05 January 2024 Roscommon People

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05 January 2024

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02

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

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TUS student Stewart Metcalfe from Rooskey, Co Roscommon receives his award from Dr Fiona Skelly, Lecturer (left) and Dr Clare McDermott, Lecturer (right) during the recent TUS annual student awards held on the Athlone Campus.

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

090 647 8433 Planning Permission www.bccsolicitors.ie

I would like to build an extension to my house but I am unsure if I need to apply for planning permission. I understand some extensions may not require planning permission provided they are under a particular size, is this correct? Are there any other restrictions?

Whether the proposed extension to your property requires planning permission or not will depend on a number of factors. Generally, small domestic extensions will not require planning permission if it does not exceed 40 square metres in size. However, any previous extension must also be considered so that the combined area of all extensions may not exceed 40 square metres.

For terraced or semi-detached houses, the floor area of any extension above ground level may not exceed 12 square metres. Also, the extension may not exceed the height of the house and the extension may not reduce the area of private open space to less than 25 square metres.

Specific rules also apply regarding height. For example, if the rear wall of your house does not include a gable, the height of the walls of the extension must not exceed the height of the rear wall of your house. If the rear wall of your house has a gable, the walls of the extension shall not be higher than the side walls of your house. In the case of a flat roofed extension, the height of the highest part of the roof may not exceed the height of the eaves or parapet. In any other case, no part of the new roof may exceed the highest part of the roof of the house.

It is strongly advisable to speak with your architect or engineer regarding your specific plans prior to commencing works. Your Local Authority can take action if a development does not have the required permission, or where terms of permission have not been met.

The Local Authority may require you to take whatever steps they deem necessary in order to regularise the development.

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TUS Student Sarah McTiernan from Fourmilehouse, Co Roscommon receives her award from Dr Don Faller, Dean of Faculty, Science & Health (left) and Dr. Deirdre Walsh, Lecturer in the Department of Social Science (right) during the recent TUS annual student awards held on the Athlone Campus.

Pic: Nathan Cafolla

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Stewart Metcalfe from Rooskey and Sarah McTiernan from Fourmilehouse were among 137 high-achieving students whose academic achievements were proudly celebrated by the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) on its Athlone Campus at this year’s annual student awards recently.

Students enrolled on courses like

Social Care, Applied Psychology, Nutrition and Health Science, Automation and Robotics, and Virtual Reality and Gaming received commendations, recognising their attainment in the last academic year.

Dean of Faculty, Science & Health, Dr Don Faller said, “Facilitating and rewarding excellence in academia throughout the student lifecycle is a positive and impor-

tant affirmation for the students.

We wish our students continued success in their academic endeavours and hope that this recognition further incentives them to continue excelling in their chosen fields of study”.

Several of the awards were generously sponsored by industry partners like Ericsson, Grant Engineering, Zinkworks and Abbott,

with TUS also sponsoring two inaugural awards in memory of the late Dr Brian Garvey and Dr Attracta Foley, esteemed lecturers in the Faculty of Engineering and Informatics.

TUS President Prof. Vincent Cunnane extended his heartfelt congratulations to the award recipients, acknowledging their dedication and bright future prospects.

Lough Ree RNLI host major fundraising event tonight After another busy year on the water, having responded to 38 calls for assistance, Lough Ree RNLI are beginning the New Year with a fundraising table quiz on January 4th in The Bounty

at Buccaneers Rugby Club, Athlone.

Now in its 200th year, the charity will celebrate its birthday on March 4th 2024, with many events planned throughout the year.

At a local level, the requirement for financial support is as important as ever. All boat crew go through intensive training throughout the year, facilities and equipment is in constant need of renewal, and the demand for the emergency service continues to grow on Lough Ree and the River Shannon.

The average cost of training a crew member is over €1,500, and to provide a drysuit, lifejacket and helmet adds another €2,000 to the bill.

Around 140 people die by accident in Irish and UK waters every year. The volunteer RNLI crews remain on call to respond to any emergency. In 2022, there were 1,387 people aided, 30 of which were categorised as ‘lives saved’.

The treasurer of Lough Ree RNLI Vincent Rafter said, “The charity values the brilliant support it receives from the community around Lough Ree and visitors to the midlands. We look forward to meeting all our friends and supporters at the table quiz. This is one of the most significant fundraising events for Lough Ree RNLI and makes a great contribution to safety on our waters”.

The 7th annual RNLI Table Quiz takes place on January 4th, 2024 at 8 pm in The Bounty at Buccaneers Rugby Club. A table of 4 costs €40.

Come along to the quiz to support this worthy cause and enjoy a great way to start the New Year!

03

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople

Fatal crash in Boyle on New Year’s Eve

THE WINNING ROSCOMMON TOWN CHRISTMAS WINDOW DISPLAY – J.J WARD & SONS: Pictured at the presentation of the winning cheque to James Ward for the best Christmas window display in Roscommon town (sponsored by AIB). In the photo are (l-r) Carmel Reilly from AIB, James Ward, Eunice Kennedy from AIB and Sean Mahon of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a fatal road traffic collision in Boyle, Co. Roscommon on Sunday, 31st of December, 2023.

Gardaí and emergency services were alerted shortly before 5 pm after two cars collided on the N4 at Doon near Boyle.

The driver of one of the cars, a woman in her late 80s, who has been named locally as Helen Horan (née Kelly), was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the second car, a man in his 30s, was taken by ambulance to Sligo University Hospital. His injuries are understood to be serious.

A technical examination of the scene by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators was carried out and investigating Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward. They are also appealing to those with camera footage, including dash-cam, to make it available to them.

Anyone with information can contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094-9621630 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople

Water level at Lough Funshinagh ‘extremely high for this time of year’ Roscommon County Council has confirmed that the water level at Lough Funshinagh is extremely high for this time of year, which the local authority says is “especially concerning”.

In an update, by way of a press statement, the Council said: “In respect of the considerable rainfall of recent weeks, Roscommon County Council can confirm that the water level at Lough Funshinagh is extremely high for this time of year.

“This is especially concerning when considering that peak levels are typically seen in early spring, which is still several months away.

“Due to the High Court challenge taken by Friends of the Irish Environment against Roscommon County Council, flood relief works that would have protected homes, property and public infrastructure in the general vicinity of the lake cannot be completed and no new works can be undertaken”.

The Council says it is fully committed to providing whatever flood protection measures can be provided and is in regular communication with local residents and public representatives.

“However, and unfortunately, because of the court order, such measures are limited to localised flood defences and pumping in the immediate vicinity of the affected properties.

“These measures have been relatively

effective so far this winter; however, there is a growing concern that as levels continue to rise due to climate change and unprecedented amounts of rainfall, we may reach a point at which such

measures will no longer be adequate.

“The Council also continues to work in partnership with the OPW to identify an acceptable long-term solution for Lough Funshinagh. The hydro-

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“While this progress towards a longer-

term solution is positive, Roscommon County Council is ever-mindful of the ongoing and immediate challenges facing local residents and the wider community”.

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Lose more in ‘24’…seven top tips for successful weight loss from Slimming World There’s something so motivating about pressing the ‘reset’ button and starting a New Year with a fresh set of goals – a brand-new year for a brandnew you.

Here are seven top tips from Slimming World to help you taste the freedom, succeed in reaching your goals and make 2024 your healthiest and happiest.

there’s a brand new library of more than 50 on-demand activity videos to do at home”.

3. Be kind to yourself

1. Don’t go hungry Pauline Bliss, who runs the Slimming World groups in Hannon’s Hotel in Roscommon, St. Kieran’s Community Centre in Athlone and St. Joseph’s Resource Centre in Boyle, says; “To lose weight you have to eat less, right?

Well, not always. The kind of food you’re eating is much more important than the volume. Swapping high calorie, unsatisfying foods (think chocolate, alcohol, pastries) for foods that are lower in calories and more bulky, so they fill you up for longer, is key to losing weight in a way that’s easy to live with.

“Research shows that by basing your diet on foods relatively low in calories, like fruit and veg, and foods that are most filling – or satiating – like lean meat, fish, eggs, pasta and

potatoes, you can actually eat a larger amount of food and feel more satisfied while losing weight.

“Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan takes away the tedium of weighing, measuring and counting the calories in everything that you eat (and drink).

Every week in their local group members learn how to make healthier choices to satisfy their appetite and lose weight beautifully, without hunger or guilt.

It’s based on an understanding of the science of energy density, an area of research which Slimming World has been actively involved in”.

2. It’s OK to walk before you run!

Trish Keegan, who runs the groups in Gleeson’s, Roscom-

mon and in the GAA Centre in Castlerea, says “If it’s your goal to get fitter, remember you don’t have to become a professional athlete to get active – just making a commitment to moving more all adds up. Many people make the mistake of joining a gym, overdoing it in week one and quickly giving up, thinking ‘exercise isn’t for me’.

“Finding an enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable way of building new active habits into your routine is key – anything that gets you moving more, from heavy gardening or vigorous housework to brisk walking, dancing, cycling, or playing frisbee in the park, counts.

“What’s most important is making it a regular habit. Slimming World groups are packed with motivation and ideas on how to get more active, and

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We all start January with great intentions, but it’s all too easy to go off track. It’s what you do next that matters most – the most important thing is not to beat yourself up about it.

A Slimming World survey of 1,700 slimmers showed that when they did have a slip-up, being self-critical was more likely to lead to comfort eating and giving up completely, whereas when they were kinder to themselves, they more quickly got back to healthy eating, lost weight and they kept it off. So, cut yourself some slack!

4. Set a goal Aisling Anderson, who runs the group in The Fiddlers Elbow in Ballaghaderreen, says “When thinking about your dream weight, don’t be afraid to be ambitious. In fact, Slimming World research found that slimmers who set ambitious targets lose twice as much weight as those who try to be ‘realistic’.

“At Slimming World groups, as well as setting an overall weight loss target, members set weekly mini-goals, whether it’s

to lose weight, get more active, or plan ahead, because setting goals is more likely to lead to success”.

you, having a flexible approach and a balanced mindset is much more likely to deliver long-term success”.

5. Don’t opt for a quick fix

7. You don’t have to go it alone

It’s no secret that many people find losing weight far easier than keeping it off long-term.

To avoid becoming trapped in a yo-yo diet cycle, it’s important to approach weight loss as a permanent change to your lifestyle – and focus on developing new healthy habits that are sustainable for life, as well as getting support to make those changes. Research shows that the more groups Slimming World members attend, the more successful they are.

6. Strike a balance Breanne Farrell, who runs the group in the Sports and Community Centre in Strokestown, says “An all-or-nothing approach is rarely effective when it comes to weight loss. Restricting yourself when it comes to food and drink might work in the short-term, but pretty soon you’ll be fed up, hungry and giving up completely. A little bit of what you fancy is key! That might be a Saturday night glass of wine, or a bit of chocolate in the evenings. Whatever it is for

The principles of losing weight are quite simple, yet if it was that easy – we’d all be doing it!

Studies show that embarking on your weight loss journey alongside other slimmers brings more success than going it alone – sharing tips and advice, as well as the ups and downs, and celebrating success together.

The power of the group and the peer support members give one another is what sets Slimming World apart. Our members become part of a community, something special, which helps them to realise that they are not alone in the challenges they face. That’s combined with our personalised approach – called IMAGE Therapy – which helps every member discover more about themselves as a slimmer, identify their own pitfalls and danger zones, and create plans to overcome them.

To find out more about Slimming World and how to join, visit www.slimmingworld.ie, or check out your local group details in the advertising feature.

Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!

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06

Roscommon People Friday 05 Janaury 2024

NewsPeople

Unveiling of ‘The Souls of Ranelagh’ monument On the 21st of December 2023, a monument was erected on a mound on the new roundabout on the N61 just outside Roscommon town.

This was sculpted by local sculptor Mark Feeley to commemorate, depict and represent the forgotten souls of a nearby townland, Ranelagh, who had been excavated during an archaeological dig in 2015/2016 – and their longforgotten story.

In 2021 at a meeting of Roscommon County Council a motion was passed by county councillors to erect a sculpture in recognition of the discovery of the archaeological site on the N61 in Ranelagh. Thereafter, the proposal was forwarded to the Roscommon Town Team to proceed with the project.

A sub-committee of the Town Team was established and a project plan established and implemented. The main objective was to produce a monument that would depict/represent the find in Ranelagh, the lifestyle of the people and what had happened at the site.

The features of the Ranelagh monument are multifaceted in that they represent many different aspects of this extraordinary archaeological find in the townland of Ranelagh.

Monument features The stone is a feature in itself, in that the back is covered with amazing fossils which are millions of years old. This stone, like the people found on the site, and their lifestyle, are of the earth of Roscommon. The stone was acquired by the sculptor, Mark Feeley in Lecarrow Quarries, just outside Roscommon town.

A CELTIC CROSS: This represents the transition from Paganism to Christianity during the lifetime of the site in Ranelagh. It is also a religious memorial to the people who were buried there, affording them dignity in their death and acknowledging their existence.

WARRIOR WOMAN: The Warrior Woman depicted in the sculpture is symbolic of all the invading races that attacked, and often settled in Ireland in the past. She represents the AngloSaxons, the Normans, the Vikings and any other invading force that has settled here in years gone by.

Analysis of an older female remains found on the site shows that she, or her immediate ancestors, were migrants to Ireland. She had no other relatives in the Ranelagh area and she exhibited links with the Anglo Saxon population in Britain. Research indicates that she had “red hair, pale to intermediate skin tone and brown or hazel eye colour”.

THE LIFE-SIZED FARMER: This represents the farming community that lived in the ringforts surrounding this site and who used it as a regional administrative centre. He also represents the males that were buried in this forgotten cemetery. He is holding a spear, which represents one of the artefacts found on the site – the only single weapon found – a socketed iron spearhead. He is depicted as a strong man, indicating the strength needed to farm

Photo: Mary Lane

completely manually during this time.

