04 August 2023 Roscommon People

Chargeback

I purchased some items online and I did not receive them. I ordered these items about two months ago and they should have been delivered within two weeks. I tried contacting the online store, but they are ignoring my messages. I paid for the items using my credit card. Is there anything I can do?

I note that you have tried to resolve the issue with the online store but to no avail. I would advise you to contact your bank and ask them to reverse the payment. This is called a chargeback.

Your bank will, I expect, require full details of the payment – the date, payee, and amount. They may also require proof that you have made adequate efforts to resolve the issue yourself with the online retailer. I would suggest that you move quickly with this as your bank may have strict timeframes in addressing chargeback requests.

Your bank will then liaise with the online retailer and reverse the payment made, if appropriate.

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person

Has Micheál Martin REALLY got his own podcast?

Yes, he launched it this week!

Is it boring?

I dunno – probably – but please, be nice!

Will it be the only podcast launched by an Irish politician this year? Please say yes!

NO!

Oh dear!

(They pause to discuss the Republic of Ireland women’s team’s respectable World Cup experience)

So, the Dubs were… Hold it! Can you keep a secret?

No, but go on!

ON A MING AND A PRAYER…

Huh?

I have a friend – I can’t reveal my source – who claims some of our local politicians may be about to launch their own podcasts as well. My friend may be having me on, I dunno, he keeps texting me…

And that’s Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan’s podcast? ON A MING AND A PRAYER? Well, allegedly, I mean, it may only be a rumour…

Any more?

ASK AISLING!

Senator Aisling Dolan?

Obviously!

FRANK DISCUSSION.

Mr Feighan?

Yes!

IF THE CAP FITZ…

I see where this is going…Michael Fitzmaurice?

(Editor: I’m going to Ballaghaderreen’s new festival next week, I will meet Joe Brolly – who is on stage there one night – and I will recruit him to replace these boyos, for once and for all! I’ve had enough!)

Are there any MORE political podcasts?

YES! According to my source! Do you want a leak or two?

Look, can we not just talk about the Dubs, and celebrate them?

Sure! The Dubs were great!

Yeah!

But… we’re on the subject of political podcasts…I have more details to reveal!

Go on…

MATTIE McGRATH…

NO! Please! NO!

YES! He’s calling it A WELCOME MATT

– allegedly.

Oh dear…not BATTY MATTIE?

DANNY HEALY-RAE too.

Of course. Go on…

Apparently he’s simply calling his podcast DAN THE MAN.

I suppose Michael Healy-Rae has one planned too…

Well, funny you say that, he had, but now he’s embroiled in legal action…

Huh?

…with Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice. Well, allegedly. According to my source. SERIOUSLY?

Yeah, some dispute over the title of the podcast, apparently. An argument over copyright. Michael Healy-Rae claims he thought of ‘IF THE CAP FITS’ first!

contact their solicitor

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

It’s been a GOOD week for… ☺

Dublin footballers, this after a powerful finish by Dessie Farrell’s men saw them edge out Kerry in Sunday’s closely contested All-Ireland SFC final, with Michael Fitzsimons, Stephen Cluxton and James McCarthy all making history by winning their ninth career All-Ireland SFC medal, thus surpassing the previous record of eight (held by Kerry greats Pat Spillane, Mikey Sheehy, Ger Power, Páidí O’Sé and Ogie Moran)

Irish fans of Scottish singer-songwriter Paolo Nutini, after it was announced that he will headline Electric Picnic on the Saturday, replacing Lewis Capaldi, who is taking a break from touring; the event takes place in Stradbally, Co. Laois from 1-3 September

Jess Harding and Sammy Root, who won Love Island 2023

It’s been a BAD week for… ☹

Employees of management consultancy services company Accenture, which announced on Monday that it is to lay off 890 of its 6,500 workforce in Ireland

Kerry footballers, who saw their two-in-a-row All-Ireland SFC ambitions dashed

PIC OF THE WEEK: A dejected Michael Hussey of Oran pictured at the final whistle after his team lost their Roscommon SHC encounter against Roscommon Gaels by a single point (2-14 to 1-16). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Man (23) pleads guilty to two Sligo murders

Will be sentenced in October

< DAN DOONER

A 23-year-old man has pleaded guilty to murdering two men and causing serious harm to a third in Co. Sligo last year.

Yousef Palani, of Markievicz Heights in Sligo, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to the murder of County Roscommon native Aidan Moffitt at Cartron Heights, Sligo on April 10th, 2022. He also pleaded guilty to the murder of Michael Snee at City View, Connaughton Road, Sligo two days later, on April 12th, 2022.

Palani further pleaded guilty to causing serious harm to Anthony Burke at Cleveragh Road in Sligo on April 9th, 2022.

The body of Lisacul native Aidan Moffitt (41), a wellknown auctioneer and Fine Gael activist, was discovered at his home in Cartron Heights on April 11th, 2022. Galway native, Michael Snee (58), was found dead just a day later on April 12th

An inquest heard that both men had suffered multiple sharp force injuries to neck and head while Mr Moffitt also suffered sharp force injuries to his chest.

Justice Mary Ellen Ring extended her sympathy to both families of the deceased and directed that victim impact statements be prepared.

The matter had previously been listed for trial on November 13th but has now been adjourned to October 23rd for sentencing.

Minister Naughton unveils details of Roscommon’s Healthy Ireland Fund

Details of Roscommon’s Healthy Ireland Fund (HIF) 2023-25 were announced by Minister of State at the Department of Health, Hildegarde Naughton TD at a formal launch in Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, on Wednesday, August 2nd Roscommon County Council have been approved for budget of €75,000 for 2023, and €40,000 per annum for 2024-2025, with the Healthy Ireland Fund. A new Healthy County Coordinator, Sabrina Lawless, has been appointed in Roscommon. The objectives of Roscommon’s Healthy Ireland programme are to increase the physical activity and mental health of target groups.

In the current round four model, there has been a shift from an activity-led programme to an evidence-based outcomes approach, guided by the Healthy Ireland Outcomes Framework Indicator Set. HIF Round 4 is committed to a targeted strategy, emphasising support for the health and wellbeing of disadvantaged groups and communities, aiming to tackle health inequalities effectively. Moreover, the HIF adopts a partnership approach, ensuring active involvement of target groups and local

stakeholders in the planning and implementation of activities to achieve the desired outcomes.

HIF partnerships with Roscommon Sports Partnership and Roscommon LEADER Partnership demonstrates the collective belief in the power of working together towards our common goal. Upcoming initiatives with our partners include the ‘Fit Farmers’ campaign. This initia-

tive aims to encourage farmers to engage in more physical activity, leading to self-reported improvements in their active lifestyle. Other programmes include the ‘Transition Year on Your Bike’ promotion, which focuses on increasing the number of students aged between 15 and 17 who cycle to school.

Other initiatives include an Age Friendly Activity Programme,

which is aimed at increasing the overall health of our older population. And Children’s Multi Sports Camps will aim to encourage children aged between 5 and 17 years to try new forms of physical activity.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Naughton said the current round of HIF was a collaborative and multi-agency approach which would benefit the

health and wellbeing of people of all ages in the county.

“It is wonderful to see so many people and groups come together with a shared vision to improve health and wellbeing facilities for the community. This vision has been turned into a reality here today thanks to the hard work and commitment of all involved”, the minister remarked.

Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council Shane Tiernan said the local authority would continue to enthusiastically support the latest round of the Healthy Ireland Fund, which he said would not only benefit the health and wellbeing of individuals but communities at large: “Here in Roscommon County Council the health and wellbeing of our staff and the communities we serve is paramount in the way we do our business. Delivering a better quality of life to our citizens is at the heart of all our decision making and the services we provide to the people we serve”.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr John Keogh said the programme would have positive outcomes for society at large: “Healthier lifestyles means people can come together to exercise and engage in healthy activities that improve social inclusion and cohesion.

“Better healthy means less pressure on our health and mental health services. It enables people to fulfil their potential and allows for greater performance in the workplace, in the community and for individuals themselves. This initiative is a win-win for all of society”, concluded the Cathaoirleach.

Yousef Palani

Pictured at the launch of the Roscommon Healthy Ireland Fund initiative on Wednesday were (back row) Cllr Kathleen Shanagher, Cllr John Naughten, Cllr Laurence Fallon, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Liam Callaghan, Senator Eugene Murphy and Sen Aisling Dolan, and (front row) Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council) Cllr John Keogh (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council), Sabrina Lawless (Healthy Ireland, County CoOrdinator, Minister of State at the Department of Health Hildegarde Naughton and Una Ní Chuinn (Healthy Ireland Roscommon committee member and Acting Senior Executive Officer, Community and Enterprise, Roscommon County Council). Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin.

50th wedding anniversary celebration – with both godmothers present!

On the 28th of July 1973, Breege Gunning (of Farm, Williamstown, Co. Galway) married Michael Kilduff (of Glanduff, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon) in Williamstown Church.

The couple, who now reside in Sallins, Co. Kildare, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, and were lucky enough to have both of their godmothers – Mary Casey

(Four Mile House) and Betty Feeley (Carrowphadeen, Lecarrow) –present on the day for the celebrations. Congratulations to Michael and Breege on this very special day!

Murphy: ‘Residents scared to leave home over dangerous N5’

cidents occurring on this stretch of road,” Murphy said.

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has claimed that some residents along the N5 route between Strokestown and Ballaghaderreen are “frightened for their lives” due to the high number of accidents on the road in recent years.

Expressing sympathy to the family of Tuam native Brian Mullins, who recently lost his life on the road, Senator Murphy said: “Many people along the route are frightened for their lives leaving home because of the dangers posed by the road”.

The Scramogue-based politician said the proposed N5 bypass would get the go-ahead shortly and that the Government “fully accepts the project is essential for Roscommon”.

“I have received calls from many people, particularly in recent days, expressing grave concerns about the level of fatal ac-

Ardcarne Garden Café

“The short-term solution is to get flashing warning signs urging motorists to slow down. This is most effective and will ensure greater safety along the route.

“The long-term solution is the bypass to be greenlighted by Government and to be up and running in the autumn of this year”.

The Fianna Fáil Senator believes the new bypass will significantly reduce the volume of traffic on the N5, making it much safer for road users.

“I am very confident fol lowing discussions with Minister Michael McGrath and Minister Jack Chambers and also Minister Paschal Donohoe that the Government will approve shortly a new contract for the N5 bypass,” he said.

“It is vital first of all from a health and safety perspective but I also believe

it will open up the economy of northeast/west Roscommon”.

The contract for the N5 bypass was initially awarded to Roadbridge but the company ran into financial difficulties and the development fell through. The project was expected to cost €200 million but it

is believed that spiralling costs may increase total spend by up to €60 million. Asked how confident he was that the project would commence this year, Senator Murphy said “very”, adding that if that was the case the new N5 bypass could be in place within the next three years.

< DAN DOONER

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Crash victim laid to rest

The man who died in a road traffic collision on the N5 in Roscommon on Wednesday of last week was laid to rest in his native Tuam on Monday.

Brian Mullins, a father of one who was in his 40s, died in the single-vehicle collision which occurred at around 2.40 pm on Wednesday, July 26th on the national route at

Strokestown eviction trial: Three men receive 15-year jail sentences

Three men have been jailed for 15 years after they were convicted of a number of offences arising from an attack on security guards at a repossessed farmhouse in Strokestown in 2018.

Martin O’Toole (59), PJ Sweeney (44) and Paul Beirne (57) were found guilty in June of 15 charges in relation to the incident, which occurred at Falsk, Strokestown on December 16th , 2018. The offences included aggravated burglary, violent disorder, and criminal damage.

Beirne of Croghan, Boyle, Co. Roscommon; O’Toole of Stripe, Irishtown, Claremorris, Co. Mayo; and Sweeney of High

Cairn, Ramelton, Co. Donegal were also found guilty of three counts of arson, causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, false imprisonment, and assault causing harm to Ian Gordon, Mark Rissen, John Gratham and Gary McCourtney during the incident.

They were acquitted of the robbery of a wristwatch from Graham and on one count of arson. A fourth man, David Lawlor (43) of Bailis Downs, Navan, Co. Meath, was found not guilty on the same 17 charges.

Sentencing the three men, Judge Martina Baxter described the incident as a “well executed

plan”, said it was in the “exceptionally serious category” of offending, and that the defendents had a “high degree of moral culpability”.

Judge Baxter imposed a sentence of 15 years each for the false imprisonment of Gordon, 14 years for the false imprisonment of the other three security guards, 13 years for aggravated burglary, 10 years for violent disorder and arson, eight years for criminal damage and five years in relation to animal cruelty.

All sentences are to run concurrently and were backdated to the date the men entered custody.

Cloonfree near Strokestown. The late Mr Mullins is mourned by his fiancée, Reluca; daughter Romina, mother Marion, father Thomas, brother David, sisters Siobhan and Elizabeth, extended family and friends. He was laid to rest at Tuam Cemetery following Mass at the Cathedral of Assumption on Monday afternoon.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who may have video footage of the incident to contact them.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Boyle Garda Station on 071-9664620, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666111 or any Garda station.

Martina Jennings (CEO, Mayo Roscommon Hospice) pictured receiving a cheque for €1,700 from Declan Woods, proceeds from a collection on the Paul Claffey tours. Pictured (front) are Dearbhla Freeman, Mary Shannon, Martina Jennings, Margaret Mannion, and Declan Woods. Back: Margaret Coakley, Nuala Rogers, and Maura Moran (members of Roscommon Hospice support group).

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A column by Roscommon People editor paul@roscommonpeople.ie

THURSDAY

Nothing compared…

Ireland is in mourning. We are wounded…by the sudden shock, by sadness, grief indeed, by the scale of the loss. I am pretty sure we are also troubled by another emotion that has inconveniently burrowed its way into our minds…guilt.

As an artist, Sinéad O’Connor was amazing, one of the greatest voices of her generation. We pocketed her brilliance as a performer and labelled her a complex and troubled person. Our relationship with her became complex and troubled too. But we weren’t keen on nuance. We were hard on Sinéad. We didn’t fully understand Sinéad. Many of us weren’t empathetic enough. Many of us were too judgemental. We scoffed and mocked, when instead we should have listened, and tried to understand. It is only through the darkness of her untimely death that we are belatedly seeing the light. For a period – mercifully not always – society virtually spurned her. She was ‘mad’. Maybe it was just that we didn’t understand her. After the initial flame of fame had dimmed, she was categorised as an attention-seeker, a willing controversialist. There was, after all, a series of name changes, her unlikely ordination as a Latin Tridentine priest, various public spats too. But our dismissal of her was perhaps overly simplistic, certainly unforgiving. Did we ever stop to wonder why she was so angry? How much she was hurting? Why she was hurting?

People always loved her music, and admired and respected her social campaigning. But it is only now that we fully appreciate how much she meant to us. The outpouring of love for Sinéad since her death was announced yesterday reflects how unique and special she was, how great the loss is to Ireland and the world.

Listening to tributes on radio today, I was in awe on being reminded of the extent of her progressive advocacy. Abortion rights. Homelessness. Racism. AIDS. Travellers’ rights. Refugees. The LGBTQ+ community. Against oppression of women. Most

famously of all, she lifted a lid on sex abuse in the Catholic Church, an outraged public (worldwide) responding with scorn. She bravely stood against any injustice that was contaminating society, any agent for inequality or discrimination.

We were hard on her at times. Now people are trying to come to terms with it all, with what Sinéad actually meant to us. There’s tears, pride, regrets, belated pledges of love, the latter so effusive it’s perhaps partly to offset our guilt. Best to show love when someone needs you most.

But we did love Sinéad, and were proud of her on the international stage, of her legacy as a singer-songwriter to whom few compared.

The picture that was always there –often in the shadows – is now clear. She was intelligent. She was generous. She was unique. She was a force of nature. She was ahead of her time. She was the voice of her generation. She was a voice for the voiceless. She was provocative. She was frustrating. She was vulnerable. She was hurting. She was fiercely independent, and she

was fierce. She was funny. She was a champion of the oppressed. Most of all, Sinéad was fearless. And she was right.

FRIDAY

Not Marc’s money

As he ended an interview with SligoLeitrim TD Marc MacSharry this morning, Pat Kenny switched to an update on Newstalk’s popular daily cash competition.

“We have a new total in the Newstalk Cash Machine today, because Mark/c took the money yesterday”…

Pat didn’t clarify, but it wasn’t Deputy MacSharry who struck it lucky the previous day!

