06 September 2024 - Roscommon People by RossiePeople

CBS Roscommon to switch to co-ed status next year

In a historic move, one of County Roscommon’s most renowned schools has conﬁrmed that it will switch to a co-ed model next year – accepting girls as well as boys.

CBS Roscommon announced earlier this week that it has received approval from the Department of Education and Skills to transition from an all-boys school to a co-educational school, starting in September 2025. The decision marks a signiﬁcant milestone in the history of a school which has been has a cornerstone of the local community since 1935.

The school, which is located at Abbeytown, Roscommon, said the transition reﬂects its commitment to providing a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

In a press statement, CBS Roscommon said that the switch to co-education represents a proactive step towards meeting the evolving educational needs of our community.

“By welcoming both male and female

students, the school aims to enrich its academic programmes and foster a supportive atmosphere where all students can thrive”.

Commenting to the Roscommon People newspaper, Kevin Scollan, Principal of CBS Roscommon said: “We are excited about the opportunities that becoming coed will bring to CBS Roscommon.

“This decision will allow us to offer a more comprehensive educational experience, catering to the diverse talents and aspirations of all students”.

The school management is currently working on implementing necessary changes to facilities and curriculum to ensure a smooth transition.

Prospective students and their families are encouraged to attend the upcoming enrolment night on October 24th to learn more about the beneﬁts of a co-educational environment at CBS Roscommon.

The school said it is dedicated to excellence in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities, preparing students for success in their future endeavours.

HEALY

(090)

COSMETIC SURGERY

I am thinking about getting some cosmetic surgery. I am nervous about this and I am trying to do as much research as possible. I am particularly concerned about something going wrong. I know that Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors have a Medical Negligence Department and I wonder if you have come across many legal cases where cosmetic procedures have not worked out as they should.

Thank you for your enquiry and I commend you on your decision to do as much research as possible prior to embarking on an elective cosmetic procedure.

I work within our busy Medical Negligence Department and I represent and advise clients who have experienced a negative outcome following such procedures. In recent times, the number of enquiries relating to cosmetic procedures has signiﬁcantly increased.

Common medical negligence causes of action involving elective cosmetic procedures which we address within our Medical Negligence Department include such issues as:

• Breast augmentation resulting in scarring, injury or poor outcome

• Liposuction procedures resulting in scarring or injury

• Injury or poor outcome from abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

• Injury or poor outcome from rhinoplasty

• Injury or poor outcome from laser eye surgery

• Injury or poor outcome from permanent or semipermanent make-up.

The lack of adequate regulation of the cosmetic procedure business in Ireland is unsatisfactory. Following concerns expressed in relation to the safety and quality of surgical cosmetic procedures both in Ireland and abroad, recommendations were developed in partnership between the Irish Association of Plastic Surgeons and the Ofﬁce of the Chief Medical Ofﬁcer. This guidance paper entitled ‘Recommendations for patients considering surgical cosmetic procedures’ is available on the Department of Health website. I would respectfully suggest that you review this prior to proceeding with any elective cosmetic procedure.

With PAUL HEALY

SATURDAY

What a morning! Such queues!

Same for me! It was crazy! I actually got up at 7.30 am, just to be completely fresh and energised and ready!

Oh, I didn’t realise you have the same Saturday morning routine as we do! I guess I told you of its supposed beneﬁts before!

I don’t follow…

Anyways, that queuing this morning was a shocker!

Eh… yeah…

At one point, I was queue-jumped!

At one point? Sure people were constantly being queue-jumped!

Were you in the same supermarket as me?

Supermarket?

Yeah, this morning? That agonising queue in the vegetable section? A nightmare! At one stage I was within touching distance of the broccoli when an old lady suddenly came from behind and queue-jumped me!

Before I could muster even a standard ‘hold your horses’ she was gone into the distance, with an armful of broccoli and enough tomatoes to…

I wasn’t talking about a supermarket queue!

I meant the tortuous queuing for tickets for Oasis! The Ticketmaster ﬁasco!

Oh, sorry! I was on about our weekend routine… we do our weekly shop on either a Friday night or a Saturday morning, supposedly to avoid queues! But it was pretty busy this morning!

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

Well, one old lady jumping a queue for broccoli is nothing compared to the nightmare the rest of the country had this morning… queueing for those elusive Oasis tickets!

I want to talk to you about Oasis in a moment! First, one other important issue, based on our chat so far… Yeah?

WATCHING People

Saturday morning frustration due to a never-ending queue!

Is a tomato actually a vegetable, or is it a fruit?

(They pause to chat about the Roscommon Club Championships, now taking shape and offering the promise of intriguing weekends ahead)

On Oasis tickets, what I wanted to say was, you shouldn’t be trying to buy any! Remember my plan from last week… we cover a Croker concert for the Roscommon People! You’re delusional!

Not so! I’ve already been on to the PR company handling press accreditation! Really?

YES! I spoke with a nice lady, and explained that we would be happy to review the concert AND interview Noel and Liam backstage, all for a special Roscommon People spread! In return, all I asked for was complimentary tickets, and access to any after-party! What did she say?

We got cut off, but I expect she’ll call back!

I think you’ll be spending Saturday, August 17 2025 … doing your weekly shop! My friend, on Saturday, August 17th next year you and I will be at that after-party with Noel and Liam!

Huh! You’ll be in supermarket mode! Not so! You and I will be in Champagne Supernova mode!

It’s been a GOOD week for…

The holidaying German owners of Bernese Mountain dog Mali, this after the pet was found safe and well and clinging to a cliff edge – having been missing off the coast of Donegal for two weeks

Irish Coldplay fans, with the acclaimed rock band performing ﬁve concerts at Croke Park

Liverpool supporters, this after the Reds secured early-season bragging rights over great rivals Manchester United, Liverpool strolling to a 3-0 win when the clubs met at Old Trafford

It’s been a BAD week for…

Our political establishment, this after the revelation that a bike shed was installed at Leinster House at a cost of €336,050

Ticketmaster (not that they’re likely to be too bothered), this after huge controversy over the hiking of the price of Oasis tickets when they went on sale last Saturday

PIC OF THE WEEK: There was plenty of sun, fun and smiles at the Elphin Agricultural Show on Saturday last. Pictured were Killian Carney and Anna Martha Gunn.

Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

JUST ARRIVED

Delivery of Spring Flowering Bulbs, Tulips, Hyacinths, Da odils, etc

Special o er: 50 for €4.99

September is the best time of year to sow your lawn! You need Lawn Seed, Lawn Fertiliser, Compost

MAKING JAM?

We have jam jars, lids, jam sugar, etc.

COUGHS OR COLDS?

McGarry’s memoir explores ‘seismic changes’ in Church

Small amount of local honey available Try our new Special Cough Bottle now in stock

SOME UNWELCOME VISITORS THIS TIME OF YEAR?

Selection of rat and mouse poison – Storm & Rat Traps, Mouse Traps, Ultrasonic Pest repellers, Live Catch Traps, Bait Boxes Remember! Prevention is better than cure!

DUCK SEASON HAS STARTED!

Don’t forget Robert Flynn’s are fully LICENCED FIREARMS DEALERS

Large selection of Bullets, Cartridges – all at shot sizes and top brands stocked. Selection of Shotguns, Bolt Action Ri es, Air Ri es Decoys, Duck Callers, Fox Callers, Gun Cabinets, Trigger Locks

ROSCOMMON’S LARGEST FISHING TACKLE DEALER

Spinners, Spoons, Rods, Reels, Dead Bait, Permits

a new book, titled ‘Well, Holy God’.

The book is biographical, detailing McGarry’s personal account of growing up in the Catholic Church, his career as a Religious Affairs Correspondent, and the faith he lost when the stark realities of that Church became apparent to him.

Starting from his early childhood in Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon – marked, like most others, by strict religious observance – the memoir journeys through McGarry’s formative years and education, to his ultimate position as The Irish Times’s Religious Affairs Correspondent in a period of massive social upheaval.

The book covers the gamut of his career, from the horrors of the various clerical child sex abuse cases and the muted reaction of the Church of Ireland to the violence at Drumcree, to the role of women in the Catholic Church and the tragedies of the Mother and Baby Homes and the Magdalene laundries.

There is a whole chapter dedicated to disgraced Bishop Eamonn Casey, the subject of recent sexual abuse allegations.

Alongside accounts of such events, there are lighter anecdotes, including the perils of travelling with a pope, encounters with the remarkable characters Patsy has met along the way, and a look at the good that those with a true calling can do.

In the space of a generation, organised religion

Ireland has been transformed from a powerful, intrinsic, inescapable presence, to one that is seen as tainted, outdated, and increasingly peripheral.

memoir

County Roscommon native Patsy McGarry, Religious Affairs Correspondent for The Irish Times since 1997, has written

Man taken to hospital following accident outside Castlerea

A man was taken to hospital on Monday morning following a single-vehicle road trafﬁc collision on the R361, just outside Castlerea. Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of the accident, which is understood to have occurred at approximately 6 am. The man was taken to University Hospital Galway for treatment of injuries. The injuries sustained are believed to be non-life-threatening. Investigations are ongoing.

Statue in honour of Fr Browne to be unveiled this Sunday

A life-sized memorial statue depicting beloved local priest Fr Raymond Browne, who passed away in November 2020 aged 92, is to be unveiled this Sunday, September 8th , in Fourmilehouse. Fr Browne served the parish of Kilbride for 34 years (29 as parish priest and 5 as pastor-emeritus). Prior to his time in Kilbride, his ministry took him to a number of parishes, including Drumboylan and Roscommon town (for fourteen years each), and he also spent four years in Nigeria.

He was immensely dedicated to his work, spending his retirement years continuing to exercise an active pastoral ministry.

Fr Browne’s memorial statue, which has been constructed from marble, was commissioned with County Roscommon-based company Feelystone. As Kilbride parish comprises both Fourmilehouse and Derrane, the decision was made to erect the statue in Fouremilehouse, within the vicinity of St Brigid’s Church, and to install new public seating in memory of Fr Browne in Derrane, close to Our Lady of Lourdes Church.

The ofﬁcial unveiling ceremony this Sunday will be preceded by a special Mass at 12 noon, celebrated by the Bishop of Elphin, Kevin Doran. After Mass, Bishop Doran will bless the statue, along with the new public seating. Refreshments will be served in the community centre. All are welcome.

Bruce Willis and Demi

Moore’s daughter Scout singing in Athlone

Scout Willis, daughter of Hollywood stars Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, is joining Kelley Swindall on her Irish tour, with the two having set up base in Athlone this week for a series of concerts across the country. Shows were organised in Athlone for Tuesday (in Peddler Mac’s), Thursday (in Sean’s Bar), and Fri-

day (Sean’s Bar and Nuts Corner) of this week, with a Wednesday performance in Whelan’s, Dublin. They will also perform in Drogheda and Sligo over the weekend.

Scout was introduced to Ireland by US native, author, and musician Mary Helen Hensley, a wellknown chiropractor on the

Dublin Road in Athlone who has known Willis for several years.

Upon hearing from Willis about Kelley Swindall organising a UK tour, Hensley encouraged Willis to make Athlone the duo’s base for an Irish tour.

Tickets are available on bandsintown.com.

Blessing of Animals

A Blessing of your pets will take place at the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 28th of September at 3 pm.

This Blessing is supported by Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. RSPCA street collection in Boyle

At this time of the year for the Roscommon Society for the prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), nancial resources are at their very lowest – and yet there has been a signi cant increase in the amount of injured and sick animals in desperate need of assistance.

The RSPCA is run completely by volunteers who give up their free time to fundraise, and who work tirelessly each weekend to gather enough funds to cover upcoming vet bills – which so far this year has amounted to over 80K.

The RSPCA kindly ask for your support for their upcoming fundraising street collection in Boyle, which will take place on both Friday, September 13th, and Saturday, September 14th. Volunteers will be collecting from 10 am to 4 pm at various locations throughout Boyle town. All money collected will go directly to animal welfare in the county.

If you would like to learn more about the RSPCA, please visit roscommonspca.ie or call 087 0505594.

Roscommon CBS 1969 Reunion call

A Roscommon CBS school reunion will take place on Saturday evening, 5th of October. Mass will be celebrated in the school hall, followed by an informative tour of the school led by Kevin Scollan, Principal of CBS Roscommon. After the tour, all attendees are welcome to enjoy a meal in the Abbey Hotel. If you would like to participate, please reach out to the organising committee by the 18th of September. You can contact any committee member via email or phone: Albert Siggins: albertsiggins@hotmail.com | 0892428328 Michael Cuddy: michaelcuddy2012@gmail.com | 0866080917 Michael Finneran: michael. nneran39@icloud.com

Pictured are Sandra Hewitt, Scout Willis, Mary Helen Hensley and Kelley Swindall.

THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT

THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT LOSS PLAN RETURNS TO ROSCOMMON

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THE SYSTEM 10 PLAN INCLUDES:

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• An analysis of your metabolism

• An exercise plan (home - walk, jog or bike) or gym plan including toning.

• Nutritionist designed highly balanced food plans of normal, natural foods, no pills, bars or shakes.

• An exercise plan (home - walk, jog or bike) or gym plan including toning.

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WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY.

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY WEDNESDAY at The Hive, Dublin Road, Carrick-On-Shannon.

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY

At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY at The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61 BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

Level 7 Psychology course at Vita House, Roscommon

This Certiﬁcate level course is designed to provide participants with the opportunity to develop an understanding of psychology and to explore its relevance to the individual, family, community and society.

The course draws a wonderful crosssection of people of all ages and from all walks of life. The venue is Vita House, Abbey Street, Roscommon and the course

Cllr John Naughten announces Dáil bid

 PAUL HEALY

Fine Gael’s Cllr John Naughten has this week conﬁrmed that he will contest the Fine Gael convention, due to be held later this month, with the aim of contesting the next General Election in the Roscommon-Galway constituency.

Senator Aisling Dolan has previously made it clear that she will be seeking the party nomination. It remains to be seen whether or not other candidates emerge.

Cllr Naughten’s brother, Denis, is a former Fine Gael TD, now in the Independent ranks. Deputy Denis Naughten previously announced that he will not be contesting the forthcoming election. Their late father, Liam

Naughten, was an Oireachtas members for many years.

Speaking about his decision, Cllr John Naughten said: “I was contacted some time ago by the then Taoiseach Leo Varadkar who asked me to consider contesting the forthcoming General Election.

“Over the last number of weeks I have been inundated with requests from people within the Fine Gael organisation, both locally and nationally, as well as other local organisations asking if I would contest the forthcoming General Election.

“Following the redrawing of the Roscommon-Galway constituency, I feel my geographical location leaves me ideally placed to deliver a Dáil seat and I believe I am the candidate who can unite

our party locally, rebuild it and secure a Dáil seat in the next General Election”.

Cllr Naughten has been a member of Roscommon County Council for 21 years. He was most recently re-elected to the Council

in June of this year. Cllr Naughten added: “I am very grateful to all the people throughout the constituency and further aﬁeld who have contacted me over the last number of weeks for the conﬁdence they have expressed in me.

“The aim now, if I secure a party nomination, is to deliver Dáil representation for Fine Gael in this constituency once more. This will require dedication and hard work, something I have demonstrated throughout my time on Roscommon County Council”.

The Fine Gael convention for the RoscommonGalway constituency will be held in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Town, on Friday, 20th of September at 7.30 pm.

Feighan wins FG Convention in Sligo

Deputy Frank Feighan was selected to once again contest the SligoLeitrim constituency for Fine Gael in the upcoming General Election.

Deputy Feighan defeated John Perry by 352 votes to 77 at a selec-

tion convention held on Sunday last in the Clayton Hotel in Sligo.

Following his success, Deputy Feighan said: “I am honoured to have been selected to represent Fine Gael in Sligo-Leitrim. With

will be delivered on Monday nights from 7.30 pm to 10 pm (and occasional Saturday workshops). This course is delivered in association with NUI Maynooth. Closing date is September 12th. Course will start in October.

Testimonial from former student

“The curriculum was well structured, delving into a diverse range of psychology subjects such as attachment theory,

psychology of the brain, and the fundamentals of psychology itself.

“The six Saturday workshops, including topics like grief and loss, inner child exploration, and mindfulness, added practical dimensions to the theoretical knowledge. Particularly enriching were the two Saturdays at Maynooth University, which provided valuable insights from a broader academic perspective”.

years of political experience and having served as a Minister of State during this term, I am conﬁdent in my ability to represent the people of Sligo-Leitrim effectively”.

Cllr John Naughten

FRIDAY

It’s Him, it’s Him, it’s…

For those of us of a certain age, watching Top of the Pops (Thursday evenings, around 7 pm) was a weekly highlight in the 1970s and ‘80s. These days, BBC Four broadcasts old TOTP shows a few nights every week, and I occasionally dip in for a nostalgic detour.

This evening, I was surprised to see the line-up of live performers in an episode broadcast this month 47 years ago (on September 1st) included Mullingar superstar, the late Joe Dolan. He was in elite company too… also appearing were Elvis Costello, David Essex, and Elkie Brooks!

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

Whether he was singing or miming I’m not sure, but Joe sounded great as he belted out I Need You (presenter Tony Blackburn was very impressed).

Apparently it wasn’t Joe’s only appearance on the show. Sadly, he died in 2007. What a star we had in the greatly missed Joe Dolan.

SATURDAY

The Ticketmasteraurus

Readers this week may not consider the following historical record important, but I include it so that future generations can have some sense of the trauma we endured today, Saturday, 31st of August 2024.

A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was… paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Ticketmasteraurus was ruthless, stomping on their dreams and crushing their hopes. To be continued (hopefully).

It had started like any other late summer morning in Ireland… dull and dreary, with radio DJs talking inanely. But then it turned even more sinister. The people had risen at 7.30 am, on what they expected to be a day of destiny. But they could never have imagined the terror that would unfold. Giddy with ill-fated enthusiasm, they had scrolled on their ‘modern technology’ and pursued what they thought was an oasis in the desert that their lives had become – but sadly it turned out to be a mirage.

The people were powerless as a great beast (The Ticketmasteraurus) destroyed all before it. Already worn down by ﬁnancial volatility, unprecedented climate change, and the 2 Johnnies, the people had been hoping for some joy in their lives… but the

SUNDAY

The road to yesteryear

Driving to Dublin via the old route is scenic and interesting in its own way –but the real reason I do it is because I’ve developed some kind of phobia about busy motorways.

And long bridges. And tunnels.

Sometimes I surprise myself on motorways, but usually I want to abandon the mission after half an hour or so, turning into the ‘old roads’ and all our yesteryears. It’s best for everyone’s sanity.

On a trip to Dublin today, passing through Kinnegad, Leixlip, Maynooth, Enﬁeld, etc brought back memories of journeys from the west to Dublin in the 1970s and ‘80s, and even into the early

1990s… before the Irish road network revolution.

Seeing those towns and villages again was a nostalgic adventure. The sight of landmark buildings, bridges, streams and long-admired houses opened the memory bank.

I recalled the hype about Mother Hubbards (near Moyvalley) when it ﬁrst opened! Kinnegad was always a favoured stop-off for a bite to eat when travelling to or from Croke Park (it still is a good option).

Driving into Maynooth, I recalled the historic visit to Ireland of Pope John Paul II in 1979. While many people from the west went to Galway or Knock, our family left Rooskey in the early hours of the morning to see the Pope in Maynooth (where my brother was studying for the priesthood).

While there were thousands of people waiting for several hours across the university grounds, as luck would

have it the Pope landed in a helicopter a mere 25 feet or so from us (not quite near enough to give this future journalist an exclusive quote – he did wave, mind you).

Today’s tour of towns also reminded me of the day of the 1997 Aintree Grand National. Travelling to a function in Dublin, we were struggling to ﬁnd an inviting venue and/or parking. Eventually, we settled into a nice pub in Lucan… only for the Grand National to be abandoned because of two IRA bomb threats.

Maybe taking the ‘old road’ is a bit crazy. But Bob Geldof sang ‘I don’t like Mondays’ – and I don’t like motorways.

MONDAY/TUESDAY

Bikegate exclusive!

The Roscommon People has obtained an exclusive interview with an OPW er,

spokesperson… on that controversial new bike shed at Leinster House.

As readers may be aware, the shed – which can accommodate about 18 bikes – has been installed at the politicians’ place of work at a cost of €336,050 (we love the fact that the €50 survived).

The OPW spokesperson was reluctant to speak at first, but finally agreed to an off the record briefing.

“It’s quite simple, Mr Healy. We needed a bike shed. I appreciate the cost may look expensive, but I assure you we were not taking the public for a ride”.

The spokesperson continued: “I promise you, I am not peddling any myths here, we genuinely needed a new bike shed. Sure Eamon Ryan and the Greens are up and down the plinth on bikes morning, noon and night”.

Under intensive questioning from this columnist, he continued: “Every electoral er, cycle… we review urgent priorities. I personally proposed the bike shed project and er, put the wheels in motion. After putting a chain of events into gear, the plans were drawn up, in tandem with my colleagues”.

The spokesperson defended the cost of the bike shed, but muttered that he was sorry taxpayers have been “saddled” with the bill.

“Look, I appreciate we have a housing crisis and other demands on the exchequer, but at least citizens can go to bed at night in the comfortable knowledge that TDs and senators (and staff) have a nice, modern €336,050 structure to store their bicycles in”.