THE CHILD’S FACE: The child’s face which is carved in the rock represents the children found in the forgotten cemetery on the site. Like the farmer, the child is coming out of the rock, representing the fact that the children buried in this cemetery were of the land of the area.

The teardrops on the child’s face reflect the hardship of the times. Life for

men, women and children was an arduous physical existence, with a high risk of dying in infancy and younger childhood.

Sculptor Mark Feeley said: “It is only fitting that there is a proper memorial to this population of this area who had been forgotten for centuries. All I want to do is to spark an interest in people to learn about the fascinating story of the people of Ranelagh, our ancestors here in Roscommon, to research it properly and learn about our rich history and culture here in this amazing county of ours”.

Background information

The cover of the book ‘The Forgotten Cemetery’ – which features an artistic impression of what the site may have looked like.

The N61 Coolteige Road Project was initiated to straighten, and make safer, a dangerous stretch of road just north of Roscommon town.

An archaeological assessment before the road works began uncovered a previously unknown archaeological site consisting of an enclosed settlement and burial ground near the summit of a low hill in Ranelagh Townland, just north of Roscommon town.

Full excavation of the Ranelagh site commenced on 15th of October 2015 and was completed on 28th of October 2016. Extensive analysis of the findings opens a fascinating window into the lives of generations of ordinary people in the area.

Findings Over the space of 1000 years the Ranelagh site, which began as a simple univallate settlement cemetery grew, through several phases of expansion and modification, into a substantial regional or administrative centre for the surrounding population, becoming central to their burial practices.

The remains of 557 articulated burials (the remains were in one piece and the bones were in order) were recovered from the site; 170 adults and 387 juveniles. In addition, disarticulated bones, representing a minimum of 108 individuals – 33 adults, 45 children and 30 babies – were recovered.

The earliest in situ burial discovered at the site was that of an older adult female who dated to AD 428 to 601. The latest burial comprised of a baby dating to 1463 to 1641 AD. The majority of the remains date to the early medieval period – AD 640-1020.

The demographic profile of the Ranelagh cemetery contains burials at a ratio of 1.8:1 (female to male). It is likely (or at least possible) that at least some of this disproportion comes from later males being buried off site.

A notable aspect of the Ranelagh burials was the occurrence of a high proportion of juveniles aged less than 18 years (69.6%), the majority of whom were babies less than one-year-old. Premature babies, unborn babies and their moth-

ers and those who were newly born are all represented in the burial ground in Ranelagh.

Further information In 2023, TII published an excellent publication titled The Forgotten Cemetery by Shane Delaney and Eileen Murphy, which describes the excavations – and post-excavation work – carried out at the Ranelagh site. (The book has been shortlisted for a series of high profile heritage awards, including at Listowel Writers Week, the European Association of Archaeologists’ book award and in the Publication and Dissemination category at the very recent Archaeological Achievement Awards. It has recently been shortlisted for the 2024 Current Archaeology Book of the Year Award).

The digital version of the book is available at: https://www.tii.ie/technicalservices/archaeology/ publications/tii-heritage/ A StoryMap is available at: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/ stories/0abac355011e4b92 b8624fdaa5e3cf9a *Article submitted by Marie Gillooly on behalf of Roscommon Town Team sub-committee

07

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople LETTER TO THE EDITOR

A letter of gratitude to local volunteers Dear Editor, As we are fortunate enough to be alive to see another year out and a New Year in, do you ever take the time out to ask yourself ‘What have I to be grateful for?’.

As Charles Dickens’ famous quote goes: “Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some”.

Here in Roscommon, I believe that we have a lot to be thankful for. Just think of the amount of people that give of their time freely to make this town a welcoming, warm and friendly town to live in.

We have seen so much of this over the Christmas season.

For example, the lights committee that spent days preparing the town with beautiful festive lights and the life-size crib that adorned the square. Also, the newly-formed male choir gave of their time to entertain us. Then there are other choirs, the folk group, Comhaltas Ceoltoiri and other groups and schools, the altar society that adorned our church so beautifully for our carol service (that always heralds the start of Christmas for me). All these people gave of their time so generously to help us to celebrate this special time of year.

Indeed, there are so many people that give of their time so generously all year round, enhancing the life of so many people in this town, including the Tidy Towns group, St Vincent de Paul, Girl Guides, to name just a few that sometimes might go unnoticed.

This festive season should be a time when we show our gratitude to them all. Thank you.

Wishing all of you a very happy, healthy, grateful and peaceful New Year.

Yours sincerely, (Name and address provided, but withheld on request)

Tributes paid to renowned Lecarrow native Dr Martin Feeley ‘A doctor unafraid to question the consensus’ Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon native Dr Martin Feeley, who has died at the age of 73, was a highly regarded consultant vascular surgeon and also a former international rower.

While always highly respected in the medical field, Dr Feeley came to wider prominence during the Covid-19 pandemic during which he was an

outspoken critic of the Government’s response.

Dr Feeley’s opposition to Government policy in frequent media appearances at the time ultimately led to his resignation as Clinical Director of the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group.

Born in 1950, Martin Feeley grew up in St John’s, Lecarrow. He was an accomplished rower in his youth, representing Ireland in the men’s coxless four event in the 1976 Summer Olympics.

After graduating from UCD with a degree in medicine, he was conferred with the diploma of Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 1979. He went on to take a Master’s degree in surgery at the National University of Ireland (in 1985). In 2015, he became group clinical director at the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group, having previously been a consultant vascular surgeon and clinical director at the Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr Feeley emerged as a dogged opponent of government-imposed restrictions. In media interviews, he raised concerns that younger people, considered to be at low risk, were most affected by the “draconian” restrictions.

He also argued that those in the low risk category should be exposed to the virus so as to develop herd immunity and reduce the risk to more vulnerable groups.

His stance was very much at variance with the establishment view, which arguably compromised him professionally. In September 2020 Dr Feeley resigned from his post with Dublin Midlands

Hospital Group after the HSE disputed his comments.

Dr Martin Feeley died suddenly at his home in Dublin on Thursday, 21st of December. He is mourned by his wife Colleen, children Tara, Iain, Emmett and Aoife, siblings Willie, Maura, Jacinta, Benedicta, Hugh and Anita, grandchildren, brothers and sisters-in-law.

His death notice read: ‘Relentless in his pursuit of excellence across all facets of his career and passions, unyielding in defence of his beliefs.

Martin was known for his unparalleled principles, integrity and honesty. A gentleman who gave it his all, he will be remembered as an exemplary surgeon, colleague, advocate, mentor, athlete, coach and friend. A man who leaves an incredible legacy. He was a gift to us all’.

Meanwhile, many tributes have also been paid on social media, including from people who worked with him over the years. Dr Feeley was described as a lovely man who was very kind to fellow medical professionals. Independent TD Michael McNamara tweeted that the late Martin Feeley was “a doctor unafraid to question the consensus”.

Another tribute on Twitter read: ‘A great man who wasn’t afraid to stand alone in the face of adversity. If only we had more men like him in this country. We lost a good one. RIP Dr Feeley’.

Another tweet read: ‘This poor man was shunned… by the HSE… for challenging the ‘science’ that caused untold damage to people, unnecessary lockdowns, mental health issues, loss of business. RIP Dr Feeley’.

Appeal against Christmas Sale Now on Monksland supermarket % 50 refusal UP TO

OFF

CHRISTMAS DECOR

< EMMETT CORCORAN

MCS River Village Limited, the developers behind a proposed new supermarket in Monksland, County Roscommon, have lodged an appeal with An Bord Pleanala. This move follows the refusal of planning permission by Roscommon County Council last month.

The development, planned for a greenfield site near the Joe Duffy car showroom, Monksland, included the construction of a single-storey supermarket with an ancillary off-licence sales area. The design also featured revised vehicle and pedestrian entrances, surface-level car parking with electric vehicle charging spaces, cycle stands, a trolley bay, and landscaping.

The project aimed to enhance environmental sustainability through the inclusion of roof-mounted photovoltaic panels and a comprehensive plan for future electric vehicle parking.

Roscommon County Council said its refusal was based on three key conditions. The first condition highlighted the development’s generic design and

car-centric approach, which the council claimed failed to align with the mixed-use objective of the ‘district centre’ zoning. The council expressed concerns that the development would not contribute to creating a ‘sense of place’ nor provide a high quality public realm for the district centre. The second condition focused on the potential creation of a car-dependent, single retailer space, which would not integrate well with the surrounding district centre-zoned lands. According to the council, this approach was viewed as contradictory to Roscommon County Council’s smarter travel initiative.

Lastly, the third condition critiqued the generic design approach for lacking architectural merit and failing to consider the specific site context.

A decision from An Bord Pleanala, on the appeal, is expected by April 29th, 2024.

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ARDCARNE GARDEN CAFÉ (Boyle branch) Open 7 days

08

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NOTICE OF DEPOSIT OF RATE BOOKS FOR INSPECTION AND OF INTENTION TO MAKE RATES COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT OF ROSCOMMON Notice is hereby given that Roscommon County Council is about to make County Rates on the property rateable thereto in the County Health District of Roscommon.

The Rateable Valuation Multiplier for the ordinary expenditure of the County Council for the service of the financial year ending December 31st 2024 is 225 cent.

The Rate Books are deposited for the inspection of any Rate Payer in the offices of the Rates Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon and will be available for inspection between the hours 10.00am and 1.00pm during the next fourteen days following the date hereof, exclusive of Saturdays and Sundays.

Dated this 2nd day of January, 2024 Sean Mullarkey Head of Finance, Procurement, Enterprise, Building Control and Emergency Services -----------------------------------------------------------------------

FÓGRA GO BHFUIL LEABHAIR RÁTAÍ AR FÁIL LENA N-INIÚCHADH AGUS GO BHFUIL SÉ AR INTINN RÁTAÍ A DHÉANAMH DÚICHE SLÁINTE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN Notice Tugtar fógra leis seo go bhfuil Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin ar tí Rátaí Contae a dhéanamh ar mhaoin inrátaithe i gCeantar Sláinte Contae Ros Comáin.

Is é 225 pingin an t-iolraitheoir luacha inrátaithe do ghnáthchaiteachas na Comhairle Contae i gcóir seirbhíse na bliana airgeadais dar críoch 31úNollaig, 2024.

Cuirtear na Leabhair Rátaí i dtaisce lena n-iniúchadh ar aon Íocóir Rátaí in oifigí na Roinne Rátaí, Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin, Áras an Chontae, Ros Comáin agus beidh sé ar fáil lena iniúchadh idir na huaireanta 10.00am agus 1.00pm le linn na gceithre lá dhéag eile tar éis an dáta seo, gan Dé Sathairn agus Dé Domhnaigh san áireamh.

Arna dhátú an 2ú lá seo d’Eanáir, 2024 Sean Mullarkey Ceannasaí Airgeadais, Soláthar, Fiontar, Rialú Foirgníochta agus Seirbhísí Éigeandála

Department of Rural and Community Development Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2024 under the Community Enhancement Programme funding for the Local Enhancement Programme 2024 The Local Enhancement Programme 2024, funded by funded by the Department of Rural and Community

The Development Local Enhancement 2024, fundedgroups by theforDepartment of Rural andfor Community is open forProgramme application from community capital supports essential the many small Development is open for application from community groups for capitalareas supports the many community groups and organisations particularly those who serve disadvantaged in ruralessential and urbanfor areas. small community groupslink and particularly who on serve disadvantaged areas in rural and Please see the following fororganisations further details about the fund those are available the Department’s website. urban areas.

Please the linktoforsupport furthercommunity details about the fundgroups, are available the Department’s website.

Thissee fund is following being provided and voluntary a sum of on €138,641.54 was allocated to County Council, of this amount €23,106.92 has been ring-fenced towards women’s groups. In order to ThisRoscommon fund is being provided to support community and voluntary groups, a sum of €138,641.54 was ensure there is sufficient flexibility to allow funding to be targeted to where it is needed, in each Local Authority area, allocated to Roscommon County Council, of this amount €23,106.92 has been ring-fenced towards it will be administered locally by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs). women’s groups. In order to ensure there is sufficient flexibility to allow funding to be targeted to TheitLocal Enhancement Programme will provide: where is needed, in each Local Authority area, it will be administered locally by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs).

Capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.

will be a particular focus onProgramme small capital works/improvements, TheThere Local Enhancement will provide:and the purchase of equipment for community use. The funding may be used, but is not limited to; improved access for persons with a disability; enhancing

Capital supports essential the many and small community groups and organisations, particularly those community participation forfor disadvantaged marginalised groups, and improving energy efficiency of community whofacilities serve disadvantaged rural andisurban areas. to reduce ongoingareas costs.in The scheme designed to ensure local priorities are identified and met, so as to improve and enhance community facilities for all.

There will be a particular focus on small capital works/improvements, and the purchase of equipment • Capital funding for use towards carrying out necessary repairs and improvements to facilities, energy for community use. The funding may be used, but is not limited to; improved access for persons with efficiency type projects, purchase of equipment such as tables and chairs, tools and signage, laptops and a disability;printers, enhancing community participation for disadvantaged and marginalised groups, and lawnmowers, canopies and training equipment etc. improving energy efficiency of community facilities to reduce ongoing costs. The scheme is designed to Capital funding ring-fenced forand Women’s ensure •local priorities are identified met, Groups so as to improve and enhance community facilities for all.

All applications will be assessed by the LCDC with the applicants being notified of the results in April 2024.

• Capital funding forFull use towards carrying out necessary repairs and improvements to facilities, procurement must be submitted with the online application form. energy efficiency type projects, purchase of equipment such as tables and chairs, tools and signage, laptops and previous printers,funding lawnmowers, canopies training etc.

Please note that will be taken into and account whenequipment assessing applications • Capital funding ring-fenced for Women’s Groups

HOW TO APPLY

All applications will be assessed by the LCDC with the applicants being notified of the results in April 2024.