FRIDAY

Missing Love Island…

Headline in today’s Irish Independent:

‘I gave Love Island a miss this year and it’s liberating’.

To which one might respond: ‘I gave

Love Island a miss every year since it started (2015) and it’s very liberating’.

SATURDAY

A visit to Forest Park

We spent the evening in the fabulous Lough Key Forest Park, a world class facility on the edge of Boyle. The Forest Park was always a beautiful amenity, but the scale of the development there in recent years has elevated it to a new level as a key attraction in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

There’s now a wide range of activities for people to enjoy, as well as caravan and campervan camping. This evening, our party of ten (well, maybe not every single one of us) took on the Zipit Forest Adventure, a series of high wire challenges.

The young crew with us all enjoyed the experience. The Zipit Adventure course is recommended, as are the many other activities there. Lough Key Forest Park is a gem.

A final observation: the staff we en-

countered were fantastic… professional, courteous, and extremely friendly! Continued success to all there!

SUNDAY On Dubs (and David)

Dublin deserved their win in today’s All-Ireland football final. It was some achievement to twice turn a threepoint deficit around in the second half.

Some of the criticism of David Clifford (mainly on Twitter) is laughable. He scored 0-3, set up Kerry’s goal with a brilliant pass, but just had an off-day (by his standards) with his shooting. I first saw him in the flesh in the 2017 All-Ireland minor final (he scored 4-4) and concluded there and then that he’d go on to become the greatest Gaelic footballer of all time. I still think he will.

As for the Dubs…hats, scarves and rosettes off to them!

MONDAY World Cup musings

Already out of knockout contention, the Republic of Ireland’s Women’s World Cup ended today with an honourable 0-0 draw against Nigeria.

All told, it was a very decent World Cup for us. The achievement was in qualifying (for the first time).

Off the pitch, the FAI and Vera Pauw are either on a collision course, or playing a football version of poker, with mixed signals over the manager’s future. The fact that team captain Katie McCabe publicly remonstrated with Pauw today strongly hints at probable tensions in the Irish camp.

TUESDAY Never do this…

Despite not being a fan of drivers of very long lorries who annoyingly use our narrow road (at Newtown, off the Creevy Road) because they want to avoid town roundabouts, I still ‘gave way’ to one such driver today. To be fair, he acknowledged my courtesy with one hand…while holding the mobile phone which he was chatting into in his other hand.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT SCHEMES

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

The Department of Transport has invited local authorities to apply for funding for the years 2024 and 2025. Roscommon County Council invites Expressions of Interest from householders and land owners on local and regional roads who wish to participate in the Community Involvement Scheme.

The Scheme, which is funded by the Department of Transport, will be based on a minimum community contribution of either 10% or 20% for eligible works, including general maintenance, drainage works, pavement works and footpaths, based on the criteria below:

• Where the local community contribution is monetary a minimum contribution rate of 10% will apply;

• Where the local community contribution comprises works the minimum contribution rate will be 20%;

Application forms are available at www.roscommoncoco.ie or by email to roads@roscommoncoco.ie

The closing date for receipt of applications is close of business on Thursday 31st August 2023.

Greg O’Donnell, A/Director of Services

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

Roscommon County Council intends to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified.

Road to be closed: L-14261 at Mountdillon to its Junction with the L-6076 in Curraghroe, Roscommon

Period of Closure: 1st September to 6th October 2023 (5 weeks)

Alternative Routes: Diversion via R371 – L1426 – L6076

Reason for Closures: To facilitate Mountdillon Bridge Rehabilitation works

Objections in respect of the proposed closure may be made in writing to the Roads and Transportation Department or e-mailed to roads@roscommoncoco.ie to arrive not later than 7th August 2023.

Greg O’Donnell, A/Director of Services

DÚNADH SEALADACH BÓITHRE ACHT NA MBÓITHRE 1993, ALT 75 RIALACHÁIN UM BÓITHRE 1994, AIRTEAGAL 12

Tá sé i gceist ag Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin an bóthar atá leagtha amach sa sceideal thíos a dhúnadh ar feadh na dtréimhsí agus an chúis atá sonraithe.

An bóthar le dúnadh: L-14261 ag Cluain Creamha go dtí a Acomhal leis an L-6076 ins An Currach Rua, Ros Comáin

Tréimhse Dúnta: 1ú Meán Fómhair go dtí an 6ú Deireadh Fómhair 2023 (5 seachtaine)

Bealaí Malartacha: Malairt slí trí R371 – L1426 – L6076

Cúiseanna le Dúnadh: Chun oibreacha Athshlánaithe Dhroichead Cluain Creamha a éascú Féadfar agóid maidir le dúnadh molta na mbóithre a dhéanamh i scríbhinn chuig Roinn na mBóithre agus Iompair nó trí ríomhphost a sheoladh chuig roads@roscommoncoco.ie ach í a fháil ní déanaí ná an 7ú Lúnasa 2023.

Greg O’Donnell, A/Stiúrthóir Seirbhísí

2023 SOCIAL HOUSING ASSESSMENT (Update of Details)

Roscommon County Council is carrying out a Social Housing Assessment in accordance with Section 21 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2009 as amended.

1. If your Social Housing Application is selected for assessment you will receive a 2023 Social Housing Assessment (Update of Details) Form in the post. This form must be completed and returned with all required supporting documentation on or before Friday the 18th August 2023.

All completed applications should be returned to the address below. If this form is not returned by the required date, your application for Social Housing will be CLOSED and you will not be considered for future offers of Social Housing Support.

If you have moved and the address you previously provided on your Social Housing Application is no longer correct, please contact Roscommon County Council to request the 2023 Social Housing Assessment (Update of Details) Form or download the form at https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/services/housing/social-housing/

This form must be completed in full and returned with all required supporting documentation on or before Friday the 18th August 2023. All completed applications should be returned to the address below.

2. If you are not already on the social housing list but wish to be considered for housing support services, please contact Roscommon County Council at the address below or call 090 663 7230 or email housing@roscommoncoco.ie for a Social Housing Application Form.

Roscommon County Council, Housing Business Unit, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. F42 VR98

Signed: Ann McHugh, Senior Executive Officer Date: 25th July 2023

DÚNADH SEALADACH BÓITHRE ACHT NA MBÓITHRE 1993, ALT 75 RIALACHÁIN UM BÓITHRE 1994, AIRTEAGAL 12

Tá cinneadh déanta ag Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin na bóithre atá leagtha amach sa sceideal thíos a dhúnadh don tréimhse agus don chúis atá sonraithe.

An bóthar le dúnadh: R377/L1618/L1612 Linn Snámha an Chaisleáin Riabhaigh go Crosaire Lios Laighean, An Caisleán Riabhach

Tréimhse Dúnta: 8.30r.n. go 2i.n. Dé Domhnaigh 6 Lúnasa 2023

Bealaí Malartacha: Trí N60/R367

Cúis Dúnta: Chun Trí-atlan Ospís John Tully 2023 a éascú

Greg O’Donnell, A/Stiúrthóir Seirbhísí

Racing continues at Roscommon on Tuesday

We are more than halfway through our season here at Roscommon Racecourse, and we are back racing on Tuesday, August 8th, for all national hunt cards, the first race kicking off at 5.30 pm.

We’ve been delighted with our season to date, and there have been already many highlights so far. Arguably the main one was Ryan Moore’s first visit here when he won the Lenabane Stakes for Aidan O’Brien.

He walked the track beforehand and was very generous with his time, being willing to pose for lots of photographs with racing fans. It really was a pleasure to have arguably the best rider in the world at our track here.

Getting back to our next fixture, now that we’ve some consistent rain, we haven’t had to water our track, which is always a huge drain on manpower. The fact that nature has helped our track over the last month has been a massive help.

We’re expecting some top class action here on the

8th of August, and may well see an above average juvenile hurdler in The Railway Bar 3 YO Hurdle. Our other sponsors include Paul Byron Shoes, JF Hanley Groundscare, Brian Keenan Bookmaker, Michael Hennigan, and Helen Mee O’Farrelly.

Our best turned out prizes are sponsored by P&G Cards, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

As usual there will be music in the bar after the second last race. Admission tickets and Ros Special tickets can be purchased online at roscommonracecourse.ie. There is a 10% discount on admission tickets online, but cash and card payments are also accepted at the gate.

A list of remaining fixtures and all other information, which includes ticket information, can be found on our website roscommonracecourse.ie. For enquiries, email contact@roscommonracecourse.ie or phone 087 2203288.

Roscommon racecourse: come for the racing, stay for the craic!

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

‘Scrambling’ on return to the golf course, with a curate’s egg-type performance!

Our man Frank makes a return to the golf course, but discovers that large crowds in the vicinity were there for other reasons; He reflects on an outing to Malahide Castle, prior to the Dublin footballers downing the Kingdom… and he has a playful go at national treasure, George Hamilton!

It is Monday of last week, and myself and my brother Duff (Sean) decided to take out our golf clubs after the guts of a year of inactivity on that front, heading for the

lovely parkland course that is out the road in Dunmore.

It took me a while to clear the cobwebs off my gear bag, but eventually we started to play the beautiful nine holes. We enjoyed what could only be described as a curate’s egg-type of round – good in some spots, but bad in a lot of others.

After a while we finished up and tried to head back to Creggs, but the trouble was we simply couldn’t get out onto the Main Street of Dunmore! At first, we thought a huge crowd had turned up to watch us play (a bit like Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods), but we gave up on that theory as no one bothered to approach us.

The upshot of it all was we had to leave Dunmore by a different route, and go home through Clonberne and Glenamaddy. It was when we drove through Glen and encoun-

Gerry was a rugby legend and a true gentleman

It seems a long time ago now, and I suppose it is, but back in the late 1970s and well into the ‘80s, we here in Creggs Rugby Club developed a healthy rivalry with Ballina.

For a number of years, it’s safe to say we were the two dominant forces in Connacht Junior Rugby. As a result, we contested several cup and league finals (they won more than we did) and of course became very familiar and indeed friendly (off the field) with several members of the Ballina team. I also happened to work in the Mayo town for some of those years, and have very fond memories of my time there.

One of the best known and most loved of the Ballina lads was Gerry O’Donnell, right, a fierce competitor on the field but a true gentleman off it, and if ever a man involved and immersed himself in a club, Gerry did.

After his playing days were over (as a club player, because he continued to play ‘Masters’ rugby until not too many years ago), he would turn up at nearly every rugby game involving Ballina, from underage boys and girls to senior teams. We last saw him in Creggs only a couple of months ago at an U-14 boys game.

He made the time to become President of the Connacht Branch, and during his tenure, Connacht famously won the Pro12 title by beating a star-studded Leinster team in Murrayfield in 2016. He also ran a very successful meat-distributing company and his GOD vans were a common sight all over Mayo and surrounding counties.

Last week, Gerry sadly passed away after a sudden illness, and so on Friday evening my brothers Billy and Duff and I travelled to Ballina to say goodbye to a man who was a true legend of Irish rugby. We were fortunate to meet up with a big number of Gerry’s Ballina teammates, along with fellows we played against from lots of other clubs, and the massive turnout was indicative of the standing he had in so many different areas of life – both business and sporting.

To his wife Olive, his family and many friends, we extend our sincere sympathy. In the words of Alan Rowe, president of Ballina RFC, “Gerry O’Donnell was a man like no other, and his likes will not pass this way again”.

May you rest in peace, Gerry.

tered another major traffic jam, that the penny finally dropped.

In both of those north Galway towns, for a period of a couple of hours in the afternoon, petrol and diesel prices were greatly slashed, and therefore it appears that the massive queues were not there to see Duff and I playing golf, but rather to avail of the huge reductions.

Diesel was selling at €1.28 a litre (the normal price is about €1.58), and there was a similar markdown on petrol. By the time we realised what was going on, the offers had almost expired, so we didn’t get to avail of the great deals. However, judging by the crowds in both places, we must have been the only ones.

Greatly encouraged by my return to a golf course, myself, Duff, my son Paul, and James Gavin, met up on Saturday morning and took part in the very successful Creggs RFC Clas-

In praise of Malahide Castle (and a word on the Dubs)

On Saturday morning Carol and myself hit off to Dublin to visit our daughter Lisa and granddaughter Riley. After a nice, relaxing, quiet night, we found ourselves heading over to the beautiful grounds of Malahide Castle early on Sunday morning (about 9 am). When we were leaving at 11 or so, there wasn’t room to park a bicycle.

Our first stop was the Avoca restaurant and shop for the cup of coffee and scone, and then we took the short walk to an amazing children’s park, where there was every type of activity available for the huge crowd of excited children present. There were slides, swings, seesaws, wallclimbing activities, a big sand arena, trampolines, and numerous other things for the children to enjoy. If the rain hadn’t come, I don’t know would we ever have got Riley home!

By the time we left, the place was abso-

lutely jammed, and there were huge numbers of families with young children making the most of the wonderful grounds. My overriding feeling was that the grounds of Malahide Castle, which also incorporate a fabulous walled garden, are an amazing facility for the people of North County Dublin.

Later in the early afternoon, we headed back west and were home in time to watch the Dubs win back the Sam Maguire, a result that didn’t really surprise me. Like them or hate them, there is no argument that the Dubs have been the dominant team in Ireland for so long that their place in history is undoubted, and the fact that three members of Sunday’s team are now the most decorated Gaelic footballers of all time, with nine All-Irelands each, is proof of their amazing quality and consistency for so many years.

sic – and to be fair, we didn’t do too badly! James is always very consistent and Paul played very well considering he hadn’t hit a ball for two years, while Duff and myself brought the curate’s egg with us from Dunmore. However, I want Roscommon Golf Club to remove the 12th hole. The hole is only a short par three, but there is a body of water between the tee and green and every tee shot I have ever hit there has plopped into the pond. I sent two more in on Saturday, and so I now would like to see the diggers come in and fill it all up. Next year I will simply go from the 11th to the 13th, and give the ball-swallowing 12th a miss.

I don’t know who won the whole event, but once again, despite our great efforts, Jack the Higher didn’t ring us to come back for the prize-giving – maybe he just couldn’t get us on the phone!

Have you thoughts on this masterplan?

I am told that there is a study being done around Donamon Wood, Stoneham’s Lake, and Ballinapark, to assess the potential for outdoor recreation and accompanying visitor facilities across the site, to improve access to high quality green and blue spaces. Everyone is asked to provide feedback on their vision for the site and help to shape the future of recreation within that space.

To do so, you can go online at outdoorrecreationni.com/projects/donamon-recreationmasterplan, and give your thoughts on the matter.

And finally…

As the rain once again hammered down this Monday morning, I happened to see our Irish Women’s soccer team take on Nigeria in the World Cup, and after a 0-0 draw I can only say I thought they performed very well and should be proud of their efforts.

However, it’s time commentator George Hamilton was put out to grass – twice in the space of a couple of minutes he told us we were playing Canada, and later, when Diane Caldwell came on as a sub, he told us she was 84 years of age. She is actually 34, which I guess is seen as getting on a bit for a professional footballer, but 84 is pushing it – and should surely get her into the Guinness Book of Records!

’Til next week, bye for now

Malahide Castle

Waldron wants GAA/HSE partnership to solve hospital parking problem

< DAN DOONER

Independent councillor Anthony Waldron has this week called on the HSE and Roscommon GAA to work together in order to solve the current parking issues at Roscommon

University Hospital.

Cllr Waldron believes the development of parking facilities on hospital grounds close to the Golf Links Road would benefit patients, visitors and also match-goers at Dr Hyde Park.

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week he said: “A number of people have approached me in the last couple of months in regards to parking at the hospital. Recently I met a person in a wheelchair who was forced to park

near Dr Hyde Park on a very bad day. That’s not acceptable and whilst all the great work that’s going on at the hospital is very welcome, parking is an issue that needs to be addressed”.

“There are options and there are lands that are available that could be developed. I’ve sent a number of emails to the HSE in that regard and I’m now waiting for a response. I’d like to see Roscommon University Hospital, Roscommon GAA and Roscommon County Council coming together to sort out this problem”.

Cllr Waldron believes the availability of further car parking spaces would also ensure the continued development of the hospital.

“I think this could work very well with the GAA because major games are on Saturdays and Sundays and hospital parking is used for these. During the week, people visiting the hospital use the Hyde for parking so I’m sure they could come to an agreement on both sides,” he said.

