03 September 2021 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

The BIGGEST readership of ANY Roscommon newspaper! Readership is now 80,000 people every week!

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie

Tel. (090) 66 34633

03 September 2021

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

SALE NOW ON

VOLUME: 748

Covid: Restrictions to go next month!

Finishing Touches New range of Net Curtains NOW IN STOCK

Contact Frances on

087 6500931 Open 9.30 - 6.00 pm

The Square, Roscommon

Email: francesfinishingtouches@gmail.com

Tel.: 090 6626270 or 087 6500931

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has this week announced plans to lift most of Ireland’s Covid-19 restrictions by October 22nd. Speaking on Tuesday, the Taoiseach said the time was now right to move into a new phase of living with the disease. “The time is now right to begin the move from regulation and widespread restrictions on people’s personal freedom, to an approach primarily defined by public health advice, personal behaviour, judgement and responsibility,” he said. All public transport returned to 100 percent capacity yesterday (Wednesday) while organised indoor events and mass gatherings will return to normality from next Monday (September 6th). Where everyone is vaccinated or ‘immune’, the capacity Roscommon-Galway Constituency at indoor events, cinemas and theatres can be 60 percent. The numbers allowed at weddings will remain at 100 for now, but live music will be permitted and legal restrictions on dancing will be removed. 50 percent capacity will also Eugene be permitted at religious ceremonies. Vótáil Outdoor organised events will be allowed to return to 75 percent of venue capacity, where attendees are immune or those under the age of eighteen accompanied by an adult.

15kg Bag €15

** 2 For €28 **

TOMMIE KELLY ELECTRICAL Athleague, Roscommon – 090 6663385 ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

Back to College Savings

Wards

Circular Road, Roscommon town Tel. 090 6626172

Abbey Street, Roscommon T: (090) 6627498

F: (090) 6665590 E: info@liddyneilan.ie

Murphy

Pictured at the Denise Broderick Memorial Walk/Run in aid of Cancer Care West in Lecarrow on Saturday last were Denise’s sister and nephew, Laura and Darragh Moran.

For the best value on home heating oil and Agri Eugene fuels Murphy

Depot: 090 663 46 45 Jason 087 188 8114 • Joe 087 188 8115

No 2: Orla Leyden

Eugene Murphy

An Ireland for all In the present difficult

Fighting back on behalf of the people of Roscommon/Galway

ATHLONE Ι MOATE

Constituency Offices:

Never run out of oil again with our

Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

LANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

 eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

Lubricants

Finn Electrical

*in contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

Senator

Kevin Ireland 087 221 6127 • Matt Devane 087 188 2288 Elphin Street, cirumstances, please be Market Square, Ballinasloe, Strokestown, reassured Roscommon Townavailable Co. Galway that I am or online at www.sweeneyoil.ie Co. Roscommon Co. Roscommon  at all times if you have any 087 435 3834  071 963 3000  090 662 5722 concerns or issues

NEW Oil Monitor!

Practice areas include: • Conveyancing • Family Law • Probate, Wills & Estate Planning • Personal Injury Claims and Litigation*

Real Solutions for Rural Ireland “I am committed to helping to improve the quality of life for people in rural Ireland which has largely been left behind- we need to build a future where people can live, work and enjoy the many benefits of rural living”

Fuel Cards

Madra Dog Food

< DAN DOONER

Frances’

Commercial

Rossies put to the sword by rampant Wexford. See page 38

MOBILE: Working with your local Fianna Fáil team: Cllr Michael Connolly, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr John Keogh, 087 1668775 Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Marty McDermott, Cllr Joe Murphy

HEGARTY Plant Hire Self-drive Hire of Excavators from 1 tonne to 13 tonne

Dumpers, Rollers, Teleporters, Hoists, Cherry Pickers, etc. Daily/Weekly/Monthly rate options available DELIVERY AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE

Call for more info on 087 2536428 or 086 6676424

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

Michael Fitzmaurice

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie

Appointments available for age 12 and upwards with Pfizer Vaccine

CASEY’S

Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

Pharmacy

Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789

Contact our dedicated Medical Negligence Department in

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

Christy Connolly Recovery CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

ROSCOMMON

Now TD Delivering McGUINNESS Mob.: 086

1914565

MEDICAL ACCIDENTS

Contact 090 66 38000

TEL. 094 9620793 MOB. 086 2505325 / 087 2505325 E: connollychristy@eircom.net

• Approved recyclers of end of life vehicles • Destruction certs issued • 24/7 recovery service available nationwide

NEW -

Clarins Double Serum ‘Eye’

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

People WATCHING With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358

info@oates.ie • www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

For a confidential chat, ring Aengus on (086) 2573358

Accident on Holidays I recently returned from my summer holidays in Spain. Due to circumstances outside of my control I spent a few days of my holidays at the local hospital. To cut a long story short my foot went through the wooden decking attached to our accommodation. The decking was old and some of it simply gave way when I walked on it. My leg was badly cut from my ankle to above my knee. I booked my package holiday through a tour operator but their representative did not offer me any advice regarding compensation for my expenses. Do I have to hire a Spanish lawyer to help me? If you booked your holiday as a “package holiday” through a tour operator you may be able to make an injury compensation claim against the tour operator for your injuries and any related financial losses. A package holiday is defined under the Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act 1995 (the “Act”) as a combination of two or more of the following, when sold or offered for sale at an inclusive price:(i) transport; (ii) accommodation; (iii) other significant elements of a tourist service nature. Under the Act a tour operator may be held responsible for all of the services provided as part of a package holiday including holiday accommodation. Consequently, the tour operator may be liable if the accommodation fails to comply with the standards of health and safety in that country. Legal proceedings may be brought before the Courts in the country where the injured party resides or where the incident occurred. Obviously, it is preferable to bring proceedings in your own country. It is important to engage a Solicitor as soon as possible to advise you on the best course of action to take. Please feel free to contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham dedicated Litigation Department in confidence for expert advice.

It’s SO exciting! The superstar is back! Just hope he doesn’t start preening again! Oh it’s just SO exciting! Huh? HE’S REALLY BACK! Huh? Back in the sporting spotlight! Centre stage again! Oh yeah...HIM... He’s been relatively quiet for a few years...by his standards...maybe even the odd suggestion that he’s past it... Mmnn...I dunno, he may not be the force he once was, but he still scores! Oh yeah, he still scores, but he’s definitely not at the peak of his powers! Okay... Which is PRECISELY WHY his return to the centre stage is SO EXCITING! Okay, I get you now! He’s a sporting God! Absolutely! And now the brash genius is centre stage again...commanding all the headlines, reminding us of his glory years...! Yeah, it’s been an exciting few days alright... I mean, at his best, he was unstoppable! Yeah, racing down the wing... DANCING down the wing! Had defenders twisting one way, then the other... Gave defenders nightmares! (They pause to fantastise about the gazelle-like freak of nature in all his pomp) Now he’s back where he belongs! What a sporting story!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

I agree! Okay, he slowed down as the years went by – mellowed even – I actually thought he was finished! Nah, sure even as the years passed he was still hitting the target! Mmnn... Anyways, I agree with your basic point, which is that he’s back as the centre of attention! We’re talking about him! It’s a reminder that we’re merely living in his crazy world! Yes! I can’t wait to see him in his next outing... Same here! I just hope he doesn’t do any of that preening he’s prone to...you know, when he just stands there, hands outstretched, posing like a peacock...

Yeah, all ‘Look at me, ain’t I something special’... Yeah! But no doubt, now that he’s centre stage again, we’ll see a bit of that. He’ll do that look to camera, he’ll put his hands out, he’ll simply DEMAND our attention! It’s part of the package... Exactly! (They pause to visualise their hero in full preening mode, a physical specimen imbued with extraordinary self-belief) You know he became a cult? Absolutely! We’re just lucky to have lived in his time... Agreed! Just one question...is he really worth the money he’s being paid? I mean, he’s not the performer he was... He’s worth ANY money! Look, I did begin this by saying he hasn’t been the force he was. If anything, he was almost becoming irrelevant. But the point is, HE’S BACK NOW! He’s a sporting icon, and he’s back! Yeah, let’s just celebrate him... EXACTLY! Ronaldo! Cristiano Ronaldo! You are THE MAN! A sporting God! You defy time! You are back at Manchester United! You’re back in the spotlight! Ronaldo? Ronaldo? Yeah, Ronaldo...we have been talking about Ronaldo, haven’t we? Eh, no...I was talking about Pat Spillane. He’s back on form after years of either ‘Parody Pat’ or ‘Past It Pat’. Pat was awesome against Sean Cavanagh on RTE last Saturday. Pat’s rolling back the years, it’s magic! Both: Let’s hear it for Spillan-do!

What we liked… Confirmation that almost all Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted by October 22nd.

What we didn’t like… The high profile setback for residents and landowners in the vicinity of Lough Funshinagh where planned flood relief works have been suspended following a High Court action taken by Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE).

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

What PEOPLE are talking about…

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

Young Tadhg Auchmuty watches on as Edward Feeney makes the most of the recent good weather near Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

The imminent lifting of most Covid-19 restrictions; Tyrone’s shock win over Kerry; The Electric Picnic saga; The return of Ronaldo to Manchester United; The Paralympics; The bombing of Kabul Airport and the general chaos in Afghanistan…

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

€10 / per Van Car & Trailer

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

Covid restrictions to be lifted by October 22nd < DAN DOONER

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has this week an-nounced plans to lift most of Ireland’s Covid-19 restrictions by October 22nd. Speaking on Tuesday, the Taoiseach said the time was now right to move into a new phase of living with the disease. “The time is now right to begin the move from regulation and widespread

restrictions on people’s personal freedom, to an approach primarily defined by public health advice, personal behaviour, judgement and responsibility,” he said. All public transport returned to 100 percent capacity yesterday (Wednesday) while organised indoor events and mass gatherings will return to normality from next Monday (September 6th).

Roscommon-Athlone bus service for school and college students

CASEY’S, Roscommon

DEPARTS

at 08.00 hrs., Monday – Friday STOPPING AT

• BALLYMURRAY • KNOCKCROGHERY • LECARROW • KILTOOM • HODSON BAY Evening study catered for with departures from Athlone at 16.00 hrs. and 18.00 hrs. BUS SERVICE FOR ROSCOMMON TOWN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Starting in Curraghroe, Cloontuskert, Lanesboro, Ballyleague and surrounding areas.

For further information please contact Pat Naughton on 087-4105449 or 090 66 61058 or Martin 087 9144445

Where everyone is vaccinated or ‘immune’, the capacity at indoor events, cinemas and theatres can be 60 percent. The numbers allowed at weddings will remain at 100 for now, but live music will be permitted and legal restrictions on dancing will be removed. 50 percent capacity will also be permitted at religious ceremonies. Outdoor organised events will be allowed to return to 75 percent of venue capacity, where attendees are immune or those under the age of eighteen accompanied by an adult. From September 20th, all workers will return to workplaces on a phased, staggered basis. Organised indoor group activities are also expected to resume. Restrictions on outdoor group activities will be

removed completely but spectator attendance will remain in line with regulations on events. October 22nd or ‘Freedom Day’ as it has been described by Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, will see all remaining restrictions lifted, including the requirement to socially distance. Nightclubs will be allowed to reopen and a certificate of vaccination, immunity or testing will no longer be required to attend restaurants or take part in other activities or events with the exception of international travel. Measures such as the wearing of face coverings in shops, public transport and healthcare settings will remain in place, however, and people will still be required to self-isolate when they experience Covid-19 symptoms.

Kerrane welcomes U-turn on PUP payments

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection, Claire Kerrane TD, has welcomed the government’s U-turn on planned changes to the Pandemic Unemployment Payment, but warned that they do not go far enough. Speaking on the issue, Deputy Kerrane said: “I welcome this U-turn by Government just days before changes to the PUP were due to take effect. These changes would have seen 27,581 people currently on a PUP rate of €203 moved onto a Jobseeker’s pay-

BREAKING NEWS The summer is here...

Join us for boat trips on the River Shannon from Ballyleague this weekend ...on the award-winning Lough Ree Access For All passenger boat Book now at www.loughreeboattrips.com or call 089 2625505 TODAY to book YOUR seat ...and remember...it’s for EVERYBODY!

ment. This would have been devastating for these workers’ finances. “For those without the required number of PRSI contributions, this would have meant moving onto the means-tested Jobseeker’s Allowance, which takes entire household income into account. This would have hit young workers particularly hard, as those aged between 18-24 would have seen their income plummet to a maximum of €112.70 per week.

“The Government’s plan to change the PUP in this way never made sense. I welcome that they have now accepted how illadvised and ill-timed these plans were. “This would have had serious implications for them; it would have meant they were obliged to seek work and could have been referred to Job Activation Schemes despite being neither Jobseekers nor unemployed”. Deputy Kerrane she had raised these issues with Minister Heath-

er Humphreys and said that while she welcomes the decision to row back on cuts, it was “regrettable” that it had taken so long. “It is important to note that the Government has changed its view on just some of the planned changes to the PUP. It is important that all the planned cuts do not go ahead next week. The PUP must not be slashed by €50 per week from next Tuesday. The Minister must cancel plans to implement these changes,” she said.

Murphy claims businesses may have to cut hours due to staff shortage Concerns raised over PUP Many local employers are facing into a staffing crisis amidst concern that some businesses may have to curtail their trading hours. That’s according to Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy, who says a number of local employers have contacted him to raise their concerns. Senator Murphy indicated that students returning to schools/colleges is one reason for the materialising staff shortage, while there is also concern that the PUP (Pandemic Unemployment Payment) is

acting as a disincentive against some people returning to the workplace. Speaking to the Roscommon People, Senator Murphy said: “Employers throughout the region are facing a huge crisis for the autumn and winter because they are finding it almost impossible to find employees”. He said many small businesses in this region are facing “an emergency” because they are unable to fill employment vacancies. “Many of the people concerned say that with

students returning to their schools and colleges they will possibly have to limit their opening hours. “Most of those who contacted me are in retail – with some in the hospitality sector and also some in service industry – but all have one common challenge now, and that is to retain their present opening hours. This is all down to a shortage of workers”. Senator Murphy said that some local business people are blaming the PUP on the basis that continuing the payment may be

counter-productive. “I would make the point that the process of slowly re-moving the PUP is in progress. Having said that, I feel that the payments or some other form of assistance should continue for some time in certain areas, particularly in the arts and entertainment sector”.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

Water conservation talk and field trip A water conservation talk and field trip has been organised by the Roscommon Tidy Towns Association for 3 pm on Friday, September 3rd. Starting at Loughnanane Park, the walk will continue onto the River Jiggy and River Hind.

The talk will feature speakers Professor Ken Whelan and Martin McGarrigle of Limnos Consultancy. The event will enable us to understand just why our fresh water sources are so important, as well focusing on the importance of all the plants and animals

Martina’s Fashions

that rely on these watery arteries. Our lakes, rivers and streams are under threat. All are welcome to attend, and booking is essential. Contact the Roscommon Tidy Towns Association by emailing johnlarkin@ gmail.com.

Ballygar, Co. Galway. Tel.: (090) 66 24561

MASSIVE SALE

25% OFF All Summer Stock

l Tops l T-shirts l Dresses and l Suits

Starts Friday, 3rd September

for 2 weeks only

newsbriefs Drop in clinic at Castlerea FRC Family drop in clinic continues throughout the week by phone or appointment only at Castlerea Community and Family Resource Centre. This is a space for parents who want advice or support on an issue relating to their family. The community drop in is open for all community members who meet need support with printing, photocopying, help filling out forms etc. Our clothes bank has now been emptied and is available again for donations. Donations help the centre to raise funds towards the running costs of the project, including various programmes and supports. Contact Martina on 086-1711394 or Aisling on 086-4615537 for any of the above services. Music Generation starts again for 7-10-year-olds on Tuesday, September 7th from 4 pm to 5.15 pm. Contact Martina on 0861711394 to book your child’s place.

Road works continue at the Square on Main Street in Roscommon Town as part of the Roscommon Town Public Realm Enhancement Project. The work is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Pic: Mick McCormack --------

ADVERTORIAL - - - - - - - -

Skills to Advance with GRETB! Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB)  have a number of highly funded online business courses available this autumn. These courses are available to employees and employers to upskill  and provide relevant,  valuable skills for today’s workplace. Under the  Government funded Skills to Advance initiative,  employers can avail of this funded training to help and benefit their organisation, which can help to improve their employees skills level, respond to the changing nature of business or help take advantage of emerging opportunities, upskilling staff is  central to delivering  long term sustainable growth  and adapting to the rapid  changes businesses are facing.  GRETB are offering programmes in Supervisory Management and also Leadership and Management, providing supervisory staff with valuable people management skills such as performance management. Providing staff with these valuable skills will not only enhance

SKILLS TO ADVANCE

Funded Upskilling for Employers, Employees and Self Employed.

Information now available for the following part time courses.

Details at Fetchcourses.ie and enter Fetch code Course Title

Provisional Start Date*

Duration

Location

330539

Supervisory Management (Employees apply directly)

13/09/21 2 evenings pw

7 weeks

Online

330999

Training & Development

17/09/21 One full day pw

8 weeks

Online

318442

ILM Leadership & Management

20/9/21 2 evenings pw

12 weeks

Online

330537

Supervisory Management (Employers apply for funded upskilling)

28/09/21 2 evenings pw

7 weeks

Online

318435

Customer Service In Industry

04/10/21 2 evenings pw

11 weeks

Online

327541

Payroll (Manual & Computerised)

25/10/21 2 evenings pw

8 weeks

Online

Fetch Code

*Times and dates may be subject to change

your business but also improve performance metrics and help to develop your workforce’s agility. GRETB also have online programmes in Customer Service in Industry and Training and Development which are are highly funded (subject to eligibility criteria). These online programmes are designed to provide accessible training

solutions to fit around busy working lives.    GRETB strongly encourages employers within Galway and Roscommon to get in contact and take advantage of this great opportunity to upskill staff. Further details available at skillstoadvance.ie or contact Skills To Advance Coordinator, Amanda.percy@gretb.ie  or call 091-706276.

Skills to Advance also include funded courses in Healthcare, Childcare, Care of the Elderly, Good Manufacturing Practice, Continuous Improvements in Manufacturing, Welding, Social Media for Business, Aquaculture, Barista Training, Tourguiding, Hotel Front Office with Hotsoft, eCollege, 50 Shades Greener (for hospitality) and many more.

For further details contact Amanda.Percy@gretb.ie or call 091 706276. Provision co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union. Có-mhaoinithe ag an

AONTAS EORPACH Co-funded by the

EUROPEAN UNION

European Union European Regional Development Fund Investing in your future

learning works

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Thursday

Sunday

The weather is glorious. I buy some petrol for the lawnmower. “Everyone is mowing their lawn” says the friendly man behind the counter, smiling broadly. Oddly, he doesn’t appear to be grumpy about being stuck behind the counter on such a hot day. Maybe he’s on commission for petrol sales! Mowing the lawn is generally enjoyable. While giving the impression of being busy, you can actually relax and avail of valuable time to think. You can even listen to music or podcasts or rambling radio DJs. Usually, I just think about life, in between bouts of frustration at the sometimes erratic conduct of our occasionally moody mower. By 3 o’clock the grass is cut, and without any mower mishap. Over the years I’ve learnt that you have to be gentle with these machines – or else they can revolt. Taking a break, I check the news websites, and am shocked to read that England football captain Harry Kane has decided to stay at Spurs, where he earns in excess of 200,000 pounds sterling per week. (I’m assuming he has the very latest ride-on mower). Meanwhile, there’s speculation that Manchester City, no doubt privately miffed at failing to sign Kane, may be about to coax Cristiano Ronaldo back to the Premier League. The veteran superstar earns a reputed 950,000 pounds sterling each week at Juventus. Presumably he has a team of gardeners. Back in the real world, I return to the garden. Now I’m wielding our old friend, the strimmer. For some of us, keeping the two pieces of string/cord jutting out (not to mention of similar length) almost becomes the entire purpose of this exercise. It’s a bonus if you actually successfully chop most of the offensive weeds/grass, etc. Usually, I’m just happy if the strimmer string survives a session. Later, when it’s no longer sinful to be inside on such a beautiful day, I’m pleased to see Rory McIllroy rolling in the birdies (and a sensational eagle) on his way to joint top of the leaderboard in the BMW Championship. Hopefully he can

The finale of the golf was absorbing. Rory (see Thursday) had a great tournament, but the honours went to Patrick Cantlay, who won a 6-hole play-off against Bryson DeChambeau. DeChambeau may be a divisive figure, but not liking him is to reject individualism and originality! I think he’s brilliant, a superstar with a certain unique charisma. Maybe the fact that many people dislike him is part of the appeal. It’s a privileged world of private jets and bulging bank accounts, but the weekly (PGA) golf is invariably gripping entertainment.

Monday

‘Real Time with Bill Maher’ (Sky Comedy) maintain this promising form over the weekend. McIllroy in full pomp is box office.

Later on Thursday Sadly, a beautiful day here is shadowed by the awful events in Afghanistan, where a crisis that became a catastrophe is now sheer horror. I’m switching between the various news channels. Reports of sickening bomb attacks at Kabul Airport today are heartbreaking, but also stir emotions of anger. I accept that President Biden made it clear he’d be withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan, but his administration is guilty of handling this exit appallingly badly. It is clear that there was no proper planning, that a resurgent Taliban was underestimated. A deflated President Biden makes an uninspiring address, high on empathy but low on credible leadership. His handling of the situation in Afghanistan has been awful. He is a weak President. This is a disaster, and one fears for what the future holds.

Friday Deep down, most us suspected it mightn’t work out between Ronaldo and Manchester City. ‘They have nothing in common, I’d never have put them together’ territory. Mind you, City would have come to the altar with a nice dowry (younger readers might

want to turn to Google). Now Ronaldo has instead turned his attention to an old flame. It’s quite a story, with Manchester United swooping in under City’s noses (if you’re to believe the narrative) and re-signing the superstar who left Old Trafford in 2009. In Sky Sports-land, one assumes there are dozens of graphics people already working overtime. The transfer is an unexpected boost for Manchester United supporters. As for neutrals, most won’t be particularly excited in the short-term, but will watch developments with interest. On the excellent Off The Ball this evening, Ger Gilroy goes as far as suggesting that we are experiencing a bizarre period of ‘cartoon transfers’. Ronaldo is 36 – clearly not the force he was – and while he will contribute positively on the pitch, there’s a sense that this is almost a form of showbiz, a clever signing with very lucrative commercial gains (including through sale of merchandise and other income streams). It’s good for Ronaldo too. These megabucks transfers – cartoon transfers if you want to go that far – have to be financed. If your son or daughter is a Manchester United supporter, you’ll probably be making your contribution soon.

Saturday Today’s contest at Croke Park went to the wire, a good old-style tussle between two fiercely combative oppo-

nents. It was, in the great tradition of Kerry-Tyrone showdowns, aggressive, uncompromising, at times below the belt. With some seriously tough exchanges, it wasn’t for the faint-hearted. In the end, with his greater experience and well honed grasp of hyperbole, I thought that Pat Spillane edged it over a shell-shocked Sean Cavanagh.

Also on Saturday In the other contest at Croke Park (which followed the spat between pundits), Tyrone footballers staged a classic ambush of hot favourites, Kerry. Tyrone suffocated their opponents in a performance marked by typically ferocious tackling, every turnover making new dents in Kerry’s confidence levels. At the other end, Tyrone scored gamedefining goals, Kerry unusually impotent on that front. While their shock win was thoroughly deserved, disquiet remains over Tyrone’s approach to the Covid-19 outbreak in their panel (which had led to the semi-final being postponed twice). The conspiracy theories will remain – certainly aspects of the saga sit uneasily with many of us – but at the end of the day it was 15 men against 15 men, and Kerry just have to accept that they were outplayed and outfought. It’s not easy to like the Tyrone football team, but if you were going into battle you would be very, very happy to see them lining up beside you.