Applications must be submitted for the LEP through Roscommon County Council “My Online Services” at https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com Full procurement must be submitted with the online application form.

Full details of the scheme are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie The application form will be available online from Monday 8th of January, 2024

Please note that previous funding will be taken into account when assessing applications Late submissions will not be considered

HOW TO APPLY

Closing date for receipt of completed online applications is 1pm on Friday 2nd of February, 2024.

Any queries relating to the application process or eligibility for the scheme can be emailed to: lep@roscommoncoco.ie

Applications must be submitted for the LEP through Roscommon County Council “My Online Services” at https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com Full details of the scheme are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie The application form will be available online from

Monday 8th of January, 2024

Late submissions will not be considered Closing date for receipt of completed online applications is

1pm on Friday 2nd of February, 2024

Any queries relating to the application process or eligibility for the scheme can be emailed to: lep@roscommoncoco.ie Signed: Mark Keaveney, Director of Services

OPENING HOURS IN ÁRAS AN CHONTAE: MOTOR TAX OFFICE 9.30am to 1.00pm only Monday to Friday.

ALL OTHER SERVICES are open 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday.

PHONE SERVICES AVAILABLE from 9.30am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.

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

@RoscommonCountyCouncil @roscommoncoco

www.roscommoncoco.ie

09

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople

Redefining resolutions: The SMART path to self-fulfillment

The history and evolution of New Year’s resolutions

NEW LOCAL HISTORY BOOK

THE ELUSIVE MRS. WALCOTT An 18th century Entrepreneur and the Rookwood Estate

Aughagad Aghagower

Athleague West District Electoral Division (D.E.D.)

ROSCOMMON CIVIL PARISH (37)

FUERTY CIVIL PARISH (36)

Corderryhugh

Creggs Village

KILBEGNET CIVIL PARISH COUNTY GALWAY (43)

(Half-Barony Ballymoe, Galway)

Lisnatea Tobberavaddy

Farranykelly

Cloonyourish

Bellanacarrow

Rocksavage Demense

Knockadangan

Mount Mary

Slievemurry

Mallyree

Attifarry

Coalpits

Gorteenclough or Corramore

Easterfield or Cornacask

Gorteenruckaun

Monsternalea or Abbeygrey

Killeroran D.E.D.

ATHLEAGUE CIVIL PARISH COUNTY GALWAY (16)

ATHLEAGUE CIVIL PARISH COUNTY ROSCOMMON (33)

Araghty

Barony Athlone

Aghrane or Castlekelly

Killeroran Parish

Toberkeagh or Blindwell Carrowreagh

Keenagh (Clanrickard) Corra Beg

Clooncannon

land Athleague Parish

town

Clooneen

Athleague Village

Athleague West District Athleague Electoral Division (D.E.D.)

Coolaspaddaun

Curraghbaghla

Knockaunarainy

Split

Cloonykelly Glebe

Rookwood or Bellagad

Ballaghdacker

Hollygrove

Barony Killyan

TISRARA CIVIL PARISH (30)

Cloonruff

Aghrane or Castlekelly

KILLERORAN CIVIL PARISH (37) Srahaunnagort or Thornfield Garreer

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As we gear up for another year, it’s customary to set New Year’s resolutions, a practice rooted in ancient traditions. Historically, the Babylonians and Romans made promises to their gods at the year’s outset.

Over time, this ritual evolved into a secular endeavour focused on self-improvement. This shift from religious to personal goals sets the stage for our contemporary approach to resolutions and goal-setting as we welcome the New Year.

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The dichotomy of goalsetting: Understanding SMART goals

newsbriefs

The concept of SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals has its origins in management theory but is equally relevant in personal development. As Dr Edwin Locke’s pioneering research on goal setting and motivation suggests, specific and challenging goals lead to higher performance. In real-world applications, whether it’s a professional enhancing their skills or an individual striving to improve their health, SMART goals have shown their effectiveness. Studies, like those conducted by psychologist Dr Gail Matthews, demonstrate that people who write down their goals are significantly more likely (42%) to achieve them than those who don’t.

Contrasting with ‘dumb’ goals On the flip side, vague or unrealis-

Christmas Giving Tree event in Castlerea

tic goals can lead to demotivation.

As Dr Roy Baumeister’s work on self-regulation and willpower indicates, unattainable goals can deplete one’s sense of self-efficacy.

This can lead to what psychologist Dr Carol Dweck describes as a fixed mindset, where individuals see their abilities as static, which hinders growth and leads to avoidance of challenges.

The debate: pros and cons The world of goal setting is not without debate. Some experts, like creativity researcher Dr Teresa

Amabile, argue that too much focus on specific goals can impede creativity and adaptability. Conversely, proponents of structured goals cite research like Dr Peter Gollwitzer’s studies on implementation intentions, which show that clear, actionable plans increase the likelihood of achieving goals.

This highlights that goal-setting is a nuanced process, varying greatly among individuals.

Conclusion: A rallying call for balanced goal-setting In conclusion, as we enter this

New Year, I would urge you to set a SMART goal. Choose something that challenges you but remains achievable. The journey toward this goal should involve growth and a degree of sacrifice. As Dr Angela Duckworth’s research on ‘grit’ suggests, perseverance and passion for long-term goals are the keys to fulfilment. This year, let’s embrace our resolutions with a balanced approach, aligning our aspirations with realistic, welldefined objectives. Here’s to a year of purposeful and achievable goals!

EĞǁ ŝƐ ƚŚĞ LJĞĂƌ͖ EĞǁ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ŚŽƉĞƐ͖ EĞǁ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƌĞƐŽůƵƚŝŽŶƐ͖ ŽŶƐƚĂŶƚ ĂƌĞ ŽƵƌ ďĞƐƚ ǁŝƐŚĞƐ ĂŶĚ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚŽ ŽƵƌ ĐƵƐƚŽŵĞƌƐ͘ ŝŐ dŚĂŶŬ zŽƵ ƚŽ ůů ŽƵƌ ƵƐƚŽŵĞƌƐ͕ ^ƵƉƉůŝĞƌƐ ĂŶĚ ^ƚĂĨĨ ĨŽƌ zŽƵƌ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ Θ ƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ ĚƵƌŝŶŐ ϮϬϮϯ

Happy Feet Childcare After School Club are holding their Christmas Giving Tree event on Sunday, January 14th, in St Patrick’s Church, Castlerea, from 9 am to 1 pm.

People are being asked to bring along any unwanted Christmas gifts – chocolates, sweets, toys, etc – for donations, which will be made to St Vincent de Paul and Castlerea Family Resource Centre.

For more details, please contact Ashling on 085 8680678. Donations may also be dropped directly at the afternoon club, located at Tarmon NS.

Christmas Bazaar in Clooneycolgan Clooneycolgan Community Centre Committee would like to sincerely thank Country Kicks Childcare, John F Hanley, Forde Construction, Derek Harrington, Michael Lambert, Donamon Tarmacadam, and Karl Conneally, who sponsored the Annual Christmas Bazaar.

The committee also wish to thank those who organised the bazaar and particularly those who supported the event. 103 people played bingo on the night.

We hope you will return to play with us each Monday night!

Special Healing Mass in Curraghboy A Special Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, Athlone, on Thursday, January 11th, commencing at 8 pm.

The celebrant will be Fr Joseph Ukut. Confessions will be available from 7 pm and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Individual Blessings for Healing will take place after Mass. Refreshments will be available afterwards.

All are most welcome to attend.

KƵƌ sĞƌLJ ĞƐƚ ǁŝƐŚĞƐ ĨŽƌ ϮϬϮϰ

From all at Hannons Hotel #The Heart of Hospitality Roscommon

Festival-goers pictured at the recent Roscommon Christmas Festival in Roscommon Town.

Pic: Kieran Croghan

10

Some snippets of recent fun in Runnamoat National School

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

After action packed 2023 Runnamoat NS looks forward to New Year Now taking enrolments for September 2024 A huge congratulations and well done to the children in Runnamoat National School who performed amazingly in their recent production of ‘Santa’s on Strike’. Their hard work, commitment and dedication over the past number of weeks in preparing for the show was exemplary and they must be commended on what was an absolutely brilliantly entertaining performance enjoyed by all.

The audience on the night were treated to a fantastic array of dancing, singing, poetry and acting. Sincere thanks to all local businesses who sponsored the fabulous spot prizes for the raffle and who were all acknowledged on the night. Huge thanks also to all members of the packed audience on the night who came to support the school.

Lots of fun!

It has been a very busy and fun few weeks in Runnamoat National School. Two days after their own performance, all children and staff travelled to The Helix, Dublin, and were treated to an absolutely spectacular performance of Treasure Island the Pantomime.

All were amazed on the day by how wonderful the show was. It included everything from Barbie to pirates, dancing gorillas to the Cranberries’ ‘Zombie’ rugby anthem and ballet dancing to hip hop, along with a performance of a ‘Long John’s Back…Alright!’ version of the Backstreet Boys song ‘Backstreet’s Back’ to name but a few. Both teachers and children were on their feet at the end of the performance dancing and singing along.

The trip to Supermac’s was a big hit on the way home with some ice creams, which were ordered for dessert, that were almost as tall as the children themselves!

The staff in Runnamoat National School are delighted to be able to bring children on enjoyable days out such as these and we look

Early start to suit busy families!

forward to many more fun days out in the year ahead.

All pupils and teachers enjoyed a fabulous trip recently to Roscommon Library where we attended a reading workshop all about the Vikings. Not only did the children learn lots about The Vikings as part of the SESE curriculum, they also got to listen to stories, dress up and examine various artefacts. Thanks to Roscommon County County Council and Roscommon Library for inviting Runnamoat School to this fabulous event.

Busy school year It has been an action-packed school year to date. Huge congratulations to everybody in Runnamoat on being awarded our Active Flag in November. Everyone is looking forward to a day of celebration and an official flag raising ceremony in this New Year.

Huge congratulations also to the school on receiving its first ever pollinator endeavour award from Roscommon County Council, awarded for the overall appearance of the beautiful school grounds and play areas and promotion of biodiversity in the school.

A small number of schools were selected to attend a prize-giving ceremony in Roscommon Arts Centre on Tuesday, 12th of December and on the day, Runnamoat NS were awarded a beautiful certificate, plaque and prize money of €150 for the school. Many thanks to Roscommon County Council and all involved in this project.

In September and November, we enjoyed two brilliant days out in the Dome at The Connacht Centre of Excellence in Bekan where we participated in a wonderful variety of GAA activities, even some orienteering and yoga too.

Many thanks to all involved in the GAA for making these wonderful days out possible.

Having been runners-up in the County final in last year’s football competition for small schools and small school football county champions in 2022, the children are really excited

about the upcoming Cumann na mBunscoil competition and all the various sporting events the school takes part in annually as the school has strong links with Roscommon Sports Partnership and the local GAA. The pupils in Runnamoat NS love participating in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) activities on a regular basis.

They are learning to code, using microbits and bee bots. Many thanks to local engineer Brian Shaughnessy for visiting the school and getting the microbit coding lessons up and running.

The children recently enjoyed an amazing and hands-on ‘design solutions’ workshop facilitated by Declan from Stembricks, where the children built their own racing cars from lego and measured how far they travelled.

There were lots of scientific and mathematical skills put to the test such as planning, creating, testing, improving and communicating.

The school also enjoyed an absolutely fantastic day out at the Science Fair hosted by Roscommon Convent of Mercy. Activities on the day included making clay pots in the art room, making and baking buns in the home economics room and carrying out an absolutely brilliant variety of science experiments in the science lab! A very big thank you to all in Roscommon Convent of Mercy for teaching the children so many new scientific skills and for a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Staff and children at Runnamoat School love welcoming guest speakers to share their experience with the children and promote many extracurricular skills. There was a fantastic visit from Arnold Donnelly from Inland Fisheries as part of SESE (Social Environmental Scientific Education). Arnold taught the children all about species that inhabit our local rivers and lakes and even brought in live crayfish and caddis from the river for everybody to examine up close! It was an amazing experience. A huge thank you again to Arnold.

10 minutes from Roscommon Town

Richeal’s visit Local athlete Richeal Timothy also visited

FREE After School Club next year!

Runnamoat National School as part of the Dare to Believe Olympian Project for schools. She spoke to the children all about her incredible journey in becoming the amazing athlete that she is and about her preparations for Paris next year. The children even got to hold her medals and look at all her cycling gear.

She is such an inspiration to us all and the school wishes to thank her again sincerely for taking time out of her extremely busy schedule to visit Runnamoat NS. One of the many inspiring quotes of the day was ‘Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t, small steps turn into miles’.

Aistear As Aistear (play-based learning programme) in the junior room is an important feature of learning in the junior room in Runnamoat, we recently enjoyed a whole school ‘Italian Day’ as part of our theme ‘The Italian Restaurant’ where we got to sample all sorts of Italian food and drink. We even had our own pizza party.

Many thanks to the guest speakers who come to speak to the children regularly and teach them all about what their profession involves.

Into a New Year As all the learning, fun and many extra-curricular activities continue in Runnamoat, we look forward to a happy and healthy New Year ahead for everybody.

The school is like one big family with a warm, welcoming, friendly and fun atmosphere.

Smaller class sizes mean every opportunity is given to pupils and due to our smaller numbers and class sizes, each pupil benefits from a substantial amount of one to one teaching time.

The school is currently taking enrolments for next September. We look forward to welcoming you.

For all enquiries email naomhceitheach@gmail.com/tel 090 6662686 Check out our facebook page and school website: Runnamoat N.S. and runnamoatns.com

11

12

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Let a collective New Year’s resolution be… to take more care on our roads Frank spent some of the festive season assessing our driving habits; Muses (again) on the scourge of gangland-related crime; And our columnist celebrates the rise and rise of darts sensation, 16-year-old Luke Littler…

It’s Monday, the 1st of January as I write, and as I look forward to 2024 I find myself reflecting on a Christmas that for a number of reasons has been very different to our usual ones.