“With its central location and the continued development of services at Roscommon University Hospital, I believe it could take a lot of the pressure off A&E units in other hospitals around the country. We want to prepare for these developments, and so parking and other facilities need to be there too”.

Rahara Cemetery Mass on Sunday

Mass will be celebrated in Rahara Cemetery this Sunday (August 6th) at 10 am. A collection will be held to assist with the ongoing maintenance and enhancement works in the graveyard.

Cemetery Mass in Athleague

Athleague Cemetery Mass will be celebrated at 8 pm this Friday, August 4th. A collection will be held for the ongoing upkeep of the cemetery. If weather conditions are poor, the Mass will take place inside the church. All support gratefully appreciated.

Pilgrimage to Lough Derg later this month

There will be a one-day pilgrimage to Lough Derg on Saturday, August 19th, leaving Ballyleague Hall at 7 am.

The bus will pick up passengers at Scramogue, Rooskey, and Carrick-onShannon. To book, call Mary on 043-3321969.

be obtained from Roscommon Golf Club or Robert McConn by phone on 086 8277466 or by email at robnoi@me.com.

Cllr Anthony Waldron pictured outside Roscommon University Hospital earlier this week.

Hospital celebrates nursing mentors

Roscommon University Hospital (RUH) celebrated International Day of the Nurse on Friday, May 12th, recognising the contribution of nursing mentors in supporting new colleagues.

18 overseas nurses and midwives took up roles in RUH since the beginning of last year, where they were supported with an adaptation and preceptorship programme. The Saolta Preceptor Recognition Awards is an initiative to

Rugby success highlighted

Sporting successes for Creggs Rugby Club and the Convent of Mercy’s senior rugby team were highlighted at a ceremony in Bank of Ireland Roscommon recently.

Members of Creggs Rugby Club including President Adrian Leddy, Head of Youth Rugby Dave Purcell, and Jack Hegarty were present with the Connacht Junior League trophy (won earlier this year) and the Connacht J1C Cup.

Convent of Mercy, Ro-

scommon players who recently won their first Connacht Senior League title, were also honoured at the ceremony, receiving a signed Connacht Rugby ball and monetary contribution from Bank of Ireland staff.

Creggs President Adrian Leddy acknowledged the work that had gone into the Convent’s achievement and hailed a “very successful year” for Creggs Rugby and for the game in Ireland as a whole.

He paid special tribute to Bank of Ireland for their support of rugby from the grassroots up and said the bank’s backing was deeply appreciated by everyone in Creggs.

Mayo Roscommon BOI Manager, Michael Costello hailed the Convent’s “great achievement”, adding that Bank of Ireland was delighted to sponsor rugby in the region and would work hard to continue its support in Roscommon and further afield.

publicly acknowledge and thank the nurses who made such a huge impact on new recruits.

In RUH, nurse Gráinne Keaveney was recently honoured with a preceptorship award at the hospital.

Gráinne is a staff nurse in St Teresa’s Ward and was nominated by her preceptee, Jessica Okoro.

Jessica said, “I nominated Gráinne because she made me so comfortable and supported me in every-

thing I did. Since the first day of my adaptation, she was very kind, she gave me positive and constructive feedback with loads of support on what I needed to learn. I am very grateful to her”.

Paul Hooton (Chief Director of Nursing and Midwifery) and Ursula Morgan (Director of Nursing at RUH) both congratulated Gráinne, who was described as “an outstanding role model”.

Pictured at the recent award ceremony were Ursula Morgan (Director of Nursing, Roscommon University Hospital) and staff nurses Ogonna Ejikeme, Jessica Okoro, Grainne Keaveney, Wendy Sithole and Silaligo Musa.

Members of Creggs RFC along with staff from the Bank of Ireland pictured with members of the Convent of Mercy Senior Girls League winning rugby team on the square in Roscommon Town. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Bank of Ireland Roscommon Branch Manager, Anne Marie Beirne (with members of Creggs RFC and other Bank of Ireland staff) pictured presenting a signed Connacht rugby ball to members of the Convent of Mercy Senior Girls League winning rugby team. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Roscommon Rapid Response organises bus for cataract patients

Cataract patients on the public waiting list can now avail of the Cross Border Healthcare Directive, which allows patients to undergo cataract procedures in Northern Ireland and receive a recoupment from the HSE.

Roscommon Rapid Response are organising a bus to Belfast on Saturday, September 9th, when patients will have a consultation. The procedure

will then be performed on Sunday, September 10th, with a return journey that evening.

At present there are approximately 100 patients in County Roscommon on the public waiting list for cataract procedures who are eligible for this scheme. Patients must pay the hospital, overnight accommodation, etc., plus fees up front, and will receive a recoupment from the HSE for

We’re Hiring

the consultation and procedure expenses, but not for accommodation, food, or travel expenses.

If you or a family member would like further information or have any questions about the Cross Border Healthcare Directive, or this service, please contact Roscommon Rapid Response by email at roscommonrr@gmail.com or phone 087 3197610.

Senior Youth Officer Roscommon

The service aims to give young people an opportunity to overcome adversity and reach their full potential in a safe supportive environment. A team employed and managed by Foróige to develop and implement the programme of Roscommon Youth Service 1UBU and Roscommon Roma UBU supporting Roscommon town, Castlerea, Boyle and Ballaghaderreen.

This post is funded by Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth UBU Your Place Your Space Scheme through the Galway and Roscommon ETB.

Learn more and apply at www.foroige.ie/careers

Deadline: 12th August 2023

Foróige is committed to a policy of Equality of Opportunity in its employment practices.

Roscommon Agricultural Show

The 2023 Roscommon Agricultural Show will be held at Hannon’s Hotel grounds on Saturday, August 19th. There will be free admission and entertainment for kids on the day. To view the schedule and entry forms, go to our website, roscommonagriculturalshow.ie.

Cemetery Mass in Kileenan and Ardcarne

Mass will be celebrated in Kileenan Graveyard, Knockvicar on Saturday, August 19th at 3 pm. Mass will also be celebrated in Ardcarne Graveyard on Sunday, August 20th at 12 noon. A collection will be taken up at Ardcarne Graveyard for the cost of lighting the church and graveyard for the coming year. All support would be gratefully appreciated.

‘Barbenheimer’ a welcome boost for cinemas as public embrace ‘double feature’

Let’s talk about ...

Barbenheimer

Alannah Ita Healy

I love a good cinema trip. The novelty alone wins me over; choosing the perfect seats, smelling the buttered popcorn, sneaking in a share bag of crispy M&Ms under my jacket (don’t tell anyone). I like the way you’re locked into focusing on the movie, hearing the little reactions from the rest of the audience, and the obligatory ‘so-what-didja-think’ postmovie chat with whoever you’ve gone with. Going to the cinema makes an event and an intentional fuss out of movie-watching, something that feels like an increasing rarity now that streaming has become the norm. And as much as streaming offers a convenience and accessibility that cinemas can’t hope to compete with, streaming simply can’t make an event out of movie-watching the way cinemagoing does – and we need look no further than the weekend before last for an example.

Friday, July 21st saw the theatrical release of two of 2023’s most highly anticipated movies – Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ and Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’. Nolan’s is the deeply serious and occasionally black-and-white biopic about the father of the atomic bomb, while Gerwig’s is the pink-filled, self-satirical dramedy following the iconic Barbie doll character. We could choose to talk about the massive individual success of either of these movies and make a valid point about cinematic releases’ enduring ability to create event films; not only were both movies eagerly anticipated by audiences, they both received widespread acclaim and exceeded their box office expectations. But the real cinema event of that weekend was not either movie, but rather a broader phenomenon that bundled both films together – the aptly titled ‘Barbenheimer’.

The fact that such polar-opposite films were being released in tandem became a point of amusement online pretty much as soon as the news was announced. For a short while, commenters argued over which one people should go to, until eventually the running joke became that instead of having to choose, everyone should just go see both on the same day.

The idea was you either started your day off with the lighter, brighter ‘Barbie’ to warm yourself up for three hours of more serious cinema in the evening, or you got through ‘Op-

penheimer’ early so you could relax and watch ‘Barbie’ as ‘dessert’.

The entire phenomenon served as brilliant promotion for both films and ended up drawing huge audiences back to the cinema for the double feature, with the weekend of their release reportedly being the biggest box office weekend in the Ireland and UK since before Covid.

As mentioned, I love a good cinema trip. I have gone to movies I had barely any interest in at all for the sake of going to the cinema, and before ‘Barbenheimer’, I was already planning to go see both films, so you can imagine how easily convinced I was to do the double feature.

(Mild spoilers ahead for Barbie and Oppenheimer

(…can you spoil a biopic?))

I started off with Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’, and I think we must’ve had the right idea to catch an early viewing because from what I heard, a lot of people who watched it later in the day thought the three-hour run-time really dragged on by the end. So maybe it was the morning coffee beforehand, but thankfully I felt invested enough throughout that I wasn’t at any point praying for the credits to roll like others told me they were. It did indeed feel three hours long, but I thought the pacing was done well, and as much as Nolan gets made fun of for complicating films and mixing about timelines, I thought the back and forth between different points in the story really helped make the long run-time work.

Like most viewers, I came away thinking it was a very well made film. The cinematography was great, the effects used to age and de-age the actors for different scenes were done well, and I appreci-

Tulsk History Society news

Preparations are well underway for Tulsk History Society’s Percy French exhibit at the Tulsk Macra Hall on Sunday, August 13th, for Heritage Week 2023.

The society have teamed up with Philip Sheppard of Sheppard’s Auction House (of Durrow, Co. Laois) to present the first ever exhibit of Percy French paintings in Tulsk, French’s native village. The centrepiece of the exhibition will be the unveiling of a beautiful antique cabinet that French once owned, on which are panels painted with landscape images that French himself applied.

Philip Sheppard will give a talk on the day about Percy, after Councillor Liam Callaghan unveils the cabinet at 1 pm. Entry is free and doors will open at 12.15 pm.

The history society are gathering a nice collection of Percy French books and

memorabilia to exhibit on a stand on the day, and would be very grateful for any contributions (to be returned after the exhibition). At the moment, we are particularly looking for an Ireland’s Own from 2020 with Percy on the front cover.

To temporarily donate this, or anything else, please email historytulsk@gmail. com, or call Jody on 086 3384850.

Elsewhere, the society’s new website (tulskhs.com) is getting lots of traffic and is proving to be a good starting point for keeping up to date with the latest THS news, activities and publications. The Kilcooley Cemetery recording project continues, and – weather-permitting – will be wrapped up in the coming weeks. If you would like to join the society or wish to get in touch, the society’s email is historytulsk@gmail.com.

ated the decision to use practical effects instead of CGI to depict the Trinity explosion. I also thought opting for near silence both during that explosion scene and during the scene in which Oppenheimer delivers a speech after the bomb drops served to create much more captivating and impactful moments than the big din of noise you might expect such scenes to have. And the cast does a great job across the board, with Ireland’s own Cillian Murphy unsurprisingly delivering a brilliant performance in his role as the titular physicist.

The movie of course has a deeply poignant message to deliver about nuclear warfare, and its final moments – and indeed final line – makes sure that that message is what you leave the theatre thinking about. I appreciate the message the movie aims to deliver, and the warning it gives, but for a movie that had to be so careful about not glorifying the atomic bomb’s creation because of the mass destruction and loss of human life it led to, it is strange that the film spends so long lauding the genius of certain characters while being largely uninterested in addressing the loss of life at all – it depicts no Japanese victims in that lengthy runtime.

After watching Oppenheimer, I understood less why people chose to end their Barbenheimer double bill with it, because as much as I enjoyed it as a movie overall, I felt in desperate need of a Barbie palate cleanser by the end.

Like Oppenheimer, I am in the majority of viewers who greatly enjoyed the Barbie movie. I say majority, because despite it having a handful of vocal critics, based off the people I’ve talked to and the reviews the film got on sites like Rotten Tomatoes, etc., the reaction to the film has been overwhelmingly positive. It was also the more successful of the two, earning US$356m on its

opening weekend, making it the biggest debut ever for a film directed by a woman.

The vocal critics in question dislike the film as they regard it as being sexist. If you’ve heard none of the movie’s promo, you might think this is because for years, the Barbie doll was criticised as anti-feminist for setting unattainable beauty standards. But in recent years, Barbie has sort of shed this reputation and 180-ed right around to now being seen as a sort-of feminist icon, and not just because Mattel (the company that owns Barbie) eventually put out more diverse dolls, but because she has been recognised for championing the motto that little girls can ‘be anything’. Barbie was one of the first dolls to come out for little girls that was not a baby doll for them to play mother with, but an independent woman they could imagine themselves growing up to be – she had her own job, her own car, her own house, etc.

So, if Barbie can be argued to be as much an inspirational feminist figure as she is an unattainable beauty ideal, why is her movie being deemed sexist?

Before the movie came out, the tagline on the promotional poster alongside Margot Robbie’s Barbie and Ryan Gosling’s Ken, which reads ‘She’s everything. He’s just Ken’, incited backlash from those who then assumed the film would be some exercise in indulgent misandrist man-bashing. But anyone who’s seen the film knows that this line is more about the nuanced point the movie ends up making about women being expected to ‘be everything’ and ‘have it all’, while men are freer to be ‘just’ themselves, a point best encapsulated in the movie by a monologue delivered by America Ferrera’s character. It’s also a tongue-in-cheek nod to the fact that because Barbie was a doll marketed exclusively to girls who obviously related more to her than Ken, over the years she became everything (had a million jobs, looks, and personality traits), and Ken never really developed beyond just being Ken, Barbie’s supportive boyfriend.

The movie does tackle a lot of issues like beauty and gender roles/dynamics, and it does this in a very self-satirical but uncompromising way. It does end up feeling a bit Feminism 101 in some places, but this mostly works given the context of the main characters being people from Barbieland who land in the real world and suddenly encounter patriarchy for the first time. But while so many of its major themes relate to bigger societal issues, at its core the film is a comedy, and the film manages to balance emotional impactfulness, poignancy, levity, and humour over its run. Both movies are worth a watch, whether you choose to do a double bill or not – if you get the chance, make a day of it and see them in the cinema while they’re still showing.

Papal honour for Roscommon man Joe Tiernan

Chevalier Joe Tiernan (GCHS of Kilmore, County Roscommon) was recently promoted to Knight Grand Cross of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem at a ceremony held in Maynooth on July 22nd

The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre is a most prestigious Order, of which the Pope is Sovereign. The special mission given by the Pope to this Order is to help to sustain the Catholic Church and the Christian presence in the Holy Land. The Grand Cross is the highest of the four ranks of Knighthood within the Order. Joe was originally invested as a Knight in 2009. This is his third promotion in the Order during his fourteen years of membership.

Chevalier Joe Tiernan is well-known nationally and internationally as an entrepreneur, property developer, and master builder, and he now holds the highest Papal decoration held by a person in Roscommon.

(A student’s

Chevalier Joe Tiernan (GCHS of Kilmore, County Roscommon), who was recently promoted to Knight Grand Cross of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, pictured here with His Eminence Cardinal Sean Brady (GCHS), who holds the same prestigious rank.

Changes you can make…

Walking or cycling to the shops will reduce carbon emissions from car exhausts as well as keeping one fit and improving local air quality. If one have to drive, then share with other people going the same way by running a car pool and don’t be shy about asking for a lift if you know someone is going your way. Slowing down a little and avoiding excessive accelerating not only reduces co₂ emissions, it also reduces wear and tear on one’s vehicle, avoiding the need for unnecessary trips to the garage for repairs.

Recycling as much of one’s waste as possible will reduce emissions created from producing new items – recycling just one drink can save the same co₂ that an average car emits driving one mile. Better still, composting one’s organic waste and using it to fertilise vegetables and other plants in the garden is an important consideration for householders.

For more impactful or bigger change, local residents could consider switching to an electric car which costs less to run and has considerably less servicing costs than diesel/ petrol cars and vans. The cost of solar panels and other renewable systems has also reduced considerably in recent years and you may be eligible for one of the grants offered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland.

Invitation to discuss Climate Action Plan with Council staff today

Local householders urged to get active and take climate action!

The public is urged to play their part in tackling climate change. As part of this process, Roscommon County Council, in preparation of its Climate Action Plan, is currently engaging in extensive public consultations by inviting the public to have their say. Following consultations in Roscommon town and Monksland, staff from Roscommon County Council’s dedicated Climate Unit will be available to discuss the Climate Action Plan with members of the public on Thursday, August 3rd, from 4 pm to 7 pm in Boyle Library – the public are free to call in and have their say.