Asked about the €2,952 which was set aside for ‘archaeological services’ as part of the project, the spokesperson said: “I’d rather not comment, I think we’ve dug enough holes for ourselves already”.

Latest: Kieran O’Donnell, Minister with Responsibility for the OPW, asks OPW to conduct a review of the affair and report to him (er, as the Minister with responsibility for the OPW); also, Government politicians breathe sigh of relief as Enoch Burke is jailed again… in the hope that it or something else will distract from Bikegate.

Bus crash sees nine hospitalised

Nine people were taken to hospital following a bus crash in County Roscommon last Saturday.

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of the single-vehicle road trafﬁc collision, which occurred on a local road at Derreenine, near Boyle, Co Roscommon at approximately 7 am on Saturday, August 31st

Gardaí conﬁrmed that nine individuals were brought to Sligo University Hospital for treatment of injuries, which were not

believed to be life-threatening. It appears that the bus went off the road during the accident. The road was closed for a period of time to facilitate the removal of the vehicle.

Investigations into the crash are ongoing.

Fatal traffic collision in Arigna

MAN (20s) DIES, WOMAN AND BOY HOSPITALISED

A man in his 20s died in a trafﬁc accident in Arigna, Co Roscommon which occurred on Tuesday. Gardaí said that the fatal two-vehicle road trafﬁc collision occurred on the R280 at Arigna, Co Roscommon on Tuesday, 3rd of September 2024 at approximately 8.20 pm. A male driver (20s) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

A woman (50s) and male child were brought to Sligo University Hospital for treatment of injuries believed to be serious but not life-threatening.

The scene underwent technical examination by Forensic Collision Investigators and the road was closed for a period, with local diversions in place.

Gardaí have appealed for any witnesses to this collision to come forward. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area at the time of the incident between 8 pm and 8.30 pm, are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on (094) 9621630, the Garda Conﬁdential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar leads way as a phone-free school

Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar has taken a bold step towards enhancing student well-being and improving the classroom environment by becoming a phone-free school. The decision, which has already received widespread support from students, parents, and staff, was implemented in response to growing concerns over the impact of mobile phone usage on teaching, learning, and student welfare.

The move comes as Minister for Education Norma Foley pledges to “ban mobile phone use for post-primary schools around the country”.

In a fascinating new initiative, the Ballygar school has introduced ‘Phone Pouches’ – a simple yet effective solution to ensure that phones are out of sight and out of mind during the school day. Each morning, students bring their phones to school along with their designated pouch. At the beginning of the ﬁrst class, phones are placed in the pouches and locked away for the day. These pouches can only be unlocked using specialised stations, which are available at the school before the ﬁnal bell each evening.

The system is designed with ﬂexibility in mind. For school trips, teachers are equipped with portable unlocking stations to manage phone usage as needed. If a student requires their phone to contact home during the day, they can do so through the school ofﬁce, ensuring that communication needs are met without compromising the phone-free environment.

The initiative has already garnered positive feedback, particularly from Leaving Certiﬁcate students, who have noted the surprising calm they experience when they ﬁnally check

their phones after school – often ﬁnding far fewer notiﬁcations than expected. This has underscored the programme’s impact on reducing distractions and fostering a more focused academic atmosphere.

The introduction of Phone Pouches has been endorsed by the Parents Association and the Board of Management, who see this move as a proactive measure in line with recent comments by Minister for Education Norma Foley.

Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar is proud to be ahead of the curve, setting an example for others to follow.

Staff at Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar are optimistic that this initiative will continue to foster a positive and productive learning environment. The overwhelming support from the school community has been instrumental in its success, and there is a strong sense that this change will have lasting beneﬁts for students and staff alike.

In a time when digital distractions are at an all-time high, Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar is taking a stand to prioritise the well-being and academic success of its students, and the early results are promising.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL NOTICE OF MAKING OF THE ROSCOMMMON TOWN LOCAL AREA PLAN 2024 – 2030 In accordance with: Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 (as amended)

Notice is hereby given that the Roscommon Town Local Area Plan 2024 – 2030 was formally adopted by the Elected Members of the Roscommon Municipal District at a special meeting on the 25th July 2024. The adopted Plan is due to come into e ect on 5th September 2024 (unless subject to a Ministerial Draft Direction under Section 31 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), where such elements as may be the subject of any Draft Direction will not come into e ect on that date).

The Roscommon Town Local Area Plan 2024 – 2030 is a statutory document prepared by the Planning Authority in accordance with the requirements of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended).

This Plan is accompanied by a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Environmental Report which contains information on how environmental considerations have been integrated into the Plan. The Plan is also accompanied by an Appropriate Assessment (AA) Natura Impact Report and a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA).

A copy of the Roscommon Town Local Area Plan 2024 – 2030 along with its accompanying reports, inclusive of the SEA Statement and AA Conclusion Statement, is available to view on the following website: www.rosdevplan.ie

Please scan the QR on right for direct access.

Copies of the Roscommon Town Local Area Plan 2024 – 2030 will be available in due course to purchase from the Planning Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98.

Signed: Greg O’Donnell A/Director of Services

Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar students pictured unlocking their new ‘Phone Pouches’ at one of the school’s specialised stations. The new practice was introduced in an e ort to ensure phones

Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar students pictured with their new ‘Phone Pouches’, introduced in an e ort to ensure phones are out of sight and out of mind during the school day.

81 less pubs in Roscommon now compared to 2005

A new report from the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) shows a continuing decline in the number of pubs in Ireland, with 2,054 fewer pubs today than there were in 2005.

In Roscommon, 81 pubs have closed since 2005. Between 2019 to 2023, 25 pubs closed their doors in Roscommon (12.6% decline in pubs during this period).

The report, including economic analysis from Economist and Associate Professor Emeritus at DCU, Anthony Foley, shows that an average of 114 pubs have closed annually over the past 18 years.

The number of closures has risen in the last ﬁve years to 144 annual closures.

Titled ‘Support Growth: A Sustainable Future for Ireland’s Drinks and Hospitality Sector’, the report includes a county-by-county breakdown of the number of pubs shuttered.

Counties Limerick (35.6%), Roscommon (31.9%), Cork (31.4%), Tipperary (31.2%) and Laois (30.6%) have seen the highest declines, each exceeding the national closure average of 24%. Seven counties experienced a decline of 30% or more in their number of pubs.

All 26 counties have experienced a decline in pub numbers since 2005. The lowest number of pub

closures over the period came in Dublin which has seen a decline of just 3% in pub numbers. Other counties with lower closures rates include Meath (6.7%), Wicklow (8.9%), Kildare (12%) and Carlow (14.2%).

This latest analysis comes on top of recently published data by the Restaurants Association of Ireland which found that 283 food-led businesses such as restaurants, cafés and gastropubs closed in the last six months of 2023, with a further 212 such businesses shuttered so far this year.

A recent survey of almost 600 pubs and restaurants, conducted as part of the DIGI report, found that

almost one in four had seen their business costs increase by 20-30% in the last two years. An additional 15% found that their business costs had increased by over 40% in the last two years.

In addition to this, the survey found that if government support, such as a cut in the excise rate was provided, it would allow the industry to sustain and grow. 23% of business owners would refurbish their business, 18% said they would hire more staff and 13% said they would invest in new offerings or services such as food or accommodation. These ﬁgures demonstrate the untapped potential of the industry.

Slimming World celebrates Emerald anniversary, with group relaunches and more

ﬂexibility

This month, Slimming World will be celebrating its Emerald Anniversary, having reached 55 years in business this year!

The milestone comes as Slimming World’s local services are being expanded, with the group in Boyle set to be relaunched next Tuesday under consultant Breanne Farrell.

Speaking about the relaunch, Breanne said, “I am absolutely delighted to be relaunching the Slimming World group in my home town of Boyle, with the ﬁrst meeting at 7 pm on Tuesday, the 10th of September in St Joseph’s Resource Centre.

“The group’s weekly meetings will provide more than just a place to track progress; they’ll be a welcoming space where members can share their experiences, celebrate victories and ﬁnd encouragement when needed.

“After the challenges of the past few years, many people are looking for ways to refocus their health and wellness. Slimming World offers a proven approach that’s not just about losing weight, but about building healthier habits, gaining conﬁdence and connecting with a supportive community”, she concluded.

In other local Slimming World news, local consultant Pauline Bliss is “delighted” to be taking over the Slimming World group in Gleeson’s in Roscommon town, which takes

for members!

place on a Wednesday morning, with groups at 7.30 am and 9.30 am.

“I am a consultant with over 12 years’ experience working with groups in Athlone, which have been awarded the prestigious Gold standard by Slimming World”, Pauline said.

“I already have a successful group in Hannon’s Hotel in Roscommon Town, which I opened two years ago. We had many members go on to lose as much as 4, 5 and 6 stone in weight, changing their lives and their health for the better!

“Slimming World has stood the test of time; it’s a common sense, healthy way of eating that the whole family can enjoy, wrapped up in a caring support system and combining individual attention and group participation. Members love that they can lose weight eating poultry, ﬁsh, lean meat, pasta, grains, potatoes, vegetables and fruit without calorie counting or obsessive weighing and measuring”.

Another local consultant, Trish Keegan, welcomed the anniversary milestone, saying, “Slimming World is celebrating 55 years in business, and I am celebrating my 6th anniversary as a consultant here in Castlerea town.

“It has been particularly wonderful in that time to see the men and women of Castlerea not just lose weight, but improve their health enormously. I have countless members who have come off blood pressure and cholesterol medicine due to our healthy eating plan and their weight loss – how wonderful is that? We get especially excited when our members reverse their type 2 diabetes and go from being sedentary to exercising every day.

“Slimming World takes into account individual needs and preferences. It is adaptable to all lifestyles and budgets and is suitable for all the family”.

Trish also noted, “Due to popular demand, I am changing my group time here in Castlerea to the earlier time of 6.30 pm on Wednesday evenings in the GAA Centre”.

To celebrate Slimming World’s emerald year, check out the Slimming World advertisement in this issue of the Roscommon People to get in touch with your local consultant and ﬁnd out what special offers are running throughout the month of September.

CAMPBELL’S BAR

Saturday 14th September:

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

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

TUESDAY

BOYLE

St Joseph’s Resource Centre 7pm

New Consultant –Breanne 086 0867377

Slimming World with Breanne @SlimmingWorldBreanne

WEDNESDAY

CASTLEREA

O’Rourke GAA Centre 6:30pm Trish 087 8581325

Slimming World Castlerea @slimwithtrishcastlerea

ROSCOMMON

Gleeson’s Restaurant & Rooms 7:30am & 9:30am

New Consultant – Pauline 087 1878701

Slimming World Roscommon @slimmingworldroscommon

THURSDAY Roscommon Hannon’s Hotel. 5:30pm & 7pm Pauline 087 1878701 – New Consultant

Slimming World Roscommon @slimmingworldroscommon

SATURDAY

STROKESTOWN Strokestown Sports and Community Centre 9:30am Breanne 086 0867377

Slimming World with Breanne @SlimmingWorldBreanne NEW CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE Call

NewsPeople

newsbriefs

Rahara Tidy Towns community night out!

Join Rahara Tidy Towns for a fun-filled night out for the entire Rahara community –taking place on Saturday, September 7th, at PJ’s Bar in Castlecoote. Enjoy delicious food by Nana Anne’s, which will be served at 8 pm, followed by live music from Celtic Crú. Everyone is welcome, but if you wish to secure your place on the bus, please contact Orla at 086 6036432.

Convent of Mercy 50th anniversary reunion

A 50th anniversary school reunion for the students of the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon (1969-1974) will take place this month. The reunion of past pupils will take place on Saturday, September 21st, in Gleeson’s Townhouse, The Square, Roscommon Town at 5 pm, after a visit to the Convent school from 2 pm to 4 pm.

Day of Retreat in Curraghboy

A Day of Retreat/Spiritual Renewal and Healing will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre in Curraghboy, Athlone (N37W704), on Saturday, September 7th Commencing at 10 am and concluding at 5 pm, the event will be led by Fr Oisín Martin of the Friars of the Renewal in Limerick. Confessions will be available from 10 am

to 1 pm and Holy Mass will commence in the afternoon. As this is a one-day retreat, please bring a packed lunch. Teas and coffee will be provided. All are most welcome to attend. If you have any enquiries, please contact 086 4054489.

Hospice Coffee Morning appeal

Mayo/Roscommon Hospice are calling for people to host a coffee morning on National Coffee Morning for Hospice, sponsored by Bewleys, on Thursday, September 26th – or on another date if that suits you better.

You can host a coffee morning/evening with family, friends, or work colleagues, or you can have a Drive-By or takeaway coffees if you wish. Anything goes!

Please register for your free pack online at hospice.ie/coffee. For more, email info@ hospice.ie or call 094 9388666. Donations are also welcome online at hospice.ie.

Please support this important event, and help raise funds for vital hospice services in the area while enjoying a coffee and a chat.

Lanesboro ICA

Lanesboro ICA Guild will hold their first meeting of the new season in the Parish Hub on Wednesday next, 11th of September, commencing with an Autumn Wreath Making Demonstration at 7 pm followed by the meeting at 8 pm. New members are very welcome.

Showcasing Roscommon to TV viewers in Germany and France

A crew from ARTE, a European TV channel which focuses on culture, is currently ﬁlming in Roscommon. They are here to capture content for two 45-minute episodes about Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Filming is supported by Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland.

The episodes will air next spring in Germany and France, as part of a programme called ARTE Découverte, which focuses on discovering different countries and landscapes by highlighting the culture and history of destinations.

Each episode has around 800,000 viewers and is also available on the ARTE streaming service, reaching a further 300,000 online viewers.

The TV crew has been ﬁlming at a number of locations, including Elphin Windmill and Strokestown Park House and Gardens.

Nadine Lehmann (Tourism Ireland’s Germany Manager) said: “Tourism Ireland was delighted to support the production of these two 45-minute episodes showcasing Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

“With around 1.1 million people in Germany and France expected to watch both episodes on the ARTE TV channel and streaming service, it’s a great way to inspire potential visitors by shining a spotlight on our rich culture, heritage and history, as well as our breathtaking landscapes.

“Publicity and broadcasts like this are a key element of Tourism Ireland’s programme of activity, to inspire travellers in Germany and France to put Ireland on their holiday wish-list”.

Murphy welcomes ‘Discovery College’ launch in Castlerea

Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the upcoming launch of Ireland’s ﬁrst ‘Discovery College’, which will take place at Castlerea CAMHS Connect on Wednesday, September 11th

“I look forward to joining Minister Mary Butler at the launch of this project, which represents a new departure for youth mental health in Ireland”, said Senator Murhpy.

“This ‘Discovery College’ is the ﬁrst of its kind in Ireland. “In launching the facility, the minister will introduce a new and innovative approach to mental health which I believe will be of great beneﬁt to all the community.

“Mental health is a priority for this Government and we are constantly striving to improve and develop how our services are being offered,” the senator concluded.

On the occasion of his recent Diamond Jubilee, Fr Francis Glennon celebrated Mass, surrounded by his family in Cloontuskert (his home place), where the celebration of his ordination to the priesthood was held 60 years ago.

Congratulations to Laoise Nic an Rí, Roscommon, who was recently awarded a First Class Honours MESL (Master of Education in School Leadership) at the August Graduation Ceremony in the University of Limerick. Laoise is Deputy Principal in Gaelscoil de hÍde, Roscommon.

Cameraman Jan-Ole Sieg pictured during filming for ARTE Découverte at Elphin Windmill.

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Sean and Marietta Higgins. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Maureen Kavanagh and Bernie Heavey. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Lisnamult Indoor Market on Sunday

Lisnamult Indoor Market will take place on Sunday, 8th of September from 11.30 am to 3 pm in Lisnamult Community Centre (F42 NN72).

The market will o er all kinds of bric a brac, clothes, hand-knitted baby cardigans, jewellery, homemade jams, handmade jewellery, etc. Also candles and soaps. There will be a stall with items that bene t cats. All very welcome.

Conversational Irish

Maidin Chaife for Improvers in Irish Language continues to meet on Wednesdays from 11 am to 12.30 pm at Rogue & Co, Main Street, Ros Comáin. All are welcome.

Town Twinning Church gate collection

Roscommon Town Twinning Committee will hold a Church gate collection at the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on this coming Saturday evening and Sunday morning, September 7th and 8th. Please support this great community initiative which gives people of all ages in our community the opportunity to get to know people from Chartrettes, France, experience their culture and share ours with them. For more information contact Noel on 087 6388590, Marie on 086 3859274 or email Rostwinning@ gmail.com

Athleague Market

Athleague Indoor and Outdoor Market will take place on Sunday, 8th of September 2024 from 10 am-3 pm in Athleague Community Centre. For enquiries, call 087 9136692. All are welcome.

Taoiseach to open 50-bed ward in Portiuncula Hospital

Senator Aisling Dolan has welcomed conﬁrmation that An Taoiseach Simon Harris will ofﬁcially open the 50-bed ward block at Portiuncula University Hospital on Wednesday, 11th of September at 10.30 am.

Senator Dolan said she had spoken to Taoiseach Harris on this matter and is delighted to be able to conﬁrm that he will perform the opening.

“Over €34 million in government investment in Portiuncula has transformed our hospital. We now have a world class building with individual ensuite rooms. This compares to the multi-bed

ward blocks where there wasn’t space for our healthcare staff to bring equipment to look after patients. This (progress) is really a wonderful achievement. This high-spec building means the highest level of patient care, ensuring better infection control, with privacy for people and their families, especially at difﬁcult times”.

Senator Dolan described Portiuncula Hospital as “the lifeblood of Ballinasloe”, a Level 3 acute and maternity teaching hospital with 24/7 ED and University of Galway and Limerick Medical Academies.

She thanked Taoiseach Simon Harris for his “incredible support for Portiuncula University Hospital” and also paid tribute to the “fantastic senior clinical management team at Portiuncula Hospital and the HSE Estates team for bringing this project to fruition”.

Senator Dolan also acknowledged the Department of Health as well as the commitment of Ann Cosgrave, and that of Tony Canavan, REO of the North North-West Regional Executive. She also noted the support over the years of former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.

Welcome! Junior Infants of Clooncagh NS in Strokestown pictured on their ﬁrst day of school!

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Our columnist Frank Brandon on his recent anniversary getaway to the Glasshouse Hotel in Sligo, a busy weekend between family visits and sporting events, Nuala Farrell-Grifﬁn’s upcoming talk on ﬁnding out ‘Who built your Country House?’, and last calls to hand in money for the St Stephen’s Day charity walk in Creggs!

Glasshouse getaway

Thursday, August 29th marked fortyfour years since Carol and myself said ‘I do’ in Kilbegnet Church.

By way of a little celebration, the pair of us headed off to Sligo town, where we had an overnight stay booked in the lovely Glasshouse Hotel. We arrived into the north-western town (although I think it’s now a city) early in the afternoon, and after going through the formalities of checking in and stuff, we headed out to explore the local shops.

The Glasshouse, which is literally smack bang in the middle of the town, couldn’t be in a better location for doing the bit of shopping. However, after a relatively short trip around the busy shopping areas, we decided to wrap up and head for a quiet afternoon (or early evening) pint in a super pub called The Swagman.

Now being a man of very thorough habits, I had done some research into the licensed premises’ close to the hotel. Two of them had stood out: the aforementioned Swagman in Wine Street, and Thomas Connolly, a bar directly across the river from the

Busy weekend of playtime and play-offs

On Friday morning, leaving the Glasshouse behind, we went on a little detour round by Castlebar to pick up our daughter Lisa’s two dogs, who were coming to visit us for the weekend. Lisa and our two grandchildren, Riley and Hayley, were also coming to us, but there wasn’t room for everything in her car and so we were given the job of transporting Panda and Rocco (her doggies) back home.

Anyway, we all arrived safely back to Creggs, where, as luck would have it, the weather was absolutely fantastic. We had some great craic with the kids out in the garden – and none of us adults needed any tablets to go to sleep on Friday night!

Saturday morning arrived, and as I was part of my brother Duff’s four-man team for the rugby club’s annual golf outing, I was out of bed at about 7.45 am, ready to burn up Roscommon Golf Club, where our tee time was 8.50 am.

Duff had shown his captain’s qualities by recruiting Richard and Steven Smyth to join our foursome, and as we lined up our opening tee shots you could see the conﬁdence coursing through our veins. I was thinking ahead to my acceptance speech at the presentation ceremony later that evening.

Sadly, despite some great scoring by the Smyth father and son duo, Duff and I were slightly short of our best (not sure what our best is), and after only nine holes I tore up my acceptance speech and headed home. Duff and the other two lads carried on and completed the eighteen holes, but I don’t think they were required to go back to the clubhouse for the prize-giving.

As undisputed captain for a number of years now, I think Duff’s position could be under threat for next year, but I suppose, for now, like Ten Hag, he will get the dreaded vote of conﬁdence.

Anyway, we had great fun, the course was immaculate, and we gave it our best shot (a lot of them in my case) and thoroughly enjoyed the morning’s activity.

As it happened, that was not my only sporting event in Roscommon that day, because later on that evening I was back in the superb Roscommon Gaels development in Lisnamult, where our local Creggs football team were going head-tohead with our neighbours Fuerty in an Intermediate football championship game. Now we were well aware going in that Fuerty are among the favourites to win out the competition. And in the ﬁnish, they were value for their hard-earned win

Glasshouse, which has stood as a pub since 1780.