As someone who would normally socialise quite a bit around the festive season, I gave Christmas Eve, St Stephen’s Night, and New Year’s Eve a miss – and feel all the better for that. But one thing I did do a good deal of over the period was drive, and it’s amazing what you can observe when you are almost constantly on the road.

In a year where we have seen quite an upsurge in accidents and fatalities, I was pleasantly surprised to see how many drivers actually obey the speed limits, and even though the recent one-day crackdown on speeding caught a number of errant drivers, I have to say I saw very little evidence of

any reckless disregard of the speed limits myself.

On December 21st, National Slow Down Day, over 400 drivers were caught speeding, with some of them seeming to think they were Formula 1 race drivers, but overall I didn’t observe any of that stupid behaviour on my travels.

However, as the speed limit review comes down the line, I would have to say that in a lot of places, the present limits are ridiculous – some of them are way too high and others way too low – but hopefully the new review body will rectify any obvious mistakes.

My regular Christmas journeys were up and down to Galway, and

as anyone who lives in Ireland will know, the Christmas weather was pretty dire, with loads of wind and rain and very dark days – and at times driving conditions were pretty terrible.

However, on one of those horrible evenings, as I drove out by Corinthians Rugby Club grounds on the Tuam Road, I came across a cyclist who was all dressed in black, with black hoodie and pants, no sign of hi viz jacket or any type of light. If ever someone was at risk of being hit this fellow was, as it was almost impossible to see him.

I don’t give out any awards at the end of the year, but if I did, I would give that cyclist my award

Our society must stand up to vicious criminal gangs A few years ago, our daughter Lisa used to live in the Blanchardstown area of Dublin, and occasionally we would visit her and invariably end up in some of the almost 200 shops that make up Blanchardstown shopping centre.

At the time Lisa would tell us of various criminal acts that used to take place in the area, but thankfully we never saw any sign of even a minor disturbance.

Now I am the first to admit that we are not the greatest people for eating out, but there are certain events that we have always celebrated by going out for a nice meal, and the truth is that going out for a meal with family or friends

is something that everyone would look forward to.

And so on Christmas Eve, as families went to Browne’s Steakhouse in Blanchardstown, with children and grandparents in tow, the excitement would understandably be at an intense level and the spirit of Christmas in much evidence. Or at least it would have been, that is until Dublin gangland showed its brutal face and Tristan Sherry burst in, armed with an automatic weapon, and opened fire, allegedly intent on killing a father and son who were dining there at the time.

After shooting and critically wounding the father in front

of terrified children and parents, the gunman himself was set upon and stabbed to death by associates of the targeted pair – it is understood that he received more than 30 stab wounds. While all this was going on, families were fleeing in terror from the very popular eating house.

Now I don’t know that awful much about the drugs feud that is reported to be at the centre of all of this, but one would have to ask if Minister for Justice Helen McEntee still believes that Dublin is a safe place to live.

Of course it is impossible to put a stop to every crime, and as I have said before, the scum involved have no

respect for life or law, but at the same time something has to be done to put an end to the drug gangs and their lawlessness. I cannot even begin to imagine the impact those horrific events will have on all those (young and old) who happened to see them, but for innocent people who were out for a festive meal, it is likely that Christmas Eve will never be the same again.

The murder of Veronica Guerin all those years ago set a train of action in motion that turned the lucrative criminal world upside down.

It’s time something similar occurred again to show the criminal gangs that their number is up.

for being the most stupid road user of the year.

Pedestrians too came under my watchful eye, and while most of them had proper vests and lights, there were a few who took to the roads in the darkest possible clothes.

However, overall, the vast majority of road users – pedestrians, cyclists and motorists – mostly seemed to be aware of their responsibilities. After the worst year in a decade for road fatalities, maybe we should all make New Year resolutions to slow down, take more care on the roads, and make 2024 safer for everyone who uses them.

Darts ‘wonderkid’ captures imagination Not since the great days (and nights) of the Crafty Cockney, Eric Bristow, and the legendary pint-swilling scot Jocky Wilson nearly 40 years ago, have I had any interest in darts – not even the extraordinary exploits of Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor could re-light the fire for the sport in me.

Taylor totally dominated the darts world for more than 20 years, winning an amazing 16 world titles, but despite him being a wonderful player and a thoroughly nice guy, I was never inspired to make a reappearance on the oche.

That was until this week, when the oldest looking 16-year-old I have ever seen, Luke Littler, made the whole world sit up and take notice.

As the youngest player to ever win a proper match in the senior PDF world championships, he has now (sensationally) reached the final of the tournament (indeed, by the time you read this, he may well be the new world champion; either that, or runner-up). Already he has won £100,000 and stands to win half a million if he wins the title outright, but regardless of what happens in Wednesday night’s final, he will be a multimillionaire and a superstar of the sport.

Icons like Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods and Muhammad Ali all have, or had, the X factor that made them stand out from the rest, and young Littler has it as well. He also seems to be a thoroughly grounded young lad, and hopefully fame and great wealth won’t change him too much – although needless to say it will have to be a lifechanging experience for him.

Last night I dug out the darts board after a long hiatus, and in three darts I hit the magic 180 – I got a 1, an 8 and a 0 (missed the board entirely), so I proudly announced ‘one hundred and eighty’ to my disbelieving audience, which happened to be our Jack Russell, Hope.

Anyway, the good news for Mikeen’s darts team is I am back, and he has a lot to thank Luke Littler for.

And finally…

I usually ignore New Year resolutions, but after twice successfully managing to stop during Covid, I have decided that in 2024 I am going to stop biting my nails!

13

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople

Community mourns John McDermott

The former Roscommon footballer became widely known as a tireless health campaigner

< PAUL HEALY

John McDermott, whose sudden death occurred over the Christmas period, was a highly respected member of the local community who was a Roscommon inter-county footballer in his youth before coming to prominence in latter decades as a tireless and formidable health campaigner.

The late Mr McDermott, of Bohergarve, Roscommon Town, died peacefully at his home on Wednesday, December 28th.

His football prowess saw him enjoy many years of success at club and county level. He was goalkeeper with Roscommon Gaels for many years (he also had stints at full-back), winning a number of county titles, the first of which came in 1972.

He was also a Roscommon senior footballer, and was goalkeeper on the team that defeated Cork in the 1979 National League Final at Croke Park.

Indeed he saved a penalty in the semi-final (v Offaly).

John’s community activism saw him become an active member of the HAC (Hospital Action Committee), set up in 1976 to campaign for the retention (and development) of services at Roscommon County Hospital.

He went out to become chairperson of the HAC, serving in that role for more than a decade. He was the group’s ‘go

A familiar scene: John McDermott, in his role as HAC chairperson, addressing fellow protestors at a rally against the withdrawal of services from Roscommon Hospital. Photo circa 2016 (Andrew Fox).

to’ spokesperson at the time of the closure of Roscommon A&E Department in 2011, and throughout the intensive period of protesting and campaigning

which followed that monumental blow to the local health services.

Earlier in 2011, Mr McDermott had run for election for the first

time, polling 3,770 first preference votes for the HAC (Independent) in the General Election (Roscommon/Leitrim South constituency). Of course that in-

augural election outing preceded the dramatic closure of the A&E and the series of protests that followed, including a sit-down protest in the hospital, a march

‘He was never afraid to take on the government’

Roscommon Hospital Action Committee this week paid tribute to their long-standing colleague.

The HAC said: “John McDermott was a long-standing member of the HAC who sadly passed away suddenly last week. John served as HAC chairperson for over ten years.

“The Roscommon Hospital Action Committee was founded in 1976

when services to Roscommon Hospital were threatened. The campaign continued since then to prevent the closure of the hospital but to also maintain and develop services at the hospital.

“Although some services were lost following government decisions, John and the HAC maintained a campaign that has led to Roscom-

mon University Hospital being a central cog in the health system in the West of Ireland”.

Sitting HAC councillor Valerie Byrne said “John was an ardent campaigner for reform in the health system and was never afraid to take on the government or question their policies.

“He canvassed with the HAC dur-

ing many elections and ran as an independent HAC candidate himself in the 2011 General Election in the Roscommon-South Leitrim constituency, and again in a constituency byelection in 2014”.

The HAC concluded: “Our sympathies are with his wife Mary and his children Ken, Andrea, Niamh and Alex”.

to Leinster House, and mass rallies in Roscommon town.

In 2014, he ran for election again, this time in the Roscommon-South Leitrim bye-election. On that occasion, he secured 2,944 first preference votes. One always sensed that he was perhaps a reluctant candidate, being more of a ‘committee man’, and a very effective one at that. Certainly his commitment to passionately fighting ‘Roscommon’s corner’ on the health front was hugely admirable and will always be remembered.

Of many warm tributes posted on social media, the following – from John’s former county and Roscommon Gaels’ colleague Tom Donnellan – will have spoken for many: ‘Sorry to hear of John’s untimely passing.

Besides his sporting prowess he dedicated his life to his family and the community. A sad loss for all who knew him’.

The late John McDermott is mourned by his wife Mary, children Ken, Andrea, Niamh and Alex, his brother Peter, extended family members and many friends.

After reposing at Smyth’s Funeral Home, Roscommon (F42 NH27) on Sunday, December 31st, removal followed to the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. Mass of the Resurrection took place on Monday, January 1st, with burial following in St Coman’s Cemetery. May he rest in peace.

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople

Roscommon County Council honours

Artist Avril Egan receiving her award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan for winning the International Leonardo da Vinci Arts Award. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Ronan Morris and Fred Jaegar, Connacht Clay Pigeon Shooting Interprovincial Team Champions, pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon All-Ireland ‘B’ Minor Camogie champions pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon Convent of Mercy Ladies’ Golf Team Anna Higgins and Leah Lennon pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan after winning the All-Ireland Schools Championship earlier this year. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon Convent of Mercy, the All-Ireland Junior ‘C’ Camogie winners, pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

All-Ireland U-16 ‘C’ Camogie champions pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

The Roscommon Convent of Mercy All-Ireland Post-Primary Schools ‘B’ Football champions pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

St. Joseph’s U-15 soccer team who are the SFAI All-Ireland winners pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Independent Cllr. Nigel Dineen and his family pictured with the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan at the recent Civic Reception in Roscommon Arts Centre.

Children of Cllr. Dineen’s were honoured as members of the successful St. John’s Knockcroghery and Rahara U-11 Mixed Chess Community Games winning team.

Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Handballers Paul Kelly and Greg Walsh together with marksmen Fred Jaeger and Colm Morris pictured with management and elected representatives from the Athlone Municipal District at the Civic Reception in Roscommon Arts Centre recently.

Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople

local achievers with Civic Reception

Gemma Casey, St. Dominic’s GAA Club, Solo Singing All-Ireland winner, pictured after receiving her award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Joshua McCormack and Evan McNeill, who were honoured for winning the National Student Enterprise Programme (SEP) Award, pictured with the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin.

Daire Feeley, Rás Tailteann National Cycling winner 2022, receiving his award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Elphin Community College National Junk Kouture winners 2023 and world finalists, 2024: Vanessa Kielty, Martha Nugent and Mary McNulty pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

St. Dominic’s Novelty Act team members Jane Casey, Euan Hanley, Joe McDermott, Amy Murray, Amy Reynolds, Ben O’Connor, Chloe O’Connor and Hannah O’Connor receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Emily Donnelly receiving her award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan for winning the International U-10 Intermediate Irish Dancing Championships.

Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Rory Carthy, US Junior National Handball Champion, receiving his award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Carragh Kennedy, the All-Ireland 60x30 Ladies’ Minor Handball Champion, receiving her award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Eva Rose Beattie receiving her award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan for winning the International Premiership U-11 Primary Irish Dancing Championships. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Paul Kelly and Glen Walsh, All-Ireland Masters ‘B’ Doubles Handball Champions, pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Knockcroghery, St. John’s, Rahara All-Ireland Community Games U-11 Mixed Chess champions Clodagh Fergus, Keshav Rohila, Charlie and Anna Casey and Joachim and Jonah Dineen pictured receiving their award from the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. John Keogh and Chief Executive, Shane Tiernan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

NewsPeople

Understanding Ireland’s unique voting system: a simple guide With 2024 set to be ‘the year of the elections’, here’s EMMETT CORCORAN’S timely guide to that sometimes confusing world of quotas, surpluses and multiples counts…

Introduction: Unravelling the complexity of Ireland’s STV system Continuing the Roscommon People’s election specials, this week we delve into Ireland’s distinctive and equitable voting method: the Single Transferable Vote (STV) in Proportional Representation (PR) elections.

Though it appears intricate, this system is grounded in logical and democratic principles. Let’s clarify this process, complete with easy-to-follow examples.

How voting works: Ranking, not just selecting In Ireland’s elections, voters are asked to rank candidates according to their preference, much like listing movies from most to least favourite. This ranking system extends beyond a simple choice, allowing for a more nuanced expression of voter preference.

Reaching the quota: Calculating the electoral goal To be elected, candidates must achieve a specific vote count, known as the ‘quota’. This number is crucial for election success

and is calculated based on the total number of valid votes and the number of seats to be filled. The formula used is (Total Votes/ (Seats + 1)) + 1. This ensures a fair representation of voter preferences across available seats.

Dealing with extra votes: The art of surplus distribution When candidates receive more votes than the quota, these ‘surplus votes’ are redistributed to other candidates based on the voters’ secondary preferences.

This method ensures that every vote cast contributes to the election outcome, akin to sharing surplus food with friends.

Eliminating candidates: Recycling votes If initial counts don’t meet the quota, the least popular candidate is eliminated, and their votes are reallocated according to the voters’ next choices. This process is reminiscent of a talent show where support shifts to the next favourite performer when the preferred one is out.