‘Real Time with Bill Maher’ (Sky Comedy on Monday nights) is well worth a watch. Openly biased in favour of US Democrats, and obsessively anti-Trump, the host is a veteran comedian and a passionate political commentator. There are times when Bill’s bias is just annoying; even worse, times when his humour falls flat. But the show is usually a riveting exchange of views, with Maher an entertaining, provocative and mischievous host.

Tuesday RTE reporter Mícheál Lehane might be forgiven for wondering if that other Micheál – Taoiseach Martin – is trying to sabotage his burgeoning career. The pattern is clear. Every ‘Big Covid Announcement Day’ on the RTE Six One News, Mr. Lehane is just getting into his summary of leaked changes to restrictions, and then the anchor has to interrupt him to go live to Mr. Martin at the podium. That of course is minor enough stuff compared with the content of the Taoiseach’s speech. Today, Mr. Martin brought a message of great hope. Over the coming weeks, most restrictions will be lifted. The road ahead will still have many twists and turns, but at least all roadblocks and barriers are being removed. It’s a happy day, even for Mr. Lehane.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

Pictured at the Denise Broderick Memorial Walk/Run in aid of Cancer Care West last Saturday in Lecarrow were Emma Dempsey, Faith Greene and Denise’s daughter Alana Broderick.

Pictured at the Denise Broderick Memorial Walk/Run in aid of Cancer Care West in Lecarrow last Saturday.

Deckie Toland, Gerry Broderick, Paul and Jazelle Berry and Austin Murtagh pictured at the Denise Broderick Memorial Walk/Run in aid of Cancer Care West last Saturday in Lecarrow.

Pictured at the Denise Broderick Memorial Walk/Run in aid of Cancer Care West in Lecarrow last Saturday.

There was a strong turnout for the Denise Broderick Memorial Walk/Run in Lecarrow last Saturday in aid of Cancer Care West.

Expert patient-centred care at Hearing Solutions! ------------------------------------------------

Hearing loss can have a big impact on your life, from your work to your relationships and emotional well-being. It really doesn’t seem fair: hearing loss, a troublesome fact of life, may increase the risk of cognitive problems and even dementia. The general perception is that hearing loss is a relatively inconsequential part of aging, but it may play a much more important role in brain health. Adults with hearing loss are significantly more likely than adults with normal hearing to develop dementia. Fortunately, there’s a potential upside, treating hearing loss more aggressively could help stave off cognitive decline and dementia. Hearing aids can make a big difference, especially if you have them fitted by an experienced diagnostic audiologist who follows evidence-based best practice procedures to ensure your hearing aids give you access to all speech sounds even in noise. Aileen Plunkett has a long-established career in

Audiology. She developed strong diagnostic skills, with a busy and varied caseload as Chief Audiologist in the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital for 14 years. Aileen has continually developed her clinical skills and knowledge within the field maintaining ongoing professional development. Her former national role in the HSE as Assistance National Clinic Lead in Audiology included responsibility to provide clinical leadership in the HSE service, setting a robust standard of care that championed clinical excellence to provide high quality patient centered care. Hearing Solutions is committed to providing high quality hearing healthcare combining clinical expertise and commitment with trusted research-based services to the hard of hearing. Building on a foundation of knowledge, experience and compassion to provide hearing evaluations and treatment care plans to optimize results and build confidence while improving communications.

Hearing Solutions now provides a comprehensive diagnostic audiology service to Ear Nose and

ADVERTORIAL - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Throat Consultant in Bon Secours Hospital, Galway and Crescent ENT & Audiology Galway. Our

new location at Claddagh Optical brings this service locally to the people of Roscommon.

For more information or to book a consultation, contact Hearing Solutions, Claddagh Optical,

Athlone Road, Roscommon on 090-6626220/0879387951 or email info@ hearingsolutions.ie.

Aileen Plunkett Adult & Paediatric Audiologist associated with Cresent ENT & Audiology and Bon Secure Hospital Galway Adult Adult & Paediatric Audiologist associated with Cresent ENT & Audiology andBon Bon Secure Hospital & Paediatric Audiologist associated with Cresent ENT & Audiology and Secure Hospital New Roscommon location: Claddagh Optical Galway Galway 8 Athlone Rd, Ballypheasan, Roscommon, F42 VR92 New Roscommon location: Claddagh Optical88Athlone Athlone Rd, Rd, Ballypheasan, Roscommon, F42F42 New Roscommon location: Claddagh Optical Ballypheasan, 662 6220 / 0879387951 or email:Roscommon, info@hearingsolutions.ie To book a consultation Call: (090) VR92VR92

AileenAileen Plunkett Plunkett

Your Hearing in Safe & Experienced hands

To book a consultant Call: (090) 662 6220/0879387951 info@hearingsolutions.ie

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

Council issues statement on Lough Funshinagh decision < DAN DOONER

Roscommon County Council this week released a statement in the wake of the recent High Court decision to halt flood relief works at Lough Funshinagh following a successful injunction by environmental group, Friends of the Environment. The statement read: ‘In court recently, Roscommon County Council’s legal representatives stated that the Council acted for urgent humanitarian reasons to prevent flooding in exercise of its powers under the Local Authorities (Works) Act, 1949, but accepted that there are further obligations under the Environmental Directives

that the Council must comply with. Mr. Justice Simons of the High Court commended the Council’s approach to the litigation. The situation arose because the obligations under EU environmental law have not been transposed in respect of the Local Authorities (Works) Act, 1949. Roscommon County Council has been left with no option but to accept that flood relief works at Lough Funshinagh cannot continue until environmental studies have been under-taken. The Council will not spend any more valuable time on litigation, but instead will move forward with environmental assessments as soon as possible.

It is disappointing that it is going to take a bit longer to deliver a solution to the flooding hardship that the local community has to continue to endure. The Council deeply regrets that the expectations of the local community have been dashed. It was always the case that the works were being carried out to protect and keep the community safe. The legal challenge faced by this Council highlighted the legal obstacles that exist even when urgent works are required. Consideration should be given as to the transposition of EU law to apply to circumstances where such emergency interRoscommon County Council has been forced to stop flood relief works at vention is required’.

Lough Funshinagh following a recent High Court ruling. Pic: Mick McCormack

Caithaoirleach: ‘Abhorrent that works have ceased’ < DAN DOONER

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Joe Murphy, was scathing in his assessment of a recent High Court decision to prevent the flood relief works at Lough Funshinagh from progressing until further environmental studies take place. Cllr. Murphy said: “Following the decision of Mr. Justice Simons of the High Court on Wednesday and the legal rami-

fications set forth, Roscommon County Council will, in accordance with the order, follow the legal process. However I must voice my disdain at this situation. “Roscommon County Council acted for urgent humanitarian reasons to prevent flooding but accepts that there are further obligations under the environmental directives that the council must now comply with. It is abhorrent that these works have ceased and our concerns must lie with the people of Lough

Funshinagh and its surrounding areas. “The term environmentalists is not owned or limited to an organisation such as ‘Friends of the Irish Environment’. Generations of people around Lough Funshinagh nurtured and cared for this turlough long before there were any groups to “protect” it and through the installation of this overflow pipe we were still endeavoring to save wild life, flora and fauna together with keeping the community safe.

Saint Gregory of Tours

When he was a boy, his father was close to dying. Gregory prayed fervently to God for his recovery. When Gregory was asleep that night, his Guardian Angel appeared to him and told him to write the name of Jesus on a card and place it under his father’s pillow In the morning, Gregory told his mother about the message from his Guardian Angel. She told him to go ahead and do what he was told to do. Gregory put the name of Jesus on a card under his father’s pillow, when instantaneously his father rapidly recovered his health Gregory’s story of the name of Jesus on a card is directly from Heaven through his Guardian Angel, and we should use it and make it known to everyone who needs help. The Holy name of Jesus, Holy Water, Guardian Angels and Archangels Association

The Holy Name of Jesus Association – C/O Chris O’Gara, No 3, The Courtyard, Athleague, Co. Roscommon, Ireland. Please Please Telephone: 086 -22-55-029

email this to friends and family

I am hoping that the use of the Holy Name of Jesus will keep pepole’s health in check everywhere by invoking the Holy Name of Jesus.

preserve a copy in the family home

If people have success in using the Holy Name of Jesus Card, if you want to publish the story you can post it to the above address, to inspire other people to use the Holy Name of Jesus Card. Please Share this on Social Media. Please note that the source of this story on the Holy Name of Jesus was published by Tan Books in the USA.

“I want to refute any suggestion that the pause to these works is due to inefficiencies of the local authority. Roscommon County Council proceeded to act immediately under the Local Authorities (Works) Act 1949 as they understood the urgency of this humanitarian emergency and the need for this vital infrastructure. “As we consider the County Development Plan, we need to seriously set out how emergency works can be carried

out quickly and efficiently in similar situations. The legal challenge faced by the council highlighted the legal obstacles that exist even in emergency situations. “Again I reiterate, our priority must be to the people of Lough Funshinagh and that all required environmental assessments be expedited as a matter of urgency. I will work tirelessly with my council colleagues on this matter and would ask our Oireachtas Members and Ministers to do the same”.

Kilduff calls for change to Works Act Local Independent Councillor Donal Kilduff has told the Roscommon People that change of legislation is needed as local authorities face the effects of climate change. Speaking following the cessation of flood relief works at Lough Funshinagh following a recent High Court order, Cllr. Kilduff said: “Our friends and neighbours in Rahara have had a terrible time with the flooding of Lough Funshinagh and the way it has devastated their lives. “One would have to have their head in the sand not to see how badly this affects a community. We also have to acknowledge that this past year we have seen horrific floods and fires all over Europe, America, China, Siberia to name but a few. The year before it was Australia and the Amazon. It is clear now more than ever that climate change will necessitate urgent works on a more regular basis as emergencies become the new normal in society unfortunately”. Cllr. Kilduff said the situation in south Roscommon is “certainly the result of climate change” and the worsening conditions in the area around Lough Funshinagh has been a

“devastating experience” for residents. “The recent High Court challenge to our local authority’s efforts to solve this problem and save the community was a terrible blow to people’s morale, dashing hopes of relief before the winter - however, it also highlights the clear necessity to update the 1949 Local Authorities Works Act allowing for greater autonomy so local authorities and other authorities of the state can work together quickly and efficiently with clarity to tackle the many challenges that lie ahead,” he said. “It is extremely unfortunate that the complex interplay of EU directives and regulations, national legislation and NGOs has thwarted the good work being done locally on this occasion. We need a Local Authorities Works Act fit for the twenty-first century where climate change and the ability to respond quickly with autonomy is central to the act. We must not let a similar situation as has happened here occur again”. The Independent Councillor said that this may necessitate amendments to directives at EU level.

“I have no doubt that the recent weather induced emergencies throughout Europe will be sufficient to highlight the need for this throughout the European member states. “In the short-term, we need to see the Lough Funshinagh situation resolved. I am confident that Roscommon County Council will pursue this with determination to find a resolution that sees relief coming for the people of Rahara. I, and I’m sure all my colleagues will certainly support the Council in its efforts to do so,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople Pat Spillane

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

Michèal Lundy @lundycorofin

because his boy is finally coming home.

Alison O’Connor @alisonoconn

If Kerry and Tyrone is half as good as this pat Spillane and Sean Cavanagh debate, we’re in for a cracker

-You may have heard Ronaldo’s rejoining Manchester United...it got a mention or two in recent days!

-It was (well, at least in terms of drama and tension)

Piers Morgan @piersmorgan

Joe Brolly @JoeBrolly1993

How’s he going to hunt anyone down in Afghanistan given he’s just thrown in the towel and abandoned the country?

Good speech by the Taoiseach. Hit the important notes. There were days - weren’t there - when getting to this stage was just impossible to imagine. MM is absolutely correct - we, as a society, have been rather amazing. Big back claps all round! -We’re all loving Taoiseach Micheál after his flawless speech in which he banished the restrictions...

Highly entertaining game between Tyrone and David Clifford

Paul Treyvaud @PaulTreyvaud

-In full droll mode, Joe had lots to say (via Twitter) during the Kerry-Tyrone AllIreland senior football semi-final

He actually thinks he’s done a good job!!!

Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan

-Oops! (Him again)

As per Con Houlihan, House private. Need for rest.

Gavan Reilly @gavreilly RTE frantically calling Kieran Mulvey to mediate between Seán and Pat there -The exchanges between RTE pundits Sean Cavanagh and Pat Spillane prior to Saturday’s big game lit up Twitter... Gavan even suggested Roscommon native and renowned mediator Kieran Mulvey might be required!

--------

-Piers was not impressed with President Joe Biden’s lame speech on the night Kabul Airport was bombed (twice)

-The veteran journalist appears to have taken Kerry’s shock defeat with his usual sense of humour... Adam Savage @AdamSavage The most wonderful thing about #Ronaldo re-joining United, is that somewhere in Manchester tonight, Sir Alex is going to be sat with a giant glass of wine smiling from ear to ear

Micheál Martin

ADVERTORIAL - - - - - - - -

REGARI Recovery College returns with free mental health and wellbeing courses REGARI Recovery College have recently launched their upcoming autumn/winter 2021 prospectus with details of their range of free educational courses and workshops, which are all designed to promote mental health, wellbeing and recovery in these unprecedented times. REGARI (Roscommon and East Galway Advancing Recovery in Ireland) Recovery College is a community-based initiative that aims to understand mental health through education, collaboration, and conversation. A defining feature of REGARI is the approach it takes when developing and delivering modules. Each module is co-produced and delivered by people with lived experience of mental health challenges, family members, carers, people working in mental health, and others. The college continues to expand their curriculum, and this term, new courses include ‘Adjusting To Our New Normal’, ‘Negotiating Boundaries and Relationships’, ‘Transgenerational Trauma’ and ‘Emotional Regulation’ to name but a few.

REGARI Recovery College

Autumn/Winter Semester 2021 Roscommon Town (Vita House) *** Registration Date: Tuesday 14/09/2021 REGARI Recovery College In Regari Recovery College 2 - 4 PM ***

Autumn/Winter Semester 2021 Roscommon Town (Vita House)

*** Registration Date: Tuesday 14/09/2021 In Regari Recovery College 2 - 4 PM ***

Pictured are Amanda Hunt and Julie Fraser, REGARI Recovery College.

Courses are open to all – those who use services, staff, carers and members of the general public with an interest in mental health. There is a registration fee of just €5 and then all courses are free to attend. Registration for the courses is essential and anyone who would like to register or find out more information are welcome to come along

to the registration day taking place in Roscommon town (REGARI Recovery College, The Lodge, Athlone Road) on the 14th of September from 2 to 5 pm. For more, contact Amanda Hunt on 086-1304869 or email regarirecoverycollege@gmail. com. Please see timetable for further information on courses available.

*Registration fee of €5. Modules are then free to attend.

For more information please contact: Amanda Hunt on: 086 1304869

or Email: regarirecoverycollege@gmail.com *Registration fee of €5. Modules are then free to attend.

For more information please contact: Amanda Hunt on: 086 1304869

or Email: regarirecoverycollege@gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

The

D News page

Local women set impressive record in lake swim for Lough Ree RNLI Just before teatime on Wednesday last, Serena Friel and Karen Reynolds swam under the town bridge in Athlone to complete an amazing 32km swim, the entire length of Lough Ree, in 10 hours and 13 minutes, raising thousands of euro for Lough Ree RNLI in the process. Athlone women Serena and Karen enjoy a regular swim at Coosan Point in the shadow of the emerging Lough Ree RNLI boathouse which is due for completion next month. With a local community fundraising project ongoing the two swimmers decided to play their part and the ‘Lough Ree 32k Challenge’ was born. Setting off in foggy conditions from Lanesboro on Wednesday morning, Karen was first in the water for this relay swim. She and Serena alternated every hour on their way down the lake. The decision to delay

the challenge a few days due to weather patterns proved very wise and the swimmers enjoyed excellent conditions on the water throughout the swim. Large crowds of wellwishers and supporters gathered on the quayside in Athlone, in anticipation of their arrival. Just after 5 pm on Wednesday, accompanied by the Lough Ree RNLI volunteer crew on board the ‘Tara Scougall’ and the support flotilla, which had been alongside them all day, Serena Friel and Karen Delaney crossed the finish line in Athlone to loud applause. In completing the ‘Lough Ree 32k Challenge’ the women set a record that will take some beating. Following the record-breaking achievement, Serena thanked “swimming partner Karen, coach David Warby and all who supported the challenge in any way”.

Pictured is critically acclaimed author, Patrick deWitt.

Acclaimed author Patrick deWitt visits Arts Centre as part of Irish tour

Pictured are Serena Friel and Karen Reynolds, who recently completed a record-breaking 32km swim in aid of Lough Ree RNLI

Lough Ree RNLI Operations Manager Jude Kilmartin, said the charity was “most grateful to Serena and Karen for a terrific initiative which has

already raised over €6,000 for the charity” The Gofundme page remains open for donations at https://gofund. me/199d3d04.

Roz Purcell enjoys historic Roscommon! Former Miss Universe Ireland Roz Purcell paid a visit to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands recently and dropped into Roscommon on the way. During her whistle-stop tour, the popular model visited Athlone, Glasson and Bay Sports at Hodson Bay while also popping into the Claypipe Studio in Knockcroghery. She was then taken on a historic tour of Roscommon by local tour guide Marie Gillooly.

Model Roz Purcell pictured during a recent visit to Roscommon. Pic: Rozanna Purcell Instragram

This September, Roscommon Arts Centre is thrilled to present an evening with critically acclaimed author and screenwriter Patrick deWitt as part of a short Irish tour. DeWitt’s first book, Ablutions: Notes for a Novel (2009), was named a New York Times Editors’ Choice book. His second, The Sisters Brothers (2011), was shortlisted for the 2011 Man Booker Prize, the Scotiabank Giller Prize, the Rogers Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize (Winner) and the 2011 Governor General’s Award for English-language fiction (Winner). The novel also won the 2012 Stephen Leacock Award and DeWitt was shortlisted for the 2012 Walter Scott Prize for historical fiction. The Sisters Brothers was adapted as a film and released in 2018. Patrick’s third novel, Undermajordomo Minor (2015), was longlisted for the 015 Scotiabank Giller Prize and his most recent novel, French Exit (2018) was named as a shortlisted finalist for the 2018 Giller Prize. He wrote the screenplay for Sony Pictures 2020 film of the same name, which starred starred Michelle Pfeiffer as Frances Price, who was nominated for several awards for her role including, most re-

cently a Golden Globe. Born in British Columbia, DeWitt now resides in Portland, Oregon from where earlier this year, as part of our LIVE Network programme, the writer undertook a short virtual residency at Roscommon Arts Centre. ‘Yours Sincerely – Patrick deWitt’ saw the writer correspond via weekly letters to members of the public over a six-week period. Project participants were invited to write back, with many penning weekly letters to the author, telling him of their own lives, experiences and the county they live in. The project culminated in a virtual meeting between DeWitt and the project participants and it is hoped that while visiting Roscommon, the author will have the opportunity to meet up with the group in person. This September his Irish tour ‘Exits with Patrick deWitt’ will see the author discuss French Exit and the theme of migration in his work, with LIVE Network Development Officer Dani Gill. Tickets for this event are now on sale at just €15, but capacity is extremely limited due to current Government guidelines and so early booking is highly advisable via www.roscommonartscentre.ie/090-6625824.

Flying the flag! As the build-up to the All-Ireland Senior Football Final intensifies, Mayo supporter, Joe Rogers, Dalton Terrace, Ballaghaderreen, has been busy preparing his garden for the big day!

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

Your weekly writing fix: online creative writing course with Gerry Boland Local author and poet Gerry Boland has announced details of his autumn online writing workshops. Gerry, who ran a popular weekly writing workshop in The Dock in Carrick-onShannon prior to Covid, has moved his workshops online. “Although I miss the weekly meetups, I have become familiar with the various online platforms and find that the workshops work just as well onscreen as they did when we were meeting face-to-face in a room”, says Gerry. “They are different, there’s no way around that, and they don’t suit everyone, but my sense is that most people have adapted and are now reasonably familiar with onscreen meet-ups. One huge positive is that someone living and working in Dublin, Cork, London, or even Berlin can attend one of my courses. I actually just got a booking from an Irish writer currently living in Germany!” Gerry’s course allows people to meet up with other writers in a friendly and creative online environment. Participants will be able to satisfy their writing impulse with a weekly writing fix (during each session there’ll be an uninter-rupted half-hour of quiet, offscreen time to write), and will also be

introduced to a new poem every week to read, analyse, and discuss. In addition to the above, each week, a different participant will share ‘A Book That I Keep Revisiting’. This is a 15 - 20 minute slot in which you’ll get to hear about a work you may or may not be familiar with, that a participant admires greatly. The chosen work can be in any genre. Please note that there is no obligation to participate in this section, so don’t be put off booking the course because of it. Additionally, there will be a short writing exercise each week. These exercises are primarily to fire up the imagination, but can often act as a launching pad for a longer piece. The course, starting in September and ending in November, will consist of ten creative writing workshops, each two hours long. Workshops run from 10 am -12 pm on Saturdays and Sundays (September 18th/19th – November 20th/21st), and 6.30 - 8.30 pm on Monday evenings (September 20th – November 22nd). The course fee is €80. Gerry Boland is an author and a poet, who has had nine books published. The latest is his collection of short stories, ‘The Far Side of Happiness’,

--------

Pictured is Gerry Boland, local author and poet.

which was published in 2018 by Arlen House. He has many years’ experience leading writing workshops, and until the pan-demic and subsequent lockdown, he was running a popular writ-

ing group out of The Dock Arts Centre in Carrick-on-Shannon. Book your place by phoning Gerry on 087-6397557 or by emailing gerry. boland@gmail.com.

newsbriefs ‘Down the Hatch’ celebrates 25 years with fundraising Golf Classic To celebrate their 25th anniversary in business at Down the Hatch in Roscommon town, Seamus Hayden and Larry Brennan are holding a fundraising Golf Classic in aid of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice at Roscommon Golf Club on Friday and Saturday, September 24th and 25th. Teams of four, ladies or gents or mixed teams are welcome at €200 team which includes a buffet meal. There will be valuable prizes on offer and the presentation of prizes will take place at the clubhouse at 9 pm on Saturday 25th. Seamus Hayden says that they are looking forward to a successful venture for a great cause. “We decided to hold this Classic to mark 25 years in business and with the new Hospice building in Roscommon town due to open on October 1st, it’s a cause that we are very proud to be able to support. People can play either Friday or Saturday and we are hoping that it will be a great social event too. “The timesheet is filling up and we are urging people to book a tee time as soon as they can to avoid disappointment and we are hoping to meet a lot of old friends over that weekend”. You can book a team by email by contacting desmahon09@gmail.com or through the time-sheet posted in Roscommon clubhouse. A reminder that the last tee time is at 3.30 pm.