Anyway, The Swagman ended up being closest to our location, so after our shopping trip – and just after 5.30 pm – we wandered into the surprisingly busy establishment.

I suppose I shouldn’t have been too surprised at how busy it was; all the reviews I had read about it were more than complimentary. And I have to say our short visit certainly reinforced the view that if you ever ﬁnd yourself in Sligo, a visit to The Swagman is not to be missed!

However, as good as the place was (and the Guinness was top class), what really made our visit was a meeting we had with staff member Josh, who was the spitting image of our nephew Matthew! If I didn’t know that Matthew was in Sydney, I would surely have asked him when he started work in The Swagman!

We had dinner booked in the Glasshouse for half past six, and so we only had time for the one drink (and a couple of photos with Josh) before we headed back to our hotel room to get ready for our meal. And I can

– although the seven-point winning margin certainly ﬂattered them. It was only in the last ten minutes or so that they pulled away from a slightly unfortunate Creggs team.

Fortune certainly hasn’t favoured us since either, as we now have to try and beat a very formidable St Brigid’s team in a provisional quarter-ﬁnal ﬁxture. And if we do win that one, either Strokestown or Elphin will be next up. You could hardly imagine a worse draw.

At the same time, Saturday evening’s game was enjoyable, with some good football on display from both sides. But in the end, the warm favourites prevailed, and they will now fancy their chances of going all the way. As for us, we have to lick our wounds and get ready for a tilt at the Kiltoom men in a match that is ﬁxed for two weeks’ time.

After the game there was a farewell ‘do’ in Mikeen’s for one of our players, John Keegan, who is headed down to Sydney, where he will meet up with a lot of Creggs locals, including his cousin Noel Gately, my two nieces Niamh and Aoife, and my aforementioned nephew Matthew. Keego is one of the good guys, and we all wish him well on his trip down under.

only say that the food, the staff, the service, and the location of the dining room overlooking the fast-ﬂowing Garavogue river (I hope that’s right as I am going on the geography I learned more than 50 years ago) was simply superb; we couldn’t have asked for anything better.

After dinner (and the compulsory old age rest), we didn’t have the energy to go over to Thomas Connolly, and so our visit to that old establishment must wait until some future date. But we did spend some decent time in the hotel bar, where the Guinness fortunately lived up to the very high standard that had been set.

Sadly, we were only there for the one night, but the breakfast the following morning was similarly excellent. Hopefully we will get back again, and this time we will make it our business to pay a visit to Thomas Connolly. Anyway, It was a thoroughly enjoyable stay in Sligo, and all I can say is we couldn’t have had a better fortyfourth wedding anniversary. I used to think 44 years was a long time, but the truth is it seems like yesterday! I must be getting old.

Nuala Farrell-Gri n

Who built your country house?

Onto local matters and local history: Larry Kilcommins tells me that on next Thursday, September 12th, there will be a talk by Nuala Farrell-Grifﬁn at 8.30 pm in the Heritage Centre in Creggs, titled ‘Who built your country house?’.

Explaining how to go about researching the history of your country house online, this free presentation is based on the resources Nuala used to write her eagerly-awaited forthcoming book about Kilbegnet House, which has now been restored to its original magniﬁcence. There may be more local history secrets to be discovered, so get to the Heritage Centre and learn how to uncover the history of the old country house you may live in, and its previous occupants.

8.30 pm on Thursday, September 12th – don’t forget!

And ﬁnally…

I have been asked by Mikeen O’Roarke to remind anyone that still has money for the St Stephen’s Day Walk to get it in to him in the next few days. It’s time to distribute the funds to the various recipients, so please get anything you have in to Mikeen as soon as possible this week. We won’t feel it until it’s time to go up, down, and round the mountain again!

’Til next week, bye for now

Glasshouse Hotel, Sligo

Teagasc National Beef Walk to be hosted in Ballinlough

 CATHERINE EGAN

TEAGASC CATTLE SPECIALIST

On Wednesday, 11th of September at 6 pm Shane and Grainne Keaveney, Ballybane, Ballinlough, Co Roscommon (F45 W599) will host a National Future Beef farm walk.

Shane farms with his wife Gráinne and three children. They operate a suckling to ﬁnishing system with bulls ﬁnished under 16 months and heifers that are not kept as replacements sold as stores. This was not always the case, as Shane previously operated a suckling to weanling system.

“Over the past number of years I have increased my cow numbers from 5 to 37 cows calving last spring” said Shane. Shane joined the Future Beef programme back in 2021 and has made many changes to his system since.

Most of the soil on the farm is heavy in nature. There is a mixture of clay and peat soils. All the slurry on the farm is spread with a low emission system.

The cows run with a bull and this has changed to a Charolais bull three years ago. Shane is measuring grass and is set up on Pasture-

Base. He is a member of the local beef grass group and this has helped him a lot with making decisions on paddocks, fertiliser, reseeding, etc.

Future Beef advisor Gabriel Trayers said: “I have been working with Shane for the last number of years. He has made huge improvements in the breeding performance on the farm and is hitting all the key performance indicators.

“Shane has targeted to reduce the age of slaughter by pushing the bull weanlings earlier and by feeding a high quality red clover silage over the winter. In addition, Shane has adopted simple actions to reduce harmful emissions by switching to protected urea, applying slurry using LESS and reducing the chemical fertiliser overall”.

Shane is also involved with Social Farming Ireland. Social farming provides people who use services with the opportunity for inclusion, to increase self-esteem and to improve health and well-being by taking part in day to day farm activities on the farm. Producing heavy, quality weanlings is a key part to Shane’s farming system. This will be discussed in

detail at the walk along with the farm’s physical and ﬁnancial performance.

In 2023 Shane started growing red clover silage. The establishment and management of red clover will be discussed at the walk.

Shane’s farm is located in the Island River catch-

ment which is also within a Priority Area for Action (PAA) and eligible for European Innovation Partnership (EIP) funding.

Kieran Kenny (Teagasc ASSAP advisor) will highlight the water quality measures implemented on this farm. John Kelly from the Waters of Life project

will outline their signiﬁcant plan for the catchment in supporting additional measures and the opportunities for local farmers.

The Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (or ASSAP) is a free and conﬁdential advisory service for farmers. The aim of the programme is to support farmers to implement actions that help improve water quality in their local catchment.

The Beef Market Outlook will be discussed by Brendan Egan, Castlerea Livestock Mart Manager, and Anthony O’Dowd from Dawn Meats. There will be a number of industry stakeholders available to meet and discuss any queries you may have. Refreshments will be served. The focus of the event will be ‘Opportunities in Suckler Farming’ by increasing sustainability through improving breeding, soil fertility, water quality and incorporating red clover.

*Further information is available at www.teagasc.ie

I would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported me on my rose journey to Tralee. To my family, friends & neighbours who sent well wishes, cards, calls & texts and who travelled down to support me in the Dome, it is very much appreciated.

To all my sponsors, thank you so much for your generosity & support. I can’t thank you all enough.

It has been an unforgettable journey and I am so looking forward to the experiences

Catherine Egan, Teagasc Cattle Specialist

North East Galway Fit-Up Theatre Festival returns

Three Rings – the North East Galway Fit-Up Theatre Festival – is back for its fourth year, running from September 24th to October 13th. Over three weeks, six rural villages will host three high-quality theatre productions every Tuesday to Saturday at 8 pm.

The Fit-Up Festival is based on the old ‘Fit-Ups’ which were at their height of popularity in the 1930s, 40s and 50s, when theatre companies travelled around Ireland performing in makeshift venues.

The resurrection of the FitUp model began in West Cork in 2009, expanding to northeast Galway in 2021 with the Three Rings festival. The goal is to build new audiences for contemporary theatre in remote rural communities while offering touring opportunities for Ireland’s best theatre makers, writers and performers.

This year, Three Rings, in collaboration with Galway County Council Arts Ofﬁce and the Arts Council, will present three plays across six venues.

Opening this year’s three-week festival is a performance called ‘Nettle Horse’ by Little John Nee – award-winning writer, performer, storyteller, and musician. Written, directed, and performed by Little John, ‘Net-

tle Horse’ is an enchanting piece that combines storytelling, music played by the performer on twenty instruments with loop pedals, and a point of view that is enticing, engaging and entertaining.

In the second week of the festival, enjoy the hilarious and heart-warming play ‘Seven Ages of MAM’, starring Pauline O’Driscoll (Smalltown, The Young Offenders). This poignant performance explores themes of motherhood, sexuality, grief, and more.

For the festival’s ﬁnal week, the Three Rings present Colin Hamell’s play Bumbled, directed by Carmel O’Reilly. Touring from October 8th to 13th, this hilarious and poignant oneperson show follows Pascal, an Irish honey bee, on his quest to highlight the importance of bees, save the planet, and ﬁnd love with his French girlfriend, Marion.

This year’s North East Gal-

Teagasc

way Fit Up Festival tour will include performances in venues at Skehana Community Hall (Tuesdays: September 24th, and October 1st and 8th), Newbridge Community Centre (Wednesdays: September 25th, and October 2nd and 9th), Kilbegnet Hall in Creggs (Thursdays: September 26th, and October 3rd and 10th), Fohenagh Hall (Fridays: September 27th, and October 4th and 11th), Dunmore Town Hall (Saturdays: September 28th, and October 5th and 12th), and Barnadearg Community Centre (Sundays: September 29th, and October 6th and 13th), with all performances taking place at 8 pm each night. For bookings and further information, call 087 9677732 or 087 2372820. Tickets are priced at €15/€12.50 and season tickets (all three plays) are €40. More information at ﬁt-uptheatrefestival.com and the Three Rings Facebook page.

Lack of advanced paramedics slammed

away with trying to quietly strip this away. I will not allow them to.

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Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/ Galway Claire Kerrane has once again raised concerns over the potential severe consequences arising from the lack of advanced paramedics in Roscommon.

Having again raised the issue with the Minister for Health and the Director of the National Ambulance Service, Deputy Kerrane said, “In the last month, roughly, of the 140 ambulance shifts, 131 had no advanced paramedic present. This is unacceptable.

“This is a disservice to the good men and women of the

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Closing date for applicants is 18th September 2024, at 12 noon

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“In the same period of the roughly 56 shifts on the Rapid Response Vehicle, 31 of these were not covered by an advanced paramedic. The advanced paramedic is the only trained ambulance personnel that can provide advanced life support. This is critical.

“The lack of an advanced paramedic on a shift puts paramedics under incredible pressure; it is unfair and it should not be happening.

“Once again: the people of Roscommon were promised an advanced paramedic on a 24/7 basis when the A&E closed. The HSE and this Government will not get

Roscommon Town

Are continually expanding and now require

Are continually expanding and now require CNC Operator

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National Ambulance Service in Roscommon Town and it is a disservice to the people of Roscommon”, she concluded.

No country for young people?

Let’s talk about

IRELAND’S RECORD

In his famous poem ‘Sailing to Byzantium’, an aging W B Yeats declares Ireland “no country for old men”: “therefore I have sailed the seas”.

Flashing forward a century, such sentiment appears to have lived on – with one major ﬂip. Today, many believe Ireland is more accurately ‘no country for young people’.

Between the various push and pull factors at play, a significant portion of Ireland’s young people appear disillusioned with opportunities at home. In fact, CSO figures reveal they too feel they must ‘therefore sail the seas’ to greener pastures; the country recently recorded the highest emigration figures in almost 20 years (just under half being classified as young people), with a 126% increase in people emigrating to Australia in the year alone.

Ireland’s diaspora is nothing new, of course. In fact, it has an integral part in the retelling of several periods of our history. But it is also, crucially, and as we are beginning to see more and more, far from a thing of old either. What perhaps is new (or at least refreshed) are the reasons why.

Working doesn’t work

There will be no gold stars for guessing the major suspects behind rising emigration. They are, after all, the same ones those of us still living here are also struggling with: the high cost of living and housing crisis.

Things get more expensive over time, that’s how it is. But the problem is what hasn’t risen alongside rent and expenses – wages.

If emigration is traditionally tied to the idea of leaving to ﬁnd work, it appears the problem today has morphed into something slightly different, but similarly unworkable: that even working full-time mightn’t keep your head above water – it may not even keep your head on a pillow at night.

Between grocery inﬂation, energy prices, and just about everything else, it has become increasingly difﬁcult to manage the most basic of expenses. Recent measures – particularly within the last Budget – have indeed been

aimed at easing the suffocating burden, but it’s far from a long-term fix. And (though I could be being a bit prematurely cynical) this year’s Budget seems set to focus more on winning the middle-class vote ahead of the General Election, than on being a ‘giveaway Budget’ for those struggling financially – a group which, among other demographics, includes a significant proportion of young people. Meanwhile, the housing crisis barrels on, reaching new heights of incredulity and, to be frank, unsustainability. Finding a place to live is increasingly difficult; sidestepping entirely factors like the mass migration of available properties over to sites like AirBnB, whatever places are available have exorbitant price tags attached. Anecdotally, over a few short years in Galway, I’ve seen properties in the same estates balloon by several hundred euro –sometimes even doubling.

One need only look at another set of recentlypublished ﬁgures – this time by the Department of Housing – to see the absolute breaking point

we’ve reached. Last Friday, it was revealed the number of homeless people has reached yet another record: 14,429. This is, of course, the most extreme and worst-case scenario for people affected by the housing crisis, but it’s evidently a scenario that’s becoming less and less rare, and more and more likely for the average person to ﬁnd themselves in.

For those young people who are unable to ﬁnd/afford a place to live, they must instead rely on loved ones to help them out so that they don’t join that 14k ﬁgure – and that’s exactly what they’re doing.

The 2022 Census revealed 41% of people aged between 18 and 34, and 33% of people aged between 25 and 29, live with their parents. And such people will tell you quite simply (although they may also really enjoy their folks’ company) it’s because there’s nowhere else to go.

Where in other periods, Ireland’s youth moved to ﬁnd a place to work, now they’re moving to ﬁnd a place to live.

What’s Where’s the craic?

There are also social and cultural reasons Ireland may seem less appealing to young people. Politically, we’ve become increasing divided over so-called culture war issues, such as queer rights and immigration. Coupled with all that’s to be said about the far-right in recent times, it’s easy for a young person to worry Ireland is becoming a less tolerant and progressive place.

Additionally, we sometimes seem to lack in ‘third places’ (social spaces separate from home and work), which are incredibly important in terms of providing neutral, informal spaces to gather and build community.

The closest thing we have to a de facto ‘third place’ is the pub. An increasingly expensive and, in excess, not particularly healthy way to spend your evenings. But even the option of having the pub to socialise in can’t be relied on – restaurant and pub closures too have accelerated.

And it’s not as if we can use outdoor areas as social spaces year-round; you wouldn’t even have been able to count on them over the summer this year, with the poor weather we had.

We’re also a country whose social practices have been so intrinsically linked with the Church for so long, that as we begin to move away from it, we are left having to reinvent the ways we practice community and socialisation; if Sunday mornings are no longer for the weekly village reunion, when is?

And although not exclusive to Ireland, technology has a lot to answer for too. It has become common practice for much of modern socialisation to be done online or via calls (the smartphone, in some ways, is the new ‘third place’). Even work – the ‘second place’ – has moved online for many. Online work or socialisation are far from negative things unto themselves, but when coupled with everything else, you can see why some people are feeling unsatisﬁed.

Going forward (but not aboard)… Ireland has all the bones of being a wonderful country for young people. We do have resources, we do have vibrant communities, and we do have massive potential for growth – it just needs to be realised.

Prioritising affordable housing and a liveable wage, and investing in and diversifying our social spaces could make a world of difference in making Ireland more appealing – not just for the young people with the opportunity to emigrate, but for everyone.

After all, surely, out of any country, Ireland has the potential to offer ‘greener’ pastures?

€336,000?

On yer bike…

Perhaps the only bit of scandal to be receiving the same level of tut-tutting from the general public at the proverbial water cooler this week, apart from the country’s infuriation with Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing of Oasis reunion tickets over the weekend, revolves around Leinster House’s new bike shed. Looking at it, you would be forgiven for wondering why on earth such a modest piece of infrastructure has been able to stir up such discontent for the government within the public. After all, surely politicians need a place to park their bikes, surely increasing the accessibility of transport options like cycling –which carry the double beneﬁts of being environmentally conscious and good for getting in daily exercise – is something to be encouraged and welcomed.

The minor snafu arises in how much this modest bike shelter managed to cost… a whopping €336,000. Even the Taoiseach himself has described this price tag as “inexcusable” – and too right. For that price, you could nearly afford a dynamically-priced Oasis ticket.

Alannah Ita Healy

(A student’s perspective)

EMIGRATION

Leinster House’s new bike shed

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were committee members and volunteers. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Martin Shiel (Strokestown Show Treasurer), Anthony Geoghegan of Roscommon Sheep Breeders Association, sponsors Jack Beirne and Dylan Cronin of Corby Rock Mill, John Farrell (Roscommon Sheep Breeders Association) and Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne.

Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne, and John McMahon, James Duke, Paul Fahy and Tommy Gormley (Roscommon Charolais Society).

Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Countdown to 156th Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show

 EMMETT CORCORAN

The 156th annual Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show will take place on Saturday, 14th of September, at the picturesque grounds of Strokestown Park House. This year’s show promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with a total prize fund of €80,000 and an expected attendance exceeding 5,000 visitors.

During the recent ofﬁcial launch of the show, Chairperson John O’Beirne addressed a large gathering of sponsors, supporters, stewards, committee members, and exhibitors.

Among the attendees were representatives from several pedigree cattle societies, including the Shorthorn, Limousin, Hereford, Simmental, and Charolais societies. A particular highlight will be the National Simmental Calf Finals, which are sure to draw signiﬁcant interest. As has been the case in recent years, Strokestown will host a number of AllIreland ﬁnals in the cattle classes, including the Angus Finals with a prize fund of €13,000.

Mr O’Beirne expressed his gratitude to all sponsors and exhibitors, extending special thanks to the Callery family, the custo-

dians of Strokestown Park House, for once again providing a beautiful setting for one of “Ireland’s best agricultural events”.

In addition to the traditional cattle and equine competitions, the show offers an array of attractions designed to entertain the entire family. The popular dog show, featuring 23 classes and a prize fund of €1,000, is set to return.

The sheep section, another key element of the show, will be larger than ever, with classes for Commercial, Suffolk, Texel, and Charolais breeds, alongside four dedicated classes for the native Roscommon breeds.

This year, the show will again feature a wide range

of artisan displays under marquees, showcasing farm and garden produce, ﬂowers, turf, cookery, honey, eggs, jam, handicrafts, amateur photography, and art. A highlight of recent years, the food fair – entitled ‘Flavours from the Heart of Ireland’ – will also return, promising to be bigger and better than ever, thanks to the efforts of Margaret Jordan and the show’s extended committee.

Attendees can look forward to cookery demonstrations from an impressive line-up of chefs, including Brian McDer- mott of RTÉ’s The Afternoon Show and Daniel Willimont (Executive Chef at Kilronan Castle). See

separate item for more details.

The show will also feature commercial stands with machinery and local business exhibits, alongside the ever-popular display from the Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club, which will include cars, tractors, and a working steamroller – a delightful attraction for younger visitors. Amusements for children will be available, including free face-painting and hairbraiding, although a small charge will apply to some activities, reﬂecting the costs involved.

Live music will add to the festivities, with a dance ﬂoor available for those wishing to enjoy the day’s entertainment provided by

many returning acts. It has recently been announced that country music legend Robert Mizzell will headline the event, much to the excitement of his many fans.

All in all, the Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show 2024 promises to be a day ﬁlled with fun and entertainment for all ages. With an entry fee of just €15 per adult (€25 for couples) and free admission for children, it is an event not to be missed.

Mr O’Beirne concluded by expressing his sincere thanks to all supporters over the years, particularly their main sponsors, including the Callery, Hanly, and Sweeney families, among many others.

Pictured at the recent launch of Strokestown Agricultural Show were John O’Beirne (committee chairperson), Dermot Kilcrann (Irish Angus Society), Oliver Flanagan (Irish Angus Society), Padraig O’Connor (Irish Angus Society), Kevin Di ey (Irish Angus Society), John Farrell (Irish Angus Society), Sean Kilkelly (Irish Angus Society), Allen Dolan (Strokestown Show joint Secretary) and (front) Yvonne Brady and Patsy He ernan of the Irish Angus Society. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Strokestown Vice-Chairperson Padraic Holmes, Bláithin and Tony Stevenson of sponsors Sweeney family/Chasetown Civil Engineering, and Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Major ﬁnals in cattle classes

EMMETT CORCORAN



The cattle section at this year’s Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring a range of prestigious competitions and substantial prize funds.

A major highlight of the event will be the All-Ireland Beef Bullock Final, generously sponsored to the value of €6,000 by the Sweeney family from Corrigeen.

Speaking at the show’s recent launch, Chairperson John O’Beirne extended heartfelt thanks to the Sweeney family for their continued support and sponsorship in recent years. The Sweeney family is also sponsoring the All-Ireland Breeding Heifer Class with an additional €2,000 in prize-money.

In addition, the Greenvale Animal Feeds All-Ireland Beef Heifer Final will be a key attraction, with prizemoney of €3,000. The Angus Society, long-time supporters of the Strokestown Show, will again be hosting their All-Ireland Finals at the event, offering a substantial prize fund of €13,000.

This year, the Irish Simmental Society has chosen Strokestown Show to host all of their All-Ireland Finals, further enhancing the prestige of the event. Another key competition will be the Irish Shorthorn Premium Beef Bull Championship, sponsored by the Shorthorn Marketing Company Limited, with a prize fund of €1,200. The show will also feature the €17,000 Irish Draught Classes, and the €12,000 Strokestown Park Irish Draught Broodmare All-Ireland Championship, and the €5,000 Registered Irish Draught classes, sponsored by the Callery family.

Mr O’Beirne also noted that the show will feature

a wide variety of pedigree cattle, including Charolais, Limousin, Hereford, Shorthorn, and Simmental breeds. The National Simmental Calf Finals will be among the most anticipated events of the day. Additionally, the show will present the Breeders’ Choice Award and a section for traditional fourstar and ﬁve-star breeding

heifers, sponsored by the Department of Agriculture and the Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue.

This year’s show will also include four All-Ireland Calf Classes, sponsored by Hanly’s Hardware and Eurospar Supermarket, with a total prize fund of €1,600.

The Champion Calf of the Show will receive €200,

while the Reserve Champion will be awarded €100.

Mr O’Beirne expressed his gratitude for the continued support of the Hanly family, who are wellknown business and community ﬁgures in Strokestown.

Former Fine Gael county councillor and former Chairperson and Secretary of the Show, Sean

Beirne was in attendance on the night and received a round of applause from the crowd.

The cattle section at this year’s Strokestown Show is set to be a remarkable showcase of some of Ireland’s ﬁnest livestock, with competitions and prizes that are sure to draw significant interest from exhibitors and spectators alike.

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne, Martin Shiel (Strokestown Show Treasurer), Padraig Flanagan and Noel Bohan of the Irish Shorthorn Society, Strokestown Show Vice-Chairperson Padraic Holmes, and Allen Dolan, Strokestown Show joint Secretary. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Allen Dolan (Strokestown Show joint Secretary), Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne, sponsor Enda Hanly from Hanly Quarries, and Cormac Dolan, Strokestown Show joint Secretary. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent launch of Strokestown Agricultural Show were Sinead and Michael Conry (Rathnollag Herefords, Roscommon), Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne and Padraig and Catherine McGrath, Kye Herefords, Elphin, Co Roscommon. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Top quality horse classes to be a highlight of Show

 EMMETT CORCORAN

On Saturday, 14th of September, the Horse Show at the Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show will take centre stage, showcasing 17 different classes.

One of the key events this year is the Tom Rogers Irish Draught Class, which boasts a prize fund of €500, with nine classes in total in this category. The committee has also increased the prize-money for each class to €230.

The highlight of this year’s Horse Show, held in the grounds of Strokestown Park, will undoubtedly be the Irish Draught Broodmare All-Ireland Championship with Foal at Foot.

Sponsored by Jim Callery and his family, this prestigious class

offers a generous first prize of €6,000. The runner-up will receive €3,000, third place €1,500, fourth place €700, fifth place €500, and sixth place €300. According to the Show Committee, this competition is regarded as the most significant broodmare classes in Ireland.

In addition to the All-Ireland Championship, the Callery family has also sponsored a range of other classes, including the Irish Draught Yearling Colt, Yearling Filly, Twoand Three-Year-Old Filly, the Colt Foal, and the Filly Foal, with a prize fund of €1,000 allocated for each of these categories. Altogether, the Callery family’s sponsorship for this year’s show amounts to a very impressive €17,000.

Speaking at the recent launch, Strokestown Show Chairperson

John O’Beirne praised the Callery family’s exceptional contribution: “Year after year, the Callery family not only offer the grounds of the stunning Strokestown Park House to host the show, but they have also consistently sponsored it with immense generosity”.

This year, the show’s equine programme has expanded even further, with the introduction of new classes, increasing the total number of pony classes to 20. The Registered Connemara Pony section is sponsored by Tony and Bláithin Stevenson.

Mr O’Beirne concluded by expressing his gratitude to the Callery family, the Westward Group, and the management and staff of Strokestown Park House for their ongoing hospitality and sup-

port. He noted that without their backing, the show could not have grown to its current scale, which now attracts over 5,000 attendees annually.

The equine section of this year’s Strokestown Show is truly remarkable, with a host of exciting events on offer.

Aside from the impressive equine competitions, the 2024 Strokestown Show promises to be a memorable event. From cattle and sheep to ponies and dogs, alongside a food fair, vintage motor show, industrial and commercial exhibits, family entertainment, and a fantastic musical line-up headlined by Irish country music legend Robert Mizzell, this year’s show is expected to be the best yet.

Mizzell heads bill as great entertainment lined up

 EMMETT CORCORAN

It has been announced in recent days that country music legend Robert Mizzell is set to take to the stage at this year’s Strokestown Show. In addition to a number of other returning popular acts, Mizzell will entertain the crowds throughout the course of show day.

According to the Strokestown Show Committee Facebook page, there will be a €500 prize for the best jiving skills on display, so the committee are appealing to music and dancing fans to get their dancing shoes on and take to the dance ﬂoor.

Adding to the already exceptional musical entertainment, this year’s show will again host the

Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club. The club will be present on the day with a wide array of vintage cars, tractors and machinery. The highlight of the Vintage Club showcase this year is set to be a working steamroller which is likely to be particularly interesting for younger attendees.

Speaking at the recent launch in the Percy French Hotel, Show Chairperson John O’Beirne thanked all current and past committee members, paying particular tribute to former members Sean Beirne and Mary Caldwell. Noting the importance of “moving with the times”, Mr O’Beirne thanked all committee members both new and not so new for their Trojan work in organising what he says is “one of the best shows in the country”.

“Without our committee, sponsors, exhibitors, stewards, and attendees, the show wouldn’t have survived for the last 156 years”.

According to Mr O’Beirne, the annual Strokestown Show has grown signiﬁcantly over recent years with a great diversity of attractions that ensures there’s something for everyone.

“Moving and changing with the times is key to the survival of the show and the large, hardworking and extremely dedicated committee are to thank for their innovative ideas and drive”.

He added: “All our sponsors have to be thanked for their support… every year all we have to do is pick up the phone and they have always come through with sponsorship in good times and in bad”.

Pictured at the recent launch of Strokestown Agricultural Show were Padraig and Catherine McGrath, Kye Herefords, Elphin, Co Roscommon. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent launch of Strokestown Agricultural Show were Allen Dolan (Strokestown Show Joint Secretary), Martin Shiel (Strokestown Show Treasurer), Anthony Geoghegan, John Farrell and Fergus Mo att (all of Roscommon Sheep Breeders Association) and Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent launch of Strokestown Agricultural Show were John O’Beirne (Show Chairperson), Cormac Dolan, David Dolan, Padraic Holmes, Martin Shiel, Allen Dolan and (front) Margaret Kelly and Gemma Flanagan. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

7th Annual Flavours From the Heart of Ireland

Food and Drinks Fair a big feature of Show

EMMETT CORCORAN



On Saturday, 14th of September, the 7th Annual Flavours From the Heart of Ireland Food and Drinks Fair will take place at the Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show. This is the longest consecutively running show in Ireland (with the forced exception of the two years of Covid restrictions).

Strokestown Show has evolved signiﬁcantly over the years. This Food and Drinks Fair aspect of the day began in 2016 with 19 exhibitors on that occasion. This year, the fair will be hosted beneath a 150 footlong marquee and has now grown to almost 50 exhibitors.

Chairperson of Strokestown Show, John O’Beirne,

thanked the sub-committee, led by Strokestown local culinary legend Margaret Jordan, at the recent launch of the Strokestown Show, which was held in the Percy French Hotel.

“The popularity and success of the event, which is entering its 7th year, wouldn’t be possible without the hard work of the entire committee, and it has been a fantastic attraction”.

The fair will include cookery demonstrations from a variety of celebrity chefs, including Brian McDermott, a celebrated culinary ﬁgure from Donegal, best known for his presentations on RTÉ’s The Afternoon Show. He is renowned for his dedication to promoting local Irish cuisine. Known as ‘The No Salt Chef,’ McDermott has made a name

for himself by focusing on heart-healthy cooking, particularly after his own health scare prompted him to remove salt from his diet.

Daniel Willimont, Executive Chef at the acclaimed North Roscommon hotel, Kilronan Castle, will be returning to Strokestown for this year’s food fair, and the organisers are delighted that he is doing so.

After the success of winning Best Product in 2018, Kieron Moran from Moran’s Mega Jam will take to the stage once again in Strokestown to speak about the art of making some of the ﬁnest jams in Ireland.

Another well-known face around Strokestown, Adrian Gill, will also showcase some of his famous recipes on the Food Fair stage

this year. Lorraine Aspill from Daisy Cottage (Farm) Crafts will also return this year to demonstrate how to make brown bread, as well as some other favourites.

At the launch of the show,

Mr O’Beirne also thanked Timea Kovacs of Healthy Bake Ltd, as well as Vinny Meldrum and Lisa Vocella of Vocella’s Restaurant in Longford, for agreeing to showcase some of their

specialities at this year’s fair.

In addition to a wide range of food exhibitors, there will be a number of local and national drink exhibitors (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) showcasing their wares. Mr O’Beirne quipped that this year will feature a poitín exhibitor, noting with a smile that it was the “legal” sort of poitín.

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Strokestown Show Treasurer Martin Shiel, Strokestown Show Vice-Chairperson Padraic Holmes, Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne, sponsor Cormac Dolan from Greenvale Animal Feeds, and Allen Dolan, Strokestown Show joint Secretary. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French were Padraic Holmes (Strokestown Show Vice-Chairperson), Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne, Cllr Tom Crosby, Cllr Sean Moylan, Senator Eugene Murphy, Allen Dolan (Strokestown Show joint Secretary), Pauline Crosby and Cllr Valerie Byrne. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French were Cllr Sean Moylan and former councillor and long-time show activist Sean Beirne. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Martin Shiel (Strokestown Show Treasurer), Cillian Lynch, Ciaran Lynch (Elphin Mart Manager) and Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Cllr Tom Crosby and Pauline Crosby. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Tony and Bláithin Stevenson of sponsors Sweeney family/Chasetown Civil Engineering, and Senator Eugene Murphy. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent Strokestown Show launch in the Percy French Hotel were Strokestown Show Chairperson John O’Beirne, Strokestown Show Vice-Chairperson Padraic Holmes, John Gilmore and Seamus McTague of sponsors Emlagh Lodge Veterinary Centre, and Cormac Dolan, Strokestown Show joint Secretary. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

What’s on at the Show?

• The €6,000 All-Ireland Beef Bullock Championship Sponsored by The Sweeney Family, Corrigeen

• The €3,000 Greenvale Animal Feeds All-Ireland Beef Heifer Championship

• The €13,000 Irish Angus All-Ireland Finals

• The €2,000 All-Ireland Breeding Heifer Sponsored by Chasetown Engineering Ltd (Sweeney Family, Corrigeen)

• Irish Shorthorn All-Ireland Finals

• The €3,000 Irish Simmental All-Ireland Finals

• Hanly’s Hardware & Eurospar Supermarket All-Ireland Calf Classes with €1,600 in prizemoney

• The €17,000 Irish Draught Classes

• €12,000 Strokestown Park Irish Draught Broodmare All-ireland Championship

• €5,000 Registered Irish Draught classes Sponsored by by the Callery Family

• Horse Showing and Pony Showing 12 p.m.

• Spectacular Dog Show (2 Rings) at 1.00 p.m.

• Showing Classes for horses, cattle, sheep dogs, crafts, cookery, farm & garden produce

Showgrounds open at 8a.m. Exhibits must be in the showgrounds by 10 a.m. Judging commences 10.30a.m. sharp

Admission to Show: €15/Couples €25

The ﬁnancial survival of the Show depends on our gate receipts from your gate receipts. Please help us by contributing your share. All except children must pay on the gate.

... along with Daniel Willimont from Kilronan Castle; Adrian Gill, Lorraine Aspill, Timea Kovacs Gluten Free Baking; Vinny Meldrum and Lisa Vocella, The Red Bank Restaurant, Carrick-on-Shannon, along with numerous Artisan Producers COMMENCING 11a.m.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

‘In These Rooms’ exhibition opens in Boyle

Roscommon County Council, with support from Creative Ireland Funding, is proud to present ‘In These Rooms’, a new exhibition by acclaimed artist Greer MacKeogh. The exhibition ofﬁcially opened on August 31, 2024, at An Ríoga in Boyle and will run until Sunday September 15th.

The exhibition is open to the public on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 11 am to 4 pm and again on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 6 pm.

Greer’s research, conversations and artistic response have spanned eight years and various phases of the Royal Hotel’s ﬁnal years including its recent restoration and renovation by Roscommon County

Council under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund.

Opened last year as An Ríoga, a multi-functional building, it is fantastic to see an exhibition of this calibre in the impressive dedicated Gallery space.

‘In These Rooms’ invites visitors on a contemplative journey through space, memory, and human connection. MacKeogh’s latest work explores themes of identity and belonging, using a range of media that captures both the familiar and the elusive. Drawing on her distinct style, the exhibition presents a deeply personal yet universally resonant experience.

The opening event was a resounding success, bringing together art enthusiasts,

local community members, and representatives of Roscommon County Council.

The exhibition was celebrated for its thoughtprovoking installations and MacKeogh’s unique artistic vision. Attendees were given an exclusive preview of the artworks and an opportunity to engage with the artist herself, who spoke passionately about the inspiration and creative process behind her latest work.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice congratulated Greer MacKeogh saying “In These Rooms is a meticulous and very interesting exhibition, which I know will be of great interest to the people of Boyle and beyond,

in particular those who shared their stories about love, work, social and community occasions”.

Greer MacKeogh has garnered critical acclaim for her ability to capture the intricacies of human emotion and experience. Her work has been described as evocative, layered, and rich with narrative, offering

viewers a chance to reﬂect on their own stories within the spaces she creates. Roscommon County Council is delighted to support this exhibition as part of its ongoing commitment to fostering creativity and cultural expression within the community, made possible through the Creative Ireland Programme.

Call for Bard of Connacht entries

A call has been put out to the Bards of Ireland to take part in the third Bard of Connacht competition, which has a prize fund of €1,000 and is run in conjunction with Creggs Harvest Festival and Kilbegnet Ballinakill Historical Society.

The theme for this year’s Bard Competition is ‘Loneliness’. Recent surveys have pointed to the increasing prevalence of loneliness in an Ireland that is more connected than ever, and organisers have chosen this as the subject theme for this year’s poems. There is also another connection as this year is the 170th anniversary of the birth of Percy French and the line which inspired the theme came from the Co Roscommon author’s poem ‘An Irish Mother’: “But ‘tis lonely – lonely livin’/When the childher is away”.

Now in its third year, the competition is organised by Kilbegnet Ballinakill Historical Society, Creggs, Co Galway, and draws entries from all across Ireland as well as having an international following. As well as the adult competition, there is also a Junior Bard competition involving local Transition Year students, and this has prompted many teenagers to take up the art of poetry.

The winner of this year’s Bard of Connacht will receive the Vincent Keaveny Memorial Trophy and a cheque for €500, while second, third, and fourth placed poets will receive €250, €150 and €100.

Poets are invited to submit one entry of less than 400 words to bardofconnacht@gmail.com and all entries must be received by Monday, September 30th, at 5 pm. A judging panel will then select the ten best entries, four of which will be winners. All entries must be original and there is no entry fee.

Composers of the ten best entries will be invited to attend an event in Creggs during the Harvest Festival and recite their poem. The ﬁve prize-winners will be announced at that event and the prizes will be presented.

For further information, please contact Larry Kilcommins (Secretary, Kilbegnet Ballinakill Historical Society) on 086 3468761 or email bardofconnacht@gmail.com.

‘Work

One-man Oscar Wilde play

for Arts Centre

‘Work is the Curse of the Drinking Classes’ – a one-man play starring Will Govan and written by Neil Titley will be performed at Roscommon Arts Centre on Thursday, September 12th (8 pm).

In a play which is set in Paris in 1898, Will Govan plays an exiled Oscar Wilde looking back on his extraordinarily colourful life and ruminating on love, fame, family and misfortune with his infamous wit and irreverence, in this hilarious but ultimately tragic story of a life.

The play draws on Wilde’s letters, essays, and anecdotes to bring this literary genius to life, which will appeal as much to those who know little about the man as much as it will to those who admire his work.

This play has delighted audiences in hundreds of venues across the world, and is sure to be an unmissable performance!

Tickets are priced at €16 and can be purchased online or though the Box Ofﬁce on 090 662 5824. For more information, or to buy tickets online now, visit roscommonartscentre.ie.

is the Curse of the Drinking Classes’ will be performed at Roscommon Arts Centre on Thursday, September 12th (8 pm).

Majella Hunt (former Director of Services at Roscommon County Council) pictured with Eileen Callaghan at the recent opening of the ‘In These Rooms’ exhibition in An Ríoga, Boyle. Pic: Brian Farrell

Anna Roberston, Christy Wynne, and Theresa Cunningham pictured at the recent opening of the ‘In These Rooms’ exhibition in An Ríoga, Boyle. Pic: Brian Farrell

Artist Greer MacKeogh pictured addressing the crowd at the opening of her new exhibition, ‘In These Rooms’, in An Ríoga, Boyle. Pic: Brian Farrell

Artist Greer MacKeogh, her husband Simon Feeney, and their children Riley, Calvin, and Lenny, pictured with author and broadcaster Vincent Woods at the recent opening of her new exhibition, ‘In These Rooms’, in An Ríoga, Boyle. Pic: Brian Farrell

GOING OUT

Frank O’Toole, Ava Croghan and Pat Garvey pictured at the Ballintubber Heritage Festival which was held recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Eilish Feeley, genealogist; Eileen Kenny and Kathleen Shanagher pictured at the Ballintubber Heritage Festival which was held recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Street performer Denver Coyne pictured at the Ballintubber Heritage Festival which was held recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Tess Muir pictured at the Ballintubber Heritage Festival which was held recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

The archaeological dig site in Ballintubber Castle was opened to the public during the Ballintubber Heritage Festival which was held recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Jimmy Hussey’s Old Forge in Ballintubber was re-opened for display purposes during the Ballintubber Heritage Festival which was held recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Patrick Hanley and Celine Galvin from JF Hanley Groundcare presenting the trophy to the Lads Syndicate, the owners of Presenting Lad, who won the JF Hanley Groundcare Beginners Steeplechase at Roscommon Races. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at a recent meeting of Roscommon Races were Gerry and Saoirse McDonagh. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Roscommon Races recently were Daniel and Seamus Rogers. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

FarmingPeople

There

(August

There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.34 per kilo up to €2.97 per kilo. Heifers fetched an average of €3.00 per kilo up to €3.66 per kilo. Dry cows ranged from an average of €2.34 per kilo up to €2.97 per kilo. Sample prices: LMX -885KG -€2630 -€2.97 per kg, SIX735KG- €1950- €2.65 per kg, LMX -640KG€1680- €2.63 per kg, CHX -680KG -€1770€2.95 per kg, LMX-635KG- €1700- €2.68 per kg, and LMX-545KG -€1360- €2.50 per kg.

Heifers ranged from an average of €3.00 per kilo up to €3.66 per kilo. Sample prices: CHX-725KG- €2320- €3.20 per kg, CHX695KG- €2260 - €3.25 per kg, CHX-535KG€1840- €3.44 per kg, CHX- 555KG- €1830€3.30 per kg, CHX- 500KG- €1700- €3.44 per kg, LMX -465KG - €1700-€3.66 per kg, CHX- 480KG- €1640- €3.47 per kg, LMX485KG- €1680- €3.46per kg, and LM- 625KG€2080- €3.33 per kg.

Bigger numbers of animals presented for sale last week due to the recent inclement weather and ground conditions.

The bullock ring with better quality on o er reported a better trade for both the lighter stores and heavier lots. Quality stores made up to €3.44 a kilo while heavier lots topped out at €2110.

The heifer ring with increased numbers on o er witnessed the stores peak at €3.48 a kilo while the heavier lots made up to €1990.

Dry cows made up to €2630 while cows with calves at foot made up to €2680. The weanling ring with numbers starting to increase saw the bulls peak at €3.70 a kilo while heifers hit €3.28 a kilo.

SAMPLE PRICES

BULLOCKS: Lm 495kgs €1600 Lm 453kgs €1500 Ch 530kgs €1750 Ch 500kgs €1720 AA 535kgs €1680 Lm

Sheep

We had a large number of sheep on o er at our weekly Sale of Lambs and stag ewes on Wednesday, September 4th. Prices for spring lambs made up to €230 while stag ewes topped out at €209.

Our next sale takes place on Wednesday, September 11th. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com.

Spring lambs, sample prices: 74kgs -€230€3.11 per kg, 110kgs -€220- €2.00 per kg, 62kgs- €204-€3.29 per kg, 54.3kgs -€166€3.06 per kg, 50.5kgs- €161- €3.19 per kg, 44.7kgs -€160- €3.58 per kg, 39kgs-€158€4.05 per kg, 38kgs-€150 -€3.95 per kg, and 36.3kgs - €130- €3.27 per kg.

Cast ewes, sample prices: 98.9kgs- €209€2.11 per kg, 104kgs - €200 - €1.92 per kg, 94.3kgs - €196 - €2.08 per kg, 86Kgs - €196 - €2.28 per kg, 75Kgs - €158 - €2.11 per kg, 73.8kgs - €152 - €2.06 per kg, 69Kgs- €120 - €1.74 per kg, and 65.5kgs- €108- €1.65 per kg.

€1680 Lm 535kgs €1750 AA 595kgs €1940 Lm

€1820 Lm 640kgs €2090 Lm 610kgs €1990 Ch 710kgs €2110 Ch 650kgs €2070 AA 740kgs €2010 AA 610kgs €1900. HEIFERS: Ch 403kgs €1390 Ch 415kgs €1350 Lm 425kgs €1310 Chx 485kgs €1570 Shx 445kgs €1550 Ch 460kgs €1440 Ch 750kgs €1990 Ch 620kgs €1920 AA 665kgs €1830 Lm 550kgs €1700.

DRY COWS: Lmx 925kgs €2630 Lm 770kgs €2270 Ch 835kgs

Pictured at the Elphin Agricultural Show on Saturday last were Anne and Peter Dolan, Michelle Cox, Marie and Jackie Neary. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Elphin Agricultural Show on Saturday last were Anthony and Matthew Beirne, Siabh Dolan, Killian Cox, Daniel Dolan and Leighton Travers. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Elphin Agricultural Show on Saturday last were Megan Gaughan, Cathal Nally, Joshua Battle and David Nally. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Elphin Agricultural Show on Saturday last were Annabelle and Emily Travers. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Elphin Agricultural Show on Saturday last were Rebecca, Tony and Annie Mae Giblin.

Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Elphin Agricultural Show on Saturday last were Marian Carney, Kelly Ann Cregg and Leona McLoughlin. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

FarmingPeople

Farming Rathcroghan Conference 2024 was a successful event

A successful, well attended Farming Rathcroghan Conference was held at Rathcroghan Visitor Centre on Friday, 23rd of August as part of a range of events for Heritage Week 2024. Welcoming the attendees and speakers to the event, the Project Manager Richie Farrell spoke of the conference as one of a number of events in the Farming Rathcroghan promotions and publicity programme for 2024 and a key project delivery event for the EU Just Transition Fund, under which the project has received funding for a further two years to continue development.

The Project Manager also referenced the launching of the Farming Rathcroghan EIP 2019-2023 Final Report to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine which he said was an important part of this year’s conference programme.

The report outlines the novel approaches taken and the policies devised in delivering a best practice model, which, can be uti-

lised in other areas, transferrable to other locations, serve as a ﬂagship model and provide a valuable learning resource tool. The report is now available on the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine website and on the Farming Rathcroghan website.

The Project Manager acknowledged Daniel Curley and staff at the Rathcroghan Visitor Centre for their organisational support and arrangements in hosting the conference again this year, with special thanks to Alan Healy, the new archaeologist with Farming Rathcroghan on the project for his assistance and also to Heritage Ofﬁcer of Roscommon County Council Nollaig Feeney.

A full day of talks featured a number of representative stakeholders, with speakers offering presentations and discussion on such areas as Agricultural Insights and Sustainability from Bord Bia, the County Roscommon Local Authority Climate Action Plan 2024-2029, Irish Farmers Association and the new

Nature Restoration Law, the Breeding Waders European Innovation Project, Archaeology in the Planning Process, Farmland Biodiversity, Collecting Field Names and Placenames and the Wrought Iron Farm Gate.

The Project Manager reflected on the importance of pausing each year and reflecting on the work achieved to date while at the same time reinforcing and referencing the continued and future role of the project in supporting the livelihood of farming. He reiterated that while the project was not perfect and the work was by no means complete, everyone involved should feel immensely proud of the work that has been delivered over the last five years and acknowledged the contribution that all farmers involved in the scheme(s) to the success of the project.

The successful application for further funding to the EU Just Transition Fund 2024-2026 has secured the project operation for the next two years and placed the project on a ﬁrm footing. Supporting the farming community is seen as key, with the model developed of managing and protecting this unique archaeological landscape. The project can now move forward with an

expanded catchment area inviting further farmers to participate, devise further developments and be part of this unique farming, archaeological and cultural heritage project in County Roscommon.

IFA delegation sets out Budget priorities with ministers

An IFA delegation met the Minister for Finance Jack Chambers and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohoe to discuss IFA’s Budget priorities.

Francie Gorman said the meeting was an opportunity to discuss the signiﬁcant pressures on farm families because of the massive 57% drop in farm incomes over the last 12 months.

The IFA President said there was a particular focus on the need to support our vulnerable sectors.

“They face the biggest challenge in trying to reach viability. We have speciﬁc, targeted proposals that would add to existing supports,” he

said. “We made the point that any support for SMEs should extend to farm enterprises, which are also struggling to make ends meet because of higher costs and the burden of regulation,” he said.

The IFA delegation, which included IFA Farm Business chair Bill O’Keeffe and IFA Rural Development chair John Curran, raised the Climate and Nature Fund, saying a substantial element of it has to be ringfenced to support farmers in meeting climate targets.

“Farmers are keen to play their part in reaching our national targets, but funding will be needed to convert this into real outcomes,” he said.

Francie Gorman said the various reliefs that exist for the sector must be extended and anything that facilitated generational renewal should be part of the package for agriculture.

The IFA delegation insisted that TAMS ceilings would have to be adjusted to take higher costs into account.

On the Residential Zoned Land Tax, the ministers took on board the IFA’s “consistent position” that active farmers would have to be removed from the tax.

Concluding, Francie Gorman said Budget 2025 would be a measure of the Government’s commitment to farming.

Pictured at the recent Farming Rathcroghan Conference were Mike McCarthy (Rathcroghan Visitor Centre), Caitriona O’Connor, Damien Murray (Bord Bia) and Alan Healy (archaeologist/Farming Rathcroghan).

Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at the recent Farming Rathcroghan Conference were Damien Murray (Bord Bia), Joe Fenwick (University of Galway), Richie Farrell (Project Manager), Aoife Moore (Roscommon County Council) and Joe Murphy (IFA). Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Sean Naughton MIPAV

NEW TO THE MARKET

Four bedroom semi-detached residence located at 28 Ashwood Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon F42 FY22

Sean Naughton Auctioneers is delighted to o er – “new to the market” – a spacious four bedroom semi-detached residence built to a very high standard in the much-sought-after location 28 Ashwood Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

Accommodation brie y includes four bedrooms (one ensuite) main bathroom, sitting room kitchen/ diner & utility. There are lawns to the front and rear of the property with a tarmacadam driveway. The property is located within walking distance of all local amenities. Price Guide €265,000.

Sale of bungalow at Convent Court completed

Keith McLoughlin of Remax Team Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of a three-bedroomed bungalow with a prime location at 20 Convent Court, Roscommon Town (F42 XE89).

Remax Team Earley are currently urgently seeking similar bungalow residences for disappointed underbidders.

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 the auctioneer directly by phoning Cormac on 086 3519492, Cathal on 086 1409158, or Keith on 086 0848590.

FOR SALE  Circa 0.80 acres at Farragher, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon Prime site located at Farragher, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon with old stone building on 0.80 acres subject to planning permission. Open to o ers over €60,000. O ers invited.

Spacious four-bedroomed residence new to market with Naughton Auctioneers

Sean Naughton Auctioneers are delighted to bring to the market a spacious fourbedroomed semi-detached residence built to a very high standard in a much sought after location. The property in question is No 28 Ashwood, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

Accommodation brieﬂy includes four bedrooms (one ensuite), main bathroom, sitting room kitchen/diner & utility. There are mature gardens to the back and front of the property. The back garden has a large storage shed. Also, there is large parking area to the front.

The property is located on the main Roscommon to Athlone Road approximately 10 minutes from Roscommon town and 20 minutes from the town of Athlone and the main motorway to Dublin with easy travel connections to the airport. This property has been ﬁnished to a high standard and would make an ideal family home or investment.

For further details on any of the above please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090 6625080/6625864, 087 2479486 (mobile) or email seannaughton@eircom. net

20 Convent Court, Roscommon Town

Roscommon producers among Blas na hÉireann finalists

Four Roscommon food producers have been announced as ﬁnalists for Blas na hÉireann (The Irish Food Awards) 2024, and the countdown is now on for another exciting and joyous awards weekend in the pretty seaside town of Dingle. The three-day event will take place from Thursday, October 3rd, to Saturday, October 5th Now in its 17th year, Blas na hÉireann saw another record-breaking year across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the ﬁrst time this year. During the judging, which took place in June and

July, over 3,000 entries were judged, testament to the number of brilliant producers across the country.

“I am delighted to see that four very high quality producers are through to the ﬁnal stages” said Louise Ward (Head of Enterprise, Roscommon).

“I really understand and appreciate all the hard work and dedication that these companies do on a dayto-day basis, constantly improving their offerings to a seriously high standard. Roscommon is lucky to have them.

“I wish them every success at Blas

Uisce Éireann launches text alerts service for 22,750 households in Roscommon

Uisce Éireann has annouced the launch of its brand-new, free-touse text alerts service, which will provide water supply updates and information to customers across 1.6 million households nationally and over 22,750 households in Roscommon county.

Research carried out by IPSOS B&A on behalf of Uisce Éireann shows that almost three-quarters of its customers want to hear about water services, with over half of businesses indicating they are interested in being regularly notified. The text alert system will be the first time that all of Uisce Éireann’s customers will be able to sign up and receive notifications for their area. The service provides customers with details of supply interruptions that are expected to last longer than four hours. It will also include details on planned and unplanned outages and boil water notices should they be needed to protect public health.

Previously only vulnerable cus-

tomers and business customers have been able to avail of a text alerts service, with the service now extending to all. A new easy-touse process means customers can quickly sign up by inputting their Eircode and mobile number via the Uisce Éireann website water.ie.

The text alerts to all customers build on communications already in place and the need to support customers is clear. Data from Uisce Éireann shows it responded and managed over 12,000 planned and unplanned outages in 2023 with over 90% resolved in under 24 hours.

Ensuring customers stay informed is a key focus and this service further enhances Uisce Éireann’s commitment to engage with its customers in an effective and timely manner. The new supports build on services already in place including, 24/7 contact centre, media releases, stakeholder communications, social media @IWcare and a dedicated online outage portal on water.ie.

and throughout their journeys. They are the core of job creation and putting Ireland on the food map”.

The four ﬁnalists shortlisted from Co Roscommon across a range of different categories are Do Me A Flavour, Healthy Bake ltd, Oliver Carty and Family, and Waldron Family Meats. This year’s Blas na hÉireann awards in Dingle will see the return of Eat Ireland in a Day market and the Blas Village, where the 2024 ﬁnalists will get the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers.

Local groups acknowledged under

Community Recognition Fund

Community projects in Ballghaderreen, Boyle and Roscommon are to receive funding in excess of €800,000 under the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Community Recognition Fund.

The three projects are among 185 community projects set to beneﬁt from funding of €16.5m under the fund’s ﬁrst window of application. The funding was announced last month by Minister Heather Humphreys TD.

The fund aims to support the development of community

infrastructure and facilities in recognition of communities hosting new arrivals from Ukraine and other countries, namely Temporary Protection and international Protection Applicants.

The largest beneﬁciary of funding of half a million euro is the Growing Tree Integrated Early Years Education and Childcare Facility in Ballaghaderreen, which is overseen by Roscommon LEADER Partnership (RLP).

A total of €149,787 was allocated to Roscommon Home

Services Cooperative Society Ltd who trade as RHS Home Care – Fáilte Le Chéile (Welcome for All) project. The funding received will assist the renovation of a building in the centre of Roscommon Town as a new Community Space.

The third and ﬁnal recipient of funding was the Boyle Family Resource Centre Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre who received funding of €146,000 for renovation and expansion works at their facility in the heart of Boyle town.

Representatives of each of the

successful applicants visited Roscommon County Council for the formal announcement. The groups were welcomed by the Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Shane Tiernan, who acknowledged the work and vision of each of the successful applicants.

Also present at the announcement were Mark Keaveny, Director of Services, Cathriona Maccarthy, Head of Community and Bridie McHugh, Scheme Administrator, Roscommon County Council.

Broadcaster Lucy Kennedy pictured launching Uisce Éireann’s new text alerts service.

Roscommon County Council recently formally recognised recipients of funding under the Community Recognition Fund at an event held in in Áras an Chontae. Pictured with Council personnel were representatives of groups who received funding. Left to right: Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council), Cathriona Maccarthy (Head of Community, Roscommon County Council), Bridie McHugh (Scheme Administrator, Community & Enterprise Department, Roscommon County Council), Martina Earley (Chief Executive Officer, Roscommon LEADER Partnership), Padraig Kelly (Vice Chairperson, Roscommon Homecare Services Board), Veronica Barrett (Director of Services, Roscommon Homecare Services), Mark Keaveny (Director of Services, Roscommon County Council), Louise Moran (Manager, Boyle Family Resource Centre), Sinéad Rafterty (Clinical Lead, Boyle Family Resource Centre), Linda Devine (Lead SICAP Coordinator, Roscommon LEADER Partnership) and Patrick Towey (General Manager, Roscommon Homecare Services).

Classifieds

ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS  ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS

If you WANT to stop gambling ... and REMAIN stopped ... you CAN!

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS MEETING every Monday at 8.45 pm at St. Kieran’s Community Centre, Athlone (N37 W7P3).

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS

• Firebacks replaced and ues repaired

• Can be cleaned from the bottom up

• Chimney cowls and crow guards tted

• Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone: 087 2798704

CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING

Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess)

- Open re - Stoves - Ranges

Chimney CCTV Inspection

OIL BOILERS SERVICED

Burners Repaired

CARPETS CLEANING

Satellite and Digital

TV Installation

All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851

www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com

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

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

Stephen Casey Construction

● General Building

● Extensions & Roo ng

● Groundworks

● Renovations

● Chimney CCTV Inspections

● Chimney Repair

- Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

FUEL FOR SALE

 GOOD QUALITY TURF for sale. Delivered. Ballaghaderreen area. Tel. 087 6810849.

 WOOD FOR SALE. 10 large ash trees. Cut in rings and smaller blocks. Contact: 087 2385378.

 AUTUMN SALE of this year’s newly harvested turf and truck/lorry loads of 2 year old seasoned Ash rewood. Tel 087 4475230.

FOR SALE

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com NO JOB TOO

COUNSELLING

& HYPNOTHERAPY

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

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

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

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

All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069

e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

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

 FOR SALE: Quantity of furniture including pine dresser and mahogany writing desk. Tel. 087 9657933 or 090 6633084.

 NEW AND PARTWORN TYRES FOR SALE; 195/65/15 tted at €50, 205/55/16 tted at €50. Van tyres 205/65/16 tted at €65. Jeep tyres 265/65/17 tted €90. All other sizes available to order. Call for details. Phone: 083 2012390.

TRAILERS

TRAILER

SERVICING & REPAIRS to all makes and models (LED Lights, Brakes, Re-Wiring, etc.)

Call TrailerFix on 086 4041875 Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

MAN AVAILABLE

to cut lawns and hedges, power washing of houses/ slatted sheds/driveways. Drain unblocking and cleaning. Gutter cleaning. Tel. 086 101 8237

PODIATRIST

Tullys

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

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

● HSE Trained and Approved ● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatmeny

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

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

SIOBHAN

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON –MOLLOYS PHARMACY

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle

Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed By Appointment Only –

DIP CHFP

(Monday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

Electrician Available

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

FIND ANYONE

to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ... WE DO ANYTHING

From ﬁtting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath

• Fast Reliable Service

• Professional, Courteous Employees

• Trustworthy ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

GARDENING

Du y 087 9662678

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

CARER REQUIRED in the Knockcroghery area

WEEKEND WORK

Please apply to PO Box No. 3111, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. SCHOOL

REQUIRED

for school year 24/25 to assist pupils travelling between home and school by bus each morning and afternoon Monday – Friday. Further vacancies may arise in the near future. Please email kiltoomo ce@gmail.com

POSITION: Member Services O cer

REPORTING TO: CEO

CONTRACT: Full-Time Fixed Purpose Contract (Maternity Leave)

Roscommon Credit Union is a community credit union with 4 o ces, located in Roscommon, Elphin, Strokestown and Ballaghaderreen. Our values are to serve our members and the community with the highest professional standards and service.

The successful candidate will be responsible for carrying out a range of operational and administrative duties that will contribute to the e ective running of the day-to-day operations of the credit union. They will be required to work primarily from our Ballaghaderreen o ce but work in our other branches may be necessary from time to time.

Key Responsibilities:

■ To provide a quality service to members at the counter to enable them to make lodgements, withdrawals, loan issues and repayments, Foreign exchange handling

■ Process direct debits. Standing orders, EFT’s and amend mandates

■ Accurately and diligently handle cash, reconcile balances and account for any inconsistencies

■ Through training, develop excellence in dealing with member queries to the highest levels of service across diverse areas such as advising of credit union products, services & complaints etc.

■ Ensure compliance with existing systems & controls, and policies & procedures.

■ Complete other duties as required by the CEO

■ Undertake relevant training as deemed necessary

The following experience and/or quali cation are desirable but not essential:

■ QFA, APA or actively working towards a quali cation

■ Strong Communication skills and the ability to demonstrate ‘member service’ credentials and an ability and desire to enhance member service at every opportunity

■ Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and also as a team player

■ Cash handling experience

■ Good Microsoft O ce skills

■ An appreciation and an awareness of the credit union ethos

■ Previous Credit union experience

Applications by email only to ceo@roscommoncu.ie

Closing Date for receipt of applications: Wednesday 18th September 2024

Short listing will apply and assessment will be done on the basis of the information provided in the application. Roscommon Credit Union Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer

SHANNON

Jessica Holly Carrowmore, Kilteevan, Co Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of our beautiful daughter and sister who joined the angels on 3rd September, 2022

God sent an angel to the earth, the sweetest angel too. And for such a tiny little girl, she had so much to do.

She knew she did not have much time upon this earth to stay. So, she did not waste a second, she got started right away.

Her eyes were bright and sparkly, she took in every turn.

She did not miss a single thing, because Jessica came to learn. God sent her here to touch the hearts of those He could not reach.

She taught them courage, strength and faith, because Jessica came to teach.

Her tiny little body, was so full of God above.

You felt it when you held her, because Jessica came to love.

In eight short years she managed, what many never will. When she went home to Jesus, her purpose was fulﬁlled.

She had learned and taught, loved and played. She had learned her lessons well. I know He was so proud of her, when she went home to dwell.

But when we miss her OH-SO-MUCH. I can almost hear Him say, please, understand her work was done. Jessica did not come to stay.

Until the day we can see your smiling face again –loved and missed by Mammy, Daddy, Laura and Daisy, your dog xxxx.

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

Loved and missed by your Nanny Gately and uncles Sean and Ger Gately.

JESSICA, OUR NIECE Jessica, our lives go on without you, but nothing is the same. We try to hide our heartache when someone speaks your name.

Sad are the hearts that love you Jessica. Silent are the tears that fall. Living here without you, Jessica, is the hardest part of all.

Love and miss you every day, Jessica, Auntie Maura and Uncle Des xx.

In memory of our beautiful Granddaughter, who got her angel wings on the 3rd September, 2022

Of all the special gifts in life however great or small, To have you as our Granddaughter was the greatest gift of all.

May the winds of love blow softly and whisper in your ear

“We love and miss you and wish that you were here”

Deep in our hearts, your life is kept to love and cherish, not forget. No more tomorrows we can share but yesterdays are always there.

A silent thought, a secret tear keeps your memory ever near In our hearts forever.

Lovingly remembered by Granny and Granddad Kathleen and Seamus Shannon.

JESSICA, OUR NIECE

They say there is a reason, They say that time will heal, But neither time or 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’re so wonderful to think of, But so hard to be without.

We cannot bring the good days back, When we were all together, The family chain is broken now, But memories live forever.

Loved and sadly missed by her aunties Michelle, Deirdre and uncles Mark, Shamey, Rory and John.

JESSICA, OUR COUSIN

We miss your face

We miss your smile

We wish we could see you once in a while

We miss your laugh We miss your love

We hope you are watching us from above

We miss so much not having you here, Enjoying life and having you near.

Lots of love your cousins, Aaron, Noah, Kara, Amber & Senan

NUGENT

Willie Cloonfour, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon who died 7th September 2023 (1st Anniversary)

Deeply regretted by his sorrowing brother John, sister-in-law Essie, and large circle of friends.

Rest In Peace.

Anniversary Mass for Willie in the Sacred Heart Church, Whitehall, on Saturday 12th October at 7 pm.

RATTIGAN

Anne (Annie) Corlackin, Creggs, Co. Galway (1st Anniversary)

One year since we said our goodbyes to our lovely Mother. We, her family, would like to thank everyone for their kindness shown to us during this sad time. Sadly missed by all her family.

HEALY

Austin (Jnr.) 16 Oaklawn Drive, Roscommon (27th Anniversary) September 5th

Time may close the book of grief, like the smile that hides the tears. But memories turn back every leaf despite the passing years. His life is a beautiful memory. His absence a silent grief.

Treasured memories always. Deeply missed by Mam, Assumpta, Liz, Siobhan, David, Elma, Megan, Mikayla, Zoe and Harry. x

BROPHY

Fidelma

Ardeevin, Castleplunkett, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary) Who passed away on 6th September 2019

R.I.P.

I hide my tears when I say your name, but the pain in my heart is still the same.

Although I smile and seem carefree there’s no one who misses you more than me.

Lovingly remembered by her husband Tony.

Anniversary Mass will be held in Kilmurray Church on Sunday, 8th September at 10am.

www.brianmurraystone.com

M cDERMOTT

Niall

Ard Coman, Roscommon (7th Anniversary) Who died on 8th September 2017.

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

Loved always by his mother Mary and sisters Clodagh and Sile, brother-in-law Niall and family.

Anniversary Mass will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 7th September at 10am.

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

DEMPSEY (née Cahill)

Bridie

Edenaun, Elphin, Co. Roscommon and late of Main Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon who passed away on August 8th 2024

We, the family of the late Bridie Dempsey, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all who sympathised with and supported us in our time of loss. We are grateful to all those who attended Mum’s Funeral Mass and Burial and visited the house at Mum’s reposing.

A heartfelt thanks to all those who travelled from overseas and long distances, watched via livestream, send Mass Cards and sympathy cards, oral arrangements, and for all the lovely sentiments expressed in conversation and written messages in the Condolences Section on RIP.ie

A sincere thanks to Dr. Caoimhe Crosbie, Liz Joy (Ward Manager), the nurses and sta of St. Catherine’s Ward at the Sacred Heart Care Home, Roscommon for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Mum. Thank you to Dr. Celine McHugh of Strokestown Health Centre and the McAuli e family of McAuli e’s Chemist, Strokestown for looking after Mum.

A special word of thanks to our friends and neighbours who brought food and refreshments to our home during the Funeral days.

Thank you to Fr. Stephen Ezenwegbu for receiving Mum into St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin and for her Funeral Mass.

A special word of thanks to Fr. J.J. Gannon for the prayers in the funeral home and the graveside prayers. Sincere thanks to Andrew and Eimear Reynolds for the beautiful music and singing which added so much to the funeral liturgy.

Our heartfelt thanks to Aisling, Edel and the sta of the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown for the beautiful food after Mum’s funeral.

Sincere thanks to Cathal and Mary Brady, Brady’s Funeral Directors who handled the arrangements with sensitivity, kindness and professionalism. A special word of thanks to the gravediggers Padraig and Tommy who prepared Mum’s nal resting place with dignity, care and respect.

As it would be impossible to mention everyone individually please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deep and sincere gratitude. Bridie will be missed forever but we know that she will live in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Heart Church, Ballinagare.

HESTER (née Madden) Bea

Aughaderry, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon

We, the Hester family, wish to ackowledge most sincerely relatives, neighbours and friends who have shown kindness and support over the past few weeks. Thanks to all who called to the house and brought refreshments. A heartfelt thanks to all who attended the Funeral Home, Requiem Mass and burial; to those who sent Mass Cards, Sympathy Cards, phonecalls, messages and online condolences.

To the Paramedics, Nurses and Doctors at Castlebar Hospital, we thank you dearly for your compassion and support. To Dr. Lecky, Dr. Dan Delaney, Bea’s Carers and Molloy’s Pharmacy – thank you so much for the care and attention shown to Bea.

A special thank you to her dear friend, Gaye Barrett, for all her care and support.

Thank you to Fr. Glenn Alipoyo and Canon Liam Devine who celebrated Bea’s Funeral Mass and also to the altar servers. Thanks to Carmel McLoughlin for her beautiful singing and music at the Mass. Thanks to Colin for the beautiful music at the graveside.

A special word of thanks to the Undertakers, Tommy and Bernie Sharkey, who took care of funeral arrangements in such a professional and digni ed manner and to the grave diggers who prepared Bea’s nal resting place. Special thanks to Fiddler’s Restaurant for a beautiful meal.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept our heartfelt gratitude. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for your intentions.

CUMMINS

Peggy

Pound Road, Ballygar, Co. Galway (5th Anniversary) 10th September

Do not stand at my grave and weep,

I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am in a thousand winds that blow,

I am the softly falling snow.

I am the gentle showers of rain, I am the ﬁelds of ripening grain.

I am in the morning hush,

I am in the graceful rush.

Of beautiful birds in circling ﬂight,

I am the starshine of the night.

I am in the ﬂowers that bloom,

I am in a quiet room.

I am in the birds that sing,

I am in each lovely thing.

Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there. I do not die.

Mam, our love is with you too. Anne, Mike, Eugene and Joe.

John Knockhall, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

WALSH

Kevin and Eamon and Pat

Ballymacfrane, Donamon, Co. Roscommon (23rd, 4th and 2nd Anniversaries)

In loving memory of Kevin who passed away on the 9th October 2001 and his father Eamon who passed away on the 13th August 2020 and his uncle Pat who passed away on 24th December 2022

R.I.P.

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

Always remembered by their families.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 8th September at 9.30am in Clooneycolgan Church.

MOORE

J.P.

Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 10th September 2021

A silent house, an empty chair something missing everywhere.

P.J. Moore

Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Who passed on 10th September 2021

Aged 71 years

Rest in peace

Life goes on, we know that’s true, but its not the same since we lost you. Your memory is so precious. Your presence missed so much. You will always be remembered and loved by all of us. And throughout our lives, no matter where, in our hearts you are always there.

Lovingly remembered by Bríd, Shane , Kelly, Ryan, Ciara, Alan, Linda and extended family.

JP’s Anniversary Mass will take place on Saturday, 7th of September at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

Bridie’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday September 7th at 12 noon in the Sacred

Kevin (23rd Anniversary) Eamon (4th Anniversary) Pat (2nd Anniversary)

FAMILYNOTICES

CARROLL

Thomas Kiltoom and Monksland Athlone (5th Anniversary)

We sat beside your bedside, our hearts were crushed and sore, we did our duty to the end till we could do no more. In tears we watched you sinking, we watched you fade away and though our hearts were breaking, we knew you could not stay. You left behind some aching hearts, that loved you most sincere, we never shall and never will, forget you, Father dear. Sadly missed by your loving daughter Sharon and Brendan.

Dad silent thoughts of time together leave memories that will last forever. Your loving son Rory.

Dad still loved, still missed, gone yet not forgotten. From your loving son Declan, Carole, Ray and Shannon.

The rolling stream of life rolls on, but still the vacant chair recalls the love, the voice, the smile of the one who once sat there. In loving memory of our dearest Grandtom.

Love from your grandchildren Jillian, Brendan, Paul, Nicola, Kevin, Thomas and Conor and all your great grandchildren.

Thomas’ Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Mary’s Church, Castlerahan, Co. Cavan on Saturday, September 7th at 6.30pm.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF DELANEY

Liam Creemully, Castlecoote Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on the 11th September 2010 (14th Anniversary)

Our time together was special, so were the memories we made, and although you live in Heaven now, those memories will never fade. We bow our heads in silence and remember you with love, and we know that you are up there, watching from above. If Heaven is for angels, then we know that’s where you’ll be, and we know that you will be waiting, when Heaven calls for us.

Always remembered by your loving family.

Anniversary Mass in Fuerty Church on Sunday, 8th September at 11.30am.

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

GACQUIN

Ellen (Nellie)

Kilderney, Curraghboy

In loving memory of Ellen (Nellie) Gacquin, Kilderney, Curraghboy whose 7th anniversary occurs on 5th September 2024.

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

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

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 8th September at 10am.

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

CUNNINGHAM Bridie

Meelick, Boyounagh, Glenamaddy, Co Galway Who passed away suddenly on 7th August 2024

Bridie’s children, Christina, Breeda & Alan along with her extended family wish to express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all those who sympathised and supported us on Bridie’s sudden passing.

Sincere thanks to our neighbours, friends, relatives who went above and beyond in our time of need. Thank you for your generosity and support.

Thank you to everyone who visited Bridie’s home, brought refreshments, sent mass cards, owers, phone calls and messages of condolences.

Thanks to all the neighbours, friends, relatives who took part in the Guard of Honour in and out of Bridie’s residence in Meelick.

Thanks to the nurses who cared for Bridie in University Hospital Galway, CT nurses and Glenamaddy Health Centre.

To Fr Anthaiah Pudota, we would like to thank you for all your support and for visiting our home. To Fr Anthaiah Pudota and Fr Paddy Mooney for the beautiful concelebrated mass. Thanks to Carmel McLoughlin for the lovely music and singing and to all who participated in the Funeral Mass.

Thank you to Michael Rattigan and the children for the lovely singing at the graveside.

Our gratitude to Pat and Caroline of Coneran Funeral Undertakers for their professional service, their invaluable advice and support, and their attention to detail.

Thanks to the gravediggers for their attention to detail in preparing Bridie’s nal resting place.

Our sincere thanks to everyone who attended the removal and Funeral Mass. Also, to everyone who travelled long distances to be with us.

We thank Screenes Caterers, Oakland Hotel and Heneghan’s SuperValu for the meals provided and thanks to Mary Pettit for the use of the Community Centre.

As, it is not possible to thank everyone, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our heartfelt gratitude.

Month’s Mind Mass will be on Saturday, 7th September at 7 pm in St Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy.

FLYNN

Jack and Maureen Late of Grange, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon

In memory of Jack, who died on 2nd July 2004 and his wife Maureen, who died on 3rd September 2010

THANKSGIVINGS

CUNNINGHAM

Michael

Meelick, Boyounagh, Glenamaddy, Co Galway (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Michael who passed away on 3rd August 2023.

Cherished memories of a wonderful husband, father, grandad and dear friend to many.

We never asked for miracles, but today just one would do.

To have the back door open wide and see you walking through.

To hold your hand, to see your smile, to sit and talk with you for a while.

We know you walk beside us and when our lives are through, we pray that God will take our hands and lead us straight to you.

Loved forever and sadly missed by your wife Bridie (recently deceased); your children Christina, Breeda and Alan; extended family and friends.

Grandad

What we’d give if we could say “Hello Grandad” in the same old way. To hear your voice and see your smile, to sit with you and chat a while.

So, if you have a Grandad, cherish him with care.

For you’ll never know the heartache, until you see his empty chair.

Lovingly remembered by all your grandchildren: Callum, Amelia, Iarla, Michael & Carla.

Anniversary Mass will be on Saturday, 7th September at 7 pm in St Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy.

DOOLAN

Kevin “Sam” Lisnamult, Roscommon Town Who passed away on the 28th September 2023 (1st Anniversary)

A smile for all, a heart of gold, the very best this world could hold. Never selﬁsh, always kind, those are the memories you left behind. Thinking of you Dad/Grandad is easy. We do it every day. But missing you is a heartache, that never goes away.

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. Many thanks. S.G.

Forever missed and loved by his son Dougie, daughter-in-law Maura and his adored grandchildren, Amelia and Noah. 1st Anniversary Mass for Sam and his brother Con will be held in the Sacred Heart Church Roscommon on Saturday 7th September at 7pm.

Memory is a lovely lane where hearts are ever true.

lane we so often travel, because it leads to both of you.

Anniversary Mass St. Brigid’s Church, Four-Mile-House on Sunday 8th September 2024 at 12 noon.

Our Lady of Knock, pray for them.

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Intention to submit NIS (Natura Impact Statement)

I, Niamh O’Donohue, following a requirement of the planning authority, will submit an NIS to the planning authority in connection with this application, Roscommon County Council. The proposed development consists of the erection of Single Storey Dwelling with associated ancillary site works, single storey outbuilding and new proposed site entrance with new gates and piers at Hodson Bay, Barrymore, Athlone, County Roscommon.

Planning Ref: PD/24/60049, dated 2nd February 2024.

The NIS will be available for inspection or purchase, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during oﬃce hours at the oﬃces of the planning authority, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, Country Roscommon. Subject to the payment of any relevant fee, a submission or observation in relation to the NIS may be made in writing to the planning authority within 5 weeks of the date of receipt by the authority of the NIS.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Nigel Roche and Sandra Dempsey, intend to make an application to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for the retention of the temporary citing of a mobile home and associated works in the garden to the rear of our House, located at 19 Coillte Bo, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon. The purpose of which is to provide temporary accommodation for a family member

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: Nigel Roche & Sandra Dempsey.

Design Consultation Planning Applications

New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, APC Architects & Engineers, intend to apply on behalf of Dermot Hughes Cars Limited for permission for development at this site: Athlone Rd, Ardsallagh More, Roscommon

The development will consist of:

Construction of two exterior archway signages and to carry out all ancillary site works.

The Planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the 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:

Cloontrask, Castlerea, F45WV81, Co. Roscommon. P: 094 9620712

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, John and Ciara Compton, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish the existing dwelling house and construct a new replacement dwelling house and carry out all ancillary site development works at Church Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365. Mob: 085 1299470. E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Troy Cullen and Qingmiao Zhu, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house along with new Treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Carrowreagh, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365. Mob: 085 1299470. E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Shared Access Ltd is applying to the above planning authority for full planning permission for the erection of a 3m extension to the existing 21m

Monopole to support 6 No. New Telecommunications Antennae, 1 No. 0.6m Dish and RRUs together with 2 No. RBS Cabinet, 1No. PDB, 1No. GPS Antenna and all associated site works at Ballinlough Rabbitburrow, Srah, Ballinlough, 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 and A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made, in writing, to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within ﬁve 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 planning application

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning permission is sought to construct a new agriculture entrance, and all associated site works to farmlands at Ardeevin Td., Tulsk, Co. Roscommon for Con Co ey.

Signed: Con Co ey.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Irish Heritage Trust, intend to apply for Permission for the following;

(a) extension to the existing woodland walk / trails together with a board walk

(b) outdoor learning zones (c) the construction of a holistic eco-centre pavilion building (d) the installation of a 4th class housing exhibit (e) the construction of new car parking facilities, footpaths and extension to the existing bus parking (f) together with public lighting, drainage, landscaping and all other ancillary site works.

The proposed works are located within the curtilage of Strokestown Park House which is a Protected Structure (RPS No. 02300141 & RPS No. 02900142).

At: Farnbeg, Cloonradoon, Vesnoy & Lisroyne Townlands, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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 submissions or observations will be considered by the 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, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Murtagh Engineering

Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965 www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, John Dolan, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission:

1. to retain existing machinery storage shed

2. to retain agricultural site entrance

3. to construct new agricultural shed & holding pen and all ancillary site development works at Clonadra, Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed:

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

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Mary Keoghan, intend to apply for Retention Permission to retain an existing domestic garage as constructed, along with all other associated site works.

At: No. 13 The Rookery, Bellanamullia Townland, Scramoge, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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 submissions or observations will be considered by the 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, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Murtagh Engineering

Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965 www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Seamus Bennett, intend to apply for Permission for the following:

A. Renovation of an existing derelict dwelling and the construction of a single storey extension to the rear (South) of the existing dwelling,

B. Demolition of an adjacent outhouse to the northeast side of the existing dwelling,

C. Revised site boundary,

D. Installation of a sewerage treatment unit and tertiary treatment area,

E. Along with connections to site services, and all other associated site works.

At: Gra oge Td, Scramoge, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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 submissions or observations will be considered by the 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, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965 www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd, on behalf of our client: Daragh Naughton, intend to apply for permission for retention, for the site located at: Ardsallagh Beg, Co. Roscommon, F42 V945. The development (Permission for Retention) will consist of: • Retention for an as constructed extension to the side of existing dwelling and internal alterations.

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

Signed:

Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd (Agent) on behalf of Daragh Naughton

LEGAL NOTICE

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, O B Farms Ltd., intend applying for Rentention Permission to retain as constructed existing Manure Pit together with all associated site works at Ballyroddy Td, Elphin, Co Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of ve weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. 086 2328484

An Chuirt Duiche The District Court No. 83.1 Registration of Clubs Acts, 1904 to 1988 Application For Renewal Of Certi cate Of Registration District Court Area of Roscommon District No. 4 Rosemary O’Brien – Applicant I Rosemary O’Brien of Araghty, Athleague, Roscommon Secretary of The Roscommon Golf Club a Club whose premises are situated at Mote Park, Roscommon, Roscommon, . intends to apply to the Court at Roscommon District Court on the 17 September 2024 at 10:30 for a Renewal of the Certi cate of Registration of the above mentioned Club.

The object of the said Club is Golf Club I enclose the following documents -

(a) A certi cate signed by two Peace Commissioners and by the owner of the premises.

(b) Two copies of the Club Rules.

(c) A list of the NAMES IN FULL (not initials) and addresses of the o cials and Committee of Management or governing body of the Club.

(d) A list of the names of the members of the Club.

(e) The prescribed Court fee.

Signed: Mahon Sweeney Solicitors LLP

Solicitor for Applicant

The Square, Roscommon, Roscommon

To the: Garda Superintendent, at MR.Roscommon. CE@Garda.ie, Roscommon Garda Station, Abbey Street, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 HN32

To the: Fire O cer, at re@roscommoncoco.ie, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 VR98

To the: Health Service Executive O cial, at roscommon.peho@hse.ie

To the: Registrar of Clubs, Roscommon District Court

SportsPeople

Bookies had edge at Roscommon on Monday

Horses for Courses

Bookmakers had the better of the exchanges at Lenabane on Monday, with only two favourites winning on soft to heavy going.

The evening started with Shane Foley aboard Lough Tay winning the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race for trainer Jessica Harrington at 7/2 with the favourite Think About It 3rd at 5/2. The second race, the Elphin Handicap, went to 12/1 shot Cannes Do ridden by Chris Hayes for Birr-based trainer Philip Byrne.

The Roscommon Racecourse. ie handicap saw Joanna Morgan return to the winner’s enclosure with Merisi Diamond with Ronan Whelan in the saddle at 9/2 holding on. The Lecarrow Race provided punters with the ﬁrst winning favourite in Vestigia just holding on by a neck under Gary Carroll for Sheila Lavery.

An odds-on favourite won the next, the Racing Here Again

On September 30th Maiden, with Joseph O’Brien training Rosso, who was never in danger, winning easily under Declan McDonagh at 8/11.

The penultimate Oran Handi-

by Tom Red

cap provided Sheila Lavery with a double as Robbie Colgan steered Scatchwah to come from behind to win at 12/1.

The closing Roscommon Racecourse On Facebook Handicap gave no relief to the punters as 10/1 shot Moutarde gave Gary Carroll a double riding for Gavin Cromwell. Racing is on again here on the 30th of the month with the penultimate meeting of the year.

This weekend’s action Racing this week begins this evening in Powerstown Park, Clonmel, with a ﬂat card starting at 4.10 pm. Tomorrow evening (Friday) there is racing on the level at Down Royal, with the ﬁrst at 3.15 pm, and over the jumps at Kilbeggan, off at 4 pm.

Saturday afternoon sees racing on the level at Proudstown Park outside Navan at 2.15 pm. Sunday is a day of rest followed by the two-day September meeting at Galway with racing over the sticks on Monday at 3.55 pm, with Tuesday’s racing on the ﬂat.

The Curragh

Last Saturday at the Curragh, Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore combined to win the first three races with the favourites – the opening maiden with Acapulco Bay at 1/11, the Group 3 Fillies Stakes with Dreamy at 6/5 and the Group 3 Round Tower Stakes with Ides Of March at 2/5. Moore completed a fourtimer in the featured Irish Cambridgeshire bringing Wigmore Street from last to first in the final furlong and just getting up in the shadow of the post for O’Brien’s son Joseph at odds of 22/1.

The Pat Smullen Cancer Trials Charity Race was won by Icare Desbois, trained by WP Mullins, with Ted Walsh’s Indulging 2nd and Gordon Elliott’s By Your Side ﬁlling the minor places. The winner was ridden by Stephanie Searle, the runnerup by Eva O’Neill and the 3rd by Paddy Smullen, Pat’s son having his ﬁrst ride on a racecourse. His sister Hannah rode in the race last year and is now an amateur rider having won a bumper in Tramore in May on her mother’s Fillusin, trained by Elliott.

Kilbeggan on Wednesday Racing at Kilbeggan yesterday

(Wednesday) opened with Cian Collins’ Has Me Dreaming with Jordan Gainford aboard winning the maiden hurdle at 14/1. Despite the combination ﬁnishing well to be 3rd on his hurdling debut in Roscommon last month they were friendless in the market but came from behind again to pip Cloonshire River and The Mediator.

In the Mare’s Handicap Hurdle Katherine again came with a late run to catch Destivelle and Arthur’s Victory 6/1f by 6l and ½l and for father and son team Adrian and Harry Sexton at 13/2.

The Mare’s Maiden was won by Zefania at 15/8f for John McConnell and Alex Harvey with Lady Nightingale and Vilja Song

Roscommon ladies retain AIG Women’s Senior foursomes title

SEAMUS DUKE



There was further glory for Roscommon Golf Club last weekend when the ladies team successfully defended their AIG Women’s Senior foursomes title at Carlow Golf Club in dramatic fashion on the 18th green. With match two going the way of Roscommon and match three to their opponents Mallow, it all came

Short putts

down to match one: Sinead Benedetti and Anne Quirke versus Jennifer Hickey and Nora O’Connor to decide the destination of the title. Ultimately, Roscommon’s greater experience helped them over the line with Benedetti’s 10-foot putt the clincher for a 1 up win and a 2-1 success overall.

Speaking to Golf Ireland afterwards, team captain Annie Timothy said: “We

BALLAGHADERREEN

President’s Day: Ballaghaderreen Golf President, Mr Mick Towey hosted a very successful President’s Day and Awards ceremony in the clubhouse on Saturday, 31st of August. Results were as follows – Ladies: 1st Marie Cassidy; 2nd Sarah McDonagh; 3rd Breege Flanagan. Gross: Helen Curran. Leading Qualiﬁer: Anne Meagher.

Gents: 1st Declan McGarry; 2nd Bryan Coleman; 3rd Conor Sweeney. Gross: Brendan Cox. Leading Qualiﬁer: Thomas Moran. Past President’s award: Paul McLoughlin. Longest Drive: Dion Dwyer. Nearest to the pin: Regina Fitzgerald.

Club members thanked Mick for his hard work and commitment shown to the club this

are absolutely thrilled and delighted with ourselves to have done it because it is no easy feat”.

Annie said the team played some super golf over the three days. She added: “I am absolutely delighted for the girls, they well deserve it; it’s well earned”.

The team, who received a homecoming welcome when they arrived back at Roscommon Golf Club on

Saturday night with the cup, had defeated Malone in the quarter-ﬁnal and Co Louth in the semi-ﬁnal.

Meanwhile, the Roscommon Golf Club senior men’s team were defeated 3-2 by Galgorm Castle in the Senior Cup quarter-ﬁnal on Wednesday of last week. The All-Ireland men’s title was won by Castletroy of Limerick.

year. Lady Captain, Sarah McDonagh will have it all to do again this Saturday as she hosts the Lady Captain’s Day.

BOYLE

INTERCLUBS: Our Jack O’Sullivan team’s good run came to an end last week. They were drawn against a team from Tubbercurry who as a club have been having some success at provincial level in recent years. After two games were played on each course, the teams were level at 2-2, and so the dreaded ‘sudden death’ play-off ensued. Tubbercurry won the play-off and thus proceed to the Zone Finals. Well done to Lochlainn Conboy and his team on a great campaign and an honourable ﬁnish, losing to a club with a great reputation at interclub level and by the tightest of margins.

FIXTURES: The men’s Thursday evening competitions continue as a 9-hole for the next few weeks. Next weekend’s competition for the men will be an 18-hole Stableford. Please note that the course will be closed on Sunday until the fundraising Fun Run is completed.

FUN RUN: A 5k Fun Run/walk will take place at Boyle Golf Club this Sunday, September 8th, at 11 am. The unique route will consist of two chal-

taking the minor places.

The Novice Handicap Hurdle provided a quick-ﬁre double for John McConnell with Churchwarden ridden by Ben Harvey at 15/8f who beat Andyourbirdcansing and Desert Cave.

The 2m 3f Handicap Hurdle was easily won by Eoin Grifﬁn’s outsider Loup De Tallane ridden by Carl Millar form Beechwood Winnie and Mourne Mist by 8l and 2¼l.

Willie Mullins and nephew Danny won the penultimate with Coole Cherry at 3/1 from Charlie’s Dilemma and Tell Me Again by 10l and 4½l.

The favourite For Fear Of Frost owned by Sean Mulryan pulled up early in the race with a fatal injury.

The ﬁnale provided some

compensation for Mouse Morris, who trained For Fear Of Frost, with Camino Rock who beat Royal Cave and Early Arrival with Gavin Brouder in the plate at 6/1. There is racing here again tomorrow, Friday, with seven races, starting at 4 pm.

Competition time

The winners of tickets to Kilbeggan tomorrow (Friday) are Bernie Heavey from Athleague, Michael McGarry from Roscommon, and John Egan from Ballinlough, who all told us that AP O’Brien and Ryan Moore had four winners at the Curragh on Saturday week. Hope you all enjoy the day.

To be in with a chance to win tickets for the penultimate meeting of the year at Roscommon on the 30th of September, please let us know which trainer recorded a double at Lenebane on Monday? Please give answers as usual on a postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to tomred17@gmail.com, by 5 pm, on the 25th of September. As always, please include your name, address, and a contact with all competition entries. As usual all tickets will have to be collected in the ofﬁce in Abbey Street.

lenging loops around the rolling parkland of the course with a mix of off-road and path.

Entry is €20 per person, €35 per family. Light refreshments afterwards. Please text 087 2029064 if planning to attend to help us get an idea of the numbers.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

The presentation of prizes in the recent Gents competition took place recently at Kieran’s Total Health Pharmacy. The club would like to thank Brendan Kieran for his very generous sponsorship of prizes.

CECIL EWING TEAM: Our Cecil Ewing team lost their match last weekend to Strokestown. We wish Strokestown the very best of luck in the Connacht semi-ﬁnal. The team was as follows: Captain John Coffey. Away: Oliver Curran and Damien Duignan, Jimmy Deane and Charlie Farrell. Home: Colm and Declan Loftus, Enda McDermott and Seamus Sheeran. The club would like to thank Captain John and the team for their effort.

SENIORS: The overall winner on Thursday, the 22nd of August was Michael Delorey with 35 points. Category one winner was Albert Hogg with 33 points. Seamus Mulhern won Category

two with 28 points and Category three was won by Michael Duignan with 26 points. The front nine was won by Paddy Duffy with 18 points and Gerry Emmett won the back nine with 17 points. Last Thursday ground conditions were very poor due to continuous rain and the competition was held over the original nine holes. The overall winner was Dermot Conlon with 39 points. Category one was won by Gerry Emmett with 31 points, Charlie Farrell won Category two with 39 points and Donal Collins won Category three with 34 points. The front nine was won by Damien Duignan with 20 points and the back nine was won by John Kelly with 18 points.

The next away outing will be an overnight stay in Westport with golf on Monday, the 23rd of September in Westport and golf in Castlebar on Tuesday, the 24th. Golf as usual this Thursday.

ROSCOMMON

Congratulations to our Ladies Senior Foursomes team and captains who retained their All-Ireland title in Carlow last weekend.

Well done to Francis Grehan, winner of the UNIO Aidan Mulvihill sponsored 18-hole stroke competition with a fabulous score of 66.

Favourite Grey Scatchwah wins for Gary Carroll at Roscommon.

President’s Day winners pictured at Ballaghaderreen Golf Club last Saturday. Back row (L-R) Paul McLoughlin, Breege Flanagan, Declan McGarry, Thomas Moran, Brendan Cox, Conor Sweeney. Front row: (L-R) Sarah McDonagh (Lady Captain), Mick Towey (President), Helen Curran, Anne Meagher, Marie Cassidy.

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs’ women’s team off to winning start

On Sunday Creggs’ senior women’s team played their ﬁrst game of the season in the Invitational Cup against OLBC RFC in Creggs. A good defensive performance saw the Creggs women come out on top 17-7.

It was great to see a large crowd out to support the team. Special thanks to the boys’ Youth Coaches Ivor, Ray and Jimmy and the boys who stayed around and cooked the BBQ for the players after the game.

Creggs: Susan O’Reilly (captain), Nadine Fitzmaurice, Sabrina Egan, Kelley Haugh, Abbie Murray, Orla Timon, Gabrielle Kilcommons, Jemima Adams Verling, Seren Grifﬁths, Jennifer Morris, Elaine O’Grady, Eabha Dowd, Lisa O’Rourke, Shannon Haugh, Grace Hanley, Ailish O’Rourke, Ava Haugh, Victoria Livermore, Tara Waldron, Stacey Corbally, Rachael McDon-

ald, Kayley Mannion, Michaela Gillooly, Dawn Killian, Bronagh Dolan. Congrats to all.

LUKE DALY MEMORIAL GOLF

CLASSIC: Creggs RFC’s annual golf classic took place on Saturday at Roscommon Golf Club (in great weather) with participants playing for the Luke Daly memorial trophy.

Some of Ireland’s greatest rugby players and golfers attended, where the eventual winners were Eddie Keane, Jackie Dempsey, Seamus Fallon and Andrew Prior with a huge score of 100 pts.

In second were Liam McNeill, Ross Shannon, Ollie McGuinness and PJ Moran with 96 pts and third were Dinny Monaghan’s team, also with 96. Thanks to everyone for attending and to John, Anthony and Albert for organising the rescheduled event.

BOYS U-12s: Creggs RFC U-12 boys re-

turned to training on Saturday at 4 pm. It was a lovely sunny afternoon and training was well attended. New members always welcome.

INTERPRO PLAYERS: Leo Anic started in the second row for Connacht U-19s in their game v Munster on Sunday in Virgin Media Park.

Sarah Purcell started at centre for the ﬁrst time for Connacht senior women’s team when they won against Ulster in Kingspan Stadium on Saturday. Jemima Adams Verling travelled as a reserve having played the previous week.

Ciara Corrigan and Isabelle Quinn started for the Connacht U-18 women in their game v Leinster in Dublin on Saturday afternoon. Mia White was named on the bench. Captain Siofra Hession sat out this game.

Congratulations

Well done to our girls U-18 team who played to the very end to secure their success in the Shield Final. After a bright start, the girls found themselves behind. They equalised before halftime.

Early in the second half, Vitoria Duarte slotted home her and Town’s second goal. A booming free-kick from Daniella Kerr found the net to give the team a nice cushion. The girls conceded again but a determined and resolute defence snuffed out any prospect of a Shiven equaliser.

The full-time whistle was greeted with relief and joy.

Well done to the girls and their coaches Olimpia and Paul.

On the Pitch

On Monday, our Town 2 U-14 team lifted the league trophy on home soil. They beat Moore in their ﬁnal league match. A 100% record. A great achievement.

A young Town 3 lost out to an older St John’s side in the early kick-off. Town 3 are scheduled to play their ﬁnal league match on Saturday.

On Tuesday, our Town 1 boys U-12 league-winning team were at home to Ballaghaderreen. Town 2 host Dunmore on Thursday evening.

On Wednesday, our 12s girls and 16s girls teams played at home to Lough

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

Harps and Castlerea, respectively. On Thursday, our young Town 1 boys U-16 team will round off their league campaign away to Dunmore.

On Friday evening, our boys CL1 team welcome Moylough. CL2 are away to Strokestown while CL3 are in

Dunmore. Our 9s girls host Ballaghaderreen and Kilkerrin on Sunday morning while our Town 1 U-9 boys also welcome the same clubs to the Sports Park. Town 2 are in Kilkerrin. Town 3 are in Ballinagare. Our boys U-18 team are at home to

Buoyed Buccs host Galwegians

Displaying commendable commitment and endeavour, Buccaneers surprised Corinthians 14-12 in their Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League fixture played at Corinthian Park, Galway last Saturday. Next up, Buccaneers host Galwegians in the third and final round of the Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League with the action taking place under the Dubarry Park floodlights this Friday night. Kick-off is at 7.30 pm.

Meanwhile, Buccaneers Seconds are scheduled to commence their season with a tough Cawley Cup tie away to Dunmore on Sunday. Kick-off at 2 pm.

U-18 INTERPROVINCIAL FINALS: The Girls U-18 Interprovincial ﬁnals, which attracted a bumper attendance last season, will again take place at Dubarry Park, Athlone, this Saturday. Connacht face Leinster in a repeat of last season’s decider.

FIRST GAME FOR WOMEN: Buccaneers’ revived women’s team travelled to Loughrea to play the newly-amalgamated SouthEast Warriors on Sunday. The scoreboard did not go their way but along with Sean, Tina and Sarah they did the club very proud in the first round of the Bank of Ireland Invitational Cup. With five beginner players to the sport, all players put their bodies on the line. Next game is on September 22nd at home against Ballinrobe. Kick-off 1 pm. Buccaneers: Dunja Bozic, Ava Cullen-Sweeney, Erin Giles, Jessica Hoey, Sharon Kennedy, Aoife Donoghue, Brooke Kiernan, Tina Kiernan, Emma Murray, Amy O’Connor and Sarah O’Rourke. U-16s: Buccaneers U-16s opened their season with a fine win against last year’s Leinster cup and league champions Newbridge at home on Sunday. Buccs played some fine attacking rugby in a 19-10 win. C O’Donoghue, M Doolan, C Doran, C Sylla, P Sunny, T Herron, A Costello, D Coffey, E Browne, E Friel, J Finnan, R O’Connor, S Lowe, E Carr, A Carlos, T Farrell, R Hughes, A Viktor, S O’Hara, M Fallon and B Roarke.

U-17s: U-17s also played Newbridge last weekend but lost 60-17.

of the day and celebrate Brazilian culture at its best.

In association with the

Kilkerrin on Saturday evening while our girls welcome Castlerea on Sunday evening.

Brazilian Day Roscommon (September 15th)

Check out their Instagram for details

Wise Words

“If everyone does a little, a lot will get done” – Ros Town Coach.

Club Store

Schools are getting back to full ﬂow again. Why not get some sports clothing for your child? Shop now on roscommontownyouthsoccer. ie and support the Town in style

Our Community. Our Children. Our Club.

Members of Buccaneers’ revived women’s team cool down in Loughrea Lake after their rst match, played last Sunday, against South-East Warriors.

Golf Classic presentation (l-r): Albert Looby (organiser), Adrian Leddy of the Creggs Committee, and Dr Martin Daly, presenting the prize to winners Eddie Keane, Andrew Prior, Jackie Dempsey and Seamus Fallon. Photo: Peter Daly

Shannon Gaels sink Kilbride

It felt like the end of an era on Sunday morning in Kilbride, as the club that completed a run of five senior titles in a row just four years ago lost their fifth game in this year’s Dermot Hughes Cars senior championship, thus confirming their relegation with one game still to play.

Shannon Gaels’ 4-5 to 2-7 win over the home side means that Fintan Cregg’s charges are still in with a chance of sneaking into the semi-ﬁnals in fourth position in the table, but they need Kilbride to do them a favour and secure at least a draw against Éire Óg in the one outstanding ﬁxture.

With Fiona Tully on a lot of ball in the ﬁrst half, Kilbride were extremely competitive for the opening 30 minutes and there was just a point between the sides at half-time, with a goal from Michaela Dunne helping to nudge Shannon Gaels into a minimal lead.

Sarah Boyd and Clara Tully traded goals at the start of the second half to keep the game in the balance, but the decision to switch Elaine McDermott back into defence proved crucial for the Croghan club as she steadied the ship for her side, and once Chloe Dunne joined her sister Michaela on the list of goalscorers, they were able to hold on. Éire Óg still have their fate in their own hands, but they passed up their first chance to confirm fourth spot in the group and a semi-final clash with St Brigid’s when they fell short by 2-12 to 0-12 in their home clash with St Dominic’s.

As she has been on several occasions this year, Aoife Gavin was the star of the show in the St Dominic’s attack, riﬂing in two ﬁrst-half goals and scoring 2-3 in total. Aimee O’Connor kicked six frees as well, and while Claire Flanagan (0-3) and Rebecca Finan (0-5) fared well up front for Éire Óg, they never threatened to score the goals they needed to get back in the game.

Boyle still had an outside chance of getting into the top four at the start of the day but they needed to upset Clann na nGael at Abbey Park in order to do so, and a heroic performance from Éadaoin Lennon in the Clann goal, along with 1-4 from Róise Lennon and 2-1 from Kara Earle up front, ensured they surrendered their title after a 4-7 to 0-8 defeat.

Michaela Ward kicked two points and played a key role as she and Caoimhe Cregg got the better of things at midﬁeld for the home side, but as has been the case all year, the absence of a couple of established leaders meant the county champions have gone through the year without touching the heights they reached in 2023.

INTERMEDIATE

In the Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant IFC, the game of the day was between St Ciarán’s and St Croan’s, where Ciara Dowd’s

tenth point of the afternoon ensured that St Ciarán’s edged a thriller, 0-13 to 1-9.

A goal from an Ella Thompson free was the key score as St Croan’s led by ﬁve at half-time, but the championship favourites turned the screw after the break and eventually took the lead in stoppage time.

It was a much more one-sided affair in Ballinlough, though there was no indication that this was coming at half-time when Martina Freyne’s goal was the difference between the sides, Western Gaels leading by 1-5 to 0-5. However the visitors cut loose after that to win by 5-15 to 1-9, meaning that the last four is conﬁrmed as St Ciarán’s, St

Croan’s, St Barry’s and Western Gaels, while Kilglass/Kilmore will be relegated, having conceded a walkover to St Barry’s to conclude their campaign.

JUNIOR

In the Leydon Brothers Junior Championship, St Faithleach’s picked up two ‘close call’ victories to sneak into the quarter-ﬁnal line-up, where they will play Northern Harps.

On Wednesday of last week they hosted Four Roads, who started well, but Ellen Irwin and Sarah Scally led the scoring in a 3-5 to 1-8 win for the Ballyleague club.

Clann na nGael were also in

the driving seat against St Faithleach’s in the game that was played on Saturday evening in Johnstown, but a stronger showing after the break meant it finished 2-12 to 3-7 in their favour. Clann will now play Oran in the other quarter-final, with St Mary’s and Pádraig Pearses through to the semi-finals as group winners. Please see http://roscommonlgfa.ie/fixtures-2024 for all updated fixtures and results. Roscommon LGFA would like to thank Dermot Hughes Cars, Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant, and Leydon Brothers for their generous sponsorship of the adult club championships in the county

Four Roads win Minor Hurling League

Minor Hurling League Final Four Roads 2-13 Tooreen 0-17

The Minor Hurling League Final between Four Roads and Tooreen was a thrilling contest, marked by ﬁerce competition and impressive skill, despite challenging underfoot conditions.

Four Roads edged out Tooreen by a narrow margin on a ﬁnal scoreline of 2-13 to 0-17.

A late point from play by Cathal Kennedy ensured Four Roads secured victory, sealing the win and the Michael Cox Memorial Cup.

Conor Morris was deservedly named ‘Man of the Match’ for his outstanding performance, contributing a remarkable 2-9 of Four Roads’ total.

Despite the defeat, Tooreen can hold their heads high after a spirited performance in what was a truly entertaining ﬁnal.

Four Roads panel: David Mannion, Sean Mannion, Adam

Kenny, Sean McDonnell, Ethan Kelly (0-1), Rory Coyle (0-1), Oisín Hynes, Jamie Kelly (C), Daniel Bolger (0-1), Eoghan Morris, Evan Allen, Oisín Finneran, Cathal Kennedy (0-1), Conor Morris (2-9; 1-8 frees, 1 ‘65) Conor Flynn, Jack McDonnell, Aaron Delaney, Eoin Gately, Eoghan Mulry, Micheal Dunning, Roan Trundle, Sean Scott, Gavin Meares, Eoin Dolan. Management: Mick Morris, Damien Lohan. Tooreen panel: Micheal Dee, Pierce Keadin, Darragh Ganley, Cullen Glavey, Oisín Casey (0 1, f), Matthew Delaney (0-4, fs), Cathal Forde, Cillian Mooney (0-1), Shane Gallagher, David Delaney (0-1), Fionnan Burke (0-2), Brian Greally, Ian Murray (0-1), Fionn Delaney (0-5, 1f), Dylan Groarke (0-2 fs), Ryan Giblin, Keith Flanagan, Con Delaney, Dylan Greally, Dylan

Daragh Mulrennan, Jake

Management: Michael Lynskey, Austin Kenny, Brian Delaney, Sean Greally.

Hunt,

Powers.

Pictured are the victorious Four Roads minor panel members and team management.

Éire Óg’s Claire Flanagan (pictured in action against Boyle earlier this season) scored 0-3 against St Dominic’s last weekend. File photo: Bernie O’Farrell

< KEVIN EGAN

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

The man who can’t stop scoring

It’s not that long since it was generally accepted that a player who scored an average of one goal every two games in English football was considered a proliﬁc goalscorer – and hot property.

The 20-goal-a-season man has always been much sought after. Granted, the odd 30-goal-aseason player – such as Alan Shearer or Andy Cole – was in even more demand. But a player who could deliver even 20-odd goals in a league campaign was always greatly respected.

Which brings me to Erling Haaland. He really is rewriting the goalscoring records. Just to put his remarkable net-bulging exploits into perspective, consider this: if Haaland doesn’t score in any of his next 13 league games for Manchester City… he will still be on an average of one goal every two games this season.

That’s because goal machine Haaland has hit eight goals (including two hat-tricks) in City’s ﬁrst three games of the new Premier League campaign. So, no goal in his next 13 games would still mean he’d have scored eight in his ﬁrst 16 games. In reality, he’ll probably be bearing down on that famous old ‘20 goals a season’ target by game number 13 – with 25 league games to go!

Favourite sports books over the years

On X/Twitter, someone asked for people to submit lists of their favourite ever sports books. I’ve kept my off the cuff/’from memory’ list exclusively for readers of this column! So, here goes…

A number of years ago, I brought A Good Walk Spoiled: Days and Nights on the PGA Tour (John Feinstein) on holiday to France, and it certainly lived up to its reputation.

A William Hill Sports Book of the Year winner,

this is a riveting behind-the-scenes, warts and all insight into the cut-throat world of the US professional golf circuit. Focussed mainly on one year (1993) ‘A Good Walk Spoiled’ brilliantly captures the ﬁercely competitive nature of professional golf, casting a light on the incredibly thin margin between superstardom and crushed dreams.

Hundreds of books have been written about boxing icon Muhammad Ali, and I’ve read a few of them. As with George Best and Alex Higgins biographies, I ﬁnd it hard to resist a new book on Ali, even if each new one inevitably covers much the same ground as those that have gone before. Three of the best are King of the world: Muhammad Ali and the rise of an American hero (David Remnick); Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times (Thomas Hauser), and The Fight (Norman Mailer), the latter concentrating on Ali’s legendary showdown with George Foreman in Zaire in 1974.

I’ve read numerous soccer books over the years. Amongst those that stood out were David Peace’s epic Red or Dead, a 720-page reimagining of the life and times of the great Liverpool manager Bill Shankly. The writing style adopted by Peace was

very original, but may grate with some readers. Basically the book is a ﬁctional portrait of Shankly, with the author imagining the everyday life of the great man in slow, repetitive prose. Overall, I very much enjoyed it.

Peace also wrote the acclaimed The Damned United, about Brian Clough’s ill-fated short tenure as manager of Leeds United (another excellent book). This gifted author has just published a new book (Munichs) on the aftermath of the Munich air disaster in 1958 which claimed the lives of 20 people, including eight Manchester United players.

Eamon Dunphy’s Only a Game? The Diary of a Professional Footballer was a pioneering book when ﬁrst published (in 1987) and it quickly achieved the status of being described as a classic. I read Only a Game? many years ago and loved it. Eamon’s account of his time as a professional footballer at Millwall, it’s a brilliant read.

The First Game with My Father is a beautifully written, poignant account by Michael Tierney about a mutual love of soccer, and a son’s relationship with his father – and with a very moving twist too.

I’m always keeping an eye out for books on the golden era of snooker (1970s-1980s, in my view!) and two I particularly enjoyed many years ago were Donald Trelford’s Snookered, and Pocket Money by Gordon Burn.

Paul Kimmage’s Rough Ride (1990) is the Irish journalist’s raw account of how he fell in love with cycling – but also an expose on how drugs began to undermine the sport.

I’ve read a few GAA biographies over the years. Two that stood out were The Choice by Philly McMahon – in which the much-decorated Dublin footballer movingly writes of losing his brother John to addiction – and Until Victory Always, the memoir of Donegal manager Jim McGuinness. There are many more great sports books that I could mention, so I will return to this subject at a later stage. Enjoying a good book remains one of life’s great joys. Our lives don’t have to be dictated by our smartphones!

Break point…

Kazakhstan tennis star Yulia Putintseva woke on Saturday morning knowing that she would be in US Open action later that day (against Jasmine Paolini).

A ‘ball girl’ woke up that same morning knowing she would be ‘on duty’ during the third round match… an exciting prospect for any young girl or boy.

Unfortunately, when the match took place, Putintseva treated the ball girl very rudely (the episode quickly went viral on social media).

In routine fashion, the ball girl stood in front of Putintseva to toss her a few balls prior to the player serving. In the usual manner, she stood a few feet from the player, lobbing the ball to her. When the girl threw ball number one, Putintseva ignored it, letting the ball drift to one side. When the girl threw a second ball, the player remained standing still, making no effort to catch it. As the bizarre behaviour continued, Putintseva ﬁnally (but derisively) caught the third ball. The ball girl, to her credit, responded with a bewildered outstretching of her hands.

Putintseva, who lost the match, later apologised, a touch unconvincingly in my opinion (at least she said sorry). The player claimed she was frustrated at the time, having just passed up an opportunity to win a game against her opponent.

“I want to apologise to the ball girl for the way I was, when she was giving me balls. Honestly speaking it was not about her.

“I was really pi**ed at myself by not winning the game from the break point and then got empty with my emotions and deep in my thoughts, that I was not even focusing on what’s going on and who gives me the ball. All the ball kids were doing amazing – as always at the Open”.

Anyone can make a mistake or misjudgement, but it was an unseemly episode. Manners cost nothing.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Castlerea’s Heather Joyce scores her 3rd goal in Tuesday night’s Roscommon U-16 Football Championship semi- nal against Strokestown in Strokestown. Castlerea won by 6-12 to 3-12. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Éire Óg supporters James O’Brien and Shannon Malone were cheering their team on against Creggs in the Roscommon IFC recently. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

That was the weekend that was:

< SEAMUS DUKE

SFC (Group A)

Oran ﬁnally threw off the shackles in Strokestown on Friday night and played some delightful attacking football as they put a disappointing Castlerea side to the sword in a very one-sided encounter played in perfect weather conditions, Oran winning by 4-16 to 0-6.

In the other game in Group A Roscommon Gaels coasted to an impressive 2-19 to 0-9 win against Tulsk in Tarmonbarry to tie up top spot in the group.

Goals from Peter Gillooly and Richard Walsh in the opening half saw the Gaels ahead by 2-4 to 0-4 at halftime and the town side maintained their advantage to the end.

The results mean that Roscommon Gaels top the group and will be joined in the quarter-ﬁnals by

Oran onslaught crushes Castlerea

WALSH LEADS WAY WITH SUPER DISPLAY

Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon

SFC (Group A)

Oran 4-16

Castlerea St Kevin’s 0-6

< SEAMUS DUKE

With Roscommon Gaels defeating Tulsk in the other game in the group, Castlerea survived to ﬁnish third but they will have to improve on this display if they are to make any further progress in this year’s championship.

After ﬁve minutes of this encounter the scores were level at 0-2 each, a scenario which hinted that a very competitive and close encounter was about to ensue. But incredibly, Castlerea were not to score for another 38 minutes as Oran proceeded to run riot.

With Darragh Walsh having his best game in some time, and with Thomas Featherston, Colin Walsh, Ciaran Lawless, Shane Walsh, Charlie Carthy and Micheal Hussey all outstanding too, Oran produced some excellent scores to build up a handsome lead.

Oran scored ﬁve points without reply (three from Darragh Walsh) be-

Oran. Castlerea St Kevin’s go into a play-off while Tulsk will contest the relegation scrap.

SFC (Group B)

Most competitive game of the weekend was in Ballyforan where Michael Glaveys prevailed against St Faithleach’s by 3-6 to 1-8. There were three red cards (two for St Faithleach’s) during the match. Darragh Heneghan scored a goal and was shown a red card for Glaveys in the opening half, at the end of which they led by 1-4 to 0-6.

Johnny Hussey was shown a second yellow card early in the second half. The sides exchanged goals through Cathal Heneghan (Glaveys) and Dave Rooney (Faithleach’s) but the decisive score came late on as Dylan Ruane was on target with a ﬁne goal to send his side directly into the quarter-ﬁnals.

In the other game in the group St Brigid’s put their full

array of skills on display in a 5-15 to 0-6 win against Western Gaels at Lisnamult. John Cunningham, Shane Cunnane, Brian Derwin and Paul McGrath all scored ﬁrst-half goals as the championship favourites led 4-6 to 0-4 at half-time.

Conor Hand scored St Brigid’s ﬁfth goal in the second half and the Kiltoom-based club now go into the quarter-ﬁnals with three good wins under their belt. Glaveys are second in the group while St Faithleach’s will be in the play-offs. Western Gaels must now contest the relegation play-offs.

SFC (Group C)

Clann na nGael consolidated top spot with an impressive 4-19 to 1-12 win against St Dominic’s in Knockcroghery. Pat Fallon’s men were 2-10 to 0-6 ahead at half-time, helped by goals from Emmet Kenny and Josh Lennon. Paddy Gavin added two goals for Clann in the second half.

fore their first goal arrived in the 22nd minute when Shane Walsh finished off an excellent five-man move. Then in the 28th minute Ciaran Lawless was on hand to finish another incisive Oran attack, and by the interval Oran led by 2-9 to 0-2.

The second half was only a minute old when Oran struck for goal number three. This time it was corner-forward Eoghan Murray who was on target. Even at that stage the match was over as a contest.

Castlerea were too dependent on Adam McDermott for scores and when he was well marked their threat was greatly reduced. As it was, Oran kept up their attacking play and on 50 minutes sub Michael Harrington shot low and hard to the Castlerea net for another Oran goal. After a couple of lacklustre displays this was an excellent performance from Sean Staunton’s men and now the trick will be for them to repeat this form in a quarter-ﬁnal. This talented side have not been able to get over the quarterﬁnal hurdle since they came back to the senior ranks and that must be the aim for them now.

Castlerea will be happy to have preserved their senior status in their ﬁrst year back in the top grade, but will have to improve hugely on this display if they are to progress further in the years to come.

Oran: Ciaran Casey; Jack Casey, Thomas Featherston, Kevin Concannon; Cormac Regan, Cathal Kenny, Mike Staunton; Ciaran Lawless (1-0), Colin Walsh (0-1); Micheal Hussey, Darragh Walsh (0-9, 5 frees), Charlie Carthy (02); Mike Dwyer, Shane Walsh (1-3), Eoghan Murray (1-1). Subs: Michael Harrington (1-0) for Concannon (49), Connie Regan for Hussey (55), K Concannon for Lawless (57).

Castlerea St Kevin’s: David Farrell; Jack Keane, David Quinn, Thomas Callaghan; Padraig Joyce, Sean Joyce, Michael Kelly; Peter Farrell, Jonathan Hester (0-1); Shane Keenan, Aaron McDermott, Darren McDermott; Seamus Stenson, Adam McDermott (0-2), Colm McDermott (0-2, 1 free). Subs: John Curran (0-1) for M Kelly (h/t), Ciaran

Oran’s Charlie Carthy during last weekend’s game against Castlerea St Kevin’s. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Lyons for D McDermott (h/t), John Farrell for P Joyce (42), Eoghan Soares for C McDermott (42), Niall Connaughton for D Farrell (53). Referee: Aaron Clogher. Man of the Match Darragh Walsh (Oran)

Colm Walsh in action for Oran during his team’s comfortable win over Castlerea St Kevin’s in the Roscommon SFC last weekend. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

championship highs and lows

The game of the weekend in the senior championship was in Woodmount where Padraig Pearses beat Boyle by 1-13 to 1-10. Daire Cregg scored a goal for Boyle in the first half to help his side to a share of the spoils by the interval, 1-4 to 0-7. Niall Daly was outstanding for the home side, who pulled away in the second half. Conor Ryan fisted home a crucial goal in the 45th minute. Clann top Group C and Padraig Pearses also go into the quarter-finals. Boyle are in the play-offs while St Dominic’s will contest the relegation play-offs.

Note: In the SFC quarter-ﬁnal play-offs this weekend Boyle will play Castlerea St Kevin’s while St Faithleach’s will play North Roscommon on Tuesday. The top seeds for the quarter-ﬁnals will be Roscommon Gaels, St Brigid’s and Clann na nGael and they will be joined by Oran. Padraig

Pearses and Michael Glaveys will be joined by the play-off winners as second seeds.

IFC (Group A)

Elphin ﬁnished top of the group after a comprehensive 1-14 to 1-3 win against Shannon Gaels. In the other game in this group there was a dramatic ﬁnish as Kilbride scored three late points to beat Padraig Pearses by a point, 1-10 to 0-12.

Elphin and Shannon Gaels are through to the quarter-ﬁnals. Kilbride are in the play-offs while Padraig Pearses will contest the relegation playoffs.

IFC (Group B)

In the local derby at Lisnamult, Fuerty were the stronger side as they defeated Creggs by 1-13 to 1-6. In the other game in the group Éire Óg conﬁrmed their status in top spot with a 3-12 to 0-12 win against St Croan’s.

Éire Óg and Fuerty are through to the quarterﬁnals, Creggs will contest the play-off, while St Croan’s will compete in the relegation play-offs.

IFC (Group C)

Championship favourites Strokestown were given a fright by St Brigid’s before emerging the 1-11 to 1-7 winners to secure top spot in the group. In the other game there was drama aplenty as Kilmore and St Michael’s drew 1-8 apiece.

That result means that Strokestown and Kilmore will go into the quarter-ﬁnals, St Brigid’s will contest the play-offs while St Michael’s will be in the relegation play-offs.

Note: The top seeds in the IFC are Elphin, Strokestown and Éire Óg and they will be joined by Kilmore. Second seeds are St Brigid’s and Creggs while Padraig Pearses and Kilbride will play off this weekend.

‘Daly Star’ inspirational for impressive Pearses

Hodson Bay Group

Roscommon SFC

Padraig Pearses 1-13

Boyle 1-10

< KEVIN EGAN

An important caveat that must always be borne in mind when digesting postmatch interviews is to remember that everything that is said, is said for a reason.

So when Frank Canning said after last Saturday’s game in Woodmount that “the winner isn’t taking all today, we’ll probably meet them later on in the year”, he was conveying the message that if this was an old Dracula movie, we’re only an hour in just yet. Even if it seems that the villain has been slain, there’s another resurrection or two to come yet.

Likewise, Cian Smith was upbeat, as he declared that “Pearses are a very well drilled side… we beat them by a point last year and today they beat us by three, there’s nothing between us”. No doubt his thinking was to try and ensure his players kept the faith, particularly with knockout championship football coming down the tracks very quickly.

However, the truth is that if Saturday’s hour of action is anything to go by, there is a little bit between these two teams, and it’s far from certain that there will be a rematch. Three points may have been the margin, but Pearses missed a lot more chances, including three outstanding goal opportunities; they enjoyed a lot more possession, and when it came to contentious umpiring calls and indeed the allocation of black and red cards, Boyle got everything that was going.

Undoubtedly, there is more in the North Roscommon club. Daire Cregg picked up right where he left off before his summer in Boston, rattling off 1-3 from play, all in the first 20 minutes. Teenagers Niall O’Donnell and Conor Kelly were impressive too, and Oisín Cregg fired over two points, but after that, Boyle’s leading lights misfired to varying degrees.

Boyle manager Cian Smith remained upbeat after the ﬁnal whistle: “Pearses are a very well drilled side… we beat them by a point last year and today they beat us by three, there’s nothing between us”. File photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Enda Smith did well to set up Cregg’s goal and to fire over a good long-range second-half point, but he was nowhere near as influential as he can be, or as his brother (Cian, Boyle’s manager) needs him to be if he’s to guide this club to their first senior title in almost a century. Brother number three, Donie, was involved in as many flashpoints and confrontations as attacks, and unlike Cregg, Cian McKeon came back and looked like a player who still needs a lot of football to get close to his potential.

For Pearses, a lot more of the pieces are in place. They trailed by 1-4 to 0-5 after 20 minutes of playing with the

wind, but they were very strong on their own kickout and in pressuring Boyle on theirs, and had ﬁve different scorers from play at that stage. Niall Daly and Conor Ryan were dominant in the middle, Niall Carty was revelling in his free role – as he did against St Dominic’s – and Jack Tumulty and Eoin Colleran looked capable of exploding into life at any time.

The second of Niall Daly’s four points from play levelled things at half-time, and while Boyle kicked two of the ﬁrst three points of the second half, Pearses were able to ﬁnd another gear then as they needed it.

Bay Hotel SFC play-offs

< SEAMUS DUKE

This Saturday in Frenchpark (6 pm) Boyle face Castlerea St Kevin’s for a place in the Roscommon SFC quarter-ﬁnals, and on form Boyle must be the choice to advance.

With Cian McKeon and Daire Cregg back in action for Cian Smith’s team, the beaten county ﬁnalists of the last two seasons look to have too much ﬁrepower for a Castlerea side who were well beaten by Oran last weekend.

There are two play-off games taking place on Tuesday, September 10th next. North Roscommon play St Faithleach’s at Lisnamult (8 pm) with a quarter-ﬁnal place up for grabs. The amalgamated side will be hoping to cause an upset but St Faithleach’s should be good enough to advance.

St Dominic’s face Tulsk in a relegation play-off, also on Tuesday night. This one will be played in Strokestown (8 pm). There is unlikely to be much between the sides. I take St Dominic’s to edge it by a point or two.

Seán Canning’s introduction gave them an injection of pace, and while they got a stroke of luck for the equaliser with Rob Kearney spilling a harmless high ball to allow Conor Ryan to point the 45, Ryan’s immaculate punch on Declan Kenny’s high ball to ﬁnd the net was nothing to do with luck and all about perfect technique.

Eoin Colleran and Niall Daly added the next two points and though they missed goal chances of their own and conceded two frees to leave just a goal between the teams, their robust defence never looked like leaking a second green ﬂag.

Eight minutes of stoppage time meant that Mark Richardson got ﬁve minutes after coming on with 63 on the clock, and he won a ferociously contested breaking ball to help seal the deal, in the process giving one last indication that the men in red are getting stronger and stronger with every game.

Pádraig Pearses: Paul Whelan; Niall Carty, Gavin Downey, Conor Lohan (0-1); Declan Kenny, Caelim Keogh, Conor Harley; Conor Ryan (1-2, 0-1 45), Niall Daly (0-4); Conor Daly, Ronan Daly (0-2, 0-1f), Paul Carey; Eoin Colleran (0-2, 0-1f), Jack Tumulty (01), Jack Nevin. Subs used: Seán Canning for Nevin (40), Adam McGreal (0-1) for Tumulty (51), Lorcán Daly for N Daly (56), Emmet Kelly for Colleran (60), Mark Richardson for Lohan (60+3).

Boyle: Rob Kearney; David Flanagan, Conor Kelly (0-1), Daniel Casey; Killian Cox, Tadhg McKenna, Oisín Cregg (0-2); Enda Smith (0-1), Roch Hanmore; Niall O’Donnell (0-1f), Seán Purcell, Cian McKeon; Daire Cregg (13), Donie Smith (0-2f), Cathal Feely. Subs used: Luke McGrath for Hanmore (56), David Duggan for McKenna (60+3), Marc O’Connor for O’Donnell (60+3).

Referee: Brendan Healy (St Faithleach’s).

Man of the Match: Niall Daly

GAA results

Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC (Group A)

Roscommon Gaels 2-19 Tulsk Lord Edwards 0-9

Oran 4-16 Castlerea St Kevin’s 0-6

Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC (Group B)

St Brigid’s 5-15 Western Gaels 0-6 Michael Glaveys 3-6 St Faithleach’s 1-8 Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC (Group C) Clann na nGael 4-19 St Dominic’s 1-12 Pádraig Pearses 1-13 Boyle 1-10

J Keane & Sons Ltd IFC (Group A)

Kilbride 1-10 Pádraig Pearses 0-12 Elphin 1-14 Shannon Gaels 1-3 J Keane & Sons Ltd IFC (Group B) Éire Óg

Sports PEOPLE

Four Roads likely to end Gaels’ great run

Kepak Roscommon SHC semi-ﬁnal on Sunday in Ballyforan: Four Roads v Roscommon Gaels at 1 pm

 SEAMUS DUKE

It’s not too often that we get to preview Roscommon Gaels in a county senior hurling semi-ﬁnal, but the town team are there on merit this year after an excellent campaign. The Gaels’ group would be the ﬁrst to admit that playing the champions is a

step up on any opposition they have faced before now.

Ronan O’Meara’s side have been superb in the championship so far. They are a physical side, and also a team that has some very skillful players. If they hit form, those players can cause Four Roads problems.

I was especially impressed by the Gaels’ halfforward line in their recent games. Richard Walsh, Ryan Conlon and Finn Killion are all adept at scoring and if they can get enough ball they can make

their mark. Finn Killion is a superb free-taker. Brendan Quinn (also a free-taker) has had a great year between the posts while Tim Gilmore, Chris Duignan and James Connolly have been very good in defence. Aodha Hession may well start at midﬁeld and Mark Purcell was very impressive when introduced as a sub against Tremane. Four Roads are the long odds-on favourites, and deservedly so too. They have not over-extended themselves in this championship yet and as ever, they have many talented players in their ranks.

Fallon,

and Conor

are just some of the top performers available to the defending champions. This is a ‘free hit’ for Roscommon Gaels. Neutrals have no expectation of them winning on Sunday. They will come in under the radar and will give it everything. Four Roads will win this semi-ﬁnal, but maybe not by as much as people are expecting.

Prediction: Four Roads.

St Dominic’s firepower to map path to final?

Kepak Roscommon SHC semi-ﬁnal on Sunday in Ballyforan: Athleague v St Dominic‘s at 3 pm

St Dominic’s have been a surprise package in this year’s championship and are in the last four after some spectacular

performances. One thing is for certain: when they are on song, Dominic’s can put up quite a tally of scores. Mickey Joe Egan, Naos Connaughton, Jack Lohan and Conall Kennelly have all been excellent for the Knockcroghery men and they have put up some im-

pressive totals on their way to the last four. Athleague have been doing just enough in their games so far. En route to this semi-ﬁnal, they came late to win in both games against Oran. Ben McGahon is their key man from the placed ball while Darragh Mullen,

Eoghan Coyle, Cormac Kelly, Oisin Lyons and Cian Murray will be hoping to play important roles on Sunday. There is an element of inconsistency to both sides. St Dominic’s were beaten by four points by Oran, and Athleague were defeated by Tremane – who scored 6-12

against them – so this is a hard game to call.

I am going to give a hesitant nod to St Dominic’s to win narrowly as their attack looks a little more potent than Athleague’s. Prediction: St Dominic’s.

The chase is on! Roscommon Gaels’ senior hurlers are having a very positive season, but face their toughest test yet when they meet defending champions Four Roads in Sunday’s semi- nal. Our le photo is from earlier this summer when the teams met… Liam Og Coyle of Four Roads and David Hough of Roscommon Gaels were pictured in action in Lisnamult. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Noel

James Dillon, Adam Donnelly, Tommy Morris, Conor Coyle, Brendan Mulry

Mulry