Redistributing surplus votes – the Irish way Ireland employs a specific ap-

Elected members and senior management pictured at the most recent annual general meeting of Roscommon County Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

proach to redistributing surplus votes. Each vote that helped a candidate surpass the quota is reassessed and redistributed at a proportionally reduced value.

This is like dividing a cake where each person gets a slice, but the size varies based on the

total number to be served.

Why this matters: Reflecting diverse choices This system ensures that a wide range of preferences is considered in the election results, not just the most popular candidates.

It aims to create a representative body that truly echoes the electorate’s diverse choices.

Conclusion: Celebrating fairness in voting Ireland’s voting system, with its emphasis on fairness and choice,

might seem complex, but at its heart, it’s about ensuring every vote counts. By allowing for ranked choices and careful vote redistribution, it seeks to represent the collective will of the people in a truly democratic fashion.

Roscommon-born Sr Margaret Hosty receives Human Rights Award in Brazil

County Roscommon-born Sr Margaret Hosty (second from left) pictured receiving a Human Rights Award from the Legislative Assembly of the State of Goiás in Brazil, where she has lived and worked since 1985 as a missionary of the Saint Louis Sisters.

On World Human Rights Day (December 10th), Sr Margaret Hosty, originally from the village of Cloonfad in County Roscommon, was presented with a Human Rights Award from the Brazilian State of Goiás, where she has lived and worked as a missionary of the Sisters of Saint Louis since 1985.

The award, presented in front of the State’s Legislative Assembly, was presented to her in recognition of her decades of dedication to human rights work on behalf of those living with HIV and AIDS in the city of Goiania (in the Midwestern region of Brazil). The Sisters of Saint Louis is a member organisation of Misean Cara, which provides funding and practical support to Irish missionary groups overseas.

Sr Margaret’s involvement in HIV/AIDS work began in 1993, while serving as a pastoral worker in a parish without a resident priest on the outskirts of Goiania, when a colleague and friend died from AIDS complications after a short illness.

“I myself knew almost nothing about AIDS at the time”, she explained. “And from seeing the discrimination my friend suffered, I realised that so many others were also ill-informed, leading to fear and stigma for those with HIV/AIDS. “I felt I needed to do something about this, and

that was how I got into working with and for people living with HIV and AIDS and founded the AAVE Group”.

Founded in 1995, the AAVE Group (in English: AIDS, Assistance, Life, Hope; in Portuguese: AIDS, Apoio, Vida, Esperança) provides support to people with HIV/AIDS and their families, including psychological support and counselling, home and hospital care visits, advice on rights and entitlements, and skills training to help people who have lost their incomes due to HIV/AIDS to become financially self-sufficient and provide for themselves and their families.

The AAVE Group is funded entirely by donations and grant funding, including support from Misean Cara, via the Irish Aid Programme.

Concerning the ongoing need for the services and human rights support of organisations like the AAVE Group, in Brazil and beyond, Sr Margaret commented, “While there is now effective treatment for AIDS, and people are no longer dying from it, there is still a lack of information which contributes to prejudice. Infections continue, but worse than the virus, is the judgment and condemnation that exclude and force those living with HIV to hide”.

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

FarmingPeople

The Senior Female Champion ‘Coneyisland Uptown Girl’, bred by Niall & Brendan Regan (Gorthaganny) sold for €10,200 at the recent Irish Angus Elite Sale at Carrick-on-Shannon. Pictured are members of the Regan family, Soran Riis Vester (Judge), Anthony Flaherty of Connolly Redmills, and IACS President Sean Kilkenny.

The Reserve Senior Male Champion ‘Lisnanean Victorious’, bred by Benny Mulrennan (Lisnaneane, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon), sold for €4,800 at the recent Irish Angus Elite Sale in Carrick-on-Shannon. Pictured are James, Oisin, Crioa, and Blathin Mulrennan.

At the recent Irish Angus Elite Sale held in Carrick-on-Shannon, the Class 2 second place lot 18, bred by Gerard Regan (Driney, Loughglynn, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon), sold for €5,100. Pictured is Gerard, Patrick Jnr, and Patrick Regan.

The Class 6 winner ‘Carrowboy Vinny’, bred by Alan Gibbons (Caggle, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon), sold for €4,400 at the recent Irish Angus Elite Sale in Carrick-on-Shannon. Pictured is Frank Gibbons with ‘Carrowboy Vinny’.

Loughglass Venus, bred by Noel and Lisa Dowd (Skehard, Creggs, Co. Galway), sold for €9,400 at the recent Irish Angus Elite Sale in Carrick-on-Shannon. Pictured are Derek Maxwell, Lisa and Noel Dowd, and IACS President Sean Kilkenny.

Pictured at the Irish Angus Elite Sale in Carrick-on-Shannon, is the Class 9 winner ‘Carrowboy Violet’, bred by Alan Gibbons (Caggle, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon). In photo are Frank Gibbons and Jack Johnston.

Reserve Junior Female Champion Woodbrook Victoria, bred by John Boyd Jnr (Woodbrook, Carrick-on Shannon, Co. Roscommon), pictured at the recent Irish Angus Elite Sale in Carrick-on-Shannon (with members of the Boyd family).

Public advised to ‘get out and reconnect with nature’ in New Year Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

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

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

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Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Daily collection

Survey highlights Lough Key Forest Park, Mote Park and Sliabh Bawn

According to a recent Red C Research survey commissioned by Coillte (the semi-state forestry company), Roscommon’s top Coillte Forests for recreation include Lough Key Forest Park, Mote Park and Sliabh Bawn.

In addition to revealing Roscommon’s top forests for recreation, the survey also revealed that a total of 81% of the Irish public believe Ireland needs to grow more trees to help combat climate change, and furthermore, 86% of those surveyed agree that getting out into nature and exploring their local forest has a positive impact on their physical and mental wellbeing, while 82% believe forests are important for nature and biodiversity,

which is central to Coillte’s strategic vision.

Of all respondents, 74% agree that having a mix of trees, such as conifers which grow quickly and capture carbon at a high rate, along with broadleaves that provide a long-term store of carbon, is important for climate action. In terms of tackling climate change, the majority surveyed (66%) are in favour of using Irish wood as an alternative building material to highcarbon materials such as concrete and steel.

Speaking about the survey, Paul Jordan (Regional Manager, Coillte) said, “At Coillte, we recognise the importance of nature and forests in supporting our overall wellbeing and it’s encouraging to see that the majority of the Irish public agrees, as revealed in our recent survey.

Roscommon has a range of beautiful Coillte forests for people to enjoy, including Lough Key Forest

Park, Mote Park and Sliabh Bawn, and we are reminding people to take some time where possible… to get out and reconnect with nature”.

The survey findings support Coillte’s forestry strategic vision which aims to deliver multiple benefits from its forests and bring more focus to climate action, with ambitious targets on biodiversity and recreation, while continuing to deliver for the forest and wood products industry. The focus of Coillte’s vision is on sustainably balancing and delivering the multiple benefits from Ireland’s state forests across four strategic pillars: climate, wood, nature, and people.

Coillte’s forestry strategic vision, announced last year, is designed to optimise its contribution to Ireland’s climate targets, and includes a range of actions aiming at capturing approx. 28m tonnes of CO2 from the environment by 2050.

As part of these actions, Coillte aims to enable the creation of 100,000 hectares of new forests by 2050 (half of which will be native woodlands, thereby enabling the sinking of 18 metric tonnes of CO2). Coillte will also manage its existing forest estate to capture an additional 10 metric tonnes of CO2 by 2050.

Coillte plans to produce 25 million cubed metres of certified Irish timber to support the construction of 300,000 new homes in Ireland by 2030 and will also promote the use and benefits of wood products to increase the level of timber homes from 20% to 80% by 2050.

Additionally, Coillte intends to enhance and restore biodiversity by increasing the area of the forest estate being managed primarily for nature from 20% to 30% by 2025 and to 50% in the long-term.

For further information, visit coillte.ie.

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

PropertyPeople

Cormac 086 3519492

PSRA Licence No. 004420

NEW TO THE MARKET 5 B/R DETACHED RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

14 SLIABH BAN VIEW, THE WALK, ROSCOMMON F42 FW99

AMV: €400,000

NEW TO THE MARKET 3 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

20 CONVENT COURT, ROSCOMMON TOWN F42XE89

AMV: €240,000

Cathal 086 1409158

Keith 086 0848590

NEW TO THE MARKET 5 B/R DORMER STYLE BUNGALOW LOCATED AT

CRUBY HILL, GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON F42 Y959

AMV: €340,000

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

Remax Team Earley close sale on 60 acres of prime agricutural lands This week, Cathal Meares of Remax Team Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of 60 acres (approx.) of roadside lands located at Lisgreaghan, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon, comprised in folios RN30082 and RN27858.

These are top quality agricultural lands set amidst the scenic beauty of Lisgreghan, Carrick-on-Shannon, Roscommon. The said land spans an impressive 59 acres (approx.) and is thoughtfully organised into well maintained paddocks, each equipped with electric fencing and a water supply.

Nestled within the idyllic Lisgreghan area, this parcel of land boasts a strategic position with easy access to Carrick-onShannon and its essential amenities. The surrounding beauty of the countryside adds to the allure of this remarkable property.

This was a rare chance to acquire a substantial tract of top quality lands in one complete package!

Remax Team Earley are currently looking for similar-type farms of land for disappointed underbidders who are cash clients or mortgage-approved.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact one of the auctioneers directly by phoning Cormac on 086 3519492, Cathal on 086 1409158 or Keith on 086 0848590.

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Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Classifieds

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

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

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ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

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

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PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal.

Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance.

Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

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l Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV

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087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie 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 nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper.

Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

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GARDENING

Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc.

Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on

087 2860428

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

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

GRINDS/TUITION < MATHS GRINDS: All Levels. Experienced Tutor. 1-to-1 and small groups possible.

Call/Text/Whatsapp Coman: 085 706 3536 < QUALIFIED PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER available for home tuition. Five years teaching and tuition experience teaching all classes levels at different stages. Also have experience tutoring Leaving Cert students with Irish Oral preparation. Please contact 0872796972 for more information.

Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

21

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Classifieds

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

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION Name of Applicant: Hubert Maxwell Ref. Number of the Application: PD/23/187 Development at: Drummin, Peak, Tullaghan and Gortnagoyne Townlands, Bellanagare, Co. Roscommon The development applied for consisted of: The extraction and processing of limestone aggregate (quarry extraction area of 1.7 Ha.), to a depth of 83 mOD, for a 7 year period and all ancillary activities.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Tara Quigley and Ewan Coltherd, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for construction of part two storey and part single storey dwelling, domestic garage, waste water effluent treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Curry (E.D Elia), Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Sean and Bernadette Mulry intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for alterations to existing dwelling house at Carrownabrickna, Roscommon.

The alterations consist of A. Erection of extensions to front and rear of the existing house B. Removal of existing bay window to front facade C. Removal and replacement of windows to front and side elevations D. All ancillary development works.

Significant Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development and is available for inspection or purchase 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 Further Information may be made in writing to the planning authority not later than two weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority.

A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, John and Marie Noone, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for the following: 1. Planning permission to demolish first floor extension to rear of existing dwelling including boiler house, stairs to first floor balcony to side of dwelling, ground floor bedroom and utility room.

2. Demolish and remove bay window to front of existing dwelling.

3. Totally refurbish existing dwelling, associated site development works and services at Rathlena, Garranlahan, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974. Mobile: 086 8115449

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

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, Emily Naughton intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage/fuel store, proprietary treatment system, percolation area and associated works at Creemully and Aghagad Beg, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon.

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

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

Signed:

Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway 090 6624681 / 087 635 8949 / stephen@sbarchitect.ie

The

Business Directory

.ie

Signed: Sean ad Bernadette Mulry.

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.

!

E V I L W O N

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Aidan Kelly, intend to apply for Outline Permission for the construction of 25 No. 2 storey detached dwelling houses together with all associated site development works and connections to public services.

At; Barry More Td, Kiltoom, 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 in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090)6634421 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Kathleen Patricia McManus intends to apply for Permission to construct a three bay double loose cattle shed and seepage tank on her lands at Newtown, Drum, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Kathleen Patricia McManus.

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.

www.lookitup.ie

22

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

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

Tel: 086 8212732

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

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

USEFUL SERVICES PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387

083 0684011

< FIREWOOD + TURF: High quality seasoned split hardwood timber, suitable for stoves and open-fire.

Turf also available in bulk tonne bags. Call 086 3312411

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn.

We are safety certified and insured.

Phone:

PLUMBING

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 PLANT HIRE & GROUNDWORKS

086 2437376

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

Hydraulic Cylinder Repair and Testing l Hydraulic Hose Repair l Oil/Grease Lubricants l OEM Hydraulic Components and Spares l

PODIATRIST

PHYSICAL THERAPY

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

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

For all foot ailments

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

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: Phone: (089) 4142233

Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults.

Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY

Can we help you?

Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009

• 20 years experience

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com 1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Call Owen for ground work

086 895 3884 Call Padraic for concreting

085 226 4664

Electrician Available

OIL BOILER

Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

From €90

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p086255315 @gmail.com

SERVICE

Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc ....