ADVERTORIAL - - - - - - - -

Great demand for RWN textile upcycling training in Roscommon Town and Monksland Roscommon Women’s Network in partnership with GRETB is delighted with the interest expressed in their textile upcycling training courses this autumn. Such is the demand for places that the courses are oversubscribed, and a waiting list now applies. Starting mid-September, participants in Roscommon Town and Monksland will discover how to identify which fabrics are suitable for upcycling, learn how to deconstruct a garment, pick up new cutting and pattern making skills as well as machine sewing techniques all while learning about the effects of textile waste on the environment. With over 2,700 litres of water required to make one cotton shirt and discarded non-biodegradable fabrics sitting in landfill for up to 200 years, reusing textiles and halting the march of fast fashion will have a huge impact on these environmental statistics. Due to the demand for places on the Textile Upcycling Training Course, RWN is encouraging registration of interest in future training courses around the county for next spring. To contact Roscommon Women’s Network, phone 094-9621690, text 086-809 9154 or email mhourigan@rwn.ie. You can also message us via Roscommon Women’s Network or CycleUp Facebook pages. This training is part of the Roscommon Women’s Network Strategic Direction as outlined in the RWN Strategic Statement 2019-2024. The idea for this work initially came from the RWN charity shop volunteers who wanted to do something to combat the increasing textile waste from charity shops and the growing issue of fast fashion. In response, RWN sourced funding to run a pilot textile Upcycling Training Project at their base in Castlerea, which had the support of Roscom-

mon County Council (LAPN), Patagonia, GRETB Community Education and the Rediscovery Centre in Dublin as well as St. Angela’s College NUI Galway, who completed an evaluation of the project. Based on the success and learnings of its initial Pilot Textile Upcycling Training Project in 2019, RWN applied for the EPA Green Enterprise Fund and the Women’s Environmental Community Activation Network (WECAN) project was awarded this funding to continue training around the county reaching out to communities and schools through upcycling and repair workshops facilitated by local trainees and project participants, as well as developing the social enterprise in continuing to produce high quality, upcycled textile items for sale Trainees from the initial training that took place in Castlerea have formed an Upcycling Group, making high-quality upcycled items under the CycleUp brand and producing beautiful fashion, giftware and homeware items available through the CycleUp online shop (rwn.ie/store), developed in conjunction with the Community Foundation for Ireland RTÉ Does Comic Relief Fund. One item in particular was in demand after Minister Simon Harris posted an Instagram image of an Owl that the CycleUP group made for him, praising the initiative and in particular the work of the volunteers. CycleUp also takes commissions from organisations to produce environmentally friendly items such as souvenirs, aprons and bags. Earlier this year, the CycleUp Group were delighted to win in the category of Sustainable Development through Education at the National AONTAS awards This project is funded by the EPA’s Green Enterprise programme, an initiative of the National Waste Prevention Programme.

RWN Training Services

are Now Recruiting for our full time

QQI Level 5 Retail Courses QQI Level 5 Computer Courses For more information or to book your place, Phone: 094 9621690 Text 087 2718118 Email: training@rwn.ie or

Call in to: Unit 6, The Old Mill, Castlerea

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

FRANK BRANDON Keano’s talk with Neville was great ‘quack’! FRANK BRANDON’S

Our man Frank on Roy Keane’s interview with Gary Neville, the sad demise of a duck called Keith, the resumption of local sports, Richael and Team Ireland in Tokyo, and the return of a certain Portuguese footballer to Old Trafford… Regular readers of this column will know that modern smart phones drive me silly. I know absolutely nothing about apps or downloads or podcasts. I am not, nor ever will be, on Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat or any of that stuff. Last week, when a lad tried to explain some simple technological data to me, I told him he might as well be talking to the wall. However, by some miracle, bits and pieces keep coming up on my phone, and in the week gone by, two items that I found most interesting arrived into my little simple world. The first was an interview by Roy Keane, over an hour long, with his old teammate and friend Gary Neville as part of a series called The Overlap. The sec-

ond was a tale about two Keiths in Wigan, one of whom was a real person, and the other who turned out to be a deceased duck. Anyway, as we all know, you either love or hate ‘Keano’, and I make no apology for saying that I love him. If there is a better football pundit out there, I have yet to see him. His wide-ranging interview covered everything from his nights out drinking as a young player with both Nottingham Forest and Manchester United, to his fall out with Mick McCarthy in Saipan, touching as well on his dislike of players who need five cars (something he could not understand), and his family back home in Cork, where the advice his father gave him as a young League of Ireland player was simply to ‘get stuck in!’ In typical Keane fashion, he didn’t mince his words, and it was the most riveting hour’s entertainment I’ve seen in a while. I was going to say it was riveting television, but as I watched it on the aforementioned smart phone, I don’t know what to call it. Anyway, if it crops up anywhere, make sure you watch it – it’s a great show. Then the story about the two Keiths appeared from somewhere, and I have to say, it was great quack! Apparently a Wigan supporter called

Richael and Team Ireland have done us proud! Back to Tokyo: it was heartwarming to see so much support and media coverage for Richael Timothy, right, the Ballymoe girl representing Team Ireland in the cycling at the Paralympics. She has competed brilliantly in two different events – the Women’s Individual Pursuit, and the 500-metre Time Trial – and by the time you read this, she will have taken part in the Road Time Trial. Medal or no medal, she has really done everybody proud. At the time of writing, we have three gold medals - Jason Smyth, Ellen Keane and Eve McCrystal – and two silver medals – KG Dunlevy and Nicole Turner, and one bronze – Gary O’Reilly. So whatever happens from here, it has been a very successful trip for our Paralympians.

unique take on life ...

Rob tweeted his great sorrow after a friend told him that Keith was dead. Rob then assumed Keith was another fan, Keith Valentine, who has been battling cancer for some time, and passed on his condolences. However, wires had very much been crossed, as the deceased Keith was a duck, belonging to Daryl Ravden. Mr. Valentine, very much alive though still battling lung cancer, took to Facebook, thanking all the people for their messages of sympathy. He said it was nice to know how much he was being missed, but assured everyone he’d not popped his clogs yet. He said he must be the first person in history to get messages of sympathy before he died. Sadly, the duck had really passed on to duck heaven (or maybe some Wigan restaurant!). Wigan Athletic honoured the bird’s memory by inviting their supporters to pay their respects to Keith the duck at half-time in their game with Portsmouth on Saturday, and displayed his image on the big screen. Wigan won the game 1-0 and the scorer Stephen Humphreys dedicated his goal to the unfortunate duck. Anyway, all’s well that ends well, as the real Keith and a guest have been invited for a hos-

Roy Keane

pitality package at the next home game against Doncaster. Lunch will be included but the club fanzine has said not to serve duck, as that would be quackers. All I can hope is they get no red cards for fowl play!

Local sports make a welcome return One of the great things about living in a place like Creggs, or any other little village, is the pride we can have in our local sports clubs, no matter whether it’s soccer, Gaelic, rugby, hockey or athletics. Here in Creggs, we are fortunate to have both a vibrant GAA club and rugby club, and I have to say that after eighteen months of almost total wipeout, it’s great to be able to follow our teams again. On Saturday evening, our Junior B footballers took on Éire Óg in their final league game. It was a hugely entertaining game, played by two evenly matched teams, although the Loughlynn side came out on top. I always think that junior football is nearly more important than the higher grades, because it gives players that might otherwise get no games a chance to play and enjoy themselves. It can be a great place for young lads who are starting out to learn the game, and, for lads who are coming to the end of their careers, it’s an opportunity to wind down at a pace they are comfortable with. Both teams had such a mixture of players, and it all added up to a hugely enjoyable evening in Fuerty. It goes without saying that the inevitable post-mortem on the game took place over a few quiet pints, and it was good to have it back. Sunday saw me heading off to Monivea, where our rugby team was playing the locals in a Cawley Cup match. While we won the game, the result was almost immaterial; it

was just so good to be able to stand on the side of a pitch, enjoy the fresh air, and revel in the fact that things were more or less back to normal. Throw in the fact that thousands of people are being allowed to Croke Park, and you have to side with the people in the music and entertainment industry, who query why theirs is the only industry that still remains closed. As one of their spokesmen said recently, 40,000 could go to the All-Ireland final, but if there was a bit of music in Croker, only 500 could attend. It just makes no sense.

Finally for this week .... Apologies to anyone who doesn’t like sport this week…but as a Man Utd fan since 1963, I cannot hide my delight at the fact that Cristiano Ronaldo is coming back to us. It can only help to revitalise the club. As a young lad, he won three Premier League titles for us with his goals, and in my opinion, he was nearly singlehandedly responsible for the winning of the Champions League in 2008. People say that at 36 years of age he is past it, but if ever a man keeps himself in remarkable physical condition, it is the Portuguese superstar. Welcome home Cristiano, it’s great to have you back! ‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

McDermott welcomes funding for lighting, road resurfacing Cllr. Marty McDermott has confirmed that he has secured funding for lighting in Slevinagee, Golf Links Road, Roscom-mon. Cllr. McDermott said the need for such lighting had been raised with him by residents during and since the local election campaign. “Residents pointed out to me that there was an urgent need for such lighting, citing safety concerns. I raised the matter with the County Council and am delighted to confirm that I have secured funding for provision of the required lighting”. Cllr. McDermott expressed thanks to the relevant Council staff for their cooperation and courtesy. Cllr. McDermott has also welcomed the completion of road resurfacing works at Coolshaghtena/Lisnanarriagh L6115 and Moneen L6110. He said: “I would like to thank the County Council and the relevant engineer for their support on this important issue”.

Cllr. Marty McDermott has welcomed confirmation of funding for lighting in Slevinagee, Golf Links Road, Roscommon.

Second annual Mule Lanark Group sale at Tuam Mart on September 10th After last year’s successful sale and many buyers coming home happy, the Mule Lanark Group are holding their second annual sale in Tuam Mart on Friday, September 10th, at 5 pm. The sale will consist of over 900 mule lambs and 250 mule hoggets. All sheep at the sale will be genuine farmer’s stock and will all be on the various vaccination programs. The ewe lambs are coming from flocks that have been vaccinated against enzoabortion for the last number of years. Tuam Mart is ideally located on the N17/M18 motorway (H54 RR50), which makes it very accessible to any farmer who wants to purchase quality and healthy mule sheep.

newsbriefs Astro turf pitch for hire! Bookings are now being accepted for the Roscommon Town Astro Turf pitch at Lisnamult for autumn/winter. Slots currently available. To find out more, contact 086 - 8538519.

County Childcare Committee: Learner Fund Bursary The Department of Children, Equality, Disabil-ity, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) has now launched the Leaarner Fund Bursary for Grad-uates and Childminders in the Early Learning and Care sector who are registered with Tusla and hold a Level 7/8/9 (Graduates) or Level 5/6 (Childminders) award on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). The bursary amount for eligible Childminders or Graduates is €750. For further details, criteria and application forms, please see the Roscommon County Childcare Committee website (roscommonchildcare.ie), Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. You can also contact a member of the team on 094-9622540 or email aine.mannion@roscommonchildcare.ie/ martina. towey@roscommonchildcare.ie Completed applications should be sent to Roscommon County Childcare Committee CLG, Knock Road, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Otherwise applications can be emailed; Graduate applications should be emailed to martina. towey@roscommonchildcare.ie, and Childminding Applications should be emailed to aine.mannion@ roscommonchildcare.ie. The closing date for applications is October 1st.

Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Happy days are here again!

Parents: What’s stopping you having ‘the talk’ with your kids? I don’t know about you readers, but when I was in school, my entire sex education consisted of a lovely nun called Sr. Martina advising any girl in the class considering ‘sitting on a boy’s lap’, to first ‘place a sheet of newspaper on it to keep you safe’. Confusing or what? Well-meaning and lovely though Sr. Martina was, providing sex education was not her job – that particular responsibility lay firmly with my mother and father. However, like many parents of their day, they wimped out, meaning the newspaper ‘tip’ covered it all. Now while this country has what I believe to be a shameful history of sex education, both in the home and in the school curriculum, I do agree that things have progressed, but not by much. When I read that a report published by the National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG) revealed that ‘a fifth of Irish teenage boys do not believe

it’s always necessary to gain consent before engaging in sexual activity with someone’, I knew our young people were in trouble. In fact, given these findings, it’s abundantly clear to me that, when it comes to their kids, many parents are still dodging those safe sex education responsibilities; and that’s a disgrace. While I understand this dereliction of duty in providing knowledge regarding safe sex could be due to feelings of embarrassment and awkwardness on the part of parents, as an imperfect mother who provided age-appropriate sex education for my own girls, my response is…get over it. Don’t leave it to the teacher, just grow up, do your job and do right by your kids, kids who when specifically asked about ‘verbal consent’ only ‘58 percent of males’ and ‘67 percent of females’ said it was ‘necessary when participating in sexual acts’. Come on folks, we teach our

children to walk, talk and pee in the loo etc., so why does it seem so difficult for some parents (not all), to address the nitty-gritties around something as vital as sex education? Why is it difficult for us to teach our toddlers about their own body parts, and then, as they grow older and develop both mentally and physically, why can’t we incorporate compassionate, loving and appropriate conversations around safety, respect and consent? These conversations should vitally incorporate and include same-sex couples. While I’m enjoying the view from my high horse, can I also add that according to shocking statistics from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre’s data ‘nearly 20 cases of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in children under the age of 14 have been recorded so far this year’. This tells me that 13-yearolds – I repeat – 13-year-olds

– are possibly being coerced into having sex with their peers or worse, are being abused by adults. This both sickens and frightens the life out of me, because a 13-year-old child cannot possibly be in an emotional/ physical state to give their consent to have sex. In addition, the law of this land states that an individual must be 17 years of age in order to be able to give their full consent to engage in a sexual act. Have I sufficiently opened your eyes or are you still wimping out on having ‘the talk’ with your child? Well, for the wusses who are reneging on their parental responsibilities, I suppose you can take solace in the fact that a sexual consent education programme (launched in secondlevel schools this week), will address the issue for you. Yep, to put it bluntly, the teacher will, once again, do your job!

Well colour me happy, Roscommon is set to return to normal! Okay, I know this announcement comes with a warning that the epidemiological situation remains, wait for it, ‘manageable’, but it seems that happy days are here again folks! Yep, the role of NPHET is about to be ‘scaled back’, we’re on course to return to the workplace on the 20th of this month, live music at weddings is due to resume, and Communions and Confirmations are also planned to take place. With that in mind, crack open the emergency bottle of wine, break out the expensive Green and Black’s choccies, because all going well, our homes will no longer resemble the insides of a high-security prison wing. Neither will we feel forced to genuflect before a finger-wagging Dr. Tony Holohan, right, reprimanding us on the 6.01 News for committing those mortal Covid sins… again! However, I will miss the almost carnivalesque atmosphere generated by the lovely George Lee, who as part of his ‘war on Covid’ effort, assumes his ‘tut-tut’ face, and delivers his piece to camera (PTC) in such a way you can almost taste the imminent arrival of Armageddon! Someone give that man a leading role in the Christmas panto!

What women want!

I was listening to a radio station the other day (not sure which one) and the subject being discussed focused around what turned women on, as in what came top of our list when choosing a mate. Or, if we were already in a committed relationship, what was it our partners did that made us happy. For singletons hoping for a ‘hook up’ it was a full head of hair, good fashion sense, confidence, maturity and a sense of humour that topped the list of ‘future partner’ musthaves. For those of us already manacled together, things like cooking a meal, giving us compliments, going on ‘fun dates’ and communication were key factors to their long-lasting happiness. Now girls, while it’s clear that superficial qualities like looks and chemistry are clear indicators of compatibility, for me (if anyone cares), listening and putting things back in their right place are part of my essentials. I will not go unheard and I cannot do untidiness. That being said, these days if he manages to get me the birthday/Christmas present I specifically asked for (not hinted at, I don’t do subtlety) without punching the air while displaying the thrilled sense of achievement of a bungee jumper, I’m happy… kinda!

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

500,000 Covid vaccinations administered in the west and north-west so far Vaccination centres in the West and North West areas have hit the milestone of delivering 500,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccines since the first clinic opened at the end of February. Paul Hooton, Saolta Executive Lead for the rollout of the vaccination programme in the west and north west, said: “This is a fantastic achievement and a tribute to the incredible team of staff we have working at our six vaccination centres and a number of satellite centres in the region. “I would like to thank all our vaccinators, pharmacists, site managers,

registration and administration staff, the student nurses and the many support staff including security, cleaners and wellness checkers. “We are also indebted to the members of the Defence Forces who have provided invaluable and immeasurable support to the vaccination programme, along with the many volunteers from the Civil Defence, Order of Malta, St. John Ambulance and the Irish Red Cross. “And to all the people of Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo and Galway, I would like to say

thank you for your overwhelming support and in the early days for your patience when we were still figuring out the queuing system and timings. Your co-operation was very much appreciated. “Being able to provide the Covid-19 vaccine to so many people and to play some role in moving on from the pandemic has been an absolute privilege. “There are still plenty of opportunities to get the vaccine and we are running walk-in clinics every week to make it as easy as possible”.

€270,000 in CLÁR funding for local projects Projects in County Roscommon are set to benefit from €270,000 in CLÁR programme funding, announced recently by Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys. The Minister announced nationwide funding of €4.2 million with five local national schools and two local projects amongst those to benefit. Camcloon National School in Moore will receive €50,000 for landscaped outdoor play areas and exercise equipment while Clonown National School has been allocated €20,000 for public lighting and footpaths for disabled access.

Tara Killilea pictured with Covid-19 vaccinator Therese Flanagan. --------

Pictured is Minister Simon Harris TD with lecturers Dr. Elaine Mooney, Helen Maguire, Rachel Hastings and Grace Winters along with College President (Acting) Dr. Edel McSharry during a recent visit by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to St. Angela’s College, Sligo to explore further accessibility to higher education for all and to learn of St. Angela’s plans for a safe return to college this September. Rachel Hastings is a past pupil of the Convent of Mercy in Roscommon.

ADVERTORIAL - - - - - - - -

Carers’ Course at Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar is currently offering a Carers’ Course which includes Special Needs Assisting. The course is QQI Certified Level 5 and will run from September to May taking place each day from 9.40 am to 1.15 pm. This course is designed for recent school leavers or adults. We offer an opportunity to adults wishing to upskill or change their career path to return to education. This can lead directly to skilled employment or can be an alternative route to higher or further education. The course includes the following modules: Care Skills, Special Needs Assisting, Care Support, Care of the Older Person,

Safety & Health at Work, Anatomy & Physiology, Infection Prevention & Control, Work Experience, Children with Additional Needs and Communications. As part of the course, students will complete Manual Handling and Cardiac First Responder Training. Work Experience is an integral part of the course and requires the candidates to be Garda vetted. Students who complete the course will have a fantastic opportunity to find work in their chosen sector as a carer or in the area of Special Needs Assisting. Students can take all the modules to receive a full Healthcare Support Award or can receive certification

in individual modules. For non-medical cardholders there is a €200 DES charge payable at the start of the course and €50 QQI certification fee payable in March. Medical cardholders are exempt from these charges. There is a course fee of €100 to include cardiac First Responder Training and Manual and Patient Handling Training. Students can apply to SUSI for a grant to complete the course. Further information about this grant can be obtained on www.susi.ie. Students who successfully complete the course will have the qualifications and skills necessary to take up employment as healthcare workers, providing

personal care in residential and non-residential settings and in clients’ homes. Graduates also work in hospitals, nursing homes, training centres, community settings or special needs assisting. Eligible graduates may also progress to higher education. Application forms and

further details can be obtained on the school website www.colaistemhuire. org or by contacting the school at 090-6624740. Early application is advised as places are limited. Alternatively applicants can call to the school and meet with us by appointment.

Meanwhile, St. Mary’s National School is set to receive €47,000 for a pedestrian path while Croghan National School has been allocated funding for an accessible play area and Dangan NS will see improvements to street lighting. Ballymoe and District Angling Club has been awarded €50,000 to provide a jetty to the River Suck and Enterprise Kiltullagh, a community development company in Ballinlough has also received funding to extend the looped walk and exercise equipment at Lough O’Flynn. Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan welcomed the announcement this week: “We are fortu-nate to have

such proactive teams within our local authority to support local groups who apply for this funding at a national level. For groups who would like to find out more, get in touch with my office on 087-9400383.” Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy also welcomed the announcement. “The projects will provide and improve safety infrastructure such as footpaths, public lighting, traffic calming measures and car parking facilities. This measure also continues to support projects that help adapt the environs of schools and community facilities to help meet challenges arising from the pandemic,” he said.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Winds of change needed... in how regional tourism is promoted It’s over 30 years since I first drove a car around the famous Ring of Kerry. It was quite a challenge for a young driver like me, one who was not accustomed to such twists and turns on what are narrow tracks – not to mention the never-ending distractions of the cliff edges and the vistas down below. It was a memorable experience. For that very first summer visit to the Kingdom, my companions were four former classmates from the old ‘Tech’ in Lanesborough. I was test-driving a Mazda 626 for a motoring column I was writing in the Cavan Leader newspaper. We drove almost the entire length of the western seaboard that week – long before they paid somebody half a fortune to market it as the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’. I can confirm it was also very wild at that time (as were we) – and I’m not just talking about the landscapes. It was an exhaustive drive, and, apart from having to eject one Ballyleague man from the driver’s seat at one of the worst of the bends, we survived the experience. This week I returned to Kerry with my own family for a somewhat more relaxed journey around the ring and a few other parts of the county. We drove to Dingle, Valentia Island, Derrynane, Kenmare, Sneem, Tralee and Killarney. The place was mobbed. Arriving at the marina in Dingle, I was a bit shocked to see such a heaving throng of people on the road – my first occasion to be within such a group since the Covid-19 lockdowns ended. To be truthful, it made you think twice before you even got out of the car to explore. It was in Tralee when this whole vexed issue of tourism, how it’s promoted, and how the money is spent by those in authority at national level, came to mind once again. I know it’s an argument that has many supporters in the tourism business in our own part of the country, and I don’t mind saying that it’s something that annoys me greatly when I see the efforts being made by others to try and put their own little place on the map. In case anybody thinks there’s a rant on the way about Kerry tourism, nothing could be further from the truth. I have been in Kerry enough times to see the scale of the investment business people there have put in over the last 50 years – and it’s quite incredible. A simple drive from the town centre in Killarney to the gates of Muckross House will provide evidence of the huge investment poured into this industry – new hotel after new hotel, guesthouse after guesthouse – all beautifully designed and all heaving with tourists in high summer. The Gleneagle Hotel, on its own, seems to have grown and expanded in ten different directions since the last time I was here, and I know for a fact that there were little or no government grants available to make this happen. The developers and the landowners had to go into the bank in Killarney and make a business case for their loans and extensions. They did their homework well because their investment is now being repaid in bucket-loads – even at the end of a most difficult year. My quarrel is not with the industry in Kerry, but with the people who decide at national level where and when regional investment should be made in terms of developing new attractions and promoting new parts of the country where the tourists are not thronging in their thousands.

In Tralee, I couldn’t help but notice the success, for example, of the Blennerville Windmill tourism attraction – promoted extensively all over the place with signage (and online) as part of the Wild Atlantic Way – tagged as Ireland’s largest working windmill and Kerry’s model railway. It seems to me that thousands and thousands of euro have been invested by the tourism authorities at regional and national level – quite separate to the windmill management itself – and the result is a huge boost in tourism numbers for the windmill and the Tralee area. The blurb for the Tralee site on its promotional material raised another eyebrow or two. It states: ‘Blennerville Windmill stands as the dominant landmark in Tralee Bay – where the town of Tralee meets the Dingle Peninsula. It was authentically restored to

‘Three weeks ago I stood in Elphin here in Roscommon and listened to Barry Beirne and the hard-working volunteers of the local windmill committee as they talked about their struggles to try and promote their own windmill on the edge of the town’. Our columnist Ciaran, in Elphin.

full working order in the 1980s. It is the only windmill along Ireland’s Atlantic Way and is the largest working windmill in Ireland’. Three weeks ago I stood in Elphin and listened to Barry Beirne and the hard-working volunteers of the local windmill committee as they talked about their struggles to try and promote their windmill on the edge of the town. Built around 1730, this building is recognised as the oldest operational windmill in the country – even older than Blenerville. The restoration work done in the 1990s was absolutely spectacular and any visit to the top floor of the building will confirm the fantastic nature of the workmanship and unique design – in a building recognised as the only remaining working windmill of its kind in the west of Ireland today. The local committee are doing their absolute best to promote the centre – and the mill was busy with callers on the day I visited – but the committee is still working in a voluntary capacity and are adamant that they should have a manager and staff there in the key tourism months to welcome visitors and show them around this majestic site. With some good help from Roscommon LEADER Partnership, Roscommon County Council and other

agencies in recent months, they are now on the way to building a new coffee shop, yet when you speak to the volunteers, you get the sense that they need support at national level to make this project really come to fruition and reach its true potential. They need the leg up that Blennerville already gets in Tralee in terms of promotion and marketing at national level – and they need it quickly. Furthermore, the Elphin committee have what I consider to be one of the most basic of claims for fair treatment in another key area – they are seeking support in the payment of the annual insurance premium for the site. Like so many other tourism operators, they face a steep premium payment every year – yet they are a not-for-profit group and are working in a relatively low-key risk area when it comes to insurance. They must surely be entitled to support. An old friend of mine in tidy towns circles has long campaigned for the biggest insurance companies in Ireland (who are paid millions by public bodies to insure their buildings every year) to come together and support not-for-profit community groups with a onefor-all style policy discount scheme so that they can concentrate their own funds instead on maintenance and painting, etc. Maybe one of these days somebody will listen. Apart from the fascinating elements of the visit to the windmill, I found something far more extraordinary across the road from the site when I visited recently. There is only one word to describe the new park that has now been developed there – and that word is UNIQUE. It’s a real gem for visitors and locals – a new woodland park with up to 5,000 native trees, stone paths and trails, four ponds, multiple seats and resting places, over 500 pollinators, wild meadow flowers, tunnels for the kids and fruit trees, as well as a tarmacaded car park at the front. I think it’s actually something that is going to win national awards for its biodiversity and wildlife in years to come. Barry Beirne and the committee should really take a bow for the tremendous work they have already done here. Bloody hard work it was too, and there’s more of that to come. This is why I believe that committees like the one in Elphin deserve far greater support from the national authorities when it comes to completing their voluntary work. Granted, Elphin does not have 23,000 people living there (like Tralee) and is not quite on the US Tour bus trail, but it never will be unless it is singled out for extra support and assistance. The sooner this is realised, the better. * It would be remiss of me to conclude without acknowledging the marvellous work of the late, great Cyril McDermott at the Elphin Windmill, and on so many other key community projects in the area. I met Cyril many times on visits to the town in recent years and I used to joke with him that he was never at home – so numerous were his activities and volunteering roles. I know his colleagues miss Cyril greatly and intend to honour his name in a memorial so that his great work here will never be forgotten. RIP Cyril.