Although the challenges are daunting and one is surrounded on all sides with news of the terrible consequences of continuing as they are, citizens don’t need to be frozen like a rabbit in the head-

lights, in a manner of speaking. Changes can also be made in our lives that may seem like a drop in the ocean compared to the problem, but many drops combined will result in the positive impacts needed

to turn the situation around.

Climate Action Officer for Roscommon County Council, Barry Tapster, commented, “We don’t have to feel completely helpless in the face of the climate crisis. By think-

ing globally and acting locally we can see how many of the small changes we make have other positive benefits for us and, added together, can have a real impact on reducing our co2 emissions”.

The public consultation runs to Friday, August 4th, through the online survey, via a submission to climate@roscommoncoco.ie, or in writing to Climate Unit, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon town, F42 VR98.

Michael

Ronan McDermott tractor, truck and car run raises almost €15k for Pieta House

There was a fantastic turnout for the tractor, truck and car run held on Sunday, April 30th, in memory of Ronan McDermott. The fundraising event was a huge success, raising almost €15k for Pieta House. Thank you to everyone for taking part. The support was amazing, from those with tractors, cars, trucks, and motorbikes, to volunteers, spectators, and to those who donated raffle prizes and refreshments. Thank you all.

Thanks also to St Faithleach’s Clubhouse for

hosting, and to Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club, who led the event.

Thank you also to the Gardaí for controlling the traffic on the day and Roscommon Civil Defence who were on site during the event.

An impressive total of €14,865 was raised for Pieta House, exceeding the expected targets.

Sharon, Sean, Michael, Catherine, Emma and Caitlin would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who participated in any way.

Pictured with the proceeds of the recent tractor run were

McDermott, Sharon Daly and Catherine McDermott. The €14,865 is being presented to Pieta House.

Pictured at the recent launch of public consultations for Roscommon County Council’s Climate Action Plan in the County Library buildings, Roscommon town, were Conor Fallon (Acting Senior Executive Officer, Environment and Climate Change), Barry Tapster (Climate Change Officer), Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr John Keogh, Breata Coyle (Community Climate Action Officer) and Declan Dolan (Senior Executive Officer, Corporate Services). Pic: Ger O’Loughlin

Inaugural BallaghDream Arts Festival promises nine days of excitement and entertainment! Great line-up from 5-13 August

From Saturday, 5th to Sunday, 13th of August this year, the inaugural BallaghDream Arts Festival will take place in Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

The festival is the first of its kind in Ballaghaderreen and has been planned and organised over the last 12 months by a small team of local business people, creatives and supporters of the arts working voluntarily to bring some extra colour, sound, and excitement to the town.

The nine-day festival includes both free and ticketed events happening in various venues in and around the town including St. Nathy’s College, St. Nathy’s Cathedral, Edmondstown House, Willowbrook Glamping & Hideaways, and the Ballaghaderreen Family Resource Centre.

The goal of the festival team from the outset was not only to bring to Ballaghaderreen some of the most talented artists in their various disciplines from all of Ireland and abroad, but also to provide a platform for local talent to shine. Many local groups and individuals will be in-

volved in the Ballaghaderreen Players’ production of John B Keane’s Big Maggie, and in the busking day on Bank Holiday Monday, 7th of August.

There will also be lots of local artists exhibiting in the Art and Poetry trail which brings shop windows and the windows of derelict buildings around the town to life with artworks and poetry.

As Tuesday Whitfield, a member of the festival team put it “I know so many amazing artists, poets and musicians from the local area who never get the platform they deserve, so I really wanted to be able to shine a light on these people and their work during the festival”.

Add to the local talent the big names at the top of the festival bill and it adds up to an incredibly exciting line-up, the like of which is rarely if ever seen in any small town in the west of Ireland.

Irish Trad band Lúnasa, Matt Molloy & John Carty and world champion Irish dancer Ronan Kelly, all perform on Wednesday (9th). Classical pianist John O’Conor is joined by cellist

Ailbhe McDonagh on Thursday (10th). Two of Ireland’s top electronic artists, Daithí and Mayo native Elaine Mai are joined by local live looping artist Death Milkshake on Friday (11th).

Also that evening there is a GAA panel discussion which features Mayo legends Cora Staunton and Andy Moran alongside Joe Brolly, Seanie McDermott and John O’Mahony.

During the second weekend of the festival (11th-13th) at Edmondstown House there are four performances of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream by UK-based Theatre Company The Pilgrim Players.

Throughout the week there will be other theatre performances, art, creative writing and Music software workshops, a programme of children’s workshops and a battle of the bands competition, before the festival is brought to a close on Sunday, 13th of August with a comedy night that features UK comic Joe Thomas, best known for his role as Simon in the UK sitcom The Inbetweeners.

Ballaghaderreen is in for an incredible week!

Iam Burke

John O’Conor

Joe Thomas Death Milkshake

‘Excitement is building’

Organisers of the inaugural BallaghDream Arts Festival have confirmed that ticket sales are going well ahead of the inaugural nineday event in Ballaghaderreen. Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, BallaghDream team member, Wes Pollington, said excitement was building in the west Roscommon town.

“It is getting very exciting ahead of opening day (Saturday, August 5th). We were planning for BallaghDream Festival for about a year. It’s basically a group of locals, both artists and supporters of the arts, wanting to do something exciting for the town this summer,” he said.

The Connemara native, who has been living in Roscommon for the past five years, said organisers have been working hard over the past 12 months in order to see BallaghDream become a reality.

“It’s a massive amount of work with meetings taking place each week to ensure everything works smoothly,” Wes said.

“The events are taking place at existing venues so there are a lot of moving parts in terms of availability and technical set-up and working with business owners. It’s quite a lot of work but we’re nearly there”.

The public response to the event has so far been encouraging and organisers like Wes say they are thankful for the support.

“An event like this hinges on people buying tickets of course and we are happy that they seem to be selling well. We are beginning to get excited now and we are really looking forward to the festival starting this Saturday,” he concluded.

Have

in all our depots for mechanic services doing timing belts, clutches, general service with service light rest, exhaust, batteries with free alternator and battery checks, shocks, brakes, diagnostics, bulbs, wipers, light focus

Launching details of the festival earlier this year were members of the Festival Committee (pictured at Edmondstown House): Patsy McGarry, Neil Sheridan, Julie Sharkey, Tuesday Whitfield, Sean McGarry, Carol Conlon, Wes Pollington. Not present were Anne McGreal and David Ewings. Picture by Marek Petrovic

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Lúnasa, and Matt Molloy are amongst leading Trad attractions

One of the highlights of the inaugural BallaghDream Arts Fest will be a night of Traditional Irish music featuring the world famous Irish trad band Lúnasa, with Ballaghaderreen native Matt Molloy (The Chieftains) performing with John Carty, as well as sisters Cora and Breda Smyth.

Lúnasa’s Irish roots go deep into Irish tradition,

musical and otherwise. The band is named after the ancient Celtic harvest festival in honour of the Irish god Lugh. They formed in 1997 from members of some of the greatest Irish groups of the previous decade, a sort of supergroup before that term was familiar to us. An early review from Folk Roots magazine described the band as an “Irish music dream team”.

Having since sold over a quarter of a million records and performed over 2,000 shows across 36 countries, Lúnasa has won multiple awards and become one of the most influential bands in the history of traditional music. The show on Wednesday, 9th of August will also include a performance from arguably Ballaghaderreen’s most famous export, Matt Molloy. Matt has for years been rated as the number one flute player in the world.

From his early days with the Bothy Band to a stint with Planxty, Matt then joined internationally famous Irish band The Cheiftains. He has toured the world numerous times, winning countless awards including six Grammys with the trad supergroup. Matt will not be performing alone on the night. He will take to the stage alongside his long-time friend and collaborator TG4 musician of the year John Carty, as well as guitarist Mike McCague. Opening the show will be fiddle-playing sisters Cora and Breda Smyth from Straide, Co. Mayo. Both are no strangers to the world stage as the two of them have toured with Michael Flatley’s ‘Lord of the Dance’ and ‘Feet of Flames’. Cora also played violin in the group that represented Ireland and won the Eurovision Song Contest with ‘The Voice’. Breda has also brought her love and knowledge of Irish music to wider audiences as presenter of RTE’s television series ‘The Fleadh’. Appearing on the night also will be six-time world champion Irish dancer Ronan Kelly. It all adds up to an incredible night of trad music in the magnificent St Nathy’s Cathedral. General admission tickets to this event are €25+BF and are available from www.ballaghdreamartsfest.ie or from Towey’s Newsagents, Main St., Ballaghaderreen. Door tickets (if any remain) will be €30.

Matt Molloy

Lúnasa

Thrilling night of electronic music is not to be missed

Workshop earlier in day

The biggest attraction at the BallaghDream Arts Fest for the U-40s age group (and a few of the fortysomethings no doubt) will be the night of electronic music in the Castle Nightclub in Ballaghaderreen on Friday, 11th of August.

The night will include a performance by one of Ireland’s most successful electronic musicians of the moment, who happens to be a native of Charlestown in Co. Mayo. Elaine Mai’s debut album ‘Home’ was released in 2021, and was nominated for the choice music prize Irish album of the year, an incredible achievement for a first release.

Irish artist Daithí will also appear on the night. A native of Co. Clare, Daithí has twice been nominated

for the choice music prize for album of the year, first for his album L.O.S.S. and again in 2021 as part of his band Houseplants, for their album Dry Goods. His unique style blends electronic music with his traditional Irish music upbringing as he loops his fiddle over electronic beats and synthesizer sounds.

With Ballaghaderreen live looping artist Death Milkshake – whose sound is a more rock-influenced, beat-driven form of dance-punk – opening the night (doors open at 9.15 pm), this promises to be the unmissable night of the festival for those who enjoy electronic and dance music.

For those who are interested in making this kind of music, there is another unmissable opportunity earlier on the same day.

At 11 am at Willowbrook Glamping & Hideaways, Daithí and Elaine Mai will

run a hands-on workshop where they show participants how to use Ableton Live, the software which they use to write their music and to perform it live also.

Being in a position to give people the chance to meet these incredible artists and to take the first steps to creating the type of music they create, with their hands-on help, is an unbelievable coup for the festival.

No experience is necessary to take part in the workshop and a free download of the software will be made available. A laptop and headphones are required in order to take part. Tickets to the workshop (€40 + BF) are extremely limited and must be purchased online at www.ballaghdreamartsfest.ie. They include a guest list spot for the show later that night.

BallaghDream Arts Festival

Tickets to the show are priced at €18+BF from Towey’s Newsagents, Main St., Ballaghaderreen,

or from www.ballaghdreamartsfest.ie. Door tickets to the show (if any remain) will be €25.

Brolly and O’Mahony amongst guests for GAA panel discussion

To honour the proud tradition of GAA in the town of Ballaghaderreen, the team at BallaghDream Arts Fest have curated an event which brings together local and national GAA personalities for a panel discussion. The night (Friday, 11th of August) will include an appearance by the only manager to bring the Sam Maguire Cup to Connacht in the last 50 years, local Ballaghaderreen man John O’Mahony, as well as 1993 All-Ireland Football Championship winner, Joe Brolly of Derry. They will be joined on the night by some notable local GAA personalities, for what promises to be a great night of reminiscing, stories, and craic.

John O’Mahony, a Ballaghaderreen local, led Galway as manager to AllIreland Senior Football Championship victories in 1998 and 2001, and guided Leitrim to success in the 1994 Connacht Senior Football Championship. In 2009, he was named in the Sunday Tribune’s list of the 125 Most Influential People In GAA His-

tory. He is a long-standing member of Fine Gael who has served as both a TD and Senator.

Joe Brolly was a prolific sportsman, playing basketball for Ireland and Gaelic football for Derry and Ulster. He won a senior All-Ireland medal with Derry in 1993 and has multiple other awards and accolades. He is known in living rooms throughout the country as a straight-talking, engaging and sometimes controversial figure. He writes a weekly column with the Sunday Independent and is a regular contributor on national radio and television across a wide range of subjects.

John and Joe will be joined on the night by Western Gaels clubman and former Roscommon senior intercounty footballer Sean McDermott, former Ballaghaderreen and Mayo inter-county footballer Andy Moran, and Ladies GAA and AFL star Cora Staunton. General admission tickets to this event are €20+BF. Door tickets (If any remain) will be €25. Cora

Staunton

Daithí

Elaine Mai

Lecarrow tractor and bike run in memory of siblings who drowned in Ballybunion tragedy

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Two Lecarrow groups will come together to host a Car, Tractor and Bike Run this Sunday (August 6th) in order to raise funds in memory of tragic siblings, Dessie Byrne (51) and Muriel Eriksson (62), who died in a drowning

accident while on holiday in Ballybunion, Co. Kerry a year ago.

Father-of-two Dessie, who was originally from Baylough, Athlone, had been living in Lecarrow for 20 years while his sister Muriel was home on holidays from Malmo, Sweden, where she lived. An inquest into the

tragedy found that their cause of death off Men’s Beach was accidental drowning.

The St John’s Lecarrow Vintage Club and Lecarrow Lazers Cycling Club, of which Dessie had been a member, will host the run from 3 pm this Sunday (registration from 12 pm).

newsbriefs

Kilcroan Cemetery Mass on August 13

Mass will be celebrated at Kilcroan Cemetery on Sunday, August 13th at 3 pm. A collection will take place, which the committee hopes will be generously supported.

Keadue Tidy Towns 5K Run/Walk

The annual Keadue Tidy Towns 5k Fun Run/Walk will take place this Friday, August 4th in Keadue. This year’s event is in aid of Keadue Tidy Towns and Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Registration takes place at 7 pm in Keadue Hall and the run/walk starts at 7.30 pm.

Refreshments/prizes in St Ronan’s Hall afterwards. All are welcome to participate.

Following the event, which includes a family fun day, an auction will take place in Coffey’s Pub, Lecarrow at 7 pm. The proceeds from both events will go towards the Dessie Byrne Memorial Fund, the local sub aqua club, and Ballybunion Search and Rescue.

Meanwhile, members of Dessie and Muriel’s family have travelled to Ballybunion this week where a memorial bench will be unveiled to mark the first anniversary of their deaths.

Provision of the bench, which is due to be blessed by the local parish priest in the seaside resort

today, was made possible following a successful Gofundme campaign which raised €7,600. Following the fundraiser, Dessie’s partner Paulette thanked all those who donated so generously and said that the amount raised “far exceeded our expectations”.

Crowds flock to Castlerea pool despite summer washout!

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Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice says Castlerea Outdoor Swimming Pool has experienced high visitor numbers this year despite a summer of mixed weather.

“We have had good crowds this year even with the recent wet weather because it’s a heated pool which means swimmers can still make use of it despite the rain,” he said.

“The pool will be open from Wednesday to Sun-

day each week right up until the end of August/ beginning of September so there is still plenty of time to enjoy it”.

There is a total of nine staff employed at the pool this summer.

Cllr Fitzmaurice said that the installation of new pool equipment has also made the facility more accessible for all users.

“I’m delighted to announce the new access for all equipment has been installed at Castlerea Out-

door Pool. The mobility chairlift is available for anyone who has a mobility issue. We also have three pool wheelchairs available for anyone who is in need,” he said.

“I was delighted to put forward a proposal to fund this essential equipment. Thank you to the Department of Community and Rural Development, Roscommon County Council, and all who helped to bring this inclusive equipment to Castlerea Pool”.

Deadline looming for sculpture submissions for The Square

Roscommon County Council has confirmed that they are now open to submissions from artists to produce a new sculpture with a budget of €49,000 for The Square in Roscommon town.

The deadline for submissions is 4 pm on August 23rd for the artwork, which will be mounted on a polished concrete plinth on the newly-developed Square.

The local authority says the ‘Sculpture on the Square’ commission is part of the final elements

of the Roscommon Town Main Street and Market Square Public Realm Project which was funded under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund.

The commission, it says, is intended to provide opportunities for dialogue and participation with the local community. Community representatives will be included in the assessment panel.

A description of the project on the local authority’s website reads: ‘As part of a two-stage competition, artists will be required to provide

a detailed project proposal including concept visuals, methodology, technical information, timeframe and budget breakdown.