094 9373445 087 9100477

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

If so ring:

087 9657933

or 090 66 33084

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

GRINDS

Tel:

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

REFLEXOLOGY

REVISION COURSES Junior and Leaving Cert HL For further information

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

Benefits:

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

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

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

Lorraine 086 3688302

Submit your Classified online

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

Send your Classified advertisement to

Tel: 087 2264951

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

Gift Vouchers Available

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

Contact by phone/text:

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

Tar & Chip Driveways

Tyres - Car, Van and 4x4 l Wheel Balancing l 4-Wheel Alignment l Batteries l Adblue l Accessories l

094 9620009

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

Kilroe Tiling

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

Phone: 086 - 8944363 or 086 - 0872166

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

Professional Tiler available

USEFUL SERVICES

Ballintober, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45Y320

Reflexology

TILER

USEFUL SERVICES

Corlack Mechanical Maintenance Services Ltd

Sarah Fleming

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

Phone:

Tullys Podiatrist/Chiropodist

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

TOP QUALITY TURF

USEFUL SERVICES

PODIATRIST

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com l Tree Shearing l Tree Felling

l Dangerous Tree Removed

(Commercial & Domestic)

Harpur Bros, Castlecole,

Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

23

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 AtYourServiceEXTRA USEFUL SERVICES

CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION

KEEN RATES

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

Gift Vouchers

Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon

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

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

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

Phone: 083 1628531 Email: richarddooner@yahoo.ie

Carpenter Available Doors l Floors l Stairs l Wall Panelling Glenamaddy/ Roscommon area Over 30 years experience

Phone Tommy

086 8934576

PMC Painting Contractors

VETERINARY DRIVING LESSONS

10%

Discount with this advert.

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

CALL MICHAEL ON

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

ROOFING

For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

089 966 1849

ROSCOMMON Driving School Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

ALL CREATURES

Veterinary Clinic & Shop

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

Roof Repairs

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

For the best care for your animal, large and small.

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB?

Phone:

089 9899912

087 9795226

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

ALSO AVAILABL E

GF Ground Works

l

l

< ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802.

MASSAGE TREATMENTS

Richie Dooner

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

GROUND WORKS

The local paper!

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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

Locally owned and in the of the community

💙

The local paper!

24

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

AtYourService BLINDS

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

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

Chris’s Window Service

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon F42 W294

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Mobile:

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Telephone: 090 66 33026

086 8115928

W: roscommonwindowsanddoors.com E: roscommonwindows@hotmail.com

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CARS

LIFE COACHING

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

l

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

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt:

Tel: 090 9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Daily collection

CARPENTRY & FITTED FURNITURE

INSULATION

Aodhgan Cashin

Ballybride, Roscommon F42 EC59

• Fitted Kitchens • Bedroom Units • Sitting Room Units • Timber Flooring • General Carpentry

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness Bonded Cavity & Wall Insulation NewBead Buildings Retrofit Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, Call in SIGA or contact us for free Airtightness advice and quotes New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free

andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial €1,214 to Estate, Galway

€3,500

091 768 768

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2,info@ecowise.ie Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway H91 P5k5 Block 12, Galway www.ecowise.ie

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

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

The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!

Tel: 086 6082597 E: aodhgan.cashin@gmail.com

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

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

CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding repairs available C2 Registered & Insured. Free Quotations

INSURANCE CLAIMS

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

Martin Mountbellew, Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Mountbellew, Co. Co.Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co. Galway

info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 || 087 info@mhla.ie 091 380900 380900Mountbellew, 087 9818153 9818153 Co. Galway www.mhla.ie

www.mhla.ie

www.mhla.ie 091 380900 |Approved 087 9818153 Certified Dip in Loss Product

info@mhla.ie

Member of the PSAB-GI

Advisor Product Approved Product Member of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Approved Member of Regulated by the Central Adjusting Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Advisor Advisor Regulated www.mhla.ie Regulated by by the the Central Central Institute of Ireland Loss Member Bank Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services Member of of the the Insurance Insurance Bank of of Ireland Ireland Institute of of Ireland Ireland Institute

Certified Dip in Loss Approved Product PROPERTY Advisor Adjusting Loss Assessor Services

Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

Member of the PSAB-GI

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

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

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

to discuss your requirements NO CALL OUT CHARGE

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

For more details check www.carolineburke.ie

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

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

PLUMBING & CONSTRUCTION

McCormack Plumbing & Construction Ltd. Registered Heating & Plumbing Contractor l SEAI Registered Air To Water Heap Pump Installer l €6,500 SEAI Grants available for Heat Pump Upgrades l Registered Gas Installer l New Builds and Renovations

Contact Pat: 086 8115339 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090 6621220

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

086 6002721

The local paper!

David Duffy 087 9662678 Alan Duffy 086 3992382

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

Contact Pat Hanley on

* INTERVIEW MASTERING (including competency-based questions)

l

GARDENING

Cleaning Services • Roscommon Certified Certified Dip DipAdjusting in Loss Loss in • Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’

* CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * APPLICATIONS - PUBLIC/CIVIL and PRIVATE SECTOR COMPETENCY BASED APP FORMS

* EDUCATION & PERSONAL COACHING

Lowest price guaranteed

Tel: 087 0944027

CAREER & LIFE Coaching

CAREER COACHING:

FARMING

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted.

End of life certs can be provided.

Also scrap metal

086 8229606 www.carolineburke.ie

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

TEL: (090) 96 88606 - Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

CAROLINE BURKE

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

WELDING & FABRICATON

25

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES COYLE James (Jimmy)

BEATTY Millicent (Millie) and Michael (Mick)

Clare Street, Ballina Formerly Gailey, Knockcroghery

Main St., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon and Liscarbin, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim.

HENEGHAN John The Walk, Roscommon Town, Roscommon / Tourmakeady, Mayo (1st Anniversary)

(1st Anniversary) Who died on 17th January 2023

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

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

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

Millicent (Millie)

Michael (2nd Anniversary)

Don’t remember me with sadness.

Don’t remember me with tears.

Remember all the laughter we’ve shared throughout the years.

Now I am contented, that my life it was worthwhile, knowing as I passed along the way I made someone smile.

When you are walking down the street and you’ve got me on your mind, I’m walking in your footsteps, only half a step behind.

So please don’t be unhappy, just because I’m out of sight, remember that I’m with you each morning, noon and night.

Loved and remembered by his brother Eugene and extended family.

Anniversary Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday the 6th January 2024 at 7pm.

In loving memory of Millicent who passed away on 2nd July 2022 and her son, Michael, who passed away on 5th January 2022 R.I.P. Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday.

Unseen, unheard but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear.

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

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by their family.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon at 12 noon on Sunday, 7th January.

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

LYNCH Thomas (Tommy) Bredagh, Dysart, Roscommon.

Who passed away on December 24th 2017 (6th Anniversary)

McDERMOTT John Cloonakilla, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary) In loving memory of John who died on 6th January 2018 R.I.P.

Who died 8th January 2022 (2nd Anniversary)

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

PJ will always be remembered by his loving wife Philomena, sons Padraig and Declan and all his extended family.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 7th January 2024 at 11.30am in St Eithne and Fidelma’s Church, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

We are very grateful to Canon Eugene McLoughlin who visited John in his final week and celebrated his Funeral Mass along with the clergy and staff of Roscommon Parish Office. Many thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism and kindness and to Aileen O’Connor and Ellen Costello for their beautiful church music. We are also very grateful to serving and retired members of An Garda Siochana for their help and support throughout this time.

We would also like to thank all the medical and care teams of The Bons Secours & Roscommon University Hospitals, Roscommon Medical Centre, Rosmed Pharmacy and Roscommon Hospice for taking such great care of John during his short illness.

John is greatly missed every day by his family including his wife Peggy, his loving children Helen, Aidan, Ciaran, Deirdre and Claire; sons and daughtersin-law Ger, Mary, Kathryn, Paul and Adrian; his grandchildren Shane, Ronan, Caoimhe, Ciara, Jack, Katie, Eoin, Conor, Dara, Sarah, Ella, Emma, James and Lily-Mae; his siblings Joe, Mary and Noreen along with his nieces and nephews.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation.

CONNOR Pj (Patrick Joseph) Ballyglass, Four Mile House, Co Roscommon

On this John’s first anniversary, we his family would like to take the opportunity to thank our extended family, neighbours and friends who supported and comforted us at the time of his sad passing and to all those who sent messages of condolences, mass cards, flowers and travelled to be with us in person or joined us online. We would also like to thank those who spent time with John during his final months – your visits were very precious and much appreciated.

In loving memory of Tommy Your memories are so precious your presence missed so much.

You will always be remembered.

My thoughts are always with you in a very special way, not just on your anniversary, but every single day.

Dearly loved and missed – your partner Teresa.

John’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in The Sacred Heart Church Roscommon on Sunday 21st January at 11.30am.

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts, is always kept for you.

Always remembered by his sister Martina, brothers-inlaw, nieces, extended family and friends.

A Mass has been offered for your intentions.

HENEGHAN John The Walk, Roscommon Town, Roscommon / Tourmakeady, Mayo (1st Anniversary)

Anniversary Mass in the Church of Saints Eithne and Fidelma, Tulsk on Saturday, 6th January at 11.30am.

FAMILY NOTICES

• ANNIVERSARY REMEMBRANCE • ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS • BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

RYAN Ann (Nee McAndrew) Late of Cloonfaughna, Glinsk, Co. Galway and Belmullet, Co. Mayo who sadly passed away on the 3rd of January 2021 (3rd Anniversary)

HANLEY Teresa Doughill, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon (19th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear mother, who died 7th January 2005 R.I.P.

They say there is a reason, they say that time will heal, but neither time nor reason, will change the way we feel.

For no one knows the heartache, that lies behind our smiles, no one knows how many times, we have broken down and cried.

We want to tell you something, so there won’t be any doubt, you were a wonderful wife, mum and granny, and so hard to live without.

Loved and remembered dearly by her husband Anthony, her children Jason, Lorraine, Caroline, Jackie, Kieran and Robert; sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and all her grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, 7th of January 2024 at 10am.

Many a lovely moment many a silent tear but always treasured memories of a mother we loved so dear.

Always remembered and so sadly missed by her daughter Bridie, Eddie, Emer and James. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

Your name is often mentioned our thoughts are with you still you have never been forgotten and by us you never will.

Always remembered by Henry, Julia, Sean and Molly. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

No matter how life changes no matter what we do a special place within our hearts is always kept for you.

Always remembered by Vincent, Marie, Philip and Alex. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

Always remembered by Luke, Teresa, Kenneth, Kellie, Michelle and Luke. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

A limb has fallen from the family tree Each of us in our own way have special thoughts of you every day We remember the good times, the visits, the calls Your memory is our keep-sake that we treasure above all.

Sadly missed by your brother Joe, and sisters Mary and Noreen and families.

LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Silent memories keep you near as time unfolds another year out of our lives you may have gone but in our hearts you still live on.

Always remembered by Frank.

Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday 7th January 2024 in Curraghroe Church at 10am.

26

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES GAVIN Martin and Catherine 12 Thornfield Drive, Lisnamult, Roscommon

BURKE

Patrick and Kathleen

GERAGHTY (Née Duffy) Peggy (Margaret)

MEE Colm

McKEOGH William (Billy)

Kilmore, Ballygar, Co. Galway/Aghamore, Co. Mayo

Lysflynn, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary on 8th January 2024)

Cloonsellan, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon.

(2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Peggy who died on 7th January 2023 (1st Anniversary)

Also remembering his wife, Una.

Pollalaher, Brideswell

Martin

Catherine

(1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Martin who passed on 10th January, 2023.

Also remembering his wife, Catherine, who passed on 25th of March, 2008 and also their son, Mark Paul R.I.P. Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words, we will never forget.

No longer in our lives to share but in our hearts you are always there.

Missed by his children Martin, Marie, Anne, sons-in-law Paul and Liam and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday, 6th January in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 7.00pm.

NAUGHTON John Late of Shanballymore, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

(1st Anniversary) Treasured memories of John who was called home to Heaven on January 7th 2023.

BRENNAN Tommy Carroward, Fourmilehouse (19th Anniversary) In loving memory of Tommy who passed away on 6th January 2005

will never forget.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered by his wife Rose and all his family.

You always had a smile to share, A laugh, a joke and time to care.

A kindly nature, warm and true, Many lovely memories we have of you.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 6th January 2024 at 11am in St Brigid’s Church, Fourmilehouse.

Forever loved and missed by his wife Carmel, his sons Matt, Seán, Joe, Eugene and David, his daughters-in-law, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and extended family, neighbours and friends.

John’s First Anniversary Mass will be held on Friday 12th January at 8:00pm in St. Brendan’s Church, Tohergar.

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

In loving memory of Patrick who died 31st Dec 1984 aged 66 and his wife Kathleen (Kitty) née Dea who died 22nd July 2004 aged 83 years.

Also remembered: Patrick’s parents John Burke (Curnagee) who died Oct 1924 aged 48 years and Margaret née Mee (Rackins Curraghboy) who died 16th April 1983 aged 89 years.

And Kathleen’s parents John Dea (Derryglad, Curraghboy) who died 1st Sept 1947 aged 75 years and Mary (Mamie) Cunningham (Lysterfield, Curraghboy) who died 19th July 1887 aged 88 years.

May they Rest in Peace.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Saturday 6th January 2024 at 10.00 am.

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 nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

As we lovingly remember Peggy on her first anniversary, her husband Johnny, daughters Christina, Ann, Judy and Kay; son Neal, sons-in-law Kieran, Albert and Eamon; daughters-in law Moira and Michelle, together with the extended family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the sympathy and support shown to us on the sudden death of Peggy.

Sincere thanks to our wonderful neighbours, friends, and the extended family who brought food and refreshments to our home and who helped in every way. Also, to all who attended the Wake, Removal, and Funeral Mass and to all those who travelled long distances, sent Mass cards, Perpetual Enrolments, letters of sympathy, floral tributes, thank you.

A special thanks to Fr. Louis Lohan for the beautiful Funeral Mass and to Fr Michael Breslin for concelebrating the Mass. Thank you to Peggy’s dear friends of Ballygar Church Choir whom she was part of for many years for their beautiful singing and music at her Funeral Mass.

A special thanks to Dr. Martin Daly particularly for the house visits and to the staff of the Ballygar Health Centre. Thank you to David Moran for his kindness and professionalism during those difficult days. Sincere thank you to the gravediggers who prepared Peggy’s final resting place. Thank you to Maria, Kenny’s Pub for the beautiful service they provided after the Funeral and to Aidan Maloney for providing the beautiful meal. Thank you to the staff of Portiunculla Hospital especially the ICU staff and our good friend Síle who took great care of Peggy in her final days. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a sincere token of our appreciation.