WRITE TO CIARAN!

Email People Columnist Ciaran at ciaranmullooly@gmail.com

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

PEOPLE PLATFORM Your say, our say….in everyone’s favourite local newspaper!

A 21st century plan that people of Ballaghaderreen must grasp < MICHAEL SCALLY

Roscommon County Council are to be commended for the Public Realm Plan for the town of Ballaghaderreen, which will be voted on by the six elected county councillors for the Boyle Electoral Area this September. This plan has been rigorously debated at many public meetings over the past few months, where everybody got their say about its overall impact. All organisations have had their say, and the consensus is that its implementation will greatly enhance the appearance of the town, and will alleviate the traffic congestion and gridlock that presently makes the town a traffic hazard for both drivers and pedestrians alike. The congestion at key arteries in the town has been a daily occurrence since the opening of the town bypass. Heavy lorries now must use the Sligo Road entrance to deliver

their goods to the factories on the old N5 road. We cannot reject three million euro of public funding, funding which will bring our town into the 21st century, leading to many more shoppers and visitors alike coming here. The congestion at key points will be removed, footpaths that have gone unrepaired since the heavy frosts of 2010 will be replaced by maintenance-free granite slabs, and proper parking spaces will be provided for safe entry and exit. Ballaghaderreen is no longer a market town, as envisioned in the 19th century when the horse and cart was the only means of transport. The two bus stops will be relocated to safer posi-tions at The Shambles and Pound Street, where Transport Infrastructure Ireland have made provision for at least one bus shelter. Provision will be provided for a number of key designated stop-offs for the delivery

of goods for all businesses in the town’s core area. The central plaza in The Square will be used for market traders, and also for the many celebrations and events throughout the year. Designated parking areas (adjacent to the Bank of Ireland and chemist’s) for people with impaired mobility is provided for. Ten slim trees will compliment the present oak tree in The Square to provide an all-year-round visual enhancement of that area. The provision of a number of permanent seats will enable visitors to relax and enjoy their shopping experience. Property values will increase as opportunities arise for new businesses to open there. The new one-way traffic flow for Cathedral Street and College Street will eliminate the pre-sent chaos that now prevails at certain times of the school year. This is our last chance to avail of the scarce public monies that

other towns would grab if given the opportunity. Roscommon County Council is to be commended for the substantial funding they have given to business premises’ and other dwellings over the past three years for painting their front facades, which greatly enhanced the overall appearance of the town. Our town should not again be deprived of the opportunity to avail of what is a tremendous, 21st century plan, a plan that has been painstakingly designed by awardwinning town planners. There is no place for street politics and negative opportunists who have other agendas, and who have no alternative plans for making our plan a better place to live in. We owe it to our future generations to live and work in a town that we can be proud of. Shops close down due to family retirements and other reasons, but we must not allow any more

leakage from our town. Our Chamber of Commerce collapsed through non-involvement and apathy. There are many exciting developments coming to our town due to the vision and voluntary initiative in our community. There is a very bright future ahead for our town, with many creative jobs in the

pipeline. Every sporting, voluntary, and community organisation is fully in support of this project, and I am calling on our six elected county councillors to support Roscommon County Council’s effort to kick-start our recovery, which we so badly need. This is an opportunity that should be grabbed so that this badly-needed project

can commence in 2022. Misleading statements about our town closing down if this enhancement is carried out discourages people from coming here to shop and spend their money. *Michael Scally is a former member of Roscommon County Council

‘Royal postbox insignia an unwelcome reminder’ Castleplunkett, Co. Roscommon Dear Editor, A new tourist information sign erected in Castlerea, Co. Roscommon featuring a number of local places to visit would be a welcome addition to the town, except for one piece of information regarding the postbox with the Royal Crown and the letters ER attached. The notice reads as follows: ‘The Royal insignia of Edward VII reminds us that the post-box was installed before Ireland gained freedom’. Maybe a change of wording to ‘before partition’ would be better? I wrote a piece in a national newspaper a few years ago about the number of postboxes in this part of Ireland with the letters ER or VR still in use – the only change that was made was that they were painted green. Irish people don’t need a reminder of England’s rule on this land… The tourist information sign in Castlerea.

Yours sincerely, Henry Hughes

Members of the Roscommon team that reached the 1962 All-Ireland final took part in a Jimmy Magee All-Stars charity game in Knockcroghery in the early 1990s. Pictured back row, left to right: Christy Grogan, John S Kelly, Bernie Kyne (RIP), Aidan Brady (RIP), Tony Kenny, Gerry Reilly (RIP), Seamus Keane, Ronnie Creaven, Aidan Kellegher. Front row, left to right: Eamon Curley, John Lynch (RIP), Gerry O’Malley (RIP), Tony Whyte, Brian Mitchell, Peter Watson, Tom Turley. The little boy in front is Ger Michael Grogan (RIP).

Death of Gerry Reilly, member of Roscommon 1962 team The death has occurred of former Roscommon footballer Gerard (Gerry) Reilly, a native of Rooskey, Co. Roscommon. The late Mr. Reilly, of Adamstown, Templemore, Co. Tipperary and formerly of Rooskey, Co. Roscommon, died on Friday, 27th of August 2021. He was a retired member of An Garda Siochana. In his youth he was an accom-

plished footballer, and his passing is deeply mourned by his many playing colleagues of that era. Gerry Reilly (pictured here taking part in a charity match) was a member of the Roscommon team that played Kerry in the 1962 AllIreland senior football final. The removal took place on Monday to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Templemore. Funeral Mass

was followed by burial in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Templemore. Predeceased his brothers Michael A, Tommy Pat, John Joe and Bennie, and sisters Margaret Rogers, Alice Preece and Mary Reynolds, he is deeply mourned by his wife Sheila, son Michael, daughter Monica, further relatives and many friends. May he rest in peace.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

HOMEandGARDEN

RATTIGAN’S FITTED KITCHENS, & SLIDEROBES

Main Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 35530 / (086) 3855263 Email: rattigandavid@gmail.com Supplier and Fitter of Top Quality Kitchens and Bedroom units at Competitive Prices

WE NOW SPECIALISE IN UNDERSTAIRS STORAGE

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 9 am to 6 pm; Saturday 9 am to 5 pm. Evenings by appointment

OUR REPUTATION IS YOUR GUARANTEE

Coyne Carpentry & Joinery All Internal Carpentry - 2nd fix flooring, stairs, kitchens, wardrobes and joinery

Ciaran Coyne

find us on Facebook & Instagram

Knockcroghery Co. Roscommon 085 7111570 email: ccoynecarpentry@gmail.com website: www.coynecarpentryandjoinery.ie

CONNOLLY CARPETS & FLOORING Pound Street, Ballaghaderreen

Telephone: 087 1366482 Supply and installation of Carpets,Vinyl, Laminates, LVT and Wood Flooring l

Domestic l Commercial

MASSIVE RANGE TO CHOOSE FROM Available for collection or delivery in 2/3 days

Call-out service also available Contact us and we will call out with samples

Over 40 years fitting experience in the trade

No. 12, North West Business & Technology Park, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim

Tel/Fax: 071 9650999

Email: noonecarpetsandfurniture@eircom.net l

Domestic l Commercial l Industrial Free Measuring/Estimates

Get your garden autumnready this month! The warmer days are drawing to a close, and while there may not be as much to do at this time of the year when it comes to ornamental gardening, there still remains a few items on the agenda during the month of September. So, here are our top five things to keep you occupied in the garden this coming month: Harvesting time: September is harvest season, which means it’s time to reap the rewards of the fruit or vegetable patch you’ve been working on during the last couple of months. It is important to harvest your fruit and vegetables regularly to prevent them from going to seed or becoming food for pests, and make sure to be aware of all the details of the harvesting process for each crop,

like loosening onions two weeks before you harvest them, to ensure the best outcome. With so much food becoming available all at once before the winter season, it is also useful to learn how to prepare vegetables for freezing. Reduce houseplant watering: Overwatering can be a common problem when it comes to maintaining houseplants, but as the winter months approach, it is especially important to stop feeding and reduce the frequency of houseplant watering until the compost is almost dry between watering (except if plants are growing vigorously or flowering). Plant spring-flowering bulbs: Bulbs are one of the easiest and

most rewarding items to grow, and in the case of spring-flowering bulbs, September is the ideal time to get planting. Plants such as daffodils, crocus and hyacinths are ideal for planting in September, preferably towards the end of the month. You may also consider planting hardy summerflowering bulbs (such as lilies, alliums and crocosmia) this month or even in October. Planting autumn vegetable gardens: Though the prime time for sowing vegetables is behind us, there are still a myriad of crops which can be sown in September. autumn/winter growing is of course dependant on weather, and without a greenhouse or polytunnel, all growth will stop in midNovember. However, you can

plant overwintering plants like garlic, spring cabbage, oriental greens, and overwintering onions, which will resume growth in spring, as well as autumn plants such as turnip Tokyo cross or autumn lettuce to ensure crops right up until the end of the season. Save some seed: As September is harvesting season, this month is sure to bring with it plentiful ripening seeds for both ornamental and edible plants. With this in mind, it is a great idea to take up the opportunity to save some seed from your own garden, as not only will it save you a few euro, it usually leaves you with better results than if opting for storebought seed because it’s freshly harvested and at peak viability.

HOMEandGARDEN

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Home maintenance: looking after your home and preparing for the colder months ahead “It’s Our Service That Set Us Apart” 40 years of producing and supplying Ireland’s purest ground limestone throughout the entire Midlands, West and Northwest.

LARAGAN LIME 071 9630000 www.hanlygroup.com 3 Dept of Agri Certified 3 Licenced Seller 3 Neutralising Value 98% 3 Network of Lime Spreaders As we move into September, we begin to say goodbye to the last of the year’s warmer days in anticipation of the oncoming colder months. So before the days turn cool for good, there are a couple of things to be done around the house in a lead up to the winter season. Check your gutters: The autumn season is sure to leave us with fallen leaves in gutters and downspouts, and so, it is a good idea to give these areas a good inspection in anticipation of the months ahead. Pulling out sticks, leaves and other debris at this stage of the year will give you a head start on your gutter maintenance. Checking your gutters now also affords you the opportunity to make note of any worn-out seals around vent pipes and chimneys, meaning that any repairs that are needed can be done and dusted in time for winter. Look after appliances: Doing checks and routine deep cleans of appliances is a very much year-long chore, however as the winter months begin to creep in, it may be especially useful to spend the time checking them and cleaning them out. With the warm weather fading away, and most of us opting for heartier, oven-cooked meals as the cold creeps in, appliances such as tumbler dryers and the oven are going to be used more often, and so why not take the time to do some maintenance on them. Fireplace and chimney maintenance: The fast-approaching winter season is the period of the

year that sees us getting the most use out of our fireplaces, which makes it especially important to do chimney and fireplace maintenance now before the weather turns completely. Make sure your fireplace and chimney are safe, clean, and ready to go by getting in a professional to take a look at them. It is important to do fireplace inspections every year, and the autumn season is the most suitable time to do so. Cozy up: With the nights getting cooler, it would be wise to beginning swapping out lightweight summer bedding for thicker duvets to keep you warm at night. You might also consider incorporating thick rugs, heavy curtains, throws and

pillows into your home décor, which won’t just serve to bring in an added warmth to the look of the home, but might actually make it feel warmer too! Safety checks: Undergoing proper maintenance on your fireplace and chimney is not the only way to ensure you stay safe while staying warm in the cooler months ahead. It is also important to check your safety devices, as the importance of them cannot go understated. Test all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure that they are working properly, and replace them if needed. Be sure to also check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher, again replacing it if need be.

AUTUMN FLOWERS for Instant Colour

DISCOVER THE BEST PLANTS FOR

LATE COLOUR

QUALIT Y

• VA L U E • C H O I C E • A DV I C E

Ardcarne Garden Centre At two great locations: Ardcarne, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 966 7091 Lanesboro Road, Roscommon Town Tel: 090 662 7700

We’re here to help

www.ardcarne.ie

Open Monday to Saturday 9-6pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 12-6pm

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

HOMEandGARDEN

Vegetable gardens: September to do list

Just arrived: Delivery of Spring Flowering Bulbs,Tulips, Hyacinths, Daffodils, etc. – Special offer: €4.99 1/4 stone Jam Making? We have Jam Jars, Lids, Jam Sugar Coughs or colds? – small amount of local honey available September is the best time of year to sow your lawn. You need Lawn Seed, Lawn Fertilizer, Compost

• Pick up any windfalls or damaged fruit as it attracts wasps. • Continue to water pumpkins and winter squash plants which are still growing. • Continue to water regularly but be careful not to over water the foliage of tomato, aubergine, pepper and chilli-pepper plants as it could encourage grey mould.

Some unwelcome visitors this time of year? Selection of rat and mouse poison... Storm, Endorats Vertox; + Rat Traps, Mouse Traps, Live Catch Traps, Bait Boxes. Remember! Prevention is better than cure!

• Give a good soak once a week to celery, celeriac, marrows, courgettes, pumpkin, runner bean and leeks. • Start removing surplus leaves from your tomato plants which allows air to circulate around the plants and sunshine to fall on the fruit (which helps them to ripen). • Continue to check for pests and diseases in the greenhouse/polytun-

nel and in the garden. • As the nights cool down, close up your greenhouse or polytunnel earlier to preserve heat. • It’s a busy time in the kitchen converting that hard-won harvest in to fuel for the winter - make soups, jams, chutneys; freeze, dry and store. Do not put excess veggies on the compost heap!

Duck Season has started September 1st! Don’t forget Robert Flynn’s are fully licenced Firearms Dealers. Large selection of Bullets, Cartridges – all at shot sizes and top brands stocked. Selection of Shotguns, Bolt Action Rifles, Air Rifles, Decoys, Duck Callers, Fox Callers, Gun Cabinets, Trigger Locks Roscommon’s largest Fishing Tackle Dealer: Spinner Spoons, Rods, Reels, Dead Bait, Permits

• KEY CUTTING • WATCH BATTERY AND STRAP REPLACMENT • COLOUR PHOTOCOPY • FAX SERVICE

all at ...

ROBERT FLYNN

The Square, Castlerea, Roscommon. - Tel: (094) 9620028

Local men undertake ‘Beauty to Beast’ fundraiser to raise awareness of suicide Two Tarmonbarry men are currently undertaking a fundraiser in a bid to raise support and awareness for those bereaved by suicide in our community. The fundraiser ‘Beauty to Beast’ will see Eddie Coffey and Johnny Rhatigan have refrained from shaving or cutting their hair since December 31st, 2020 until World Suicide Awareness Day on September 10th. All funds raised will go to the Athlone and Midlands Samaritans. The two men hope that by raising awareness it might just save one life and in turn save one family the trauma of life after suicide. Eddie’s wife, Liz Coffey (nee Casey) is the youngest of six children to Ann and Liam Casey of Rathowen in Co. Westmeath. 32 years ago, Liz’s 15-year-old brother, Willie, sadly took his own life and the family was once again hit by tragedy when brother Paddy died by suicide in January 2020. Liz hopes the fundraiser will help prevent another family from experiencing the same anguish. “32 years ago last June, my 15-year-old brother took his own

life tearing our family apart and sending us all into a new unknown horror we now called life,” she said. “We did manage a lot of happy years and made happy memories, my wonderful mum and dad tried their best to make our lives happy. Unfortunately we were hit with the sudden loss of our dad in 2004 when he went to work one morning never to return, his poor heart had finally given up. “But without any doubt our greatest family tragedy unfolded on Sunday, January 26th, 2020, when the news was broken to us that our second brother had also taken his life”. The Casey family were left heartbroken by the loss of Paddy, a man “who lit up the room” and was so dearly loved by his mother, sisters, wife and children as well as so many wonderful friends. “Our fundraiser came about during a lockdown get together, when our friends Johnny Rhatigan and Patricia Lane, who had recently suffered a tragic loss themselves on January 2nd, 2020 when Patricia’s wonderful brother Frankie Lane from Derrahaun, Keenagh, sadly decided it

was time to leave this world. “We wanted to do something that would try and stop another family going through the horror of life after suicide. It was hard to come up with an idea that was Covid-friendly but with a bit of discussion we decided on the Beauty to Beast,” she added. Liz and family think fondly of her two brothers each day. “My one wish is to get people talking about suicide, to help them understand that the darkness they are currently living in is only temporary, that there is help out there and that so many more people care about them than they will ever know, everything can be changed with a little help,” she said. Liz and family hope that the Beauty to Beast fundraiser will raise much-needed funds for Samaritans and show those currently experiencing difficulty that “there is help available, that they are loved and life is worth living”. You can follow Eddie’s and Johnny’s efforts ahead of World Suicide Awareness Day on Facebook at ‘Beauty to Beast’.

Johnny Rhatigan and Eddie Coffey have refrained from shaving or cutting their hair until World Suicide Awareness Day on September 10th.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

NewsPeople

TAKE A BREAK

Manchester United fans

It’s been a GOOD week for… Some well-known GAA fans pictured intently watching the action in the recent Clann na nGael-Strokestown game! Picture: Mick McCormack

Manchester United fans, with the dramatic return of Cristiano Ronaldo to Old Trafford, with the veteran superstar set to make his (second) debut for the club this weekend Tyrone senior footballers, who sensationally overcame their Covid-19 crisis and ambushed hot favourites Kerry in Saturday’s All-Ireland senior football semi-final, setting up an unexpected final date with Mayo Irish paralympians, with the Irish team winning a number of medals – Jason Smyth’s gold in the 100m final a highlight – and numerous competitors, including Roscommon’s Richael Timothy, recording personal bests on the greatest stage of all

It’s been a BAD week for… The people of New Orleans, as Hurricane Ida, one of the worst weather events in memory, struck Fans of Gogglebox in the UK, with the death in the same week of two regulars on the hit show…Andrew Michael (61) and Mary Cook (92). Our thoughts are with their loved ones

“

The Kerry senior football team, who were expected to reach the All-Ireland final only to be defeated (in extra-time) by fiercely motivated underdogs, Tyrone

These fans (pictured at Strokestown v Clann recently) are delighted to be back attending club championship games in Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Supporting Richael at the 2020 Paralympics... See our special tribute video on Roscommon People YouTube channel!

Best of luck Richael – the county is very proud of you!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

The things people say…

“You talk about anger and you talk about people not knowing facts, of course people don’t know facts because no one has told us anything. When you have a vacuum of information as there was from the Tyrone camp…there was a vacuum of information. Into that vacuum comes misinformation, false narratives, innuendo and that’s what you got” – Pugnacious pundit Pat Spillane (addressing Sean Cavanagh) lets rip at Tyrone prior to Saturday’s All-Ireland senior football semi-final

Charlie Sheen (Troubled movie star, also famous for his Salma Hayek (Mexican actress and producer, 55 role in the TV sitcom Two and a Half Men, on Thursday) 56 on Friday)

Raquel Welch (Legendary American actress, 81 on Sunday)

Beyoncé (American singer, songwriter, and actress, 40 on Saturday)

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

FarmingPeople Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

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

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS MONDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER:

BULLOCK SALE

(PLEASE NOTE AS AND FROM MONDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER, BULLOCK SALE WILL RESUME ON MONDAYS). THURSDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER:

CONTINENTAL WEANLING SHOW AND SALE MONDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER:

CONTINENTAL BULLOCK SHOW AND SALE THURSDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER:

CONTINENTAL HEIFER SHOW AND SALE AND BELGIAN BLUE WEANLING SHOW AND SALE IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR USUAL SALE.

Agriculture Committee needs to reconvene to address forestry licence slump – Fitzmaurice

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has called for the Joint Oireachtas Agriculture Committee to be recalled immediately in order to address the slump in processing forestry licences. The representative for the RoscommonGalway constituency has submitted the request to the chair of the committee, Jackie Cahill, as well as the clerk of the committee, following receipt of the latest figures from the Forestry Dashboard. Commenting on the matter, Fitzmaurice said: “Just 33 licences were granted in the week ending Friday, August 27th. A total of 20 of these were classed as felling, with 14 for Coillte and six for private felling. Just three road licences were granted and 10 afforestation licences were processed. “In the previous seven weeks to the latest set of figures, just 18 afforestation licences were issued. “You have to go back as far as the week ending July 2nd to see a level of licence processing which you could consider acceptable, when 115 licences were processed. “Since that, productivity within the Forest Service has fallen off a cliff. In the last eight weeks, approximately 34 licences per week have been given the green light”. Deputy Fitzmaurice added: “The Minister of State with responsibility for For-

estry, Pippa Hackett, previously told the committee that the drop in productivity was a minor set back and it would soon be back to normal service”. “During previous committee meetings around forestry, we were also told that the Forest Service would have to maintain a processing average of approximately 100 licences a week to meet its overall target for the year. “This huge fall off in productivity has gone on for long enough and I am calling on the chair of the Agriculture Committee, Jackie Cahill, to reconvene an urgent meeting of the committee so we can address these issues”. Deputy Fitzmaurice called on the secretary general of the Department to appear before the committee and address the “abysmal licencing figures” which he says are crippling the entire sector. “We have been patiently waiting for promised improvements in licence processing from the Forest Service, which has not been sufficiently apparent. People need to be held accountable for this lack of productivity. “I hope Deputy Cahill, who has been a fair and thorough chair of the Agriculture Committee, agrees with the urgent need with which the committee needs to reconvened,” he concluded.

MONDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER:

AA BULLOCK SHOW AND SALE THURSDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER:

AA HEIFER SHOW AND SALE For Enquiries Please Contact Mart Office Or Visit Our Website For Details.