‘After assessment, a site visit will be arranged. Successful artist(s) will engage with GKMP consultant architects, consultant artist Rhona Byrne and Roscommon County Council Regeneration Team and Arts Office to finalise the design output and installation on the polished concrete plinth.

‘For submission and queries contact Mary on msmyth@roscommoncoco.ie’.

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Castlerea Outdoor Swimming Pool

Local businesswoman and artist, Rita Oates, Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing, and National Drugs Strategy Hildegarde Naughton, and Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan pictured with artwork by young George Naughton at ETL/Anam Gallery during the minister’s visit to Roscommon on Wednesday.

Senator Aisling Dolan pictured with Minister Hildegarde Naughton and Joe Walsh with some ready-to-deliver chicken salads as part of The Melting Pot’s Dinner4U service.

Minister Hildegarde Naughton and Senator Aisling Dolan (right) pictured with members of the Roscommon town outdoor bowls team during the minister’s visit to Roscommon on Wednesday.

GOING OUT

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

Claire Kelly pictured with Lisa and Aoife O’Rourke during the St. Michael’s Special School fundraiser and Aoife’s homecoming event which was held in The Hub in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan Kevin, Ailish, Aoife, Lisa and Ann O’Rourke pictured in The Hub in Castlerea for Aoife’s recent homecoming event and the St. Michael’s Special School fundraiser. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Children from Music Generation Roscommon pictured taking part in the recent Boyle Arts Festival Parade which preceded the official opening of this year’s event. Pic: Brian Farrell

Ger O’Kennedy, Paul Burke, Patrick McCormack, and Cathal Joyce pictured at the recent ‘Play in Pink’ competition at Athlone Golf Club.

Anne O’Sullivan, Kevin Grealy, Bríd Kenny, and Anna Walsh pictured at the recent ‘Play in Pink’ competition at Athlone Golf Club.

Kathleen McDonnell presents the winner of the recent ‘Play in Pink’ event, Orla Kinahan, with her prize at Athlone Golf Club.

Monica Carty Ryan, Ann Finnegan, and Helen Murphy pictured at the recent ‘Play in Pink’ competition at Athlone Golf Club.

Margaret Bannon, Bríd Kenny, Frances McGettigan, Margaret Egan, Cepta McLoughlin, Deirdre Connolly and Mary McHale pictured at the recent ‘Play in Pink’ competition at Athlone Golf Club.

Denise Lally, Bernie Stapleton, Lily O’Sullivan, and Patricia Cleary pictured at the recent ‘Play in Pink’ competition at Athlone Golf Club.

Will hold their

52nd Annual Premier Show & Sale

on Wednesday Evening August 9th in Roscommon Mart

Show commences 4.30pm

Sale commences 7.30pm

Euro Star Rams available - eligible for Sheep Improvement Scheme

Enquiries to 087 3138792 / 087 7993682

Minister asked to clarify intended sheep measures

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has called on Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue to clarify what measures he intends to bring forward to support sheep farmers.

Deputy Kerrane, her party’s spokesperson on Agriculture, said she was echoing calls from farmers’ organisations such as the INHFA, ICSA, and IFA, who have called for urgent financial supports for the sector.

“While the Minister has acknowledged the difficult conditions sheep farmers are experiencing, he has not indicated what, if any, additional supports will be provided to the sector.

Castlerea MART WATCH

Slightly larger numbers of stock presented for sale this week and despite falling beef prices, and with no improvement in weather conditions, trade held up extremely well especially for quality stores.

The bullock ring witnessed the top quality lighter stores make up to €4 a kilo while heavier lots made up to €1,890.

The heifer rings saw prices peak at €1,910 with stores similar in price to last week while the dry cows topped out at €2,090.

Cows with calves at foot made up to €2,450 while the weanling rings noticed the bulls peak at €3.62 a kilo with good demand for quality lots. The calf ring with numbers maintained reported a good clearance. Young calves made from €160 to €320 with runners making from €410 to €850 for continental lots.

A Dairy Dispersal Sale took place on Tuesday, July 25th in association with Taaffe Auctions. 66 lots presented for sale on the day with cows making up to €2,560 and a full clearance taking place. Demand was excellent with lots finding homes in different provinces, and the AA stock bull made €1,700.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday, August 3rd) with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Sample prices for bullocks: Lm 470kgs €1810, Lm 450kgs

€1750, Lm 485kgs €1940, Ch 435kgs €1550, Ch 480kgs

€1640, Lm 620kgs €1790, Ch 545kgs €1590, Lm 525kgs

€1470, AA 595kgs €1640, Ch 650kgs €1700, Lm 755kgs €1890.

Heifers: Lm 405kgs €1290, Lm 420kgs €1240, Ch 370kgs

€1070, Ch 485kgs €1380, AA 495kgs €1320, Lm 460kgs

€1290, Lm 690kgs €1910, Lm 545kgs €1530, Lm 540kgs

€1490.

Dry cows: Ch 850kgs €2090, Lm 780kgs €1970, Lm 725kgs

€1830, Lm 695kgs €1730, BBx 530kgs €1320, Lm 525kgs

€1390, Her 510kgs €950, Her 600kgs €1270.

Weanling bulls: Ch 295kgs €1070, Lm 270kgs €960, BBx 415kgs €1380, Lm 380kgs €1280, Lm 330kgs €1190, Ch 350kgs €990, Sh 270kgs €740, Lm 265kgs €800.

Weanling heifers: Lm 295kgs €830, Lm 280kgs €820, Lm 225kgs €670, Ch 365kgs €970, Chx 348kgs €900.

“When I queried him on this in the Dáil in May, he stated that his officials are ‘monitoring the sheep market situation’ and that ‘the Government will continue to make every effort to support the sector’”.

The Brexit Adjustment Reserve has been identified as one possible avenue of funding that could be explored.

“It was previously suggested that the Brexit adjustment reserve (BAR), may be an avenue to explore, which the Minister dismissed,” the Sinn Féin TD said.

“The Minister has still not provided detail on what terms were looked at by

ACRES extension deadline welcomed

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Agriculture Claire Kerrane has welcomed an announcement by the Minister of Agriculture that the deadline for scorecards under ACRES has been extended.

“I had been clear with Minister (Charlie) McConalogue that an extension of time until the end of September, as I had proposed, was a small tweak to the scheme that would help to ensure it is a success for those in it,” Kerrane said.

“It is a pity that the Minister did not make this announcement sooner and reduce the stress many advisors have been under. They had, in my opinion been given an impossible task with a deadline of the end of this month”.

Deputy Kerrane said she hoped the extension would give advisors and farmers peace of mind and that the Department “will be quicker in future in making decisions that are sought in good faith from farmers”.

Sheep farmers can’t survive on current prices – ICSA

ICSA Sheep Chair Sean McNamara has said that sheep farmers cannot survive on prices that have been consistently worse than last year.

“Sheep farmers were hammered in 2022 when lamb prices tumbled while our costs were rising sharply, and the situation is even worse now with prices down on this time last year, and remaining a very long way from where they need to be,” he said.

Mr McNamara said farmers were under “severe financial pressure” with no let up in input costs and no real justification for why prices are being slashed.

ICSA have again put the case forward for a

his Department and where a blockage was found for using the BAR to provide funding for the sheep sector.

“In the last week, there has also been calls from the INHFA for a new €9.5 million package for Ireland from the European Commission to be used to provide financial support for the sheep sector.

“The Minister has not yet clarified how he intends to utilise this package, but Member States are required to notify the Commission how they will allocate the funding. I have now requested that he publish that information as soon as possible”.

Development Chairman Michael Biggins also highlighted the need for additional funding for ACRES applicants as well as a new national suckler scheme to replace BEEP-s.

Macra launches Budget submission

Macra na Feirme delegates recently met with Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue to submit the group’s pre-Budget submission, with priorities aimed at creating a stronger and more progressive agricultural sector for young farmers.

sheep payment worth €35/ewe in talks with Minister McConalogue this week, however, Mr McNamara said this was the very least that needed to be done.

IFA presents preBudget priorities

An IFA delegation, led by President Tim Cullinan, recently presented the association’s preBudget priorities to the Minister for Agriculture.

“At the outset, we made it clear to the Minister that his plan to delay payments to farmers this year is totally unacceptable and must be revisited,” Mr Cullinan said.

The IFA President said the focus of the delegation was on measures needed to combat deflated output prices and inflationary pressures, and to restore viability to low-income farms.

IFA Farm Business Chair Rosemary McDonagh also called on the Minister to ensure that all agri tax reliefs were renewed. The issue of 0 per cent VAT on non-oral animal medicines was also raised.

Among the other issues raised, IFA Rural

“Macra members want to see positive changes and that change starts with investing in young people as we are the future of rural communities,” said National President Elaine Houlihan. “Our budget submission this year has a broad mix of different priorities centred around eight action areas presented in our ‘steps for the future’ demonstration last April”.

Sustainable suckler sector must be protected – INHFA

The Irish Natura & Hill Farmers’ Association has said a recently published Teagasc report (Marginal Abatement Cost Curve) must not become the basis for delivery of Ireland’s climate targets.

The INHFA Vice-President Michael McDonnell has said that a reduction in suckler numbers has not resulted in fewer Co2 emmissions, and highlighted the sustainable nature of the sector.

He also called for the new national suckler scheme to be made available for all suckler farmers and that a rate higher than €60 per cow be paid.

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane

FarmingPeople NewsPeople

There was a good entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s special bullock sale with a strong trade for all classes. Bullocks fetched an average of €2.24 per kilo up to €3.42 per kilo. There was a smaller entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.22 per kilo up to €2.48 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

We had a larger number of sheep on offer at our weekly sale of lambs and cast ewes. Prices for finished lambs made up to €152. The tops for stag ewes fetched €190.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Next sale of lambs and cast ewes is Wednesday next, August 9th at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www. livestock-live.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: Char X 800kgs €1,980, Lim X 785kgs €1,950, Lim X 735kgs €1,740, BBX 785kgs

€1,770, SIX 795kgs €1,800, SHX 760kgs €1,680, Lim X 730kgs €1,620, SAX 690kgs €1,560, Lim X 520kgs

€1,200.

Bullocks: Lim X 475kgs €1,620, Char X 480kgs €1,625, Char X 650kgs

€1,930, Char X 695kgs €2,000, Lim X 650kgs €1,930, Char X 685kgs €1,900, Lim X 650kgs €1,700, Char X 565kgs

€1,680, Lim X 590kgs €1,550, Char X 485kgs €1,540, Char X 505kgs €1,360, Lim X 485kgs €1,340, AAX 515kgs

€1,200, HEX 465kgs €1,280, AAX

615kgs €1,380.

Finished lambs: 51.1kgs €152, 53.2kgs

€150, 51.4kgs €150, 49.1kgs €147,

52.6kgs €146, 50kgs €145, 49.3kgs

€143, 48.2kgs €142, 47kgs €140,

46.6kgs €138, 44.3kgs €137, 45kgs

€135.

Store lambs: 42.3kgs €124, 42.8kgs

€124, 41.8kgs €119, 39.6kgs €115, 37.2kgs €112, 39.8kgs €107, 38.5kgs

€106, 39.6kgs €105, 38.8kgs €100,

37.2kgs €100, 36.7kgs €98, 34.7kgs €90.

Varadkar backs campaign to get more women elected

Women for Election is expanding a national campaign to get more women elected in the local elections in 2024.

A public appeal is now being made across Ireland to help identify and encourage women to run in the next local elections.

Women for Election’s vision is an Ireland with full participation by women in Irish politics. The group said: “With just 24% female councillors elected in the last local elections, a lot more women need to be selected into winnable seats in the 2024 elections.

“We want to see 1,000 women on the ticket in the 2024 local elections. We want these women to reflect the diversity of women in Irish society and we want to see all parties putting meaningful supports behind these women to help them to succeed and enter political life”.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has pledged his support, saying: “When we fail to provide equal opportunities and access for women into politics, we miss out

Show and Sale of Autumn

Born Weanlings

11 a.m.

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

Wednesday, 9th August

West of Ireland Registered Pedigree Suffolk

Sheep Breeders Club

Premier Show and Sale Show 5.30pm Sale 7.30pm

Saturday, 5th August at 11 a.m.

Opening Sale of Breeding Ewes and Hoggets

Each Saturday there after - Gates open at 8 a.m.

on a truly representative democracy. We limit our economic, cultural and political progress. We perpetuate outdated stereotypes and prejudices that hold us all back.

“That is why I am supporting Women for Election and their CountHerIn in campaign, and I look forward to seeing more women come forward to contest the local elections

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has urged the Government to come to the table with a deal that will meet the very basic demands of Retained Firefighters as their strike action escalates. Speaking having met with retained firefighters in Ballinasloe last Friday morning, Deputy Kerrane said, “The Labour Court’s recommendation was overwhelmingly rejected by SIPTU members in the Retained Fire Service. In fact, SIPTU went as

Joanna Mitchell from Loughrea in County Galway recently donated a cheque for €1,540 to the Cardiology Department at Portiuncula University Hospital. Joanna ran the Great Limerick Run halfmarathon and raised funds for the Cardiology Department through a GoFundMe fundraiser. Hospital staff members are pictured accepting the cheque from Joanna on behalf of Portiuncula Hospital. Pictured are Grace Gannon (Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Cardiology), Professor Aidan Flynn (Consultant Cardiologist), Joanna Mitchell, Evelyn Mullins (Clinical Nurse Specialist, Cardiology), and Maura O’Connell (Assistant Director of Nursing, Portiuncula University Hospital).

in 2024”.

CEO of Women for Election Caitriona Gleeson said, “We are really eager to get as much momentum (as possible) behind female candidates heading into 2024. It is important as many women as possible are given the opportunity to run.

“We know, from research, women tend to need to be asked and encouraged to

far as to say the deal put on the table was a major disappointment and would do nothing to address the recruitment and retention crisis in the service.

“Minister Darragh O’Brien, and Minister for Public Expenditure (DPER) Paschal Donohoe, have failed to step up to the plate and end this dispute with a credible offer genuinely designed to address the core pay issues in the Retained Fire Service. This dispute is being escalated

run more than male counterparts. That’s why we’re asking people to look around their kitchen table, their community halls and workplaces and ask themselves would they run? CountHerIn is a campaign to encourage women to put themselves forward and for people to nudge others to go for it”. For more, see www.womenforelection.ie.

and it is a disgrace that the Government are sitting back while the Retained Fire Service is on its knees.

“People living in County Roscommon and Galway are depending on the Retained Fire Service and Retained Firefighters. The men and women involved who put their lives on the line deserve better. Minister O’Brien must secure agreement with DPER to ensure that Retained Firefighters receive the fair deal from this government that is long overdue”.

Pictured are Women for Election Intern Aimee Kane, Women for Election Chair Alison Cowzer, and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.

Business

Murphy’s ‘Eir mail’ over faulty landlines

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Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy recently proposed writing to Eir following an increasing number of complaints about the telecommunications company’s response times to landline breakages.

Speaking in the Seanad prior to summer recess, Murphy said he had received a number of complaints from local customers.

“The difficulty for some members of the public in getting a quick response from Eir in relation to landline breakages is concerning,” Murphy said.

The Fianna Fáil Senator said landlines were a vital link for senior citizens and that breakages were simply taking too long to fix.

NBI: Survey works complete for 1,000 more Roscommon homes

National Broadband Ireland (NBI) has confirmed this week that engineering survey works have now been completed for a further 1,000 premises in County Roscommon.

The company rolling out the new high-speed fibre broadband network under the Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) has said that homes,

businesses, and farms in Ballaghadereen and Edmondstown are included in this deployment area. There are approximately 19,000 premises in the intervention area in Roscommon including homes, farms, commercial businesses, and schools.

There are now 8,369 homes, businesses, and farms across the county

Uisce Éireann welcomes EPA Report

Welcoming a recent report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which highlighted continued improvements in the safety of Irish drinking water, Uisce Éireann’s Head of Asset Operations, Tom Cuddy, said that increased investment in water treatment is working.

The latest Drinking Water Report published by the EPA shows that Ireland’s public drinking water supplies remain among the best in the world, with an impressive 99.7 per cent compliance with microbiological and chemical standards.

The report in particular recognises the ongoing improvements made by Uisce Éireann in testing, monitoring and assessing water supplies.