Loving memories never die as years roll on and days pass by, in our hearts a memory is kept of the one we love and will never forget.

Loved ones appear when robins are near.

Treasured memories of a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend who died on 23rd December 2021.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Kilteevan on Saturday 6th January at 10 am

Loved and sadly missed by Bernadette, Fionnuala, Ethna and family.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 7th January at 10am in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Peggys First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday the 6th January at 19:30 Your memories are so special Your presence missed so much You will always be remembered and sadly missed.

Johnny and the family

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

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

27

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

SITUATION VACANT

FINNERTY Martin

< CARER REQUIRED for elderly lady in Boyle area.

Please contact 086 398 1892.

Lunerton, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

(1st Anniversary)

Though your smile is gone forver, and your hands we cannot touch, still we have so many memories of you, Martin, who we loved so much.

Your memories are our keepsakes with which we’ll never part.

God has you in His keeping, and we have you in our hearts.

Love and miss you always, your wife Grace, children Fiona, Conor, Gavin, Emma; Fiona’s partner, Ronan and granddaughter Aoife. ~~~~~ A silent memory keeps you near as time unfolds another year.

Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our hearts, you still live on.

Sadly missed by your sister, Margaret, Niamh and Godson Colm. ~~~~~ Time may pass and fade away, but silent thoughts and memories stay.

No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Sadly missed by your sister, Patty, brother-in-law Kevin, Megan and Valerie.

Anniversary Mass will be held at 8.30pm on Saturday 6th January 2024 in St. Cuan’s Church, Ahascragh.

DONNELLAN DONLON Esther (1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Esther of Moher, Ballyleague, Roscommon who died on 11st January 2023. R.I.P.

THOMPSON/ KEARNS In loving memory of

Seamus Thompson

HIGGINS Joe Loreto, St. Patrick Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

(1st Anniversary)

Formerly of Cloontuskert who passed away recently.

---------------------And Frank Kearns Curraghroe, whose Month’s Mind occurs at this time.

Always remembered by family and friends.

Mass in their memory will be celebrated in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Sunday 7th January at 11 am.

FARRELL Marie Clooncagh, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

(4th Anniversary) In loving memory of Marie who died on 6th January 2020.

We think about you always, We talk about you still, You have never been forgotten And you never will.

We hold you close within our hearts and here you shall remain.

To walk and guide us through our lives until we meet again. .

Sadly missed and always remembered by her family, friends and neighbours.

Anniversary Mass for Marie is on Sunday 7th January in Strokestown Parish Church at 11.30 am.

We the family of the late Joe would like to sincerely acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness show to us following his passing.

Sincere thank you to those who called to our home, supplied us with food and helped out in so many ways. A special thanks to our wonderful neighbours for their support and generosity, thank you to those who sent messages, condolences on R.I.P., Mass Cards, sympathy cards, made phone calls and travelled from both far and near to attend the Funeral.

A sincere thank you to all who cared for Joe during his illness, to the staff of the Kelly Henry Medical Centre, special thanks to the staff of Primary Care for you attention to Joe, to Niall and staff of Tully’s Totalhealth Pharmacy, to the Doctors and nurses of Portiuncla University Hospital, Ballinasloe for their dedicated care shown to Joe during his illness.

Sincere gratitude to all of Joe’s carers for the dedicated care shown to him during his illness, Anne, Donal, Sue, Siobhan, Laura, Faye, Gerry. Special thanks to Fr. John McManus P.P. Castlerea for his kindness and attention to Joe during his illness and for his celebration of a lovely Funeral Mass and Homily. Thanks to the Sacristan Michael, to the Choir led by Clare Kelly, and organist Eanna Conroy for the beautiful singing at Joe’s Mass.

To Paul and Susan Gaynor Funeral Directors thank you for your sensitivity and professionalism at this difficult time, and also the gravediggers.

Thank you to Dermot and Bernie Mulvhilll for providing refreshments on the evening of Joe’s removal. To Breege and Ollie and all the staff of Hesters for a lovely meal.

As it is impossible to thank each and every on individually please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our deep gratitude and appreciation, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea on Sunday 7th January at 12 o’clock.

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

Sadly missed by Joe and all her family.

Esther’s Anniversary Mass will take place in The Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Saturday 13th January at 7 pm.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

The local paper!

< DAIRY FARM ASSISTANT REQUIRED, experienced in general farm work, milking cows, herd health, calf rearing and tractor driving. 40 hour week. Minimum annual remuneration 31,000 euro. Tulsk, Co. Roscommon. Email cv to: hilltopdairies@gmail.com

THANKSGIVINGS Novena Prayer to St. Jude Thaddeus O Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need. To you, I have recourse from the depth of my heart, and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and most urgent petition. (Make your petition).

In return, I promise to make your name known and cause your name to be invoked. St. Jude, pray for us and all who invoked thy aid. Amen. Pray this 9 times a day for 9 consecutive days. On the eighth day, your prayers will be answered for this prayer has never known to fail. Please don’t forget St. Jude once your wish is granted. C.S. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it).

Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.C. 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 nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper.

Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

PERSONAL NOTICE LADY IN HER 40s – divorced – would like to meet a gentleman – aged between 46 and 57 years old – for friendship/relationship.

Must be honest, kind and have a good sense of humour. Genuine people only apply please.

Reply to Box no. 3095, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon

APPOINTMENTS

SHANNON LODGE NURSING HOME Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

We require the following staff:

l Day/Night Care Assistant l Housekeeper/Kitchen Assistant l Staff Nurse • Premium for Sundays and Bank Holidays.

• Free meals, tea and coffee.

• Paid lunchbreaks.

• Pension Scheme facilitated.

• Cycle to work scheme available.

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

Start 2024 with a fresh and exciting opportunity!

Holmes Centra Ballygar seeks a

Deli Manager

to run and develop it’s busy Deli and Bakery Department The Ideal candidate will have experience of either the Deli or the catering business, will be capable of managing colleagues, stock and waste and above all the general standards within these critical areas of the shop.

Other opportunities also exist within our Deli and Bakery Sections so if you have an interest in a fresh start for 2024 contact Ollie on 0906624078 or 0876414752 Or email oholmes1974@gmail.com

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? The local paper!

TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

28

Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

Hurlers win a score-fest in Dome Connacht Hurling League Round 1 Roscommon 3-23 Sligo 2-23 Injury-time goals from Mickey Joe Egan and Sean Canning gave Roscommon hurlers their first win of the New Year as they had three points to spare against Sligo in a high-scoring encounter at the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome on Monday night.

It was a well contested match all through with Sligo ahead by two points at half-time (1-14 to 1-12), the Roscommon goal coming from Paddy Fallon. Roscommon will now play Mayo in the semi-final.

Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Mark Ward, James Dillon, Thomas Fleming; Michael Hussey, Jimmy Hoey, Jack Dowling; Mickey Joe Egan, Darragh Finn; Liam Og Murray, Adam Donnelly, Paddy Fallon; Cormac Geraghty, Robbie Fallon, Cormac Mulry. Subs: Fionn Killion, Brendan Quinn, Matthew Comerford, Michael Brennan, Chualinn Dowd, Cathal Crehan, Jason Martin, Liam Og Coyle, James Hardiman, Darragh Mullen, Sean Canning.

GAA fixtures Friday, January 5th Connacht FBD League Quarter-Final At Connacht GAA Air Dome: Roscommon v Sligo.

7 pm Saturday, January 6th AIB All-Ireland Club IFC Semi-Final At Portlaoise: Castlerea St Kevin’s v Cill na Martra.

2.30 pm Sunday, January 7th AIB All-Ireland Club SFC Semi-Final At Semple Stadium: St Brigid’s v Castlehaven.

1.45 pm

Soccer fixtures Friday, January 5th RDFL 1st/2nd play-off Cam Dysart v Glen Celtic. 8 pm RDFL Premier Division Shiven Rovers v Boyle Celtic. 8 pm RDFL Women’s League Kilkerrin v Shiven Rovers. 8 pm Boyle Celtic v Castlerea Celtic. 8 pm Saturday, January 6th RDFL Women’s League Cam Celtic v Ballaghaderreen. 8 pm RDFL Reserve League CP Ajax v Moore Utd. 12 noon Ballinagare Manor v Roscommon Utd. 12 noon Dunmore Town v Shiven Rovers. 12 noon Sunday, January 7th RDFL Premier Division Moore Utd v Castlerea Celtic. 2 pm CP Ajax v St John’s Athletic. 2 pm Ballaghaderreen v Ballinasloe Town. 2 pm RDFL First Division Moylough ‘79 v Skyvalley Rovers. 11 am Ballinagare Manor v Ballymoe. 11 am St John’s Athletic B v Dunmore. 11 am RDFL Second Division St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh v Ballaghaderreen. 2 pm Roscommon Utd v Cloonfad Utd. 11 am Rahara Rovers v Kilkerrin Utd. 11 am RDFL Women’s League Ballinasloe Town v St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh. 2 pm

Senan Lambe, pictured here in action for his club Roscommon Gaels against Boyle during last year’s club championship, is a new face in the Roscommon panel this year and will hope to use the FBD League to make an impact for the team. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Footballers commence 2024 competitive action on Friday FBD Connacht SF League Round 1: Roscommon v Sligo at The Dome, Ballyhaunis on Friday at 7 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

It seems to roll around quicker with every year that passes, but Roscommon senior footballers are back in competitive action for another season this Friday night when they face Sligo in the FBD League in the Dome in Ballyhaunis with the winners facing Mayo or London in the semi-final the following Friday night, 12th of January (at 7 pm).

Roscommon manager Davy Burke says he is very happy with the attitude of all the players

since they returned to training in late November.

Burke says that he is looking forward to returning to competitive action to see how the players react. “I have to say that I have been delighted with the response of the players since we came back to training. The attitude has been top class and the players are determined to drive on this year and I couldn’t be happier at this early stage” he said.

“The players have trained very hard but you can’t beat matches to see how players perform and the players themselves prefer to be playing matches too”.

There are several new faces on the Roscommon panel and some very welcome ‘returnees’ as well.

“Ultan Harney is back and is probably a few weeks away from full fitness – as he has a knock at

the moment – but he is training away. The same is the case for Tadhg O’Rourke, who is working hard too. Cathal Heneghan is back to full fitness and he has been phenomenal since we started training.

He will be a huge boost to us.

“We have a few new faces too such as Senan Lambe, Evan Flynn and James Fitzpatrick and a lot of these lads will get their chance during the Allianz National League and they can claim a place if they do well – but it’s early days yet”.

There has been a shake-up in the backroom team too, and Burke is very positive about that ahead of the new season.

“Lar Wall (who replaced Mark McHugh) has been tremendous.

He is a fantastic coach and his attention to detail has to be seen to be believed”.

Davy wants to start the year with

a win on Friday night but knows that it will not be easy without a number of players who are on club duty.

“The more games we get in preparation for the (national) league the better and we will be targeting a win on Friday night. We need a bit of momentum going into the season… let’s see where that takes us. But we have a limited panel and we are without the Castlerea and St Brigid’s players so we will have to put in a big effort with the players we have. We are looking forward to it”.

Roscommon have a very good recent record against Sligo at senior level and while Friday night’s game should be competitive, Roscommon should have enough quality to get their season off to a winning start.

Prediction: Roscommon.

29

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

SportsPeople

Mulryan finds Goldinthemountains Horses for Courses Taking a look back at the Christmas, in Leopardstown I hope Goldinthemountains gave you back some of, if not all of, your seasonal expenses. He was highlighted here in the preview. Sean Mulryan’s 4-Y-O trained by Martin Brassil and ridden

by Pa King beat Mywayofthinkin and the favourite Cantico in the bumper on St Stephen’s Day by 2l and 3½l at odds of 10/1 from 14/1.

Elsewhere on the card in the feature Racing Post Novice Chase, the odds-on fav Facile Vega finished a disappointing last of four behind Gordon Elliott’s Found A Fifty under Jack Kennedy with My Mate Mozzie and Sharjah filling the minor places. Elliott also won the Grade 2 Juvenile Hurdle with Kala Conti ridden by Danny Gilligan.

In Limerick, Mullins had a double, winning the featured Grade 2 Land Rover Novice Hurdle with Loughglynn and the juvenile hurdle with Bunting, both ridden by Sean O’Keeffe.

In the north at Down Royal, Gavin Cromwell and jockey Kieren Buckley enjoyed a double with The Other Mozzie and Ask Anything. Cromwell also had a winner in Limerick, The King Of Prs, ridden by Sean Flanagan.

Cross-channel at Kempton, Shark Hanlon’s €850 bargain buy Hewick brought his winnings to over €500k with victory in the King George over Bravemansgame and other Irish runner, favourite, Al-

laho. It is onto Prestbury Park and the Gold Cup in March for the winner. Paul Nicholls’ 11-Y-O Frodon servant, winner of the race in 2020, was retired after the race. Patrick Neville’s Mahons Glory won the closing handicap hurdle.

Constitution Hill repeated his win in the Christmas Hurdle with ease.

Mullins off Leopardstown mark Willie Mullins finally got off the Leopardstown mark last Wednesday winning the Grade 1 Paddy’s Reward Club Chase with Dinoblue ridden by Mark Walsh and completed a treble with Meetingofthewaters ridden by Danny Mullins and Joystick under Patrick Mullins.

The other Grade 1, the Paddy Power Future Champions Novice Hurdle, was won by Elliott and Kennedy with Caldwell Potter. Barry Connell’s Marine Nationale was very impressive when winning the beginners chase and Mark Walsh completed a double on Eoin Griffin’s One Last Tango.

On Thursday, Mullins enjoyed another treble with Jade De Grugy under Paul Townend, Fact To File ridden by Mark Walsh and Townend again rode Galopin Des Champs to victory in the Grade 1 Savills Chase.

Mullins also won the Grade 1 Faugheen Novice Chase in Limerick with Gaelic Warrior and son Patrick aboard.

The Grade 1 Jack de Bromhead Christmas Hurdle was

by Tom Red

won by Elliott and Kennedy with Irish Point. Mulryan’s Fastorslow was withdrawn due the heavy conditions but he gained some compensation for the withdrawal when Built By Ballymore won the Limerick maiden hurdle ridden by Conor Brassil, the trainer’s son.

On the final day, Mullins and Townend enjoyed another treble when Ballyburn won the maiden hurdle and both Grade 1 races, the Neville Hotels Novice Chase with Grangeclare West, and the Matheson Hurdle with State Man repeating last year’s win.

New Year’s Day racing at Fairyhouse saw punters having mixed fare with two oddson favourites winning but three being beaten. Molly’s Mango and Nick Rockett won but My Trump Card, Allegorie De Vassy and I Am River were all beaten. Elliott had a treble with Molly’s Mango, Riviere D’etel and Staffordshire Knot. WP Mullins and Karl Thornton had doubles.

At Cheltenham on New Year’s Day the Grade 2 race Relkeel Hurdle went to Bob Olinger and Rachael Blackmore for Henry de Bromhead.

This win completed an Irish double with Gavin Cromwell and Keith Donohue having won earlier on Stumptown.

On Tuesday, Stuart Crawford sent a team of eight horses to Ayr where he recorded a treble, winning with Ballycoose and Joshua Des Flos, both ridden by Daryl Jacob, and with Ailie Rose, ridden

by JJ Slevin.

Hewick gets up to win the King George from Bravemansgame with Allaho third.

This weekend’s racing Horseracing is very light on the ground after the Christmas programme. On Saturday the action is at Cork, near Mallow, with racing away at 12.12 pm.

Sunday sees the first meeting of the New Year at the punter’s graveyard, Naas, in Co Kildare with the first race off at 12.30 pm and features the Grade 1 Lawlor’s of Naas Novice Hurdle. No further racing in Ireland until this day week at Clonmel.

There are ten entries left in the Lawlor’s of Naas Novice Hurdle on Saturday where Elliott’s Firefox faces Mullins’ Ile Atlantique hoping to extend his winning run to five. A winner of three bumpers, including the defeat of Ile Atlantique by ¾l at Fairyhouse, the vote goes to Elliott’s 5-Y-O to confirm the form.

The bumper is for 4-Y-Os only. As all are having their first track outing it’s wide open and with WP Mullins passing it by, best left alone.

Racing on TV On Saturday ITV racing is covering four races from Sandown including the Grade 1 Tolworth Novice Hurdle in which there is one Irish runner, Henry de Bromhead’s Arctic Bresil, and three from Wincanton.

Gold Cup showdown Martin Brassil’s Sean Mulryanowned Fastorslow and WP Mullins’ Galopin Des Champs head the nine Irish entries for the 20-runner Gold Cup in March, a small entry compared to 27 last year.

Mullins also has Monkfish with Shark Hanlon’s bargain buy Hewick, Elliott’s Gerri

Colombe and Conflated, de Bromhead’s Envoi Allen and Jungle Boogie, and Mouse Morris’s Gentlemansgame.

Fastorslow could also appear at the Dublin Racing Festival.

24 horses are set to take on Constitution Hill, 1/3 favourite in the ante-post market, in the Champion Hurdle, with 17 trained in Ireland, including the Mullins-trained State Man.

Racing news There are 19 entered in the Champion Chase, with Mullins having six of the ten Irishtrained, headed by ante-post favourite El Fabiolo backed up with Dinoblue, Ferny Hollow, Gentleman De Mee, Appreciate It and Dysart Dynamo.

There are 32 entries in the Ryanair Chase with eighteen trained in Ireland. WP Mullins has 10 horses entered, with his Allaho heading the betting.

Buccs face Corinthians in cup semi-final The Exiles squad pictured ahead of the revived cup match against a President’s selection, commemorating Pat Hynes, on St Stephen’s Day.

The President’s squad pictured ahead of the revived cup match against The Exiles, commemorating Pat Hynes, on St Stephen’s Day.

Buccaneers commence the defence of their Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior Cup when they face Galway Corinthians at Dubarry Park on Saturday, January 6th.

This semi-final will be a tricky assignment as the Galway team are in flying form, lying in second place in AIL 2B. The teams met in the first fixture of the season when the Pirates came out on top by ten points in a Connacht Senior League game at the Athlone venue.

The midlanders have finally been getting some reward for their endeavours in Division 1B and, if they maintain their improved performances, home advantage could be the decisive ingredient. Kick-off is at 2.30 pm.

Exiles win revived cup: The revived Exiles fixture commemorating Pat Hynes at Buccaneers RFC served up high-scoring and entertaining fare on a cool but dry St Stephen’s Day at Dubarry Park where a ‘final move of the game’ try by Harry Hughes edged the Exiles to a 42-38 victory over the Buccs’ President’s side.

The opening half was a lively affair with both teams playing good rugby but the Exiles were the better team going in at the break, leading 21-12.

The second half was equally as entertaining as both teams maintained their attacking rugby style, with the President’s selection finally taking the lead midway through the half, but a last-gasp try from the Exiles meant that they just managed to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Two fathers and sons played, Kolo Kiripati and son Nato and Diarmuid Morrissey and son Conor, which may be a first in this event. Both were on opposing sides with Morrissey Snr exchanging refereeing duties to join the action in the second half with Dermot Hallahan taking up the referee role.

Overall, it proved a great occasion that will surely become an established festive fixture at the club.

One minute’s silence in memory of those who had passed in 2023 was respectfully observed prior to kick-off.

30

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

SportsPeople Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Josephine’s Main Street, Castlerea Tel.: 094 96 20291

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WALDRON

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Bruen has injury-free squad fit and ready for All-Ireland semi-final showdown Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

AIB All-Ireland Intermediate Club FC semi-final: Castlerea St Kevin’s v Cill na Martra (Cork) on Saturday in Laois Hire O’Moore Park, Portlaoise at 2.30 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Having set a win in the Roscommon IFC as their goal for 2023, Castlerea St Kevin’s begin a new year just one step away from an All-Ireland final appearance in Croke Park when they take on Cill na Martra of Cork in the semi-final this Saturday.

The fact that the west Cork side are managed by ex-Roscommon senior team manager John Evans adds spice to the contest. In the opposite corner is Dara Bruen, a man

who would have worked alongside Evans as a coach with Roscommon, and the Castlerea manager is looking forward to the challenge this weekend.

“We have been training hard over the Christmas and the lads have been brilliant, to be honest.

They had a couple of nights out, but nothing too serious, but they have applied themselves well to the training and they realise that a chance like this doesn’t come about too often” he said.

Dara is expecting a huge challenge from the Corkmen who he has seen in action a number of times. “They are a very strong side. They won a very tough Cork championship and a bit like Castlerea, they went into the final against Bantry as the outsiders but they caught them at the end to win it.

“They are physically strong and they have power and pace. They have some excellent players and their full back Tadhg Corcoran is on the Cork senior panel. They

have been very impressive in Munster and they will be very strong opposition” he said.

Bruen is reporting a full bill of health in the run-up to the semifinal. “We have no injuries whatsoever and everyone is available, so that’s a plus. We are really looking forward to the challenge now at a venue (O’Moore Park) that has good memories for Roscommon supporters over the years” he said.

Bruen says that the support for the club has been fantastic over the past few weeks. “We have been thrilled with all the support that we have been getting, and not just in the town, but around the country and further afield too. We are going out there on Saturday to have a real cut at it.

“It is not easy for the players. They have had friends home for Christmas and they couldn’t go out with them, but as I said earlier this opportunity won’t come up too often.

“We have had a lot of people who came home for Christmas who are

delaying their return flights so they can go to the match. The atmosphere is great in the club and hopefully we can give it a real go” he concluded.

It is unfair to say that Castlerea are now very much in bonus territory. They will look at the likes of St Croan’s and Michael Glavey’s, both of whom made it through to All-Ireland finals over the past decade. However, the west Cork side look a formidable side and it will take a huge Castlerea performance to upset the odds. They have done it in the county final and again in the Connacht final but this might just be a step too far.

Prediction: Cill na Martra.

Note: Both Saturday’s intermediate semi-finals will be shown live on the TG4 Sport YouTube Channel.

The first semi-final between Allenwood and Cullyhanna is at 1 pm while the second semi-final between Castlerea St Kevin’s and Cill na Martra will be at 2.30 pm

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Talisman Adam McDermott, in action here against Monivea-Abbey in the Connacht final, will be a crucial player for Castlerea St Kevin’s in this Saturday’s AllIreland IFC semi-final against Cill na Martra from Cork. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

31

Roscommon People Friday 05 January 2024

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Nathan Bligh from Castlerea St Kevin’s scored a great goal in the Connacht final against Monivea-Abbey and will be determined to put in a big performance in the All-Ireland semi-final on Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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Michael Conroy, captain of Castlerea St Kevin’s, pictured here holding the cup and his man of the match award after the Connacht final, hopes to lead his team to an All-Ireland final this weekend. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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AIB All-Ireland Club SF semi-final: St Brigid’s v Castlehaven on Sunday in Semple Stadium at 1.45 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

It may be hard to believe, but it is 11 years since Frankie Dolan’s injury-time point gave St Brigid’s their historic All-Ireland senior club title win. Now the club has a great chance of getting to another final when they take on

Cork and Munster champions Castlehaven at Semple Stadium this Sunday.

As we have seen in Roscommon and in Connacht, St Brigid’s are capable of playing some superb football and if they can produce a display close to their best they have a great chance of appearing in the All-Ireland final against Kilmacud or Glen at the end of the month.

Castlehaven won their 6th Cork SFC title by beating Nemo Rangers by 0-11 to 0-9 and in the Munster final they famously won on

Ben O’Carroll has been in top form in the forward line for St Brigid’s this season and will be a crucial player in Sunday’s All-Ireland SFC Club semi-final against Castlehaven. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

penalties against Dingle after a titanic battle in atrocious conditions.

They are managed by James McCarthy and have several well-known names in their ranks. Damien Cahalane was the hero in the Munster final as not only did the centre half-back go into goal for the penalty shootout, he saved a penalty and then went on to score the winning penalty as well.

Probably Castlehaven’s best player is Cork regular Brian Hurley who plays at centre half-forward or full-forward and is an excellent finisher. Brian Stack will expect to have marking duties on Sunday against Hurley.

There are five Cahalanes on the panel, and Rory Maguire and Michael Hurley also have county experience and of course the club have some legends of the game from the past like Larry Tomkins and Niall Cahalane. They have displayed a lot of resilience and tenacity in the championship so far and Brigid’s will have to be at their very best to defeat them.

St Brigid’s have shown that their young team is very talented and at their best they are a super side. The likes of Pearse Frost, Ruaidhri Fallon, Paul McGrath, Shane Cunnane, Ciaran Sugrue, Ben O’Carroll, Robbie Dolan, Conor Hand, Bobby Nugent and Brian Derwin are young, talented players who will have a stage to show what they can do this Sunday.

When you add the experience of Cormac Sheehy, Ronan Stack, Eddie Nolan and Alan Daly into the mix it looks a very formidable Brigid’s team.

The wide, open spaces of Semple Stadium should suit Jerome Stack’s men and if the day is reasonable weather-wise, they have a great chance of progressing to the final if they can find their best form. It will be close, as most games are at this time of the year, but I think Brigid’s can progress to the final.

Prediction: St Brigid’s

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Note: Both Sunday’s senior semi-finals will be shown live on TG4. The St Brigid’s v Castlehaven match is at 1.45 pm while the Kilmacud v Glen game from Newry will be at 3.45 pm

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McDonnell hoping for ‘spirit of 2013’ Brian Hand < SEAMUS DUKE

Michael McDonnell is the St Brigid’s club chairperson and also a selector with the team, and he acknowledges that this semi-final is a fantastic opportunity for the club to be a part of the biggest day in club football.

“The lads have been training hard since the Connacht final. It was a quiet Christmas for the players but the lads don’t mind.

They know how big an occasion this is. We have no major injuries which is very positive and they are rearing to go now” he said.

Like St Brigid’s, Castlehaven have a very strong history in the club championship. They have won four Munster titles but

have yet to taste All-Ireland glory. They emerged from Cork and Munster this year following a series of hard battles and Michael McDonnell says that they are a very resilient side.

“Make no mistake, Castlehaven will provide a huge test for us. The Cork county championship is not easy to win and they battled back two or three times against Dingle in the Munster final so we have been well warned. They are a big, physical side and are very mobile too so they will be a very hard side to overcome”.

Michael agrees that this is a huge opportunity to get to play in the biggest game in club football. “It’s a massive opportunity for

both clubs on Sunday. All the focus will be on the other semi-final between Kilmacud and Glen as they are the hot favourites in this championship but we have to concentrate on our match and put our best foot forward on the day”.

Michael says that they are several variables that will have to be taken into consideration on the day.

“Semple Stadium is a venue unknown to us and very few of our players will ever have played there but it is a superb pitch so there are no worries there. But the weather can always be a factor at this time of the year and the team will have to be able to adapt to the conditions if need be”.

The St Brigid’s selector says that the experience of

their All-Ireland title win 11 years ago has given the club an idea of just how big Sunday’s game is.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s 11 years since we won that title. It’s only when you are out of the loop that you realise just how big

it is. There are only four teams left in this competition and to be in the final in Croke Park would be huge and we would love to get back there again. This is a new Brigid’s team but if we play to our potential we can get to that final”.

OIL

Cllr. John

KEOGH

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council

Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamullia, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Tel: 087 6440534 cllrjkeogh@roscommoncoco.ie

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John Naughten

ARDKEENAN, DRUM, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON

(090) 6437928 / (087) 9019334

E.: cllrjnaughten@roscommoncoco.ie