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price GUARANTEED Daily collection

Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Funding is key for sheep farmers in next CAP - IFA

IFA Sheep Chairman Sean Dennehy said the key priority for sheep farmers in the next CAP is funding to deliver €30/ewe support for the sheep sector. The IFA Sheep Committee met recently and reaffirmed the importance of this measure to underpin the viability of sheep farmers. Mr. Dennehy said the scheme must have a funding allocation of approx. €78 million to deliver €30/ ewe to all participants. “The current proposal lacks ambition to provide the opportunity for participants to generate €30/ ewe and must be amended through increased/updated costings and additional practical and beneficial measures,” he said. The IFA Sheep Chairman

said the reference period must reflect the actual levels of activity on farms. “New entrants to the sector must be allowed time to establish their flocks while participating in the scheme and have this recognised in the reference numbers,” he said. The IFA Sheep Committee has also included a proposal to include shearing as an action in the scheme. “Shearing has become a very expensive practice for sheep farmers due to the collapse in the wool market. This is a critical animal health and welfare measure, which is ideally placed for inclusion in the sheep scheme,” Mr. Dennehy said. “Inclusion of this measure in the sheep scheme

will deliver on a number of key objectives in the CAP. It will support farmers in a vulnerable sector and ensure best practice is followed in parasite control and the overall health and welfare of the flock. “It will also ensure that wool, which is a natural product with many environmentally-sustainable uses, is presented from farms in optimum condition for further use”. Sean Dennehy said the Committee is unanimous that compulsion to be part of the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme as an eligibility requirement of the scheme must be removed. The committee also said the new agri-environmental scheme must deliver €10,000 to sheep farmers.

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

Castlerea MART WATCH There was lightly less stock presented at last week’s (August 28th), as farmers availed of the wonderful weather conditions. However, the sale recorded no change in trade or price, with demand remaining very strong from the ringside, online and from northern activity. The bullock ring recorded an excellent clearance for both the stores and heavier lots, with the top quality stores exceeding €3 a kilo and heavier lots making €1,030 over their weight. The heifer ring noticed good demand also this week, while the dry cows peaked at €2,100. €2,400 was forked out for an eight-year-old limousin cow and her January-born bull calf at foot. The weanling trade has also started out very brightly, with the bulls peaking at €3.28 a kilo and the heifer weanling peaking at €3.26 a kilo. Calves and runners recorded an excellent clearance with increased farmer activity. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,240 to €2,400. Springers made from €1,120 to €1,480. Young calves made from €65 to €430 with runners making from €370 to €770 for continental lots. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday) with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am. On Monday, September 13th, our bullock sale will resume. On Thursday, September 16th, we will have our continental weanling show and sale. On Monday, September 20th, we will have our continental bullock show and sale. On Thursday, September 23rd, we will have our continental heifer show and sale and Belgian blue weanling show and sale. Monday, September 27th, we will have our Aberdeen Angus bullock show and sale. On Thursday, September 30th, we will have our Aberdeen Angus heifer show and sale. Saturday, October 2nd, Saturday weanling sales commence. Sample prices for bullocks: Ch 475kgs €1460, Ch 435kgs €1320, Ch 480kgs €1300, Ch 515kgs €1580, Sim 530kgs €1370, Lm 565kgs €1530, Ch 555kgs €1450, Ch 630kgs €1630, AA 635kgs €1530, Lm 750kgs €1780, Lm 735kgs €1690, AA 780kgs €1680. Heifers: Lm 415kgs €1160, Lm 425kgs €1120, Sa 410kgs €1080, Lm 453kgs €1240, AA 465kgs €1190, Ch 700kgs €1670, AA 595kgs €1600, Ch 615kgs €1570, Lm 580kgs €1480. Dry cows: Lm 950kgs €2100, Lm 930kgs €2080, Ch 885kgs €1970, Lm 700kgs €1650, Her 740kgs €1490, AA 635kgs €1450, Her 575kgs €950, Lm 635kgs €1280. Weanling heifers: Ch 270kgs €880, Ch 275kgs €860, Ch 225kgs €680, Lm 385kgs €1110, Lm 365kgs €1075, Ch 340kgs €900, Ch 345kgs €880, Lm 245kgs €800. Weanling bulls: Lm 290kgs €740, Ch 230kgs €600, AA 220kgs €550, Ch 375kgs €1230, BA 400kgs €1200, Lm 425kgs €1150, Ch 400kgs €1180.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

FarmingPeople

IFA Livestock Chairman slams Minister’s CAP proposals The IFA Livestock Committee has strongly criticised the proposals put forward for suckler and beef farmers in the Department of Agriculture’s CAP consultation document. IFA Livestock Chairman Brendan Golden said members are very disappointed at the “lack of ambition to provide meaningful support to the sector, and at the underhanded attempts to limit the national suckler herd through the proposed suckler cow scheme”. The Livestock Committee, which met recently, consists of democratically elected representatives of suckler and beef farmers from every county in the country. Setting out the conclusions of the Committee, Brendan Golden said any attempt to limit or cap the

national suckler herd has been rejected out of hand and will not be accepted by IFA. |Irish suckler farmers operate one of the most environmentally sustainable beef farming systems in the world and are a critical component of beef production, within the higher environmental standards that are being imposed on farming and food production by the EU in the new CAP,” he said. The IFA Livestock Chairman said suckler farmers must be directly supported in the Strategic Plans for what they do. “These must include a payment of €300/cow with no underhand attempts within the scheme to limit or cap the national herd,” he added. The Livestock Committee also strongly rejected

the compulsion to be part of the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme (QA) as a condition of eligibility to receive payments. QA is recognised as a market requirement and as such farmers who participate must be rewarded from the market place “It’s not acceptable or appropriate to impose this requirement as a condition of the suckler scheme. Farmers are already measuring carbon in existing schemes without the requirement to be part of the Bord Bia QA Scheme,” Mr. Golden said. The Livestock Chairman was also critical of the Department’s failure to include a cattle rearing and finishing scheme in the Strategic Plans. “Eco Schemes must be designed to ensure every farmer, at a minimum, is provided with the oppor-

Dear Sir, It is important to let you know of plans by offi-cials at the Department of Agriculture (DAFM) to introduce legislation which will

Autumn Special Sale of Heifers 65 Pens on offer Also Bullocks & Dry Cows ----------------------

Friday, September 10th at 11 a.m.

Autumn Special Sale of Bullocks Also Heifers & Dry Cows

tunity to claim back all the monies that is taken from their individual entitlement value,” he added. Brendan Golden said while the requirements for the new CAP are challenging, there is nothing stopping the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue in the National Strategic Plans from ensuring supports are directed in a targeted manner to suckler and beef farmers that reflect the standards

and quality of production on these farms and the contribution to the environmental objectives in these production systems. “The current proposals for livestock farmers in the Pillar II schemes must be fundamentally changed. IFA will be putting forward a detailed response to the consultation process and raising these issues directly with the Minister for Agriculture,” he concluded.

force me to get a veterinary prescription each time I wish to buy an essential parasite treatment medi-cine from my local chemise, licenced merchant or Co-Op outlet. This is not acceptable as it will lead to increased costs, more paper-work and it is not easy to contact a vet during busy times of the season. In other European countries where this has happened, routine medicine costs have up by 40 percent. The Minister for Agriculture can and must put a stop to this. It is another unnecessary attack on our livelihood and that of the 150,000 family farms in the country. As a member of a

Government party, it is time for you and your colleagues to say enough is enough. You and your party have enjoyed my family’s support over the generations, something that my not be forthcoming if our livelihood continues to be attacked. The politicians in Govern-ment will lose my support and that of my family’s and put at risk the entire rural vote if you do not act on our behalf now. Yours sincerely, Name and address with editor

Roscommon MART WATCH There was a very good entry of top-quality cattle on offer at last Friday’s sale on August 27th, with a solid trade for all classes. Bullocks averaged from €2.45 per kilo up to €2.99 per kilo, heifers ranged from an average of €2.36 per kilo up to €2.82 per kilo, and dry cows fetched from an average of €2.04 per kilo up to €2.48 per kilo There were large numbers of customers in attendance and this, coupled with a strong online presence, resulted in a very high percentage clearance of lots sold. On Friday, September 3rd, we will hold our special sale of heifers and general sale of bull-ocks and dry cows. There was a nice entry of stock on offer at our weanling sale on Tuesday, August 31st, with a good trade for both bulls and heifers. Prices for heifers ranged from an average of €2.54 per kilo up to €3 per kilo, and bulls made from an average of €2.50 per kilo up to €3.16 per kilo. Customers were anxious for stock both online and at the ringside. Our next show and sale of weanlings takes place on Tuesday next, September 7th, at 4 pm. Bookings will be accepted up until 5 pm on Thursday, September 2nd. We had a very big entry of over 1,500 breeding sheep on offer at our sale on Saturday, August 28th. The trade was a little easier for both

hoggets and breeding ewes and the majority of lots were sold. Hoggets ranged from €155 up to €240, twoyear-old ewes made from €152 up to €240, and three-year-olds made from €140 up to €165. Sales continue for breeding sheep on Saturday, September 4th. Also taking place on September 4th is the West of Ireland Registered Pedigree Suffolk Sheep Breeders Club Premier Show and Sale, with 57 lots on offer. The show takes place from 11 am and the sale starts at 1 pm. On the same day, the Lleyn Sheep Society Show and Sale will take place, with 8 ewes, 345 shearling ewes, 269 ewe lambs and 41 rams on offer. The show will start at 11.30 am, and the sale is set to begin at 2 pm. We had larger numbers on offer at this week’s sheep sale on Wednesday, September 1st. There was a similar trade for lambs, with finished lambs making up to €140 for 53.8kgs, and there were some excellent ewe lambs on offer, with ewe lambs making up to €166 for 54.9kgs. Store lambs made up to €120 and stag ewes made up €160. Our next sheep sale is our annual show and sale for lambs and cast ewes, and takes place on Wednesday, September 8th, at 11 am. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday, September 3rd at 11 a.m.

ILMA calls on Department to row back on veterinary medicines legislation In a recent letter, shown to local Independent Councillor Tony Waldron, members of the Licenced Merchants Association have called for Minister of Agriculture Charlie McConalogue to pull back on a decision to introduce legislation which they say would increase the cost of routine veterinary medicines…

(Proudly serving farmers for over 62 years)

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

Friday, September 17th at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers Also Bullocks & Dry Cows

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. Monday, September 13th ----------------------

Fall/Autumn Show & Sale of Weanlings Tuesday, September 7th at 4 p.m. Gates open at 11.30 a.m. All cattle must be penned by 1.30 p.m.

Weanlings must be born in 2021 in exhibitors’ own herd Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 2nd

Prizes 1st: €100, 2nd: €65, 3rd: €40 Class 1: Best Bull Weanling Class 2: Best Two Bull Weanlings Class 3: Best Heifer Weanling Class 4: Best Two Weanling Heifers Champion Weanling of Show The Pat Neilan Memorial Cup (kindly sponsored by the Society’s Auctioneer) & €200 ----------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Yard open at 8.30 a.m. All stock must be penned by 10 a.m. ----------------------

Wednesday, September 8th at 11 a.m. note that all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com. Sample prices for dry cows: Simm X 840kgs €1890, PTX 775kgs €1750, Lim X 775kgs €1730, Char X 690kgs, €1710, Lim X 720kgs €1670, Char X 620kgs €1540, Lim X 690kgs €1490, AAX 560kgs €1150, Lim X 605kgs €1400, Lim X 595kgs €1210. Heifers: AAX 810kgs €1690, AA 680kgs €1480, Char X 640kgs €1450, AA 680kgs €1440, Lim X 385kgs €960, Char X 380kgs €970, Lim X 350kgs €980, Char X 405kgs €1000, 2 Char X 417kgs €1060, Char X 365kgs €1030, Lim X 400kgs €1050, Lim X 380kgs €1050. Bullocks: Char X 780kgs €2020, Char X 765kgs €2000, Char X 765kgs €1950, Char X 750kgs €1950, AAX 735kgs €1720, Char 665kgs €1740, Lim X 655kgs €1660, Char X 645kgs €1660, Char X 525kgs €1570, Char X 555kgs €1580, 2 AAX 687kgs €1600, 4 Char X 577kgs €1640, Char X 530kgs €1500, 2 Lim X 572kgs €1510, 3 Char X 520kgs €1410, Char X 495kgs €1360, 6 Char X 491kgs €1350, Char X 475kgs €1280, Lim X 445kgs €1200, 2 Char X 395kgs €1060, 2 Char X 385kgs €1050, Lim X 350kgs €1040.

Weanling heifers: Char X 415kgs €1100 - €2.65 per kilo, Char X 385kgs €1060 - €2.75 per kilo, Char X 385kgs €1030 - €2.67 per kilo, Lim X 365kgs €940 - €2.57 per kilo, 2 Lim 320kgs €920 €2.87 per kilo, Char X 370kgs €910 - €2.45 per kilo, Char X 260kgs €780 - €3 per kilo, Lim X 235kgs €610 - €2.59 per ki-lo, Char X 250kgs €740 - €2.59 per kilo. Weanling bulls: Lim X 440kgs €1280 - €2.90 per kilo, Lim X 405kgs €1160 - €2.86 per kilo, Char X 360kgs €1080 - €3 per kilo, 2 Char X 307kgs €940 - €3.05 per kilo, Aux 370kgs €960 - €2.59 per kilo, Char X 335kgs €990 - €2.95 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €970 €3.07 per kilo, Char X 325kgs €1030 - €3.16 per kilo, Lim X 340kgs €940 - €2.76 per kilo. Finished lambs: 53.8kgs €140, 50.9kgs €137, 58kgs €137, 50kgs €134, 47.3kgs €133, 48.8kgs €132, 46.7kgs €128, 47.3kgs €127. Ewe lambs: 54.9kgs €166, 49.4kgs €140, 42.1kgs €140, 50.9kgs €138, 47kgs €136, 50.7kgs €134, 47.5kgs €130, 40kgs €127. Store lambs: 44.2kgs €120, 43.9kgs €116, 42.2kgs €115, 41.8kgs €113, 38.8kgs €112, 41.1kgs €111, 37.8kgs €110, 38.8kgs €104, 36.8kgs €103, 35.8kgs €102.

Show & Sale of Lambs

Sponsored by Paddy Coffey & Sons Lecarrow, Roscommon Class 1: Best pen of 10 or more Store Lambs Class 2: Best Pen of 10 or More Ewe Lambs suitable for Breeding Class 3: Best Pen of 10 or more Finished Lambs Prizes -1st: €100, 2nd €65, 3rd €40 Special Prize for Best Pen of Galway/Roscommon Ewe Lambs The Phelim Kerin Perpetual Cup (kindly sponsored by the Society’s Auctioneers) will be awarded to the Winner of the Champion Pen of Lambs ----------------------

Saturday, September 4th

Breeding Ewes & Hoggets

Sale at 11 a.m. Gates open at 8 a.m. Also West of Ireland Registered Pedigree Suffolk Sheep Breeders Club Premier Show and Sale 57 lots on offer - Show 11 am - Sale 1 pm Also Lleyn Sheep Society Sale of 8 Ewes, 345 Shearling Ewes, 269 Ewe Lambs and 41 rams Show 11.30am- Sale 2pm.

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Business

238 additional places on local Community Employment and Tús schemes – Naughten

Deputy Denis Naughten

Independent and Cathaoirleach of the Dáil Committee on Social Protection, Denis Naughten, has confirmed the provision of 238 additional places on local Community Employment and Tús schemes across Roscommon and Galway. The Government has sanctioned thirty additional Tús places in County Roscommon and a further 170 in County Galway, east of the City, with a further 38 Community Employment positions across the area, including Dunmore, Castleblakeney, Castlerea and Frenchpark.

“These allocations of additional posts are very welcome and reflect proposals that the Dáil Committee put to Minister Heather Humphreys and Minister Joe O’Brien earlier this year,” said Denis Naughten. “The Committee has also recommended that the time limits for those aged 55 years and over on Community Employment schemes should be relaxed, and I hope this will be reflected in the Budget to be announced in October,” he concluded. Rachel and Brian Nolan, Nobó, are among the Food Works participants who have completed the Food Works accelerator programme since it was first launched in 2012.

Tasty opportunity for local food and drink start-ups!

Pictured left to right: Ray O'Connor, Ireland Country Manager, Aruba Networks; Sean Nolan, Business Development Manager, Agile Networks and John O'Donnell, IT, Galway Roscommon ETB.

New world of learning revealed to 22,000 students in the west Independent network integrator and cloud services provider, Agile Networks today announced its selection as technology partner for the deployment of wireless internet access for Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB).   The project opens up a new world of learning for 22,000 students, bringing reliable, high-speed internet access to the classroom and with it, a pool of global information resources to enhance the education experience.  Management and ongoing maintenance of the wireless network has also been substantially improved with user-friendly dashboards and intuitive troubleshooting, which provides a more consistent wireless service for students and staff.   Spread across 60 different locations and serving a population of over 324,000, GRETB is the country’s second-largest ETB in terms of geographical area. Commenting on the project, John O’Donnell, IT lead with Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board, said: “Standardising on a single vendor for the provision of our network was the pre-cursor for easy network management. Having a

single interface to view, manage and troubleshoot devices significantly reduces IT administration and support costs.  “Our services are growing and we needed an access solution that could be managed remotely from head office or delegated to some of the more experienced members of staff”.   At second-level Clarin College in Athenry, Co Galway for example, an access point has been installed in every classroom. Teachers and students can network smartphones, laptops, tablets and even projectors meeting everyone’s expectations to harness the power of the internet as they make their way through academic life.  Recruitment interviews can be conducted remotely or in the same building in a different room, allowing for safe social distancing, while staff throughout the campus can use wireless printing to send print jobs to the device which is closest to them.  The network is based on Aruba Networks’ wireless access points, Ethernet switching devices and Aruba Central management software.  “We instinctively knew that Aruba with its AI technology would allow

staff with limited technical knowledge to easily troubleshoot network issues and resolve them quickly,” said Sean Nolan, business development manager with Agile Networks.  “Portal access has also been extended to local schools so they can get full visibility of the number of devices connected and profile of traffic on the network, much of which is now video-based in the form of YouTube. This feature is proving exceptionally helpful in informing the school of network usage in a non-technical way,” he said.  Customers across 1,500 sites with over 1.8 million end users rely on networks built and supported by Agile Networks.  Galway and Roscommon ETB (GRETB) provides full-time educational services in Colleges of Further Education, Post Primary Schools and in Community National Schools. The organisation also operates extensive Further Education and Training programmes including Youth services. Information Technology is recognised as a cornerstone of providing the type of responsive, real-world educational and support programmes that the region demands.

Food Works, the collaborative tri-agency initiative run by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, is looking for high potential, innovative and export driven food and drink start-ups from Roscommon to join their next accelerator programme. Fiid, The Lismore Food Company and Nobó, some of Ireland’s rising stars, are among over 100 companies that have already completed the programme since it began in 2012. Participating start-ups will be supported to get investor ready with a comprehensive business plan focussed on them scaling internationally. Participants will also be eligible to apply for feasibility grant funding of up to €35,000 through Enterprise Ireland.

The unique food and drink entrepreneurship programme runs annually over 10 months from March to December. It includes workshops with national and international industry experts across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, product development, marketing and other areas. Start-ups also receive customised support from business advisors, facilitated peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities across the industry - at home and abroad. The initiative will be jointly delivered by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc. The closing date for applications for the 2022 programme is December 3rd. Full details and application forms are available at FoodWorksIreland.ie.

Founding President appointed for Technological University of Shannon: Midlands and Midwest The chair of the Joint Governing Body of the AIT-LIT Consortium, Professor Tom Collins, has welcomed the announcement by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris that Professor Vincent Cunnane is to be the first President of the Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest. The appointment was announced by the Minister following an international recruitment process. The term of the appointment is eight years and Professor Cunnane will take up his post from the commencement of the new Technological University on October 1st. The Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest will commence on October 1st , with campuses in Athlone, Clonmel, Ennis, Limerick and Thurles Professor Cunnane joins the Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest from LIT, where he has been President since 2016. Prior to that, he was president of IT Sligo. He was formerly Chief Executive Officer of Shannon De-

velopment until its merger into the Shannon Airport Authority Group of Companies. Prior to that, he was Vice-President of Research at the University Limerick, where he also lectured and researched. He is an internationally renowned researcher in the field of physical electrochemistry. He is Chair of THEA and former Chair of the Governing Council of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies, and a member of the board of the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training. He is married to Helena and has three adult sons, Eoghan, Connor and Ciaran.

Incoming President of Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest Professor Vincent Cunnane.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

PropertyPeople

Commercial vacancy rate in Roscommon rises to 17.3% The commercial vacancy rate in Roscommon increased to 17.3 percent, representing an increase of 0.6 percentage points on the corresponding rate in June 2020, according to the latest GeoView Commercial Vacancy Rates Report commissioned by GeoDirectory and prepared by EY Economic Advisory. This rate was higher than the national average of 13.6%. 18 counties recorded an increase in commercial vacancy rates between June 2020 and June 2021, with Kildare registering the sharpest rise in vacancy rates. Vacancy rates declined in six counties with Laois recording the largest decrease over the same period. The report found that the lowest provincial commercial vacancy rate in the country was in Leinster with an average vacancy rate of 12.7 percent. At 10.3 percent each, Meath and Wexford were the counties with the lowest commercial vacancy rates

in the province and country. The highest commercial vacancy rates were found in the Connacht region, where the provincial vacancy rate stood at 17.2percent. The four counties with the highest commercial vacancy rates in the country were all located in Connacht, namely Sligo (20 %), Roscommon (17.3%), Leitrim (17.2%) and Mayo (17%). Of the towns in Roscommon surveyed, Roscommon was the town with the highest commercial vacancy rate (24.2%), while Boyle was the lowest (19.7%). Commenting on the report, Dara Keogh, Chief Executive of GeoDirectory said: “We have seen a slight, but consistent increase in commercial vacancy rates across the country over the past twelve months. There still appears to be a very prominent gap in economic activity on the east coast compared to the west coast and this is something which will need to be addressed on a policy level. The

report also found a noticeable decline in the number of Retail and Wholesale units in the country, with 1,931 fewer premises recorded than this time last year”. Annette Hughes, Director at EY Economic Advisory, said: “The data provided is up to mid-June 2021 and hence just captures the beginning of the easing of restrictions for outdoor dining for the hospitality sector on June 7th. The further reopening of indoor hospitality on July 26th and the more general relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions is giving rise to an early rebound in economic activity. “While the sustainability of some businesses in the hospitality sector may be tested after the summer staycation season, the hope is that progress on the vaccination programme reduces any risk of a resumption of further restrictions and the domestic economic recovery gathers momentum over the coming twelve months”.

Prime residential farm for sale in Strokestown The week, John Earley of Property Partners Earley is offering to the market a prime residential farm of approximately 133.4 acres, located at Killukin, Strokestown Co Roscommon (F42H362), with the benefit of entitlements passing (being the estate of John Devine, deceased). The lands are comprised in Folio RN6287, set out in one lot with frontage onto Ardakillin Lough. The property is a renowned feeding farm in the district, on which stands a fine four-bedroomed, two-storey residence in need for modernisation. There is also a character stone storage sheds set to rear, as well as a four-bay hay

barn and yard, cattle crush etc. The farm is located approximately 5km from Strokestown on the L1421 road, with a central private driveway servicing the residence and farmyard. Services include water, ESB, and a septic tank. The auctioneer invites all viewings and offers to sell. Entitlements: Estimated value passing say €8,000 approximately per annum. For further details, please contact John Earley of Property Partners Earley, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon on 0906626579/086-2551380, email jearley@propertypartners.ie, or log onto propertyparnters.ie.

Prime Strokestown farm of lands and forestry The week, John Earley of Property Partners Earley is offering to the market a prime farm of lands and forestry, consisting of approximately 67.6 acres and located at Oakfield, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, with the benefit of entitlements passing (being the estate of John Devine deceased). The property contains approximately 50 acres of prime quality agricultural lands, with an old stone residence standing thereon, as well as a cattle crush and pen servicing. Set adjacent is approximately 17 acres of maturing forestry that is approximately sixteen-years-old (four payments remaining), selling with the lands. The lands, comprised in Folio RN13287, are located approximately 4km from Strokestown off the L1421. Services include mains water. The auctioneers are inviting all viewings and offers to sell. Entitlements: Estimated value of say €5,700 approximately per annum. For further details, please contact John Earley of Property Partners Earley, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579/086-2551380, email jearley@propertypartners.ie, or log onto propertypartners.ie.