“The EPA Drinking Water Report shows that the resilience and security of Ireland’s drinking water supplies continues to improve. We have increased investment in our drinking water services year on year, and this is reaping big benefits for our customers and communities nationwide, giving them the assurance that, when they turn on their taps, they can enjoy clean, safe drinking water,” Tom Cuddy said.

that can order or pre-order high-speed, reliable broadband. National Broadband Ireland is calling on people living in Roscommon to visit the company’s website and see if they are ready to connect.

“Momentum has been steadily building in the progression of the National Broadband Plan rollout, with homes across the

country being connected to high-speed broadband. Our teams continue to work on the rollout plan and good progress has been made from surveying, design, build to connection works in County Roscommon,” said NBI Chief Executive Peter Hendrick. “Survey and designs are an important part of mapping out how every home,

farm and business will be connected, and they provide the blueprint for how the NBI fibre is laid.

The BCPs are also a key milestone in delivering access to high-speed internet in the Intervention Area, and we’re delighted to see these being connected for access - internally and externally - right across Roscommon”.

THE BUSINESS BRIEF(S)

Athlone Chamber launches awards night

Athlone Chamber of Commerce has launched its annual awards night, a prestigious event that recognises and celebrates outstanding achievements in the local business community.

The awards take place on November 4th at the Sheraton Hotel in Athlone and will bring together local industry leaders, entrepreneurs and other members of the business community.

A statement from the Athlone Chamber read: “As we prepare to host this momentous occasion, we invite businesses, community leaders, and sponsors to join us in supporting Athlone Chamber of Commerce Awards Night.

“This event presents a unique opportunity to showcase your commitment to fostering a thriving business ecosystem and enhancing the well-being of our community.

“The awards will also serve as an excellent platform for networking, fostering new partnerships, and strengthening existing connections. Guests will have the chance to mingle with industry experts and like-minded professionals, creating synergies that will propel our local economy forward”.

A record month for electric cars - SIMI

New figures, released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI)

“They are breaking down and there is no chance of getting them fixed for weeks and weeks,” he said. “We must always remember in relation to those landlines there is the security aspect too, where many of them are linked up to the alarms.

“Would it be in order that we could write to Eir? I know they’re no longer a semi-state body and can longer invite its representatives in here (Seanad). We could invite them to appear before a committee however. It is simply not good enough that people can sometimes be waiting for eight, ten or 12 weeks, particularly when the alarm is so important to them”.

Murphy said delays could be due to a lack of trained staff.

“Some of the staff tell me the issue is down to a lack of staff. The staff are trying to cover a huge area and they simply cannot do it,” he said.

“In some cases, even on Saturday mornings, some staff actually go beyond their duty of care and what they are responsible for to try to look after people who have been waiting for a long time to get their telephone lines repaired. The service is just appalling at the moment and Eir has to do better”.

share at 32.29 petrol, diesel accounting for 22 per cent, hybrid 18 per cent, electric 17.6 per cent, and plug-in electric hybrid 7.7 per cent. A surge in battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and hybrids now see their combined market share (year to date) at 43.35 per cent.

Roscommon businesses urged to enter Financial Services Awards

this week, show that July was a record month for electric vehicles with new registrations up 52 per cent on this time last year.

New car registrations for the month of July were up 24 per cent (27,148) when compared to July 2022 (21,904). Registrations year to date are up 20 per cent (104,641) on the same period last year (87,115).

For the month of July 4,161 new electric vehicles were registered compared to 2,729 in July 2022. So far this year 18,458 new electric cars have been registered in comparison to 11,175 (up 65.17 per cent) on the same period in 2022.

The car market share also grew in July, with petrol retaining the largest

Organisers of the 2023 FS Awards (Financial Services) in association with KPMG, are calling for entries from businesses across Roscommon to help recognise Ireland’s top financial services leaders.

The prestigious event will take place on Thursday, October 26th, at the Round Room, Mansion House, Dublin, with a gala ceremony attended by Ireland’s leading financial services company executives, teams and brands.

Following on from the inaugural event in 2022, the awards will reaffirm Ireland’s position as a global financial services hub and a unique gateway to Europe for global and local businesses alike.

PropertyPeople

For further details and to arrange a viewing contact Deirdre at Bradley Homes on 086 171 3417 or E: sales@bradleyhomes.ie www.bradleyhomes.ie

FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR SALE

Stonehaven Cottage Three Bed Bungalow on c. 0.59 acres

Sonnagh, Creggs Co. Galway

Three Bed Bungalow on c. 0.121 acres

Palmyra, Knockroe, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Three Bed Bungalow on c. 0.5 acres Parkroe

Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

• Traditional Irish Cottage Built in the 1800’s

• Recently renovated & redecorated

• Investment opportunity. Suitable for Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant • Town location on corner site

• Development opportunity to complete to own specification

• Provision for underfloor heating. Triple glazed windows. All connections on site.

Joint selling agents James Kilcoyne, Ballaghaderreen, T: 094 986 0039 E: info@jameskilcoyne.com

All enquiries in confidence to Deirdre at Bradley Homes 086 171 3417, sales@bradleyhomes.ie

Castlerea property ‘a prime investment opportunity’

Stonehaven Cottage on the market with Bradley Homes

On the market with Bradley Homes is Stonehaven Cottage, located at Sonnagh, Creggs, Co, Galway. This is a traditional Irish cottage built in the late 1800s, located outside the village of Creggs on the Galway/Roscommon border. This property comes to the market full of character and charm, and offers the potential purchaser a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of traditional Irish heritage and

Residential sites for sale with Bradley Homes

Bradley Homes has a number of residential sites for sale at the moment in both Roscommon and Galway. A circa 0.61 acre site, with derelict residence, is for sale at Moher, Lanesboro, Co Roscommon. A circa 0.5 acre site is for sale at Kilmore, Ballygar, Co Galway, and a circa 0.61 acre site is for sale at Glenamaddy, Co Galway. A circa 0.75 acre site complete with full planning permission is for sale at Ballinamore Bridge, Co Galway, and a circa 0.5 acre site is for sale at Toghergar, Ballygar, Co Galway.

For maps and further information, contact Deirdre of Bradley Homes on 086 171 3417 or email sales@bradleyhomes.ie.

own an authentic home in a picturesque rural area, complete with beautiful views spanning acres of forestry and green fields to soothe the soul on a daily basis.

The location, although rural, is not too remote, with it being just a mere ten-minute drive from Creggs village, five-minute drive from Glinsk and circa ten minutes from the town of Glenamaddy.

Sonnagh (Sonnach) is a local farming community where people enjoy the daily running of business without the stress of town/city living that we have become accustomed to.

Renovated and redecorated in recent times, the cottage has all the mod-cons one would expect nowadays. Accommodation includes an open plan living/dining room, kitchen with integrated appliances, three double bedrooms and a main bathroom. There is a large shed (approximately 58’ x 12’7) to the side, which has been re-roofed and offers fantastic potential for further development to increase the usable living space. Services include mains water, electricity, OFCH with new ‘combi’ boiler and septic tank on site.

Stonehaven Cottage is a must for viewing and is sure to be quickly snapped from the market. To arrange your appointment now, contact Deirdre on 086-1713417 or email sales@bradleyhomes.ie.

On the market with Bradley Homes, representing a prime investment opportunity for buyers, is a two-bedroomed detached bungalow situated on a private corner site of approximately 0.121 acres, located in the town of Castlerea, Co Roscommon (F45 FW24). The property is in need of renovation and should qualify for the vacant Property Refurbishment Grant of up to €70,000.

The house, originally built in the 1950s, appears to be in good structural condition, but needs a new roof and upgrading inter-

nally. Coming in with an internal floor area of approximately 1,178 square feet (109 square metres) and a BER rating of G, the potential here is excellent. This sale offers an opportunity to purchase a property which represents good value in today’s market and owners can endeavour to bring it back to its former glory. Both the living room and dining room are large, open-plan rooms and the layout could be changed to turn the residence into a threebedroomed property, which in turn increases the value. Accommodation includes a porch to the

front with flat roof, an entrance hallway, a large sitting room to the left with bay window, a kitchen to the rear with flat roof, and a large dining room. There are also two generously sized bedrooms and a main bathroom. The location is within walking distance of all amenities on offer in Castlerea, including schools, shops, the church, the golf club and the train station, which services all stops between Dublin and Westport.

For further information, contact Deirdre on 086-1713417 or email sales@bradleyhomes.ie.

Stonehaven Cottage, located at Sonnagh, Creggs, Co, Galway.

Castlerea, Co Roscommon (F45 FW24).

Newly-refurbished cottage new to the market with RE/MAX Team Earley

This week, Cathal Meares of RE/MAX Team Earley is delighted to present to the market this newly-refurbished, twobedroomed, traditional-style cottage, located at Ballyglass, Ballinagare, Co Roscommon

(F45V120) with fantastic countryside views and excellent access in a tranquil rural setting.

The property has been updated to a high standard within the last three years, to include a

brand new roof and chimneys, new double-glazed windows and doors throughout, new floors, doors (and doorframes) and beautiful venetian blinds.

A gorgeous solid-fuel stove takes centre stage in the living

area and heats the entire home in winter, complimented by oilfired central heating system.

The open plan kitchen – complete with duel fuel rangemaster cooker and commercialstyle fittings – is a chef’s

dream. And there is a generous picture window affording beautiful views of the expansive back garden and rolling fields beyond.

There is excellent internet and Sky TV coverage thanks to lo-

cation of a broadband/satellite tower within close proximity to the site, making the property ideal for remote workers!

There is also a large shed (4m x 6m) to the rear of the house, which is newly floored and currently set up as a home gym. It would also be ideal for use as a workshop or simply for storage.

The property is located ten minutes from Castlerea (which has Lidl, SuperValu and a selection of cute cafés, along with multiple daily direct twohour trains to Dublin Heuston), thirty minutes from Knock Airport (with daily flights to the UK and regular flights to Spain, Italy, and other countries in continental Europe), and an hour to some of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches in Sligo

The BER rating for this property is F, and the auctioneer highly recommends viewing of this ready-to-go property.

For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact auctioneer Cathal on 0861409158.

Ballyglass, Ballinagare, Co Roscommon (F45V120)

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

‘West is best!’ Wild Youth promising ‘big party vibes’ at Ballygar Carnival

Roscommon People reporter, Dan Dooner, caught up with Dublin band Wild Youth ahead of their highly anticipated performance at this year’s Ballygar Carnival on this Sunday, August 6th…

How did your guys first meet? We grew up together. We are lifelong friends who make music together!

Describe your music style in one word… Diverse!

We loved your performance at Eurovision. Were you surprised you didn’t qualify for the final? Uhm, not really, it always felt a hard task. And something told us that it just wasn’t going to swing our way. But we’re so glad viewers enjoyed it and it was an amazing journey.

Author JP Rodgers to deliver three library talks in Roscommon

As part of Roscommon Heritage Week, Galway author JP Rodgers will be giving a series of library talks and readings in the county over the coming weeks.

John, who was reared in the notorious Tuam Mother and Baby Home until he was five, has written two books detailing his upbringing and the search for his own mother,

Bridie Rodgers, from whom he was forcibly removed when he was just one year old. His mother was sent to work in one of the infamous Magdalene Laundries, from where she escaped some years later by climbing over the wall.

John will be speaking about the impact this has had on his life and how he came to meet his mother

again after almost forty years.

John’s incredible life story and literary works have been the subject of numerous TV documentaries and interest by media outlets across Europe and America. As a result, he’s been approached by Hollywood film-makers with a view to turning his two books, ‘For the love of My Mother’ and ‘Egg-

What have you been doing/working on since then?

We’ve been working on new music, and we’ve just finished a sold-out UK tour.

Have you played out west before and are you excited to visit again?

Yeah. West is best, we love it!

What have you heard about Ballygar Carnival?

Just that the energy of the crowd is amazing. It’s a late show and it’s got big party vibes.

How did this gig come about?

Through an email (laughs).

What can the audience expect on Sunday, August 6th? A big, big show!

shells and Broken Dreams’ into a TV series.

JP Rodgers will be speaking in Roscommon Library, Abbeytown, Roscommon at 6.30 pm on Thursday, August 10th, in Strokestown Library at 6.30 pm on Thursday, August 17th, and in Boyle Library at 6.30 pm on Thursday, August 24th.

Naughton and Keane for Creggs Heritage Week concert

Creggs will mark Heritage Week 2023 with what promises to be a very memorable concert, when local man Colm Naughton will be joined on stage by his partner Orlaith Keane from Caherlistrane on Friday night, August 18th.

The village will be a hive of activity for Heritage Week this year, with a visit by the Pride of Place judges set for Wednesday 16th, the launch of the Biodiversity Action Plan for the village on August 17th, and the concert featuring Colm Naughton and Orlaith Keane on the 19th, with a Heritage Walk the same day. Colm and his family are wellknown musicians in the Creggs area. A son of the late Nellie and Arthur Naughton from Sonnagh, Colm and his siblings grew up playing a range

of musical instruments. Colm eventually settled on the banjo as his primary instrument, but he also plays mandolin, tenor guitar, bouzouki and acoustic guitar. He has been performing live for over twenty-five years and also records and teaches.

Orlaith Keane has a strong music lineage: from her grandaunts Sarah and Rita, through her father Matt and his siblings, including Seán and Dolores, but she is carving out her own niche. The musical influence of her family can be traced alongside her own interests in blues, bluegrass, country and folk music.

The Creggs concert will see her perform alongside her partner Colm in his ‘home place’ for what promises to be a lively and memorable event. Tickets for the event in Creggs

Irish language conversation meet-ups

Irish language conversation meet-ups for ‘refreshers’ will take place on Wednesdays from 10 am to 10.45 am in Rogue & Co Café on Main Street in Roscommon, beginning on September 20th, and ending on December 20th. If there is sufficient interest, the meet-ups will continue until after Christmas.

The conversation booklet ‘Focal Ar Fhocal’ will be used as an aid. It is published by ‘Comhaltas’ and ‘Gaeilge Abú!’ and will be provided for you.

NS are on sale in Roarke’s Spar in Creggs and cost €20. The event is organised by Kilbegnet Historical Society. Doors open at 8 pm and the concert will get underway at 8.30 pm.

Irish language conversation meet-ups for ‘improvers’ also take place already on Wednesdays in Rogue, from 11 am to 12 noon. This group is going strong, with seven regulars meeting weekly. Labhair Gaeilge linn!

Pictured is musician Colm Naughton, who will be performing alongside Orlaith Keane at the upcoming concert taking place in Creggs for Heritage Week.

Indie-rock band Wild Youth will headline this year’s Ballygar Carnival, performing at the Mattie McDonagh Centre on Sunday, August 6th.

Pictured is musician Orlaith Keane, who will be performing alongside Colm Naughton at the upcoming concert taking place in Creggs for Heritage Week.

ACCOUNTS

McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY

SERVICES CPA

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

ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS

< ALCOHOLICS ANONY -

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

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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 cowls and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services.

Telephone: 087 2798704

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Creighton

Chimney Cleaning

Fireplaces, Stoves, Ranges etc.

Modern Rotary Chimney Cleaning equipment used from the bottom up. Much cleaner than brushes, CCTV check if required. Areas covered: Castlerea, Strokestown, Elphin, Castleplunkett, Tulsk, Lanesboro, Roscommon Town, Killashee, Carrickon-Shannon, Scramogue, Rooskey, Kenagh, Tarmonbarry, Ballymahon and all surrounding areas. No climbing on roofs, tiles or slates, no mess, no fuss.

