasurer Martina Beirne on 087 6141503 or email roscommonploughing@ gmail.com.

National Ploughing Association (NPA) Managing Director Anna May McHugh (right) pictured congratulating the newly-elected Roscommon NPA Director Martina Beirne (left) at the recent NPA AGM.

A thank you from Roscommon Easter Parade Committee

The Roscommon Easter Parade Committee would like to thank all who got involved in the recent Easter parade, and all who came along on the day. There was a great standard across the board in terms of the floats and groups involved this year, with top prizes going to the Roscommon Ploughing Association and RUNACODERS.

Roscommon Ploughing Association came in first place, winning a prize of €500, while second place went to RUNACODERS, who received €250.

• Heineken

• Diageo

The Roscommon Easter Parade would like to specifically thank Roscommon County Council, Creative Ireland, An Garda Siochana, Roscommon Community Volunteers, Master of Ceremonies Deirdre Kelly, and all the volunteers who helped over the weekend.

The committee would also like to especially thank all the businesses listed here for their ongoing support year after year.

Plans are already underway for the Roscommon Easter Festival 2025.

A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS

• Roscommon Agricultural Show

• Senator Aisling Dolan

• JJ Harlow’s/Carthy’s Bar

• The Jailhouse

• The Red Parrot

• Down The Hatch

• JC Doorly’s

• The Coachman’s Inn

• Murray’s Bar

• The Brewery

• The Hollywood Bar

• Foxe’s Bar

• The Railway Bar

• Ryan’s Bar

• Hannon’s Hotel

• Regan’s Gastro Pub

• Abbey Hotel

• Gleeson’s Townhouse

• Sean Doyle & Sons

• Kepak

• Dermot Hughes Cars

• All Creatures Veterinary

• Connacht Bottlers

• Casey’s Londis & Supermac’s

• Christy Tully

• Gannon Furniture

• Amigo International

• Callington Ltd

• Conor Cassidy Cars

• Hynes Pharmacy & Best for Baby

• J & C Kenny

• Lidan Designs

• Ardcarne Garden Centre

• Oates Auctioneers

• Molloy’s Carry Out O Licence

• Con Harlow Solicitors

• Donnellan & Co

• Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers

• J Keane & Sons

• Madden Meats

• McGuinness Total Health

• Roscommon Eye Clinic

• Sephoria

• Newsround

• Noel Carr & Co Accountants

• Norio’s

• Patrick J Neilan

• Remax Team Earley

• Roscommon Racecourse

• REA Seamus Carthy

• Time Pieces

• Treacy Decor

• Ward’s Topline

• Cadventure

• Liddy Neilan Solicitors

• Comfy Cafe

• Fleming’s SuperValu

• Richard Lohan Transport

• Sherry Fitzgerald-P Burke

• Advanced Couplings

• AIB Roscommon

• Beauty Secrets

• Lynch Flooring

• Bríd Miller Solicitors

• Castle St Tyres

• Castlemine Farm

• Chaplin’s Barbers

• Chef Kebab

• Denis Naughten TD

• Jackson’s Restaurant

• John Corcoran Menswear

• John Harte Butchers

• Mahon Sweeney Solicitors

• Cllr Marty McDermott

• McNeill’s Shop

• Pat Hughes Auctioneers

• The Peppermill

• Roscommon Mart

• Roscommon Signs

• Ruby King

• Satara Boutique

• The Skincare & Hair Spa

• The Melting Pot

• George Bannon Roscommon Sports

• Apache Pizza

• Frances Finishing Touches

• Cormac Hoare

• Greg Glancy’s Fruit & Veg

• Keen Print

• Molloy’s Bakery

• Rogue & Co

• Roscommon People

• Roscommon Herald

• Signature Flowers

Roscommon Ploughing Association won rst prize for their entry to this year’s Easter parade. Pictured in the back row were Dylan Hoare, James Co ey, Killian White, and Conor Furey, and in the front row were Michael Lambert, Paddy Shaughnessy, and (presenting the prize) is Larry Brennan (Chairperson, Roscommon Easter Parade Committee).

RUNACODERS won second prize for their entry to this year’s Easter parade. Pictured in the back row were Doreen Hoare, Wesley Hoare, Michael Earley, and Gary McDonald, and in the front row are Patricia Mullaney (Roscommon Easter Parade Committee), Keith Hoare, Kyle Leonard, Emilia Shaughnessy, Harry Lee, Harry Elliott, and Patricia Leonard.

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Roscommon’s Palliative Care services recognised

Members of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation and Roscommon Community Palliative Care attended the recent 6th Annual All-Island Children’s Palliative Care Conference held in Portlaoise. Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly was the keynote speaker at the event. During his speech, Minister Donnelly recognised the collaborative efforts of the Mayo

Roscommon Hospice Foundation, Roscommon University Hospital, and the HSE in delivering an exceptional integrated service through Roscommon Hospice and Community Palliative Care.

This collaboration between services ensures that individuals requiring palliative care and support for life-limiting illnesses receive it according to their preferences and needs.

Local students in Young Social Innovators

‘Planet Protectors’, ‘Push Back on Poverty’ and ‘Make our World a Safer Place’.

th of May in the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. The students will join finalists from fifteen other counties who have reached the final of the prestigious awards for their social innovation projects across categories including,

The YSI awards, now in their 23rd year, celebrate excellence in youthled social innovation nationwide and over forty teams successfully pitched to a panel of expert judges to earn a place on the 2024 shortlist.

The students travelling to the Aviva

Stadium from Méanscoil Muire gan Smal, Convent of Mercy, Roscommon Town, have been shortlisted in the Healthy Lives and Sexual Health Award category for their project, Dimensions of Dementia. The full list of projects and shortlisted schools by category, is available at youngsocialinnovators.ie/awards/ ysi-awards-shortlisted-teams/.

Cllr Marty McDermott has welcomed confirmation that road

works will commence in the coming weeks on the N61 Fourmilehouse road.

In a press statement, Cllr McDermott said: “I have made representation on this important issue with Roscommon County Council. There have been issues with potholes on this very busy stretch of road.

“I would like to thank Roscommon

FOR ROSCOMMON LEA Głosowanie Numer 1: McDERMOTT Voto Número 1: McDERMOTT

Continue your preference for Larry Brennan and Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice

Working with Senator Eugene Murphy

Pictured at the 6th All-Island Children’s Palliative Care Conference in Portlaoise were Dee Hickson, CNM3 Roscommon Palliative Care Team; Tina Kenny, Clinical Nurse Co-Ordinator Roscommon; Ursula Donoghue, Roscommon Community Palliative Care; Sarah Banaghan, Roscommon Community Palliative Care; Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, Martina Jennings, CEO, Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation; and Catherine Bannister, Senior Social Worker, Roscommon Community Palliative Care. Pic: Joe Conroy.

newsbriefs

Local politicians welcome over €1.5m in funding for roads

Two local senators associated with government parties have welcomed the recent funding allocation of €1,541,106 for repairs and improvement works on non-public rural roads and laneways in County Roscommon. The funding is under the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS).

Senator Aisling Dolan said that the funding will contribute to the development of rural communities in Roscommon.

“This allocation of over €1.5 million under the Local Improvement Scheme for County Roscommon is a gamechanger for people living on private roads all over the county. It targets road access to homes and farms, which is fundamental for families and farmers all over who need better quality roads. We have many smaller roads, laneways and boreens across the county that have been upgraded thanks to this fund”.

Also welcoming the funding, Senator Eugene Murphy said: “Good roads are absolutely vital for our rural communities, providing access to people’s homes and farms.

“The funding allocation for 2024/2025 for such roads in Roscommon under the Local Improvement Scheme will make a huge di erence in terms of access and connectivity”. He added: “This investment is a clear example of Fianna Fáil’s continued commitment in Government to supporting rural communities”.

Roscommon Town ICA Guild meeting

The Roscommon Town ICA Guild will hold its monthly meeting in Hannon’s Hotel on Tuesday, May 7th, at 8 pm. New members are always welcome.

Castlerea Centre to host Alzheimer’s Tea Day on Friday

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is hosting the 30th Alzheimer’s Tea Day across Ireland this May and The Alzheimer’s Day Centre in Castlerea, Co Roscommon will join the celebrations with Tea Day on Friday, May 3rd, from 11 am to 2 pm.

The 30th anniversary is a significant milestone, as statistics show that at least 30 people in Ireland are diagnosed with dementia every single day.

Michelle Shiel (Castlerea Day Centre Manager) commented: “2024 marks the 30th anniversary of Tea Day and we are delighted to host Tea Day in the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Castlerea Centre to help support our services users, their families and carers”.

Alzheimer’s Tea Day brings communities together across Ireland to support the ASI’s vital work,

Day.

providing much-needed resources and services for the 64,000 individuals living with dementia and their families nationwide. With the number of people diagnosed with dementia expected to double in the next 25 years, the need for support has never been greater.

Over the 30 years, Tea Day has raised €10 million

to help support people living with dementia across Ireland, along with their families and carers. Register on teaday.ie to receive your free organiser’s toolkit, packed with everything you need to host a successful Tea Day event. For more information or to register as an organiser, please visit teaday.ie.

THE BRIDGE CLUB

The most recent results from the local bridge clubs are as follows: Roscommon Bridge Club President’s Prize (President Joan Donnellan) – 1st: Kitty Dowd and Phyllis O’Shaughnessy; 2nd: Carmel Plunkett and Joan O’Shea; Gross: Mary and Vincent Brennan; 3rd: Ann Kildu and Celia Ansboro. 1st Session: Veronica McManus and Mary Farrell; 2nd Session: Kitty Blighe and Mary McDermott. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club President’s Prize (President Chris McGrath) – 1st: Mary and Pearse Mellett; 2nd: Tresina Murphy and Larry Shine; Gross: Mary and Vincent Brennan; 3rd: Joan Donnellan and Margaret Gillen. 1st Session: Mary McDermott and Ann Kildu ; 2nd Session: Kitty Dowd and Celia Ansboro. St Coman’s Bridge Club President’s Prize (President Evelyn Curley) – 1st: Maria Hickey and Gertie Spillane; 2nd: Nuala Costello and Chris McGrath; Gross: Agnes Murray and Maura Moran; 3rd: Ann Shine and Mary Naughton. 1st Session: Ann Flynn and Peggie Kelly; 2nd Session: Kitty Gately and Mary Dermody.

Ballymurray Bridge Club President’s Prize (President Pat Finneran) 1st: Gertie Spillane and Josephine Devaney; 2nd: John O’Gara and George Bannon; Gross: Mary Naughton and Kitty Gately; 3rd: Jill Farrell and Pat Lyons. 1st Session: Rita Roughneen and Maria Hickey; 2nd Session: Peggie Kelly and Kitty Blighe.

Naughten and Regional Group colleagues seek to abolish Carers Allowance means test

A motion which aims to replace the current Carer’s Allowance system with a non-means-tested scheme, focusing solely on care needs, was moved in the Dáil recently by Denis Naughten TD along with his colleagues in the Regional Group.

Denis Naughten said the move was “to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of half a million carers around this country and give them some small recognition for the valuable work that they are doing”. He shared the story of Willow, a

child with a life-limiting condition, whose mother had to sacrifice her successful career to become Willow’s full-time carer. Despite Willow starting school, her mother had to return to school as well because Willow was being denied the necessary support to manage independently in the school setting. Willow’s mother receives €160 a week for this 24-7 care, which she provides 365 days a year. Willow also has a younger brother with a disability but her mum is afraid to apply for the carer’s allowance for

him because she worries about facing another means-test and having her payment for Willow reduced.

“This is the chilling effect that the means assessment of the carer’s allowance is having on carers around the country,” stated Denis Naughten.

The overall potential number of full-time carers who could benefit from the changes proposed by the Regional TDs is approximately 27,000, the group have claimed.

“The independent Parliamentary Budget Office has estimated this

cost at €375 million but this does not take into account the significant administration costs involved in running the carer’s allowance system at present and therefore, I believe that this cost is nearer to €300 million,” said Denis Naughten.

“Not only can this benefit 27,000 carers around the country but more than that, it can give recognition and an acknowledgement to half a million carers around the country that what they are doing on a daily basis is valued and respected by the State,” he concluded.

Francis Ferguson and Kevin Scollan (principal) of Roscommon CBS pictured at the school’s recent Award Ceremony for Leaving Cert students.

Pictured (centre) is student James Connolly, who achieved the maximum points and is now studying physiotherapy in UCD.

Ambassadors Bryan Murray and Úna Crawford O’Brien pictured at the national launch of Tea

Roscommon Rose of Tralee launch is Saturday

The Roscommon Rose of Tralee Centre are delighted to announce that their 2024 competition for the search for the International Rose of Tralee is in full motion, with the Roscommon Rose launch taking place at 8 pm on this Saturday, May 4th, in the Fortfield Suite at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon. Roses from across County Roscommon will be unveiled along with their sponsors at the event, and one of the ladies taking part will be selected as the new Roscommon Rose for 2024 on Saturday, June 1st The main event will take place in the Ballroom of the Abbey Hotel, which will be a ticketonly event.

The newly-selected ambassador will go forward to represent Roscommon in Tralee for the duration of the International Rose of Tralee Festival in August and take part in all the wonderful festivities and live televised final.

Co-ordinator of the Roscommon Rose Centre Yvonne

Donohue states: “We are delighted to be taking part this year in the International Rose of Tralee Festival and are excited that this year’s Roscommon Rose will get to experience the International Rose of Tralee Festival from start to finish in August. We are looking forward to meeting each of our Roses on

May 4th and we thank everyone that is involved in sponsorship of any description. We welcome family, friends and supporters to attend the Roscommon Rose launch”.

For further information, please visit the Roscommon Rose Facebook page or email roscommonrosecentre@roseoftralee.ie.

Pictured with host Kathryn Thomas is last year’s International Rose of Tralee winner, New York Rose Róisín Wiley. Pic: Domnick Walsh

Appeal for witnesses to Ballaghaderreen assault

Gardaí are currently investigating an assault and criminal damage incident that occurred at approximately 2.45 pm on Monday, April 22nd, in Ballaghaderreen, County Roscommon. A man in his 70s was allegedly assaulted during the course of this incident. He did not require immediate medical treatment.

Enquiries are ongoing and Gardaí are appealing to any person who may have witnessed this incident to contact them. Road users with camera footage (including dash-cam) who were travelling in the Brusna area of Ballaghaderreen at the time, are asked to make this available to Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094 9621630, the Garda Con dential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station. REF: PR21757/2024

Roscommon Tidy Towns Church gate collection

Roscommon Tidy Towns Association will hold its annual Church gate collection this weekend, May 4th and 5th. Funds collected will go towards future projects to enhance the town. Roscommon Town will be judged during May in the ‘Best Kept Town’ Competition. Currently, the town is at Gold Medal Status. New members are always welcome to join the award-winning group. Members meet at the courthouse on Tuesday evenings at 7 pm. Your support at the collection this weekend will be greatly appreciated.

Kilcroan Cemetery committee update

The Kilcroan Cemetery Committee would like to sincerely thank everyone who turned up on Sunday, April 21st to clean the cemetery, especially those who came at short notice. It is lovely to see the cemetery looking clean and tidy. We would ask that anyone cleaning their graves take away the wreaths or old owers in order to keep the graveyard as clean as possible, especially after all the recent hard work. Thanks to all for their good wishes as we carry on the great work of the last Kilcroan Cemetery Committee.

Ballagh/Kilrooskey Spring Clean

The Ballagh/Kilrooskey Spring Clean is taking place on Saturday, May 4th, from 10.30 am. Bags, gloves and pickers will be available. All helpers are welcome and appreciated, and those taking part are asked to meet at Ballagh Church at 10.30 am. For more information, contact Frank Fallon on 087-2656401.

Roscommon Graveyards Committee meeting

A meeting of the County Roscommon Graveyards Committee will be held in the Kilbride Community Centre, Fourmilehouse, Co Roscommon, on Monday night, the 13th of May, at 9 pm sharp. Representatives from any cemetery or graveyard committee, whether registered with Roscommon County Council or not, are welcome to attend.

Tisrara NS’s debut in the Aviva Stadium

On Wednesday, April 17th, pupils from Tisrara NS travelled to Dublin to participate in the ALDI Play Rugby National Festival in the Aviva Stadium.

In March, the Four Roads pupils played in a tag rugby blitz hosted by Creggs RFC, and out of 77 schools in Connacht, Tisrara NS were fortunate to be one of the five lucky schools selected to proceed to Dublin.

On the day, they played tag rugby against schools from across the country. They also enjoyed a tour of the home dressing room and saw the Six Nations trophy. They met some Irish rugby ambassadors, including James Ryan and Paul O’Connell, who signed autographs and posed for photographs with the children. Paul O’Connell even lined out for Tisrara NS in one of their games!

Many thanks to Michael Glennon and Pat O’Gorman (CRDOs) Creggs Rugby Club, ALDI and the IRFU for inviting the pupils to such a special event. It was a wonderful day, thoroughly enjoyed by the pupils, teachers, and parents from Tisrara NS.

RWN to unveil intercultural textile art piece

Roscommon Women’s Network are set to hold the official unveiling of their women’s intercultural textile art piece from 11 am to 1 pm on Friday, the 17th of May, at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon.

As well as the official unveiling, this morning event will include songs and stories by the women involved in the project, and will be followed by a light lunch.

Please register by emailing atreanor@rwn.ie, or contacting 086 8099154.

Lanesboro/ Ballyleague Tidy Towns’ Family Fun Day

On Sunday, May 5th, both Ballyleague and Lanesborough Tidy Towns groups are hosting a family fun day in the Green area adjacent to Lanesboro car park between 1 pm and 5 pm.

This is the first ever joint event between the two groups and has been organised to raise their profile in the community, and show that there is a fun side to Tidy Towns – it’s not only about flowers, painting and sweeping/tidying up, etc! Both groups hope that it might encourage more people to get involved.

Events on the day will include free face-painting and a bouncy castle for kids. There will also be a ‘hang tough’ competition, obstacle course, football, darts, and ‘goal scoring’ to name but a few of the other activities in store.

The Japanese car club of Ireland will also be putting on a display of old/vintage cars alongside the fun day event, at the same location. And there will be a special guest appearance by Mickey and Minnie on the day!

Further details are available on the Ballyleague and Lanesborough Tidy Towns groups’ Facebook pages.

Rosary Rally

A Rosary Rally will be held on The Square, Roscommon town at 4 pm on Saturday, May 11th. Prayers in honour of Our Lady of Fatima.

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason speci ed.

Road to be closed: R293 at Meelick to its junction with the R-325 at Roosky, Roscommon

Period of Closure: 20th May to 31st May 2024 (2 weeks)

Alternative Routes: Diversion via R326 & R325 Loughglinn

Reason for Closures: To facilitate Ballinaheltia Bridge Rehabilitation works

Greg O’Donnell

Acting Director of Services

Roscommon Darkness Into Light update

Over 100,000 people are expected to participate nationally in the 16th annual Darkness Into Light Walk, which is being held on Saturday morning, the 11th of May, at 4.15 am.

In Roscommon Town, the local committee are busy making preparations to welcome you all to the Convent of Mercy Secondary School Gym for this year’s walk.

In its 11th year, this walk has gone from strength to strength over the years, testament to the hard work of the local committee and the superb support received from participants each year. Their focus each year is to bring communities together for the most important sunrise of the year, symbolising the journey from despair to hope. The registration fee is so important and helps fund services provided by Pieta.

The local committee are very grateful to all the businesses who have supported them to date with goods and services. They wish to extend a special thank you to the Roscommon Solstice Choir, who make the walk through the town park so very special.

In 2023 in Connacht alone, the charity provided over 4,000 hours of therapy and saw over 500 clients across the province. The charity also supported almost 100 families and households bereaved by suicide. Pieta depends on the funds generated by Darkness Into Light, with over 85% of the charity’s annual income coming from public fundraising. Pieta’s 300 qualified therapists, Suicide Bereavement liaison officers and support staff across the country rely on this

essential income to continue their life-saving work. By participating in the event, supporters can make a real and tangible difference, as the €26 sign-up fee for Darkness Into Light can enable Pieta to answer two calls to their 24/7 helpline, providing immediate support and guidance to those in crisis. When you sign up for this year’s walk you are reminded that by getting involved in the event, you are making a valuable contribution towards Pieta’s vital therapy and support services for those impacted by suicide. Sign up today at darknessintolight.ie.

To avail of Pieta services, visit pieta. ie or call 0818 111 126. Pieta provides 24/7 support via the freephone crisis helpline on 1800 247 247 or by texting HELP to 51444.

Tisrara National School pupils pictured with Irish rugby star and ALDI brand ambassador James Ryan during a recent visit to the Aviva Stadium as part of the ALDI Play Rugby National Festival.

Pupils from Tisrara National School visited the Aviva Stadium recently as part of the ALDI Play Rugby National Festival, where they met Irish rugby star and ALDI brand ambassador Paul O’Connell.

Council’s acquisition marks milestone for Ballaghaderreen

Roscommon County Council is delighted to announce a significant acquisition of derelict properties in the town of Ballaghaderreen.

The Council has successfully purchased thirteen derelict houses in Shannon Valley, Ballaghaderreen, following extensive negotiations and an agreement brokered with the receiver and insolvency firm.

In a press statement, the Council said “this milestone underscores the Council’s steadfast commitment to housing regeneration and community development in Ballaghaderreen”.

The statement continued: “The acquisition of these properties reflects Roscommon County

Council’s proactive approach to repurposing neglected assets for the benefit of the local community. These long-vacant and derelict houses will undergo comprehensive renovation under the guidance of the Roscommon Housing Section.

“Once refurbished, they will be transformed into social housing units, offering essential accommodation for families and individuals in need and assist greatly in addressing housing supply for those on the council waiting list in the Ballaghaderreen area”.

Acting Director of Housing, Culture and International Protection, Ms Fiona Ni Chuinn, said:

“This underscores our unwavering dedication to addressing the housing crisis facing our community. By breathing new life into these derelict properties, it will revitalise this neighbourhood and provide safe, secure housing for those most in need”.

The regeneration project is anticipated to have a transformative impact on the Shannon Valley area and beyond, fostering a renewed sense of pride and rejuvenation within the community.

“We extend our gratitude for the support and cooperation of all parties involved in making this acquisition a reality,” added Ms Ni Chuinn.

Mental Health Awareness and Promotion, are set to host an event as part of Mental Health Ireland’s ‘Hello, How Are You?’ Campaign.

The event takes place from 7 pm on Wednesday, May 15th, in the Mattie McDonagh Centre, Ballygar (F42 V211). All are welcome to attend for an evening complete with great, informative speakers and light refreshments. For further information, contact Bernie on 085 2521200, or Louise on 087 7437443.

Derelict properties in the town of Ballaghaderreen have been purchased by Roscommon County Council.

Ballyforan sisters raise funds for three local causes close to their hearts

Ballyforan sisters Miriam and Rachel Hastings recently raised the impressive sum of over €1,500 for three local causes close to their hearts – the Mayo-Roscommon Hospice Foundation, the Roscommon Special Olympics Club, and Nicola

Brennan-Murphy, with a cheque for €533 going to each of these three worthy causes/ recipients.

The money was raised as a result of the Easter Camp organised by Miriam and Rachel, and they wish to express many

thanks to all who supported them with their fundraising by attending the camp, and also to the Dysart Hall Committee.

Miriam and Rachel hope that the money raised will help each of these deserving causes.

Crosby welcomes road safety initiative for TY students

Councillor Tom Crosby has warmly welcomed the news that Transition Year students are to sit a new road safety module in light of what he called the “shocking and frightening increasing death toll on Irish roads this year”.

Referring to the recent announcement that the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is to develop a new module for TY students, at a time when the death toll on our roads has risen by an alarming 31 per cent compared with the same period in 2023, Councillor Crosby said it was “crucial” that the message gets through that “speed and mobile phone use on the road” had to be confronted.

“So many lives have been lost tragically on our roads and the numbers have been rising scarily,” said Councillor Crosby. “All these people are brothers, sons, daughters, sisters, mothers and fathers and leave shattered families behind and so many of the fatalities have been young people – that’s why this module is so important as there have unfortunately been several schools and communities nationwide plunged into grief through the loss of a classmate in a road traffic accident.

“I wholeheartedly welcome this course as we all know that education is the key when it comes to combatting road deaths and I am delighted that the Road Safety Authority have joined forces with the Department of Education to introduce it.

“For the sake of making your journey a little longer please take your time on the roads and slow down,” concluded Cllr Crosby.

It is hoped that the course will be ready to commence in September 2024.

Call for restoration of full Advanced Paramedic roster in Roscommon

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has told the Director of the National Ambulance Service to honour the “commitment made by Government and the HSE” for a 24/7 Advanced Paramedic on the rapid response vehicle for Roscommon by urgently restoring the full Advanced Paramedic roster here.

Deputy Kerrane referenced the fact that when the Accident & Emergency Unit was removed from Roscommon Hospital a number of years ago, a rapid response vehicle was put in place with the promise of an Advanced Paramedic on a 24/7 basis for the county. She said this was a direct commitment made by the Minister and Taoiseach of the time, and by the HSE, in response to the closure – given the distance people in the county would have to make to get to the nearest A&E.

Deputy Kerrane said: “I now understand that on one shift, a Paramedic is filling the role of an Advanced Paramedic on the Advanced Paramedic roster. This is unacceptable and flies in the face of the commitment made to the people of Roscommon. I understand there is no lack of Advanced Paramedics and this is not the reason the roster is not being filled as it should”.

Deputy Kerrane disputed a claim by the HSE that the roles of a Paramedic and Advanced Paramedic are similar, stating that Advanced Paramedics are the only personnel in the National Ambulance Service who can provide advanced life support.

“The full Advanced Paramedic roster must be restored, ensuring the commitment to the people of County Roscommon

oured”,

Ballyforan sisters Miriam and Rachel Hastings pictured presenting a cheque for the sum of €533 to athletes in the Roscommon Special Olympics Club.

Ballyforan sisters Miriam and Rachel Hastings pictured presenting a cheque for the sum of €533 to board member Oliver McGuinness in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation.

Ballyforan sisters Miriam and Rachel Hastings pictured presenting Nicola Brennan-Murphy with a cheque for the sum of €533.

is hon-

Deputy Kerrane concluded.

Pictured at the recent Mental Health and Addictions information event held at King House in Boyle, which was hosted by Boyle Family Resource Centre, Boyle Celtic FC and Boyle GAA & LGFA, were (l-r) Amy Kelly, gambling addictions counsellor; Louise Moran, Boyle Family Resource Centre; Tony O’Reilly, guest speaker, addiction counsellor and author of ‘Tony 10’; and Declan Cawley, senior psychotherapist. Pic: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the recent Mental Health and Addictions information event held at King House in Boyle, which was hosted by Boyle Family Resource Centre, Boyle Celtic FC and Boyle GAA & LGFA, were (l-r) Sinead Raftery, clinical lead with Boyle FRC; Brian Nerney, Boyle FRC chairperson; and Amy Kelly, gambling addiction counsellor. Pic: Brian Farrell

Romano O’Kane (left) and Dean Reddy (right) of the ‘Lock, Stock & Two Joking Addicts’ podcast pictured at the recent Mental Health and Addictions information event held at King House in Boyle, which was hosted by Boyle Family Resource Centre, Boyle Celtic FC and Boyle GAA & LGFA. Pic: Brian Farrell

Clodagh comes out on top for Roscommon at Spelling Bee final

Eason is delighted to announce Clodagh Fergus as this year’s winner of the County Roscommon Eason Spelling Bee Final.

Following a tense competition in which she faced fourteen fellow students, Clodagh, a student at Ballymurray National School, triumphed in the Roscommon final by correctly spelling ‘valediction’. Clodagh will now represent Roscommon in the Provincial Spelling Bee in May.

Celebrating its 11th year, the Eason Spelling Bee is part of an overall literacy and reading drive to encourage and

inspire children to develop their spelling and pronunciation skills.

The All-Ireland winning bee will get a selection of books for their school library valued at €7,500, in addition to the coveted title of Eason Spelling Bee 2024 Champion. The winner themselves will also receive a goodie bag packed of books worth €500.

Keep up to date with all the 2024 Spelling Bee buzz on easons.com/spellingbee and by following @easons and #EasonSpellingBee on social media.

Pictured is Clodagh Fergus, this year’s winner of the County Roscommon Eason Spelling Bee Final.

Pictured are participants in the recent County Roscommon Eason Spelling Bee Final.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Slán-te – time to say bye to old drinking habits?

Our columnist Frank Brandon weighs in with his thoughts on binge drinking classification, the lack of sparrows about as the summer nears (maybe they’re waiting for the good weather to arrive first!), what the busy weekend in sport indicates for teams’ future, and the exciting couple of days ahead for Creggs!

I have to admit that I’ve always enjoyed a pint or two – in fact there were times in my younger years when I may have enjoyed one a bit too much. However, in latter years,

I’ve definitely got much better at rationing the number of pints I drink, and in my own mind, I have become a very disciplined and controlled social drinker.

All to say that binge drinking and its dangers are something I have always been wary of, and mostly I would associate it with the younger set. The Saturday night disco crew would be the biggest ‘culprits’, and any time I’d see reports on the binge drinking culture in Ireland, I would jump to the conclusion that they were mainly responsible for the very worrying figures.

And so when I saw a report this week that shows there is a large number of binge drinkers in the older age groups, it knocked a bit of a hop out of me.

I wondered where all these older folks were going in order to go on these binges.

Can anyone stop Limerick juggernaut?

It’s now Sunday evening as I write and I have just spent a few hours watching sport on the telly – and after it all, I can only imagine that every inter-county hurling manager in Ireland will find it difficult to get to sleep tonight! That is of course except for Limerick’s manager, John Kiely!

I started off the day by helping Carol plant a few shrubs and flowers in the garden, before watching Galway and Kilkenny play out a thrilling draw in the Leinster Championship – and if I didn’t happen to see the Limerick masterclass later against Tipperary, I might even have thought that one of those two earlier teams would have a decent rattle at the McCarthy Cup. However, the four-in-a-row All-Ireland champions are simply a class above every other county, and as good as the other counties in the Munster Championship (especially Clare) are, it seems to me there is absolutely no chance of anyone winning it other than the unstoppable Limerick juggernaut.

In the football, Jim McGuinness continues to work his magic, and he has already brought Donegal

to an Ulster final. Meanwhile the joke that is the Leinster Championship still continues with the Dubs handing out another drubbing to the unfortunate Offaly team. And for Louth, the hugely doubtful privilege of making it to a second Leinster final in a row has to be tainted by the fact that they too will certainly suffer another humiliation at the hands of the Dubs, who will then have won 19 of the last 20 provincial championships.

I don’t know what the powersthat-be in Leinster can do to revive their competition, but surely it can’t continue in the present format?

I also managed to see a bit of the Premiership games over the weekend, and, as a long-time Manchester Utd supporter, I simply cannot get over how poor a team they have become. If Ten Haag doesn’t think they are an embarrassment to the jersey, I certainly do.

Anyway, along with a visit to Kilbride on Friday evening, where we got a very welcome win in the O’Gara Cup, that was most of my sporting weekend. I freely admit that I don’t know what I’d do if sport didn’t exist!