PROPERTY PARTNERS EARLEY

PRSA No. 001481

NEW TO THE MARKET 4 BEDROOM DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

CIRCULAR ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN F42 DW29 AMV: €175,000

Built in 1960s, the property is presented in good condition, and is in need of some modernisation throughout and sits on a generous and well maintained site of Approx. 0.42 acres. Living accommodation of the bungalow consists of a porch, entrance hall, living room, kitchen, second living room/ dining room, 4 bedrooms and main bathroom. There is a wheelchair accessible entrance to the rear. Ideally located in the centre of Roscommon Town and within walking distance of all amenities The property is heated via oil fired central heating, a solid fuel stove with back boiler in the kitchen, and 2 solid fuel feature fireplaces in the living rooms. Double glazed windows are fitted throughout. Externally there is a Approx. 0.42 acre site with mature lawns, shrubs and hedging to the front sealed with a lovely stone wall. Side access leads to the spacious yard with a large storage shed and chipping driveway provides ample private parking. BER E1 The Auctioneer now invites immediate viewings and all offers to sell

FOR SALE

4 Bedroomed Detached Residence with 1 Bedroomed Apartment located on a large site approx. 1.6 acres with further development opportunity (Subject to Planning) LOCATED AT

CARROWROE, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON F42 XK58 OPEN TO OFFERS AFTER €200,000 TO SELL The property is presented in good condition and is being sold as is. The property benefits from a 1 bedroom/1 bathroom granny flat. House: comprising of an entrance hall, living room, kitchen, dining room, bathroom W.C. and 5 bedrooms in all. Heated via oil fired central heating and a solid fuel stove with back boiler. Total area: Approx. 1,600 sq ft Externally the property sits on approx 1.65 acre site with 2 storage sheds and tarmac driveway. Carrowroe is situated 2 minutes drive from Roscommon Town. BER D2 Legal: Padraig Kelly, Stroketown Tel 071 96 33666 The Auctioneer now invites immediate viewings and all offers to sell

NEW TO THE MARKET A CHARACTER 2 BEDROOMED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

TONLAGEE, ROSCOMMON F42 AX78 AMV: OFFERS AFTER €125,000 TO SELL

A most attractive and character 2 bedroomed countryside bungalow residence standing on a large site area of approx 0.56 of an acre in a select residential district close to Roscommon Town. The property is presented for sale in excellent condition throughout having been completely renovated in recent years. • Special Features: • Double glazed uPVC windows and doors. • OFCH central heating system with solid fuel stove in the kitchen area. • Open fireplace to sitting room, and 1st bedroom. • All mains services connected with septic tank on site. Gravelled driveway to the side. A property that must be viewed to be appreciated and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER E2 Legal: Geraldine Scully, Messers Ferry and Co, Solicitors, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10. 01 6269475.

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie of Professional ipav Institute Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Auctioneer & Valuers Out of office contact John on 086 2551380 PSRA Licence No. 001481

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

PropertyPeople

SEAMUS SEAMUS CARTHY CARTHY SALE TYPE TAGLINE NEW TO THE MARKET SALE TYPE TAGLINE SALE TYPE TAGLINE SALE TYPE TAGLINE

Maryville, Roxboro, Roscommon F42 X640

3 Bedroom bungalow with fully serviced detached outbuilding conveniently set on a mature site within walking distance to Roscommon Town. Guide Price: €250,000

 Property 1 key feature 1  Property Property11key keyfeature feature21  Property Property11key keyfeature feature32  Property 1 key feature 3

AMV: ¤000,000 AMV: ¤000,000

SALE TYPE TAGLINE TO THE MARKET SALE TYPE NEW TAGLINE

AMV: ¤000,000

SALE TYPE TAGLINE

Knockalaghta, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon, F45 Y953

10 Antogher Road, Roscommon Town F42 YA03

4 Bedroom family home with adjoining garage, set in the sought after Antogher Road, in the heart of Roscommon Town. Guide Price: €350,000

SALE TYPE TAGLINE SALE TYPE TAGLINE

Ardkeenagh, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon F45 PW20

SALETO TYPE TAGLINE NEW THE MARKET

SALE TYPE TAGLINE

ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME, TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME,  Property 2 key feature 1 TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE  Property Property22key keyfeature feature21  Property Property22key keyfeature feature32 AMV: ¤000,000  Property 2 key feature 3

4 Bedroom two storey family home on 1.35 Acres with the benefit of a large agricultural outbuilding set on the outskirts of Tulsk Village. Guide Price: €250,000

ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME, TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME,  Property 5 key feature 1 TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE  Property Property55key keyfeature feature21  Property Property55key keyfeature feature32 AMV: ¤000,000  Property 5 key feature 3

TYPE TAGLINE NEW TO THESALE MARKET

AMV: ¤000,000

ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME, TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME,  Property 3 key feature 1 TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE  Property Property33key keyfeature feature21  Property Property33key keyfeature feature32 AMV: ¤000,000  Property 3 key feature 3

SALE TYPE TAGLINE NEW TO THE MARKET SALE TYPE TAGLINE

AMV: ¤000,000

Carrownalassan, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon F42 PX23

AMV: ¤000,000

ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME, TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME,  Property 4 key feature 1 TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE  Property Property44key keyfeature feature21  Property Property44key keyfeature feature32 AMV: ¤000,000  Property 4 key feature 3

AMV: ¤000,000 SALE TYPE TAGLINE VIEWINGS NOW AVAILABLE SALE TYPE TAGLINE

5 Bedroom detached family home set on 2.1 acres benefiting from 2 no. detached outbuildings comprising large Workshop/Garage and 3 no stable facility with tack room. Guide Price: €300,000

ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME, TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME,  Property 6 key feature 1 TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE  Property Property66key keyfeature feature21  Property Property66key keyfeature feature32 AMV: ¤000,000  Property 6 key feature 3

Traditional 3 bedroomed two storey house presented in good condition and set on a large mature site c. 1.21 Acres and offers a range of outbuildings including a new fully serviced metal cladded garage. Guide Price: €130,000

16 The Spinney, Roscommon Town F42 HK02

Attractive two bedroom Mid Terraced ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME, Townhouse ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME, TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE COUNTY, POSTCODE ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME, convenient to TOWN, ADDRESS LOCALITY, STREET NAME,  Property 7 key feature 1 Property 8 key feature 1 all amenities in  TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE TOWN, COUNTY, POSTCODE  Roscommon Town. Property Property Property77key keyfeature feature21 Property88key keyfeature feature21   Property Property Property77key keyfeature feature32 Property88key keyfeature feature32 AMV: Guide ¤000,000 AMV: ¤000,000  Property 7 key feature 3 Price: €150,000  Property 8 key feature 3

AMV: ¤000,000

090 66 30001 090 66 30001

www.reacarthy.ie www.reacarthy.ie

Pictured is a four-bedroomed house located at 9 The Fairways that was recently sold by REA Seamus Carthy.

AMV: ¤000,000

PSRA Licence No: 002782

REA Seamus Carthy’s sales of the week REA Seamus Carthy are pleased to advise that they have closed the sale of a number of properties this week, including two residential properties in Ro-

scommon Town at 12 Antogher Road and 9 The Fairways. We also successfully completed the sale of a residential property at Cloonliss Lodge, Mount

Pictured is a parcel of land in Elphin that was recently sold by REA Seamus Carthy.

Talbot, together with two parcels of land in Strokestown and a parcel of land in Elphin. The property market is extremely active

Pictured is a four-bedroomed residence located at Cloonliss Lodge in Mount Talbot that was recently sold by REA Seamus Carthy.

at the moment, and if you are considering selling in 2021, we now have a substantial list of underbidders seeking quality family homes and landholdings through-

out the county. Contact Seamus in confidence today on 086-8035538, or contact our office on 090-6630001, email info@ reacarthy.ie, or log onto reacarthy.ie.

Pictured is a two-storey residence on Antogher Road that was recently sold by REA Seamus Carthy.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Classifieds

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

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

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

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

090 66 25818 086 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

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

087 2798704

CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Chimney CCTV Inspection OIL BOILERS SERVICED Burners Repaired CARPETS CLEANING Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY SWEEP • Open fire, stove, ranges • All flues and chimneys • Power brushed & vaccumed • No mess, no fuss • CCTV camera inspections • Detailed report and CCTV recording provided for insurance claims • Fully insured Also available for powerwashing and gutter cleaning

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction l

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV Inspections l Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Fergal 086 1016899

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

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

VHI and Laya Covered

COMPUTERS DC Computer Services Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

NO FIX NO FEE

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

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

COUNSELLING

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

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

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

GARDENING

CORBETT

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

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

087 6558597

Contact Luke on

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

085 7359120

086 8936012

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock of parts available and can be fitted on sprayers All sprayers are required to be tested every 3 years according to Dept. of Agriculture regulations. Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

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

< FOR SALE: Round bales of straw. Can be delivered. Tel: 087 2781024

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l l

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

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

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

087 2346364

CALL FOR CONSULTATION/QUOTATION 086 1597628 / 086 2215570 Tel: 071 9664086 Email: info@abbeytreeservices.ie

LIFE COACH

Mindset Life Coach

GATELY GARDENING

l Personal

www.parklawntreeservices.

Online

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

Development/Life Coaching l Membership Club l Workshops l Retreats CONTACT

Emer Watchorn

BSc. Arch Tech, HDip Executive & Life Coaching

087 7718842 website:

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

• Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured

Phone:

087 2721193

Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

REFLEXOLOGY

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

Tel: 087 2172281

PLUMBING

Plumbing & Maintenance

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

Mobile:

FARMING NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

GARDENING

094 96 20099 This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

fergalkelly@live.com

CHIROPRACTOR

DRIVING LESSONS

emerwatchorn lifecoach.com

REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)

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

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

PHYSICAL THERAPY

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

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

Registered Reflexologist

TERESA BURKE

BNS (Hons). M.Sc (Hons) (MNRRI) Give your mind and body a relaxing experience with a reflexology treatment. Through massage of the feet reflexology can • Rebuild energy levels in the body • Assist in relieving stress • Encourage relaxation • Improve general wellbeing Reflexology is based on the principle that the foot has “reflex” points that correspond to the various structures and organs throughout the body. Contact TERESA for appointment at 087 9001212 Brideswell, Co. Roscommon N37 EW20

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Classifieds PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch eagle blueprint

eagle blueprint A Home for LIfe

A HOME Home for A FORLIfe LIFE

Affordable plans/drawings

New builds & extensions

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Keith Heneghan for planning permission to construct domestic garage and retention permission for a revised site layout with revised site boundaries along with all necessary site works and ancillaries previously granted under PD/05/532 at Barnaboy, Brusna, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Michael Conway Conway Survey & Design Cashel, Ayle, Westport, Co. Mayo. Tel: 086 3417478 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Free consultation

087 2605 695

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Permission sought to (1) retain first floor attic conversion and (2) retain domestic garage and fuel store at Derryharraun East, Ballinlough on behalf of Michael Donlon.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that 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: Deane Associates, Williamstown. Tel: (094) 9643079

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Sean and Gillian McGarry intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to erect a Dwelling House, Domestic Garage, provide a sewerage system and a treatment plant, to provide secondary and tertiary treatment and all associated works at Lismurtagh Td., Tulsk, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost www.eagleblueprint.com Planning Notice of making a copy, at the offices of Planning Notice In accordance with the the planning authority during its provisions Partand 9, public opening hours. A submission In accordance with the provisions of Part 9,ofPlanning Development Regulations, ROSCOMMON COUNTY Development or change observation in ofrelation to the 2001 (S.I. No. 600 of 2001),Planning the Courtsand Service gives notice of the of use COUNCIL application may be made in writing to Regulations, 2001 (S.I. the premises, the former We are applying on behalf of Fairyland Dancehall, Racecourse Road,theRoscommon, planning authority on payment of a No. 600andofancillary 2001), the County Roscommon as a Courthouse facilities. The Board of Management of fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks Courts Service gives . Summerhill National School beginning on the date of receipt by the notice of the change planning authority of the application for Planning Permission The proposed changetowill consist of the of thepremises, area as a Courtroom and ancillary of use ofusethe and such submissions or observations construct a single storey facilities. the former Fairyland will be considered by the planning extension to include an Dancehall, Racecourse authority in making a decision on the additional classroom and Road, Roscommon, application. The planning authority 2 No SETDrawings rooms and withparticulars a link of the development will be available for inspection betweensubject to or may grant permission County Roscommon as a and 2.00pm - 4.00pm Monday to Friday for awithout periodconditions of six weeks corridor 10.00am and all-12.00pm associated or may refuse to Courthouse and ancillary beginning on date of this publication at: site development the works grant permission. facilities. at Crannagh Td, Drum, Signed: The proposed change Court Office, Government Buildings, Golfwill Links Road, Roscommon. Sean and Gillian McGarry Athlone,Roscommon Co. Roscommon. consist of the use of the area Signed: F42 NC84 as a Courtroom and ancillary AOL Design Ltd. facilities. Consulting&Engineers Drawings and particulars C/O Albert Looby, Service, Western Regional The Mall, Castlebar, Killeenboy,Courts Kilteevan, of theOffice, development will Co. Mayo Co Roscommon. be available for inspection Submissions and/or observations on the change of10.00am use, dealing with the proper Tel: (090) 66 28184 between Mobile: (086) 8167365 planning and sustainable development the area in which -the development is -12.00pm ofand 2.00pm The planning application bein writing to: situated, may bemay made 4.00pm Monday to Friday inspected or purchased at a fee for a period of six weeks not exceeding the reasonable cost Mr. Brendan J. McDonald, Regional Manager, Western Regional Office, Courts beginning onwesternro@courts.ie the date of of making Service, a copy, at the offices of The Mall, Castlebar, Co. Mayo or during the six week this publication at: the planning authority during its date period beginning on the of this publication. public opening hours. A submission Roscommon Court Office, or observation in relation to the Government Buildings, Golf application may be made in writing to Links Road, Roscommon. the planning authority on payment of a F42 NC84 & Courts Service, fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks Western Regional Office, The beginning on the date of receipt by the Mall, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. planning authority of the application Submissions and/or and such submissions or observations observations on the will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the change of use, dealing with application. The planning authority the proper planning and may grant permission subject to or sustainable development without conditions, or may refuse to of the area in which the grant permission. Send your

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for erection of dwelling house and domestic garage with septic tank and percolation area and ancillary site development works at Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon.

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

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

< HOUSE TO SHARE: Are you going to college in Galway for this term, 1 Bed and 1 Bathroom available to share in house with one other person, easy access, 3 buses from front gate. Tel: 086 8743326 < TO LET: Two bed, fully furnished apartment to let at Oakwood, Roscommon Town. Storage heating, all mod cons. Tel: 087 2711260

Submit your Classified online

development is situated, may be made in writing to: Mr. Brendan J. McDonald, Regional Manager, Western Regional Office, Courts Service, The Mall, Castlebar, Co. Mayo or westernro@ courts.ie during the six week period beginning on the date of this publication.

Classified advertisement to

PODIATRIST

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available

JC and LC English Grinds The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

Aoife Reilly BSc Pod, MChSI, SCPI (registered with VHI, AVIVA, LAYA & GloHealth)

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: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience

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

EVERY FRIDAY St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

For Bookings Contact:

College Road, For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803

(087) 707 5803 (Saturday & evening appointments available)

090 66 34633

Co Galway H53 D7W8

(Saturday & evening appointments available) Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, Co. Galway H53 D7W8 Open under Goverment + HSE Guidelines

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

Aidan O’Connor These classes are open to all higher level Second, Third, Fifth and Sixth Year students. In the interest of safety, and for student/parent convenience, classes will take place live each week on Zoom. Classes are interactive and a hard copy of the notes will be posted to the student’s home in advance. Assignments given to students for exam practice and feedback. Highly experienced tutor and excellent notes. Text or WhatsApp:

086-6078154

Email: asconnor@icloud.com

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

TAROT READINGS < TAROT READINGS: Tarot readings by Kerry Lee would you like to know what your future holds for you, based near Kilkerrin. Tel: 089 4256426

TUITION

ROSCOMMON

MATHS GRINDS

Now enrolling for September Experienced Higher Level Teacher Excellent results record Limited places available

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas) < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag• Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free. • 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439

Contact by phone/text:

< TURF: Good quality Hopper turf for sale. Can be delivered. Tel: 087 6810849

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

< TOP QUALITY TURF: 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone: 083 0684011

Lorraine 086 3688302

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

advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call

TUITION

The local paper!

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

AtYourService BLINDS

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

DOOR AND WINDOW SERVICE

CARS

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

Supply and fit uPVC Doors and Windows ONLY TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED Composite Doors, French Doors, Patio Doors in a wide range of styles and colours Also various styles and colours of uPVC Windows

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

DOORS/ WINDOWS

uPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

Repairs

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

Daily collection

INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE CLAIMS REPAIR LTD. CLAIMS CLAIMS REPAIR REPAIR LTD. LTD. INSURANCE CLAIMS LTD. CLAIMSREPAIR REPAIR LTD. CLAIMS REPAIR LTD.

PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS PROPERTY PROPERTY CLAIMS CLAIMS CONSULTANTS CONSULTANTS Property Claims Consultants PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS PROPERTY CLAIMSSERVICES CONSULTANTS LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES LOSS LOSS ASSESSORS ASSESSORS SERVICES PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES and Loss Assessors Services LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

Submit your Classified online

Loss • Approved Product Advisor • Member the PSAB-GI • Certified • • Certified DipDipinDip inLoss Loss • •Approved Approved Product Product Advisor Advisor • • Member •Member Member ofofthe ofPSAB-GI theofPSAB-GI • Certified Certified Dip ininLoss Approved Product Advisor the PSAB-GI Adjusting Adjusting • Certified Dip in Loss • Approved Product Advisor • • •Member ofby thethe PSAB-GI Adjusting Adjusting • Approved Member the Insurance • Regulated byCentral the Central Insurance by Central • •Member Member ofofofthe theof Insurance Insurance Regulated •Regulated Regulated Central the •Adjusting Certified Dip in Loss •Member Product Advisor • thebyMember of the PSAB-GI • Loss Loss Assessor Services Institute Ireland Bank Ireland Assessor Services Institute of Ireland • Regulated Bank of Ireland • Member of the Insurance the Central • Loss • • Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services Institute Institute ofofofIreland Ireland Bank Bank ofofIreland ofbyIreland

Adjusting

• Loss Assessor Services

KITCHENS

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder and lock supplied l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.

Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4

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

APA-PL, LA APA-PL,CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LA 091 380900 091 380900 091 091 380900 380900 091 091380900 380900 087 7371280 087 7371280 087 087 7371280 7371280 0877371280 7371280 087 info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.iewww.icr.ie www.icr.ie

Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Mountbellew, Co. Galway UnitUnit 12 12 Oranmore Oranmore Business Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | |Mountbellew, | Mountbellew, Co. Co. Galway Unit 12 Oranmore BusinessPark, Park,Oranmore, Oranmore,Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Mountbellew, Galway

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

Chris’s Window Service

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

Martin Hibbitt

Martin Hibbitt Martin Martin Hibbitt Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, APA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LACDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt

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

INSULATION

We steam clean all Domestic Roofs remove moss and can apply dye to roof tiles

Lowest price guaranteed

SHOWROOM:

Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

Michael: 089 9661849

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

INSURANCE CLAIMS

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

Ballinasloe, Co. Galway Cleaning Sheds, Painting Roofs and Hay Barns

TEL: (090) 96 88606

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

PAINTING CONTRACTORS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

DOORS/ WINDOWS

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

PAINTING

FARMING

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com (FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS OR ON-LINE/TEAMS)

086 2203335

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

Chimney Problems

Keen Prices

Gmail: gerrymartin198@gmail.com

• Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’

For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt:

Window and Door Replacement Double Glazing Units Replaced Maintenance Carried Out to Existing Windows and Doors

Gerry Martin:

Cleaning Services • Roscommon

- CCTV Camera Inspection

PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (E.G. RETIREMENT, NEW JOB, SEPARATION, ETC)

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

Tel: 087 0944027

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

CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (INCLUDING PUBLIC SECTOR) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (INCLUDING COMPETENCY-BASED QUESTIONS) CHANGING JOB / GET THAT PROMOTION!

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted. End of life certs can be provided. Also scrap metal

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

GUIDING & COACHING TOWARDS SUCCESS

Full replacement service provided and all work carried out to a high quality finish

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

Tel: 090

086 8229606

CAROLINE BURKE Career & Life Coaching

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

• ofMember • Regulated by the Central Institute Ireland of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Institute of Ireland

Bank of Ireland

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Classifieds

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

AtYourService

USEFUL SERVICES

HANDY MAN AVAILABLE

RECYCLING

Boarding and day care

Power Washing l Gutters Cleaned l Fitting Shower Doors l Bathroom Accessories l Tiling and Timber Flooring l Flat Pack Furniture Assembled l General Gardening Maintenance and Clean-up etc.

Telephone:

NO JOB TOO SMALL

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

Marie Farrell

Country Club Kennels

Curry, Strokestown RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

C astlerea ELV R ecycling L td ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 or Kenneth on 086 8044030 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd.

Tel: 090

USEFUL SERVICES

6621220

VETERINARY

087 2478609

CARPENTER AVAILABLE

PAINTER & DECORATOR

www. countryclubkennels.ie

for all types of work, including maintenace, roof repairs.

Call 087 646 7322

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

Evo Roofers Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Covering Athlone, Galway and surrounding areas

087 2596055 You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions

Please ring to make an appointment for the small animal clinic.

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

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

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

Call Mike

087 4340011

Free Quotations provided

Leaky Roof or Gutter? Call 085 2427727 Our Services: • New Roofing • Lead Valleys • Emergency Repairs • Attic Insulation • Fascia Soffits • Flat Roofs • Guttering/Downpipes • Chimney Repair • Ridge Pointing • Roof Cleaning

086 4679798 < PAINTER & DECORATOR AVAILABLE: For all your painting needs, keen and competive prices. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802

email: evoroofing122@gmail.com

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

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

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

087 9657933 or 090 6626752

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

USEFUL SERVICES

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

086 2437376

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

087 9795226

Roof Cleaning and Resealing All types of roofs cleaned down, painted Tegral Roof paint applied All work fully guaranteed Fast and efficent

Telephone: 089 9899 912

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

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

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

80,000 LOCAL people every week!

www.evoroofers.com

Phone: 090 6400177

USEFUL SERVICES

P’Nuts

Powerwashing Service

• Agri Sheds • Slatted Sheds • Driveways • Cobblestones • Footpaths • Patios • Yards NOW DOING Drain Cleaning and Unblocking

Residential, Commercial & Agricultural Call Padraig

086 602 7509

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

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KELLY Nellie Feevaghmore, Dysart, Co. Roscommon (14th Anniversary) Who passed away on 8th September 2007

O’BOYLE Thomas and Mary Kate Newtown, Ballydooley, Co. Roscommon

HEALY AUSTIN (Jnr.)

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

O’CONNOR (nee Mulryan)

Ann (Nancy) Ballinamore Bridge (8th Anniversary)

16 Oaklawn Drive, Roscommon (24th Anniversary) September 5th

• Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

Scrine, Athleague, www.brianmuraystone.com Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com

In loving memory of Mum and Dad

No birthday card to send you, for there is no address, only a beautiful garden where you have gone to rest. A day that’s filled with sadness, returns to us today, to mark the day you closed your eyes and quietly passed away. Nothing can dim the face we loved, or the memory of your smile, the countless things you did for us, to make our lives worthwhile. Our hearts still ache with sadness, our secret tears still flow, for what it meant to lose you no one will ever know.

We look back in fondness everyday, at the joyful times we had. No one could wish for such a perfect pair, as our special Mum and Dad. We are grateful for what you taught us, and we are grateful for your love, and we know that you watch over us from your place up above. Although you’re missed so dearly here, and so many tears we’ve cried, it is so sweet and fitting that you sleep softly side by side. You shared your love and life on earth, many precious times together, now we see both of you, back side by side, forever.

Lovingly remembered by your daughters Mary, Margaret, Una, Bernadette and Joan, sons-in-law Bernie, Michael, Tony and grandchildren. R.I.P.