Fully Registered. Call Dave on 085 8888833

CHIROPRACTOR

CHIROPODIST

Kathleen’s Mobile

Footcare

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

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

COUNSELLING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Are you affected byAnger 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

FARMING

BOOM

GARDENING

GARDENING SERVICES

Including: • Hedge Cutting

• Hedge Planting • Grass

Cutting • Spraying

• Strimming • Weeding

• Garden Tidy-ups

GATELY GARDENING

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon

Approved Reg No: EI000083

< FOR SALE: Fordson Dexta tractor for sale. Phone: 087 7832939

< FOR SALE: 10ft x 6ft tipping trailer with balloon wheels, as new. 5ft Transport Box. 1 Tonne Bag of Timber. Block cutter for tractor. Call: 087 7733181

DOG LOOKING FOR HOME

< COLLIE: Dog looking for good home, 18 months old. Phone: 087 6901910

FOR SALE

< FOR SALE: New charcoal barbeque, glass shower door 2ft wide, ladies bicycle used but in good condition €70

o.n.o. Two interior doors

€70, Victor hedgestrimmer

€120, new hitch towbar for Peugeot 3008 192 model. Phone: 083 8828882

LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

• Wood Chipping

• Landscaping

• Timber Decking

• Patios

• General Maintenance

Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

l General Maintenance

Garden

and Patio Slabs

l Deliveries Available

l Laying Service Available

To make an appointment ring Peter on 087 4394142

Kilmore, Athleague F42 DX02

l Dangerous Tree Removal

l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped

l Wood Chipping

l Fully Insured Contact Alan

• Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member. Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklaw treeservices.com FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

For all your fencing needs. l GLAS Fencing l Grant Fencing l Post Rail Tel: 087 2172281

Jewellery Making/Wire Classes 2023

Saturday, 29th July

Jewellery Making Workshop

Rathcroghan Visitor Centre 10am to 2pm

Sunday, 13th August

Jewellery Making Workshop

Leitrim Village Community Centre 10am to 2pm

Thursday, 17th August

Wire & Gemstone Mini Tree Making Workshop

Rathcroghan Visitor Centre 10am to 3.30pm

Saturday, 23rd September

Jewellery making for Beginners

Rathcroghan Visitor Centre 10am to 2pm

Saturday, 11th November

Jewellery Wire Weaving for Beginners

Location to be decided. 10am to 4pm

All materials provided, use of all relevant tools. Tea/coffee included.

Book online or contact Phone: 086 8718176 www. hazelrocksjewellery.ie

PROPERTIES TO

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

< GRANNY FLAT: Available fro short term lettings, Creggs area, one bedroom, kitchen/living area, shower and toilet, good condition. Phone: 086 8447502

PLANNINGS

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Contact David who is a Chartered Civil/ Structural Engineer in regard to applying for your planning application, retention and grants. For further details, please contact any time after 6pm week days or any time on Saturdays on: 083 095 0732

Email: david.goaley@gmail.com

BEng, BEng(Ord), High.

Cert., MIEI, CEng.

Chartered Civil / Structural Engineer

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Keadew West, Keadue, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. We Fintan and Theresa Monaghan intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for development consisting of an extension to existing dwelling together with all ancillary works, site works and services at the above address.

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 opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission 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 the application.

Signed:

Fintan and Theresa Monaghan

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Gerard Dervin intend to apply for permission for development at Lisnamult, Cruby Hill, Galway Road, Roscommon. The development will consist of a change of use of an office previously granted permission under planning permission, Ref- PD/07/1599 to residential use consisting of one house and associated siteworks.

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors.

2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon. Ph: (087) 2222874

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS PLANNINGS

JEWELLERY PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Aidan Conneely intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of widening existing single agricultural entrance to land and onto N60 to allow for proper and safe entrance/ exit to agricultural land, removal of hedge and ditch forming part of front boundary and replacement of same with concrete block wall, removal of grass verge to form hard standing area adjacent to National Route N60 at Lissagallan, Cloverhill, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974. Mobile: 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Paul Naughton intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct dwellinghouse, domestic garage and install waste water treatment unit with polishing filter at Dundonnell Td., Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Paul Naughton

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Laura Kelly-McErlean and Mark McErlean, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning

permission:

1. To retain as constructed shared access road.

2. To construct domestic dwelling house along with domestic garage, new Treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Kielty, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906 634365 Mob: 085 1299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Tommie Devine intend to submit a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) in connection with planning reference PD/22/649

Initially submitted on the 17/12/2022 for permission to construct a livestock underpass under the R361 public roadway and associated siteworks at Frenchpark Demesne/ Carrowbane, Frenchpark. Following a requirement of the Planning Authority a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be submitted to the Planning Authority in connection with the application. The NIS will be available for inspection or purchase, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during office hours at the offices of the Planning Authority. Subject to the payment of the relevant fee, a submission or observation in relation to the NIS may be made in writing to the planning authority within 5 weeks of the date of receipt by the authority of the NIS.

Signed:

Tommie Devine

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Aidan Fallon, intend to apply for retention permission for the development at, Toberdan, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon. The development consists of the alterations to the east, south and west elevations of the existing domestic garage. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Aidan Fallon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I Angela Adcock intend to apply for retention permission at Willsbrook, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The development consists of: Retention permission for a static caravan on the driveway to the right of the property at Willsbrook, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, it is needed as essential renovations are being carried out on the property there.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Dympna Tully, am applying to Roscommon County Council for the following:

1. Permission to demolish existing dwelling house and to construct replacement dwelling house set back, along with a domestic garage, upgrading existing septic tank to a treatment system with percolation area.

2. Planning permission to demolish existing shed attached to house.

3. Planning permission to construct a farm machinery storage shed and all ancillary site development works at Kileenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon, F42 K638

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

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0878228529

E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie

Architectural Designs – Consulting Engineers

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.

TURF:11 X 6½ trailer loads of turf for sale. Newbridge/ Ballygar/Athleague area. Can be delivered. Phone: 087 2639932

To have your advert seen by over 70,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in county roscommon!

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

Signed Angela Adcock.

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Sarah Fleming

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

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

For all foot ailments

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

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In

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

GRADY Rita Carnamadda, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

SCALLY Raymond (Ray)

No. 6 St. Ciaran’s Park and Lisnmult, Roscommon. (8th Anniversary)

FLAHERTY

Julie

Clooneyourish Athleague, Co. Roscommon. In loving memory of Julie who died on the 3rd August 2013.

LANNON

Bernie Joe Ballinafad, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

loving memory of my Mother Rita who died on 7th August 2019

We honor you for whom you were and the special things you’ve done That made your life so rewarding and made you such a special woman. Your memories are ours to cherish as we fondly remember your ways Keeping you safely tucked in our hearts is where you’ll always stay.

Always remembered and sadly missed by your son, Andy.

Beautiful memories are wonderful things, they last till the longest day, they never wear out or 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.

Loved & sadly missed by Marion and Michael, Niamh and Alan, Paul. Brenda, Caoimhe and Ruairi.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 6th August in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow at 11.30am.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

Roscommon

People, Abbey Street,

Roscommon

Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card. We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage. Thelocalpaper!

God called your name so softly that only you could hear, no one heard the footsteps of the Angels drawing near. The golden gates stood open, God saw you needed rest, His garden must be beautiful He only takes the best.

Our darling son-in-law Ray, we will never forget you.

Love Ann and Seamie Farrell.

BURKE

Margaret Goff Street, Roscommon (20th Anniversary)

your loving smile and gentle air, your vacant place no one can fill, we miss you mother and always will.

Loved and always missed by your husband John, Jack, Lorraine, Damian and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday, 12th August at 7pm.

M cDERMOTT

Nancy

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon

nieces and nephews.

McHUGH Josephine (Josie)

Hill of Berries, Kiltoom, Athlone (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dearly loved Wife, Mother and Nana R.I.P.

WARD Annie Scregg, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon (7th

In loving memory of Annie who passed away on the 30th July 2016

R.I.P.

We lost a mother with a heart of gold how much we miss her can never be told She shared our troubles and helped us along if we follow her footsteps, we will never go wrong It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone for part of us went with you the day God called you home

As we look upon your pictures sweet memories we recall of faces full of sunshine a smile for one and all You are always close behind us in everything we do you were a special mother, God’s gift to us was you

In loving memory of Margaret who passed away on 10th August 2003. R.I.P.

Quietly your memory we will always treasure, loving you always forgetting you never.

Lovingly remembered by your sister Eileen and family, Rahara.

Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 10th August 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.

In loving memory of our dear mother who died on 7th August 2021 R.I.P.

Sweet Jesus take this message to our dear mother up above, tell her how we miss her and give her all our love We hold her close within our hearts and there she shall remain to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again

Close to our hearts, your memory is kept, to treasure, to love and never forget.

Always remembered and greatly missed by your loving family.

Anniversary Mass for Nancy and her late husband, Walter will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloverhill on Saturday, 5th August at 7pm.

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Always remembered by your loving husband Pat, daughters Olive and Valerie, sons John and Padraig and extended family.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 6th August at 11.30am in the Church of the Risen Christ, Ballybay, Kiltoom.

So, rest in peace dear loved one and thanks for all you’ve done we pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won

Deep are the memories

Precious they stay

No passing of time Can take them away

Always loved and sadly missed by her sons Con and Aidan and daughter-in-law Kathleen. ~~~~~~~~~~~

To hear your voice, to see you smile, to sit and talk with you awhile. To be together in the same old way, would be our dearest wish today.

Lovingly remembered by her sisters Ellie and Sheila, their husbands Tommie and Sean. Her brother-in-law Sean, nieces, nephews and their families.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Tuesday, 8th August at 7pm.

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Rugby star Cian appeals for support for upcoming Alzheimer’s Memory Walk

Connacht Rugby star Cian Prendergast, the latest celebrity to get behind the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk for 2023, is calling for people in Roscommon and nationwide to participate to raise money and awareness for people living with dementia.

Cian, who recently got his first Irish senior cap, has experienced his grandmother living with dementia, and will walk for her when the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk takes place nationwide on Sunday, September 24th.

Cian recently launched Galway’s Salthill Prom Memory Walk, which will attract family members and those living with dementia around Galway to walk together in September. Cian joins fellow ambassadors, including leading business entrepreneurs Pamela Laird and Ellen Kavanagh Jones,

comedian Neil Delamere, TV personality Martin King, actor Bryan Murray, journalist and broadcaster Teena Gates, Miss Cork Rachel O’Leary, and Irish Rugby star Jenny Murphy.

The Alzheimer’s Memory Walk takes place in over thirty locations nationwide on September 24th, including The Demesne in Roscommon, Aughamore in Sligo, Lough Lannagh in Mayo, and Carrick-on-Shannon in Leitrim. Members of the public can register now for their participation pack on memorywalk.ie.

The Alzheimer’s Memory Walk is organised by the Alzheimers Society of Ireland (ASI). The ASI aims to secure over 3,000 walkers across Ireland to participate and raise funds for vital services supporting many people living with dementia and those who care for them.

These services include daycare, daycare at home, family carer training, social clubs, cafés, and a national helpline.

An estimated 3,553 people live with dementia in Galway. The national figure is estimated at 64,000, which according to leading dementia experts, will more than double in the next 25 years.

People can sign up now to participate in the 2023 Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, September 24th, at memorywalk.ie. Registration costs €5 for kids and €18 for adults, and includes a participation pack with a ‘Memory Walk’ t-shirt. The closing date for registrations to receive your participation pack is noon on Wednesday, September 20th. Those who cannot walk on the day can still support the Memory Walk by donating at alzheimer.ie.

Pictured at the launch of the Salthill Prom Memory Walk (proudly supported by Payzone) were Connacht Rugby player Cian Prendergast, Dementia Adviser for The Alzheimer’s Society in Galway Joanne Hourigan, and sisters Doireann (8) and Róise (6) Brennan. Pic: Andrew Downes, xposure.

Connacht Rugby player Cian Prendergast pictured with sisters Doireann (8) and Róise (6) Brennan at the launch of the Salthill Prom Memory Walk, proudly supported by Payzone. Pic: Andrew Downes, xposure.

Sports PEOPLE

Callington Ltd Intermediate Football Championship Group A

Shannon Gaels meet Kilmore in a local derby on Saturday in Croghan (6 pm) and there has never been much between them in recent years. Home advantage might just swing it for the Gaels.

Éire Óg, meanwhile, make the long trip to Kiltoom on Sunday to face St Brigid’s (4 pm) and last year’s beaten finalists should start their campaign with a win.

Group B

St Croan’s will be hoping to be involved at the business end of the championship this year and they should get their campaign off to a winning start when they play Kilbride on Saturday in Enfield (4 pm). They were unlucky last year but playing at home, should begin with a win.

Championship throws in!

Clubs renew parish rivalries this weekend

Ahead of the start of the 2023 Roscommon club football championships, Seamus Duke takes a look at some of the mouth-watering fixtures down for decision this weekend…

game of the weekend

It was a toss-up for top billing between this match and the clash of St Brigid’s and Pádraig Pearses in Kiltoom.

The recently crowned O’Rourke Cup champions, Roscommon Gaels, travel to face last year’s league winners and championship finalists Boyle in what should be an ultra competitive championship opener.

There will be plenty of star quality on

offer as Enda and Donie Smith, Cian McKeon, Daire Cregg, Peter Gillooly, John McManus, Cian Connolly, to name just a few, take the field.

Boyle were unlucky not to have won the Fahey Cup in 2022 and they will come back this year eager to go one better. No one will dispute they have the best attack in the county but they have been suspect in defence in recent years.

The Gaels will go into the game as underdogs but will relish the challenge on Saturday. There won’t be a lot in it.

Prediction: Boyle.

Elsewhere in Group A, Western Gaels and St Faithleach’s meet in Frenchpark on Friday night (7.30 pm). The sides look evenly matched. Home advantage might give the Gaels a slight advantage.

Group B

Having battled so long to get up into the senior ranks, St Dominic’s make their first senior appearance in a number of years when they welcome Michael Glavey’s to Knockcroghery on Friday night (7.30 pm). This looks a very competitive match but if Glavey’s can pick

as close to their strongest team for the match they may just be strong enough to win it.

Many people are tipping St Brigid’s to regain the Fahey Cup in 2023 and you can easily make a case for them. They open their account with a very tough game against old rivals Pádraig Pearses on Saturday night in Kiltoom (7.30 pm). With the likes of Brian Stack, Eddie Nolan, Ben O’Carroll, Shane Cunnane, Ruaidhri Fallon and Robbie Dolan from the county senior squad, they have to be on everyone’s shortlist.

But Pearses will be determined to show that they are far from finished as a force in Roscommon club football. With the Dalys, Davy Murray, Paul Carey, and a host of excellent young players on board, they will have a major say in the destination of the championship this year. Brigid’s get the nod however on home turf.

Group C

Champions Strokestown head to Johnstown on Saturday (5 pm) to begin the defence of their title in what is an inter-

esting clash.

Clann have not been going well this year and this will present ‘The Town’ with a great chance of getting their championship season off to a winning start. They won the O’Gara Cup recently and although they are short a number of players from their championship winning team, they will still be a difficult team to beat.

Clann, who desperately need a boost from somewhere, couldn’t have asked for a tougher first round match than this one. Strokestown to edge it.

Meanwhile, Oran were disappointed to have lost to Roscommon Gaels in the O’Rourke Cup final but they should get their championship campaign off to a winning start when they face Tulsk on Saturday in Creggs (7.15 pm). Sean Staunton’s men look to have too much firepower in this one.

Roscommon SFC 2023 betting: St Brigid’s 9/4, Pádraig Pearses 9/2, Boyle 5/1, Strokestown 7/1, Clann na nGael 8/1, Oran 8/1, Roscommon Gaels 8/1, St Faithleach’s 14/1, Western Gaels 16/1, St Dominic’s 20/1, Tulsk 33/1, Michael Glavey’s 33/1. (Paddy Power)

Fuerty will be one of the favourites to win the Jimmy Murray Cup this year and they should get their championship off to a positive start when they entertain an improving St Aidan’s at Mulhern Park on Saturday (6 pm).

Group C

‘Game of the Weekend’ in the IFC is surely the clash of Creggs and Castlerea St Kevin’s in Creggs on Saturday (4 pm). Castlerea are improving but were disappointed to have lost the O’Gara Cup final to Strokestown a couple of weeks ago. They will be put to the pin of their collective collars against Creggs, who have a number of very talented young players in their ranks. Hard to separate these two, a draw is likely.

Another team who will be anxious to get their hands on the Jimmy Murray Cup will be Elphin, who were relegated from the senior ranks last year. They make the long trip to Woodmount to take on Pádraig Pearses on Sunday (3 pm), and they should return with a win.

Note: There is also a full round of Dermot Hughes Cars JFC games this weekend.

Boyle v Roscommon Gaels

(Group A) on Saturday in Boyle at 4 pm

Rough and tumble: Dan O’Neill ends upon the ground after a tussle with Teige Cogavin during last weekend’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship match in Athleague. St Dominic’s were victorious on a scoreline of 1-16 to 1-13. See page 39. Pic Bernie O’Farrell.

U-15 hurlers too strong for Armagh

recently. The young Rossies ran out convincing winners in Middletown, Armagh and will contest the final on

Short putts

(News from local golf clubs)

on the 18th hole!

Community Games success for Ballagh!

Ballaghaderreen’s U-12 and U-14 Girls Gaelic football teams enjoyed a successful Community Games recently, with both progressing to the county finals in Ballyleague.

The U-12s were runners-up on the day to Roscommon/Kilteevan while the U-14s

Athlone

There was a big turnout for Captain Kathleen McDonnell’s Captain’s Prize recently, where 18 women qualified for a six-hole play-off. Nuala Hamilton eventually emerged victorious with a score of 96.67 nett, finishing just ahead of Celeste O’Regan in second place. Ann Geoghegan took the gross prize. Full list of results available on the club’s website.

Other recent winners in Athlone included: Lily O’Sullivan (Studio 7 competition); Michelle Dolan (9-hole); and Ann Finnegan (’97 Club).

Boyle

The Jack O’Sullivan team had a great first round win over Co Sligo (Rosses Point) on Saturday last.

Boyle, captained by Lochlainn Conboy, were very much the underdogs heading into the fixture while Sligo had home advantage for three of the five games.

Undaunted, Conboy and Jason Beirne and Vincent Egan and Liam Whyte won the two home games in Boyle while an impressive comeback win by Brendan Gaffney and Pat Brogan secured the win on the 18th in Sligo. Worth noting that Charlie O’Donnell and Ciaran Beirne were in the middle of their own comeback, leading by one walking down the 18th when they were called in.

Boyle take on the winners of Strandhill v Strokestown in the next round.

Carrick

Congratulations to Captain Dylan Beirne and his Junior Cup team who won the Connacht trophy in Westport last weekend, defeating Galway Bay 3-2 in a very exciting final with all three matches won

This was the first time in the history of the club that silverware was won at this level. Well done to Carrick’s history makers: Sean Mulvey, David McDermott, Charlie Boyle, Patrick Martin, Kyle Flynn, Paul Roche, and Gordon Kavanagh. Best of luck in the All-Ireland semi-finals.

From juniors to seniors, and the overall winner of last Thursday’s competition was Seán McMonagle with a score of 39 points. Other results: Cat 1 Anthony Noone (38); Cat 2 Damien Duignan (39); Cat 3 Edward Liston (34); Front 9 Paddy Duffy (19); Back 9 Tommy Mulvey (19).

Roscommon

Captain PJ Moran’s Prize to the Men takes place this Saturday and Sunday (5th and 6th) with a 36-hole stroke format. There will also be a 9-hole for ladies on Sunday.

Last week saw C O’Donnell (44 points) and K Walshe (37) win the men’s and ladies’ 18-hole competitions respectively. The ladies’ 9-hole was won by A Varley (20 points) while J Kilroy (38 points) and B Browne topped the gents’ and ladies’ senior leaderboards.

A quick reminder that the Club Classic takes place on Friday and Saturday, August 11th and 12th. Four Ping drivers are first prize with lots more on offer. Team of four costs €200 and you have a chance of winning a car for a hole in one on the ninth (sponsored by Dermot Hughes Cars).

Finally, best of luck to Olivia Costello, who will represent the Irish Girls’ Home International team in Lindrick, South Yorkshire from August 8th to 10th. Olivia also finished a very impressive third at the EGA Young European Masters last weekend in Slovakia.

Smith on Sunday Sport ‘Team of the Year’

Congratulations to Roscommon footballer Enda Smith, who has been chosen on RTÉ Radio’s Sunday Sport Team of the Year.

The Boyle man has had another superb campaign in Primrose and Blue and was deservedly selected in the half-forward line by analysts Paul Flynn, Colm Cooper, David Tubridy, and Eamonn O’Hara.

National record for Hollie

There may not have been any medals for Suck Valley athlete Hollie Kilroe at the recent European Youth Olympic Festival in Slovenia but there was a top 20 ranking in the 400m and a national record in the medley relay.

As reported here last week, Hollie just missed out on qualification for the 400m final but her time was good enough to place her in the top 20 athletes. She was also an integral part of Team Ireland’s relay team which set a national record at the games. Onwards and

went one better, defeating Drum/Clonown to claim a first ever county title for Ballaghderreen. The team went on to the Connacht finals where they defeated Galway (Carlistrand/ Kilcoonagh) in the semi-final but were

beaten by in the Connacht final by neighbours Charlestown.

Well done to all players and management for such a successful Community Games and all the best to Charlestown in the next stage.

upwards from here!

Egan takes Superleague honours

Mick Egan emerged victorious as The Hollywood Bar Superleague series continued last Friday night.

Egan overcame David Concannon 3-2 in an exciting final after both players had come through tough runs to the decider.

Group stage checkouts of 100 (Mark Finneran), 101 (Liam Conroy), 114 (Tony Connolly), 115 (Les Raw-

son), and 130 (Eoin Byrne) got proceedings under way, but top checkout on the night went to Wayne Harries with a 153 finish.

Egan’s run saw him through a tough group before wins over Jimmy Owens (3-2) in the last 16, Mark Finneran (3-1) in the quarter-finals, and Thomas Concannon (3-2) in the semi-finals.

Concannon topped his group before 3-0 wins over Paul Carton and Aaron Blaides in the last 16 and quarter-finals and a 3-1 win over Gerard Glynn in

the last four.

Olivia finishes third in Slovakia

Well done to Roscommon town golfer, Olivia Costello, who finished third place on the leaderboard at the EGA Young European Masters tournament in Slovakia last weekend. Next up is the Home Internationals tournament in South Yorkshire next week (August 8th to 10th) where Olivia will be in action for Team Ireland.

SPORTS DESK With Dan Dooner

Recent Hollywood Bar Darts Superleague winner Mick Egan (right) pictured with runner-up David Concannon.

The Ballaghaderreen U-12 Girls Gaelic football team, who were runners-up in the Community Games County Final recently.

The Ballaghaderreen U-14 Girls Gaelic football team, who won a first ever Community Games county title recently.

Maeve Dervin and John Bligh pictured at the Hub in Castlerea for ‘Parkrunabú! De hÍde’ on July 15th.

GAA Results

& Moffatt U-20 Division Three FC (Group B)

Castlerea St Kevin’s 4-10 Tulsk Lord Edwards 2-8

King & Moffatt U-20 Division Two FC (Group B)

Michael Glavey’s/Éire Óg W/O Kilbride

Kepak Senior Hurling Championship St Dominic’s 1-16 Pádraig Pearses 1-13

Roscommon Gaels 2-14 Oran 1-16

GAA Fixtures

Friday, August 4th

Dermot Hughes Cars JAFC (Group B)

At Parc Naomh Bearra: St Barry’s v St. Joseph’s. 8 pm

Hodson Bay Group SFC (Group A)

At Nash Park: Western Gaels v St Faithleach’s. 7.30 pm

Hodson Bay Group SFC (Group B)

At Knockcroghery: St Dominic’s v Michael Glavey’s. 7.30 pm

Saturday, August 5th

Callington Ltd IFC (Group B)

At Enfield: St Croan’s v Kilbride. 4 pm

At Mulhern Park: Fuerty v St Aidan’s. 6 pm Callington Ltd IFC (Group A)

At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v Kilmore. 6 pm Callington Ltd IFC (Group C)

At Creggs: Creggs v Castlerea St Kevin’s. 4 pm

Dermot Hughes Cars JAFC (Group A)

At Knockcroghery: St Dominic’s v St Ronan’s. 4 pm

Hodson Bay Group SFC (Group A)

At Abbey Park: Boyle v Roscommon Gaels. 4 pm

Hodson Bay Group SFC (Group B)

At Kiltoom: St Brigid’s v Pádraig Pearses. 7.30 pm

Hodson Bay Group SFC (Group C)

At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Strokestown. 5 pm

At Creggs: Oran v Tulsk Lord Edwards. 7.15 pm

Sunday, August 6th

Callington Ltd IFC (Group A)

At Kiltoom: St Brigid’s v Éire Óg. 4 pm Callington Ltd IFC (Group C)

At Woodmount: Pádraig Pearses v Elphin. 3 pm

Dermot Hughes Cars JAFC (Group B)

At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Western Gaels. 2 pm

Dermot Hughes Cars JAFC (Group C)

At Kilbride: Strokestown v Tulsk Lord Edwards. 12.30 pm

At Croghan: St Michael’s v Ballinameen. 2.30 pm

Dermot Hughes Cars JAFC (Group A)

At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Kilglass Gaels. 1 pm

Monday, August 7th

U-21 Hurling Championship

At Athleague: Roscommon Gaels v Four Roads. 5 pm

On the Pitch…

Handball

Hattrick of Connacht titles for Roscommon!

Roscommon took home a hattrick Connacht handball titles from the 60x30 Juvenile ‘B’ finals in Collooney, Co Sligo last Sunday Coman’s’ Patrick Farrell, Mark Farrell and Aaron Leonard sealed provincial honours.

The youngest of the three, Patrick Farrell, defeated Marc McSheera from Leitrim in the U-11 grade on a scoreline of 15-0, 15-3.

Aaron Leonard was just as impressive in the U-14 grade, where he overcame Galway’s Ryan Shaughnessy.

Shaughnessy had been quite impressive in his semi-final, but right from the start Aaron stamped his authority on the game by keeping the ball out at the back of the court at all times.

In a battle of left-handers, the Abbeyknock-

Buccaneers RFC

Couper’s Troopers take tag title

moy lad was just worn by a relentless Leonard in the end, and was beaten on a scoreline of 153, 15-5.

The final match of the day turned out to be the most entertaining. It featured Patrick’s brother Mark Farrell against Cian Maloney from Galway in the U-13 grade.

It all looked to be going comfortably in the first as Mark’s solid hitting and good volleying took him to a 15-0 win, but the Galway youngster adapted very well in the second and took a long, hard game 15-12. A remarkable response.

In the third game, the lead changed hands a number of times, but Mark eventually came out on top in a real thriller, 15-11.

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

Buccaneers Tag Rugby Summer League concluded with an exciting series of finals with Couper’s Troopers taking the top honours. Congratulations to all who participated especially the following winners: Cup – Couper’s Troopers; Plate – RugBK; Bowl – Geraldine; Shield - RugBK2.

Pollard and Sheehan in Ireland U-18s

Two highly promising young Buccaneers players, hooker Jack Pollard and centre Thomas Sheehan, have been included in the Ireland U-18 squad for a week-long development camp against their Welsh, Scottish and Italian counterparts. The squads will train together at Cardiff University in August and the camp will wind up with 30-minute matches against each of the other teams. We wish Tom and Jack continued success.

14 in Connacht Youth squads

Fourteen Buccaneers players have been selected for training in Connacht squads ahead of the upcoming youths interprovincial series. Andrew Henson, Kyle Byrne, Kyle Mahon and Kailin Blessing are named in the U-17 panel with a trio of Ireland internationals, Patrick Egan, Niall Tallon and Sean Rohan, included in the U-19 squad. Buccs’ biggest representation is in the U-18 squad where Atega Awhinawhi, Dylan Bruton, Thomas Cotton, Eoin Naughton, Charlie O’Carroll, Jack Pollard and Thomas Sheehan feature.

Training in full swing

Pre-season training for adult players is now in full swing as kick-off to the new season is fast approaching. Training for Firsts, Seconds, Thirds and U-20s takes place at Dubarry Park on Tuesday and Thursday evenings with players ready to go on the paddock at 7 pm. New players at all levels always welcome.

The Connacht Senior League fixtures have been confirmed with Buccaneers hosting Corinthians in the opening round on August 19th. The Energia All-Ireland League commences with a fixture away to St. Mary’s College on Saturday, October 7th

Rugby Summer Camp

Buccaneers are holding a Rugby Summer Camp for boys and girls aged 7 to 12 years at Dubarry Park. Supported by Smith’s Supervalu Monksland, the five-day camp takes place from Monday, August 14th to Friday 18th from 9.30 am each day. Contact Geraldine at 086-1732711 or email rugby@dubarrypark.com to register.

In association with the

Player Profile - Family Special!

While a number of our teams are taking a break from competitive action during the holiday season, the ball keeps rolling for others.

This Friday, all of our eight U-11 teams have matches. Town 1 EL and CL are at home to Ballinagare as are Town 2 EL and CL who welcome Moore. Town 3 EL and CL are away to Dysart while our two girls’ teams travel to Dunmore. On Sunday, our four U-9 teams have matches. Town 1 are at home while Town 2 are in Castlerea.

Our Real and Atletico U-14 teams face each other on Monday next. On Tuesday, our Town 2 U-12 team are in Dunmore.

Making a stand

Over the coming weeks, a new spectator shelter will be erected beside the main pitch in Roscommon Community Sports Park. This will enhance the match day experience, especially when there is inclement weather, and will be a welcome addition to the sports complex in Lisnamult.

Name: Rian and Senan Grogan

Team: Rian U-14 Rovers; Senan - U14 Real

Position: Rian right wing; Senan striker

Three words that describe me: Rian - Fast, Determined, Committed. Senan - Fast, Funny, Honest

Skill strength: Rian - speed; Senan - speed

Skill weakness: Rian - tracking back; Senan - right foot

Favourite team: Rian – Chelsea; Senan - Barcelona

Favourite player: Rian – Nkunku; Senan - Messi

Favourite Irish player: Rian - Shane Long; Senan - Callum Robinson

Best stadium in the world: Rian – Wembley; Senan - Camp Nou Messi or Ronaldo or Neither: Rian – Ronaldo; Senan - Messi

PlayStation or Xbox or Neither: Rian – PlayStation; SenanPlayStation

Favourite film: Rian - Dark Night; Senan - Star Wars

Favourite food: Rian – Steak; Senan - Nanny’s Spaghetti

Favourite song: Rian - California Love (Tupac); Senan - Miracle (Calvin Harris, Ellie Goulding)

Favourite book: Rian - I don’t read books!; Senan - Bad Dad by David Walliams

What makes me happy: Rian - Friends and TikTok; SenanFriends and sport

Person you admire the most: Rian - My dad; Senan - Messi

Why I play soccer: Rian - I love it; Senan - I love it. I play every day. Hopes for the season: Rian - To win the quadruple; Senan - To win the season.

Pictured is the Roscommon Town 1 U-14 team which won the Sevens Cup recently.

Patrick Farrell won his U-11 Connacht handball final last weekend in Collooney, Co Sligo.

Aaron Leonard defeated Galway’s Ryan Shaughnessy in the U-14 Connacht handball final last Sunday in Co Sligo.

Mark Farrell joined his brother Patrick in winning a Connacht medal in Sligo last Sunday. Mark defeated Cian Maloney in the U-13 final.

- Kepak Roscommon SHC

Gaels continue impressive start

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon Gaels’ excellent season continued last weekend when they defeated Oran by a point in a very tight match in Athleague.

This latest victory for Ronan O’Meara’s team means that they will qualify for the quarter-finals alongside Oran, St Dominic’s and the winner of the clash between Pádraig Pearses and Tremane. Athleague and Four Roads will contest the semi-finals.

The Gaels sowed the seeds of victory in an impressive first half

IN THE FRAME

Weekend hurling in photos

display. Goals from Chris Duignan and Jack Fleming helped them to a 2-8 to 0-5 interval lead.

But Oran were much better on the resumption and they nibbled away at the deficit. With four minutes left, Cathal Kenny scored a fine goal to level the scores but the town team finished well and Brendan Quinn knocked over a priceless winner in injury-time.

Final score: Roscommon Gaels 2-14 Oran 1-16.

In the second game of the weekend, Pádraig Pearses slumped to another defeat as St Dominic’s prevailed by three points (1-16 to

1-13). A Mickey Joe Egan goal gave Dominic’s an early advantage but Pearses dug in and were very competitive in what was a disappointing match. David Sweeney got in for Pearses’ goal midway through the first half and there was only a point in it at half-time. St Dominic’s were slightly the better side throughout the second half and Mickey Joe Egan was in sparkling form from the placed ball, scoring 1-13 of his side’s total. Pearses will now have one last chance to save their season when they play Tremane in two weeks’ time.

Oran goalkeeper Jerry Fallon drives the ball up the field during last weekend’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship match between Roscommon Gaels and Oran.

Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Cian Martin loses his footing but still manages to get a hand pass away to brother Jason during last weekend’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship match between St Dominic’s and Pádraig Pearses at Athleague.

Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Chris Duignan celebrates his goal during last weekend’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship match between Roscommon Gaels and Oran. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell