07 June 2024 Roscommon People

Aengus Oates Financial Services

Plan your future today

Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358 info@oates.ie • www.oates nancialservices.ie

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

HIRE PURCHASE AGREEMENT

I bought a car two years ago and I am paying for it by way of a hire purchase agreement which I signed with my bank. I recently lost my job and I can no longer afford to make the payments. I only used my car for work so I no longer need it. What can I do?

Hire purchase is an agreement allowing a consumer to hire goods by paying agreed installments for an agreed time period. The agreement is signed by the consumer (the hirer) and the lending institution (the owner). If there is a retailer involved, e.g., a garage, it also signs the agreement and supplies the goods in question. The person does not actually own the goods until the last installment is paid, although he or she has full use of the goods throughout the repayment period.

A consumer can terminate the agreement at any time by giving notice in writing to the lending institution but penalties will be applied for breaking the agreement early.

The Half Rule Process is a consumer friendly rule allowing a consumer to end a hire purchase agreement if they have paid half of the hire purchase price. The consumer must return the goods and give notice, in writing, that they are ending the agreement. The consumer should check the hire purchase agreement to ascertain exactly what amounts to half of the hire purchase price. The consumer will also be responsible for any repairs and any arrears owing.

The half rule process benefits consumers in that it will not affect a consumer’s credit rating unlike if they voluntarily surrendered the goods or if the goods were repossessed by the lending institution.

With PAUL HEALY

I see Donald Trump was trumped…

Yes…

He’s a disgrace!

Well, millions of people support him… A rogue, who cares not a whit for the rule of law!

Nah, Donald’s just an eccentric guy…

He’s a scoundrel!

It’s just that we’ve never seen a public figure quite like ‘The Donald’ before… the jury’s still out on him…

That’s the point! The jury’s NOT still out! The jury’s back! And they found Donald Trump guilty! On all 34 charges!

He’s going down! You’ll never hear from that guy again!

I think not! It hasn’t affected his poll ratings! You do realise he’s running for President again, in November?

From a prison cell? How’s that gonna work?

He probably won’t be going to prison. More like a fine! Anyways, he’s appealing… Appealing? Donald Trump’s certainly not appealing to me!

(They pause to update their files of all election leaflets received through their respective letter boxes, keeping them in alphabetical order)

Less than 24 hours to the election, and I can’t believe you’re not on the ballot paper… after all your talk over the years! Did you expect me to run in the local elections or for the European Parliament?

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

It’s irrelevant now! You weren’t brave enough!

Not true! In the end, I just didn’t fancy all the travelling…

I know, Strasbourg, Brussels… No, I meant if I ran in the local election! I wasn’t keen on travelling to public meetings and launches and funerals the full length of the Roscommon Municipal

District!

WATCHING People

‘I see Donald Trump was trumped… and why aren’t you on the ballot paper?’

Huh! Some would-be politician you turned out to be!

Thank you! Actually, I did consider running in the European Elections, but that field is so big, I decided against it in the end!

I know! If people vote 1 to 27, there’ll be queues out the door!

I’ve decided to bide my time.

All hail the great procrastinator! Let’s be serious for a moment…

(Editor: ‘If only…’)

So…

Point is, you and I need to plan our move…

OUR move?

If we’re going to set up a new political party, we need structures in place. Candidates. Finance. PR.

Policy?

Oh yeah, maybe develop policy too. Then we strike… when the time is right! We’ve missed the boat! The elections are this Friday!

But there’s a bigger one coming up! The General Election! That could be the one for us! We could rock the system!

Mmnn…

After all, we’re very popular on this page! Are we?

Of course we are!

I dunno… whatever about Trump… the jury’s still out on that one!

It’s

been a GOOD week for…

Offaly hurling, with the ‘Faithful County’ winning their first ever All-Ireland U-20 title, defeating Tipperary in a thrilling final

Scottish golfer Robert MacIntyre, who won his first PGA Tour title, the Canadian Open, with a remarkable bonus being that his father, Dougie, was caddying for him 28-year old singer Sydnie Christmas, who won the final of ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent (receiving a prize of £250,000)

Ballyforan woman Rachel Hastings, who was crowned the 2024 Rose of Roscommon last Saturday night (she will now represent the county in the International Rose of Tralee event)

It’s been a BAD week for…

Allianz National Football League champions Derry, with a team that had been tipped as possible contenders for the All-Ireland title being crushed by Armagh in their round robin group game, setting up Mickey Harte’s men for an upcoming win-or-bust tie against Westmeath

PIC OF THE WEEK: Cillian Smith pictured with Fionn and Sally Conboy at Dr Hyde Park

last Saturday ahead of the All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two clash between Roscommon and Mayo. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Voters go to polls on Friday

See pages 27-30

Voters across County Roscommon and nationwide will go the polls this Friday, June 7th, to cast their votes in the local and European elections.

Polling stations across the country will open at 7 am on Friday and close at 10 pm that night.

There are eighteen seats up for grabs on Roscommon County Council, with 37 candidates seeking election across the municipal districts of Athlone, Boyle and Roscommon, with six seats available in each area.

Meanwhile, 27 candidates are contesting the MidlandsNorth-West constituency in the European Elections, also taking place on Friday. There are five European Parliament seats available in this constituency.

The counting of votes for the local elections will take place at the Hyde Centre in Roscommon town, which is the designated count centre for County Roscommon, commencing on Saturday morning, June 8th

The European Election count for the Midlands-NorthWest constituency will be held in Castlebar, County Mayo.

Gleeson’s listed in ‘100

Best Places to Stay in Ireland this Summer’

Gleeson’s Townhouse in Roscommon has been included in a Sunday Times list of the ‘100 Best Places To Stay in Ireland this Summer’.

The landmark family-run business located on The Square in Roscommon town has been featured alongside such renowned venues as Mount Juliet Estate, Ashford Castle and The K Club.

The feature, in the Sunday Times last weekend, said of Gleeson’s: “Gleeson’s Hotel, a listed townhouse in the heart of Roscommon town, is a principal player in the

region’s hospitality industry, thanks to the delightful welcome the family guarantees its guests. Along with its delicious menus and elegant interior, the hotel is 45 km from the daring exploits available in Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, which include ziplining and electric cycling. Subterranean adventure can be found in Arigna Mining Experience, which sensitively tells the story of Ireland’s coalmining industry”. It’s the latest national accolade – of many – for the popular premises in the heart of the county town.

Gleeson’s Townhouse, Roscommon town.

Hospice Sunflower Days 2024 takes place this weekend

Together for Hospice, the National Hospice Movement’s Sunflower Days campaign, which raises money through street collection for Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, is taking place this year on Friday, June 7th, and Saturday, June 8th

Volunteers will be taking to the streets all across Mayo and Roscommon to sell sunflower merchandise to help raise vital funds for Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation.

The public can also show their support for their by dedicating a virtual sunflower online in memory of a loved one, whilst making a donation. And there is still time for schools to register to host a Sunflower FUN Day before the end of June. All details around the campaign can be found at sunflowerdays.ie.

Hospice and specialist palliative homecare services need to raise approximately €20 million each year to provide their patient-centred care, and as our population ages, demand for specialist hospice and palliative homecare services continues to grow. They rely on funding raised through donations and fundraising campaigns, such as Hospice Sunflower Days, to help them to continue to provide this care and support.

Every euro raised locally stays locally, so by donating online or supporting the on-street collection, you are really helping your local hospice or homecare service by allowing them to fund their services, upgrade facilities, and/or purchase new equipment.

You can support the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation by donating to the on-street volunteers on Friday, June 7th, or Saturday, June 8th, or by dedicating a virtual sunflower today at sunflowerdays.ie.

Pictured at the launch of this year’s campaign is Hospice Sun ower Days Ambassador, Miriam O’Callaghan.

THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT

LOSS PLAN RETURNS TO ROSCOMMON

LOSE UP TO 2 STONE IN 10 WEEKS

Clinics available in Carrick on Shannon and Roscommon town

The TRUTH is there are 3 keys to a genuine weight loss (real fat loss) plan - diet, exercise and metabolism correction. All 3 keys interconnect, one will not work without the other. Your metabolism is the most powerful of all the 3 keys. It is the ‘switch’ that controls everything else.

In most people this ‘switch’ is off.

Metabolism problems like Slow Thyroid, Type 2 Diabetes, Sluggish Liver, Hormone Imbalances, PCOS, Endometriosis, Infertility and Digestive Problems like Constipation, IBS and Diverticulitis will limit or stop your weight loss, no matter how much dieting or exercise you do .

Work on fixing your metabolism problems for amazing results. Combine this with a reasonable diet and exercise and you will get the best, the fastest and the easiest weight loss ever.

THE SYSTEM 10 PLAN INCLUDES:

• An analysis of your metabolism

•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.

•Nutritional supplement recommendations to rapidly repair your system.

•Private weigh-ins, motivational tips and support throughout the programme.

• We can guarantee that every pound you lose is a pound of fat (you don’t lose water or muscle like most plans).

You will lose 2-3lbs every week and because our programme is designed to speed up your metabolism, you will keep the weight off when you finish your plan. Programmes available for men and women.

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

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY

At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

Cllr. MARTY

M c DERMOTT

Dear Voter,

and indeed my

In humbly asking for your number one vote on Friday, I pledge to work on behalf of all the people of our

Working very hard for the people of my constituency and would rea y appreciate your support – thank you!

It has been an absolute privilege for me to represent you over the last ve years, since being elected to Roscommon County Council in 2019. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for your kindness and courtesy over those years.

I have really enjoyed working for the entire electoral area over this period, and if re-elected on June 7th I pledge to work harder again going forward. I’ve worked on a number of key projects since being elected and there are many more projects that I wish to progress on behalf of the people if I am fortunate enough to be re-elected this Friday. As the campaign draws to a close, I want to thank you for your courtesy and engagement on my canvass over the past 12 weeks. I believe I am the only poster-free candidate in the Roscommon LEA. I also want to thank my Director of Elections, Bernie Kearney, and my

THURSDAY

Prison preview…

Imagine being a cellmate of Donald Trump’s?

The former US President and Republican candidate for the 2024 election was convicted in New York today, deemed guilty on all 34 charges of falsifying business records. Sentencing of Trump, the first US President to be convicted of a crime, will take place on July 11th, and while he is not expected to receive a prison sentence, imagine if he does

Day One (of cell sharing): ‘Hi ya doin’… name’s Donald, Donald J Trump, but you can call me Mr President! I dunno what you’re in for, but my trial was very, very corrupt! It was the biggest corrupt trial in history! Anyways, you and I are going to be cellmates, and it’s going to be great! Here’s how it’s going to work. I need you to pretend to be Joe Biden, and I’m gonna rehearse my debates with you all day long! It’s gonna be great! And instead of going to the exercise yard, you and I are going to watch re-runs of The Apprentice in the TV room! Hey, here’s a prison officer… can you tell him he’ll be changing our menu to burgers and coke…’

Cellmate (pleading): ‘Hey, officer! Can I have solitary confinement? Now! Please!’

FRIDAY

Er, shock news…

In shock (but unconfirmed) news just in, no RTE ‘star’ has, at time of writing, announced today that they are moving from the station, having a baby, or merely switching to another programme. The mood in the RTE social media department is said to be one of “utter devastation”. Normally by lunchtime on a given day, some RTE ‘personality’ or a C-list celebrity somewhere would have made a ‘major’ announcement as to the

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A column by Roscommon People editor paul@roscommonpeople.ie

latest riveting milestone in their life and times.

An ashen-faced reporter in the RTE newsroom confided: “We’re in total shock. Obviously we expect three or four high profile stories about RTE DJs/presenters every day, but there isn’t even a hint of a ‘stepping down’ or a ‘moving on’ or even a ‘hissy fit’ yet today. It’s really weird”.

The young reporter, clutching a life-sized cut-out of the 2 Johnnies, and wearing a ‘Zamparelli for President’ t-shirt, said he only joined the newsroom so he could report on internal ‘musical chairs’ at the station, that and the odd spat between influencers promoting topics like ‘Banana bread or carrot cake. Which is easiest to make?’.

Clearly perturbed, he added: “I’ve resorted to checking if any podcasters or influencers have had a baby or started a new relationship.

“I know one of the security guys here has started his own podcast, so we can lead with that on the website if all goes to all. But it’s a worrying time. We might have to focus more

on reporting on conflict around the world until normal service resumes”.

SATURDAY

Carlo’s bumps...

Watching the Real Madrid players giving their manager, Carlo Ancelotti, the bumps (in front of millions of TV viewers) tonight, I thought: ‘Oh please, put the old man down, gently’. The celebrations at Wembley were off the scale, and understandably so. Real Madrid had just become champions of Europe for a record 15th time, while it was the now legendary Ancelotti’s fifth Champions League title win as a manager.

My heart was in my mouth as I watched the Real Madrid superstars springing the ‘old man’ high into the air – his fate at the mercy of young multimillionaires (who can be unreliable at times; I feared they might start checking their phones, mid-bumps).

As it was, the dashing Italian kept rising and falling quite balletically, the cameras capturing it all from above, Ancelotti even fist-pumping every now and again before descending back

into the embrace of the Real Madrid players.

Put the old man down, I was still murmuring, our dog (aged 9) nodding in agreement. Seeking confirmation of the validity of my concern, I went online to check the age of ‘the old man’. Having assumed that he was well into his 70s, I was really taken aback to read that Carlo Ancelotti is actually only 64. For me, it was just another example of the ‘tricks’ our minds play with us as we get older. Particularly relevant in this instance is our tendency to place people who aren’t actually that much older than ourselves, in a different category in our minds. An older category. It suits us to not to admit that we are knocking at the door of their ‘club’.

As I watched the unflappable (and hopefully undroppable) Ancelotti soar in safety, it dawned (rather abruptly) that the ‘old man’ I had been concerned about is actually only a few years older than I am.

In conclusion, our views on age get a bit distorted as we age; also, Carlo Ancelotti and I have in common the fact that we are not actually old men. However, he does have five more

Champions League titles than me.

SUNDAY

The morning after…

Where now Roscommon’s prospects in the All-Ireland SFC series, after yesterday’s defeat to Mayo?

Taken in isolation, it was a decent performance by Roscommon. They were competitive throughout (as they should be), finished within two points of Mayo, and certainly staged a grandstand finish.

However, it was a third defeat to Mayo in the same season – that’s hard to take – and an eighth loss in ten competitive games this year (leaving out the FBD competition). Roscommon have been lacklustre in 2024. At least deflated supporters can cling to the fact that the performances are getting better! Onwards and upwards, with Roscommon facing Cavan in a potential seasondefining game on June 15th

MONDAY

Elections loom

And so begins the last week of election campaigning, with the country going to the polls on Friday. The ballot paper can be a lonely location, certainly an exposed one. We wish all candidates the very best of luck on Friday.

TUESDAY

Barry & Clare

Smooth Barry Andrews couldn’t wait to deliver the line to an unsuspecting world… once tonight’s Prime Time European Election debate (Dublin constituency) switched to the subject of Defence.

Looking directly at rival MEP Clare Daly, and for all the world trying to give the impression that he had thought up the line on the spot, Barry triumphantly intoned: “Your problem is you don’t listen to the people of Dublin. You should think more about Crumlin than the Kremlin…”

Clare’s response? Well, if looks could kill…

Big boost for county town as Hyde to host Mayo v Dublin

Dr Hyde Park in Roscommon has been selected as the neutral venue to host the crucial All-Ireland Senior Football Championship Group Two game between Dublin and Mayo on Sunday, June 16th

The highly-anticipated game, which is set for a 3.45 pm throw-in, will be a great economic boost to businesses in Roscommon town over the weekend with some estimates that between 15,000-20,000 fans are likely to attend.

The newly-renovated stadium can now hold 23,900 fans since the new seating was installed in front of the main stand and it is hoped that the Dublin-Mayo game will draw one of the largest crowds to Dr Hyde Park in many years. The match will be shown live on RTE and will see the winner advance straight through to the All-Ireland quarterfinals, while the loser going into a preliminary All-Ireland quarter-final play-off.

The details for Roscommon’s crunch game against Cavan were also announced. That game will be played at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park in Longford on Saturday, June 15th at 5 pm.

The Rossies require a win or a draw to advance to a preliminary All-Ireland quarter-final the following weekend.

Leyden appointed Honorary Consul for the Republic of Azerbaijan

EMMETT CORCORAN



Former Minister of State Terry Leyden, a resident of Castlecoote, has been appointed as Honorary Consul for the Republic of Azerbaijan. The appointment took effect in May, but the announcement was only made this week.

The long-time public representative has been synonymous with Roscommon politics for the last half-century. After a long career at Council, Dáil and Seanad level, he retired

Athlone Agri Show has something for everyone!

The Athlone Agri Show will be held on Sunday, June 16th 2024. Over the years the show has developed into one of the top ten in the country, thanks to the generosity of its many sponsors, both local and national. The 2024 Athlone Agri Show will be at a most beautiful and tranquil setting, on the farm of Michael O’Donohoe, Garnafailagh, Athlone, Co Westmeath (Eircode: N37V252).

Don’t forget – it’s Father’s Day on Sunday, June 16th! This event would not be possible without our loyal sponsors. A sincere thank you for your generosity.

With classes for cattle, horses, ponies, donkeys, sheep, and poultry, a super dog show, cookery, arts and crafts, photography, food village, trade stands, children’s amusements and live musical entertainment all day, there’s no end to the excitement on offer.

There will be a display of al-

pacas, pygmy goats, and birds of prey, a Donkey Derby for Ladies and Gents, Best Dressed Lady and Best Dressed Gent events, line dancing and jiving to the very best of country music. There will also be bar facilities and a big TV screen for all the matches.

In the Equine section there are 107 classes across five rings, including Brood Mares and Foals, Young Horses, Inhand Connemara Ponies, Irish Draughts, Ridden Ponies, Ridden Connemara Ponies, Cobs, Family Pony classes, Working Hunter and ridden horses.

There’ll be 14 ISA All-Ireland qualifiers, 5 RDS qualifiers including Breeders Championship, Show Jumping and Eventing, Intermediate Side Saddle, Ladies Side Saddle and Racehorse to Riding Horse.

Athlone Agri Show is also presenting the Irish Draught Mare and Foal Breeders Championship, with 35 classes

incorporating 9 pedigree breeds, young handlers class and a selection of commercial classes plus a qualifier for the All-Ireland Young Stockperson.

There are over 60 classes in the sheep section catering for most breeds including three All-Ireland Finals for the Belgian Beltex, Irish Blue Texel Sheep Society and Dassenkop Sheep, plus the Western Regional Final Texel Championship and the Kepak Interbreed Championship. Poultry fans can enjoy 31 classes of small and large breeds and two AllIreland qualifiers. In terms of cookery, arts and crafts, and photography, there are over 30 classes for both junior and seniors. The Dog Show meanwhile is a huge attraction each year. The Food and Craft Village continues to grow each year. For more, see athloneshow.ie.

from the Upper House in 2020.

The appointment was made by Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs & Minister for Defence Micheál Martin TD.

Mr Leyden had been nominated by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, IIham Aliyev.

Mr Leyden said: “I was presented with my exequatur document by His Excellency Ambassador Elin Suleymanov, Ambassador to the United Kingdom and Ireland (nonresident) in the Embassy of Azerbaijan in

SIDE SHOWS

London on Friday, 31 of May 2024.

“The Tánaiste met me and wished me well, saying it was a very big task”.

Mr Leyden added: “I am ready and willing to serve”.

The former Roscommon politician said he was “proud and honoured” to have been asked to serve as Azerbaijan’s Honorary Consul in Ireland: “I am grateful to Micheál Martin for approving my appointment, and am honoured to be the only former minister to hold such a title”.

The Chairman & Committee Members extend a Cead Mile Failte to all members of the public residing around the Athlone area to visit the Show and taste and see Country life at it’s best With 107 Classes for Horses, Ponies & Donkeys, 41 Classes for Cattle, 60 Classes for Sheep, 39 Classes for Poultry & Eggs. Super Dog Show, Cookery, Arts & Crafts, Photography, Food Village, Trade Stands, Children’s Amusements & live musical entertainment all day. Bar facilities & Big Screen. What a fantastic family day out, for young and not so young CELEBRATE FATHERS DAY!

Mary and Terry Leyden are congratulated on Terry’s new appointment during an event in the Embassy of Azerbaijan in London.

His Excellency Ambassador Elin Suleymanov, Ambassador to the United Kingdom and Ireland (non-resident) presents Terry Leyden with the formal appointment document in the Embassy of Azerbaijan in London on Friday, 31 of May 2024.

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

11

Roscommon County Council intends to close the roads set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason speci ed.

Road to be closed: L7055 Ardsallagh Woods Road from Hannons Hotel to Golf Club

Period of Closure:

9.30am to 2.00pm on Saturday 29th June 2024

Alternative Routes: via N61, N63 & L1812

Road to be closed:

L7081 Turville from Galway Road Junction to Rahara Road Junction

Period of Closure: 11.15am to 12.45pm on Saturday 29th June 2024

Alternative Routes: via L1812, L7126 & N63

Reason for Closure:

To facilitate Roscommon Harriers Club Road Race

Objections in respect of the proposed closure may be made in writing to the Roads and Transportation Department or e-mailed to roads@roscommoncoco.ie to arrive not later than 5pm on Wednesday 12th June 2024.

Greg O’Donnell Acting Director of Services

COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN - ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT ACT 2000 (as amended) PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 2001 (as amended) – Part 8 NOTICE IN RELATION TO SPECIFIED DEVELOPMENT

Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provisions of Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and Article 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) that Roscommon County Council proposes carrying out the following works:

To carry out public realm improvement works as part of the Roscommon Town Centre - West Works which will include the following:

• Public realm and footpath improvement works on St Ciaran’s Street

• Public realm and footpath improvement works on St Ciaran’s park

• Alterations and improvements to bus set down and car parking adjacent to St Coman’s Wood Primary School and the Sacred Heart Church

• Alterations to the junction of St Ciaran’s Street and Convent Road

• Provision of new controlled and uncontrolled pedestrian crossings along St Ciaran’s Street

• And all other ancillary site works.

An Appropriate Assessment screening report and Environmental Impact Assessment screening report in respect of the development have been carried out and are available for inspection. The reports concluded that a full EIAR is not required, and that the development does not need to proceed to Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment. Where any person considers that a development proposed to be carried out would be likely to have signi cant e ects on the environment, he or she may, at any time before the expiration of 4 weeks beginning on the date of publication of the notice referred to in article 81(2), apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have such e ects.

https://www.roscommoncoco.ie//!OB4IJF

Plans and particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection at the o ces of Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town. Plans and particulars will be available for purchase (at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy) from Thursday June 6th until Thursday July 4th. 2024 inclusive, during o ce hours at the o ces of Community and Enterprise, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town – telephone 09066 37100. Plans and particulars of the proposed development will also be available for inspection online on the RCC website using the following link:

Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made in writing to the undersigned on orbefore 5pm on 18th July 2024

Signed: - Mark Keaveney, Director of Services, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town. Email: regeneration@roscommoncoco.ie

Date of Notice: 6th June 2024

Almost €1.2m in funding for roads

Fianna Fáil senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed €1,183,000 in additional funding for regional and local roads in Co Roscommon damaged by persistent rainfall over the winter and spring months.

Senator Murphy’s party colleague Minister of State Jack Chambers TD announced €30 million in emergency funds last Friday to deal specifically with the impact of climate change, which has contributed to a deterioration in the surface quality of certain parts of the roads network.

Senator Murphy said: “I’m delighted to receive confirmation from my party colleague Minister Jack Chambers that

€1,183,000 has been allocated for regional and local roads in Co Roscommon.

“We need to keep our roads safe. This emergency investment will give Roscommon County Council the funds necessary to repair potholes and other damage on our roads caused by the extremely heavy rainfall over the winter and spring months.

“In persistent wet conditions, water seepage contributes to damage such as the development of potholes or pavement collapse.

“These funds will significantly improve the worst impacted areas of the road network”.

Slimming World members donate ‘slimmed out of’ clothes to charity

Super slimmers in Co Roscommon have raised €11,075 for the Irish Cancer Society by donating the clothes they ‘slimmed out of’ to the charity’s shops.

The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw with the Irish Cancer Society is an annual event which takes place in Slimming World groups across Ireland and the UK and sees members donating clothes, shoes, and accessories that no longer fit. Slimming World Consultant, Pauline Bliss, who runs the group in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon and St Joseph’s Resource Centre in Boyle, says she’s proud of how her members came together to support the charity as well as celebrate how far they’ve come on their own weight-loss journeys.

She says: “Every week I’m inspired by my members and their dedication and determination to achieve their weightloss goals. They’re just as enthusiastic when it comes to getting involved in events such as The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw too. I was bowled over by how many bags they filled with clothes that they’ve slimmed out of to raise money for such an important charity. What I really love is that they’re so confident they will never need these clothes again because they’ve made changes they can keep up for life!”

Trish Keegan, who runs the Slimming World groups in Gleeson’s, Roscommon and in the O’Rourke GAA Centre in Castlerea, says: “Being overweight doesn’t necessarily mean that a person will develop cancer, but we know that losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent a number of health conditions, including some types of cancer.

“The work that the Irish Cancer Society does to help those affected by cancer is vital. I’m so proud of my members for their passion towards this fundraising event as I know that their contributions will help the charity continue its life-saving research”.

Breanne Farrell, who runs the group in the Sports and Community Centre in Strokestown says: “Last year, in 2023, Slimming World members and Consultants raised €181,500 for the Irish Cancer Society through The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw and are aiming to make this year even bigger and better.

“As well as raising funds for the Irish Cancer Society, the aim of the event is also to raise awareness of how maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of developing some types of cancer”.

Men’s health Week 2024 – Know your numbers

As part of national men’s health week which runs from June 10th to 16th, key organisations in County Roscommon have come together with HSE Community Healthcare West to offer a range of free health awareness events. The partners include Roscommon Leader Company, Ballaghadereen Family Resource Centre, Castlerea FRC and Trinity Arts Centre, Roscommon County Council and Boyle Family Resource Centre. For 2024, the men’s health week theme for Ireland is “know your numbers “. By being informed about their own health , men can make the necessary changes that can impact on their health so easily.

This is an opportunity for Roscommon men of all ages to benefit from free and confidential health checks and supports. Events are taking place in Ballaghadereen, Castlerea, Kilbride Community centre, Roscommon town and Boyle during the week. All events are all free and no booking is required.

For more information please check www.westbeweel.ie

Slimming World CASTLEREA

O’Rourke GAA Centre, Castlerea

Wednesdays, 7pm

Trish 087 8581325

Slimming World Castlerea and Roscommon

Slimming World ROSCOMMON

Gleeson’s Restaurant

Wednesdays, 7:30am & 9:30am

Trish 087 8581325

Slimming World Castlerea and Roscommon

Pictured with the donations is Breanne Farrell, who runs the Slimming World group in the Sports and Community Centre in Strokestown.

Pictured with the donations is Slimming World Consultant Pauline Bliss, who runs the group in Hannon’s Hotel and in St Joseph’s Resource Centre in Boyle.

Pictured with the donations is Trish Keegan, who runs the Slimming World groups in Gleeson’s, Roscommon and in the O’Rourke GAA Centre in Castlerea.

€1,183,000 in additional funding has been announced for regional and local roads in county Roscommon damaged by persistent rainfall over the winter and spring months.

VOICE AND A FRESH PERSPECTIVE.

SENATOR EUGENE MURPHY

PREFERENCE FOR CLLR. JOHN KEOGH

VOICE AND A FRESH PERSPECTIVE.

SENATOR EUGENE MURPHY

PREFERENCE FOR CLLR. JOHN KEOGH

Plan commits to 20 new beds for Roscommon Hospital

Roscommon University Hospital (RUH) and the Saolta University Health Care Group has welcomed the announcement of 20 new beds for the hospital.

In a press statement, the Saolta Group said: “This ambitious plan will develop adult acute inpatient beds over the course of the next seven years. The new beds will be provided between 2029 and 2031”.

“We welcome the commitment to enhancing infrastructure and capacity that we know we

badly need in our region,” said Ann Cosgrove, Interim CEO of the Saolta University Health Care Group.

“This investment will help address the Urgent and Emergency Care pressures and support a regional balance of capacity provision”.

Marie Doorly, RUH hospital manager, also welcomed the announcement: “These new beds will greatly benefit our local communities and we look forward to progressing these plans as quickly as possible,” she said.

WORKING WITH SENATOR EUGENE MURPHY CONTINUE YOUR PREFERENCE FOR CLLR. JOHN KEOGH

A WORKING WITH SENATOR EUGENE CONTINUE YOUR PREFERENCE FOR

Young science stars from Roscommon light up ESB Science Blast Limerick

Over 130 projects from 106 primary schools around the country, including two schools from Roscommon, were showcased at this year’s sixth annual ESB Science Blast in Limerick, the RDS Foundation’s flagship Science and Technology Programme.

A STEM-focused educational programme involving whole classes investigating the science behind simple questions, this year’s event took place for the first time at the Univer-

sity of Limerick, from May 21st to 23rd Pupils from Roscommon

showcased an experiment and discussed their investigation with a STEM ex-

pert (Judge/Moltóir). Over 67,500 children have participated in ESB Science

Blast to date, making it the largest primary school programme on the island of Ireland, and one of the largest programmes of its kind in Europe.

Strong themes emerging from schools at this year’s Limerick event centred on biodiversity, the impact of technology on physical and mental wellbeing, and questions focusing on sports and exercise.

The two participating schools from Roscommon were St Paul’s BNS in Castlerea and Curraghboy NS in Athlone. Their projects featured the following questions: ‘What is the average speed cars drive on Church Road (50km zone on road where the school is located) and what can be done to increase safety?’ and ‘What are the causes and solutions to Global Warming?’.

ESB Science Blast is a free and hands-on way to engage young learners with STEM, specifically designed for primary school and funded by the RDS Foundation through its Science and Technology Programme.

Continue your preferences for Councillors FITZMAURICE, Paschal & McDERMOTT, Marty

In Europen Election, please support, in order of your choice: COWEN Barry; CHAMBERS Lisa and BLANEY Niall

Pictured are pupils from St Paul’s BNS in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Their project investigated the science behind the question, ‘What is the average speed cars drive on Church Road?’. Pic: Eamon Ward

Pictured are pupils from St Paul’s BNS in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Their project investigated the science behind the question, ‘What is the average speed cars drive on Church Road?’. Pic: Eamon Ward

Pictured with their teacher are pupils from Curraghboy NS in Athlone, Co Roscommon. Their project investigated the science behind the question ‘What are the causes and solutions to Global Warming?’. Pic: Eamon Ward

Roscommon Races to host first jumps fixture of year on Monday

Roscommon Races will stage their first jumps fixture of the year next Monday and some great action on the track is expected. There will be full fields on the seven-race card.

One of the unique aspects of going racing to Roscommon is that race-goers get very close to the action.

The final fence is to the right of the grandstand, right beside the running rail. If you haven’t been racing before, it really is something else to get that close to the action as the horses jump the final fence.

All the major yards in the country will have runners in Roscommon on Monday and many will have one eye on the Galway Festival so it’s worth recording the action at home and watching it back a few times.

Roscommon Races wishes to thank their many sponsors on the night which include Tote Ireland, Shanagher Hearing and Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers. Best turned out prizes are sponsored by J & A Gately Building Stone.

There will be entertainment after racing at the track and later on, back in Roscommon town. Racing in the west is very much a social activity – a chance to meet old and new friends. For those visiting this part of the world who might be on holidays, all at Roscommon Races would love to welcome you along! For regular social updates follow Roscommon Races on Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram. #getintouch

Admission is as follows – adults: €15; OAPs/students: €10. 10% discount when purchased online at www.roscommonracecourse.

ie A list of remaining fixtures and all other information, which includes ticket information, can be found on roscommonracecourse.ie. Enquiries to contact@ roscommonracecourse.ie or phone 087 2203288. Come for the racing: stay for the craic.

Martin Shanagher, Shanagher Hearing, Harrison Centre, Roscommon

Local success at Bord Bia Bloom event

There was local success at the Bord Bia Bloom event held in Phoenix Park in Dublin over the June Bank Holiday weekend with three exhibitors from Roscommon receiving recognition for their displays. Rathcroghan Ogham Alphabet Garden, designed by Richard Farrell and team, sponsored by Farming Rathcroghan CLG/Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, received the silver medal in the ‘Show Garden – Small’ category. Little Green Growers from Strokestown received the silver medal in the ‘Plant Nursery’ category. Finally, the Magic of the Kingdom That Lies

Beneath and Above Through the Power of Brigid by Uí Máine Kingdom in Ballinasloe received a ‘Commended Award’ in the ‘Postcard Garden’ category.

A total of 19 medals were awarded to show gardens, including eight medals to garden designers exhibiting for the first time at Bord Bia Bloom. A show garden encouraging developers to incorporate biodiversity, planting of new woodlands and sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) into housing developments was awarded the best large garden.

Richard Farrell of Farming Rathcroghan whose Rathcroghan Ogham Alphabet Garden received the silver medal in the ‘Show Garden – Small’ category during the recent Bord Bia Bloom event held in Phoenix Park.

YOUR FIANNA FÁIL TEAM forRoscommon

Athlone LEA

Cllr. John

Roscommon LEA

Larry

Keogh

James Murray

Boyle LEA

Sean Moylan

Aidan

Sampey

Working

Brennan

Cllr. Paschal

Fitzmaurice

Cllr. Marty

McDermott

Niall Blaney

PROVEN TRACK RECORD

 Secured investment for regeneration of local villages

 Working to find a solution to flooding at Lough Funshinagh

 Working with Just Transition Fund & other funding streams

 Promoting job creation & a strong rural economy

 Working to deliver community supports and services

 Promoting the protection of our rural environment

Ploughing Awards night this Saturday in Castleplunkett

Roscommon Ploughing Association wishes to express heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the championship event on May 19th 2024 in Farragher, Ballinaheglish, and helped contribute to its success, with exhibitors and visitors alike thoroughly enjoying themselves.

It would not have been possible without the wonderful support of the local community, with provision of stewards and volunteers, who are sincerely thanked for all their hard work in the preparations, on the day of the event, and with the cleanup of the site, etc. These efforts are recognised and are greatly appreciated.

In a statement, the committee said: “Our sincere thanks to all individuals and businesses who supported us with product, services and financial aid to run the event. The feedback has been amazingly positive from everyone”.

The Roscommon Ploughing Association Awards and presentation night will take place on this Saturday night, June 8th, at 9

A scene from this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships. Pic: Kieran Croghan

County Roscommon

Potential of Tourism

Independent Living For The Disabled

To The Municipal District

Re-Opening of Castlerea Fire Services

Lisnamult Indoor Market

of Castlerea Fire Services Natural Environment

Natural Environment of Community Interdependence access to GP’s difficulties with Planning

GP’s difficulties with Planning

difficulties with Planning

The next Indoor Market in Lisnamult, Roscommon will be held on Sunday, 9th of June from 11 am to 3 pm in Lisnamult Community Centre (F42 NN72). All are very welcome.

of Community Interdependence access to GP’s

should not leave forebearers in permanent anonymity’

should not leave forebearers in permanent anonymity’

should not leave forebearers in permanent anonymity’

Men’s Health Morning

Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one severely over-crowded Work-Houses in served the parishes of Roscommon Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House built for 900 but at one stage there totally reliant on it. People died on and were buried in a mass unmarked Acre

Roscommon Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown,

Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House

Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one severely over-crowded Work-Houses in served the parishes of Roscommon Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House built for 900 but at one stage there totally reliant on it. People

Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one severely over-crowded Work-Houses in served the parishes of Roscommon Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House built for 900 but at one stage there totally reliant on it. People died on and were buried in a mass unmarked Acre which may now contain over pledge to achieving an appropriate Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

A Men’s Health Morning will take place on Friday, June 14th in Roscommon Library for Men’s Health Week.  Join us for Chair Yoga with Marese Cregg, followed by an Activator Poles demonstration and a Healthy & Wellbeing talk with Laura Tully. Roscommon County Library and Roscommon Sports Partnership will launch their new activator pole lending service on the day.

The Irish Heart Foundation Mobile Health Unit will be outside all day from 10.30 am. Drop in – no appointment necessary!

RosFM AGM

RosFM, Roscommon’s only community radio station, held its annual general meeting recently.

The AGM was chaired by Bernie Kearney, Chairperson of the board of RosFM. Station manager Seamus Duke reported on another successful year for the station, thanking the 30-plus volunteers for their e orts on behalf of RosFM. He also acknowledged the support of Pobal and Coimisiún na Meán who part-fund the station.

RosFM has been serving the community in Roscommon for twenty years, and to celebrate this milestone, there will be a celebration dance in the Abbey Hotel on Friday, July 12th, with Mick Flavin and guests. It promises to be a great night of dancing and fun. Tickets are just €10 and are available on eventbrite.ie.

A special day of celebration will be held at the station for past and present volunteers, sta , sponsors and others who have helped the station over the years. More details about that to follow.

RosFM are always looking for volunteers for a range of programmes. If you have a hour or two to spare every week and would like to try your hand at radio, why not call 090 6628161 during o ce hours or contact info@ rosfm.ie any time.

Local representation at school conference

Multi-faith schools from Galway and Roscommon were represented at a recent national conference for principals of Community National Schools (CNSs).

The conference, organised last month (May 23-24) by Education and Training Boards Ireland, heard how three primary schools that were formerly under the patronage of the Catholic Church will reopen this September as multidenominational CNSs.

The three schools – in Cork, Kerry and Limerick – will all now fall under the patronage of their local Education and Training Board (ETB).

Community National Schools are the primary school model offered by ETBs. They are State-run, co-educational and multi-denominational.

Pictured at the recent conference in Portlaoise were Post-Primary Inspector Sinéad Farragher (a former Deputy Principal at Merlin College, Galway), Galway and Roscommon Education and Training board chief executive, David Leahy, and Tracey Kilgannon (Principal of Lecarrow CNS in Co Roscommon).

Pilot Dave Bruton pictured starting up his 1941 Boeing Stearman biplane at the Tibohine Flying Club annual Fly-In last weekend. The Stearman was an American training aircraft during World War Two.

Keogh Cllr. John Working

Vote No.2 James Murray

Dear resident

I reside in the Monksland/Bealnamulla area. A native of Taughmaconnell, where I spent my formative years having been raised on a farm, I am a qualified solicitor and I work with Hayden & Co Solicitors in Athlone in the area of General Practice.

First elected to Roscommon County Council in June 2009, I currently serve as Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council and have served on the governing authority of University of Galway. From a young age, I have been passionate about politics and I am privileged to serve the people - being a voice for those who often times are unable to be a voice for themselves.

My Priorities

•Job Creation: Work closely with the Indigenous and Multinational employers to build an environment that facilitates the creation of wellpaying sustainable jobs. Open the Innovation Hub.

•Housing for All: Supply of sustainable affordable housing for our younger generation. Council built social housing units for those with disabilities and those in need of social housing supports.

•Community/Sports Facility Development: Develop the Community Hub for Monksland as a space for enhanced recreational amenities for the people. Help secure funding to further enhance community and sports facilities throughout South Roscommon.

•Farming: Support Farmers to develop and modernise their farming enterprises to enable sustainable farm incomes.

•Tourism: Ensure an effective tourism strategy that will showcase all the amazing touristic and recreational attractions that County Roscommon has to offer.

New date for Roscommon Field Names Seminar

If you are interested in nding out about place names and eld names, come along to Roscommon Field Names Project Seminar in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon on Friday, 5th of July from 10 am to 1.30 pm. Please note the revised date for this event. A light lunch will be provided.

This event is free but booking is required by phone on 090 6637136 or by email to heritage@ roscommoncoco.ie. This project is supported by The Heritage Council as an action of Co Roscommon Heritage Plan.

Roscommon Field Names Project aims to help communities and individuals’ record, log and understand eld names in their area. The eld names gathered will become an invaluable cultural heritage asset both for the region and for future generations. Check out https:// meitheal.logainm.ie/en/ and see if any have been recorded in your area.

Castlerea CFRC to hold free Men’s Health Fair

Castlerea CFRC are holding a free Men’s Health Fair to mark Men’s Health Week (running from the 10th to the 16th of June 2024), with the event set to be held from 10 am to 2 pm on Wednesday, June 12th, in Trinity Arts Centre.

The following will be in attendance on the day: Croi Health Screening (who will provide a nurse and health checks), Regari Recovery and Discovery College, Grow Mental Health, Castlerea Men’s Shed, Tully’s Pharmacy in Castlerea, the Dementia Adviser, Roscommon from the Alzheimer Society of Ireland Day Centre in Castlerea, West Be Well, the HSE Living Well Programme, ALONE, an occupational therapist from HSE Memory Technology Rooms, the Marie Keating Foundation Mobile Health Unit, the Roscommon Mental Health Service-Psychiatry of Later Life, Roscommon Sports Partnership/The Movement Mentor/Laura Tully, and Roscommon Social Prescribing. Refreshments will be served on the day, and everyone is welcome to attend.

Castlerea Musical Society AGM

The AGM of the Castlerea Musical Society will take place on Thursday, June 13th, at 8 pm in Tully’s Hotel. All new and existing members are warmly invited to attend.

Lough Ree RNLI called to assist 11 people

Lough Ree RNLI were called to assist 11 people in difficulty last week.

On Sunday, June 2nd Lough Ree RNLI was requested by the Irish Coast Guard to go to the assistance of a cruiser which was in difficulty and taking on water at Quaker Island, off the Longford shore.

In very good weather conditions the lifeboat launched under volunteer helm Kieran Sloyan and volunteer crew members Liam Sheringham, Stewart McMickan and Amy O’Connor.

On reaching the scene at the northern end of the lake the crew examined the stricken vessel, and despite pumping water off the boat, the problem persisted. In the interests of safety, it was decided to take the boat under tow to the safety of a boatyard in Lanesboro. While on this call-out, the RNLI Lifeboat crew were advised of another craft with four people on

board stranded north on Beam Island at the southern end of Lough Ree.

On arrival at the scene the volunteer crew found that a passing private boat had assisted and the lifeboat remained on standby while the grounded cruiser got to safer water.

On Friday, May 31st, Lough Ree RNLI was called to assist two people on board a boat which had run aground on Green Island. Under the helm of Kieran Sloyan, the volunteer crew of Ruth Costello, her brother Billy Henshaw Jnr and Patrick Walsh reached the scene to find both people on board safe and well. Following an inspection of the boat and an assessment of the scene the boat was safely recovered from the rocks and continued under its own power.

On Tuesday, May 28th Lough Ree RNLI assisted two people on board a cruiser which had

run aground at Fat Island.

On assessment of the scene volunteer helm Liam Sheringham along with fellow crew Patrick Walsh and Billy Henshaw Jnr decided to evacuate the boat, take the two casualties on board the lifeboat and transfer them to the lifeboat station at Coosan Point. The stricken boat was anchored and secured.

An interesting aspect of the weekend call-outs was that two new female crew, Ruth Costello and Amy O’Connor, both were on their first ‘shouts’ as crew members.

Lough Ree RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Kevin Ganly said: “It is brilliant to see new crew members, especially women, taking their place on the lifeboat and making such an important contribution to our community. We look forward to having many more join them in the next 12 months”.

RNLI volunteer crew Kieran Sloyan (driving) with Ruth Costello and Patrick Walsh, pictured last week.

Ihaveworkedaspartofateamto:

After 30YEARS ofvoluntarycommunitydevelopmentwork,Iamasking foryour No.1VOTE basedonmy TRACKRECORD ofhardwork.

Supporttownsandvillageswithnewfacilitiesforyouth SetuptheMidlandsFirstPietaHouseSuicidePreventionCentre StartupweeklyclubsandgroupsforolderpeopleinCounty Roscommon

Developnewcommunitysportsfacilitiesforallsoccer,GAA&others LaunchthefirstwheelchairboatserviceontheRiverShannon

“Ifyouwantan MEP

facingRuralIreland & Roscommon, then VOTE1-MULLOOLY on Friday, June7th” MichaelFitzmauriceTD

WORKINGWITH MICHAELFITZMAURICETD,FORYOU,ACROSSTHE

Thousands of patients locking to Northern Ireland for cross-border healthcare

INFORMATION SESSION COMING UP IN ROSCOMMON

A series of Drop-In Clinics have been organised in the coming weeks with one in Roscommon on Monday, 10th of June (10.30 am to 6.30 pm) in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.

Patients in Ireland are missing out on faster treatments for hip and knee replacements, cataracts, and many other surgical procedures by failing to use the NI Planned Health Scheme, formerly known as the Cross Border Directive, and they don’t even have to be on a waiting list.

Kingsbridge Healthcare Group (KHG), Northern Ireland’s leading independent healthcare company, has treated thousands of patients through this crossborder healthcare initiative, including several hundred from Co Roscommon over the past five years – but say that many people are unaware that they can still avail of this EU-supported service, claiming back much of their surgical costs through the HSE.

Deputy Medical Director and Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

with Kingsbridge, Mr Michael McMullan explains: “Since Brexit, many people are of the view that they can no longer use the NI Planned Healthcare Scheme and consequently, some have opted to have surgery outside Ireland. Others believe that they must be on a waiting list before they can apply, and this is simply not the case.

“This service is available to anyone who wishes to be treated in Northern Ireland, with all the convenience that brings, including the advantage of no need to fly. In fact, guidance from The National Institute for Care and Excellence (NICE) advises people who have had a hip or knee replacement to postpone long-haul flights until three months after surgery, and possibly undertake short-haul flights six weeks post-operation.

“Our absolute priority is patient care and safety,” says Mr McMullan, “so we believe that people need to make an informed decision about where they would prefer to be treated.

It’s vital that they know the full range of options available to them, have peace of mind about their procedure and after-care, and access to all the information about the help that is available to pay for it”.

As the only private hospital in Northern Ireland ranked in the top ten of the National Joint Registry’s list of over 200 private hospitals in the UK, KHG also has a dedicated Cross-Border Healthcare Team to ensure a

seamless process that is as easy and stress-free as possible.

Gareth Crudden, Cross Border Healthcare Team Leader explains: “Our staff of ‘One to One Advisors’ manage every aspect of the patient’s journey

from explaining which treatments are covered, associated costs, organising surgery dates, and taking care of all paperwork including reimbursement from the HSE.

“All that is required from patients is a referral from their GP and the funds to pay for the treatment before reclaiming the costs”.

Information session in Roscommon

Kingsbridge Healthcare Group has been hosting a series of drop-in information sessions across counties, with the next one taking place on Monday, 10th of June from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm at the Abbey Hotel, Co Roscommon and others here https://kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com/crossborder/ drop-in-clinic/. However, additional events can be scheduled for patients who may have missed out. Simply contact businessrelations@kingsbridgehealthcaregroup.com to make a request for your local area.

Pictured is Gareth Crudden, Business Relationship Manager at Kingsbridge Healthcare Group, who will be hosting the drop-in clinics. He is pictured with a previous patient from Kingsbridge.

Domnick CONNOLLY

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Patrick, Gerry, Edel, Aoife and Mary Maguire pictured ahead of the All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two match between Roscommon and Mayo last Saturday evening at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon supporters Conor and Lorraine Keane pictured ahead of the All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two match against Mayo last Saturday evening at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Andrew Flaherty and Joe Flynn pictured at Dr Hyde Park last Saturday at the All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two clash between Roscommon and Mayo. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Tighe and Joe Morris pictured at Dr Hyde Park last Saturday for the All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two clash between Roscommon and Mayo. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

From Berlin to Ireland: Castlerea’s Tricia Collins to return for home-town concert

WILL BE JOINED BY THE SIRENS AND YONDER BOYS

A night of fantastic music at Trinity Arts Centre will see Castlerea native Tricia Collins grace the stage to deliver her classic folk style, along with the enchanting harmonies of The Sirens and the footstomping tunes of Yonder Boys. It’s certain to be a night to remember, so grab your friends and get ready to dance the night away!

Castlerea native Tricia is travelling from her current base in Berlin to take to the stage in her home-town. With tender, evocative vocals, irresistible hooks, and lyrics that resonate deeply, Tricia, along with her acoustic guitar, masterfully weaves a musical tapestry that speaks to the hearts of her listeners.

Following the release of her first EP in January 2024, Tricia is embarking on a summer tour, with a series of concerts throughout Ireland, Germany, and

the UK – with Trinity Arts Centre in her home-town among the many lucky stops! Joining Tricia on stage are two Berlin-based bands – The Sirens and Yonder Boys.

The Sirens are a musical grouping consisting of four talented female singersongwriters – Mone, Lena Minder, Olivia Void and Lotta St Joan. Sometimes performing alone, sometimes together, they reliably enchant audiences time and again with songs about longing, passion, pain and love.

The Yonder Boys, meanwhile, are a band featuring three male musicians – American Jason Serious (vocals, guitar), Australian David Stewart Ingleton (vocals, banjo), and Chilean Tomas Peralta (vocals, mandolin, banjo, bass). The group stand brazenly on the edge of Americana, bluegrass,

newgrass, and folk; while performing on traditional bluegrass instruments, their songs and performances focus on experimentation and their love for beautiful three-part vocal harmonies. Their first album ‘Acid Folk’ (2020) has been featured on BBC Radio, RTÉ

Radio, Dublin City FM, Deutschlandfunk Kultur, and MTV Australia, and the band has toured extensively.

The performance begins at 8 pm on Saturday, June 8th, at Trinity Arts Centre in Castlerea (F45AW27). Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets cost just €20 and

are available for purchase on Eventbrite. For more, contact trinityartscastlerea@hotmail. com. To keep up to date, find Trinity Arts Centre on Facebook, and follow Tricia Collins, The Sirens, and the Yonder Boys on social media and streaming platforms.

Pictured is Castlerea native Tricia Collins (currently based in Berlin), who is returning to her home-town this June to perform at Trinity Arts Centre, along with Berlin-based bands The Sirens and Yonder Boys.

It’s

fine if you’re angry, but it’s

best

not to go to the ‘booth’ angry!

ISSUE-SPECIFIC

Per the latest Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks opinion poll, as it stands, one in four voters are planning to vote for independent candidates or smaller political parties this Friday. The support for this category jumped four points in the last month, now outranking Sinn Féin and Fine Gael by a point, and Fianna Fáil by six. Needless to say, it’s a finding unaligned with the notion of a slightly older Ireland, one associated with the practice of party loyalty, and the dominating popularity of established parties.

Indeed, what’s become more and more evident as we approach election day, is the shift that’s occurred towards more issuespecific voting, reflected in not just this increased support for independents and smaller political parties – who more often ‘hone in’ on specific or bubbling issues… anything from economics to environmentalism, rural dissatisfaction to anti-refugee sentiment – but in the sheer increase in the emergence of them itself. We’re at such a capacity of independents and small focused parties, we have a small focused party of independents in the newly-formed Independent Ireland. And there’s enough barely-variating variations (in both name and policy) on ‘National Parties’, ‘Ireland Firsts’, and ‘Irish Parties’ to make you feel you might be seeing double on the ballot sheet.

It could be assumed this increased support for independents and smaller parties is directly linked to voters’ increased prioritisation of a select number of the current hotbutton issues. You will know the key ones already; the housing crisis, cost of living, neutrality, immigration. And independents/ smaller parties have an edge here in the way mentioned earlier – that by and large, they tend to build campaigns by focusing on very specific issues – but also in the fact that they don’t appear to carry the same baggage as the bigger parties. They don’t have the same laundry list of failings from time in power (granted, not applicable to Sinn Féin), and feel more symbolic of a long-awaited change to the status quo. And the Irish public are undoubtedly in the mood for such a change; disillusionment with government is evident in criticism of how they have (mis)handled the aforementioned pressing issues, in the sentiments that were stirred up by the referenda earlier this year, in discourse about Taoiseach Harris’s appointment following Leo Varadkar’s resignation a few months ago… you name it.

And issue-specific voting can be a great political catalyst, something that can drive more responsive, adaptive, and tailored policy-making. But before we head into the polling booths this Friday, it is worth evaluating where our prioritisation of, and indeed opinions about, such issues have come from.

The most obvious is that, particularly in terms of housing and the cost of living,

these are often crisis-level concerns that the public has been facing directly, day to day, for quite some time. But more generally, the sway of outside influences plays a part worth acknowledging too.

Because when a population does have genuine grievances, it makes for the perfect breeding ground for populist bad players to come into the fore, professing legitimate concern over real issues to garner support, while weaponising them for their own agendas.

Time and again we’ve seen the housing crisis used to sow racism and trepidation around refugee accommodation. We saw it as well with the Dublin riots; concerns over safety and policing being tackled with destruction and (not-so) veiled racism.

In terms of outside influence, we also often talk about social media, and the effect it can have on the voter; capable of letting them access a wealth of information to make informed decisions, or of feeding them enough misinformation or misplaced outrage to unjustly sway their vote. But usually we talk about this in terms of direct effects… how it might be influencing the kids, how it represents extremisms, etc.

We should also think about the additional, more general way social media use influences the voter. Whether it’s a net good or a net bad, social media has grown to occupy an entirely mammoth space in daily life. As a result, it has the power to influence not just people’s opinions on the big issues, but in deciding which we prioritise in the first place.

There is the fact that social media platforms the most controversial topics the most, in order to boost engagement, and how this adds to more and more polarisation. But there is also the fact that the internet has much broader borders than any of our other, more traditional, methods of information-sharing and social communication. If you didn’t have social media at your fingertips to suss out the latest opinions on any given issue, to hear how the folks in America or the UK or anywhere else in world are thinking, you would likely spend a great deal more time seeing how such issues are actually manifesting here at home, seeking out the opinions of those around you, and ultimately – without the influence of other countries’ extremisms on certain issues or the misinforming by bad faith players – end up with different opinions and prioritisations, ones founded more in your own day-to-day experiences than the dubiously-intentioned influence of outside players online.

In many great ways, social media has opened the doors for us to become more globally-minded citizens; educated us on the goings-on elsewhere in the world and exposed us to a wider variety of opinions, to under-represented voices we may never had had the chance to hear otherwise. But in becoming such a massive tap on our attention, it also opens us up to becoming distracted from what’s actually most important to worry about as a modern, Irish electorate. The trend towards more issue-specific

voting is, if nothing else, indicative of an invested electorate, one which is emboldened to seek change. That is a good thing – but only if the national mood is one being fed by valid, well informed priorities, not one manipulated by external influences, other countries’ controversies, or sensationalism.

The rise of support for independents and smaller parties reflects a desire for change and a dissatisfaction with the status quo, but it also underscores the need for a more responsive and accountable political system, one that serves us better. In the same fashion, we would be better served to hold ourselves accountable too; to take the time to evaluate the priorities and blind spots we’ve developed and where they come from, to ensure we’ve listened to a wide array of opinions and arrived at our fairest reasonings before we vote for what we want.

People are angry, and it’s turning them away from the bigger parties, the established routes, but the alternatives some turn to may be just as adept at not coming through on meaningful action. The desire to ‘angry-vote’ is understandable, but fruitless at best and dangerous at worst if done uncritically; look at the UK and Brexit, the US and Trump.

So if being angry is spurring you on to be more invested in who your political representatives are, in enacting the change you want – be angry, sure. Let it motivate you. But don’t go into the booth on that anger alone; take the time to reflect on where your anger is, and should be, directed at and why – and then, vote accordingly.

Alannah Ita Healy

(A student’s perspective)

VOTING

Opposition continues to ‘€8m plan’ for Strokestown

MURPHY DEFENDS HIS POSITION

Last Sunday, June 2nd, approximately 200 residents of Strokestown and its hinterland gathered for a peaceful demonstration at Bawn Street, in the historically significant Roscommon town which is home to the National Famine Museum.

Since its foundation, Strokestown has always claimed to have the widest streets in Ireland and when first founded Strokestown undisputedly held the title of having the widest streets in Europe.

The 200 or so demonstrators who gathered on Sunday in the north Roscommon town heard from a number of speakers including candidates for the upcoming elections and sitting public representatives.

Contributions from residents focused largely on their dissatisfaction with the current ‘public realm enhancement plan’ and what they see as the lack of real consultation by Roscommon County Council.

According to those who spoke, the project which has recently been awarded almost €8 million in funding will severely restrict current parking capac-

ity by as much as 80-90%, something which local businesses in particular feel will be detrimental to their survival.

Raucous scenes erupted when Strokestown-based Fianna Fáil senator Eugene Murphy spoke to the

€1.6m for Housing Adaptation Grants in Roscommon

Local politicians have welcomed €1,605,636 in funding for Housing Adaptation Grants in Roscommon.

The Housing Adaptation Grant for Older People and Disabled People assist with the necessary adaptations, repairs or improvement works in order to make the accommodation more suitable to the needs of older and disabled people, supporting them to live in their homes.

80% of the grant comes from Exchequer funding through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The remaining 20% in funding comes from the relevant local authority which administers the scheme.

Fianna Fáil’s Senator Eugene Murphy said: “I am delighted that my party colleague and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien, has allocated increased funding this year to ensure delivery of these muchneeded grants which will allow Roscommon County Coun-

cil to continue to support older and disabled people to live independently and in their own homes.

“These grants also provide a boost to our local economy, creating employment opportunities for local contractors”.

Senator Aisling Dolan of Fine Gael also welcomed the funding, noting that it represents an 11% increase on last year’s funding which “takes into account demand in our region as well as higher costs”.

She said: “I am delighted to work with my colleague from the West, Minister of State in Housing Alan Dillon, on this.

“It is crucial that families know there is support for older parents to be able to live in comfort at home. The Housing Adaptation grant for older people includes roof repairs, replacing doors and windows and central heating.

“The staff at Roscommon County Council encourage people to make individual applications with funding of up

to €8,000 for each repairs project. There is funding of up to €6,000 for mobility aids such as grab rails, access ramps and stair lifts”.

Senator Eugene Murphy concluded by saying that grants of up to €30,000 are available to assist disabled people carry out necessary works to make a house more suitable for their needs. He too noted that grants of up to €8,000 are available to assist older people to have necessary repairs or improvements carried out on their homes, as well as grants of up to €6,000 being available for mobility aids.

Fine Gael local election candidate Gareth Scahill also welcomed news of the grants, stating: “The Housing Adaptation Grant is so important as it assists with the necessary adaptations, repairs or improvement works in order to make accommodation more suitable to the needs of older and disabled people, supporting them to live in their homes”.

crowd, with one local heckling him. Senator Murphy reached out to the Roscommon People to “set the record

straight” on his opinions of the plan.

“I do accept there are a lot of people with concerns. I myself have constantly said from day one that there is something special about those wide streets and the residents feel the same”.

Continuing his comments to the Roscommon People this week, Senator Murphy said he has been warning people about the plan for over a decade: “However, about 14 years ago a plan called the Shaffrey Report was presented to the public in Strokestown. I immediately said this is not on.

“I informed residents and businesses that this plan would destroy the look of the town. I stated at the time that the plan was trying to reinvent a Victorianstyle town. Sadly nobody took any heed and to be honest I felt I was banging my head off a wall.

“I want to be clear. Roscommon County Council did not present that plan and the people who presented the Plan were very sincere but it was not a right plan.

“I don’t believe we should lose the money but if some commitments were given on the parking spaces I would be happy.

“The new plan could cause difficulties for the running of the Agricultural Show and the Easter Parade”.

New Frenchpark traffic lights now operational

Roscommon County Council are pleased to announce that the first signal controlled junction in County Roscommon is now operational.

Frenchpark village was identified by Transport Infrastructure Ireland as being a high collision location due to the high frequency of traffic accidents at this busy intersection between the R361 and the N5.

Although Frenchpark is to be bypassed by the new N5 once constructed in approximately three years’ time, TII and Roscommon County Council felt that interim safety measures were required to reduce the collision rate.

In August 2022 Roscommon

County Council appointed Tobin Consulting Engineers to design a safety scheme for the village and in August 2023 the elected members of Boyle Municipal District approved a Part 8 Planning application for the safety Scheme designed by Tobin Engineers. The scheme as designed involved signalising the main junction on the N5 and junction improvements on the Boyle road to create a safer crossing point for pedestrians and reduce vehicle speeds on approach.

Funding for the project was confirmed by TII in January 2024 and Tower Construction were appointed as the main contractor. Works have been ongoing in the

village since April.

In a press statement, Roscommon County Council said: “We are delighted that the traffic lights are now operational and a much safer environment has been created for all road users.

“Roscommon County Council would like to thank the elected members of Boyle Municipal District for approving these works and the people of Frenchpark for their patience while works were ongoing.

“Roscommon County Council urges all road users to exercise care while travelling through the village in the next few weeks until people become familiar with the new arrangement”.

A number of protesters gathered outside the Roscommon County Council building in Roscommon town on Wednesday to express their unhappiness over aspects of the planned €8 million redevelopment of Strokestown. Pic: Kieran Croghan

The new traffic lights in Frenchpark are now fully operational.

Roscommon People keeping you up to date with Elections 2024…

You can now stay up to date with all the latest news, views and campaign updates from this year’s local and European election trail with our new dedicated ‘Elections 2024’ section of our website. Simply log on to www.roscommonpeople.ie and click the ‘Elections 2024’ icon on the top right-hand side of our homepage.

More support needed for women’s issues – Walsh

MEP Maria Walsh

‘Ming’ says he has secured big gains for farmers

Castlerea-based MEP Luke Flanagan has claimed the work he has done on Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has benefited farmers across Ireland: “I have demonstrated in my work on the reform of the CAP that my principle aim is to work for fairness and equality for all landowners and that I have defended the right of all farmers working all types of land sustainably”.

The CAP is the main funding stream coming into Ireland from the EU, representing in excess of 60% of the EU monies coming into the country.

MEP Flanagan said: “Tackling the blatant inequality in the distribution of CAP funds was a core aim of mine when I became an MEP.

“I secured the influential post of

Agri Coordinator for our group in the parliament and ensured in the CAP reform process that I became the ‘shadow’ for our group and therefore was one of only seven MEPs, the only one from Ireland, who was around the table throughout the entire CAP reform process”.

Claiming that his involvement in the Agriculture Committee of the European Parliament delivered a better deal for farmers, MEP Flanagan said: “The combined outcome of the gains I secured will mean an effective rate of convergence in excess of 92% by 2027.

“Because of this, farmers on the minimum payment will see their payments rise from €160/ ha to €240/ha by 2026. For the Connacht region this will result in an extra €130 million for the

local economy between now and 2026”.

MEP Flanagan says if returned to the European Parliament he will continue the work to ensure farmers of all types and farm sizes are protected in future CAP negotiations: “I will continue to fight for farmers in the west to have the right to farm their land as they have done for generations.

“Agriculture is the foundation of the rural economy and if allowed to decline it starts the downward spiral of depopulation leading to the loss of services such as schools and shops and the gradual hollowing out of rural areas”.

MEP Flanagan concluded his remarks by saying he voted against every international trade including Mercosur and CETA.

European election candidates must commit to investing more in women’s issues such as care responsibilities, business financing and female healthcare, that is according Maria Walsh, Fine Gael candidate in the Midlands-North-West constituency.

MEP Maria Walsh hosted an event, ‘Thriving Mná’, on Tuesday, 28th of May in Athlone to mark International Day of Action for Women’s Health.

MEP Walsh describes herself as a “strong advocate” for women in the European Parliament over the past five years. At the recent event she hosted, MEP Walsh said: “Women take on the majority of the care responsibilities, are underfinanced in business and there’s a dearth of research on female healthcare.

“Across Europe, the statistics are startling. 75% of informal carers are women. 40% of cancers affecting women could be potentially avoided if prevention and early detection were correctly implemented.

“And only 2% of venture capital invested in start-ups goes to women, while women make up close to 40% of all European entrepreneurs”.

Connolly welcomes works on footpath in Glenamaddy

Galway Fianna Fáil councillor Michael Connolly has confirmed that a new section of footpath has just been completed at Lakeview, Ballyhard Road, Glenamaddy. Cllr Connolly said that this section of new footpath was funded as a result of a Notice of Motion submitted by him to Galway County Council.

Cllr Connolly wishes to thank the local area engineer and contractor Ivan Mullins for their help in getting this work completed.

Casey: ‘I’ll give power back to the people’

Midlands-North-West European Independent election candidate

Peter Casey has promised to give the power back to the people if voted in as their MEP.

The former presidential candidate proposes to develop an app that will keep constituents regularly updated on all the vital new legislation and proposals. “When any topic comes down to a vote I will be making my deci-

sion on how you tell me to vote on the app. It brings power right back to the people”.

He added: “I will put forward the cases for and against – and will then respect your final verdict.

“I can appreciate that many elderly farmers might not be able to work the app system and to compensate for this I will regularly hold town hall

meetings with all of them to show a sign of hands, too”.

Presumably, Casey is hoping this move will ensure a return to a form of direct democracy which pre-dates the modern representative democratic model of governance we have today. Direct democracy originated in Ancient Athens, and evolved as social structures became more complex.

Keogh outlines range of key priorities

Fianna Fáil councillor John Keogh, the current Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, says he has a number of priorities to pursue if re-elected this weekend.

Cllr Keogh, who resides in the Monksland/Bealnamulla area, and is a native of Taughmaconnell, was first elected to Roscommon County Council in June 2009. Now seeking re-election, Cllr Keogh has highlighted a number of issues he is prioritising, including job creation, housing, community/sports facility development, farming, tourism, planning permission, childcare, road repair, and health.

Cllr Keogh explained he wants to work closely with indigenous and multinational employers to build an environment that

facilitates the creation of well-paying sustainable jobs, as well as opening the Innovation Hub in Monksland.

He also stressed the importance of housing for all, to include a supply of sustainable affordable housing for the younger generation, and Council-built social housing units for those with disabilities and those in need of social housing supports. Community/sports facility development is also a priority for Cllr Keogh, who highlighted the need to develop the Community Hub for Monksland as a space for enhanced recreational amenities for the people and help secure funding to further enhance community and sports facilities throughout South Roscommon.

Cllr Keogh also explained he wants to

support farmers to develop and modernise their farming enterprises to enable sustainable farm incomes, and also to fight to reduce unnecessary over-regulation. Ensuring an effective tourism strategy that will showcase all the amazing touristic and recreational attractions that County Roscommon has to offer, is another focus Cllr Keogh outlined.

He also highlighted planning, saying he wants to continue to fight to ensure that a common sense approach is taken in respect of decisions on planning permission, in order to ensure the progressive and sustainable development of our county.

Additionally, Cllr Keogh explained he aims to fight to stop the proposed

childminding regulations from being introduced, due to the unintended consequences that the overly financially and administratively burdensome regulations would have on an already challenging childcare service.

He is also prioritising roads reconstruction/pothole repair by seeking additional funding from Central Government to carry out the necessary reconstruction of local roads, which have seen significant deterioration in the last number of months due to inclement weather conditions.

On health, Cllr Keogh explained he aims to fight for additional staff resources in the area of child, adolescent and adult mental health services to ensure early intervention.

Fianna Fáil councillor John Keogh, the current Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council

Galway Fianna Fáil councillor Michael Connolly

Fitzmaurice to prioritise road safety in local towns and villages

Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice is calling on the Government and Roscommon County Council to work together to bring in a new scheme to reduce speed in every town and village.

Measures such as traffic calming and pedestrian crossing points are needed in all our towns and villages – especially near schools – the councillor said. In a press statement, Cllr Fitzmaurice said: “If re-

elected to Roscommon County Council, I will bring forward proposals to ensure we tackle this problem. At the moment, the safety of pedestrians is one of the top issues on the doorstep.

“We need to make sure we look after our communities and speed reduction, especially along regional roads, is needed. On visiting many villages over the past two months I have seen first-hand the dangers faced by all.

I will bring the relevant minister down to these villages to view some of the problem areas”.

Cllr Fitzmaurice added: “We need to act in a joined up approach in partnership with the affected local communities to bring about safer streets and roads for all road users and vulnerable pedestrians.

“Road safety will be one of my top priorities if I am re-elected to Roscommon County Council”. Cllr Paschal

N61 ‘one of most dangerous roads in county’ – Fallon

The N61 is “one of the most dangerous roads in County Roscommon” and urgent changes are needed to address road safety, according to local Independent councillor, Laurence Fallon.

“The N61 has been proven to be one of the most dangerous roads in County Roscommon,” stated Cllr Fallon. “A survey done by Transport Infrastructure Ireland suggested that it was no longer fit for purpose. The traffic is greater than what would be acceptable on any road and it also showed it was not possible to make provision for cycling or walking as the speed limit was too high.

“The survey showed 137 problems between Roscommon and Athlone. For example, the speed limit is at 100 at a busy school like Ballybay where there is a clear need to reduce the speed limit. There is also a need to have secure funding to upgrade the most dangerous spots on the road because without that, and with the growing amount of traffic, this road is going to continue

to be a death-trap and is going to continue to be unsafe for the public to use”.

Highlighting safety issues that have now arisen due to changes in road markings, Cllr Fallon said, “At the N61 in Kiltoom at the junction with the L7553, which is one of the busiest junctions on the N61, changes have been made to the white line system that had been in place which is causing untold danger. What was a continuous white line has now become a broken white line and that needs to be changed because cars are now emerging and meeting overtaking traffic coming head on. This needs to be changed rapidly before there is a serious accident at this location.

“Another very dangerous junction on the N61 is at the L7630. The road was resurfaced at this location last year and again a continuous white line has been changed to a broken white line, which is creating substantial danger, particularly for vehicles emerging from the side road”, he concluded.

See Her Elected provides key insights to gender breakdown

See Her Elected, a government-funded programme, has launched a live local election tracker, with up to date and accurate figures on the breakdown of female candidates in every local electoral area and by political party.

The latest statistics from the See Her Elected Local Election Tracker shows that the Social Democrats and the Green Party have the highest female candidacy level this year.

According to the group, 51% of the Social Democrats candidates are women while women make up 50% of the candidates running for the Green Party this year. Sinn Féin has the largest number of female candidates

(150) which accounts for 45% of their local election candidates. A large number of women (108) have decided to contest the local elections as Independents or non-party and they make up 21% of the total number of Independent candidates this June.

According to See Her Elected, 29% of Fine Gael local election candidates are women while female candidates only account for 24% of Fianna Fáil’s candidates going before the electorate.

A record number of women (31% of all candidates) will put their names on ballot papers on June 7th, a marked increase since 2009 when female candidates accounted for just 17.2%.

‘Lack of childcare services needs

to be addressed’

Sinn Féin local election candidate Leah Cull, running in the Boyle LEA, has said that one of the main issues raised with her on the doors is a lack of childcare services.

Ms Cull says she has spoken with a dedicated group of professionals in Boyle who have been advocating for this and are eager to provide high quality childcare service to local families. Despite their readiness, the team faces the lack of a suitable building.

Speaking this week Ms Cull said: “Our community deserves access to dependable, professional childcare services. We have a fantastic team ready to go, but we need a building to make this vision a reality.

“The group is actively seeking support and solutions to secure a facility that can accommodate the needs of the childcare service”.

Ward demands compensation for farming flood victims

Independent councillor Tony Ward

Independent councillor Tony Ward has called on Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue and Finance Minister Michael McGrath to provide “long overdue” financial support for farmers who have suffered loss of income due to persistent flooding over the past decade or so. Recalling major flooding in south Roscommon in 2015 (and since then), Cllr Ward said some farmers had lost a huge amount of land, ranging from 50 acres to 120.

“I want compensation for these people. These individuals and

their families are stressed, and finding it so difficult to remain in farming. All they have endured is cut after cut to their income, as a direct consequence of the flooding of their lands. They need to be compensated now.

“These people have been forgotten about over recent years and I am now calling once again on the Minister for Agriculture and his Department to provide financial assistance to them”.

Cllr Ward also insisted that immediate and meaningful steps must be taken to address the Lough Funshinagh crisis.

“The reality is that the farmers

and the wider community living in proximity to the flood-prone area cannot afford to wait another winter. The water is 1.5 metres higher than it was this time last year. The authorities simply have to act, as a matter of emergency. It’s not a case of can they do it, it’s what they must do”.

He added that it was important to acknowledge Roscommon County Council staff for all they have done over the past number of years on addressing the Lough Funshinagh crisis.

Also on the impact of flooding, Cllr Ward claimed that residents currently inconvenienced by

road closures in the Clonown area of South Roscommon were not informed in advance.

Due to ongoing works, road closures in the Clonown area are due to remain in effect until the end of July.

Cllr Ward says what is usually a five-minute car journey to Athlone can now take a half an hour or longer.

“Residents whom I have spoken to on my canvass say they weren’t informed by Westmeath County Council of the closure.

People are fair-minded… they understand works have to be done, but to be left out of the

frame – in terms of communication – is not acceptable. I’d call on Westmeath County Council not to take people for granted in this manner”.

He said it is critical now that the deadline for the works is adhered to.

In a press statement, the Independent councillor also welcomed resurfacing/drainage works which were carried out on a number of roads in the area recently. He said works were completed in Fearmore, Moyvannion, Purts and Carrowmurragh on foot of his lobbying.

Fitzmaurice

Sinn Féin local election candidate Leah Cull pictured canvassing in Boyle with Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus.

Independent councillor, Laurence Fallon

See Her Elected, the award-winning, government-funded programme, has provided a gateway for women in rural Ireland into local politics. Pictured is Dr Michelle Maher, Programme Manager (left), and Roscommon-based Mairead O’Shea, Communications Manager. Pic. Ger Rogers

Mullooly: ‘West of Ireland infrastructure needs more backing from Brussels’

Ciaran Mullooly, Independent Ireland’s candidate for member of the European Parliament (MEP) in the Midlands-NorthWest constituency, has committed to fighting tirelessly to secure essential EU funding to bolster infrastructure in the West of Ireland if elected on Friday. Mullooly stated that robust and equitable funding to bolster the West of Ireland’s infrastructure will be a key priority of his in Brussels, making the West the significant player in manufacturing, freight and passenger transport that everybody knows it can be.

lin Airport, while regional balance is ignored,” Mullooly said.

“It baffles me that so much focus, when it comes to Ireland’s tourism capacity, remains solely on lifting the passenger cap at Dub-

Mullooly is advocating for key infrastructure projects such as the Atlantic Rail Corridor and improvements to Ireland West Airport Knock to be prioritised as a matter of urgency:

“If we are serious about wanting the West to become a viable manufacturing hub and, gener-

ally, a viable place to invest and do business, we must match this ambition with action”.

The Independent Ireland MEP candidate also said that for all their talk, the Green Party seem to be more obsessed with “virtue signalling, greenwashing public debate and penalising rural dwellers more than they are in actually providing the infrastruc-

Reynolds to demand support for turf-cutters

National Party candidate in the upcoming European Elections, James Reynolds is firmly opposed to the European Commission’s “aggressive” stance towards Ireland’s traditional turf-cutting practices and bog restoration efforts.

“Turf cutters must be supported as they face an inflexible and overarching EU Commission, the aims of which amount to essentially a land grab”.

Reiterating his support for Rural Ireland, Reynolds says he hopes to join the ascending right-wing groups within the European Parliament, if elected.

Labour candidate Landy highlights disability rights

Fergal Landy, Labour’s Midlands-North-West candidate for Friday’s European elections, says that disability rights have been a very significant issue during his campaigning.

Mr Landy is also running in the local elections in Oranmore-Athenry.

“While canvassing, numerous people have raised the issue of disability rights with me” he said, adding that he has placed a focus on improving social rights at European level, for children, families, people with disabilities and the elderly.

“Many constituents have indicated to me that they feel the rights of some of our most vulnerable citizens and the concerns of their carers are being overlooked in both the European and local election campaigns.

“Disability rights have come up in a few ways. Firstly, in respect of the inadequacy of the assessment of need process compounded by further delays in the provision of the required interventions, therapies and in respite care. Educational supports are also a major concern with parents I have met. People are concerned about educational support and identifying specific shortfalls in suitable school places for children with ASD, especially at secondary level.

“In addition to children with disabilities, I have had parents of adults with intellectual disabilities speak with me about their concern for their son or daughter’s long-term care needs as they attempt to plan for what will happen when they are no longer there to support them.

“We need to adopt a much more rights-based approach, where the rights of vulnerable groups are prioritised over other political considerations. We need to fully implement the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Disability rights can be progressed at European level in a manner that impacts positively at national and local level. I would like to provide a voice for these concerns”.

ture required to reduce vehicle dependency in rural Ireland”.

Mullooly acknowledged the significant funding Ireland West Airport Knock has already received from the EU: “Knock Airport, as it was known when I was a young lad, received a £1.3 million grant from the EU to assist with its initial development and it has received numerous

EU co-funded investments over the intervening years.

“With more strategic investments, we can ensure Ireland West Airport Knock and the Atlantic Rail Corridor become the foundation of the West’s transport network, driving economic growth and providing critical connections for both people and goods”.

Fallon reiterates why he went poster-free

Having decided not to use posters during the election campaign, Athlone Electoral Area councillor Laurence Fallon has donated the amount saved to the local Sunflower Rooms at St Mary’s NS in Knockcroghery.

“I decided long ago that for this election campaign I would not use posters as a practical measure to address environmental concerns,” stated Cllr Fallon. “It has now transpired that I am the only candidate in the Athlone Electoral Area who is running a poster-free campaign.

“Instead, I gave the amount it would cost to produce and erect posters to the Sun-

MacManus slams FF/FG record on insurance

Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus has slammed the Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael record on insurance after the EU gave a formal warning that Ireland wasn’t protecting drivers by implementing the EU’s Motor Insurance Directive.

MacManus said: “This week marks another chapter in the story of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael governments’ terrible failure on insurance.

“Brussels has written to the Government chastising them for not implementing the Motor Insurance Directive, which is designed to protect drivers in the case of an insurer becoming insolvent.

“I am shocked at how incompetent this Government is when it comes to protecting Irish consumers in the field of insurance”.

flower Rooms in Knockcroghery, which I believe is a far more constructive use of the money”.

Cllr Fallon added: “Far too much plastic is being generated, which is having both a climate and environmental impact in our country. I believe election posters have become a blight on our towns and villages as candidates vie for available poles for posters.

“I believe this decision is in the longterm best interests of our environment for future generations while also supporting the valuable work of Tidy Towns organisations”.

Chambers criticises Greens’ opposition to ‘key green energy opportunity’

Senator Lisa Chambers, a Fianna Fáil European Election candidate for the Midlands-North-West, has issued a response to comments by Green Party Senator Pauline O’Reilly regarding Senator Chambers’ position on floating offshore wind energy development off the west coast of Ireland.

“Over a year ago, I met with Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan to discuss the potential of floating offshore wind off our west coast. It is remarkable to see a representative from Galway, in the west of Ireland, and a Green Party that does not want to advance our greatest green opportunity,” Senator Chambers stated.

Senator Chambers said: “I have never claimed to be an expert in wind energy – like members of the Green Party, I am a politician. However, I am thoroughly briefed on this matter, having worked on it for some time. I have consistently stated that we have at least 5-7 years of planning and preparation to do before we would be ready to commence construction. This includes necessary steps such as planning, environmental impact assessments, and mapping of the west coast”.

Senator Chambers pointed to the progress made by other countries in this area, adding: “The ESB, our own semistate, is investing in a floating offshore project in the UK, and France is investing €4 billion, using EU funding, to develop a similar project off their coast. We are already behind in terms of the timelines for these projects”.

She criticised the Green Party’s opposition, stating, “The Green Party continues to muddy the waters by suggesting the technology is not ready. What I have always advocated for is the mapping and planning, similar to what other countries have done. It is a very small ask to begin the mapping process so that we are ready to install a project within the next decade”.

Ciaran Mullooly

Cllr Laurence Fallon pictured with principal Mark Crave and pupils of the Sun ower Rooms, St Mary’s NS, Knockcroghery.

Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus

James Reynolds

Mullooly calls for urgent clarification around FF on Nitrates Derogation

Independent Ireland’s candidate in the Midlands-North-West constituency, Ciaran Mullooly, has called on Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin to urgently clarify his party’s position on the Nitrates Derogation, adding that Government candidates in the European elections have serious questions to answer to the farming community.

Fianna Fáil’s European candidate in the Dublin constituency, Barry Andrews MEP, told RTÉ’s

Prime Time debate this week that he does not support the continuation of the Nitrates Derogation and does not believe in “rolling back the nature elements of the Common Agricultural Policy”.

“I supported all of the Green Deal in the European Parliament and will continue to do so if elected,” Andrews added, but Independent Ireland’s candidate, Ciaran Mullooly, is asking: “At what cost to Irish farmers?”

“Fianna Fáil candidates in my

constituency may want to chat to Barry Andrews, as his rhetoric –that I believe is the actual Fianna Fáil policy – is at odds with what they have been telling farmers on the campaign trail. Andrews and other senior FF figures have been clear that they will not support an extension of the Nitrates Derogation,” Mullooly said.

The Independent Ireland candidate continued: “It’s the same story of the Government being two-faced in their dealing with

Midlands-North-West European Election candidate Senator Lisa Chambers has called on Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath TD, to consider the introduction of a specific PAYE tax credit worth €1,500 per annum for those employed in the childcare sector in the upcoming Budget.

Senator Chambers highlights the vital role childcare workers play in supporting families: “As per the latest CSO data, there are 139,899 children under the age of 15 being cared for in private childcare facilities, and

farmers when it comes to the Nature Restoration Law.

“Government candidates need to be honest with farmers and not claim to have their back when, in reality, if the EU doesn’t run them off their land our own Government has committed to doing so. If I am elected I will fight day and night for farmers in the Midlands-North-West constituency, their families and their livelihoods,” Mullooly concluded.

Senator Dolan in update on local health projects

Senator Aisling Dolan has welcomed the announcement that plans for the replacement of the CT scanner at Roscommon University Hospital are progressing to stage two of last Friday’s HSE Capital Plan i.e. appraisal stage. Senator Dolan stated: “Ensuring medical staff and patients have access to the latest equipment in the radiology department is so important and to see continued investment at Roscommon University is a priority for me.

“I am working with Marie Doorly, the RU Hospital manager, and the staff on the HSE spatial plan. Addressing the parking challenges at RU Hospital is also a priority, and I am dedicated to fighting for funding to support the hospital as an essential facility in Roscommon town and its hinterlands”.

Addressing other issues relating to local health facilities, Senator Dolan acknowledged HSE investment in the Plunkett Home Community Nursing Unit in Boyle, specifically in relation to a Deep Energy and Carbon Retrofit Pilot Pathfinder project.

On the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon, she said: “Investment at this facility is well overdue. This project, which is included in the HSE capital plan, is moving forward to the detailed design stage. Patients at the Sacred Heart Hospital will benefit from improved facilities, as the outdated 1960s single-storey accommodation units (known as Our Lady’s and St Joseph’s), are set to be demolished. In their place, a new two-storey 50-bed Community Nursing Unit will be constructed”.

57,200 individuals have identified themselves as working in the childcare sector.

“These workers perform essential caring roles on a weekly basis, forming the central support system that parents rely on for their young children”.

According to the Fianna Fáil candidate, a €1,500 annual tax credit for childcare workers would cost approximately €85 million per annum. Senator Chambers says she has formally requested a meeting with Minister McGrath to discuss this proposal.

‘We are forcing our young people out – it is now time to act’ – Brooks

Sam Brooks (a Sinn Féin candidate in South Roscommon) has said that the housing crisis and the “critical lack of services in South Roscommon” has reached a breaking point which is driving people out of the county.

He said: “We are facing a reality where many won’t be able to live in South Roscommon within the next decade. There are rapidly dwindling levels of public and private services, housing is far too expensive for the average worker, and it is next to impossible to get planning permission to build your own home.

“We need a serious plan to tackle these issues. We already see young people forced to emigrate to Australia to have any sort of life. Do we really want to continue forcing our young people out?

As the youngest candidate in the race, I see how this issue has a serious effect on my peers and on my community.

“We need to review planning regulations as a matter of priority. We need more services and more jobs in our community.

“Strict planning rules also mean that getting planning permission for building a rural home is next to impossible. This issue is quite literally tearing rural Ireland apart as we force people to move away from an area their family has lived in for generations.

“The relaxation of planning restrictions also needs to be coupled with an increased level of building from the council itself. Council housing used to make up the majority of rented ac-

commodation and it was occupied by teachers, nurses, factory workers, and many other people from all walks of life.

“We need to ramp up the level of housing being built by the council to allow workers and newly-qualified individuals to actually own and rent their own homes. It is time we fight back against a housing market dominated by vulture funds.

“In addition, we need to ensure new and old housing developments have adequate levels of services serving them. If I have the good fortune of being elected, I would advocate a common sense approach, ensuring that we have adequate levels of housing and services to serve our population”.

Senator Lisa Chambers

Enna Conry pictured with her granddaughter Aoife Naughton during Grandparents Day at Gaelscoil de hÍde in Roscommon town recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Eddie and Trish Noone pictured with their granddaughter Amirah Kanas during Grandparents Day at Gaelscoil de hÍde in Roscommon town recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Kathleen McNulty pictured with her grandson Rian Maguire during Grandparents Day at Gaelscoil de hÍde in Roscommon town recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Rachel Hastings crowned 2024 Roscommon Rose

One of the largest crowds ever at the annual Roscommon Rose of Tralee Selection event saw Rachel Hastings from Ballyforan crowned as the 2024 Roscommon Rose last Saturday night at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.

The 27-year-old lecturer, who was sponsored by new County Roscom-

mon business, The Best Free From, along with eleven other ladies underwent three interviews by Judges Paula Gannon, Brian Geraghty and Lorren Naughton throughout the day.

Speaking after the event, Roscommon Rose Chairperson Yvonne Donohue said: “We are delighted for Rachel who is an all-rounder and a

very strong Rose that will represent Roscommon in Tralee.

“She has a lot of life achievements under her belt and will be a fantastic ambassador for the county. She was up against eleven very strong ladies and we are very proud of the quality of this year’s entrants.

“We are delighted with the success

the County Library in

of our campaign and the calibre of the ladies who took part – they are a credit to their families.

“Rachel, whose background is as a lecturer at St Angela’s in Sligo, will now prepare for her International Rose of Tralee journey and we wish her the best of luck” concluded Yvonne.

Paddy Joe appointed Roscommon Age Friendly Ambassador

As part of the Age Friendly Programme, delivered on behalf of the Older Person’s Council’s network, the irrepressible barber Paddy Joe Burke has been appointed as the Roscommon Ambassador.

Every local authority in Ireland has their own Age Friendly Ambassador. Roscommon is privileged to have the ever-affable Paddy Joe Burke – a man with a big stature and a heart to match.

This role is carried out by a local high profile person in each county who represents the local Age Friendly Programme on behalf of the Older Peoples Councils. This is an honorary position that has the potential to have a big impact. Paddy’s role will include promoting the need to be Age Friendly and support the local Age Friendly Programme to raise awareness of Age Friendly initiatives.

As unquestionably Roscommon GAA’s most passionate fan, Paddy Joe is expected to bring an energy and profile to the role, celebrating and empowering the lives of our older persons. Recently, a national event was held in Slane Castle, County Meath to bring together the network of Age Friendly Ambassadors and simultaneously launch the Ageism Awareness Campaign

aligned to the WHO’s Global Report on Ageing. In becoming Roscommon’s very own Age Friendly Ambassador, Paddy Joe joins a very illustrious list, which includes Clannad’s Moya Brennan representing Donegal; TV personality Francis Brennan representing Kerry and stage and TV actress, perhaps best known for her in Glenroe and Fair City, Geraldine Plunkett. Those wishing to get

involved in Age Friendly Ireland can join their Older People’s Councils, running in every local authority area. Alternatively, one can reach out to the local Age Friendly programme manager in your local authority to learn more or visit agefriendlyireland.ie. At a recent Older Person’s Council (OPC) meeting in Roscommon’s County Library, the county’s Age Friendly Ambassador Paddy

Joe Burke and Roscommon OPC members presented Roscommon Libraries Age Friendly Charter to Lorraine Keane, Librarian. The meeting was held in the County Library in Roscommon. Prior to the handover Lorraine delivered an excellent presentation to the group outlining the changes Roscommon Libraries had made to become more Age Friendly.

The twelve entrants of this year’s Roscommon Rose competition pictured with host Fergal D’Arcy (centre) and Yvonne Donohue, Roscommon Rose Chairperson (seventh from left) at the Abbey Hotel last Saturday.

Newly-crowned Roscommon Rose Rachel Hastings pictured with Yvonne Donohue, Roscommon Rose Chairperson at the selection night last Saturday night at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.

Paddy Joe Burke’s preliminary introduction to the Older Person’s Council took place at their February 2024 meeting in Aras an Chontae.

At April’s Older Person’s Council (OPC) meeting Roscommon’s Age Friendly Ambassador Paddy Joe Burke and Roscommon OPC members presented Roscommon Libraries Age Friendly Charter to Lorraine Keane, Librarian. The meeting was held in

Roscommon.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

New Chamber Music Festival for Roscommon takes place this weekend

A wonderful and varied programme of music awaits audiences at the Roscommon Chamber Music Festival, funded by Roscommon County Council Arts Office and Arts Centre together with the Arts Council of Ireland.

Concerts take place from this Friday, June 7th to Sunday, June 9th inclusive in Roscommon Arts Centre and in King House, Boyle. There will be four performances in all with the festival beginning in King House in Boyle this Friday, June 7th at 8 pm.

Further recitals will take place on Saturday at 1 pm and 8 pm in Roscommon Arts Centre and again on Sunday, June 9th in King House. Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or by telephoning (090) 66 25 824. Tickets will also be on sale on the doors of both venues. To find out more about the music and the musicians visit www.roscommonartscentre.ie or www.roscommonchambermusicfestival.com.

This Friday, June 7th at 8 pm in King House, audiences can join the complete collection of festival artists for a rich and varied programme including Mendelssohn’s haunting F Minor String Quartet, Brahms’s sublime Clarinet Trio, sumptuous songs by Strauss and the startling Court Studies by Thomas Adès.

Saturday’s concerts take place in

The Treske Quartet.

Roscommon Arts Centre. At 1 pm pianist Peter Regan, soprano Lauren Scully, violinist Phoebe White, cellist Killian White and clarinettist Anna Webster collaborate for a refreshing programme of Dvořák’s folk-inspired ‘Dumky’ trio and ‘Gypsy Melodies’, Suk’s lush Elegie for Piano Trio and

New edition of Douglas Hyde book to be launched on Friday

This Friday, June 7th, will see the re-publication of ‘Beside The Fire’, which features insights on folktales edited and translated by Ireland’s first President, Douglas Hyde, during his lifetime.

The launch will take place at Hyde’s place of rest at the Douglas Hyde Centre in Portahard, Frenchpark, from 6 pm. This is a free event and refreshments will be served.

The book has been edited by Liam Mac Mathúna, Professor Emeritus of Irish at UCD and editor of ‘Éigse: A Journal of Irish Studies’ (NUI).

‘Beside the Fire’ is a collection of folktales which have been edited and translated by Dr Douglas Hyde. It reflects the extraordinary rapport which the young Hyde established with the Irish-speaking people of Connacht in the late 19th century, who shared their songs and stories with him.

First published in 1890, ‘Beside the Fire’ was a ground-breaking work. For the first time, a collection of translated folktales was appearing whose author knew Irish,

and who adopted the new scientific approach of providing details about the storytellers and where they lived.

WB Yeats was fulsome in his praise for ‘Beside the Fire’ when it first appeared. He wrote that Hyde “has caught and faithfully reproduced the peasant idiom and phrase…The result is many pages in which you can hear in imagination the very voice of the sennachie, and almost smell the smoke of his turf fire”.

Growing up in Frenchpark, County Roscommon, at a time when many of his elderly neighbours spoke Irish as their native tongue, he came to the language almost by accident, because of his passion for hunting birds and small game.

As his parents feared he might fall into a boghole and drown, they insisted the young Hyde be accompanied by Seamus Hart, Lord de Freyne’s game-keeper, who knew the local terrain intimately. Although reasonably competent in English, Hart preferred to speak Irish, and was, as it happened, a first-rate storyteller.

Milhaud’s scintillating Suite for Violin, Clarinet and Piano. Also on Saturday, beginning at 8 pm, the Treske Quartet, one of the UK’s finest emerging ensembles, perform Gabriella Smith’s rock-and-roll Carrot Revolution and Stravinsky’s spiky Three Pieces for String Quartet.

Lauren Scully will offer sublime beauty in Brahms’s Five Songs Op. 105. For the grand finale, Treske Quartet and pianist Peter Regan join forces for Dvořák’s Piano Quintet No. 2 – a favourite among musicians and audiences alike.

The weekend draws to a close on

Sunday, June 9th at 2 pm in King House, where Phoebe White, Peter Regan and Treske Quartet perform the final strains of this Bohemianthemed festival, including Janáček’s Violin Sonata, Smetana’s string quartet ‘From My Life’ and Dvořák’s Silent Woods.

Ballyhaunis Abbey fundraising night with James Kilbane

The Ballyhaunis Abbey Preservation Fund invites everyone to an Irish Folk and Country Night with renowned singer James Kilbane. The event will take place at The Friary in Ballyhaunis on Saturday evening, June 15th, starting at 8.30 pm.

The concert aims to raise funds for essential repairs and maintenance of the historic Friary building. Established by the Augustinians in the 15th century, this 600-year-old friary is a vital community resource, serv-

ing today as a venue for music performances, arts, and various community events.

The Preservation Fund was established two years ago with the goal of raising €200,000 for necessary structural work, rewiring, and a new heating system. While government grants are available, significant local fundraising is required to support the grant applications.

James Kilbane, a multi-platinum, awardwinning artist, will perform an array of be-

Irish ballads and country classics in his unique way.

The concert with James Kilbane is on Saturday, June 15th, starting at 8.30 pm at The Friary, Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo. Tickets are €15, available at The GEM shop, Murphy’s Garage, Eventbrite.com, from organising members or direct from 087 6434206. All are welcome, and every contribution is appreciated.

Roscommon man Peter Regan, a London-based concert pianist, is the Artistic Director of the Chamber Music Festival. He has arranged a very exciting programme with very talented Irish and UK musicians, along with soprano, Amy Ni Fhearraigh.

Soprano, Amy Ni Fhearraigh.

loved

Pictured are Fr Francis Beirne, Darragh Kelly, and Tomás Ó Moráin – the three speakers who addressed the recent Percy French seminar, organised by the Clooneyquinn Percy French Society in conjunction with Roscommon Library Services. The seminar explored the life and legacy of French, who was born in Clooneyquinn House, 170 years ago this year.

GOING OUT

Veronica Barrett, RHS Homecare Director of Services and Patrick Towey, RHS Homecare General Manager pictured at the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Breege McCormack, Mary Raftery, Christina Higgins, Pat Gilmore and Veronica Barrett, RHS Homecare Director of Services, pictured at the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Con Moynahan and Joe Burke pictured at the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Noreen O’Connor pictured with Breege and Tony Ward during the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Jenny Higgins, Kathleen Callanan and Sharon Flanagan pictured at the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Shirley Larkin, Sarah Callaghan, Rosie Moriarty and Bernie Nolan pictured at the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Peggy Timothy and Anne Quigley pictured at the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Siobhan Cunningham and Noreen Dunane from Galway pictured at the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Tracey Gingeoo, Karen Walsh and Ellen Beirne pictured at the recent RHS Homecare 28th anniversary celebration event held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

‘Government must address cost of doing business’ – IFA

IFA President Francie Gorman led the IFA delegation to the National Economic Dialogue (NED) in Dublin Castle recently. The NED heard from the Taoiseach Simon Harris, the Minister for Finance Michael McGrath, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohoe and the Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan.

“I made it clear that the Government needs to address the cost of doing business in Ireland for farmers and others.

A lot of these costs are arising from EU and Government regulations,” said Mr Gorman.

“The reality is that we now

have people raising concerns about increasing food prices. However, this is inevitable when costs and regulations on the farmers producing the food continue to rise while supports are being cut.

“Either the Government will need to pay farmers for sustainability costs or the consumer will have to pay more. Farmers cannot carry the cost,” he said.

“This was an opportunity to engage with the Taoiseach and key ministers and drive home the message that farmers have had enough of costly regulations and being asked to do more and more for less and less,” he concluded.

Agriculture can achieve emissions reduction target – IFA

IFA Environment chairperson John Murphy has said that if all additional measures set out in Climate Action Plan 2024 are implemented, agriculture can achieve its 25% emissions reduction target for 2030.

The EPA climate report published recently shows that with additional measures as set out in the Climate Action Plan 2024, emissions from agriculture will reduce by 18%.

“The reality is that some other additional measures set out in the Climate Action Plan for agriculture were excluded from the emissions projections report”, said said Mr Murphy. “This is because additional data is required to account for a potential 1.5 million tonnes’ carbon dioxide equivalent reduction due to planned

diversification measures”.

He said that hopefully this can be resolved by next year and we will see these diversification measures included within the projections report and get a clearer picture of the potential of the sector.

“Farmers are continually adopting new measures to reduce emissions on farms,” he said. “But if targets are to be achieved,

There was a smaller entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s Special Sale of Bullocks. Bullocks fetched an average of €3.09 per kilo up to €4.25. There was also a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.62 per kilo up to €2.87 per kilo.

There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active. We had a small number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Sheep. Prices for spring lambs made up to €241 while hoggets topped out at €205. The tops for stag ewes was €222.

we need whole of sector implementation.

“Farmers need to be actively supported during this transition, particularly around diversification measures, if they are to be adopted at farm level. The rollout of initiatives such as feed additives as well as ensuring sufficient supplies of protected urea will be vital to the sector meeting these targets,” he concluded.

the heifer weanlings hit €3.76 a kilo. The calf trade remains firm but numbers on offer are getting smaller. Bullocks, sample prices: AA 480kgs €1650, Sim 450kgs €1460, Lm 515kgs €1750, Shx 510kgs €1560, AA 640kgs €1840, Ch 605kgs €1760, Lm 670kgs €1950, and Lm 650kgs €1840.

Heifers, sample prices: BA 415kgs €1490, Lm 380kgs €1360, BA 380kgs €1350, PTX 345kgs €1240, Lmx 460kgs €1660, Her 800kgs €1880, Lm 555kgs €1830, Lm 550kgs €1660, and AA 550kgs €1590.

Dry cows, sample prices: Ch 940kgs €2400, Ch 835kgs €2290, Sim 825kgs €2270, Lm 740kgs €2160, Ch 705kgs €2130, Lmx 430kgs €1000, Fr 535kgs €1140, and Lm 600kgs €1400. Cows with calves at foot made from €1170 to €2940, springers made from €1060 to €1600, and dairy cows made from €1170 to €1430. For calves/runners, young calves made from €55 to €310 with continentals making up to €600 while runners made from €370 to €810.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Ch 250kgs €990, BBx 260kgs €980, AA 290kgs €940, Lm 275kgs €870, BA 650kgs €1980, Lm 415kgs €1440, AA 405kgs €1380, BA 310kgs €1070, and Lm 360kgs €1200.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Lm 295kgs €950, Ch 285kgs €850, Lm 305kgs €1100, BBx 315kgs €950, Lm 310kgs €900, Lm 350kgs €970, Lm 400kgs €1150, Lm 340kgs €1280, and Lm 330kgs €1190.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart each Thursday, with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www.livestock-live.com. Sample prices for dry cows: 1X CHX - 805KG - €2,220 -€2.76

Paul and Melissa Flanagan pictured with their children, Adam and Oisín at the recent Roscommon Ploughing Championships, held in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Roscommon and Athlone included on School Transport pilot scheme

Licence No. 001373 (Proudly serving farmers for over 64 years)

Friday 7th June @ 11 a.m.

Sale of Heifers 14 Pens on o er Also, Dry Cows, Bullocks and Weanlings Friday 14th June @ 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks

Also, Dry Cows, Heifers and Weanlings Bookings accepted until Monday 10th June @ 5 p.m.

Please Note: Tuesday Weanling Sales will recommence in August – Until then weanlings will be sold on Friday’s in conjunction with usual sales for Bullocks, Heifers and Dry Cows

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday @ 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates closes at 10 a.m.

Saturday 8th June @ 12 Noon

Organic Cattle Sale

Bookings now being accepted

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Local politicians have welcomed the news that the towns of Roscommon and Athlone have been included on the School Transport 2030 pilot scheme, jointly run by the Department of Education and the Department of Transport and supported by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and Bus Éireann. The planned pilot’s projects in the 2024/2025 school year will provide valuable insights on the impact increased demand will have on the scheme, the potential to integrate public transport services with school transport services, the facilitation of more sustainable modes of transport – and it will feature a number of recommendations to expand eligibility for families.

ADVERTORIAL

Fine Gael Seanad spokesperson on Education, Senator Aisling Dolan, stated, “I’m delighted to receive an update from Minister Norma Foley that Roscommon Town and Athlone Town are included in the School Transport pilot. This area is one of only two areas with Limerick for the pilot roll-out of recommendations from School Transport 2030 review.

“The review noted over 160,000 students are getting on the bus to go to school. The Government has given a target of bringing another 100,000 children on school transport by 2030.

“A number of recommendations from the report will also open up eligibility for more families. In the pi-

lot area the new recommendations of reducing the eligible distance to secondary schools to 2kms will be implemented (currently 4.8kms).

The recommendation for primary school is to reduce from 3.2kms to 1kms and the nearest school criteria will also be removed – these changes will take time to implement outside the pilot areas.

“For all families, the school transport fee reductions will stay in place for 2024/2025 – €50 for a child in primary school and €75 in secondary school with maximum family cost of €125”, she concluded.

Senator Eugene Murphy said: “I welcome news that for the 2024/2025 school year, a pilot project will be conducted in the

Roscommon town/Athlone town area to assess the impact of expanded eligibility and associated demand for primary/special needs services.

“The villages of Lecarrow and Knockcroghery will be used as the basis for the assessment, and the associated assessment of these villages as feeder areas to the Roscommon town and Athlone town post-primary centres.

“This location was chosen as it builds on an existing proposal from the community. To this end, it is proposed that the pilot will support wider community travel/mobility efforts in the Ballymurray, Knockcroghery, Lecarrow and Rahara areas” concluded Senator Murphy.

EirGrid Energy Citizens Roadshow hears how communities can

benefit from energy transition

Attendees at the recent EirGrid Energy Citizens Roadshow held in Roscommon Town heard how the transition of the electricity grid will not only help Ireland achieve its climate action ambitions, but will also support regional development.

The event allowed members of the public to hear about EirGrid’s work in operating and developing the electricity grid and the ambition to achieve 80% of Ireland’s electricity coming from renewable sources by 2030.

Those who attended the roadshow in the Abbey Hotel also got the opportunity to engage with exhibitors to learn more about home energy efficiency upgrades, retrofitting grants and community micro-generation schemes.

Climate Action Coordinator with Roscommon County Council, Aoife Moore, praised the level of community climate action in Roscommon and highlighted the value of local communities having an opportunity to work together and explore local responses to issues such as climate change.

Michael Quirke (Generator Connection Policy Manager in Regulation

and Commercial, ESB Networks) discussed the benefits of microgeneration and explained the importance of optimising existing infrastructure in ensuring a resilient energy network.

The event also heard from EirGrid’s Head of Project Management Office, Onshore and Offshore, Paul Moran, who outlined plans to prepare the electricity grid to carry 17 GW

(gigawatts) more renewable energy by 2030, triple levels seen in 2020.

Those who attended on the night heard details of how they can avail of grants to improve energy efficiency in their homes, with Mel Gavin (Sustainable Energy Community Mentor with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) explaining the supports available.

Speaking following the

event, Head of Public Engagement with EirGrid, Sinead Dooley, said, “Our vision for these events was to allow for local communities and businesses to speak with experts in the energy industry and learn more about EirGrid’s role in decarbonising the grid, and how this can positively impact the North-West.

“We would like to thank ESB Networks, Roscommon County Council, the

SEAI and the exhibitors for coming together and making this information accessible for people in the area”.

Following stage presentations, speakers took part in an engaging Q&A session with the audience, moderated by the MC for the evening, Brian Purcell. The issues discussed ranged from smart metering to the Sustainable Energy Communities programme.

Michael Quirke (ESB Networks), Sinead Dooley (EirGrid), Paul Moran (EirGrid), Aoife Moore (Roscommon County Council), Mel Gavin (SEAI), and Master of Ceremonies Brian Purcell pictured at the recent EirGrid Energy Citizens Roadshow at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.

€700,000 for outdoor projects in Roscommon

Senator Aisling Dolan has welcomed the recent announcement from Minister Heather Humphreys of funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme for projects in County Roscommon.

Senator Dolan (Fine Gael) said this was a “significant investment in outdoor amenities” in County Roscommon. She extended thanks to Minister Humphreys for funding of

€700,000 for two major outdoor projects under the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Deputy Frank Feighan also welcomed news of the funding boost.

Senator Dolan: “The Donamon Outdoor Recreation project has won funding of half a million under Measure 3 for large scale projects. Tracks and trails in Bracklin forest at Donamon will

be improved, all adding to the Suck Valley Way Trail.

“Congratulations to Boyle Town Team on the Lawn project to restore the walkway along the Boyle river. This investment of close to €200,000 will make a real impact for everyone in the town. It will add to the Latin quarter buzz in the area with lively cafes and restaurants and the recently renovated library space”.

Pandemic inquiry must not ignore mental health and long COVID – Naughten

Deputy Denis Naughten is calling for a thorough evaluation of Ireland’s Covid-19 response, with a strong emphasis on the mental health crisis and the impact of long COVID stating “as the country prepares for potential future pandemics, these issues must be addressed to ensure a more resilient health system”.

The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly increased pressure on mental health services, particularly affecting younger and older people. Recent studies show a worrying rise in antipsychotic drug prescriptions from 2020 to 2022, highlighting the severe mental health toll. The Regional Independents stress the importance of a detailed evaluation of the mental health impact, with specific recommendations to address the crisis exacerbated by the pandemic.

“Our mental health services were already under severe pressure before Covid-19. The pandemic has only made things worse,” said Roscommon-

Galway TD Denis Naughten, who made a submission to Government on behalf of the Regional Independents. “We need actionable recommendations to support those struggling with mental health issues, especially our younger and older populations”.

The submission also highlights the urgent need to address long COVID, a condition affecting over 5% of Irish adults. Many people living with long COVID experience reduced ability to perform daily activities, with symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and memory problems. This condition not only affects individual health but also has broader implications for the workforce and economy.

“Long COVID is a serious issue that can’t be ignored,” added Denis Naughten. “We need comprehensive research and dedicated resources to understand and manage this condition effectively”.

Kerrane accuses Government of letting Retained Firefighters down

TD Claire Kerrane has said that Government’s “failure” to live up to their promises has once again left Retained Firefighters on the brink of industrial action.

Deputy Kerrane said, “Once again we find ourselves in a situation where retained firefighters represented by SIPTU are on the brink of industrial action.

“That we find ourselves in this

The Roscommon/Galway TD was responding after the firefighters’ union representatives rejected what they described as unacceptably low offers by management.

situation lies squarely at the door of Minister Darragh O’Brien.

Darragh O’Brien made strong political commitments to these firefighters – he said he would champion them and committed to delivering a pay deal in the national pay talks – but yet again he has failed to deliver.

“Retained firefighters are at their wits’ end. We need these services to keep our communities safe, but our retained firefighters are understaffed, overworked, under-resourced and underpaid.

“It is therefore a complete dereliction of duty that the Government continues to lack the political will to grasp the opportunity to address the core issues at the heart of the recruitment and retention crisis in the Retained Fire Service”.

Deputy Kerrane said that Minister O’Brien needs to “urgently intervene in a meaningful way to bring a speedy and lasting resolution to this dispute that values our retained firefighters”.

BRADLEY HOMES is delighted to invite you to the official grand opening of our new offices in Creggs, Co. Galway!

Date: This Friday, 7th June

Time: 4:00 pm onwards

Location: Creggs, Co. Galway

We are honoured to have Michael Fitzmaurice TD to officially open our new premises.

Come join us to: • Explore our new office space • Meet Deirdre and our dedicated team • Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine

Your presence will make this occasion even more special. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Sinn Féin

to market at Remax Team Earley

auction later, this exceptional property of approx. 11,500 square ft.

Newpark House is an elegant country residence set within a picturesque parkland, offering unparalleled views of Lough Ree and the River Shannon. Originally a 25-bedroom hotel and wedding venue, this historic property has been extensively renovated by its current owners but requires finishing touches, providing an excellent opportunity for the prospective purchaser. Many original features have been preserved, and the building has been recently rewired with significant preparatory work completed.

The internal highlight of this property is the former Cellar Bar which is – as one might expect – located in the cellar and adorned with the highest level of brick work and craftsmanship you are likely to see. Said former bar opens onto one of the two courtyards set off either end of the property and would provide a fantastic wedding area.

Located near Kiltoom, Newpark House has a rich history dating back to 1717 when it was first recorded as the home of John Lyster. In the early 19th century, it was inhabited by John Hodson and later by Elliot Armstrong, both related to the Lyster family by marriage.

The last Lyster resident, Elizabeth, married Ralph Smythe of Barbavilla near Mullingar, and the estate passed to their son, Henry Matthew Smyth JP.

After a fire in 1860, Marcus Anthony Levinge restored the house and maintained ownership until 1939 when the Land Commission sold the land.

In 1940, the house was sold, and in 1970, Paddy Kenny purchased and converted it into a hotel, preserving it from potential demolition.

This detached, three-bay, three-storey country house features a front porch and rear addition. It boasts rendered chimney stacks and stands over a basement, exemplifying the charm and elegance of a historic residence. This property must be viewed to be appreciated. Viewings by appointment only. For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Cormac on 086 1409158 or Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie or log onto www.teamearley.ie

Newpark House, Kiltoom

Classifieds

ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS

 ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS:

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

CHIROPRACTOR

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Complete Chimney Services

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

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

Stephen Casey Construction

● General Building

● Extensions & Roo

Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm. Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie

• Chimney cowls and crow guards tted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone: 087 2798704

● Chimney

Inspections

● Chimney Repair

- Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

FENCING/GATES

REGAN FENCING LTD

For all your fencing needs.

● GLAS Fencing ● Grant Fencing ● Post Rail Tel: 087 2172281

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

Contact Alan on 087 6558597 www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Michael & Eilis Tormey, are applying to Roscommon County Council for retention permission and planning permission for the following:

1. Permission to retain as constructed dwelling which di ers to that granted under PD 03/1196,

2. Planning permission to construct extension on to existing dwelling house,

3. Planning permission to complete site boundaries and boundary treatments along with all ancillary site development works at Deerpark, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, F52 FK85.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

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

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

We, Adaire & Ken FoxMartin, intend to apply for permission for development at Tully Lodge, Tully Td., Kilmore, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of 1) Change of use from use as a private dwelling to use as a boutique lodge; 2) Restoration and extension of existing dwelling to facilitate a reception area, meeting room, lounge, kitchen, sta facilities and ancillary accommodation at Ground Floor level, 6 no. guest bedrooms at First Floor level and the proposed conversion of the attic to accommodate 1 no. guest bedroom; 3) Demolition of existing dilapidated single storey outhouse buildings to the North, existing single storey kitchen annex to the North East and existing conservatory to the South West of the existing dwelling; 4) Construction of proposed single storey replacement extension to the North of the existing building (largely within footprint of dilapidated outhouse building) containing sta facilities, toilets, 1 no. accessible guest suite and an event space; 5) Construction of single storey extension to the South West of the existing dwelling containing a bar and orangery; 6) Modi cations to the South West, North East and North West façades of the existing dwelling at First Floor level comprising of the closing up of non-original window opes; 7) Restoration, extension and change of use of existing gate lodge to be used as an apartment, ancillary to the main house; 8) Restoration of former tennis court and adjoining shelter including the erection of perimeter fencing; 9) Construction of proposed gazebo and Garden store; 10) Restoration of and modi cations to existing Northern and Southern vehicular entrances along the Eastern site boundary; 11) Site works including sta and guest carparking, the construction of services roadway and turning area to the rear of the existing building; 12) Landscaping including the construction of a proposed natural pond; 13) Proposed upgrade of existing wastewater treatment system; and 14) associated siteworks and services. The application relates to development which would comprise the carrying out of works to a Protected Structure.

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: Enda Mc Kiernan, Mc Kiernan Architects Ltd., Unit 3

The Old Presbytery, Main St., Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim.

I, Kevin O’ Connor, am applying for Retention planning permission for 1) The rebuild of an original dwelling to include minor alterations with a Porch extension to the front and an Extension to the rear; 2) Retention Permission for the widening of an existing entrance; 3) Planning Permission for the completion of the dwelling and upgrade of the existing wastewater treatment system with all associated site development works at Pollboy Townland, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Kevin O’ Connor

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Permission is being sought by Byron Distributors Limited to enclose and roof existing yard and storage space, at their premises at Roscommon Business Park, Ballypheasan Td, Golf Links Road, Roscommon.

The Planning Application may be inspected at the o ces of the Planning Authority at Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon during o ce hours 9.30am to 1.00pm, and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday.

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

Signed: Paul Feeney Consulting Engineers, Unit 1, Riveroaks Centre, Claregalway, Co. Galway.

Full Planning Permission is being sought from Roscommon County Council for proposed construction of a storey and a half extension to the side and single storey extension to the rear of an existing dwelling house along with internal renovations to same, entrance, boundary fence/wall, suitable onsite treatment system with polishing lter and all ancillary site works at Ballymartin Townland, Kilglass, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon for Adrian Corcoran and Karen McCrann.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the Planning Authority during it’s Public Opening Hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Cunningham Design & Planning Limited, Block C, N4 Axis Centre, Longford, Co. Longford

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Rian Biesty, am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to upgrade treatment system and percolation area, and carry out all ancillary site development works at Moher, 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

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

We, All-Star Shredding Ltd., intend to apply for permission for Retention and Permission for Change of use of an existing industrial unit for the following; (1) Permission for Retention is sought for the additional oor area within the workshop area of the building and the addition of o ce space to front of building; (2) Permission for change of use is sought for the entire building to provide two separate areas for the following uses (a) use as a storage facility for medical device tools (344m2), (b) for the collection, dismantling, processing and preparation for onward transportation of disused computer components for purpose of recycling (344m2); (3) Alterations to the existing elevations of the building associated with the addition of external re escape doors and provision of signage; (4) All ancillary and site works associated with the above.

At: Teevnacreeva Td., Tibohine, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The application relates to development which requires a Waste Licence for the collection and processing of electronic waste.

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 submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. .

Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd., Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090)6634421. Fax: (090)663423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

The most read newspaper in County

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Anne Mary Hannon, am applying For Planning Permission to 1. Construct 9 Nr New Detached Dwelling houses with a Domestic garage on Site Nr 9 and connection to the existing public services and 2. Upgrade of existing Agricultural Entrance to a proposed new Development Entrance, with footpaths, lighting and all associated site development works at Ardsallagh Beg Td, Roscommon, Co Roscommon.

Signed: AOL Design Ltd., Consulting Engineers, C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184. Mobile:(086) 8167365

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission..

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Vincent Collins, am applying for Planning Permission to upgrade the existing on-site Wastewater Treatment System with a proposed new Wastewater Treatment system and Tertiary Treatment system with in ltration/Treatment Area to replace the existing and all associated site development works at Killarney Td., Co. Roscommon.

Signed: AOL Design Ltd., Consulting Engineers, C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184. Mobile:(086) 8167365

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, the undersigned, on behalf of Mr Talwinder Singh, wish to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning permission to convert an existing restaurant to living accommodation providing 2 No 1 bedroomed apartments and 1 no 1 bedroomed Studio at rst oor level in the Stonecourt Complex at The Square, Roscommon in the townland of Ballypheason. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at the o ces of the planning authority and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks during o ce opening hours Monday to Friday beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Liam Loughrey BE C Eng

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

NINE WEEK NOVENA TO ST. MARTHA

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission..

St. Martha, I resort to thee and to thy petition and faith. I o er up to thee this light which I shall burn every Tuesday for nine Tuesdays. Comfort me in all my di culties through the great favour thou didst enjoy when Our Saviour lodged in thy house. I beseech thee to have de nite pity in regard to the favour I ask (mention favour). Intercede for my family that we may always be provided for in all our necessities. I ask thee St. Martha to overcome the dragon which thou didst cast at thy feet. One Our Father, three Hail Marys and a Glory Be Amen and a lighted candle every Tuesday for nine Tuesdays. This miraculous saint grants everything before the Tuesdays are ended, no matter how di cult. M.M.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Many thanks. Also thanks to St. Jude, St. Anthony and St. Therese of the Little Flower. K.D.

PODIATRIST

Tullys

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon

Physical Therapy Clinic

Movement Matters

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

Physical Therapy

CranioSacral Therapy

Medical Dry Needling

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

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

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

● HSE Trained and Approved

● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons)

Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

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

SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK • 20 years experience

CAN’T FIND ANYONE

Electrician Available

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

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 –

Dylan Byrne DIP CHFP (Monday - Wednesday)

Tel: 089 2551716 or Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP (Thursday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

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

If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 66 33084

GARDENING

www.westsidegardening.ie

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

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

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding

SPECS

* APPLICATIONS - PUBLIC/CIVIL and PRIVATE SECTOR COMPETENCY BASED APP FORMS

* INTERVIEW MASTERING (including competency-based questions)

* EDUCATION & PERSONAL COACHING

POSITION OF SECRETARY

in TISRARA PARISHMOUNT TALBOT and TISRARA SCHOOLS CO. ROSCOMMON, REQUIRE A

PART-TIME

SECRETARY

15 hours per week

(5 hours per 3 working days) E ective from 1st September 2024

APPLICATIONS WITH C.V,

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Eircode:

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre’s

NEW MANAGEMENT TEAM

applicants for the following positions:

Essential Criteria

• Minimum QQI/Fetac 5 in Early Years Education and Care

• Ability to always ensure the health and safety of children

• Experience planning child-centred activities

• Experience working as part of a team

• Good oral and written communication

• Ability to work on own initiative

• Garda Vetting required

Desirable Criteria

• QQI/Fetac 6 in ECCE or higher quali cation/equivalent

• Experience working with di erent ages of children from babies to toddlers, to preschool to after school

• Strong Knowledge in Aistear Curriculum & Síolta Standards

Provenexperienceinacustomerservicerole,withastrongfocus onhandlingcustomerqueriesandmanagingordersefficiently.

Excellentorganisationalandmultitaskingskillstomanagevarious responsibilities,includinglogisticscoordinationandadministrative tasks.

Proficiencyinusingordermanagementsystemsandcustomer portals.

Strongcommunicationskills,bothverbalandwritten.

Attentiontodetailandtheabilitytoworkinafast-paced environment.

• Certi cates relevant to Early Childhood Education and Care Sector. Shortlisting of candidates may apply. Subject to Garda Clearance. Job description available upon request. A panel may be formed from which future vacancies may be lled, including relief work. Canvassing will disqualify.

Interested applicants should send in letter of expression of interest and CV no later than Friday 14th June 2024 at 5pm to:

The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 Phone 090 662 9844 Email: cuanbhridechildcare@gmail.com Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

MONTH’S MIND

CLOGHER

Pat Ballyglass, Dysart

Pat’s wife, Peg, brothers and sisters would like to thank Fr. Francis Beirne for his help and kindness; Nellie Mochler, Gerry Dowd and Laura Finn for singing; the kindess the neighbours have shown to us and the sta at Maureen’s Foodstore who brought over food and Gullane’s Hotel for the lovely meal. We would also like to thank Norman Sinclair, Undertaker, for his kindness.

Month’s Mind Mass will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Saturday, 8th June at 7.30pm.

KELLY

Larry

Grange Lake, Curraghboy, Athlone and Great Barr, Birmingham (35th Anniversary)

Looking back with memories, Upon the path you trod We bless the days we had with you, And leave the rest to God. A silent thought, A quiet prayer, For a special person in God’s care. Always remembered by the Kelly family.

GILLOOLY Peter

Derrycunny, Derrane, Co. Roscommon Who died on the 1st June, 2020 (4th Anniversary)

Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day.

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

Fondly remembered by Brid, Mark, Enda, Monica, Lewina, Iarlaith, Naoise, Feidhlim, Éanna, Jack, Anne, Martin, relatives and friends.

Also remembering his parents Martin and Mary. Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 8th June in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane at 7pm.

NAUGHTON Mary Turpane, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon

Who passed away on the 11st June, 2023. (1st Anniversary)

It’s been the hardest thing to lose you, you meant so much to us, but you are in our hearts and that’s where you’ll always be.

We know that God called you, but we wish you could have stayed, at least the memories we have of you, will never fade away. We did not want to lose you but you did not go alone, because a part of us went with you when God called you home.

So just remember one thing, we are not apart, you’re with us in our memories and in our broken hearts.

Sadly missed but never forgotten by your family and friends.

WALSH/ MULRYAN

Annette Kilrooskey, Corbo, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary) Who passed away on 28th May 2020

BROKEN CHAIN

We little knew that morning that God was going to call your name. In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone, for part of us went with you the day God called you home. You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide, and though we cannot see you, you are always at our side. Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same, but as God calls us one by one the chain will link us again.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by the Mulryan and Walsh families. Masses o ered.

Connolly

Liam

CONNOLLY

Liam

Late of Castlestrange, Fuerty Who died on 11th June, 2014

Late of Castlestrange, Fuerty Who passed away on 11th June, 2014 (10th Anniversary)

God called your name so gently, that only you could hear, no one heard the footsteps of the Angel drawing near. Softly from the shadows, there came a gentle call, you closed your eyes and went to sleep, you quietly left us all.

MURRAY

Jimmy

Ganaveens, Rahara, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on June 3rd, 2023.

On the rst anniversary of Jimmy’s passing, his wife Elsie, son Thomas, daughter Lisa, son-in-law Ian, brother Michael, nephew’s Karl & Reuben, uncle Paddy and extended family wish to thank most sincerely all of those who sympathised and supported us on his sad and untimely passing.

Our heartfelt thanks to those who sent messages, owers, Mass Cards and a special word of thanks to all who attended our home and the Funeral Mass over these days, some travelling long distances to be with us. We will forever be indebted to our dear family, friends and neighbours who gave up their time calling to our home with food, refreshments and support in any way possible.

Our sincere thanks to the nursing, medical and care sta of the Mater and Beaumont Hospitals, who took such excellent care of Jimmy during his time there.

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Fr. Ray Milton P.P. (celebrant), Fr. Michael Donnelly (concelebrant) and Deacon Willie Gacquin for a beautiful requiem Mass. A special word of thanks to Fr. Francis Beirne, Fr. Dónal Morris and Fr. Christy McHugh for calling to express their sympathies to the family, to the choir for their beautiful music and singing and those who led us in the Prayers of the Faithful.

Thank you to Pat & Gillian Smyth of Smyth Funeral Directors for their professionalism, guidance and sensitivity with the funeral arrangements. A special word of thanks to all our wonderful neighbours who prepared Jimmy’s nal resting place so beautifully. Thanks to all the neighbours, friends and community groups who formed a Guard of Honour before Mass and afterwards to the cemetery.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, we hope you accept this acknowledgement as a token of our genuine appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for your intentions. Jimmy’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Rahara on June 9th at 10am.

Rev. Fr. Thomas HARLOW SMA

Blackrock, Cork/Kilteevan, Roscommon Who died on 15th May, 2024

www.brianmurraystone.com

DONNELLY

Gerry and Liam In loving memory of Gerry Donnelly who died on 5th June, 2004 and his brother Liam Donnelly who died on 1st September 2019

DOORLEY

Michael Who passed away on 9th June, 2023 (1st Anniversary)

Kildallogue Heights, Strokestown

On the rst anniversary of Michael’s passing, beloved husband of Una and wonderful father to Anne and Helen, we and all our extended family wish to express our sincere gratitude for all the kindness and support shown to us on the sad loss of Michael.

A heartfelt thanks to all our relations, neighbours and friends who attended Michael’s Reposal, Funeral Mass, and Burial. To those who travelled far and near your presence was greatly appreciated.

Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Sunday 9th June at 10am.

God called your name so gently, that only you could hear, no one heard the footsteps of the Angel drawing near, softly from the shadows, there came a gentle call, you closed your eyes

Sadly missed by your loving wife Mai and family. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in The Church of the Assumption, Fuerty on Friday, June 7th at 7pm.

The family of the late Rev. Fr. Thomas Harlow SMA would like to express our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to all those who supported and sympathised with us on our sad loss. A big thank you to those who travelled to Cork to be with us for the Funeral Mass and burial. Thanks to everyone who telephoned, sent Mass Cards and messages, posted online condolences and shared their kind words and special memories of Fr. Tommy.

A special word of thanks to the Doctors and Nurses and sta of the Bon Secours Hospital, Cork for their care and attention given to Tommy and his family in his nal days. Finally, a huge thank you to the SMA Fathers in Blackrock and Wilton for their attention and care to Fr. Tommy during his illness. To the SMA Fathers who concelebrated the lovely Mass. It was a huge comfort to us all.

To the catering sta in SMA House, Wilton for the lovely food they provided – it was very much appreciated. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Fr. Tommy’s

Thanks to those who sent Mass cards, owers, and beautiful condolences online; your words and memories of Michael were comforting to read. A special word of thanks to all the wonderful caring sta in University Hospital Roscommon, who took such excellent care of Michael. We will always remember the compassion shown to him and our entire family who were with us during this di cult time.

Thank you also to Dr. Brendan Crosbie and Marie McDonnell and their teams in Castle Street Surgery and McDonnell’s Pharmacy. To Fr. O ‘Connor and Canon Whitney, thank you for celebrating Michael’s Funeral Mass. Sincere thanks to Pat and Marian McHugh of McHugh’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism and kindness with the Funeral arrangements. To Ivy Rose for the lovely owers and the grave diggers Paul and Adrian Fahy who prepared Michael’s resting place so beautifully. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our grateful appreciation. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for the intentions of all. Michael’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 9th June at 11.30am in The Church of the Immaculate Conception, Strokestown.

Month’s Mind Mass wil be held 14th June 2024 in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan at 7pm.

O’REILLY

B atty

St. Helena, Tremane, Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Batty who passed away on 11th, June 2022

God saw you getting tired, And a cure was not to be; So He put his arms around you, And whispered, “Come to me”. With tearful eyes we watched you, And saw you pass away; Although we loved you dearly, We could not make you stay.

A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands to rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.

Sadly missed and never forgotten by his wife Maura;sons Brian and Patrick; daughter Mary; daughter in-law Edel; grandson Cian and extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in The Sacred Heart Church on Saturday June 15th at 10am

WALSH

Mona

Rathmore, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

Who passed away on 10th June, 2020

Wherever life may lead us, in everything we do, part of us will always long for yesterday and you.

Sadly missed by her sons Enda and Niall, daughtersin-law Winnie and Majella and families.

Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon on Sunday 9th June at 11am.

CORCORAN

John Paul and Alan Cargins Park, Donamon, Co. Roscommon (20th and 11th Anniversaries)

Although you are both asleep in Heaven, you are not far away. Our hearts are full of memories, you are with us everyday. But now there is an empty place and our hearts are torn apart. I know you are both at peace now in a place where you are free But we will meet at the Pearly Gates when Heaven calls for me.

Always remembered by your family.

Anniversary Mass this Sunday, 9th June at 9.30 am in Clooneycolgan Church.

FARRELL Mikie

Late of Castlemine, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon Who died on June 8th 2004 (20th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of a dear husband, father and grandfather.

Always much loved and remembered by his wife Patsy, sons, daughters, sons-inlaw, daughter-in-law and grandchildren.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a 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.

CONNAUGHTON Martin

Main Street, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who passed away suddenly but peacefully on his farm at Lissaneaville, Fuerty on the 20th May 2024

“A silent thought, a quiet prayer For a special person in God’s care”

We the family of the late Martin Connaughton would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone who supported and sympathised with us following Martin’s recent passing. Our heartfelt thanks to all who attended his farm on the day – the paramedics and ambulance sta , Kieran Croghan and Mary Murray from the Fuerty De brillator Group, Fr. Delaney and Fr. McLoughlin, Local Gardai Owen Crehan and Ronan O’Meara, Kieran Connell, Dr. Martin Daly, Henry Hamrock undertaker and neighbours of the farm.

A special thanks to all who attended Martin’s Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial.

To those who travelled long distances, viewed the mass via live stream, sent online condolences via RIP.ie, sent mass cards, text messages and all who remember Martin in their prayers, our sincere gratitude.

Thanks to the doctors and sta in the HSE –in particular Rosemary Thorpe, Cardiac Nurse, Dr. Martin Daly and his sta – for their kindness and attention given to Martin in times of need.

Thank you Fr. Eugene McLoughlin, Fr. Francis Beirne, Fr. Donal Morris, Fr. Pat Hogan and Fr. Gerry Lannigan for the beautiful ceremony. Thanks to Fr. Christopher and Teresa Murray for preparing the church.

Thanks to Sean and Margaret Kiernan for the lovely music. Martin was always a big fan of your music.

Thank you to Henry Hamrock and family, Funeral Directors and close family friends, for their professionalism and guidance during a di cult time. Thank you to the gravediggers who prepared Martin’s nal resting place with precision. Sincere thanks to Anne Harlow for arranging the beautiful owers.

Thanks to the local sports clubs, national school, political friends and his fellow card players for the guard of honour on both days.

To Athleague Community Centre for hosting the food and refreshments after the burial, many thanks.

A special thanks to our good neighbours and friends who called to our home, brought refreshments and supported us.

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

A mass will be o ered for all of your intentions.

As we remember Martin’s life well lived, we look forward to continue hearing the colourful stories from years gone by. The stories thus far were of great comfort since his passing. A man of the people, may he rest in peace beside his wife Josephine, parents Thomas and Delia, nephew and godson Kenneth and we pray for deceased members of the Connaughton, Fannon, Brannelly and Kilroe families.

Martin will be sadly missed by his family, daughter Aoife (Damien); sons Paul (Caroline), Neil (Marguerite), Mervyn (Caroline) and Ivan (Eimear); grandchildren Ben, Martin, Katie, Cian, Abbie, Emma, Ray and Oisín; brothers Tom, Noel and Clement; sisters Olive, Frances and Patricia; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, neighbours and his large circle of loyal friends.

Martin’s Months Mind Mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Friday, 14th June at 7.30pm.

LYNCH Frank

Killeglan, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon Who died on June 5th, 2023, in his 101st year (1st Anniversary)

The family of the late Frank Lynch wish to sincerely thank all who sympathised with them on his death. We greatly appreciate all who came to the Funeral home, Funeral Mass and Burial, to those who sent Mass cards and sent online condolences.

A special thank you to all Nursing sta , Medical sta and Care sta of Clonfert Ward in St Brendan’s CNU, Creagh Ballinasloe who showed such care, kindness and compassion in caring for Frank over the last 4 years in his home from home.

A special word of thanks to all his wonderful neighbours and friends who visited Frank in St Brendan’s CNU and in his home in Killeglan, especially PJ Glynn and Johnny and Kathleen Finneran. Thank you to all the home help sta , especially Catherine Daly, who visited, cared for and supported him at home so diligently.

We would like to thank Fr Bernie Costello who administered last rites. We would also like to extend our thanks to Fr Sean Neylon who concelebrated mass and laid Frank to his eternal rest. A sincere thank you to Michael Dempsy Funeral directors for his professionalism, guidance, and support in helping us carry out his nal wishes for his funeral. Thank you to Liam Gately and his colleagues for the beautiful music and singing at the Funeral Mass. Our sincere appreciation to the gravediggers who took such care and attention in preparing his nal resting place. To Gullane’s Hotel and Maureen’s Foodstore for the catering. It would be impossible to thank everyone individually however we hope this acknowledgment will be accepted as a token of our deepest gratitude and appreciation in celebrating Franks’ wonderful long life. The Holy Sacri ce of mass will be o ered for your intentions. Frank’s First Anniversary Mass. will be celebrated on Sunday 9th June at 11 a.m. in St Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell.

John and Mary

Thornfield, Ballygar, Co. Galway (24th and 10th Anniversaries)

memories of

and

who passed away on 10th January, 2000 and 7th June, 2014 respectively

Our thoughts are ever with you though you have passed away and those who loved you dearly are thinking of you today. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all the family.

COLLINS

Cherished

our loving parents, John

Mary Collins,

Roscommon Races return next Monday

Horses for Courses

Racing in Roscommon takes place again next Monday with their first National Hunt race of the season.

Racing opens with a Novice Chase that has ten entries followed with the national hunt pearl of Roscommon’s year, the Tote Connacht National Chase over three miles with 26 entries.

The first of the hurdle races is an Opportunity Maiden Hurdle with 32 entered, followed by the Shanagher Hearing Handicap Hurdle with the largest field on the card of 78 potential runners, both over two miles.

The fifth race is the Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers Novice Hurdle and there are 15 entries. The penultimate is the Midsummer Day With The Stars Handicap Hurdle (15 entries).

Racing closes with the 2-mile Pro/Am bumper and 14 possible runners. There is a high class entry in the National including

Short putts

by Tom Red

Tullybeg, Hurricane Georgie, Frontal Assault from the Gordon Elliott yard, Stuart Crawford’s Gold Cup Bailly, Ciaran Murphy’s Enjoy D’allen and Paul Gilligan’s Born By The Sea.

This weekend’s racing

Irish racing this week starts this evening (Thursday) on the flat at Leopardstown, off at 4.55 pm. There are two evening meetings tomorrow, Friday, flat racing at Fairyhouse at 4.35 pm and national hunt at Powerstown Park, Clonmel, away at 5.20 pm.

Racing on Saturday sees the first day of a national hunt 2-day meeting at Punchestown, off at 1.57 pm and day 2 on Sunday, again a national hunt meeting, sees tapes away for the first at 1.10 pm.

There is also a flat meeting at Navan on Saturday afternoon, stalls for the first open at 1.45 pm.

BALLAGHADERREEN

Ballaghaderreen Golf Club held their annual Summer Shield competition over the June Bank holiday weekend. The overall winner of the Shield for 2024 was Breege Flanagan with Anne Meagher a very close second.

Euro 2024 Tenner Winner fundraiser

The European Football Championship starts in Germany next week and the Town is getting in on the action. In our Tenner Winner fundraiser, we are asking you to choose the team that you think will win Euro 2024. Every entry costs a tenner and entries close on Friday, June 14th at 8 pm – the exact time Euro 2024 kicks off.

Further details can be viewed on our club website and social media channels. Select your team and support the Town!

Good luck!

We want to wish our players the very best in their State exams. Your study is your training. Your exam is your match. The hard work has been done. The time has come to perform. Show what you know!

Kennedy Cup

Best wishes to Senan Grogan and the RDYSL squad in the Kennedy Cup which takes place next week in Limerick. Enjoy the experience Senan.

On the Pitch

Our Town 1 boys U-16 team won at home to Ballinagare. An Eoin Naughten hat-trick, a screamer from Lucas da Silva and a shot from ‘down town’ from Darragh Killeen

On Monday, Roscommon stages the first of their national hunt cards at 5.18 pm and there is jump racing at Sligo on Tuesday evening.

On TV

ITV coverage this week starts on Saturday with four races from Haydock and three from Beverley including two Group races from Haydock.

Epsom Review

There was Irish success in all three Epsom Group 1 races with Luxembourg winning the Coronation Cup for Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore.

Dermot Weld, 75, turned back the clock as Ezeliya won the Oaks with Chris Hayes on board, a race he last won with Blue Wind back in 1981.

Aidan O’Brien ran three horses in the Derby on Saturday with City Of Troy looking to put the disappointing Newmarket run behind him, and Los Angeles and Euphoric also running.

The James Fanshaw-trained Ambiente Friendly went for home

Special thanks to the competition sponsor Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen.

Also thanks to Molloy’s Pharmacy who sponsored the Bank Holiday Monday scramble.

BOYLE

Best of luck to Michael Simon’s seniors team who take on Ballinamore Golf Club this Thursday in the second round of the Fred Perry Cup, named in honour of Boyle’s own Fred Perry and his contribution to the development of the game of golf in Connacht and nationally.

Congratulations to Niall O’Donohoe who won the Bart Moran Cup over the

secured the three points.

Town 2 lost out to an older and physical Ballymoe side. Daniel Hamrock, Rian Grogan and Dwayne Murray netted for Town.

On Monday evening, our Town 3 U-14 team drew 3-3 with Castlerea. Town 2 won in Moore, Harry Trimble and Samuel Godfrey with the goals.

over two furlongs out but was quickly cut down by City Of Troy under Moore who went on to win by 2¾ lengths. City Of Troy certainly is no wooden horse, giving O’Brien his 10th Derby win.

Racing news

A programme to be aired on RTE 1 on Wednesday, 12th of

weekend of 25th and 26th of May with a score of 64 net.

Next weekend the men compete in the Vpar format, which is still relatively new within the club. The big fixture on the horizon however is the President’s Prize on the 23rd of June. The men’s Thursday evening 12-hole event continues this week.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

The club are delighted to announce that the Landmark Hotel was the main sponsor of the club classic competition again this year. Full results will be published next week.

Congratulations to Damien Quigley who won the recent Neary Accountants

At U-12 level, Town 3 welcomed Ballinagare on Tuesday evening.

Town 2 were away to St Cuan’s while Town 1 were away to Shiven Rovers.

On Wednesday evening, our girls U-12s played at home to Moore.

On Friday evening, all of our boys U-11 teams are in action. Town 1 Europa League and Champions League

programme not to be missed by all interested in horse racing and racehorses.

Competition Corner

Winners of the tickets to Roscommon on Monday are Paul Finnegan, Ballygar, Andy Mannion, Roscommon and Shane Gordon, Castlerea, who all knew Rosallion won the 2000 Guineas.

Here’s your last chance to win tickets for Kilbeggan on the 17th of June. To be in with a chance, please tell us in what county is Kilbeggan Racecourse?

June, ‘RTE Investigates: Horses – Making A Killing’ at 9.35 pm will leave the industry with some questions to answer about what happens to racehorses after their racing career ends.

The programme will put the spotlight on the only active slaughterhouse for horses in the country, in Straffan, County Kildare, in the heartlands of racing. A

Open Stableford club competition with 40 pts.

With two rounds of the O.B.N. Series now played, the top three players are Marc McDermott with 43 pts, Damien Quigley with 40 pts and Paul Roche with 25 pts.

Our Junior cup team were narrowly beaten last weekend in the second round of the Connacht Junior Cup competition against Castlebar.

CASTLEREA

Congratulations to Alan Devine who won the recent Kelly Henry Medicalsponsored club competition with 61 net. Gerry Ryan came second with 66 net.

play Ballaghaderreen.

Town 2 Europa League and Champions League play St John’s. Town 3 Europa League and Champions League play Skyvalley. The training and matches continue for our boys and girls U-7 and U-9 teams this weekend.

Club Store

Shop now on roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie Adidas and KCS clothing ranges in stock – some are on sale!

Wise Words

Winners never quit and quitters never win – Vince Lombardi

Player Profile

Name: Ella Naughten Team: U-12

Position: Striker

Three words that describe me: Kind, dedicated, happy

Skill strength: Tackling

Skill weakness: Bicycle kick Favourite team: Manchester United

Answers as usual please on a postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to tomred17@ gmail.com by 5 pm on Wednesday, June 12th

Do not forget to include your name, address, and a contact phone number with all competition entries. Tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street, Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON

Congratulations to Jackie Maxwell on winning Tom Costello’s President’s Prize to Ladies.

Well done to our ladies senior foursomes team who won the delayed Connacht final over the weekend.

Our JB Carr team won 3/2 in the first leg away to Enniscrone with second-leg matches to come at home later in June.

After day one of Tom Costello’s President’s Prize Noel Sharkey leads with a great score of 62. A host of players are hoping to chase him down on day two on Saturday next!

Favourite player: Ronaldo

Favourite Irish player: Katie McCabe

Best stadium in the world: Santiago Bernabeu

Messi or Ronaldo or neither: Ronaldo

PlayStation or Xbox or neither: Xbox

Favourite film: Grown Ups

Favourite food: Pizza

Favourite song: Anti-Hero (Taylor Swift)

Favourite book: Famous Five

What makes me happy: Spending time with my friends

Person I admire the most: My sister, Ava

Why I play soccer: To have fun

Hopes for the season: To score a hat-trick!

Our Community.

Our Children. Our Club. Soccer xtures

Saturday, June 8th

RDFL Division Two Cup Final

St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh v Cam Dysart. 6 pm

RDFL Masters League

St John’s Athletic v CP Ajax. 7 pm Glen Celtic v Colemanstown Utd.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Pictured is the Roscommon town girls U-12 team.

(News from local golf clubs)

City Of Troy and Ryan Moore burst clear of the eld at Epsom.

Hurling finals in the spotlight this weekend

Championship Watch

< SEAMUS DUKE

Hurling will dominate the GAA landscape this weekend with two major provincial finals taking place. The clash of Clare and Limerick will need no hyping up.

Brian Lohan’s men are the biggest threat to the Treaty County ‘drive for five’ and they will go into the final believing that they

can win. But Limerick got the fright they needed against Cork and I can see them shading this by a point or two.

Most neutrals will be shouting for Dublin when they take on Kilkenny in Leinster. However, when it comes to the championship Kilkenny rarely disappoint and they should have enough to account for the Dubs.

The preliminary quarter-finals in the Tailteann Cup take place this weekend.

Antrim should be able to deal with the challenge of London. Meanwhile, the clash of Limerick and Tipperary will be close. Home advantage might swing it for Limerick. Laois shouldn’t have too much bother with New York in Portlaoise, while the match between Leitrim and Wicklow will be the game of the weekend in this competition. Andy Moran will come up against Oisin McConville on the sideline. Leitrim might just have enough to edge it.

Late Wexford goal inflicts defeat on Roscommon ladies

TG4 Ladies All-Ireland IFC

Wexford 2-11

Roscommon 1-11

An injury-time goal saw Wexford snatch victory in what was a very competitive opening round championship match played at Bellefield Park in Wexford last Sunday. The opening half was well contested and the scores were tied at 0-4 apiece after 24 minutes, with Aimee O’Connor and Laura Fleming on the mark for Ollie Lennon’s side.

A minute later, Aisling Hanly scored a fine goal for Roscommon, which put the away side ahead by a point at the break, 1-5 to 0-7.

Roscommon scored two early points on the resumption of play to lead by three after 40 minutes. After Tara Doyle scored a wellworked goal for Wexford in the 44th minute it was a very close-run affair to the end.

It was 1-10 apiece with just six minutes to go but Wexford scored a goal and a point in the last few

captain Niamh

and

minutes, the goal coming from Catriona Murray, giving them a fourpoint lead.

Aimee O’Connor scored a late consolation point from a free but it wasn’t enough for Roscommon who must now beat Antrim next

weekend to remain in the championship.

Roscommon: Helena Cummins; Aoife McGrath, Ellen Irwin, Shauna Fleming; Rachel Fitzmaurice, Aoife Gavin, Judy McDermott; Caoimhe Cregg, Lisa O’Rourke;

Laura Fleming (0-2), Kate Nolan, Ella Thompson; Aisling Hanly (13), Aimee O’Connor (0-6), Niamh Feeney. Subs: Aisling Shanagher for Gavin, Saoirse Wynne for Fleming, Lauren Shanagher for Cregg, Aisling McAuliffe for Feeney.

Buccaneers RFC History made at Buccaneers RFC AGM

History was made at Buccaneers Rugby Football Club’s Annual General Meeting when Lorna Stuart-Trainor was elected as the club’s president, thus becoming the first female holder of the office that her late father Owen held in the early 1990s.

A considerably larger than usual attendance ensured much robust debate at a lengthier than usual AGM and, for the first time in many years, virtually every position of the club’s Executive Committee was filled.

The following officers were elected to the Executive Committee of Buccaneers Rugby Football Club for the coming season (2024-25): President, Lorna Stuart-Trainor; Senior Vice-President, Eoin Reid; Junior VicePresident, Sean Flynn; Hon. Secretary, Diarmuid Morrissey; Asst. Secretary, Amy O’Connor; Hon. Treasurer, Michael Kiely; Asst. Treasurer, Ray Flanagan; Director of Rugby, Damien Shine; Media Officer, Michael Silke; Facilities Chairperson, Damien Phelan; Commercial & Marketing, Padraig Giles; Youths Secretary, Niall Daly; Minis Secretary, Declan Brady; Girls & Women’s Rep, David Nolan; Membership Registrar, Jacqui Pears; Connacht Senior Rep, Tom Meagher; IRFU Nominee, Liam Rattigan; Ex-Officio, Brendan Wilkins; Inclusivity/CWO, Rory Walsh.

Lorna is first ‘First Lady’: It was “with immense pride and gratitude” that Lorna Stuart-Trainor became first woman president of Buccaneers RFC.

Heroic Hazel inspires Roscommon

All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie Championship

Roscommon 1-17

Limerick 2-10

Roscommon produced a fantastic display of camogie to power to victory in the opening round of this year’s junior championship in Limerick last Saturday.

Roscommon conceded an early goal but turned things around with some excellent play to overhaul the home side. Hazel Kelly was in superb form, scoring 0-11 for Roscommon, and at half-time the visitors led by 0-11 to 1-3. In the second half things got even better for Roscommon when Alannah Sutton scored a fine goal to add to their lead. Limerick staged a strong

comeback towards the end of the third quarter, reducing the margin to just a point with 10 minutes to go, but Roscommon maintained their composure and points from Hazel Kelly and Kaitlin Egan saw them through in the end by four points.

Roscommon are at home to Mayo in round two of the championship next.

Roscommon: Michaela Fallon; Anna Hussey, Maria Carty, Oonagh Kelly; Grainne Lohan, Orla Connolly (0-1), Sinead Mannion; Sarah Dooley, Sally Bolger (0-1); Rachel Fitzmaurice, Anna Campbell (0-1), Kaitlin Egan (0-1); Hazel Kelly (0-11), Claire Curley,

nah

Geraghty (0-1) for Lohan, Ciara Killeen for Campbell.

She said during her first speech as president that the rugby club has given her so much over the years and she now wants to give something back. Her late father Owen served in many roles at Buccaneers RFC, including as President in 1991/92, while her mother Marla has been active on the club’s Ladies Committee and her brother Tom played for many seasons with the Pirates.

Big Pat’s Gym: Buccs are putting their own gym in place for Buccaneers RFC players and members honouring club legend Big Pat Hynes who passed away in April 2022. Pat Hynes was a truly iconic figure in Athlone and Buccaneers rugby for many decades. A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds towards the cost of the gym.

Buccs Summer Camp: Buccaneers Rugby Summer Camp will take place from 12th to 16th of August from 9.30 am to 12 noon daily. €70 for first child and €50 for additional children. Book early to ensure your place by contacting Geraldine at 086 1732711.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Alan-

Sutton (1-1). Subs: Niamh Fitzgerald for Curley, Grace

The Roscommon camogie team (and subs) pictured ahead of last Saturday’s victory over Limerick in the opening round of the All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie Championship.

Newly-appointed Buccaneers President Lorna Stuart-Trainor. Lorna has become the first female president in the club’s history.

Roscommon

Feeney

Wexford captain Roisín Murphy pictured with the referee ahead of their Ladies All-Ireland Intermediate Football Championship opening round match last Sunday.

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

A familiar feeling…

“You’d be sick of this” a Roscommon supporter said to me as we took that not unfamiliar long walk from the Hyde on Saturday – and I could only agree with him. Much earlier in the day, I happened to see the modest hero of 2001, Gerry Lohan. His two goals – the second arrowed past despairing Mayo bodies, with virtually the last kick of that Connacht final 23 years ago – prompted wild celebrations in the stands, and later in town. As if being punished for over-celebrating, we haven’t beaten Mayo at home (in the championship) since that day, the wait extended further after last Saturday’s relatively closely contested latest instalment.

Even as they lost a third successive championship game, missing an opportunity to claim what would have been a confidence-boosting win over one of the top teams in the country in recent years, there were some positives for Roscommon. The forward-line didn’t exactly reproduce the form of the first half against Dublin, but our sharpshooters had their moments; 1-15 was a decent tally. Most encouragingly, Roscommon competed for the entire 76 minutes or more; this was a welcome reversal of a trend whereby Davy Burke’s team have faded badly in games in 2024, and/or been overrun by opposition that has unloaded a formidable bench. While Roscommon did fall six behind late on, they were – to all intents and purposes – competitive for the entire game, as one might expect they should be. And Roscommon can legitimately argue that the key score of the game, Mayo’s 60th minute penalty, should never have been granted.

The opening half was entertaining, with some fine scores from both teams, although Mayo were notably off with some of their shooting from time to time. While there was just over 8,500 people in the Hyde on a beautiful, warm day, the atmosphere was reasonably lively as the Connacht rivals traded scores. It was 0-8 apiece at the half-time break, Niall Higgins and Brian Stack providing leadership for the Rossies. (The first half had featured quite the show of frustration by the Mayo management – led by an animated Kevin McStay – over a disputed sideline call. It got the crowd going, and maybe that was part of McStay’s strategy). Roscommon were slow to get going in the third quarter and Mayo, with the breeze at their backs, began to get on top, befitting their status as favourites. It was, I felt, one of Roscommon’s better displays in a thus far very disappointing season, but once again there were frustrating periods when the home team slowed the game too much, players not being offered sufficient options by colleagues. Mayo are too resilient, experienced and efficient not to (usually) punish hesitancy and passiveness. More accurate with their shooting in the second half, they edged ahead, looking likely winners as a keen contest evolved. With ten minutes to play, and Mayo just two ahead, the home team still had hope. Then Ryan O’Donoghue jigged into the danger zone, intent on scoring or creating a goal, before being deemed to be fouled. Whatever about that decision, replays show that the Mayo ace took far too many steps, and accordingly should have been penalised. The same player tucked the penalty away.

It felt like game over, but Roscommon ral-

lied impressively. They had strong claims for a penalty (possible foot block). Falling six behind when Donnacha McHugh palmed Mayo’s second goal in on 69 minutes, Burke’s team kept attacking, refusing to accept that all might be lost. I suppose a six-point deficit can have the effect of removing shackles, freeing players into a state of abandon. Conor Cox reduced the lead to three when a penalty was awarded to the home team. A late scramble followed, Ultan Harney pointing. Two points between the sides now, but the referee’s whistle dashed any lingering Roscommon dreams.

No question, Mayo had the edge. Indeed if their finishing had been more ruthless, there would have been no need for that very nervy finale, the Mayo bench below me decidedly on edge as Roscommon players bore down on goal in a bid to locate that unlikely escape route. Mayo were worthy winners. Eoghan McLaughlin had an absolute stormer for the green and red. Roscommon’s Chieftain, Enda Smith, had some good moments, but looked out on his feet once or twice and left the pitch injured towards the end.

As their manager noted afterwards, Mayo are

in a pretty good position. Roscommon? The jury will start to shuffle back in after group game number three, where a not to be underestimated Cavan await. The championship clock is ticking. Will Roscommon’s season collapse – or ignite –in just over a week’s time?

All to play for – despite poor run

Roscommon senior footballers keep going to the well this year, only to return as thirsty as before. Saturday’s defeat to Mayo was their third championship loss in a row. Given that Roscommon are still standing in the AllIreland series, it’s a statistic that points to a format that probably needs some tweaking (Roscommon are not alone in being in this somewhat unusual position).

This poor run – albeit that the championship opposition has been Mayo (twice) and Dublin – follows an underwhelming league

campaign, which saw Davy Burke’s team win just one of seven games (losing five).

It means Roscommon have lost eight of their ten competitive games this year (not counting the FBD League). It’s one win in ten, and the fear is that the team – even allowing for the fact that they were competitive in most outings – is just not going to find a sustained positive rhythm this season.

Obviously, much depends now on their final All-Ireland series Group 2 game, against Cavan. Lose, and the season has been a disaster. Get the right result and Roscommon will be one game away from the All-Ireland quarter-finals. So all is still to play for. There were many positive aspects to Roscommon’s displays against Dublin at Croke Park and versus Mayo last Saturday. For now, the mood is a touch downbeat, but a convincing win over Cavan – certainly a convincing performance, whatever the margin – could transform that mood and finally energise Roscommon’s season, just as the business end of the championship approaches.

Roscommon’s Daire Cregg and Mayo’s Sam Callinan in action during last Saturday’s All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two match in Dr Hyde Park.

Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

CAVAN CALLING

IT’S

WIN OR BUST FOR BURKE’S MEN AS MAYO WITHSTAND LATE ROSSIE RALLY

All-Ireland SFC Group 2

Mayo 2-14

Roscommon 1-15

< SEAMUS DUKE

There were just two points between the teams on this, the third occasion that they met this year, but it was a familiar story for Roscommon as their winless championship run against Mayo at Dr Hyde Park will now extend to at least a 24th year in 2025.

For neutrals, this was an incidentpacked, very competitive and enjoyable game, but in the cold light of day the analysis will conclude that Mayo deserved to win it. Roscommon’s late surge almost paid off, but overall Kevin McStay’s men were just about the better side. However, they almost rued missing a number of clear goal chances throughout the game and some of their shooting was poor on this occasion.

From Roscommon’s perspective, this was a reasonable performance. The full-forward line never got as much latitude as they did against Dublin the previous week. Mayo reacted by selecting Padraig O’Hora to mark Conor Cox and he did a good job as Cox didn’t score from play. Elsewhere, Roscommon played in fits and starts but were never in command at any stage.

Brian Stack, Eoin McCormack, Niall Higgins, Robbie Dolan, Enda Smith (first half) and Daire Cregg all played well for Davy Burke’s men on the day. The selection of Conor Hand to replace Dylan Ruane from the start was a surprise. The St Brigid’s youngster was withdrawn at half-time and was replaced by Keith Doyle.

This latest defeat means that Roscommon, despite having lost three championship games, will have a final chance of redemption against Cavan the weekend after next. That will be a winnertakes-all contest.

This game was played in brilliant sunshine, Roscommon having the aid of the breeze in the opening half. The sides were level no less than seven times in that period, with both teams kicking some fine scores.

Splendid efforts from Donie Smith, Ciaran Lennon, Robbie Dolan and Enda Smith saw the Roscommon fans on their feet, although it must be said that Mayo had more of the play and their eight first-half wides told its own story.

Mayo could have put clear water between the sides at the break when Darren McHale burst through in the 34th minute, but from point-blank range he fired into the side netting. It left the teams on level terms going into the break, 0-8 apiece.

Ryan O’Donoghue was always a threat for Mayo, and he came into the

game more on the resumption. By the 50th minute Mayo led by two (0-11 to 0-9) when Conor Carroll made a superb save to keep Matthew Ruane out. Two minutes later the Roscommon goalkeeper converted a ’45 to narrow the gap to one.

The final quarter was incident-packed. In the 60th minute O’Donoghue was

fouled on his way towards goal and referee Barry Cassidy pointed to the spot. It looked like the Mayo attacker had taken too many steps but the penalty was given and the Belmullet man fired home.

Roscommon were now under pressure and with just two minutes to go Mayo went six points up when a sweeping

move ended with Donnacha McHugh fisting the ball to the net. Mayo 2-13 Roscommon 0-13.

Roscommon came with a late surge. In the 70th minute sub Dylan Ruane was fouled, and Conor Cox put away the resultant penalty. Mayo swept downfield and another goal looked odds-on but Tommy

Conroy elected to fist over the bar. The game finished in a welter of excitement. Roscommon had claims for a second penalty when there appeared to be a foot block on Daire Cregg but the referee waved those appeals away. Then Mayo sub Fergal Boland received a straight red card after linesperson Maggie Farrelly reported him to the referee for an off-the-ball incident. Mayo manager Kevin McStay claimed after the game that it was a case of mistaken identity.

There was still time for Roscommon to score two points from Donie Smith and sub Ultan Harney but the clock eventually ran out and Mayo had hung on.

There were some crumbs of comfort for Roscommon following this latest defeat, most obviously the fact that it was an improved display. However, the sight of a clearly distressed Enda Smith limping off the pitch in injury-time with a nasty looking injury will not have improved the mood of Davy Burke and his selectors ahead of that crucial clash with Cavan.

So, after a lot of huffing and puffing, Roscommon’s championship season now comes down to 70 minutes against Cavan next weekend. It’s win or bust now.

Teams & scorers

Mayo: Colm Reape; David McBrien, Pádraig Ó’Hora, Sam Callinan; Stephen Coen, Jack Coyne, Donnacha McHugh (1-0); Jack Carney, Matthew Ruane (0-1); Eoghan McLaughlin (03), Ryan O’Donoghue (1-4, 1-0 pen, 2 frees), Jordan Flynn (0-2); Darren McHale (0-2), Aidan O’Shea, Cillian O’Connor (0-1). Subs: Conor Loftus for McBrien (h/t), Tommy Conroy (01) for O’Connor (53), Fergal Boland for O’Shea (62), Enda Hession for McHale (68), Bob Tuohy for McLaughlin (70). Roscommon: Conor Carroll (0-1, ‘45); David Murray, Brian Stack, Niall Higgins; Niall Daly, Robbie Dolan (0-1), Eoin McCormack; Enda Smith (0-1), Tadhg O’Rourke; Conor Hand, Donie Smith (0-2), Ciarán Lennon (0-1); Conor Cox (1-4, 1-0 pen, 3 frees, 1 m), Daire Cregg (0-1), Diarmuid Murtagh (0-2, 2 frees). Subs: Keith Doyle (0-1) for Hand (h/t), Dylan Ruane for Lennon (44), Ultan Harney (0-1) for O’Rourke (53), Ruaidhrí Fallon for Daly (53), Shane Cunnane for Dolan (63). Referee: Barry Cassidy (Derry).

Stat Attack

Wides: Mayo: 10 (8, first half); Roscommon 6 (3, first half) Red cards: Mayo 1 (Fergal Boland, 73); Roscommon 0 Black cards: 0 Yellow cards: 0 Man of the Match: Eoghan

Attendance: 8,597

McLaughlin (Mayo)

Roscommon captain Brian Stack looking deflated at full-time after their narrow defeat to Mayo in last Saturday’s All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two clash in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Frustrated Burke hits out at ‘baffling’ decisions

< SEAMUS DUKE

It was a clearly frustrated Roscommon manager Davy Burke that spoke to the media after Saturday’s loss to Mayo. He reckoned that a number of crucial refereeing calls went against his side on the day. Biggest bone of contention was the Mayo penalty, which Burke said should have been a free out.

“Look, eight steps are eight steps. Were we not looking at Sean Bugler a month ago – 14 steps in Croke Park – and was there not a big clampdown

on steps? Games being decided on eight steps by Ryan O’Donoghue? Was there not a penalty shout at the other end that he (referee) gave for a free out?

“Some of these decisions are baffling. We had a black card in Croke Park, I think it was the first time in history a black card was given for a man in front, Eoin McCormack was in front and he got a black card. Look, when you are the poor old Rossies you don’t get these calls, do you?”

The Roscommon manager says that his side could

have been awarded two further penalties. “The first one… Diarmuid Murtagh was through and he (the referee) gave a free out.

Daire Cregg takes a shot at goal and it’s a foot block.

The fourth official saw Ryan O’Donoghue’s was a penalty but never saw any Roscommon decisions. It’s very funny, isn’t it? Look lads, it is what it is”.

The Kildare native says that it will take 19 or 20 points to win a major championship game now. “I think 19 or 20 is the magic number now to win a championship

game these days. We have the ability. That is a good Mayo side, lads. Coming here, beating us three times this year isn’t a good record to have. We are very (much) hurting over that. You never know, we might get them again”.

And the match against Cavan? “That’s it. Ourselves and Cavan in two weeks’ time. We’ll probably be without our key man (Enda Smith). They’ll be without their key man (Paddy Lynch). No excuses now” he concluded.

McStay: ‘We’ve put ourselves in a good position now’

< SEAMUS DUKE

It was a very contented Mayo manager Kevin McStay who reflected after the game that it was a major achievement to defeat Roscommon three times in competitive games in the space of just a few months.

“We’re all fighting for a position even though, obviously, three of us are going to get through from a fourteam group. We’ve put ourselves in a

good position now with four (points) out of four.

“But playing a team like Roscommon three times in the space of a few months is such a difficult ask because they learn so much after every game. We knew it was going to be a tight one.

“We thought we had developed a bit of a gap with those two goals but the Roscommon penalty brought it back on top of us. We’re just happy to get the win. I’d have taken that

beforehand when we were looking at all the possibilities. We kept at it, 2-14 is a good score”.

The former Roscommon manager said that he also felt that a few of the refereeing decisions went against Mayo on the day.

“We were frustrated that a couple of calls went against us and we think the sending off was a case of mistaken identity. But we are through now and that’s all that matters” he concluded.

Roscommon manager Davy Burke and coach Lar Wall in conversation during the All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two match against Mayo in Dr Hyde Park last Saturday evening. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon’s Enda Smith gets through the challenge of Mayo’s Donnacha McHugh during their All-Ireland Football Championship Group Two match in Dr Hyde Park last Saturday evening. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Sports PEOPLE

team are relishing the opportunity to face Kerry on Saturday in the All-Ireland Minor Football quarter- nal.

Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Minors won’t fear Kerry – and will relish the challenge

All-Ireland MFC quarter-final: Roscommon v Kerry at Cusack Park, Ennis on Saturday at 6.30 pm

 SEAMUS DUKE

Memories of one of the greatest days in Roscommon’s recent football history will be revived this Saturday when James Duignan’s present-day minor football team face Kerry in Cusack Park in Ennis, the scene of that neverto-be-forgotten All-Ireland minor final replay win by Roscommon in 2006. While Kerry will start this weekend’s game as the deserved favourites, Roscommon are certainly not without a chance in this very intriguing quarterfinal.

Roscommon will have almost a full panel to pick from, although Sean McDonnell – who has been injured all year – is unlikely to make the matchday 24 in Ennis.

Since their opening day loss to Mayo in the Connacht Championship Roscommon have improved in every game and that includes that defeat against Mayo in the Connacht final when a few late mistakes cost them

dearly. They played very well against a Mayo side who are favourites to win this year’s All-Ireland, pushing their fellow westerners all the way.

Players like Gordon Casey, Eoin Collins, Dara Curran, Stephen Tighe and Shea McGuinness have been outstanding for Roscommon in the championship so far and they will hopefully be very influential again this weekend. Kerry swept to another Munster title with a 2-18 to 1-6 win against Cork. They have some outstanding performers, not least wing half-forward Gearoid White who scored 0-8 in that provincial final (with 0-6 from play). Others to watch out for on the Kerry side are Gavin O’Keeffe, Ronan Carroll, Ben Murphy and Joey McCarthy. Roscommon will have to produce their best performance of the year if they are to win this quarter-final but there is something special about this team, one that’s definitely improving with every outing. I won’t be a bit surprised if Roscommon produce a shock here but the smart money must be on Kerry.

Prediction: Kerry.

Note: Mayo will play Munster runnersup Cork in the opening game in Ennis on Saturday at 4.30 pm.

2006 is an extra motivating factor for us – Duignan

 SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon minor manager James Duignan told People Sport this week that his side are rearing to go after their very good display in the Connacht final against Mayo, where they lost by four points.

“Even though we lost the match, the

lads bounced back into training the following Tuesday night and they are really relishing a chance to play in the AllIreland series”.

The Roscommon manager says that the team are a joy to coach.

“There was great work done with these lads before they came to us (the current minor management). The coaches who were with them over the past few years

have done a marvellous job with them. They are a great bunch of lads”.

Duignan knows the history associated with this fixture (Roscommon’s AllIreland final replay win over Kerry in Ennis in 2006).

“We all know about the history and what happened here years ago and we have made the players aware of that too. It’s an extra motivating factor”.

The Roscommon manager says that the challenge they will face will be a big one but they are relishing the task ahead.

“Kerry are a good side of course but our attitude is to let our lads go out and play, and kick the ball as often as they can, and show the full range of their skills. We are thrilled to give this AllIreland series a crack”.

Roscommon minor manager James Duignan (left) says his