MONTH’S MIND HUGHES

(18th Anniversary and Birthday 5th September) In loving memory of Gladys Hoare 21 Circular Road, Roscommon, who died on September 1st 2003.

Gladys and James’s wedding anniversary 19th September The world changes from year to year our lives from day to day. But the love and memory of you shall never pass away.

Loved and missed always by your daughters, sons, daughters-in-law, sons-inlaw, grandchildren, great -grandchildren, relatives and friends.

When you come to my grave, though you may cry, I did not leave, I did not die. I continue to love you from this great height, surrounded by wonderful radiant light. I have gone on a journey and now I am home, grieve not for me, I am not alone. Though sometimes I may seem so far away, know that I’m with you, each and every day.

Loved and dearly missed, Mam, Assumpta, Liz, Siobhan, David, Elma, Megan, Mikayla and Zoe x

(nee Murphy)

Maureen

Loved and remembered always by Denis, Marie, Teresa, Phyllis and Valerie. Anniversary Mass in Dysart Church on Friday, 3rd September at 7.30pm.

HOARE Gladys

Special memories of Austin today and always.

GERAGHTY Michael (Mickey)

Beautiful memories are wonderful things, they last ‘til the longest day. They never wear out, they never get lost, and can never be given away. To some you may be forgotten, to others a part of the past but to us who loved and lost you, your memory will always last.

Sadly missed by husband Padraic, daughters Marie, Karen and Barbara, sons Joe and Seamus, daughters-inlaw Valerie and Lorraine, sons-in-law Mike, Ciaran and Manus, granddaughters Ciara, Aoife, Naoise and Suin and grandsons Joshua, Aodhan, Odhran and Fionnan. Anniversary Mass in St. Brendan’s Church, Toghergar on Sunday, 5th September at 9.30am.

Mount Mary, Ballygar, Co. Galway (10th Anniversary – 1st September)

We the family of the late Maureen Hughes wish to thank all those that supported us and sympathised with us on the loss of our beloved Maureen. A special thanks to our relatives, neighbours and many friends for your continued support at this difficult time. To all that attended the funeral and took part in the Guard of Honour a sincere thank you. Thank you to everyone who sent Mass cards, telephoned, emailed and sent messages of condolences. Thank you to Fr. Louis Lohan for leading prayers at our house and for the beautiful Funeral Mass, it was a fitting tribute to Maureen. To the amazing musicians and singers Billy Hough, Declan Walsh, Gerard Cunningham, Kevin Noone and Owen Kenny your music was very touching and special during the mass and in the graveyard and helped us to reflect on our beloved Maureen. David Moran your professionalism and kindness shown to us throughout the difficult days will always be remembered. Thank you. We would like to thank all the staff in the ICU at UCHG for your care and kindness shown to Maureen and the family during her final days. The gravediggers, our neighbours from Ballinamore Bridge, thank you for preparing Maureen’s resting place. To Matthew and the staff at Hughes of Ballinamore Bridge thank you for the refreshments after the mass. To those who helped in any way, your contribution made our loss bearable. As it would not be possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. Maureen’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place on Friday, September 3rd in Tohergar Church at 7pm.

Treasured memories of a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Ann (Nancy) O’Connor (nee Mulryan), late of Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, who died on September 7th 2013

Three little words “forget me not” they don’t say much but mean a lot. Forget you not we never will ‘cos in our hearts we keep you still. No matter how we spend our days. No matter what we do no morning dawns no evening falls without a thought of you.

Much loved, dearly missed by Mary, Kelly Ann, Philip, Val, Danny, Emily and Ollie. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday, 4th September at 7.30p.m.

McMANUS (nee Wall) Maura J. Castle Street, Roscommon (19th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Maura, who died on 7th September 2002 Forever in our thoughts.

Sadly missed by Vincent, Vincent Jnr., Conor, Anthony and Mark. Masses offered. We also remember Con and Bridie Wall, Ardsallagh, whose anniversaries occur around this time.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

SHERLOCK Margaret and Pat also remembering Patrick (Brother) In loving memory of our dear parents Patrick and Margaret Sherlock late of the Walk Road, Roscommon. Margaret Sherlock, The Walk, Roscommon who died in December 1979 and Pat Sherlock, The Walk, Roscommon who died on 1st September 1987 and our dear brother Patrick who died 6th March 2018

Margaret

Pat

Patrick

O Sacred Heart of Jesus in whom we trust and pray, grant the souls of Pat, Margaret and Patrick eternal rest today.

Remembered by their son Martin, daughters Mary, Philomena, Patricia and all the family. Anniversary Mass in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Wednesday, 1st September at 11am.

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES MURPHY Gerry The Walk, Roscommon Who passed away on September 2nd 2013 (8th Anniversary) R.I.P.

GACQUIN Ellen (Nellie) Kilderney, Curraghboy

In loving memory of Ellen (Nellie) Gacquin, Kilderney, Curraghboy whose 4th anniversary occurs on 5th September 2020.

Lonely is the home without you, life to us is not the same; all the world would be like heaven, if we could have you back again. May the God of Love and Mercy, care for our loved one who is gone, and bless with consolation, those left to carry on.

Always Loved and remembered and sadly missed by the Murphy family. Gerry’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 4th September at 11am.

McDERMOTT Niall Ard Coman, Roscommon (4th Anniversary) Who died on 8th September 2017.

We’re missing you a little more each time we hear your name. We’ve cried so many tears yet our hearts are broken just the same. We miss our times together things in common we could share, but nothing fills the emptiness now you’re no longer there. We’ve so many precious memories to last our whole life through, each one of them reminders of how much we’re missing . you

Loved always by his mother Mary and sisters Clodagh and Sile, brother-in-law Niall and family. Anniversary Mass will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Wednesday, 8th September at 11am.

In loving memory of Willie Carroll late of Clare, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon who died on September 7th, 2016 R.I.P. Your memories are so precious your presence missed so much you will always be remembered and missed by all of us. Our thoughts are always with you, in a very special way not just on your anniversary, but every single day. You always had a smile to share a laugh, a joke and time to care a kindly nature, warm and true many lovely memories we have of you.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 5th September at 10am.

What we’d give if we could say “Hello Grandad” in the same old way. To hear your voice and see your smile, to sit with you and chat a while. So if you have a Grandad cherish him with care for you’ll never know the heartache until you see his empty chair.

A silent thought, a quiet prayer for a special person in God’s care.

Always remembered by his wife Rose and family.

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

O’ROURKE (Née Keane) Annie

DAVIS Anne (nee Connolly) Shirley, Solihull, U.K., formerly of Fairymount, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 5th January 2021

Ard Aoibhinn, Ardsallagh, Roscommon Town, and formally of Watford, England, and Doohoma, Co. Mayo Who passed away peacefully at her home on August 8th 2021, surrounded by her family.

Lovingly remembered by your wife Ethel, sons Pat, Donal, Sean, daughters Anne, Mary, Kate, Lorna, sons-in-law and daughters-in-law.

Scrine, Rahara, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who died on September 1st 2008 (13th Anniversary)

MONTH’S MIND

Clare, Strokestown (5th Anniversary)

Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by her son William, daughter Maureen, daughters-inlaw Carmel and Rosaleen, grandchildren Colm, Suzanna and Raymond.

FITZGERALD James (Jimmy)

We think of you in silence we often speak your name but all we have are memories and your photo in a frame. Your resting place we visit and place flowers there with care but no-one knows the heartache as we turn and leave your there.

CARROLL Willie

GRANDAD

Lovingly remembered by all your grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon on Sunday, 5th September at 11am.

The family of the late Annie O’Rourke (née Keane), Ard Aoibhinn, Ardsallagh, Roscommon Town and formally of Watford, England and Doohoma, Co. Mayo who died on the 8th of August 2021 peacefully in her 90th year, in the loving and devoted care of her husband Peter and family, would like to thank most sincerely all those that sympathised with them on the loss of Annie. Our thoughts are with Peter, Annie’s sisters Bridget, Mary (pre-deceased), and the wider family and close friends who will always miss her kind and loving ways. We are eternally grateful to our many friends, neighbours, and extended family who attended, sent mass cards and letter, phone calls, and left condolences online. Our thanks to Peter and Annie’s neighbours and friends who formed a Guard of Honour at her removal and to those who lined the routes for Annie’s final journeys. We sincerely thank in particular the doctors, nurses, and staff of Galway University Hospital (St. Michael’s Ward), the Palliative Care Team in Galway and Roscommon, Portiuncula Hospital, and the Family Care Practice, Roscommon, who provided Annie with great care, assistance and compassion. Thanks to Pat and Gillian Smyth, Smyth’s Funeral Directors, Roscommon and Johnny and Sinead Gallagher, Barrett’s Funeral Directors, Doohoma for their professionalism, compassion and support. Our sincere thanks also to the grave diggers in Doohoma for the immaculate and respectful work on Annie’s final resting place and to Michael Cosgrove for the beautiful music and singing in the church. Our thanks also for the live streaming of Annie’s Mass, a special comfort for her sister Bridget, sister-in-law Bridget, and others that could not attend. We would like to thank most sincerely Rev. Fr. Pravin, who visited Annie and prayed with her, as well attending at her removal. Sincere thanks also to Rev. Fr. Cribben and Rev. Fr. Ginley for their beautiful and comforting mass and prayers at the grave side. Annie was a very religious lady and would have great appreciation for the priests who prayed with her before and after her passing. We are very appreciative of everyone’s thoughtfulness in adhering to the restrictions in place at the time of Annie’s funeral. As it would be impossible to thank you all individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Month’s Mind Mass for Annie will take place on Sunday, September 5th, 2021 at 11am Mass in the St. Pius X Church, Doohoma.

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Anne’s brother JP and daughters Suzanne and Dorian, son-in-law Jeff would like to sincerly thank all those who sympathised with us on Anne’s passing. To those who sent mass cards, texts messages and supported us at this sad time, we thank you. As it would not be possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all your intentions.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

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

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Appointments

PUBLIC NOTICES

WESTWARD SCANIA

An Chuirt Duiche The District Court Licensing (Ireland) Act 1833 Section 6 Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1960 Section 29 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF A LICENCE

Scania Importer - Ireland Vacancy - Parts Department Adviser/ Warehouse Operative

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB?

Dealing with Truck and Bus/Coach customers duties will include; • Identifying and Organising Parts for Workshop and Retail Customers. • Picking, Packing and Invoicing of Scania Dealer orders. • Dealing with phone enquiries from Retail Customers. • Ordering stock. • Goods inwards and Stock Control including binning of parts and inventory control • Manage and process Spare Parts returns and Service Exchange Parts. • General warehouse duties. Requirements. • PC literate. • Self-motivated. • Team player. • Able to work on own initiative. • Excellent communication skills and telephone manner. • Good attention to detail. • Driving and Forklift Licence an advantage.

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

TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633

Experience would be desirable, but if you have a knowledge of commercial vehicles and you are looking for a job which will offer excellent opportunities to progress please email CV to; P.J. Kelly, After Sales Parts Manager Email: pj.kelly@westwardscania.com Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, September 17th 2021.

EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

Service Matters is Ireland’s largest independent provider in the Managed Workwear and Hygiene Rental sector. We are currently recruiting for the following role:

Cleaner

We are currently seeking a cleaner for our office in Roscommon Town. • 20 hours per week • Start time 7am • Must be eligible to work in Ireland

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Immediate start Please email CVs to: recruitment@servicematters.ie or apply in writing to our office

Golf Links Road | Roscommon | F42 DW26 | 090 662 7477 www.servicematters.ie

COOK/CHEF REQUIRED Immediate start

MINIMUM 2 YEARS EXPERIENCE.

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

2 years experience in a similar role Good communication skills l A passion for quality food l l

If you think you can bring some creative talent to our team, please contact Anita on 087 2742844 or send your CV to Lespetitestartres@gmail.com

Required for local work in Roscommon, Athlone & Longford Immediate start available

To:

The Fire Officer, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 VR98 fire@roscommoncoco.ie

To:

The District Court Clerk, Roscommon District Court

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

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

Ballymurray, Roscommon

Contact Tom Crean on 086 81 645 83 or email your details in to info@tomcreanandson.ie Roscommon Office: 090 66 61047 Dublin Office: (01) 525 2029

SITUATIONS VACANT

Signed: Mahon Sweeney Solicitors LLP Solicitor for Applicant The Square, Roscommon, Roscommon

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

Experienced Painters Cleaner

TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Paul Carthy as nominee of Paul Carthy Limited of The Square, Roscommon, Roscommon, N/A intends to apply to the Annual Licensing Court to be held at the Court at Roscommon District Court on the 21st September 2021 at 10:30 for the TRANSFER to the Applicant of the Publican’s Licence (7-Day Ordinary) licence attached to the premises at Market Square, Roscommon, Roscommon in the court area and district aforesaid.

To: The Garda Superintendent, Castlerea Garda Station, Castlerea, Roscommon, F45 YX06 CourtPresenters.RosLong@garda.ie

The local paper!

Salary commensurate with experience and comprehensive training will be given to successful candidate.

District Court Area of Roscommon District No. 4 Paul Carthy as Nominee Applicant

80,000 LOCAL people every week!

Domestic, Commercial, Industrial

< CLEANER: Required 2/3 hours per week, Tulsk area. Te: 071 9639767 < CARER: Required to care for lady, Athleague/Fuerty/ Castlecoote area. Night time hours. Replies to: Box No: 2086 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon < TRAINEE COUNTER STORE PERSON: Required for busy Trade Counter and Store. Apply only by email. Send CV to: info@ mgfelect.com < WAITING AND KITCHEN STAFF REQUIRED: Horan’s Restaurant, Racecourse Road is hiring waiting and kitchen staff, part-time or full-time. Good rates paid. Tel: 086 8538519 or email: johnhoran042@gmail.com

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

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

Sports PEOPLE

Richael gearing up for final event

Richael Timothy will compete in her final event at the Tokyo Paralympic Games tomorrow (Friday) when she takes part in the Women’s Road Race. The Ballymoe woman said she “left it all out there” during the Road C1-3 Time Trial on Tuesday morning as she clocked a time of 30:55.24 for a 14th place finish. The former Roscommon Ladies foot-

baller described the event as the “hardest” she’s ever done. “I looked down at one point and my heart rate was 200. I went as hard I could,” she told reporters afterwards. The Irish para-cycling team has enjoyed a successful Games so far with Katie-George Dunlevy and Eve McCrystal taking gold on Tuesday while Gary O’Reilly also took bronze.

Pictured during the All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie Championship Semi-Final, (Roscommon vs Wexford), at Clane last weekend were Roscommon’s Niamh Coyle and Clodagh Jackman of Wexford. Photo: ©INPHO/Lorraine O’Sullivan

Seamus Duke’s Championship Watch Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC (Round 2) Group A: In what will be a very hard fought and intense tie, local bragging rights will be up for grabs once again as Clann na nGael and Pádraig Pearses do battle in Johnstown on Friday night at 8 pm. There is a doubt about Clann’s goal-scoring hero from their win against Strokestown, Ultan Harney, who is struggling with an injury. Ciaran Lennon was on fire in round one and Pearses will have to formulate a plan to deal with him. Pearses kept their heads against Western Gaels and did enough to prevail in injury-time. Maybe Pearses might have the edge. In the other match in Group A, both Strokestown and Western Gaels will be anxious to get that vital first win on the board after both sides lost narrowly in round one. This has the makings of a very close game but with home advantage in Frenchpark at 5.30 pm on Saturday I am giving a hesitant vote to Fergal O’Donnell’s men. Group B: When Elphin and Roscommon Gaels meet in Enfield on Saturday evening at 5 pm, both sides will be looking to im-

prove in attack after losing their respective first matches. Elphin were very competitive against Michael Glavey’s for most of the way while the Gaels missed a number of chances in their loss to Boyle. The Gaels look the better bet here but it could be close. Boyle and Michael Glavey’s travel to Dr. Hyde Park also on Saturday evening (6.30 pm) for an attractive looking clash. Glavey’s secured a good win against Elphin with Darragh Heneghan’s late goal, while Daire Cregg was very impressive for Boyle as they accounted for Roscommon Gaels. Boyle’s superior firepower looks the key to resolving this one. Group C: Reeling from their first round defeat at the hands of Oran, St. Brigid’s will need to re-focus for their clash with Tulsk in Kiltoom on Saturday night (8 pm). The champions were totally off colour against Oran and will need to get their act together here. Tulsk will be lifted by a fine performance against St. Croan’s but this is a step up. Surely there cannot be another shock here? Brigid’s to win. Oran’s surprise element is now firmly gone after their magnifi- Ballymoe para-cyclist, Richael Timothy, takes part in her final even at the Tokyo cent performance against St. Brigid’s and it will be interesting Paralympic Games when she competes in the Women’s Road Race this Friday. to see how they cope with expectation now. They entertain St. Croan’s on Sunday in Rockfield at 3 pm and anything other than a home win would constitute a shock.

Mulryan Construction IFC (Round 2)

Boyle manager, Cian Smith, will be hoping to make it two wins on the bounce this Saturday when his side takes on Michael Glavey’s at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Group A: ‘Game of the Weekend’ is surely the local derby between Fuerty and Creggs on Saturday in Fuerty at 6 pm. Both sides had very good wins in their opening round and will be confident of winning this. At home, Fuerty might just have enough. Shannon Gaels are at home in Croghan on Sunday against Castlerea St. Kevin’s at 1 pm. Castlerea are improving and should prevail in this clash but it will be close. Group B: Ballinameen and Kilbride are first into action on Friday night in Strokestown at 8 pm. Both sides lost their opening round matches and will be anxious to put a win on the board. Kilbride look to have more in attack and they should emerge. In a local derby, Clann na nGael and St. Aidan’s met in Kiltoom on Saturday at 5 pm. There won’t be much between these two sides, both of whom are looking for their second win. Aidan’s are improving and might just have the edge. Group C: St. Dominic’s were probably the most impressive team in round one and they will be expecting to account for Éire Óg when the sides meet in Knockcroghery on Saturday at 6 pm. They look a banker bet. In Kilmore, the home side’s backs are to the wall after a bad defeat to St. Dominic’s in round one and it doesn’t get any easier when St. Faithleach’s come calling on Sunday at 1 pm. The Murtaghs should ensure that the Ballyleague men notch up another win.

Short passes Camógs set for All-Ireland final!

Roscommon’s Minor Camogie team sealed their place in this weekend’s All-Ireland ‘B’ Shield Final with a comprehensive victory over Down on a scoreline of 4-19 to 1-3 last weekend in Down. The Rossies led by 0-10 to 1-3 at half-time before totally dominating the second period. The team is managed by David Bolger of Four Roads and they will take on Meath in this weekend’s All-Ireland final. While there was no championship last year due to Covid-19, Roscommon won the U-16 title two years ago and this talented group will be hoping to add yet more silverware this Saturday at Templeport, Co. Cavan.

Rossies named as U-20 stars

Four Roscommon footballers have been named among the top twenty players in this year’s Eirgrid U-20 All-Ireland Football Championship. Colin Walsh (Oran) and Paddy Gavin (Clann na nGael) were named in the half-back line while Daire Cregg (Boyle) and James Fitzpatrick (Oran) were among the forwards. The Top 20 was dominated by All-Ireland champions Offaly with six players, while The Faithful County’s Jack Bryant was also named as Player of the Year and manager Declan Kelly took the Manager of the Year award.

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses Racing this evening, Thursday, is on at Powerstown Park in Clonmel with a flat card starting at 4.15 pm. There is also a flat card on the all-weather in Dundalk this afternoon starting at 3 pm replacing the postponed Laytown meeting. Tomorrow, the racing is again on the flat at Down Royal away at 3.45 pm and over the jumps at nearby Kilbeggan at 4.05 pm. On Saturday, first race at Proudstown Park near Navan’s flat card is away at 1.20 pm. There is also a national hunt meeting at Wex-ford with tapes away for the first at 1.05 pm. Sunday is a blank day on the calendar and racing returns to the west on Monday with a two-day in Ballybrit in Galway. National hunt racing on Monday at 4.05 pm and flat racing on Tuesday. On Saturday, ITV covers four races from Haydock, two from Kempton and two from Ascot. The favourite Gufo narrowly denied Aidan O’Brien more Group 1 success in the United States as Japan had to settle for second in the Sword Dancer Stakes at Saratoga Springs, New York. Ballydoyle’s Santa Barbara and Bolshoi Ballet have claimed three Grade 1s between them in America this season.

Roscommon Review

There were eight races at Lenabane on Monday with the division of the Donate To The Coast To Curragh Cycle In Memory Of Pat Smullen Handi-

cap. The opening race, the Irish EBF Maiden for 2-Y-Os was won by the second favourite Jessica Harrington’s Corvigila, ridden by Shane Foley, who beat Gwan So and Tuwaiq, ridden by champion jockey Colin Keane for Ger Lyons by 4l and 3½l. The second, a fillies maiden race also sponsored by the Irish EBF for 2-Y-Os went to the Dermot Weld trained filly Harannda. The winner, owned by the Aga Khan, came down the outside with a late run pipping Punakha and Tellthemi’mhere by 1¼l and the same. She ran very green and will improve for this run. In the third, the first division of the Donate To The Coast To Curragh Cycle In Memory Of Pat Smullen Handicap Chavajod hit the front at the furlong marker and stayed on to easily win by 3½l and 1¾l from Designer Cailin and Faraah. The winner is trained by Michael O’Callaghan and was ridden by champion jockey Colin Keane. Division 2 was won by 16/1 shot Tai Sing Yei ridden by Donagh O’Connor for Johnny Levins from Jazz Dreamer and Upstate New York. The Class Grass Handicap for 3-Y-Os+ saw the favourite, Big Baby Bull, beaten by the second favourite Offiah by ¾l, Swiss Army Officer was 2½l further back in third. Completing a double on the day for Colin Keane, the winner was Ger Lyons’s 1000th career winner. The sixth race, the Oran

Handicap, saw the best finish of the day as Dylan Brown McGonigle on the favourite Bamboo Bay held by a short head and the same from Blue Shadow and Uncharted with Pin Your Hopes ¾l away in fourth. The apprentice maiden went to Joseph O’Brien’s Monty’s Way and Mikey Sheehy with the dual performer Cheltenham Triumph Hurdle winner Duffle Coat runner-up, beaten 1¾l, Desert Camp filled the other minor role. In the Roscommon Racecourse Handicap, for 3-Y-Os+, Noel Meade made the journey home from Down Royal via Lenebane and saw jockey Colin Keane complete his treble on Too Bright who was backed into 5/2 favourite from 4/1. The 3-YO gelding beat Rock Ya Boy Ya and Classical Memories by 4½l and 4¾l. Keane, who reached 100 winners for the season in Navan on Saturday with the Lyons trained Baretta, is now on 106 winners of the season following a double for Ger Lyons in Gowran Park yesterday and is chasing Joseph O’Brien’s record of 126 for a season.

Kilbeggan Preview

Racing at Kilbeggan tomorrow starts at 4.05 pm with the Pat Doyle Memorial Hurdle over 3m for 4-Y-Os+ with 14 runners followed by the Sean Hughes Memorial Maiden Hurdle over 2m and again 14 go to post. The Belvedere Gardens & Park Handicap hurdle is divided

by Tom Red

with 16 in each division bring hurdle racing to a close. The beginner’s chase is sponsored by the Midland Breeders and has a disappointing six runners with twelve going to post for the Kilsaran Handicap Chase. The closing bumper has nine runners open to amateur and claiming riders under INHS rules.

Racing News

Jim Bolger’s Poetic Flare is declared in Prix du Moulin at ParisLongchamp on Sunday but could divert to the Irish Champion Stakes on Saturday week. The colt has won the Newmarket 2000 Guineas and Royal Ascot’s St James’s Palace Stakes and ground conditions will dictate where he runs. Ballydoyle have Order Of Australia and Lope Y Fernandez in the nine runners where they will face British raiders Baaeed and Snow Lantern. An Taoiseach Micheal Martin announced that, from next Monday (September 6th), there will be an easing of attendance restrictions at organised indoor and outdoor events. The detailed arrangements published by the Government on Tuesday evening included the new regulation that 75 percent of capacity will be available at outdoor events from the start of next week for vaccinated individuals. This is good news for racing who are allowed to admit 500 patrons at the moment. Davy Russell hopes to return

Bamboo Bay, rail, holds on from Blue Shadow and Uncharted nearest.

to track in the next few weeks. The Cheltenham Gold Cup and Grand National-winning rider has been on the side-line after nearly a year out through injury. He is looking forward to renewing his association with Gordon Elliott whose ban ends this day, Thursday, week.

Point-to-Point Scene It is with great regret that I start this season’s point to point column with the news, carried in last week’s edition of Roscommon People, that the local County Roscommon Hunt is winding up and not hunting this season after 22 years and with it the County Roscommon Point-to-Point meeting will end. The hunt ran a very successful point-to-point which started at Lisbride out-

side Roscommon town in 2002 thanks to the permission of the owner Michael McSharry and transferred to Rockfield in Oran in 2010 thanks to permission of Michael and Pat Bailey. In 2014 at Rockfield Jim Dreaper trained America to win the 4-Y-O, Peter Maher trained banks specialist Ballyboker Bridge to win the W-of1 and in the Open Luska Lad trained by Shark Hanlon won with Rachel Blackmore on board. Joseph O’Brien turned out his first official winner in Rockfield in 2015 when Minella For Me won the 5-Y-O geldings maiden. Those were the days let us hope their return is not far away. The season will start at on the 25th of this month at Oldcastle when the Ballymacad Hunt race.

Shor t putts (News from local golf clubs)

Athlone Tom O’Connor won the Senior Scratch Cup with a score of 70 while Niall O’Carroll was second with 73. The best nett score came from James Joyce with 74. The Junior prize went to Paul Costello with 75 with Anthony Murphy of Rush Golf Club in second place with 78. Ross McNeill had the best nett with 72. T. Meagher won the recent AWGS with 33 points and the Ladies’ Three Ts competition was won by Annemarie Hynes with 38 points. Carol McGetrick was top of the 97 Club leaderboard with 24 points on August 26th. This weekend sees the Gents’ Hodson Bay Cup competition being played on Saturday and Sunday.

Boyle Lochlainn Conboy, Michael McHale and Conor Hamill won the annual fundraiser for Crumlin Children’s Hospital in Boyle last weekend with 86 points. Adrian King, Sean Heslin and John McGuinn (84) were second while Colin O’Sullivan, Tadhg Lowe and Shane O’Dowd (83) finished third. Mandy Toolan’s Lady President’s Day took place on August 22nd and this year’s winner was Marie Hanmore-Cawley. Tish Perry was runner-up, Liz Dwyer took gross and Aisling Gaughran finished in third place. The 9-hole competition was won by Catherine Roddy. In the Men’s competition, Niall Kearney topped the leaderboard with Lee McKillen second,

Gerry Nerney third and Lochlainn Conboy with the best gross score. Well done to Lewis Shaw’s Connacht Shield team who enjoyed a good win over Castle Dargan on Monday, 23rd. The team will play Rosses Point next Monday.

Carrick Carrick’s Golfer of the Year leaderboard is as follows: 1st: Shamzuri Hanifa (47 points); 2nd: Keith Duignan (36); 3rd: Daniel Egan (33). Cian Harmon (79) leads the Rookie Golfer of the Year with Emmett Herbert (68) second and David Clarke (49) third. The club hosted a fundraiser for the Jimmy Bruen team last week ahead of their All-Ireland matches in Belfast next week. 95 teams played in a two person Scramble with results to be published next week. Hilary Collins, meanwhile, was in exceptional form recently, setting a new course record in the Ladies’ section. Hilary posted a brilliant score of 76 gross in Phil McWeeney’s President’s Prize. Originally from Kells in Co. Meath, Hilary is a teacher at the community school in Carrick-onShannon and has been resident in Carrick for thirty years, representing the club on many occasions at inter-club level. Congratulations to Junior golfer Finan Farrell on his excellent scores throughout the President’s week. He shot 40 points in the Junior section and 39 in the Men’s section, winning the gross prize in the process. Well done also to Niall Keaney, who reached the semi-final of the Lynch Cup recently.

Castlerea There was a great turnout recently for the Cahill’s SuperValu matchplay with Deirdre Hawkshaw the outright winner in Group 1 and Elizabeth Devine the winner in Group 2. Maura Kelly and Kitty Harrington were the respective runners-up. Kathy Burke, meanwhile, was victorious in the Audrey O’Donoghue Cup with a great score of 65 nett. Margaret Waters was runner-up on 68. Kay Condon was the winner of the 9-hole competition with 39 points while Maureen Claffey was runner-up on 36. Friday night’s Scramble was won by John Carlos, Seán Flynn, and Bernie O’Farrell Pictured is team manager Cathal McConn and team members Simon and Allan Hill (all Roscommon Golf Club), who were members of the and this weekend it’s the turn of Captain Walker Connacht team which recently won the Interprovincial Championship. Michael Creaton as he hosts his Prize to the Ladies and Men.

Roscommon Everyone at Roscommon Golf Club was beaming with pride on Friday night last when Connacht beat Leinster 6-4 to win the Inter-provincial Championship for the first time since 2011 and just the third time overall. The club was well represented by team man-ager, Cathal McConn, and team members Simon Walker and Allan Hill. Congratulations to the three men and the Connacht team on a wonderful achievement. Open Week was also a resounding success in Roscommon recently and the club Athlone Golf President Anne Evans presents her prizes to the Men and Ladies wishes to thank all players, organisers and at Athlone Golf Club. Pictured (left to right): Margaret Egan (Ladies’ winner); sponsors. Anne Evans (President Athlone Golf Club), and Cillian Lynn (Men’s winner).

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

SportsPeople Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Work in progress at Creggs Rugby Club The new complex at Creggs Rugby Club moved to a new stage last week with the full steel frame outline having been constructed. The complex will house state-of-the-art dressing rooms on the ground floor, including two specifically designed for girls’ and women’s rugby. These will have individual shower cubicles as well as other userfriendly facilities. The first floor will have a large professional standard gym, clubroom and other facilities. The club asks all adult

players, members, parents and supporters to please continue to support the Creggs Club Lotto. The support is very much appreciated as the club continues to strive to provide great facilities for male and female players of all ages, as well as all members, parents, and visitors to the club.

Adult Rugby Creggs’ first team continued their good start to the season, following up on their 38-21 victory over Castlebar in the Cawley

Cup with a comprehensive win over Monivea on Sunday last. Creggs ran out 47-15 winners, scoring seven cracking tries in the process. We wish a speedy recovery to Tom Oates and Edward Clinton, who picked up injuries in the Monivea game. Creggs now have a bye in the third round of the Cawley Cup and their next outing will be away to Buccaneers in round four on September 19th. The team will be hoping to continue an unbeaten run in this competition that goes back

Well done to the four new capped Creggs players (pictured left-right:) Eoin McDonnell, Ciaran Corcoran, John McDonnell and Ben Finnerty.

nearly four years. The Creggs Development team will play their opening game of the season the weekend after next. First up will be the Curley Cup home game against Galwgians’ second team. Training continues for all first team, Development and U-20 players on Tuesdays at 8 pm and Fridays at 8.15 pm. New and returning players are always welcome. Creggs wish to congratulate all interprovincial representatives over the last couple of weekends and in the weekends to come. Well done to Hannah Coen for her involvement with the Connacht Women’s senior team against Leinster last weekend. Hannah started her rugby in Creggs three years ago and played for the Convent of Mercy in Roscommon also. Congratulations also to David Gacquin who played for the Connacht U-19s against Leinster in Donnybrook last Sunday. The club also offers congratulations to Roisin Maher who also played for the Connacht U-18 Girls against Leinster last Saturday at the Sportsground and Rachel McDonald who was on the extended squad. Finally, congratulations to a strong Creggs Rugby representation with the Con-

nacht U-18 Boys in their Inter-Pros. Lee Kilcoyne, DJ Hession, Eoin Kelly, and Ciaran Purcell were all involved.

Youth Rugby Creggs U-14 Girls train on Monday evenings at 7 pm while the U-16s and U-18s train on Mondays at 8 pm and Saturdays at 11.30 am. New players always welcome. The Girls U-18s are due to have their first participation game before the start of their league campaign against Ballina next weekend. Creggs U-13 Boys will return to training on Saturday, September 11th. The U-14 Boys return to training this Saturday at 12 pm in Creggs. This team will have their first participation game next Sunday against Galwegians in Creggs at 12 pm. The U-15s return to rugby on Tuesday, September 7th and will train Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 pm. The U-16s and U-17s are back in training on Tuesdays at 7 pm and the U15s continue training every Thursday at 7.30 pm. Keep an eye on Creggs’ Facebook page for updates and any enquiries please contact: Dave Purcell on 087-7000547.

BUCCANEERS Rugby Football Club Evan Galvin to skipper Pirates Evan Galvin has been named as Senior Captain of Buccaneers RFC as the rugby season builds up. Galvin was selected to skipper the Pirates last year, but due to the pandemic, that season was aborted, with the team having played just two Connacht League fixtures.

Backrower Galvin has come up through the club’s underage ranks and is a hard-working and dedicated member of the squad. He was a member of Buccs’ four-in-a-row Connacht Senior League winners 2015/16 to 2018/19, a period when the midlanders also captured two Connacht Senior Cup trophies.

Pictured is Faith Oviawe, who came on as a replacement in the women’s interprovincial game between Connacht and Leinster recently.

Juniors and U-20s in action on Sunday

Buccaneers Juniors head west on Sunday, where they face NUIG in Pool 1 of the Cawley Cup at Dangan. This Buccs side is youthful and exuberant and they will be hoping to build on their winning start against Monivea. The students however, will be keen to get that winning feeling too, having lost their opening encounter 31-24 at Castlebar. It seems a lively and entertaining affair is in prospect following the 2.30 pm kick-off. Buccaneers U-20s are also in action in Galway on Sunday when they commence their season with a tricky assignment away to Corinthians as the teams bid for ranking in the forthcoming Leinster League. The young Pirates have had no fixture yet, but many of their players have got game time in recent Senior and Junior matches. Hopefully Niall Quinn’s charges will hit the ground running.

Congratulations also to David Gacquin who played for the Connacht U-19s against Leinster in Donnybrook last Sunday.

Creggs Rugby offers congratulations to Roisin Maher who also played for the Connacht U-18 Girls against Leinster last Saturday at the Sportsground and Rachel McDonald who was on the extended squad.

Soccer results RDFL Premier Division Cloonfad United 1 Ballinasloe Town 2 Castlerea Celtic 1 Ballymoe FC 3 Moore United 2 Moylough ’79 6 RDFL Division One Ballinasloe Town B 4 Glen Celtic 1 Ballinagare Manor United 2 Roscommon United 4 CP Ajax 1 Dunmore Town 2 RDFL Division Two St. John’s Athletic B 2 Dunmore Town B 1 Roscommon United B 0 Boyle Celtic B 4 Rahara Rovers 0 Cam Celtic 5 RDFL Masters League Quarter-Final Strokestown United 0 Castlerea Celtic 4

Fixtures Pictured is Evan Galvin, the newly appointed senior captain of Buccaneers.

Buccs players in Interpros Buccaneers had a sizeable contingent of players involved on various Connacht squads at the weekend. Faith Oviawe came on as a replacement in the Women’s Interpro, which Connacht narrowly lost to Leinster. Eloise Clarke and Ivana Kiripati played on the U-18 Girls team against

Leinster, while four young Buccs were on the U-18 Youths squad – Dylan Bolger, Charlie Byrne, Robbie Byrne and Oisin Dolan. Aaron Burke, Lorcan Fallon and Adam Nash featured on the province’s U-19 squad, of which Luke Balsiger is also a panellist. The future looks bright at Buccaneers, so well done to all these young players!

Friday, September 3rd RDFL Division Two Skyvalley Rovers B v Ballymoe FC B. 8 pm Saturday, September 4th RDFL Masters Cup Semi-Finals (7.30 pm) Castlerea Celtic v Moore United Glen Celtic v Skyvalley Rovers/Colemanstown United Sunday, September 5th RDFL Premier Division (11 am) Boyle Celtic v Kilkerrin United Ballinasloe Town v Moylough ‘79 RDFL Division One Shiven Rovers v Skyvalley Rovers. 2 pm

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

SportsPeople

Roscommon’s Niamh Watson and Emma Tomkins of Wexford in action during last Sunday’s All-Ireland Camogie Premier Junior Championship semi-final in Clane. Pic: INPHO/Lorraine O’Sullivan

Roscommon manager Frank Browne was left with plenty to ponder following last Sunday’s All-Ireland Camogie Premier Junior Championship semi-final in Clane. Pic: INPHO/Lorraine O’Sullivan

Rossies put to the sword by rampant Wexford Tesco All-Ireland Camogie Premier Junior Championship semi-final

Wexford 3-18 Roscommon 0-8 < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s dreams of an All-Ireland final appearance in Croke Park on Sunday week were well and truly dashed by a hugely impres-

sive Wexford side in this one-sided semi-final played in perfect weather conditions at Clane, Co. Kildare last Sunday. An excellent win against Cavan in the quarter-final raised expectations among Frank Browne’s squad but they never got going against a slick and very skilful Model County side who never looked in trouble after

Teams and Scorers Wexford: Lara O’Shea; Clodagh Jackman (0-1), Aisling Halligan, Sinead Furlong; Ciara Donohue, Aideen Brennan, Aoife Dunne; Chloe Cashe (1-8, 8 frees), Roisin Cooney; Megan Cullen (1-1), Ciara Banville, Ailish Neville (1-0); Emma Tomkins (0-4), Emma Codd (0-3), Lisa Firman (0-1). Subs: Kate Devereux for Ciara Banville (44), Katie Smyth for Firman (47), Doireann Cullen for Neville (51), Grace Roche for Tomkins (56). Roscommon: Michaela Fallon; Chloe White-Lennon, Niamh Farrell, Eimear McNally; Rachel Dolan, Joanne Beattie, Áine O’Meara; Shauna Fallon (0-2,1 free), Niamh Coyle; Rachel Fitzmaurice, Niamh Watson (0-3), Rebecca Brennan; Kelley Hopkins, Nicola Crean (0-1), Leah Rowe (0-1). Subs: Niamh Conway for Rowe (45), Maeve Tiernan for Brennan (48), Sinead O’Brien (0-1) for Crean (55). Referee: Aaron Hogg (Clare)

the opening ten minutes. Roscommon deployed Rachel Fitzmaurice as a sweeper and early on she played very well and got on plenty of ball, but Wexford carried well out of defence and once their quicksilver forwards got enough possession, Roscommon were in all kinds of trouble. After almost ten scoreless minutes, Megan Cullen pointed for Wexford and when the same player powered through the Roscommon defence to score the opening goal of the game two minutes later, the writing was on the wall, even at that early stage. Wexford opened up after the first water break and Ailish Neville got their second goal in the 20th minute when her long-range shot ended up in the Roscommon net. Indeed, it took Roscommon thirty minutes to get their only score of the first half, a point from a Shauna Fallon free. But by the time the interval came the score was Wexford 2-7 Roscommon 0-1. The second half was very pedestrian as both sides brought on a number of

subs. Roscommon did have a goal chance in the 36th minute but Nicola Crean’s penalty was saved by Lara O’Shea and was cleared and that was the end of any flickering hope for Roscommon. Wexford’s third goal arrived in the 44th minute from Chloe Cashe. Roscommon did tag on a couple of scores before the finish and Niamh Watson scored some good points, but the game was already long over and Wexford were bound for Croke Park on the 12th September. After the game, Roscommon manager Frank Browne was very candid about what needs to be done for Roscommon Camogie to progress. “We won’t be making any excuses at all. In the first quarter we could have got a few scores but we hit a few into their goalkeeper’s hands, and then suddenly they got a goal and another few scores and our heads dropped a little. We missed a penalty early in the second half and maybe if that went in we might have had a chance but we knew that af-

ter that it was matter of how much we were going to lose by. But they (Wexford) are a really good side. They are well able to hurl and we have to up our standards here. “As a group we are only evolving and we had a couple of glitches in our preparations last week and when that happens it’s not ideal. But we have no excuses. We were well beaten. We go away and lick our wounds and come back stronger. “Today wasn’t a good day but look, Roscommon have a minor team in an AllIreland final, so the future is bright and if we can get a few players from that panel it will supplement us. We haven’t used any minors on our panel this year and we feel that was the right thing to do. “But when we look back at the year we have made progress. We got to the league final, and to an All-Ireland semi-final and our primary aim next year is to get out of Division Four and we need to aim to get to a Premier Junior final too and I aim to keep working hard at it,” he concluded.

Roscommon’s Kelley Hopkins competes for possession during last Sunday’s All-Ireland Camogie Premier Junior Championship semi-final in Clane. Pic: INPHO/Lorraine O’Sullivan

<< Weekend Rewind

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021

The

THE KNOW-ALL

PUNDIT... Unbelievable! You said last week that Kerry would beat Tyrone by eight! Ah yeah, but you have to be careful with those Tyrone lads, you couldn’t be up to them… But you specifically said Kerry would win! Yeah, but my problem is I’m too straight! I was assuming that the Tyrone players would be bunched, you know, after the Covid and all that. Now if you’d asked me for a prediction on the basis that Tyrone would have eh…made a miraculous recovery, now that’s different! Huh? Sounds like you’re backtracking… All I’m saying is I gave you a Covid Context prediction! If you had asked the question properly, it would have been different. If you’d said Tyrone will be as strong as horses, now who do you think will win? Well… Well? Well, then I’d have said that it was set up for an ambush and that Kerry hadn’t been tested yet! And that they are too reliant on David Clifford. And that Tyrone would win, by say…maybe a point…after extra-time of course.

GAA Studio

< PAUL HEALY

Just as Saturday is traditionally ‘Moving Day’ in golf, we can confidently state that this weekend – with round 2 games at senior and intermediate level – is ‘Moving Weekend’ in the Roscommon club championships. There are a few tasty pairings this weekend, plus the prospect of some very competitive fare in just about all of the fixtures. The action begins on Friday. Clann na nGael v Padraig Pearses and Boyle v Michael Glavey’s stand out in the senior championship, not least because all four teams made a winning start in round one. In Group A, Clann v Pearses is a local derby featuring

two of the outstanding clubs in the county, both realistic title contenders. Clann go into Friday night’s big game (8 pm in Johnstown) with a win under their belts (against Strokestown), while Pearses defeated Western Gaels by a three-point margin. This should be a cracking encounter. Meanwhile, Strokestown and Western Gaels will both be desperate for a first win in order to put them into contention. In Group B, Boyle are the team to watch and they will be hoping to continue their opening day momentum when they face Michael Glavey’s. The Ballinlough men came out on top against Elphin on Saturday,

winning by six points, with Darragh Heneghan netting. Elphin and Roscommon Gaels also face off on Saturday, with both teams under pressure to get the win. In Group C, Tulsk will be under no illusions about the real risk of a backlash from St. Brigid’s when the defending champions (shocked by Oran in round one) host them in Kiltoom on Saturday. As for Oran, they will know that forfeiting the element of surprise makes them favourites against St. Croan’s (in Rockfield on Sunday). ‘Moving weekend’ will begin to reveal a picture of just how Championship 2021 might ultimately shape up. * See Seamus Duke’s SFC & IFC previews on page 35.

Yeah right…I suppose you foresaw the Pat Spillane-Sean Cavanagh row too? Well to be honest, I direct messaged Joanne Cantwell on Friday just to tip her off that it could be lively…but for some reason she never got back to me!

Camogie minors into final

*Roscommon’s minor camogie team are into the All-Ireland ‘B’ Shield final after they easily defeated Down by 4-19 to 1-3 last weekend in Stradone. Roscommon led by 0-10 to 1-3 at half-time and went on to totally dominate the second half.

HOW IT’S GOING… Ciaran, Darragh and Cillian Lynch pictured at the recent SFC clash between Boyle and Roscommon Gaels. Pic: Mick McCormack.

Glynn fires warning shot(s) as hurling race warms up Daniel Glynn’s return to typically ruthless scoring form represents a warning shot across the bow which hopefuls in the Kepak Roscommon SHC will have noted! Ace marksman Glynn notched 13 points last weekend as defending champions Padraig Pearses defeated Oran by 0-25 to 2-13. Oran hit two goals in the second half (from Jerry Fallon and Gearoid Keenan) but there

was no stopping point-happy Pearses. Four Roads were also in flying form, hitting an amazing 6-22 against Tremane (6-22 to 2-15). Athleague were comfortable winners against a gallant Roscommon Gaels (in Athleague), Cormac Kelly starring for the winners. Four Roads and Pearses have now advanced to the semifinals.

Weekend hot-shots Young Roscommon Gaels fan Diarmuid Kelly pictured at the recent SFC clash between Boyle and Roscommon Gaels. Pic: Mick McCormack.

Callum Fahey and his Tulsk colleagues have a tough tie coming up against St. Brigid’s this weekend, while St. Croan’s (including Shane Smith, on right) take on in-form Oran. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

SOCIAL shorts...

Ah yeah, I had that one worked out, not boasting or anything. I’ve been watching that Darragh Heneghan fella for a while…

SHC Padraig Pearses 0-25 Oran 2-13 Four Roads 6-22 Tremane 2-15 Athleague 3-20 Roscommon Gaels 1-11

Weekend Fast-forward

No hiding place in club race…it’s ‘Moving weekend’!

Yeah, right. I suppose you knew Glavey’s would beat Elphin?

SFC (Group B) Michael Glavey’s 1-12 Elphin 0-9

H Daniel Glynn of Pearses (0-13 v Oran) H Niall Kilroy of Tremane (2-5 v Four Roads) H Cormac Kelly of Athleague (2-4 v Roscommon Gaels)

Gove & take: If clubbers in an Aberdeen nightclub were shocked to see UK Cabinet Minister Michael Gove dancing amongst them (and showing some intriguing moves), it was nothing compared to the shock which hit the GAA world when Tyrone downed Kerry. You’d normally expect the Tyrone lads to challenge (maybe even beat) Kerry, but not when they’ve been on the point of (allegedly) withdrawing from the AllIreland series, following a much commented upon Covid outbreak. On Twitter, there were plenty of comments. As the game progressed, Joe Brolly tweeted: ‘Highly entertaining game between Tyrone and David Clifford’. Shane Curran advised pundit Sean Cavanagh to ‘take off the rose-tinted glasses’ and ‘do your job’. Oliver Callan (yes, the Oliver Callan) tweeted: ‘Brilliant match. Kerry clinging on by frees. Tyrone by far the better side. That Niall Morgan free was insane. The Red Hands love being underdogs. Can’t wait for more!’ With Tyrone hanging on to win, last word to Seamus Duke, who invoked the catchphrase of that great rural hero from summers past in Glenroe: ‘As Miley would say…Well Holy God!’ If Michael (Miley) Gove met up with the Tyrone supporters, he’d have been dancing all night… Sean & Pat: Twitter went into overdrive when Spillane v Cavanagh (Battle of the Pundits) erupted during RTE’s coverage of Kerry v Tyrone on Saturday. An indignant Cavanagh was determined to defend his county’s honour, but Pat ‘Vacuum of information’ Spillane was having none of it. The angry exchanges were of course prompted by the controversy over the fall-out from the Covid-19 outbreak in the Tyrone camp. In Pundits at War, Spillane rolled back the years and pretty much ‘destroyed’ his younger opponent. Newstalk’s Gavan Reilly wondered if Roscommon-born mediator Kieran Mulvey might have to be called in. This prompted another tweeter to suggest that George Mitchell (one-time US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland) might be needed, to which yours truly replied: “If it goes on much longer they’ll be on to Phil Mitchell”. (Eh...the guy from Eastenders). -PH

Roscommon People Friday 03 September 2021