Were they all going to the big country music dances that take place all over the country at the weekends and lashing it down round the sumptuous hotel bars? Maybe they were chartering special ‘drinking buses’ to bring them to all sorts of events round the country, or were ‘bingo buses’ being secretly used by OAPs as ‘booze cruises’?

I have to say that my interest was totally fuelled by the revelations, and it was only when I dug deeper that I realised that I too am part of the problem. So too are most of the sensible older folk that you chat with, and maybe have a pint with, on Saturday nights in little country pubs all over Ireland. Because statistics tell us that anyone who drinks three pints in a session is a binge drinker.

Now I am not going to challenge any medical reports, and I fully agree with the assertion

Flight delayed? Sparse sparrow sightings as summer approaches

One of the very welcome visitors to Ireland every year is the swallow, and one of the great mysteries of nature is how they manage to fly more than 6000 miles from southern Africa to arrive back here every year some time around mid-April. Around the middle of September, they hit back again, spending the winter months in Africa before landing back in Ireland the next year. Amazingly, up to half of them actually come back to where they nested the year before, and for the entire summer they are constantly darting here and there at enormous speed, eating loads of midges and flies and other insects they may come across in flight.

The farmer traditionally loves to see them arrive, as they associate the summer with their reappearance. And so, writing this on the last week of April, I wonder where are they?

A few weeks ago we were vis-

iting our daughter in Castlebar, and on our way to Mayo we heard a lad from Bonniconlon tell Paul Claffey (on Midwest Radio) that the swallows were back in that little village. Now Gerry Glennon was a bit sceptical at the time as to whether or not they were actually back, but as a result of the call, I have kept an eye out every day since and have yet to see one! On Thursday evening I thought I saw three of them, but as there has been nothing since, I now think they must have been sparrows. So my search goes on, but if you see a returning swallow, please let me know!

Talking of Bonniconlon, we have gone a couple of times to the massive show that takes place there every summer, and we have a good long-time friend and former fellow bank worker, Geri Boland, living down there. Wonder has she seen the swallows?

that alcohol is a highly dangerous drug that can cause untold harm to individuals and their families, and totally accept the facts about drink-driving (and support every effort to stamp it out completely). However, if only for my own peace of mind, and to keep myself happy to go for a few quiet ones, I find it hard to accept that three pints makes a person a binge drinker.

No one of my vintage that I know of would be even the slightest bit inebriated after three pints, and in my opinion all it does is inflate the numbers and make the overall picture look worse than it actually is. I reiterate that I am fully aware of the dangers of alcohol abuse, and fully support any attempts to deal with the problems, but I do not accept that my few pints on a Saturday night make me a 73-yearold binge drinker!

And finally…

Excitement is building out here in Creggs as the local rugby club looks forward to one of the biggest weekends in its 50-year history!

At 2.30 pm on Saturday next, May 4th, we will be hosting the junior interprovincial between Connacht and Leinster, with the western province hoping to bounce back after a losing trip to Ulster last weekend. A big crowd is expected, so get to Creggs in good time and give great support to a Connacht side that (hopefully) will include a number of our own club players!

Five Creggs players – Shane and Mark Purcell, Eoghan Coyle, Brian Diffley and Eoghan Cahill – featured last weekend, so let’s all come out and support them this Saturday against a Leinster team that drew with Munster in Kilkenny last weekend. We might even have a sixth lad involved if Mark Dowd recovers from injury in time.

As soon as the dust settles on the Interpro, the following evening (Sunday, May 5th), the club is having its end-of-season awards and dinner dance, kicking off at 7.30 pm in the Abbey Hotel, with a sumptuous three-course meal and live music in store.

The winning junior 1C and junior 1A teams will receive their respective Connacht medals, and it will be a great opportunity to look back on a very successful season on the rugby fields, with great strides being made in both underage and girls’ rugby too.

Then, to cap it all off, Monday will see the draw for a massive first prize of €20,000 take place in the clubhouse. In case you haven’t got your tickets yet, you can get them online at creggsrugby.ie, or from any club member that you come across!

There are other prizes too, with international rugby tickets to be won, and of course €20,000 is a hugely significant amount of money, so if you want to be in with a chance make sure you have your tickets got! Tickets are €20 for one, €50 for three, and €100 for seven.

Best of luck to you all, and if you win it, enjoy spending it!

Friends of Irish Environment:

‘We appreciate anguish of locals’

EMMETT CORCORAN



The ongoing flooding issue at Lough Funshinagh has become a focal point for conflict between environmental advocacy and the urgent needs of local communities.

As water levels continue to rise, Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE), a group advocating for adherence to European environmental laws, has criticised the approach taken by Roscommon County Council.

According to a statement issued in recent days by FIE, the council’s decision in early May 2021 to bypass required Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) for flood relief efforts contravened EU laws.

The council initially pursued a legal and rules-based approach, consulting with the National Parks and Wildlife Service and planning based on an environmental impact statement. However, they later reverted to using a 1949 Act, which pre-dates current environmental assessment requirements, to expedite flood relief measures.

“FIE challenged this in the High Court and the Council put up no defence, yet we had to return again to the Courts when work recommenced in breach we say of the

High Court Order,” the statement from FIE said. This has led to significant concern among environmentalists about the precedent such actions may set.

In its statement, the FIE said: “All of those who work with FIE appreciate the anguish and anxiety that people are experiencing in the local area and have the greatest sympathy for the families who have been affected by flooding at this turlough; any flooding of a home is a frightening experience; the loss of

one’s home is one of the most traumatic experiences one can have; and the creeping nature of groundwater flooding is particularly hard to endure”.

Local groups and politicians have voiced their growing concern over the impact of flooding on homes and farmland. They argue that immediate action is required to mitigate the rising water levels, which continue to threaten the region’s infrastructure and community wellbeing.

The discord highlights the complex balance between environmental conservation and the immediate needs of communities facing natural disasters.

As both sides seek solutions, the need for a balanced approach that respects both legal environmental protections and the urgent needs of affected residents remains a pressing issue for Roscommon County Council and national authorities.

Tánaiste to visit Lough Funshinagh

Local politicians have welcomed confirmation that Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD is to visit Roscommon to view the ongoing flooding crisis at Lough Funshinagh in person. The Tánaiste plans to make the visit on Wednesday, May 22nd Among those welcoming the news was Independent councillor Laurence Fallon, who said it was in response to an invitation he had extended. Senator Eugene Murphy has also welcomed news of Deputy Martin’s planned visit, which he said was delivery on a commitment given to him (Senator Murphy).

Senator Murphy said that Tanàiste Micheál Martin will visit and meet with the people of Lough Funshinagh area and Cur-

raghboy village following a commitment given to him over a month ago: “I am glad Micheál Martin is honouring his word to me and to the local community”, he said.

“In the meantime, it would be great if the Government found the space to bring forward legislation to ensure water could be drained from the lake.

“I spent a few hours in Curraghboy area recently – meeting families – and they are scared out of their minds. The water is beginning to engulf that area and if that village falls to the flood, there will be great frustration from the public”, he stated.

For his part, Cllr Fallon said: “The situation

at Lough Funshinagh was at crisis point when I wrote to the three leaders of Government over a month ago. The situation has escalated even further since then, with more homes at high risk of flooding, another road closed, and farmyards and land destroyed.

“While I welcome the fact that the Tanaiste has accepted my invitation, that visit is still three weeks away and this is an emergency situation which needs emergency intervention. I am urging the three Government leaders – the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and leader of the Green Party – to find an immediate solution to the devastation that is unfolding here,” stated Cllr Fallon.

Ballaghaderreen to revive tradition of the May Day Fair

This May Bank Holiday, ‘The Shambles’ in Ballaghaderreen will again play host to an event which in the past saw people come from far and wide to sell their produce. Ballaghaderreen has operated as a fairs and market town since the 1700s, once having seven fairs annually. Organisers (Ballaghaderreen Tidy Towns) now want to breathe new life into the town’s long-standing history of ‘fair holding’ by hosting a fair on May Day.

People are invited to join the tradition of the fair day of years past at ‘The Shambles’ on the Charlestown Road, where there will be music, crafts, market stalls, food stalls, fair games, and a dog show.

Don’t forget to join us from 11 am to 6 pm on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6th, at ‘The Shambles’, Ballaghaderreen.

Sarah McCarthy from Failte Ireland pictured during her recent visit to Roscommon and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands’ tourist hotspots, pictured here being welcomed to the Abbey Hotel by Geraldine Grealy, Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

Water levels at Lough Funshinagh are very high for this time of year. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Voice of the People

Chambers calls for immediate response to ‘Funshinagh’ crisis

Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers, European election candidate for the MidlandsNorth-West, has voiced an urgent call to action following her visit to Lough Funshinagh in Co Roscommon, where persistent and worsening flooding has put the local community at grave risk. Water levels have been steadily rising since September 2023 and have now reached record high flood levels.

Senator Chambers, having witnessed the dire conditions alongside Fianna Fáil local election candidate James Murray, described the scene as shocking and the lack of long-term solutions as unacceptable. She noted that already families have had to

move from their homes in the area, due to the threat of flooding.

“It is imperative that we take immediate and decisive steps to mitigate the flooding at Lough Funshinagh” Senator Chambers stated. “The community is facing a critical threat, with further homes at risk of being submerged and valuable farmland already lost. This is a clear example of the sort of regional imbalance we must correct”.

Senator Chambers reiterated the calls for prompt government action and highlighted the need for a sustainable solution to restore Lough Funshinagh to safe levels and protect the region’s natural heritage.

Fergal Landy selected as Labour candidate for ‘Europe’

At the recent Labour Party selection convention in Galway city, Fergal Landy (currently CEO of the Family Resource Centre National Forum) was selected as the Labour candidate for the Midlands-North-West constituency of the European Parliament. Mr Landy is also running for election to Galway County Council in the Athenry-Oranmore local electoral area.

At the convention, he outlined his key priorities for Midlands-NorthWest, with a focus on balanced regional and rural development, protecting Ireland’s neutrality, and the absence of long-term planning, which has had such an impact on cities like Galway.

With an expertise in community development, social work and human rights, Mr Landy told Labour members: “Key issues on the campaign will be housing, the environment, and strengthening social Europe. In particular I want to focus on how cities like Galway and our rural hinterlands can be better served by Europe.

“The three principles that will underpin my campaign, and my work, if elected are: a clear line of accountability between the citizen and the European Union, a rightsbased approach to public service provision, and an economy that serves society – not the other way around”.

Fallon highlights need for increased farm safety

need for farmers to increase onfarm safety was highlighted by Cllr Laurence Fallon on World Day for Health and Safety at Work.

“Frightening statistics show that farming is the most dangerous occupation in Ireland,” stated Cllr Fallon.

“The rate of casualty, death and serious injury is far higher on farms than in any other industry.

“The reason for this is farmers are finding themselves under more pressure due to a lack of labour, the age

Women urged to make voices heard in Local Elections 2024

Over 25 women from all over County Roscommon attended the recent voter education workshop which was held in The Hub, Castlerea. Many of the women in attendance were from the EROC centre in Ballaghaderreen, while others are resident in Frenchpark and Castlerea. Some local women from Roscommon Women’s Network joined women from Syria, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and India to learn more about the Irish voting system.

Some of the women in attendance have lived in County Roscommon for over 20

years while others are new to the area and were delighted to learn that you don’t have to be an Irish citizen to vote in the local elections this June.

Some of the issues raised from the Ballaghaderreen area included a lack of investment or employment for young people, the lengthy closure of the public library (which recently re-opened at a temporary location) and a lack of sport facilities for young people, including the ongoing closure of the swimming pool.

Nora Fahy (Manager of RWN) remarked that, “In

a year of referenda, local and European elections and possibly a general election before the end of the year, many of the women from diverse communities we work with have highlighted a need and desire to increase their awareness around what’s happening in Irish politics. There was great feedback from the women who attended the workshop as it really helped to explain the Irish political system and provided all the information women need to make informed decisions”.

Workshop topics included a brief history of voting in

Ireland, reasons to vote, types of elections and voting rights, and the services Local Government provides for you.

Roscommon woman Mairead O’Shea, who is Communications Manager with See Her Elected, said that the idea underpinning representative democracy is that it produces a county council that looks like the people living in the county.

“If we have a county council where there are not many women and little or no diversity, then the council does not look like the society it represents”, she said.

factor of today’s farmers and due to the fact that livestock are becoming more difficult to handle”.

Cllr Fallon pointed out that it has become “more and more important that farmers do their best to make their facilities safer through better lighting, safety doors, manhole covers and livestock handling”.

He also highlighted the importance of farmers complying with health and safety regulations.

“Should something happen on the

farm”, he said, “then farmers could be in trouble with the HSA and it is important they understand the laws governing employing labour on the farm, machinery rules such a quad bike training permits, and making sure vehicles are in safe working order.

“Serious accidents have a devastating effect on the whole farm family and on the community, so we need to make every effort to make people aware of the dangerous occupation they are working in”, he concluded.

Pictured is Fergal Landy (currently CEO of the Family Resource Centre National Forum) who was recently selected as the Labour candidate for the MidlandsNorth-West constituency of the European Parliament.

Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers

Masuma Mohadi, Sharifa Sharifa Mohadi, Adeola Akinwunmi, and Sara Vaezi pictured in The Hub, Castlerea, at the recent Voter Education Workshop.

Aine Treanor (Community Development worker with RWN), Temitope Rasheedat Adenigba and Moyosade Princess Oyinloye pictured at the recent Voter Education Workshop run by RWN in association with See Her Elected and held in The Hub, Castlerea.

Mairead O’Shea (Communications Manager with See Her Elected), Nora Fahy (Programme Manager with RWN), and facilitator Liliana Fernández pictured at the recent Voter Education Workshop in The Hub, Castlerea.

The

Voice of the People

MEP Maria Walsh launches campaign

Sitting MEP Maria Walsh is bidding for a second term in the European Parliament, having officially launched her re-election campaign this week.

MEP Walsh’s campaign was launched by Minister for Rural Development and Social Protection, and Fine Gael Deputy Leader, Heather Humphreys. Ministers Alan Dillon and Hildegarde Naughton,

Deputy Michael Ring and former MEP Jim Higgins also spoke at the event in the TF Royal Hotel in Castlebar on Monday evening.

MEP Walsh was joined by friends and family, Fine Gael members from across the Midlands-North-West, councillors, senators and local election candidates.

Speaking at the event, Maria Walsh (MEP for Midlands-North-West) said, “Nobody will be surprised to hear that the transition from Rose of Tralee to MEP was not the most traditional route into politics, but after five years in the European Parliament, I have a strong track record to share”. She pledged to continue to campaign on farming, mental health and wider rural issues.

Callaghan welcomes investment in Ballaghaderreen

Cllr Liam Callaghan has welcomed the recent continued investment in the town of Ballaghaderreen that has taken place over the last number of weeks, highlighting the Government’s “continued support to the town” and welcoming the allocation of over €1m in Just Transition funding.

This funding will be used to develop a unused filling

station into a community training facility and community hub. €500,000 was also allocated to develop a community park at the plots in Ballaghaderreen under the town and village scheme. Cllr Callaghan also welcomed the news that Roscommon County Council have purchased 13 unfinished houses at Shannon valley with the intention to develop for social housing.

Cllr Callaghan said this is a direct result of a request he made at a recent meeting for the Council to invest over €3 million in the town to tackle unfinished estates and dereliction, and that this investment is a direct follow-up to the €4 million worth of regeneration works that have commenced recently in the town centre.

Fine Gael cannot be trusted on neutrality – MEP MacManus

Sinn Féin MEP for Midlands-NorthWest, Chris MacManus, has claimed that Fine Gael cannot be trusted on Irish neutrality.

MEP MacManus said, “The Taoiseach’s comments about ending the triple lock within the lifetime of his government’s time in power has exposed yet again that Fine Gael cannot be trusted on Irish neutrality.

“The people of Ireland are proud of

our history of neutrality, and rightly so. On the international stage Ireland’s neutrality has been fundamental to the unique role we play in peacekeeping and diplomacy. It is a strength for Ireland and one that the Irish people value.

“Weakening or ending Ireland’s neutrality would be a fundamentally negative shift in Ireland’s foreign policy. The Taoiseach’s comments expose yet again

how utterly out of touch Fine Gael are on this issue.

“His comments come at a time when Fine Gael’s cosy relationship with Ursula Von der Leyen has raised alarm bells. Fine Gael MEPs have backed Ms Von der Leyen’s bid for re-election as Commission President, despite the fact that her time in office has been damaging for Irish neutrality at every turn.

“She has been one of the driving forc-

es behind the growing militarisation agenda of the EU, which disrespects Ireland’s long-held neutrality. She has indicated that the next European Commission should include a dedicated defence commissioner. Such moves would be a clear violation of Irish neutrality.

“It is clear that Fine Gael are totally out of touch with the people of Ireland on this issue, and cannot be trusted on Irish neutrality”.

Inadequate lighting on Castlerea Main Street –McDonagh

Sinn Féin candidate for the Roscommon LEA Christine McDonagh has called for the provision of extra lighting in Castlerea town centre.

Ms McDonagh said: “Provision of an extra street light on the Main Street in Castlerea is badly needed in the interests of public safety for both pedestrians and motorists.

“The lamppost facing the Ballindrimley junction has been damaged for a number of years and was never replaced. This is causing poor lighting in the area for pedestrians walking along Main Street and coming up the lane at Layland’s Corner, as well as for traffic using this lane.

“I will be looking for Roscommon County Council to address this issue as soon as possible. These kind of basic maintenance works are crucial to ensure the vitality and safety of our town centres across Roscommon”, she concluded.

Sampey welcomes Ballaghaderreen Park funding

Fianna Fáil local election candidate

Aidan Sampey has welcomed the Government’s recent funding announcement for the Ballaghaderreen Park development.

Mr Sampey stated he was “delighted to see this project being prioritised”.

“Ballaghaderreen needs more projects like this”, he said, “and if elected to Roscommon County Council, I will focus very much on further amenity developments in the locality.

“The community in this area is crying out for support and investment and I am confident this Government will deliver further”.

MEP Maria Walsh (middle) pictured recently at the launch of her European Parliament election campaign, along with Minister Heather Humphreys and former minister Deputy Michael Ring. Pic: Andrew Downes (Xposure)

MEP Maria Walsh pictured speaking at her recent European Parliament election campaign launch in the TF Royal, Castlebar, Co Mayo. Pic: Andrew Downes (Xposure)

MEP Maria Walsh pictured recently at the launch of her European Parliament election campaign, along with Minister Alan Dillon TD. Pic: Andrew Downes (Xposure)

MEP Maria Walsh pictured recently at the launch of her European Parliament election campaign, along with former MEP Jim Higgins. Pic: Andrew Downes (Xposure)

MEP Maria Walsh pictured recently at the launch of her European Parliament election campaign, along with Minister Hildegarde Naughton. Pic: Andrew Downes (Xposure)

Cllr Liam Callaghan pictured with Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr John Keogh.

StrokestownInternationalPoetryFestival

Strokestown International Poetry Festival kicks off this weekend

After much anticipation, the 2024 Strokestown International Poetry Festival will take place this May Bank Holiday weekend, running across three days from Friday, May 3rd, to Sunday, May 5th inclusive, with the venue being the magnificent Strokestown Park House and Gardens.

As ever, this year’s event promises to be a great festival, with a number of very high profile names in the world of writing and poetry – locally, nationally, and further afield – set to feature as speakers/performers

over the three days, in addition to the myriad of different exciting events that have been organised.

Friday

The first day of the festival will see a ‘Roscommon writers reading’ taking place with Gerry Boland, Louise C Cole, Jessamine O’Connor, and Michael O’Dea. This will be followed by speakers Rita Ann Higgins and Thomas Lynch, two extremely accomplished writers.

Saturday

The second day will kick off with a poetry workshop delivered by Roscommon poet Jane Clarke. There will also be a screening of ‘Learning Gravity/The Undertaker’, followed by a bilingual poetry reading with Celia de Fréine and Eithne Ní Ghallchobhair. Two launches will follow this reading: the launch of ‘Washing Windows IV: Irish Women Write Poetry’ with Liz McManus, Jackie Lynam, Phyl Herbert, and Shauna Gilligan (among

others), and a book launch with Tony Curtis and Gerard Reidy, which will see the two writers present new work.

The evening’s events will include two more poetry readings – one featuring Patrick Deely and Enda Wyley, and another with Jane Clarke, Pat Boran, and Mary O’Donnell –and the day will wrap up with a ‘Los Lorcas: Poetry in Concert’ event, which will see poets Partridge Boswell and Peter Money perform with guitarist Nat Williams.

Novelist and festival curator Belinda McKeon will deliver the Joan McBreen Lecture following the competition results, and after this lecture, a launch will take place in which Eva Bourke, Geraldine Mills, and Joseph Woods will present new work.

The last poetry reading of the festival will then take place, featuring Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin and Peter Sirr, and this will be followed by ‘Brilliant Mysteries: Music and Poetry’, another poetry-infused musical entertainment event, this time featuring Duke Special and James Harpur.

Sunday

The final day will deliver another busy line-up of events to wrap up this year’s festival, kicking off with a talk from poet and filmmaker Pat Boran. This will be followed by the launch of ‘Cyphers 97’.

Tickets/more details

To buy tickets for any of the events taking place this weekend, visit StrokestownPoetryFest.ie, where further details about this year’s events and the festival in general can be found.

Then, at 2 pm, the winner of the Strokestown International Poetry Festival Competition will be announced, with readings from shortlisted poets and the winner to be included.

You can also keep up to date with all the latest updates by following the festival and its hashtag on social media.

Pictured is award-winning Roscommon poet Jane Clarke, who will feature across a number of events in this year’s Strokestown Poetry Festival.

Pictured is Irish poet Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin, who is among the high pro le speakers set to feature at Strokestown Poetry Festival this weekend.

StrokestownInternationalPoetryFestival

Poetry Festival from

Strokestown Park House and Gardens will be the venue for the Strokestown International Poetry Festival this weekend. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Pictured is accomplished Irish playwright and poet Rita Ann Higgins, who will feature at this year’s Strokestown Poetry Festival.

Awareness campaign for dog owners important, but more needed – IFA

Acknowledging the launch of the awareness campaign for dog owners by Minister Heather Humphreys, IFA Sheep chair Adrian Gallagher said the campaign is important to remind dog owners of their responsibilities.

He said the campaign rightly identifies owners as those ultimately responsible for the actions and behaviour of their dogs, and for ensuring their dogs are under effective control at all times.

“The irresponsible behaviour of some owners has and continues to cause devastation on sheep farms. This is unacceptable and must stop”.

“IFA will continue with our policy of ‘No Dogs Allowed’ on or near lands where animals are kept as this is the only way to prevent the horrific attacks on sheep that occur across the country.

“The awareness campaign launched by the Minister is certainly helpful, but in reality, we need much more robust enforcement on the ground of the obligations of dog owners,” he said.

“There must be a significant increase in the numbers of dog wardens throughout the country and the sanctions must be increased further for those found not having their dogs under effective control,” he concluded.

Loughlynn Villionaire wins Overall Irish Angus Champion title

Lime spreading window will not be extended –Naughten

The Minister for Agriculture has informed Deputy Denis Naughten that he will not be extending the window for spreading lime under the National Liming Programme.

Deputy Naughten, who raised the issue with the minister in the Dáil, was told that the current date of June 28th will remain in place, despite the challenges facing many farmers, specifically as a result of poor soil conditions due to continuous rainfall this year.

“The minister acknowledges the challenging weather conditions and the difficulties faced by farmers in spreading lime. Yet he fails to recognise that the extension until June 28th 2024 is insufficient, given the severity of the situation. The incessant rainfall has not only made lime spreading nearly impossible but also necessitated the imminent closure of lands for winter fodder.

“I urge the minister to reconsider his stance on the lime spreading window, ensuring that our farmers are not unduly penalised for circumstances beyond their control,” concluded Denis Naughten.

There were over 700 lots presented for sale on Thursday last at Castlerea Mart, and with the recent improvement in weather and ground conditions, trade was improved for most categories of stock, with extra farmer activity evident.

32 TOP QUALITY PB REGISTERED HOLSTEIN COWS ALL FRESHLY CALVED RUNNING WITH PB ANGUS BULL. ALL COWS 1ST TO 5TH LACTATION, NO HIGH CELL COUNT OR PROBLEM COWS BEING SOLD.

There was a large entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s Special Sale of Heifers.

Heifers fetched an average of €3.10 per kilo up to €4.04. There was also a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.44 per kilo up to €3.18 per kilo.

There was a good entry of quality weanlings on offer at our sale held on Tuesday evening with a strong trade for both bulls and heifers.

Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.12 per kilo up to €4.15 per kilo, while heifer wean-

Loughlynn Villionaire won the title of Overall Irish Angus Champion at the recent April Show and Sale in Carrick-on-Shannon, selling for a price of €4,500.

lings made from an average of €2.96 per kilo up to €4.15.

There was a very good attendance of customers ringside at both sales with online buyers also active.

We had a smaller number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes. Prices for finished lambs made up to €217.

We had a small number of spring lambs and these topped out at €215. The tops for stag ewes fetched €295.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID

Loughlynn Villionaire was sired by Drumcrow Reeko and exhibited by Patrick Regan (Cloonmore, Ballyfarna, Claremorris, Co Mayo).

Tag set. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www. livestock-live.com.

Sample prices for dry cows:

LMX 875kg €2,360, LM 830kg

€2,390, LMX 740kg €2,330, LMX 710kg €1,740, CHX 670kg

€2,080.

Heifers: CHX 750kg €2,010, CHX 730kg €1,970, LMX 695kg

€2,000, CHX 615kg €1,990, CHX 650kg €1,980, CHX 580kg

€2,010.

Bull weanlings: LMX 570kg

€1,570, CHX 490kg €1,475, CHX 505kg €1,490, LMX 485kg

Pictured with Loughlynn Villionaire at the recent April Show and Sale in Carrick-on-Shannon were exhibitor Patrick Regan and judge Derek Lovell.

€1,580, LMX 410kg €1,650, LMX 365kg €1,360. Heifer weanlings: LMX 490kg €1,430, LM 440kg €1,380, LMX 435kg €1,400, CHX 390kg €1,280, LMX 365kg €1,310.

Finished lambs: 62.3kgs €217, 59.4kgs €217, 58kgs €200, 56.6kgs €195.

Store lambs: 42.2kgs €130, 40kgs €125, 39.3kgs €111, 35kgs €126.

Cast ewes made from €60 to €295 per lot, ewes with lambs made from €200 to €384 per lot and spring lambs made from €167 to €215 per lot.

The heifer ring had improved quality on offer, with quality stores making over €4.00 a kilo and heavier lots topped out at €2260. The weanling rings reported an excellent clearance with the bulls peaking at €4.61 a kilo, while the weanling heifers topped out at €4.39 a kilo. Dry cows made up to €2190 while breeding stock made up to €2010, and the calf ring reported a good clearance with demand remaining strong.

Heifers, sample prices: Lm 415kgs €1680, Ch 385kgs €1410, AA 385kgs €1340, Lm 485kgs €1800, Ch 460kgs €1600, Her 805kgs €2260, Lm 605kgs €1980, Ch 640kgs €1950, and BBX 585kgs €1930. Dry cows, sample prices: Lm 770kgs €2190, Lm 630kgs €1800, Ch 640kgs €1770, Lm 630kgs €1770, Sim 720kgs €1750, Sh 730kgs €1750, Fr 450kgs €750, and Ptx 475kgs €1260.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1320 to €2010, springers made from €1480 to €1670, and dairy cows made up to €1000. A good clearance took place in the calf section where dairy calves made up to €80 with Hex and AAX making up to €300 and continental types making up to €370.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Ch 293kgs €1350, Ch 295kgs €1250, Lm 285kgs €1150, Lm 285kgs €1090, Ch 325kgs €1500, AA 450kgs €1500, Ch 370kgs €1400, BB 338kgs €1400, AA 375kgs €1330, Ch 320kgs €1150, and Lm 335kgs €1280.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Lm 285kgs €1090, Ch 260kgs €1040, Ch 285kgs €1020, Ch 225kgs €920, AA 290kgs €860, Lm 365kgs €1510, BBx 330kgs €1450, Lm 330kgs €1190, and Lm 308kgs €1150.

Bullocks

There were 150 bullocks on offer at the bullock sale at Castlerea Mart on Monday, April 22nd, with excellent demand and prices on offer, increased Northern activity, and improvement in weather conditions.

Sample prices: Lm 490kgs €1770, AA 480kgs €1650, Ch 470kgs €1580, Lm 530kgs €1810, AA 545kgs €1740, Ch 515kgs €1730, Ch 565kgs €2000, Lm 570kgs €1980, Ch 615kgs €2220, Lm 695kgs €2060, and Lm 655kgs €1980.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart with the weekly bullock sale on Mondays, and also on Thursdays when there’s a sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. Included this week is a reduction sale of 30 milking dairy cows. All sale commence at 11 am.

Each

11 a.m.

Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. Gates close at 10 a.m.

Saturday, 4th May at 12 Noon

Organic Cattle Sale

Bookings now being accepted

Date for Your Diary

Saturday, 1st June at 11a.m.

Machinery Auction

€1m in Town & Village funding for three local towns

One million euro in funding for three projects in County Roscommon has been announced as part of the Town & Village Renewal Programme.

Monksland, Ballaghaderreen and Castleplunkett have been awarded the funding as Minister Heather Humphreys announced €20 million for 82 projects across the country through the Department of Community & Rural Development.

Ballaghaderreen has been granted almost €500,000 for the development of the Plots Town Park which will be a fully accessible central space in the town with smooth access paths so people of all abilities will benefit from a green space as well as a children’s play area with skate park and outdoor equipment

Monksland will receive €250,000 for the Monksland Centre Park which will be a hub of community activity and regeneration and will include an outdoor performance area, mini skate park, walkways and picnic areas.

Castleplunkett will receive €250,000 for the regeneration of a central area in the village into a welcoming public outdoor space with a nature-based play area and a social meeting point.

Welcoming the announcement, Senator Aisling Dolan said:

“The Town & Village Renewal Programme is a game-changer in terms of urban development of towns in County Roscommon.

“Ballaghaderreen has won close to half a million for the Plots Town Park. This project has been

developed by Ballaghaderreen Town Team with feedback from the local community working with Roscommon County Council.

“It is fantastic to see €250,000 for Monksland to further develop Monksland Centre Park. Well done also to the community and development association in Castleplunkett who have been successful in securing funding of €250,000 for an outdoor space to enhance the village and to make it a focal point for visitors and local families”.

Cllr John Naughten welcomed the funding for Monksland, saying: “I welcome the additional €250,000 funding that has been allocated for the development of a community park in Monksland.

This brings the total funding allocated to €500,000 for the

completion of phases one and two of the park.

“I would like to acknowledge the work of Roscommon County Council, Monksland Town Team and Cathaoirleach Cllr John Keogh in progressing this project to date”.

Also commenting on the funding announcement was Independent TD Denis Naughten who said “these are all vital recreational facilities that will be developed in the heart of rural towns and villages and which will help to make our areas more attractive places to work and live”.

Minister Heather Humphreys said: “This is Our Rural Future in action, delivering at local level and making a real difference in our rural towns and villages”.

Physical activity funding for older people

25 Roscommon groups have received €6,530 to fund physical activity for older people as part of Age & Opportunity’s Active National Grant scheme, a combined initiative with Sport Ireland with funding provided by the Government of Ireland. This year, the scheme is providing over €300,000 nationally to support sport and physical activities run by 1,167 groups and organisations. By financially supporting organisations to buy equipment and host activities specifically designed for older people, the grant helps older people reap the health benefits of being active. Every year approximately 32,000 older people take part in

physical activity funded by the Grant Scheme.

The successful Roscommon groups are Ballaghaderreen ARA, Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed, Ballaghaderreen Women’s Shed, Ballinagare Health and Leisure Centre, Ballinaheglish Community Centre, Ballinlough Granlahan Active Retirement Association, Boyle & District ICA Guild, Breedogue ARA, Cill Tullagh ICA, Cortober Residents Association, County Roscommon Disability Support Group CLG, Dysart Badminton Club, Elphin Day Centre, Family Carers Ireland Roscommon, Frenchpark ICA, Lanesborough ICA, Let’s Go Club ARA, Lisacul Reminiscence,

Mo Chairde/Roscommon Integrated Development Co, Monksland Active Age, Moore Active Retirement Group, Rooskey Active Retirement, Roscommon Sports Partnership, Roscommon Town

ICA Guild, and Windmill Wheelers Cycling Club. For more information, visit ageandopportunity.ie.

Minister Heather Humphreys pictured during her visit to the Monksland Way Walk with members of the Monksland Town Team and local politicians back in 2022.

Pictured are Karen Horgan (Age & Opportunity CEO), Sue Guildea (Active Programme Manager, Age & Opportunity), and Dr Una May (Sport Ireland CEO).

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

Positive response to launch of new Poetry Laneway

A new Poetry Laneway was launched last week, as part of the larger public art programme titled ‘Living Laneways’, an innovative laneway trail where artists can respond creatively to public laneways in Roscommon Town and to its history, story and community.

Supported by Roscommon County Council, the Poetry Laneway features the work of three contemporary poets, Jane Clarke, Louise G. Cole and Dani Gill.

Musician and composer Phil Robson has collaborated with

the writers, to present a custom sound piece for each of the poems which can be scanned using a QR code affixed to the particular poem on display.

The poetry is presented in lightboxes in Chapel Lane, an important historic laneway in Roscommon town with a special event to mark National Poetry Day last Thursday, April 25th.

The aim of this, and other projects in the town centre, is to create an area that functions as a viable, vibrant and attractive location, as well as a service, social, cultural and recreational

hub for the community. It is expected further development will boost the local economy drawing increased footfall to the town centre, through improving access and making the town more connected.

The laneway enhancements form the final elements of Roscommon Town Main Street and Market Square Public Realm Project, and are funded through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage as part of Project Ireland 2040 to include match funding from Roscommon County Council.

Lough Ree Environmental Summer School is this weekend

The annual Lough Ree Environmental Summer School and Boat Gathering is taking place this May Bank Holiday Weekend (May 4th, 5th, and 6th) in Ballyleague/Lanesborough.

The weekend will see boaters arriving at the Waterways Ireland Marina for the second year in a row, heralding the start of the boating season.

The weekend will see doctor and historian Dr Harmon Murtagh give a free lecture on the ‘Quakers and Inchclearun’, made possible through the Waterways Ireland Heritage and Biodiversity Grant scheme, which will be followed by a boat trip around Inchclearun.

Another favourite set to feature is Éanna Ní Lamhna, who will be hosting two ‘Talks and Walks’ through the Com-

mons North Woodland, made possible through the Waterways Ireland Heritage and Biodiversity Grant scheme, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and Roscommon Tourism.

The weekend will also include a ‘Tender Run’ though Richmond Harbour, up the Camlin River, returning via Tarmonbarry to the marina, as well as a historical picture-board exhibition of canal barges and waterways scenes. This exhibit will be on display at the Access For All Centre over the whole weekend, with local arts group ‘Brush Strokes’ exhibiting and selling their original artworks on both the Sunday and Monday.

The weekend will also see the staging of a Boat Jumble Sale, a ‘Cars and Coffee’ event, and a family fun day on Sunday.

Caring For Creativity exhibition at Arts Centre

A new ‘Caring For Creativity’ exhibition – currently open at Roscommon Arts Centre – and curated by Andy Parsons, brings together works by artists who have been Artists in Residence in Care settings in Roscommon over the past year.

The artists have been facilitating creative sessions in Sacred Heart Hospital and Care Home (Roscommon), Plunkett Community Nursing Unit in Boyle, and Aras Mathair Pol Community Nursing Unit, Castlerea.

The exhibition explores what is given by the artists –and what they receive in return. This idea of reciprocity, an exchange of inspiration and ideas, is the theme that connects the varied work in the exhibition.

The artists in this exhibition – Marian Balfe, Emma Brennan, Catherine Donnelly, Sarah Ellen Lundy, Veronica O’Connor and Andy Parsons – share an openness

to the profound experience of working in care settings. They have shared their creativity with many people and these interactions have informed their creative process, which is thoughtful, experimental, and at times playful.

The exhibition is open until June 30th. The programme from

Pictured is Éanna Ní Lamhna, who will be giving two ‘Talks and Walks’ as part of the slate of events organised to take place this May Bank Holiday Weekend as part of the annual Lough Ree Environmental Summer School and Boat Gathering.

(Above) Pictured at the launch of the new Poetry Laneway, located down Chapel Lane in Roscommon town, were (l-r) Rhona McGrath, Arts Officer, Roscommon County Council; Louise G. Cole, poet; Phil Robson, composer; Jane Clarke, poet; Dani Gill, poet; Cllr Kathleen Shanagher and Mary Smith, Public Art and Engagement Coordinator, Roscommon County Council.

(Right) Poet Jane Clarke pictured with her poem on the new Poetry Laneway located down Chapel Lane in Roscommon town. Pics: Brian Farrell

Pictured on the new Poetry Laneway , located down Chapel Lane in Roscommon town, were (l-r) Jane Clarke, poet; Phil Robson, composer; Louise G. Cole, poet and Dani Gill, poet. Pic: Brian Farrell

GOING OUT

Donnacha Mulholland pictured with Rachel Harte, Annette Creighton and May Creighton during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Mike and Sarah Conneally pictured with their children Daire (back), Liam and Eabha (front) during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Donna McDonagh pictured with her children Maisie and Rían McLoughlin during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

(Right) Members of Music Generation Roscommon pictured performing at the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Caoilfhionn Harkin pictured with her young daughter Annie O’Connor during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Shane Colleran pictured with his son Noah during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Offer of the week at Remax Team Earley – cottage residence featured on RTÉ’s ‘Cheap Irish Homes’

This week, Remax Team Earley is delighted to present for sale this charming three-bedroomed, cottage-style home, located in the tranquil Kilteevan area (F42 WN36).

Nestled in the beautiful countryside, this property offers a perfect blend of peaceful living and convenient access to nearby amenities. With this property situated just a 5-minute drive from Roscommon town, the purchaser will have easy access to all the shops, services, and recreational facilities the county town has to offer.

Upon entering this delightful home, you are greeted by a welcoming entrance hallway that sets the tone for the cottage-style atmosphere. The property fea-

tures three generous-sized bedrooms, providing ample space for your family or guests.

The kitchenette offers a cosy space to prepare meals, and the living room provides a comfortable area for relaxation and entertaining. Additionally, a well-appointed family bathroom completes the main living areas.

The BER rating for this property is G, and the price guide is €95,000.

This property offers a fantastic opportunity to put your personal touch on the interior design. With some updated décor and modernisation, you can transform this cottage-style home into a contemporary retreat while preserving its original charm and character.

One of the stand-out features of this property is its expansive outdoor space. The home is situated on a large site, approximately 0.82 of an acre, allowing for plenty of room to roam and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The spacious courtyard boasts two large stone outbuildings, which can serve a variety of purposes, providing addition-

al storage, a workshop, or even potential for conversion into additional living space.

Kilteevan offers a tranquil and picturesque setting, perfect for those seeking a peaceful country lifestyle. Despite its rural charm, the property is conveniently located just a short 5-minute drive away from Roscommon town. Roscommon town

offers a wealth of amenities, including supermarkets, schools, restaurants, and leisure facilities, ensuring that you have everything you need within easy reach.

Don’t miss the opportunity to own this charming threebedroomed, cottage-style home in Kilteevan. Contact Remax Team Earley today to arrange a

viewing and make this property your own slice of countryside paradise!

For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt Roscommon, on 090 6626579, email teamearley@ remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact the auctioneer Keith directly on 086 0848590.

Roscommon revealed as one of top five counties for remote working

Roscommon is among the top five counties in Ireland in which to work from home, according to a recent study by Virgin Media.

Over the last four years, the number of people working from home in Ireland has increased from 19.89% of the workforce to 36.2%, according to the CSO. With that in mind, Virgin Media commissioned research to rank the ‘best’ counties in Ireland for working from home.

The analysis factored in essential

elements such as rent prices, broadband speed, crime rates, air quality, sunlight hours, restaurant availability, and the number of primary schools. These factors play a crucial role in determining the ideal location for remote work living. Each data point in the index was individually scored, and these scores were then used to calculate the overall index ranking.

Out of the 26 counties, Roscommon was crowned the fourth best in the country for remote working. The others in the top

five (in order) are Kerry, Clare, Laois, and Donegal.

Coming first was Kerry, which beyond its breathtaking beauty, proves to be an ideal destination for remote workers because of other pull factors. With rent prices averaging around €1,035 per month, significantly lower than Dublin’s average of €2,102 per month, Kerry offers an attractive living option. Moreover, the county ensures seamless remote work experiences with its fast broadband speed,

has been shortlisted for a Rural Social Impact Award at the upcoming the RDS Sustainability Awards.

Roscommon Women’s Network shortlisted for RDS Sustainability Awards

CycleUp, an initiative from Roscommon Women’s Network, has been shortlisted for a Rural Social Impact Award at the RDS Sustainability Awards, taking place this week as part of the ‘Finding Common Ground’ festival.

On Thursday, May 2nd, and Friday, May 3rd, the RDS in Dublin will host ‘Finding Common Ground’, a festival on biodiversity and sustainability. As part of the two-day event, the RDS Sustainability Awards –which celebrate the work of individuals, farm families and organisations who are enhancing the economic, environmental and social development of Irish agriculture and rural communities – will also take place. In 2018, a diverse group from the

Roscommon Women’s Network (RWN) charity shop decided to do something about the amount of wasted clothes that could not be sold. RWN arranged training for upcycling of textiles, and thanks to the motivation and commitment from the participants, CycleUp is now a unique circular economy social enterprise that benefits the environment and the rural economy. CycleUp textiles combines creativity with a positive social and environmental impact. They produce a wide range of 100% handmade and designed luxury tote bags and sustainable gifts using only materials that can no longer be used for their primary purpose and would otherwise end up in landfill.

The awards ceremony takes place as part of the ‘Finding Common Ground’ Festival on Friday, May 3rd. The inaugural two-day event is being delivered as one of the RDS Foundation social impact programmes.

Niamh De Loughry (Deputy Chief Executive, Foundation at RDS) said, “With social sustainability at its core, the RDS long-term vision for Ireland sees five key areas underpinning the island’s culture and economy – Arts, Agriculture, Enterprise and Equestrian, Science and Technology.

“Our objective is to harness the energy and ideas of people to identify needs, work to foster momentum and create scale to propel our culture and economy to new heights”.

averaging at 83.35 Mbps.

Clare ranks second. The average monthly rent is around €1,025, and with highspeed broadband reaching 101.65 Mbps, it’s an excellent choice for remote work.

The Banner stands out as a safe county, boasting a low crime index of 44.8.

Despite its small size and population of only 91,657, Laois is an excellent option for remote work due to several factors.

Rent is affordable (around €1,136 per month), and the internet is super-fast,

averaging 249.79 Mbps, one of the best in the country.

Roscommon and Donegal stand out as hidden gems, claiming the fourth and fifth positions respectively, each with distinct advantages for remote professionals. Roscommon’s appeal lies in its blend of affordability and quality of life, boasting an average rent of €905 and impressive broadband speeds averaging 140.19 Mbps, earning it a commendable broadband index score of 0.561.

Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union launch Student Bursary Programme

Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union (ACCU) is proud to announce the launch of their Student Bursary programme 2024, aimed at alleviating some of the financial burden of education for deserving students. The bursary, totalling €1,500, will be awarded to assist the recipients in pursuing their academic goals with ease.

“We understand the challenges that students face when it comes to financing their education,” said

Marise O’Toole, Deputy CEO of Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union. “Our Student Bursary is designed to provide tangible support to deserving individuals, enabling them to focus on their studies without the added stress of financial worries”. The recipient of the Student Bursary will be the Athlone or Castlerea secondary school student who achieves the highest points in their Leaving Certificate exams and plans to attend

the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), Athlone Campus in 2024 to study under the Faculty of Business and Hospitality. Applications for the Student Bursary are now open, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply by the 1st of July 2024. For more information on eligibility criteria and application process, please visit accu.ie or drop into any of our offices in Irishtown, Monksland (Athlone), or Castlerea.

Robert wins holiday in Gala giveaway!

Robert Byrne from Boyle in County Roscommon has become one of the lucky winners in the Gala Retail’s Home or Away store promotion, winning a holiday voucher worth €4,000. Gala Retail launched the promotion in celebration of 25 years of serving

communities, and has been delighting its loyal customers across the country, with the chance to win one of 25 holiday vouchers.

Running throughout February and March, the promotion offered shoppers the opportunity to enter by spending

over €10 in any of the participating Gala Retail stores.

Entrants had the chance to win one of 10 family holidays abroad, valued at €4,000 each, or one of 15 holiday vouchers for unforgettable Irish staycations, each worth €2,500.

Pictured recently are members of Roscommon Women’s Network, whose initiative, CycleUp,

Pictured are Karen Guest (TUS Lecturer), Marise O’Toole (Deputy CEO), Dr Michael Tobin (TUS Interim Dean Faculty of Business and Hospitality), Claire Mulvihill (Marketing Executive, ACCU) and Dr Alison Sherida (TUS Head of Department of Business and Management). Pic: Nathan Cafolla

Roscommon man Robert Byrne from Boyle pictured receiving his prize from Aine Arnold from Harkin’s Gala, Balybofey, Co Donegal.

Classifieds

ALCOHOLICS

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 ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS:

Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21 (1st Floor).

Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm.

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Creighton

Chimney Cleaning

Fireplaces, Stoves, Ranges etc. Modern Rotary Chimney Cleaning equipment used from the bottom up. Much cleaner than brushes, CCTV check if required.

Areas covered: Castlerea, Strokestown, Elphin, Castleplunkett, Tulsk, Lanesboro, Roscommon Town, Killashee, Carrickon-Shannon, Scramogue, Rooskey, Kenagh, Tarmonbarry, Ballymahon and all surrounding areas. No climbing on roofs, tiles or slates, no mess, no fuss. Fully Registered. Call Dave on 085 8888833

CHIROPRACTOR

Stephen

CCTV Inspections

● Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

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

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

FENCING/GATES

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

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

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

• Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.

• Small stock of parts available and can be tted on sprayers

All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

Are you experiencing di culties in your life? Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having di culties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you? Online counselling available. Please call Glynis on 085 2514394 email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk web: www psychotherapy glynisdowney.com

Including: • Hedge Cutting

Hedge Planting

Grass Cutting

Spraying

Strimming

Weeding

Garden Tidy-ups

FARMING

 FOR SALE: Square and round bales of hay for sale. Phone: 087 2392729

FRIENDSHIP

 FRIENDSHIP: Lady would like to meet a man, 60 - 65 years for companionship Please reply to: P.O. Box 3106 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

DANCING

 SOCIAL DANCING: Continues every Friday night in An Bothar Rua, Elphin with live music. This Friday night with The Duets, dance 9.00pm til late.Tel. 087 9809432

GATELY GARDENING Four Roads, Co. Roscommon

Patios

General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

PERSONAL

SOULMATES - DON’T BE ALONE

Find that special person for friendship and romance with like-minded people. Safe, reliable and con dential. Telephone: 087 9216302 or 087 7720250

GRINDS/TUITION

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

Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Classifieds

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Mairead Beades, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Rahara TD, Rahara, Co. Roscommon. The development consists of permission for the refurbishment and construction of an extension to both sides of an existing derelict building and convert it into 2 semi-detached dwellings, along with 2 wastewater treatment systems, a new entrance and all associated site works.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the Planning Authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within the period of ve weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations may 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: Mairead Beades

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Calum Harris and Joanne Sullivan, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following:

1. To construct extension to existing dwelling house.

2. Permission to retain and complete new site entrance and boundary fence and carry out all ancillary site development works at Carraghs West, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon. F42 YD66. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, 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:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 085 1299470

E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Designs Consulting Engineers

The most read newspaper in County Roscommon!

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Aidan Cunni e intends to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to construct a four bay double slatted cattle shed on his lands at Cappalisheen, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Aidan Cunniffe

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Application is being made to Roscommon County Council to demolish part of existing structure and construct 1 bed apartment, attached to rear of “The Westbury” Public House at St. Patrick St., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45 DD70.

Signed: Peter Hynes. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Shay and Orla Galvin intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for alterations and extension to existing dwelling house at Cloonlaughnan, Mount Talbot, Roscommon.

The proposed alterations consist of

A. Erection of extension to rear of the existing house

B. Installation of new window openings to side elevations

C. Demolition of existing domestic store

D. All ancillary development works.

Signed: Shay and Orla Galvin

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

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, Robert Kelleher and Ellen McLaughlin intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct two storey dwelling, domestic garage, waste water treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Cherry eld or Drishagan, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

Signed:

Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974

Mobile: 086 8115449

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Edward Sharkey intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish existing derelict dwelling, construct single storey replacement dwelling, connect to existing public services, associated site development works and services at Stonepark, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974

Mobile: 086 8115449

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Vincent Healy intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to retain foundation and base and to complete erection of a Domestic Garage and all associated works, at Cloonybeirne, The Walk, Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces 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.

Signed: Vincent Healy

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, Maria Lennon and Ian Du y intend to apply for permission for development at Cornafulla North, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of a dwellinghouse, garage, waste water treatment system and associated siteworks.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Maria Lennon and Ian Duffy

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED

 TO RENT: One bed apartment to rent, Lecarrow/Knockcroghery area, short term let, suit professional couple. Phone: 087 7476701

 TO RENT: Two rooms to rent in house in Cloverhill, Wi-Fi, OFCH and solid fuel, shared accommodation. Phone: 087 6056974

PLANNINGS PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Pollanalty East, Cloonfad. Co. Roscommon

I, Mark Jennings, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to carry out the following.

1. Renovate the existing derelict dwelling house.

2. Replace the existing septic tank with a new waste water treatment system and all ancillary site works.

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

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

Signed: Sean Maloney and Associates, BUILDING & PLANNING CONSULTANT

ENGINEERING SERVICES

Unit 46, N17 Business Park Tuam, Co. Galway. Tel: 093 26977

Fax: 093 26979

Mobile: 087 279 2820 E-Mail: seanmaloneyassociates@gmail.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Gabriel O Grady, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to retain as constructed replacement dwelling house and upgrade existing septic tank with new treatment system and polishing lter along with construction of a new boundary wall and entrance and carry out all ancillary site development works at Glenballythomas, Tulsk, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45F862. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, 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:

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Further information

Name of applicant: Roscommon Golf Club c/o Rosemary O’Brien, Honorary Secretary Address: Ballymartin More, Roscommon Planning Register Ref No: PD / 23 / 214

Signi cant Further Information in relation to the application has been furnished to the Planning Authority and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the o ces of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours

An observation or submission in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority

There will be no fee payable on a further submission / observation if accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/observation.

Signed: Roscommon Golf Club c/o Rosemary O’Brien , Honorary Secretary

COUNCIL

I, Bryan O’Gara seek retention permission for the development at Cruby Hill B & B, Cruby Hill House, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, F42 FX53. The development includes change of use from a residential dwelling to an eight bedroomed guesthouse, alteration to internal layout and all associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Bryan O’Gara

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 o fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

...

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529

E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Architectural Designs – Consulting Engineers

10x6

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon

Physical Therapy Clinic

Movement Matters

20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

Physical Therapy

CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

PODIATRIST

Tullys

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays.

● HSE Trained and Approved ● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

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

SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK • 20 years experience

C902

all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –Tel: 087 2982214

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p0862553153 @gmail.com

GRINDS

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• Professional, Courteous Employees

• Trustworthy ONE CALL DOES IT ALL

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!

Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 66 33084

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

GARDENING

www.westsidegardening.ie

GARDENING: Lawns mowed and seeded, Leylandi and Laurel Hedge Cut and Shaped, Tree Felling, Fencing, Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal.

CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding repairs available C2 Registered & Insured. Free Quotations David Du y 087 9662678 Alan

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

McDONNELL

Patrick (Sonny) & Mary Coolegarry, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

I am sending a dove to Heaven with a parcel on its wings be careful when you open it, its full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses wrapped up in a million hugs to say how much I miss you and to send you all my love.

Sadly missed by their daughter Marie, her partner Mark, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews and extended family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 5th May at 10am.

HOEY

Mary Ellen

Carrenterri , Dysart, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon Who passed away peacefully on 5th May 2023.

We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain.

To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. So, Rest in Peace dear loved one, and thanks for all you’ve done. We pray that God has given you, the crown you’ve truly won.

On the First Anniversary of Mary’s passing, her family wish to thank everyone especially those who travelled long distances to attend the house, Funeral Home, Mass, Burial, sent owers, Mass Cards and o ered messages of condolence.

A sincere thanks to Mary’s wonderful carers, her fond friend Chrissy, Dr. Martin Daly G.P., the sta of Ballygar Health Centre and the Palliative Care Team in Portiuncula Hospital.

We would also wish to thank the following, both Fr. Francis Beirne and Fr. Sean Neylon for their lovely Funeral Mass and Oration. The Kenny family, Maureen, Pete, James, Martin, Yvonne and Marie at Maureen’s Foodstore, not just for their support throughout the Funeral Service but for all of their support, deliveries and chats. All the hardworking volunteers at Dysart Community Centre. Liam and Marian Gately and Maura O’Brien for the beautiful singing and music, Dooley’s Flower Shop, Michael Dempsey at Dempsey’s Funeral Directors, neighbours, relatives and friends for the wonderful support and kindness you showed her over the years and nally to the volunteer grave diggers who laid her nal resting place with dignity in Dysart Cemetery.

An Anniversary Mass for friends, family and neighbours will be held to celebrate the memory of Mary on Friday, 3rd of May at 7.30pm at her beloved home.

SMYTH

Garry Vesnoy, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. (3rd Anniversary - 3rd May 2021)

Dearly missed and always remembered by his Mother Terrie, sisters Annette, brother Dougie, niece Meghan and nephew Dillon. Forever in our hearts.

HOARE

Bernie

12 Circular Road, Roscommon Town Who passed on 6th May, 2002 (22nd Anniversary)

The beauty of a memory is that its always there, like a penny in your pocket, you can take it anywhere. And when your heart is heavy, and your eyes are filled with tears, you can focus on a memory and travel through the years. Your heart can visit happy times, when laughter filled the air, and the presence of your loved one will lessen your despair. So as you travel on in life, take comfort as you go, in a lifetime of sweet memories of one who loved you so.

Missing you always.

Forever loved and missed by your family.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 4th May at 10am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

CONNAUGHTON

Nancy

Chapelizod, Co. Dublin and formerly of Rahara. Who passed away on 14th April, 2023

Nancy’s family wish to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all those who sympathised and supported us on Nancy’s passing.

Sincere thanks to all who telephoned, sent cards, texts, left messages of condolence and called to the house.

A special thanks to our many friends, relations and neighbours who attended Nancy’s Reposal, Funeral Mass and Burial, to those who travelled far and near, your presence was very comforting.

Also to the gravediggers who prepared Nancy’s nal resting place, thank you.

Thank you the Athlone Springs Hotel for providing refreshments.

A special thank you to Fr. Finian Connaughton, Fr. Alo Connaughton, Fr. Ray Milton and Fr. Michael Donnelly who celebrated Nancy’s Funeral Masses both in Dublin and Rahara.

Thank you to the choir for the beautiful music and hymns.

We wish to say a special word of thanks to the wonderful and caring sta of Kiltipper Care Centre, Dublin for the excellent care and kindness shown to Nancy in her nal years and to us, her family at all times and especially in her nal few days.

As it would be is impossible, to thank everybody individually please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our grateful appreciation.

The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for the intentions of all.

Loved and sadly missed by your brother and sisters Gracie, Sean and Kathleen (Kelly), sister-in-law Sheila, nieces, nephews, relatives and her friend Peter, neighbours and her many friends.

Nancy’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 5th May at 10am in Mary Immaculate Church, Rahara.

GREENE

Billy Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 6th May 2019 (5th Anniversary)

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

Sadly missed by his wife Mary, daughters Anne Marie and Angela, son Liam, son in law Adrian and grandchildren Elliot, Carla and Louis.

Anniversary Mass this Saturday 4th May in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague at 7pm.

www.brianmuraystone.com

IN LOVING MEMORY OF MURRAY Bridie (née Brennan) Lisphelim, Knockcroghery. (14th Anniversary) Who passed away on May 4th, 2010

You’ll never be forgotten, that simply cannot be. As long as I am living, I’ll carry you with me. Safely tucked within my heart, your light will always shine, a glowing ember never stilled throughout the end of time. No matter what the future brings, or what may lie ahead, I know that you will walk with me, along the path I thread. So rest my angel, be at peace and let your soul fly free. When it comes to my time, I will join you there for eternity.

Our lady of Lourders, pray for her.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving daughter Geraldine.

Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, May 19th at 11.30am.

THANKSGIVINGS

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

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

(8th Anniversary) (7th Anniversary)

Will those who think of Garry today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

JOYCE

Tom

Late of Ballymoe, Co. Galway

In loving memory of our father Tom Joyce, who passed away on 1st May 2000 R.I.P. (24th Anniversary)

Dad, God saw you getting tired, a cure was not to be, He put His arm around you and whispered “Come to Me”.

With tearful eyes we let you go and watched you fade away. Although our hearts were broken we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest, God knows why He took you, He only takes the best.

Sadly missed by his sons Mickie, Sean, Stephen and Cyril and by his daughters Chrissie, Eileen, Carmel and Sheila, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, exrtended family and friends.

Also remembering our dear brother Paddy, who passed away on 4th July, 2012, R.I.P. Paddy

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and always dear.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Also remembering our dear brother Tommy, who passed away on 13th July, 2021, R.I.P.

Tommy

Sadly missed along lifes way, quietly remembered every day. No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts, you’re always there.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Also remembering our dear sister Maureen, who passed on 25th February 2023, R.I.P. Maureen

Deep are the memories, precious they stay, no passing of time, can take them away.

Sadly missed and always remembered by their brothers and sisters.

FLYNN

Leo Kilmore, Ballygar, Co. Galway (14th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 30th April 2010

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory that no one can steal.

Sadly missed and always loved by his wife Mary and family.

Anniversary Mass was o ered on Saturday, 27th April in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

HYNES

Thomas (Tommy)

Old Circular Road, Roscommon Who passed away on 7th May 2019 (5th Anniversary)

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and so very dear.

So fondly missed by your loving wife Bridie, children Ann, Declan, Audrey, Emer, Cathriona, Sinéad, Martine, Denis, grandchildren, great grandchild, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 4th May at 10am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

SMYTH

Garry Vesnoy, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. (3rd Anniversary - 3rd May 2021)

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.

Loved and sadly missed by your sister Lisa, Sandra and your brother Dougie.

O’ROURKE

Charlie

Tulsk

Remembering Charlie with love who was born to everlasting life on on 7th May 2006. (18th Anniversary)

Looking back with memories, upon the path you trod. We bless the days we had with you and will leave the rest to God. A silent thought, a quiet prayer for a special person in God’s care.

Fondly remembered by Fidelma, Tighearnan, Jessica and Naoise xxxx Mass o ered.

FEELY

Alan Cloonerk, Derrane, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Alan who died on 4th May, 1994 (30th Anniversary)

R.I.P.

We will always remember.

Loved and sadly missed, Nora and family

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 4th May at 7pm in Derrane Church, Roscommon.

CLABBY

Bridie

Circular Road, Roscommon (19th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Bridie who died on 4th May 2005

Hold her, O Jesus in Thine arms and let her henceforth be a messenger of love between our human hearts and Thee.

Fondly remembered by her family.

GEOGHEGAN

Helen Lismehy, Strokestown Who died on May 6th 2014 (10th Anniversary)

Every day in some small way memories of you come our way. Lovingly remembered by her sisters, brothers and their families.

David and

In loving memory of our dear Mum and Dad, Breda and David, David who passed away on the 10th April 1988 and Breda who passed away on 19th May 1996

Lord grant them eternal rest.

Loved and sadly missed by your family.

HARRISON

Christina (Chrissie)

Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Roscommon Who passed away on 15th of May, 2023 (1st Anniversary)

On the First Anniversary of Christina’s death, her family would like to thank all those who sympathised with us at the time of our Mother’s passing and who attended the Funeral Home, the Funeral Mass and the Burial. To all who sent Mass Cards and letters of sympathy. Sincere thanks to our extended family, our relatives and all those who travelled long distances to the Funeral. Special thanks to Dr. David Harrison and a sincere thanks to Dr. Valerie Morris and Dr. Padraic Brennan who looked after our Mother so well over many years. To the sta at Roscommon Hospital for the care given to our Mother in her nal days.

A special thanks to our sister Helen and her husband Pat who cared for our Mother in their own home in her later years.

A sincere thanks to Fr. Sean Beirne for supporting us on all the Funeral Ceremonies and the choir for their lovely music in the Church. To Shirley Spellman for her beautiful owers and to the Altar Committee for the beauitful oral arrangements in the Church.

A special word of thanks to Pat Smyth Funeral Director for his professionalism with the Funeral arrangements. To Jimmy Garvey and his wife Lucy for trhe beautiful way they prepared our Mother’s nal resting place, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

Just a prayer from the family who loved you just a memory fond and true. In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you.

First Anniversary Mass for Christina will be held in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 5th of May at 10am.

BARRY

Breda Abbeytown, Roscommon

(36th Anniversary) (28th Anniversary)

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Coman’s Swimming Club impress at Connacht Championships

The Coman’s Swimming Club senior swimmers had an impressive weekend competing at the Connacht Age Group and Senior Long Course Championships held at UL Limerick.

On day one of the event all Coman’s swimmers secured spots in the finals.

Special congratulations to Ava Kiernan who clinched first place in the U-12s 200m backstroke and to Michael Tiernan, who achieved third place in the U-15s 200m breaststroke, both setting fantastic personal bests.

Notable performances were also seen from Sarah Keane and Aoife and Michael Lavin in both heats and finals.

On day two, the success continued with more medals, personal bests, and qualifying times.

Aine Doherty and Ciara Lally joined the impressive line-up of swimmers, with Michael Tiernan delivering a stand-out performance in the 100m breaststroke final, securing a personal best.

Ciara Lally earned a bronze in the U-14 200m freestyle, while Ava Kiernan dominated with gold medals in both the U-12 100m backstroke and 100m butterfly.

Sarah Lavin and Aoife and Michael Lavin also demonstrated their resilience, stepping up as reserves for their respective finals.

The club would like to offer a huge thank you to the Connacht officials for their support throughout the weekend, and a special acknowledgment to coach Deirdre Lavin for her unwavering dedication to the swimmers. Club fundraising: Mark your calendars for an exciting event happening this Friday, May 3rd, a table quiz at 8.30 pm at The Coachman’s Inn in Roscommon town. There will be a raffle on the night, for fantastic prizes. All are welcome. Your support means everything to the club so gather your team, brush up on your trivia, and kick off the

bank holiday weekend at The Coachman’s Inn.

Michael Tiernan pictured at the recent Connacht Age Group and Senior Long Course Championships held at UL Limerick.

Ciara Lally and Ava Kieran pictured at the recent Connacht Age Group and Senior Long Course Championships held at UL Limerick.

Sports PEOPLE

Roscommon handed tough draw in All-Ireland group stages

Davy Burke’s Roscommon team find themselves in a difficult group after the draw for the All-Ireland SFC group stages was made on Tuesday.

They have been drawn into Group Two alongside the Leinster winners (either Dublin or Louth), the Connacht runnersup (either Galway or Mayo) and Cavan.

Given their current form, it is hard to see Dublin losing to Louth in the Leinster final and, regardless of who wins Connacht, Galway or Mayo will provide formidable opposition as the second seed in the group.

Roscommon will face the Leinster champions away in their opening game, meaning that a trip to Croke Park could be on the cards if Dublin beat Louth. That game is scheduled to be played on the weekend of the 25th/26th of May.

Friday, May 3rd

Connacht MFC

At Dr Hyde Park:

Roscommon’s second match will be played at home in Dr Hyde Park against the Connacht runner-up – either Galway or Mayo – on the weekend of 1st/2nd of June and finally, Davy Burke’s men will face Cavan in a neutral venue on the weekend of the 15th/16th of June.

Full fixture details will be confirmed by the C.C.C.C. once the provincial finals have taken place. Here is a full list of the four groups in this year’s Sam Maguire Cup chase:

Hardiman the hero for hurlers

Nicky Rackard Cup

Roscommon 0-21

Armagh 0-20

Roscommon have put themselves in a super position in the Nicky Rackard Cup following a dramatic one-point win against Armagh at the Athletic Grounds last Sunday.

her favour.

This is the third European and fourth continental gold medal for the Paris-bound fighter which is a phenomenal achievement and perfect preparation for the Olympics later this year.

A point from midfielder James Hardiman in the 3rd minute of injurytime was the decisive score in a thrilling game in which fortunes swung both ways.

Roscommon were the better team in the early stages and they led by 0-7 to 0-3 after just 16 minutes, but soon after the home side hit a purple patch,

scoring five points without reply.

Conor Cosgrove, Paddy Fallon and Cian Murray were outstanding for Roscommon and they found themselves ahead again at the break, 0-14 to 0-10.

Armagh were very reliant on the freetaking of Alex O’Boyle who ended up scoring 0-13 (12 from placed balls).

The home side were the better team in the third quarter and with 15 minutes to go they led by two points, 0-18 to 0-16, but Cosgrove came storming into the game and scored four quality points late on.

As the game neared a close it looked like both sides had settled for a draw until James Hardiman stepped up to fire over a super point from the right

wing to win it for Kevin Sammon’s men.

Roscommon now have three wins out of three and are in a very good position ahead of home games against Donegal and Mayo at Dr Hyde Park. Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Mark Ward, James Dillon, Darragh Mullen; James Donnelly, Conor Cosgrave (0-4, 2 frees), Jack Dowling; Darragh Finn, James Hardiman (0-2); Cian Murray (0-6), Conor Mulry (0-3),

Brian Lawlor (0-1); Brendan Mulry (0-1), Jason Martin (0-1), Paddy Fallon (0-3, 2 frees). Subs: Sean Canning for B Mulry (42), Liam Og Coyle for Dowling (54), Robbie Fallon for Lawlor (54), Adam Donnelly for P Fallon (66).

Aoife O’Rourke won her third successive European gold medal last Saturday in Belgrade.

Roscommon manager Davy Burke (right) and members of his management team, pictured here during the Allianz National Football League earlier this year, will be hoping that they can advance from their tough group. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Rossies rule at Punchestown as Fastorslow triumphs

On Tuesday racing opened at Punchestown with a Hunter Chase won by Knockiel Synge, a recent winner at Castletowngeoghan point to point, at 20/1 trained by Peter John Floon and ridden by Ms Georgie Benson.

Willie Mullins and Mark Walsh combined with the favourite Mystical Power, son of Annie Power, to win the Grade 2 Champion Novice Hurdle with Jack Kennedy 2nd on Firefox – one for the punters.

Mullins completed a double with recent Ludlow winner Daddy Long Legs, 16/5 favourite. The Listed Handicap Hurdle which was ridden by Townend who cut Kennedy’s lead in the Championship to 6. The Goffs Bumper was won by the Elliott-trained Sermandzarak with Harry Swan doing the steering at 10/1.

In the first Grade 1, The Champion Chase, Cheltenham’s Queen Mother winner, Captain Guinness was beaten a neck, when caught on the line by Banbridge, at 6/1, trained by Joseph O’Brien and ridden by JJ Slevin. Punters were on the mark again with Spillane’s Tower beating Monty’s Star by ¾l giving Mark Walsh and JP McManus a double on day 1. The winner and runner-up were joint favourites at 5/2. The bumper was won by

Short putts Horses for Courses

BALLAGHADERREEN

Introductory lessons for beginner ladies with PGA Golf Professional Aidan Moran run concurrently on Monday evenings from 6-8 pm. The club are delighted to welcome 26 beginners on board and any lady still wishing to try their hand at the game is welcome at any stage to the club.

On Sunday, April 28th, Ballaghaderreen ladies competed in the Strokestown HiLo competition. Thank you to Strokestown Ladies Club for hosting the competition, for their hospitality and prizes awarded. The next major event for the club will be the Aughalustia Masters competition which will be run over the weekend of 3rd, 4th and 5th of May.

BOYLE

Well done to Shane O’Dowd who was winner of this year’s voucher competition with 65 pts. Terry Canning (66 pts) was a very close runner-up, followed by the in-form Lee McKillen who came third with 67 pts.

Charlie O’Donnell was the winner of last week’s men’s

the recent Fairyhouse runner-up Sixandahalf at 14/1 who easily beat Colcannon by 11l.

Wednesday opened with a winner for champion-elect conditional jockey Danny Gilligan aboard Joseph O’Brien’s Harsh at 17/2 who beat West Away by 2¾l. The second was won by Gavin Cromwell’s Backtonormal with Sean Flanagan in the plate at 7/1. The 3rd, the Louis Fitzgerald Hotels Hurdle looked like going to Mullins and Townend with the even money favourite Mistergif, but he was worn down by Henry de Bromhead’s Gorgeous Tom ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe.

The first Grade 1 on the card the Novice Hurdle saw Dancing City, 7/4 favourite, just hold on from stablemate High Class Hero to give Mullins and Townend a win, Townend now 5 behind.

The Grade 1 Champion Bumper was won by Paul Townend’s sister Jodie on Redemption Day, trained by WP Mullins who went away from Elliott’s The Yellow Clay and Barry Connell’s William Munny to win easily by 3¾l and 7l.

In the final Grade 1 race of the day, The Gold Cup, Fastorslow carried the Rossie colours to victory in retaining his crown over the odds on favourite Galopin Des Champs. Sean and

Bernadine Mulryan’s 8-Y-O under JJ Slevin was winning at Punchestown for the 3rd time at 7/2. The winning distances were 1¼l and 2¼l. Kennedy led by five to four at the end of the day.

Punchestown Preview

Today’s Grade 1 races are the Novice Chase and Stayers Hurdle with a Grade B Handicap Chase and Hurdle, and the longest race in Ireland, The La Touche Chase over 4m 2f.

In the Novice Chase there are four runners with John Patrick Ryan taking on the three Willie Mullins runners with Mount Frisco. Gaelic Warrior is long odds-on and should beat stablemates Il Etait Temps and Hercule Du Sueil.

In the Stayers Hurdle Elliott’s Teahupoo look likely to improve on his 4th place in last season race and is looking for a hat-trick to add to wins in the Cheltenham Stayers and the Hatton Grace at Fairyhouse. He will be given most to do by Joseph O’Brien’s Home By The Lee, 4l behind him at Cheltenham and Paul Gilligan’s Buddy One if he has recovered from his 2nd to Strong Leader at Aintree. Monkfish finished a disappointing 4th

by

in that race and could be e/w value at 20/1.

Tomorrow (Friday) there are two grade 1 races the Champion Hurdle with five runners and with no Constitution Hill Stateman is odds-on to repeat his win of last year.

The Champion Novices Hurdle has 12 declared and the Mullins-trained Ballyburn looks set to repeat his Cheltenham win and make it 6 wins out of 7 races. His main danger is Elliott’s Staffordshire Knott 2nd to Brighterdaysahead in Prestbury Park, who has been backed to win at fancy prices. Two interesting runners are, in the bumper is Sean Mulryan’s Dontstopthemusic for whom Derek O’Connor has been booked, and in the opener a small e/w or a place bet on War Correspondent who will be looking to add to his Dundalk win in February could pay.

Saturday sees the close of the festival with 2 more Grade 1 races, the Mares Champion Hurdle with 9 runners and the Champion 4-Y-O Hurdle sponsored by Sean Mulryan through Ballymore has 10 runners. Willie Mullins’ Lossiemouth is odds-on to win the Mares and the 4-Y-O looks an open race with the most appealing being Gavin Cromwell’s Bottler’ Secret.

This weekend’s action

Irish racing this week continues at Punchestown today (Thursday) at 3.40 pm with day 3 of the festival featuring two Grade 1 races, the Champion Stayers Hurdle and the Novice Chase.

Tomorrow at 3.40 pm sees two more Grade 1 races, the Champion Hurdle and the Champion Novice Hurdle and the festival closes on Saturday starting at 2.30 with the EBF Mares Champion Hurdle and the Champion Four Year Hurdle.

Racing returns to the west on Sunday with flat racing at The Cleveragh, in Sligo, away at 1.40 pm. Bank Holiday sees racing on the level at the Curragh at 1.15 pm and over

jumps at Down Royal away at 1.35 pm.

Competition Corner

This week you have a second chance to win tickets for Roscommon on the 13th May. To be in with a chance of winning please tell us what horse won the Aintree Grand National in 2024? Answers as usual please on a postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street Roscommon or by email to tomred17@gmail.com by 5 pm on Wednesday, 8th of May and don’t forget to include your name, address and a contact phone number with all competition entries. Tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Thursday competition with a score of 21 pts.

There will be a club fundraiser 3-ball Rumble over the May Bank Holiday weekend. Details to be released during the week. The Committee Cup will be played for on the subsequent weekend.

Beginner ladies and children’s lessons are well underway and we are receiving lots of positive feedback.

Members are advised that a ladies beginner group will be on the course every Wednesday for the next seven weeks between 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm, so please make the necessary allowances.

The children’s golf programme will be on every Saturday between 10.30 am and 11.30 am.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

The presentation of prizes for Flynn’s Spring League took place in Flynn’s Bar last Thursday night. Well done to all the winners.

The Carrick-on-Shannon Club Classic 2024 takes place over the Bank Holiday weekend, May 31st to June 3rd. It is an important fundraiser to

help us maintain and invest in the club. Updates will be posted over the coming weeks.

This year Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club will see the inaugural hosting of the OBN Open Series.

We are elevating five independent weekly competitions as qualifying events for the OBN Grand Final on Saturday, September 7th.

We are also making all five Open competitions available for non-Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club members. Entry fees:

member €10; non-member: €35 (per competition).

There will be registration and information evenings for parents of the junior golfers on the 27th and 30th of May. Junior lessons start on Monday, 10th of June.

The following are the results of last weekend’s 18-hole two-person Scramble – 1st: Noel McKenna and Lee McKillen, 61 pts; 2nd: Michael Bruen and Steven Daly, 64 pts, and 3rd: Leo Mulvey and Eamon Masterson, 65 pts. Well done to all involved.

CASTLEREA

Castlerea Golf Club wishes to thank all who turned out to the first Scramble of the year and all who attended the presentations last Friday night.

Paul Connaughton came first in the McSharry Pharmacy men’s competition while Maura Kelly won the ladies. Giles McDonagh was winner of the men’s competition with Juliet Kenny winning the ladies.

In the Norio’s-sponsored competition, Eugene Flanagan won the men’s and Ruth Sullivan won the ladies. Anthony Maloney and Breege Cullen were respective winners in the men’s and ladies categories of the Paul Lafferty-sponsored competition, and in the Corrib Oil-sponsored competition Jimmy Joyce came first in the men’s while Maureen Claffey won the ladies.

Congratulations to the team of Bernie O’Farrell, Margaret Walters and Anthony Kelly on winning this year’s Michael Creighton-sponsored Scramble. Well done to all winners of the sponsored competitions and scramble winners and a big thanks to the sponsors for their continuous support.

ROSCOMMON

The monthly presentation was held at the club on Saturday, April 27th. In the women’s section the Spring League winners were: Mary O’Connor, Yvonne Waldron, Joan Hannon, Noreen O’Grady, Una Gleeson, Bernie Browne, Detta Cox and Martina Brennan.

The Winter League was won by Kay Ruane, Joan Moran and Veronica Clarke.

The RosMed Pharmacysponsored ladies 18-hole club competitions winner was Marie McManus and the 9-hole winner was Theresa Ray. The men’s 18-hole competition, sponsored by Hannon’s Hotel, was won by Rikki O’Gara.

The Senior and Junior Scratch Cups will be held on Sunday, May 19th. The draw sheets for the Smithwick’s Cup and Jack Halliday Cup are on the noticeboard in the men’s locker room. Draw for both competitions will take place in the clubhouse on Monday, May 6th. The annual club classic will take place on the 22nd and 23rd of June. A time sheet will shortly be available

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

(News from local golf clubs)

Tom Red

Some of the ladies who took part in the introductory lessons for beginner ladies at Ballaghaderreen Golf Club recently.

In the Gold Cup, Fastorslow carried the Rossie colours to victory on Wednesday.

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs U-15 Boys win Plate final

On Saturday evening Creggs Boys U-15s team travelled to Buccaneers to take on a mixture of Galwegians/Galway Bay in the U-15 Connacht plate final. It was a game that Creggs won 3624 to finish their season in style. Creggs started the game on the front foot with Andrej Anic scoring after just three minutes with Sam Walsh adding the conversion.

Then Walsh scored a try himself and converted before the 10-minute mark, which put Creggs 14-0 up.

However, the joint Galway outfit struck for two tries of their own to narrow the gap to just two points with 20 minutes gone.

Creggs finished the half strongly with a try and a penalty which left the score at the break at 2212 in favour of Creggs.

The second half started in ideal fashion for Creggs with Colm Fitzgerald touching down for a try inside two minutes of the restart and Walsh getting his second try of the game seven minutes later.

With both tries converted, Creggs had a 24-point lead going into the final quarter, and even though the joint Galway team scored two more tries, the game finished 36-24 in favour of Creggs.

This victory was just reward for the effort this team put in during the year.

U-11s attend Athy Rugby Festival: In an end of season escape, 20 of the Creggs U-11s team, accompanied by coaches and some parents, travelled to Athy on Saturday morning for a weekend away for an overnight rugby camp out. There were 55 teams participating from all over Ireland and UK.

The team were in great shape and were victorious in all games. After the rugby blitz was over,

dinner was provided and then they all enjoyed party games and an outdoor disco before camping out for the night.

A big thanks to the parents and coaches for helping over the weekend.

Development Draw: The Creggs development draw takes place next Monday evening, May 6th, in the clubhouse.

The draw is expected to be broadcast live on the Creggs RFC Facebook page.

Top prize is €20,000 cash with Six Nations tickets available as other prizes.

Some tickets are still available and can be purchased from club members or online on www. creggsrugby.ie.

Connacht Junior Rugby v Ulster: Creggs RFC had five players on the Connacht Junior team in their opening round of the Interpro series against Ulster at the City of Derry RFC grounds on Saturday.

Club captain Brian Diffley, brothers Shane and Mark Purcell, Eoghan Coyle and Eoghan Cahill are named with Mark Dowd sidelined through injury and Ciaran Purcell unavailable.

It wasn’t a great start to the series, with a big loss to the bigger Ulster side.

The next Connacht game is on Saturday, May 4th in Creggs with a 2.30 pm kick-off against Leinster.

A big day is planned on Saturday where a good crowd is expected to support the local province.

Their final game against Munster will be at Old Christians grounds on Saturday, May 11th at 2.30 pm.

Lotto: There was no winner of the club lotto jackpot. The new jackpot for next weekend is €13,200. The lucky dip winner was Mark Brandon.

Buccaneers lose out in U-13s

Buccaneers gave it their all in the Bank of Ireland Connacht U-13 Cup final but simply could not match an excellent display by Carrick-on-Shannon who triumphed on a 29-0 scoreline at the Dexcom Stadium last Sunday.

Carrick had the benefit of playing with the breeze in the first half and made it count. The young Buccs’ side could not handle the attacking rugby from the Leitrim side and they went in 17-0 up at half-time.

Five minutes into the second half Carrick went over for an-

other try to extend their lead. Buccaneers fared much better for the remainder of the game but just could not get on the scoreboard despite some spirited play. Just before full-time Carrick struck again, leaving the final score 29-0.

Carrick players had a decided size advantage over the Athlonians. They were more organised and cohesive and their placekicking was impressive too. Although the cup result was not what they had hoped for, these young Buccs players can take great credit from their progress

throughout the season.

Buccaneers U-17s: Buccaneers U-17s never really got going in their Bank of Ireland Connacht Cup semi-final against their arch-rivals Corinthians who proved the better side on the day, winning 22-11 at Corinthian Park.

These teams have served up some great contests in recent seasons but this duel did not reach those heights as Corinthians took a firm grip on proceedings from the start and led 12-3 at half-time.

The second half was a tighter

affair and Buccs pulled the gap back to three points soon after play resumed but Corinthians scored a penalty and a converted try to regain control of the match.

Buccs continued to battle but all they could muster was one final try that completed the 22-11 scoreline in a match that surprisingly failed to really catch fire as previous contests had.

Buccs Players Awards: Buccaneers RFC Annual Player Awards event takes place on this bank holiday Friday, May 3rd, at The Bounty. Player of the Year

awards will be presented to the U-20s, Seconds and Firsts.

The Connacht League titles won by the Seconds and U-20s squads will be celebrated while the club’s international representatives will be honoured and the Club Person of the Year will be presented with the Michael Hanley Memorial Perpetual Cup.

Presentations will also be made to a venerable trio – Martin Staunton, Shane Layden and Danny Qualter – who are all retiring after long and chequered careers with the Pirates.

‘Give It A Try’ for girls: ‘Give It A Try’ is a fun introduction at Buccaneers to rugby for girls aged 8 to 12 years. It continues on Mondays for 8 weeks. Cost is only €10. Buccs Summer Camp: Buccaneers Rugby Summer Camp will take place from 12th to 16th of August. Book early to ensure your place by contacting Geraldine at 086 1732711. AGM: Kindly note that the AGM of Buccaneers Rugby Football Club will take place in The Bounty on Friday, May 24th, at 7.30 pm.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from BUCCANEERS RFC

Players from the Creggs U-10s team pictured during the Aviva Minis National Rugby Festival at Aviva Stadium in Dublin recently. Pic: ©INPHO/ Laszlo Geczo

Ex-Ireland player Gordan D’Arcy pictured with some of the Creggs U-11s during the Rugby Festival in Athy recently.

Classy Curran leads Roscommon charge

Electric Ireland

Connacht MFC

Roscommon 2-15

Leitrim 1-9

SEAMUS DUKE



The Roscommon minor footballers have all but guaranteed themselves a place in the play-off stages of the Connacht Minor Championship following a very impressive win against Leitrim in Ballinamore on Friday night last. Dara Curran was

the stand-out player for Roscommon, contributing 1-3.

The sides were well matched early on and Leitrim led by 0-4 to 0-3 after just ten minutes, but Roscommon got their attacking game going after that, scoring five points without reply to lead by four after 19 minutes, with Dara Curran scoring three for James Duignan’s side. In the 23rd minute Cathal Enright finished a fine move to the Leitrim net and Roscommon were now ahead by 1-9 to 0-5. However, a goal and a point from the hosts before the break saw Roscommon go in at half-time leading by just three,

1-9 to 1-6.

The sides exchanged points in the opening minutes of the second half before Roscommon took over, adding some excellent scores.

Stephen Tighe, Dara Curran and Sean McDonnell were all on target and the clinching goal for Roscommon arrived in the 54th minute when Curran finished a superb team move.

Roscommon play Sligo in their final group game in Dr Hyde Park this coming Friday night and their wins against Galway and Leitrim have put them in with every chance of contesting a Connacht final.

On the Pitch

DARTS

McDermott’s conquer Holly Tree in cup final

The nals of the Hannon’s Hotel-sponsored Roscommon Darts League took place in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon recently.

Competing for the Atty Hynes Cup were McDermott’s of Ballinaheglish and The Holly Tree of Roscommon. This year’s nal was a tight a air with McDermott’s Bar winning it 4-2 in the end.

The presentation of The Atty Hynes Memorial Cup was made by Matt Hynes to winning captain Brendan Mullarkey and medals to all players were presented by Martina McKeon.

Kelly Cup: The Annual Martin Kelly Cup will be held in The Hollywood Bar, Roscommon Town on Saturday, May 11th. Names to be in by 6.30 pm with the rst game set for 7 pm.

The competition is con ned to Roscommon League players or those who have been associated with Roscommon darts. Entry fees are as follows: Adult €10, Youths €5. Prize money will be money in-money out plus €200 sponsorship from the Hollywood Bar. Trophies will be presented on the day for overall Winner, Runner-up, Semi- nalists, Highest Checkout, Best Lady and Best Youth.

C’mon The Town

Our boys U-18 team were unfortunate to exit the cup as they lost out at home to Cloonfad. Penalties were needed to decide the game.

On Monday last, all three of our boys U-14 teams had games. Town 1 won in Ballinagare, Town 2 and 3 lost out away to Ballaghaderreen and Castlerea, respectively.

On Tuesday, our U-12 Town 2 boys team hosted Glen Celtic in the Cup quarter-final, Town 1 were away to Shiven while Town 3 were in Ballinlough.

On Wednesday evening, the girls U-12 team played Cloonfad while the U-16 girls were also in Shield action as they hosted Kilkerrin.

On Thursday evening, the boys U-16 Town 1 side welcome Skyvalley to Lisnamult in the cup semifinal.

Training and matches continue for our boys and girls 7s, 9s and 11s teams this weekend.

Supporting our Sponsors

We thank our local businesses and individuals for sponsoring jerseys, training tops and coach tops for our teams in 2024 and we ask you to support them as they support us: Castle Street Tyres, Roscommon People, Kreative Salon Supplies, Dermot Hughes Cars, Roscommon Tyre Centre, Warm ‘n’ Cosy Homes, Hannon’s Hotel.

TG4 coming to Town

The TV cameras are coming to the club next week. Roscommon Town are participating in the Club Areina series on TG4.

The boys and girls from our U-11s and U-12s teams who are participating are a credit to their families and our visitors are impressed with the standard of Irish, attitude and enthusiasm of the children.

It should be a positive experience for all – players, parents, coaches and everyone associated with the club.

Go n-eiri an t-adh leat!

Sejam todos bem vindos

Queremos desejar as boas-vindas aos jogadores e seus pais que estarão presentes em nosso clube para a temporada de 2024.

É ótimo ver os jogadores retornando para mais uma temporada e também ver novos rostos jogando pelo Town. Esperamos que sua experiência seja educativa e agradável. Vamos lá pessoal!

Top of the Table!

The picnic tables in the park are looking great. Thanks to Liam for painting and to Treacy Decor for sponsoring the materials. It is very much appreciated and the efforts have enhanced the complex.

Wise Words

The results you achieve will be in direct proportion to the effort you apply – Denis Waitley

Roscommon: Patrick Gaynor; Liam Finneran, Gordon Casey (0-1), Martin Connaughton; Alan Conroy, Keelan Kelly, Colin Murray (0-1); Darragh Devanney, Declan Kennedy; Shay McGuinness (0-2), Eoin Collins (0-1), Cathal Enright (1-1); Dara Curran (1-3, 3 frees), Stephen Tighe (0-4), Dean Casey (0-1, free).

Subs: Sean McDonnell (0-1) for D Casey (37), Joe McKeon for Conroy (45), Conor Kennedy for McGuinness (54), Anthony Cox for Murray (56), Jeffrey Oates for G Casey (58) .

James Duignan will be hoping his young Roscommon team can defeat Sligo on Friday evening. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon minors have a chance of making the Connacht MFC nal if they defeat Sligo in Dr Hyde Park tomorrow evening (Friday). Our photo shows team and subs from recent game against Galway. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

In association with the

Dermot Hughes of Dermot Hughes Cars presenting the Boys U-14 Town 2 team with their new jerseys that he has sponsored.

SportsPeople

Dunning hails ‘round robin’ and relishes chance to challenge for the title

After one of the most exciting Connacht Championships in recent memory – at any level – Saturday evening’s U-20 football decider brings together Roscommon and Galway.

After a series of drawn games, both teams are in the final after very impressive wins.

Noel Dunning, the Roscommon manager, says that the players were on a high after their big win against Leitrim two weeks ago.

“The players were thrilled after that match. They are only young lads and although we had a good championship up to that we didn’t have the winning feeling after any game – so it was great.

“That we qualified for the final was a bonus because it wasn’t what we set out to do. We just wanted to win the game and get into the semi-final. But that win put us in the final (due to winning margin) and it’s a great boost in confidence for the team – and you can tell that from watching

them in training since”.

When asked if the twoweek gap between the Leitrim match and the final has been a positive dimension to the preparations, he said: “There are two ways of looking at it, to be honest. We had a break during the group stage and it worked out very well for us so hopefully this will be the same for the final”.

Dunning says that Galway will provide very formidable opposition in the final.

“Galway played very well against Sligo and put up a big score (0-23) so we will have to be on top of our game for the final.

“For Galway to go to a neutral ground and put in that kind of display against a good team like Sligo is all the warning that we need. They had the game put to bed early so they are coming into good form at the right time”.

Noel says that the ‘round robin’ format in the provincial championship this year has produced a great competition.

“It’s been fantastic and

that’s even despite what every team has had to put up with in terms of bad weather and poor pitch conditions, etc. It has been exciting all the way through, right up to the final game. The knockout situation is in the past and the new format was vindicated this year”.

The manager says that a provincial win for the U-20s on Saturday would be a boost for the game in the county.

“The seniors were out

of luck against Mayo but the minors had good wins against Galway and Leitrim and we want to replicate that this weekend. Any big win we have is good for the county in general”.

There are a couple of injury worries in the runup to the final.

“Tommy Morris and Ethan O’Reilly are dealing with injuries but we consider that we have a strong panel and we have used plenty of players

during this championship. If one player is injured it’s a chance for someone else to step up. When one door closes another one opens”.

In conclusion, the Roscommon manager said: “It’s a Connacht final. There are three other teams who would love to be where we are on Saturday evening. It would be fantastic to win it and would be a big boost to everyone involved in the GAA in the county”.

 SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon U-20 manager Noel Dunning will be hoping his team can defeat Galway on Saturday evening and take home this year’s Connacht title. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

U-20s set sights

EirGrid Connacht U-20 FC Final: Roscommon v Galway on Saturday at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, Castlebar at 5.15 pm

 SEAMUS DUKE

This year’s U-20 competition has been one of the most exciting Connacht football championships in any grade for some years.

Up to the fourth and final round every single team had a chance to make the play-off stages – but in the end it’s Galway and Roscommon who will battle it out in the final this Saturday evening.

After so many close games in the group stages, it was surprising that both Roscommon (against Leitrim) and Galway (against Sligo) had resounding victories to ensure their qualification for the decider.

Roscommon were superb against Leitrim. Noel Dunning and his selectors, Frankie Dolan and David Neary, have used many combinations of players throughout this campaign

but I presume that the team that will line out against Galway this weekend will be along similar lines to the one we saw play so well in Ballinamore.

The full-back line was impressive. James Connolly has been outstanding at full-back. Daniel Casey from Boyle is emerging into a real leader of the group at centre half-back and Eoghan Carthy was a revelation against Leitrim in the half-back line.

Conor Ryan is a very impressive player in the middle of the park. The selectors brought Rob Heneghan out to the centre in the Leitrim game so they may well retain him there for the match against Galway.

Senan Lambe is another player who has been superb for Roscommon in this campaign and he is equally at home in any position in the half-back line, half-forward line or midfield.

In attack, Bobby Nugent, Rory Hester and Ryan Conlon have all been doing well but the main man up front has been Shane McGinley. Hopefully the Strokestown star will be on top of his game on Saturday evening.

Roscommon’s Shane McGinley in action during their Connacht U-20 Football Championship match against Mayo in Dr Hyde Park in March. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon players Bobby Nugent and DJ Hession pictured during a training session at the Connacht Centre of Excellence in Bekan recently.

on Connacht title

Niall O’Donnell also merits a mention. He was superb in the match against Leitrim and is a huge addition to the team in terms of his ball-winning ability and his eye for a score.

Galway exploded from the blocks in their semifinal against Sligo, scoring 0-23 in the process. They

were 0-12 to 0-1 up after only 20 minutes, and some of their attacking play that night was top drawer. They beat Sligo in the end by 0-23 to 1-12.

A very noticeable aspect of Galway’s performance against Sligo was the spread of scorers throughout the team, with 12 dif-

ferent players on the mark.

The scorers included goalkeeper Eamon McGrath, who is a very impressive performer. Others to watch out for on the Galway side are Darragh Costello, Shay McGlinchey, Cian Murphy, Jack Mullin and Colm Costello.

The Galway team are

managed by former star Derek Savage and in his backroom team he has Ja Fallon, Gareth Bradshaw and Damien Dowd.

This promises to be a superb game of open, attacking football. When the sides met in the group stages in Dr Hyde Park on a night of really ter-

rible weather conditions, the game ended level 0-6 apiece.

The weather will be better this weekend. I think that Roscommon are improving and will have enough to win by a point or two.

Prediction: Roscommon.

The Roscommon U-20s’ management team who were present at the recent training session at the Connacht Centre of Excellence in Bekan. Left to right: Johnny O’Kee e (kitman); John Cunningham (physio); Evan Talty (coach/selector); Frankie Dolan (selector); Noel Dunning (manager), and Mike Frawley (strength & conditioning).

Roscommon players Robert Heneghan, Conor Ryan and Senan Lambe pictured during a training session at the Connacht Centre of Excellence in Bekan recently.

Roscommon players Rory Carthy and Shane McGinley pictured during a training session at the Connacht Centre of Excellence in Bekan recently.

Roscommon’s James McGreal in action during this year’s Connacht U-20 Championship. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Rob Heneghan of Michael Glavey’s in action for the Roscommon U-20s when they faced Galway in Dr Hyde Park recently. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell