07 October 2022 Roscommon People

Kilcash group hails win for community

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Kilcash Wind Turbine Action Group has expressed thanks to everyone who sup ported their successful campaign against controversial plans to locate a wind turbine in the Kilcash, Farbreagues area of County Roscommon.

Kilcash resident and KWTAG member, Mary-Clare Maher was speaking to the Roscommon People following An Bord Pleanála’s decision to uphold Roscommon County Council’s refusal of planning permission for the project.

See full story, page 4.

by Jennifer Rock

Katie Glynn and Caoimhe Conneely pictured in Dr Hyde Park on Sunday for the senior quarter-final match between Strokestown and Oran. Pic: Mick McCormack

New Protections for European Union Consumers

New rules on consumer rights are set to be transposed into Irish Law through the Consumer Rights Bill 2022. The new rights arise from the European Union Directive 2019/2161, the Better enforcement and mod ernisation Directive. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) will be responsible for the enforcement of the provisions.

The new Directive’s rules address the challenges posed by digital traders, platforms and market places, and will equip consumer authorities with stronger tools to enforce consumer rights.

The new consumer protection rules will intro duce:

• An obligation on the digital platform / marketplace to clearly state whether a buyer (the consumer) engages in a purchasing transaction with a third-party vendor that is a professional seller or another private indi vidual (consumer-to-consumer transactions are not covered by EU legislation)

• An obligation on professional traders to pro vide information on who is responsible for delivery and returns

• An obligation on platforms and marketplaces to inform consumers about how seller offers are ranked in search results and identify paid advertisements, when this is the case

• An obligation on sellers for transparency on ‘tailored prices’ based on consumer location and behavioural profiling

• An obligation on sellers to disclose how they operate price reductions, which must be referenced against the product’s regular price recorded within the previous 30 days

• A ban on the resale of event tickets bought in bulk by professional traders that use online ‘bots’

• Fines of up to 4% or €2million of a trader’s turnover for breaches of consumer rights

• Tackling ‘dual quality’ products whereby branded goods sold as identical have differ ent compositions in different Member States

• A ban on manipulating or posting fake re views or endorsements either directly or via third parties

The main provisions of Directive 2019/2161, as above, will be transposed in Ireland through the Consumer Rights Bill 2022, with the Competi tion and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) responsible for the enforcement of the provisions.

WATCHINGPeople

With PAUL HEALY

So…MUST we talk about this self-imposed booze ban?

FRIDAY

Are we REALLY doing this? It’s a huge call!

Yes! We can do it!

Run it by me again…

So, it’s simple! We give up drink for Octo ber! It’s a thing now!

Huh! Everything’s a thing now!

It will be our ‘SO’! As in S.O. that is. Sober October!

You’re all ‘SO’ these days…

Huh?

I’ve noticed you’ve adopted that annoy ing new trend…of starting sentences with the word ‘so’…

So, I didn’t realise that… Anyways, are you serious about this so ber October idea?

Yep!

But we only meet up once or twice a week…and we’re usually still sober after we’ve been out…

Not entirely true…

IS it really a thing? I mean, I’ve heard of Dry November…

Yeah!

And Movember…

Huh?

Movember. Isn’t that where people grow a moustache for a good cause?

Oh yeah…

I suppose we could give up both drinking alcohol AND shaving…for November.

You’re conflating issues! Let’s stick with Sober October!

(They pause to raise a glass to the great Brian Mullins, who had many a tussle with Roscommon in the old days, and who has sadly passed away)

This is very short notice! Tomorrow is October 1st!

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

(They pause to savour their pints, both boyos wondering if they’ve wandered into ‘hostage to fortune’ territory…)

MONDAY

Eh…quiet weekend?

Yeah, just went to a couple of club games… Great…

SO, I suppose we have to talk about it… There you go again…

Huh?

Starting a sentence with ‘so’… Oh, sorry! So…this self-inflicted booze ban for October…(takes deep breath)…I pre sume you’re on for it?

Er…no problem. Are YOU still on board?

Eh…of course…

(They pause awkwardly, even longer than a typical Liz Truss pause)

Only thing is…

Yeah?

True (briefly panics, tries to catch bar man’s eye…)

Have we other options?

Well, we have to have a few beers in De cember…I suppose we could go with a Dry January…

We could call it ‘Keep the head down January’…

Not very catchy…

We could have a ‘Fit February’…

A mild March?

Abstemious April…

That’s some mouthful!

Point is, it wouldn’t be! And a Mineral May…or a Moderate May!

Juice June…as in juices only… Judge July…as in sober as a judge…

We have those two family celebrations in October… …and my in-laws are coming over in a week…

We usually take a Halloween break… You and I have tickets for that GAA func tion… Yeah…

SO, are you suggesting we leave it for now?

SO…are you?

Are YOU wilting?

NO! Are YOU?

No, but we do have those social events coming up…I mean, if it suited you better to defer…

Well, it might work for you too…

Both: You SO AND SO!

PEOPLE writing headlines…

Micheál Martin

The Fianna Fáil leader addressed his party’s Ard Fheis for the first time as Taoiseach, defending the Coalition’s record in government and giving every indication that he intends to remain close to the corridors of power for some time to come Kim Kardashian

Reality TV megastar Kim finally makes a wel come debut on this page…she’s in the news (when isn’t she?) after agreeing to pay over €1m in penalties for promoting a cryptocurrency on social media without first disclosing that she was being paid to do so

Erling Haaland

He’s Manchester City’s goal machine – and he has no intention of stopping! Erling Haaland’s hattrick in Sunday’s Manchester derby brought the 22-year-old’s goal tally for his new club in his first eight Premier League games to a remarkable 14 Shane Ross

The former government minister and long-time Sunday Independent contributor has written a bi ography of Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald

Order! (Orders two more pints)

CBS Roscommon at Beyond Limits Sligo

CBS Roscommon were rep resented at Beyond Limits, an event for children with disabili ties and their families that took place at Knocknarea Arena, ATU Sligo, on Saturday, Octo ber 1st. The event was organ ised by the Ombudsman for Children’s Office and over 300 people attended.

Beyond Limits is about recog nising the abilities and interests of children with disabilities. It

gives young people the oppor tunity to hear from children of all abilities and from adults who have faced similar challenges to them. The event was presented by disability ambassador and TV personality Paddy Smyth and featured a performance by country music star Derek Ryan.

As well as talks on the main stage, there were a number of activities and exhibitors sharing the work they do with children

with disabilities. Among them was CBS Roscommon.

CBS Roscommon’s exhibit was led by Orla O’Connor.

Orla was joined by some of the pupils from the special autism class in the school.

A second Beyond Limits event will take place in Limerick on Saturday, October 15th. Some tickets are still available at be yondlimits.ie, and the event will also be streamed live.

Pictured at the Beyond Limits event

Sligo

Saturday were CBS Roscommon’s Orla O’Connor, Louise Bracken, Eoin Fenton Hanly, Bren Healy, Adam Fallon and Craig Counihan.

An Bord Pleanála refuses permission for controversial Kilcash wind turbine

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An Bord Pleanála have backed Roscommon County Council’s decision to refuse planning for a controversial wind turbine in the Kilcash, Farbreagues area of County Roscommon.

The planning authority said it was not satisfied that adequate information had been provided regarding the impact the turbine would have on Special Protected Areas including Lough Ree, River Suck Callows, Lough Croan, and Four Roads Turlough.

It said that it was unable to ascertain, therefore, that the proposed development would not ad versely affect the integrity of a site under Euro pean Communities regulations.

Natural Forces Renewable Energy Ltd. had challenged the Council’s decision to refuse plan ning for the 150m turbine in February of this year and An Bord Pleanála made their decision on September 30th last.

Plans had included the construction of a 4.2 MW 150m wind turbine, a hard standing and as sembly area, the provision of a site entrance and access track, and an on-site 20kV substation and underground electrical cable.

A Natura Impact Statement had also been sub mitted at the request of the planning authority.

The turbine was vehemently opposed by local residents and the Kilcash Wind Turbine Action Group (KWTAG) was formed to fight the de velopment.

Public submissions lodged opposing the devel opment included concerns over damage to local protected sites and the environment as well as claims that the turbine would be in the flight path of migrating Hooper swans.

Reacting to the news this week, Kilcash resi dent and KWTAG member, Mary-Clare Maher said the group was “delighted and relieved” fol lowing the decision.

“It is great news for the area and we are de lighted and more so relieved by this decision,” she said.

“An Bord Pleanála mentioned the adverse im pact the development would have on the local environment and that is why we have been cam paigning for over 15 months.

“We are very thankful for the support we have received from the local community and the wid er community of Roscommon.

“The communities of Kilcash and Farbreagues came together on this because both communities would have been impacted by the development of a wind turbine. We are very thankful that the right decision has been made”.

Flashback to the initial campaign by Kilcash Wind Turbine Action Group… Jacob Fachel and Theo Kearney were pictured at the time supporting the opposition to a proposed wind turbine in the locality.

Cricketers set for St Coman’s’ hallowed turf!

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Members of Roscommon Strikers Cricket Club have welcomed a Ro scommon County Council decision to provide them with the use of legendary former GAA pitch, St. Coman’s Park.

Last month’s meeting of the local authority heard that the site would be leased to the club for three years at a nominal fee of €10 per year.

The outgoing Chief Executive Eu gene Cummins told the meeting that the lease would see the site used by the club and thanked Independent coun cillor Anthony Waldron for raising the issue.

Roscommon Strikers club member, Abin George, said the club was mostly made up of Indian staff from Roscom mon University and Sacred Heart Hospitals.

“We were playing in Cuisle in Dona mon for quite a while but it was closed when the Ukrainian people arrived. We have travelled to play in Dublin and other areas but we didn’t have a ground or a space of our own,” he said.

Abin paid tribute to the local County Council and in particular, Cllr. Wal dron for his assistance in finding a home for the cricketers.

“We are really thankful to Roscom mon County Council and to Cllr. An thony Waldron for making our dream come true because before this we didn’t have any facilities,” he said.

“The ground is very nice and we have some work to do to get it ready for cricket but hopefully we will be play ing there next season. We are hoping to promote the club and the game of cricket and our membership is increas ing all the time. It’s an enjoyable game to play and it also keeps us fit and ac tive”.

Cllr. Anthony Waldron said he was delighted to support the initiative and hoped it would lead to increased visi tors to the area.

“I was delighted to be able to help the Roscommon Strikers in finding a suit able space to train and play,” he said.

“Hopefully the presence of a cricket club in Roscommon town will be a boost for tourism with teams visiting the town from all over Ireland and even the UK”.

General Manager at Roscommon University Hospital, Mary Garvey, said the provision of facilities for the cricket club was a welcome boost to current staff and would help with fu ture recruitment.

“We are delighted that staff are in volved in the cricket club. We have an international staff here at Roscommon University Hospital and this is impor tant in terms of the future and the con tinuation of services at the hospital,” she said.

“We are always trying to attract in ternational staff and so the cricket club and facilities like it would increase the attractiveness of Roscommon as a place to live and work.

“From my point of view, it’s great for diversity and anything that makes Roscommon a better place to live is welcome. I’ve spoken to staff members who told me they were travelling to other areas to play so to have this on their doorstep will be a great boost”.

St. Coman’s was Roscommon GAA’s county ground from 1936 to 1971 when Dr. Hyde Park opened on the Athlone Road. The old pitch, known locally as ‘The Lough’, host ed a series of high profile matches in its heyday in front of thousands of supporters.

Local councillor Anthony Waldron pictured with members of the Roscommon Strikers Cricket Club at St. Coman’s Park in Roscommon town recently.

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

Thursday

It’s only a matter of weeks since Boris Johnson made that very reluctant exit from Number 10, but his chaotic (and memorable) tenure as Prime Minister has already received the full ‘TV drama’ treatment.

Episode one of the six-part ‘This England’ aired last night on Sky Atlantic (I recorded it). It had its flaws, but was entertaining, watchable drama. Kenneth Branagh is fairly convincing as Johnson, capturing many of the ex-PM’s physical idiosyncrasies very well. Ophelia Lovibond is even better as Johnson’s wife, Carrie Symonds.

This drama focuses on Johnson’s time as Prime Minister during the Covid-19 pandemic. While very much a drama, the series also uses real archival news footage, too often in my opinion. The best parts of episode one were the behind the scenes shenanigans in Downing Street, with the thoroughly dislikeable Dominic Cummings (played with suitable sullenness by Simon Paisley Day) weaving his brand of black magic. To paraphrase Eamon Dunphy, ‘This England’ appears to be good, not great, but I plan to stick with it.

Friday

I have three vivid memories of the 1979 All-Ireland senior football semi-final between Roscommon and Dublin.

It is, I think, credible for me to state that I was quite a young boy at the time. Although I had been in Croke Park before (in 1977 and ’78), I was mesmerised – and intimidated, I think – by the gladiatorial-like atmosphere at that fiercely contested semi-final in ’79.

My first vivid memory is of being scarily high in the Hogan Stand (yes, I know the sta dium is much steeper now), and of incredibly high noise levels as both sets of supporters cheered their heroes on in a nail-biting finale.

The pitch that day was certainly no place for the faint-hearted, the exchanges ferocious, the prize so great.

(My third vivid memory is of the crushing heartbreak at the final whistle, Roscommon losing to Dublin by a point).

My second vivid memory is of the maraud ing Brian Mullins being a thorn in Roscom mon’s side that day. My recall – as I wrote in my book ‘Nothing about sheep stealing’ – is of “each new bone-crushing tackle from Brian Mullins raising the ire of the Roscom mon fans”.

Mind you, when I asked former Roscom mon great Seamus Hayden this week for his memories of Mullins (see sport, page 43), he said the Dublin legend was no more physical than any midfielder of that era. And Seamus should know.

Hayden lavished praise on Mullins, who sadly died today at the relatively young age of 68. He was, without question, a giant of Gaelic football. May he rest in peace.

Friday

It was a real thrill to visit the Cheers bar in Bos ton a few years ago (not that anybody knew our names). We were in Boston a day or two when our hosts reminded us that the bar associated with the famous sitcom – Cheers – was located at Beacon Hill in the city centre. Next day, we went along. In actual fact, all the interior shots in the show were shot in studio, but the outside of this actual bar in Boston was the location for the iconic opening scenes of the comedy. So, along we went, taking the obligatory photos under the Cheers sign, and then proceeding inside, where there is a thriving bar – which naturally enough takes maximum advantage of its fame by selling Cheers memorabilia. It was a great experience.

All of this comes to mind because I heard on the radio that the famous sitcom is celebrating its 40th anniversary today. For many years I’ve been reminding readers that the greatest sitcom of all time is (of course) Fawlty Towers. It is also the case that many other English sitcoms are amongst the best ever made. But America has also excelled in this genre.

Cheers is a timeless sitcom, as funny now

as when it was first shown. 40 years ago, I was a huge fan (and still am). It was the show that launched the careers of numerous stars, including Ted Danson, Shelley Long, Woody Harrelson, Kirsty Alley, Kelsey Grammer, and many others. Norm (played by George Wendt) may just have been my favourite. Cheers was wonderful. To this day that theme song/opening sequence warms the heart and invites you down Nostalgia Avenue.

Saturday/Sunday

Shinrone winning their first ever Offaly senior hurling title might have been the sporting story of the weekend, but there was more than a touch of satisfaction in Strokestown and Ro scommon town as well!

The Roscommon SFC quarter-final wins by Strokestown and Roscommon Gaels – over Oran and Padraig Pearses respectively – were not major upsets, but to most people they were surprise results.

Strokestown and Roscommon Gaels are two clubs with proud histories and an unquenchable thirst to contest for honours. Now, one of those clubs will feature in the 2022 final, as they meet in one of this weekend’s semi-finals.

Also into the Hodson Bay Hotel SFC last four are St Brigid’s and Boyle, and these two will meet in a North-South semi-final showdown this weekend. See our sports section.

Sunday

I’m really not a betting man, but, after seeing he was 10/3 to do so, it did cross my mind to put a few euro on Irling Haaland to score at least twice in today’s Manchester derby. Easy money, I thought at the time, before proceed ing to do nothing about it. Haaland went on to score three goals as Manchester City easily accounted for rivals United, Pep’s men win ning 6-3.

Haaland is currently busy ripping up English football’s scoring charts. It’s not that long ago since a striker was deemed to be a prolific scorer if he could average a goal every two games. A 20-goal-a-season man was much in demand, and much respected. I grew up on the goal-every-two-games exploits of guys like Malcolm Macdonald, Ian Rush, Gary Lineker, Andy Cole, Ian Wright, the great Alan Shearer, and many others.

Just when forwards thought it was ‘safe’ to merely average a goal every two games – maybe a little better – along came Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to set outrageous new standards. Now Haaland looks likely to raise the bar further. I tend to agree with Joe Molloy of Newstalk’s Off The Ball who (slightly grimly) suggested that the fascination with the Premier League this season relates not to who will win the title (Manchester City are odds-on) – but with the question of how many goals Haaland will end up scoring.

Monday

On Sky Sports, Leicester were hammering poor Nottingham Forest, so I went channelhopping. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry – well, I was hardly going to laugh – when fate brought me to the new series of

‘The 2 Johnnies Do America’.

I watched the first ten minutes. The easy thing to do is to pour scorn on it. In truth, they do a decent job. But it’s not for me. The format of such shows is tediously predictable, whereby the presenters engage in a series of staged setpiece exchanges with chosen topics/ people. Cue much forced hilarity. Such shows can be reasonably entertaining – after all, travel does broaden the mind – but they’ve invariably been concocted purely as a vehicle for the ‘stars’. As further evidence of this trend, I’ll refer you to Marty and Bernard!

In fairness, I saw the 2 Johnnies being inter viewed on the Late Late Show the other night (another moment of weakness on my part), and they are undoubtedly two nice, likeable fellows. But so is the guy down the pub. The 2 Johnnies are a bit of craic, they’re cheerful and friendly, but where their supposed comic talent lies is beyond me. Still, good luck to them!

Up Éire Óg! Sarah and Sophie Raftery pictured with their dad Gary at last weekend’s Roscommon IFC quarterfinal against St Brigid’s in Enfield. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The Hair Boutique celebrates one year in

The Hair Boutique opened on Church Street in Roscommon town on Au gust 20th, 2021 during what was an uncertain time for businesses postCovid. Since then, however, the hair salon, under the stewardship of Siné ad O’Grady, has gone from strength to strength.

Originally from Fourmilehouse, Siné ad now lives in Rahara with her partner Shane and children Jay and Mia.

“It has been great so far. We’ve been very busy and I want to say thank you to all the customers who have come in from all across Roscommon and fur ther afield,” Sinéad said.

“The Hair Boutique marked its first anniversary on August 20th and so there was 20 per cent off on all the products we use here. We had plenty of people coming in to buy products and it was another good day for the business. We had a little party at the end with treats supplied by Molloy’s Bakery and flow ers from Signature Flowers, both of whom were really helpful. It was great to mark the occasion”.

The lifting of lockdown restrictions has seen an increase in business for suppliers of weddings and other special events and The Hair Boutique has been kept busy this year.

“I’ve done a few weddings this year which has been brilliant. The lifting of

Covid-19 restrictions was a real boost for wedding suppliers of course. From Thursday on, I’m busy with weddings and people going to weddings,” Sinéad said.

“I also had a great summer with gradu ations and debs – I’m thankful for that. I’m always available to take on more

of those appointments too. I’ve already got a lot of Christmas appointments in the book so I’d advise people to book as soon as possible to avoid disappoint ment.

“Looking ahead to 2023, there are a number of Communion bookings already which just shows that people

are looking forward and planning for special occasions once again”.

The Hair Boutique stocks products from suppliers such as Joico, Alfaparf, Olaplex and colour options from Alter Ego and Revlon and Sinéad says there is more in store this Christmas.

“I also offer Hairtalk extensions here

so customers can pop in for a consulta tion where we match up the hair colour and take it from there,” she said.

“Looking ahead to Christmas gift ide as, we will have Olaplex sets, and La naiblo hairdryers in store from the end of October. There’s great value in them and we will also have our very popular gift vouchers”.

Sinéad says that doing business in Ro scommon has been made easier thanks to the support of neighbours and the availability of parking in the area.

“I love working on Church Street; it’s great for parking with the car park at the back and the Council car park just up the street. There are also a few busi nesses open and that is driving footfall here too,” she said.

“I just want to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped me in my first year in business. I work late on Thursdays so my family chips in and help out with the kids. It’s also great to have so many local tradespeople at the end of the phone.

“I also want to thank my loyal custom ers from Roscommon town and from Fourmilehouse and Rahara. I really ap preciate the support over the past year,” Sinéad concluded.

To find out more about the services on offer at The Hair Boutique or to book an appointment, call 087-3489922.

Sinéad O’Grady, The Hair Boutique, Church Street, Roscommon town.

The fourth annual Roscommon/Longford Garda Youth Awards Ceremony take place this Thursday October 6th in the foyer of the Roscommon County Council Build ings, in Roscommon Town from 7 p.m.

Once again this year, both Roscommon and Longford County Councils are kindly sponsoring the initiative. Refreshments will be served from 7 p.m. with proceed ings beginning from 7.30 p.m.

The awards honour outstanding young people between the ages of 13 and 21 years of age in the Roscommon Longford Garda Division recognising the good work being done by young people in every com munity in both counties.

This year’s awards will be four indi viduals or groups recognised in each cat egory along with one special recognition award. Each winner will be presented with a certificate, a trophy and a one for all voucher.

Each person/group that was nominat ed will also be presented with a ‘Certifi cate of Nomination’ on the night so no one will be going home empty handed. The

categories: the individual award, the Special Achievement Award, the group award and the Community Safety Award.

a winner’s certificate and a €200 ‘One for All’ voucher with the exception of any group recipi ent, which in such a case, will receive vouchers to the value of €400.

include: Sinead Hussey – RTE Midlands Cor respondent, Turlough McGovern – Cathao irleach of Longford County Council; Cathal

Notice of Passing of Resolution to Vary Basic Rate of Local Property Tax

The Finance (Local Property Tax) Act 2012 (as amended), makes specific provision that Elected Members of a local authority may pass a formal resolution to vary the basic rate of the Local Property Tax for their administrative area by a percentage known as the Local Adjustment Factor.

Article 10 of the Local Property Tax (Local Adjustment Factor) Regulations 2014 requires a local authority that has decided to vary the basic rate of the local property tax within its administrative area to give public notice of that decision.

Notice is hereby given that at the meeting of Roscommon County Council held on 26th of September 2022 a formal resolution was passed to the effect that the basic rate of local property tax should stand varied upwards by 15 per cent for the year 2023 and 2024 with regard to relevant residential properties situated in the administrative area of Roscommon County Council. The variation in the Local Property Tax rate applies for a period of two years from the next local property tax liability date.

3rd October 2022

Shane Tiernan

Chief Executive (Temp)

Roscommon County Council

Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98

mon County Council and Inspector David Cryan of An Garda Síochána.

Master of Ceremonies at Thursday’s awards will be the aforementioned In spector David Cryan with Chief Superin tendent Ray McMahon, Superintendent Fran Nicholson of Roscommon Garda Station and Superintendent Seamus Boyle of Longford Garda Station also at tending the awards.

Cathaoirligh of both Longford and Ro scommon County Councils, Cllr’s Turlough McGovern and Tom Crosby will also speak on behalf of both local authorities to honour all of the award winners and the nominees to the various categories.

DERMOT EARLEY BURSARY 2022 – 2023

Roscommon County Council established an annual Sports Bursary in honour of the late Dermot Earley. These scholarships will afford financial assistance to two successful candidates, one male and one female residing in County Roscommon and attending his/her first year in 3rd level education beginning Autumn 2022, with an accomplished background in sport.

NewsG DThe page

Castlerea Library launches new resource for visually impaired

As part of the ‘Make Way Day’ campaign which took place last Fri day (September 30th), Roscommon County Council, through its library network, are showcasing a new device at their Castlerea branch, aimed at supporting service users who are visually impaired, dyslexic and those with other needs.

The new device is called an ‘i-See HD electronic magnifier’ and has been recommended specifically by the National Council for the Blind (NCBI). The equipment was sup plied and installed by the NCBI along with training provided for library staff and users.

The device is designed to be easy and accessible to use. It can in crease text and image size to more than 70 times the original size, making it suitable for use by people with different levels and types of visual impairment. The device has settings that make letters clearly legible, aiding users with visual im pairments, literacy needs and peo ple with dyslexia.

The idea for such a facility emerged after Castlerea branch li

brarian Breege Beirne, was ap proached by library user, Pearse Bolger, to establish if the branch could source equipment that would assist visually impaired persons to read and study books in the library.

The library service researched various options and worked closely with the NCBI to source the most suitable equipment. The NCBI facilitated Pearse to try various equipment in their offices in Ath lone before making a recommen dation on the equipment.

The equipment was purchased by Roscommon County Council through the support of the Dormant Accounts Fund. Pearse Bolger, together with his guide dog Quan tum, was in attendance in Castlerea Library to showcase the device.

Speaking at the library, Mr. Bolger thanked Roscommon County Council, branch librarian Breege Beirne and Cllr. Antho ny Waldron specifically for the great support he received, claim ing the new device would have “a transformative effect” on how he and other service users would

be able to utilise library services.

“This new facility allows me to make better use of my local library facilities. As someone with a visual impairment, I can once again read and study various books and news papers suitable to my interests, greatly supporting my independ ence and quality of life in general,” Pearse said.

Independent councillor Anthony Waldron also acknowledged the support of NCBI and Roscommon County Council.

“I would like to pay particular trib ute to the local authority for their foresight and initiative in delivering this valuable service to library us ers, not just like Pearse, but to oth ers who may be visually impaired, or find this device useful. I would like to see further investment in making Council services more ac cessible,” he said.

Roscommon County Librarian Sandra Turner said Roscommon County Council were delighted to promote the new device under the Government’s Dormant Accounts funding stream.

‘Hero of the Year’ award for Josie

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Roscommon woman, Josie Reynolds, has been named ‘Hero of the Year’ in the National Lottery Good Causes Awards which took place at the Killashee House Hotel in Naas on Saturday evening.

As well as her ‘Hero of the Year’ award, Josie also received €5,000 in prize money while The Melting Pot was also nominated in the Community category at this year’s awards.

A native of Ballyleague, Josie, who has been volun teering with The Melting

Pot in Roscommon town for the past five years, said she was both surprised and delighted to receive the ac colade.

Josie was nominated for the award following a bal lot among staff and board members.

According to manager Monica Gaffney, The Melting Pot is a commu nity initiative which offers support to people on their mental health recovery journey by offering them volunteering and work experience opportunities in the café, charity shop or community space.

Monica explained why Josie had been nominated for the award: “She’s just amazing and we don’t know what we do without her. What she has done for the community and how she looks after people and knows if someone needs to talk or needs space or if someone is suffering in the background. She’s an amazing lady”.

Josie had acted as a carer for both her parents up until their deaths 19 years ago, and said that volun teering at The Melting Pot had given her a sense of purpose.

Community Games success!

The Community Games National Finals for outdoor team events took place at the University of Limerick on September 24th and there was some success for Ballaghaderreen.

Ballaghaderreen’s U-14 Skittles team represented Connacht with distinction, taking home a bronze medal in the process.

In the semi-finals Ballaghaderreen were defeated by a strong team from Tintern (Wexford) who went onto win the Gold medal.

In the play-off for Bronze, Bal

laghaderreen met Magheracloone (Monaghan) in what was a really close match with Ballaghaderreen emerging as winners on a score of 280-234.

Congratulations to the team of Uneeb Ali-Fazaazi, Mohamed Ali Agha, Rahman Azizi, Idrissa Serry and Hanibal Tasfazgi and managers Declan Regan and Alice Naughton.

The team included four com petitors from the Ballaghaderreen EROC centre from Syria, Afghani stan, Sierra Leone, and Eritrea.

“The award means so much…it’s such a shock I can’t believe it. When my name was called out I thought I was hearing things! It means an awful lot to me,” she said.

“My parents are 19 years gone this year but I did eve rything for them and unfor tunately when they died, sense went. I moved from home and it was Andy Mc Donald who brought me over here. I started work ing in the café and I love it. I’ve met so many people. I love the people coming in and I love helping them,” she said.

County Librarian Sandra Turner, Castlerea Library branch librarian Breege Beirne, library user Pearse Bolger and his dog Quantum, and Cllr. Anthony Waldron pictured at Castlerea Library last Friday.

Ballaghaderreen’s U-14 Skittles team who were Bronze medal winners at the National Finals in UL last week.

Mac Innes Photography

€5,000 Euromillions prize won in Strokestown

One lucky Hanly’s Euro spar (Strokestown) cus tomer is celebrating after scooping €5,000 in Tuesday night’s Euromillions raffle.

Congratulating the lucky player, manager Frank Han

ly said he was delighted to receive a message from the National Lottery confirm ing the news.

“It’s great news for one of our customers this week and it was nice to receive

the message confirming that we had a prize winner here. It’s always great to hear of people winning lottery priz es in the local area. Hope fully this is just the start of it now!”

People of Roscommon County asked to nominate Ireland’s Volunteer of the Year

Nominations are now open for the 2022 Volunteer Ireland Awards and the public is being asked to submit nominations for Ireland’s ‘Volunteer of the Year’. The Volunteer Ireland Awards take place annually and celebrate the immense contribution volunteers make to communities across Ireland. Visit www.volunteer.ie/nominate-a-volunteer/ to nominate a volunteer for a Volunteer Ireland Award.

Roscommon Volunteer Centre Manager, Shannette Budhai, said: “These awards give us the opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary kindness and generosity of Roscommon’s volunteers. As we emerge from a pandemic during which volunteers provided crucial supports, volunteers are once again selflessly stepping forward, this time in welcoming and supporting displaced Ukrainian people in communities across Ireland. “But it’s not just in times of crisis that Roscommon’s volunteers make such an outstanding impact. All year round, volunteers are the beating hearts of our community – caring for animals and the environment, helping with sports and cultural events, and supporting the wellbeing of others. The Volunteer Ireland Awards give us a chance to say thank you by celebrating the invaluable contribution volunteers make to Irish society.”

The 2022 Volunteer Ireland Awards are made possible thanks to the support of the Department of Rural and Community Development, and award partners Healthy Ireland.

This year’s Volunteer Ireland Awards will take place in Dublin in December. The public are invited to submit their nominations for the following 11 categories:

• Arts, Culture & Festivals

• Campaigning & Activism

• Children & Youth

• Environmental & Animal Care

• Health & Wellbeing

• Safety & Emergency Services

• Social Inclusion & Community Support

Sports & Recreation

Small group

Large group

Volunteer Manager

All individual awardees (except Volunteer Manager) are eligible for the overall Volunteer of the Year Award. Nominations close at midnight on Sunday, 9 October and can be made online at www.volunteer.ie/nominate-a-volunteer/

Pictured above Kieran Dowd, Winner of Roscommon Volunteer Centre’s Volunteer of the Year 2021 award.

People of all ages enjoying Billy Comer’s Tractor & Trailers Tours at the Glenamaddy Agricultural Show last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

FRANK BRANDON

BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

O’Driscoll sheds light on struggles some men face

Our man Frank on Brian O’Driscoll’s mental health documentary; The passing of a Creggs Rugby stalwart; A local Lip Sync countdown…and more

When I was a young lad (and even when I was not so young), rugby was a game that was sort of looked upon as only being played by upper class, private school boys – a sport which was definitely not to be found in small rural places like Creggs, Monivea or Dunmore.

Things began to change in the 1970s, and the arrival on the rugby scene of small village clubs meant that the game was now being played

Whisper it… Lip Sync weekend coming up!

by people from all walks of life. It was no longer the ‘property’ of the upper classes.

Suddenly, rugby was getting more and more popular. The big interna tional games became great social occasions, and by the 1980s every one was familiar with the stars of the Irish international teams; men like Moss Keane, Fergus Slattery, Ciaran Fitzgerald and Willie Duggan were household names.

Trips to Lansdowne Road became a regular occurrence for lots of us culchies, and rugby weekends in Dublin were certainly not for the faint-hearted. There was always a sus picion that rugby was more a social game than the likes of Gaelic football or hurling – rugby matches invariably led to major drinking sessions. For all

their wonderful ability as rugby play ers, people like Moss and Willie were as well known for their socialising as for their playing skills.

Then it all changed in 1995, when rugby went professional. All of a sud den, lads were making a good living from playing a game they loved – but of course the fact that they were now playing for their own and their fami lies’ futures brought new and unwel come pressures.

For example, there was Brian O’Driscoll, arguably Ireland’s best ever rugby player, who enjoyed 15 years as a top professional. However, in his new documentary ‘After The Roar’, he reveals the huge effect that retirement from the game had on him, and his struggles to deal with the sub sequent loss of identity.

Suddenly, he was no longer ‘Brian the rugby player’. The structure he had in his life was gone, as was the adulation of the adoring crowd. He was no longer part of a dressing room, and he went through a few years of something not unlike depression.

In the documentary, which is well worth a watch, he visits other re cently retired sportsmen, including Tony McCoy and Gareth South gate. All of those featured spoke of how they suffered from withdrawal symptoms, and how their mental health was affected. O’Driscoll got psychotherapist Richie Sadlier on board for the programme, and candidly discussed his experiences with him, which is the most telling thing about the whole documentary – the fact that Brian is willing to

open up about his struggles and the effects on his mental health.

It has long been recognised that when it comes to possible mental health issues, most men won’t seek any help, and will instead carry on pretending/lying to themselves and everyone else that everything is grand. Many will bottle it all up, often leading to an inevitable, tragic result.

For someone like Brian O’Driscoll to bravely face the cameras and tell his story has to be an inspiration to any man struggling with mental health is sues. No matter how bad things are, there is help out there. Oftentimes, it can really help to simply talk about it.

So I suppose the message is that if you are struggling, don’t ignore the problem – go and seek help. It is out there.

And finally…

Here in Creggs, the local school’s Parents’ As sociation (under the guidance of Grace Cun niffe) are holding a two-night Lip Sync show in the school hall on both Friday, October 14th and Saturday, October 15th (from 7 pm).

The Friday night show is for families, with tickets costing €5 for kids and €10 for adults. Meanwhile, the Saturday night show is for adults only, with admission at €15. Tickets are on sale in the school and in O’Rourke’s. You can also pay on the door.

Back in 2019, the first of these shows took place, and local TD Michael Fitzmaurice almost brought the house down (literally). That year, Gibby and I did the Crosswell version of Kenny and Dolly’s ‘Islands in the Stream’. I was so good that I have been moved upstairs and am now a highly qualified judge.

There will be no alcohol allowed on the Friday night – being family night – but on the Saturday night adults can bring their own tipple with them, support the local school, and have an absolute ball! I can’t wait to see you all there!

See you in Dowd’s!

As I told you last week, Paddy Lally is celebrating his 80th birthday with a ‘do’ in Dowd’s of Glinsk on Saturday, October 8th, with music by the wonderful Lancers. Any contributions people make will go to Cancer Care West. Everyone is welcome, so be sure to come along.

Dowd’s is the place to be this Saturday night. It will be great to welcome back live music and dancing after the tribulations of Covid. See you there!

A dining treat

It’s Thursday evening as I write, and Carol and I are com ing home from a hospital appointment in Galway. As it’s now late in the evening, we are getting hungry, but the option of cooking when we get home doesn’t appeal, so we decide to stop off somewhere for a bite to eat.

For a long time now I’ve been hearing good reports about the food in Screene’s of Guilka (near Menlough), and so we made a little detour off the main Galway road.

Jimmy Screene was a serious rugby player back in the day, a man who won a number of Ireland ‘A’ caps and

who was a key member of a very successful Buccaneers senior team. Now he runs a successful pub and restaurant in Guilka.

When we visited on Thursday evening the place was busy – but not too packed – and everything about our visit was exactly as we hoped it would be. The food was ex cellent, as was the service, which was provided by very friendly and affable staff. The value was simply amazing. So if you get a chance, pay it a visit! It will be well worth it.

Wishing our local ladies the best of luck

Out here in Creggs, county finals don’t come our way that often, but on this Saturday evening at 4.45 pm in the St Faithleach’s grounds in Ballyleague, the ladies of St Ciaran’s (which, of course, is an amalgamation of Creggs and Fuerty) take on Boyle in the

Intermediate County Final.

For Fuerty supporters, it will be a busy day, as they will already have played St Dominic’s in the men’s semi-final, but let’s hope everyone that can will be able to make it to Ballyleague to support the ladies. I have no doubt Boyle

will be serious opponents and will be very confident of winning it themselves, but I truly believe Ciaran’s can bring home the cup and give us a reason to celebrate and light the bonfires all over the parish.

Come on ladies, ye can do it!

Here in Creggs Rugby Club, we are mourning the loss of John Egan. He was a man who played a huge part in the development of the club, and who was in every way a larger than life character.

John was one of the few men that I ever saw casu ally pick up a six-inch block in either hand, while I was struggling to lift a fourinch one with both hands. When we played in our first ever cup final in 1977, he manned the second row with Seamus Keane. For a good few years afterwards, ‘The horse’ Egan (who re ally was a horse of a man) was a stalwart of the pack, both as a second row and a prop forward. His contribu tion to Creggs Rugby Club, both on and off the field, was immense.

Sadly, John passed away last week. To his wife Anne, his sons Kieran, John and Padraig, and his extended family and friends, we ex tend our deepest sympathy. As someone who was lucky enough to have played alongside him for a number of years, and who benefited from his ever-willing pro tection on the field, I can truly say we will never see his likes again. May he rest in peace.

Brian O’Driscoll

Weddings Open Day at Abbey Hotel

On Saturday, the 8th of October we are inviting all newly-engaged couples to join us at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon for our intimate Autumn Wedding Open Day from 12 noon-4 pm.

Our stunning ballroom and Fortfield Suite will be open on the day for viewings and couples will have a chance to meet with a select number of our wedding sup pliers. There will be special offers from our recommended suppliers and any cou ples who book on the day will get a 10 % discount of their preferred package ( based on bookings of minimum numbers of 120 persons).

Enjoy an informal show-around, meet our team and enjoy some canapes and a glass of bubbly on the day.

The White Cakes Wedding Band will be live to showcase their wedding repertoire and will have a special offer on the day for all our Abbey Wedding couples.

All couples who come along and book

on the day will be entered in a free draw to win some exciting wedding supplier vouchers, plus a midweek overnight stay in the Abbey is up for grabs.

Register your details by email to wed dings@abbeyhotel.ie. Tel 090 66 66211. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates.

Council asked to ‘see sense’ following Castlerea house fire

< DAN DOONER

Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice has urged Roscommon County Council to “see sense” and reopen Castlerea Fire Station following a seri ous house fire in the town last weekend which left a woman hospitalised.

The woman (80s) managed to escape the blaze at the Harristown property in the early hours of Sun day morning after she was alerted by her smoke alarm before being taken to hospital as crews bat tled to bring the fire under control.

Roscommon County Council said that fire ser vices from Ballaghaderreen, Ballyhaunis and Roscommon responded ‘without delay’, with the first engine arriving on scene at 12.33 am. Crews eventually brought the fire under control at around 4 am.

Cllr. Fitzmaurice, who tabled a motion at last month’s meeting of the local authority calling for the reopening of Castlerea Fire Station, said the town was being “unfairly treated” and called on the Council executive to reinstate the service which closed in 2017.

“First and foremost, I feel very sorry for the fam ily and wish the woman involved a full and speedy recovery.

“(In raising the motion) last week, I had warned that I had serious concerns that a serious incident would occur,” Cllr Fitzmaurice told the Roscom mon People this week.

“The Council executive said we had adequate response times and showed statistics that said Cas tlerea was at a low risk level but I don’t accept that.

Run Walk ‘N’ Roll returns for 2022

Run Walk ‘N’ Roll is an annual fun, family event which takes place in Boyle. The local and wider community come together to raise funds for can cer research. This is a 5.4km Run/Walk and fun day for all ages and abilities. It’s up to each person to decide how to complete the 5km. Entry is on the day and light refreshments will be served af terwards. For those who do not wish to take part on the day, they can donate online.

No matter how big or small the donation, all support is greatly appreciated. For further infor mation, contact Damian on 086-3942388 or send a message to the Run Walk ‘N’ Roll Facebook or Instagram page. Find us on Facebook Run N Walk Roll and Instagram @run_walk_n_roll.

“Castlerea is a large and growing town and many people come here to work in the factories and at the prison. We should have our own fire service here and I would appeal to Roscommon County Coun cil to revisit the situation because I will be raising this again.

“Castlerea is the largest town of its size in Ro scommon without this service and I feel that we are being treated unfairly. I would ask the Council to see sense and return the fire service to the town.

“The fire services from Ballaghaderreen and Bal lyhaunis attended the fire in Castlerea on Sunday morning, but what happens if there was a second fire in either of those towns at the same time? If an accident can happen it will. I don’t want to see any town lose its fire service,” he said.

In the wake of Sunday morning’s fire, Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has also called for the reo pening of Castlerea’s Fire Station.

Senator Eugene Murphy said he would continue

to campaign for a proper service to be established in the town.

“We must re-establish the Castlerea fire service but also ensure the services in Elphin, Strokes town and Ballaghaderreen continue at their pre sent level of service,” he said.

Senator Murphy vowed to work with local coun cillors and residents on the matter but expressed dismay that he wasn’t invited to a meeting to dis cuss the issue recently.

“It is important that all Oireachtas members are kept informed and allowed to engage on the is sue,” he said.

“I want to assure the local business people who contacted me that I was not made aware of the re cent meeting to discuss Castlerea Fire Station but would have been there if invited,” he concluded.

What fire service said…

Roscommon Fire Service said a working smoke alarm was “instrumental” in ensuring the safety of the woman evacuated during Sunday’s house fire in Castlerea.

“Roscommon Fire Services is pleased to confirm that the operation of a fully functioning alarm system was instrumental in protecting the safety of the occupant of the property in Harristown on Sunday morning,” a statement read.

“The County Roscommon Fire Service would like to acknowledge the work of fire personnel at the scene who brought the fire under control in an efficient and safe manner”.

Dumpers make clean getaway!

Local Gardaí have launched an investiga tion after 86 plastic and cast-iron baths were found dumped in the Ballaghader reen area late last week. 22 baths were discovered on the side of the road close to Cullathane bog on Wednesday of last week

newsbriefs

A thank you from Caroline and James

Caroline and James Feeley, Mantua, would like to thank everyone who attended the Coffee Morning in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice at their home recently and all who kindly donated. The event raised a total of €660.

Mobile Library monthly services resume

Roscommon Mobile Library will restart monthly visits to Keadue, Ballyfarnon, Rooskey and Tarmonbarry in the coming weeks.

The monthly stop will resume on Main Street, Keadue on Thursday, October 13th from 1 pm to 1.30 pm and continue every fourth Thursday thereafter. The Mobile Library will visit the church in Ballyfarnon on Thursday, October 13th from 2 pm to 3 pm and every fourth Thursday thereafter. The service will return to Rooskey (opposite the church) on Thursday, October 27th from 1.30 pm to 2 pm and continue every fourth Thursday thereafter. The library will also resume at Barry’s Court, Tarmonbarry on Thursday, October 27th from 2.30 pm to 3.30 pm and every fourth Thursday thereafter.

Talk on Christian faith in today’s world

A talk on the topic of Christian faith in today’s world, entitled ‘What do the Gospels have to say to our world today?’, will take place in St Coman’s Wood Primary School, Roscommon (junior site) on Wednesday, October 19th

The speaker is Very Rev. Michael Drumm, PP, Rosses Point, Sligo. There will be tea/coffee at 7.15 pm and the talk will follow from 7.30 pm to 8.45 pm. All are welcome to attend.

RSPCA church gate collections

The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is holding its annual church gate collection on the 8th and 9th of October in Killina, Breedogue, Athleague, Fuerty, and Kilbegnet churches. As always, your support is greatly appreciated.

before a further 64 were found on Friday. The environmental section of Roscom mon County Council was notified and visited the site last Friday while Balla ghaderreen Gardaí have since launched an investigation into the matter.

The gutted house in Castlera.

Miriam’s MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Nobody dials 999 for the fun of it

Thankfully, during the course of my lifetime, I’ve had no reason to be in a situation whereby I needed to dial 999 and request Garda assistance. That doesn’t mean I haven’t had a lot of interaction (all of it positive) with members of An Garda Síochána in the course of my work – both as an investigative journalist and as an animal welfare officer. I also had the privilege and the pleasure of deliver ing training to members of the force, mainly at Store Street Garda Station in Dublin, over a number of years regarding animal welfare and legisla tion, etc.

I have enormous respect for those who, on a daily basis, put on that fab new uniform and, more importantly, place their lives on the line in a bid to keep us, the citizens of Ireland, safe.

However, I have to say folks – if I did ever need to dial 999 for Garda assistance, I’d expect the call-taker

at the other end of the line to be professional, polite, empathetic and efficient. Not only that, I’d assume I could trust them to be trained to such a high specification that they’d ask me – the distressed, vulnerable caller – leading questions regarding my situation. Questions like the level of threat I believed my predicament posed, my location, my contact infor mation and other relevant details per taining to the circumstances which had forced me into this emergency position.

What I would not expect is that the individual tasked with dealing with delicate and possibly life-threatening situations would be ‘rude’, ‘impa tient’ or that they’d ‘lack empathy’ with me. However, given the shock ing findings from the report commis sioned by ‘the Garda oversight body’ into the ‘incorrect cancellation of 999 calls’ between January 2019 and Oc

tober 2020, it seems this was the case.

It’s not my intention to pass judge ment on our Gardaí, the majority of whom are (in my opinion) heroes who’re totally dedicated to doing their job. However, Commissioner Harris’ acknowledgement that there were “missed opportunities” to en gage with callers, saying he could not give a “complete assurance about the behaviour of those who take the calls”, is not only pathetic – it’s ex tremely disquieting. Why? Because since his appointment in 2018 (to the tune of €250,000 a year), it has been his job to oversee the day-to-day run ning of our police force, and to put it bluntly, he should be able to give us, the public, his ‘complete assurance’!

For the sake of balance and fairness, I’d like to recognise that these ‘short comings’ around ‘cancelled calls’ were isolated incidents, which are far outweighed by the public’s positive

experiences with wonderful rank and file Gardaí. I’d also like to specifical ly stress that I’m certain the majority of those individuals based in control rooms not only work extremely hard, they also do it in exceptionally diffi cult, stress-inducing circumstances; and their trauma should never be overlooked.

Indeed, as emergency call-takers are making vitally important deci sions hour in, hour out, ones which can affect lives, it’s crucial that interventions are made to ensure these hugely important personnel can fully cope with their workload, their duties, and the challenges they undoubtedly face.

That said, while the force has a re sponsibility regarding these call-tak ers’ welfare, it equally has a respon sibility around the welfare, wellbeing and safety of those who’re making the calls, because – how can I put it

– nobody dials 999 for the fun of it!

Far be it from me to presume I could offer advice to our Garda Commissioner, but offer it I will. When Mr Harris has finalised the disciplinary process (and those who messed up should be taken to task), since emergency call-takers need to quickly evaluate the seri ousness posed in a situation (and to do that they depend on the caller to provide a speedy report), per haps, moving forward, he could do the following: Implement a series of top quality training initiatives, strict supervision and ongoing psychological assessment for calltakers, because it’s only then that the public can have ‘complete as surance’ that the voices at the end of the line tasked with doing one of the country’s toughest jobs are both capable and competent enough to deal with all circumstances.

Finger-wagging, tut-tutters need to back-off bottle-feeding mothers

Has the ‘sleepwear-as-daywear’ trend taken over? I hope not!

I may be crossing a boundary here, but I believe there’s absolutely no reason for anyone to wear pyjamas/nightclothes out to the shops. Why? Because sleep wear is not acceptable outdoor attire!

It’s for this reason I applaud owners of the ‘Sage & Stone’ café in County Meath, who recently posted a ‘no pyja mas allowed’ rule on social media, add ing they ‘draw the line at people coming to dine in our café for breakfast wearing their pyjamas’ – and rightly so.

I hate to sound morally outraged, but while some believe that wearing their jammies to the supermarket, or while meeting friends for brunch is the height of fashion, for others (myself included), it’s viewed as being the height of lazi

ness! Why? Because you’ve just slept in them!

I don’t care if the label inside those jammies says Versace, or if they’re a cheap ‘n’ cheerful, serviceable, well washed, bobbly cotton pair bought lo cally, or a leopard print onesie sourced online – it’s unhygienic. Oh and by the way, if the style-statement you were aiming for was messy-just-rolled-outoff-bed-chic ‘n’ yummy, let me tell you hon, you missed… it’s slummy!

If you’ve just spent eight hours toss ing, turning and sweating in these clothes, they’re crumpled and cov ered in cornflakes, toothpaste and, ahem, other stains. You need to do the decent thing and take them off,

pop them into the linen basket and pull on some form of clean and com fy daywear!

Please!

Don’t get me wrong readers, I’m not saying we should all turn up at the cof fee-shop Kardashian-ready! Nay nay, and sure I’m far from being a ‘dedicated follower of fashion’ myself. However, given the roll-call of Ugg-boot shod, pouting, Hello Kitty jammie-wearing poseurs I’ve witnessed trudging around some supermarkets lately (one or two of which are only short of accessoris ing with the duvet), I’m concerned the sleepwear-as-daywear trend is taking over, and sadly, common decency and self-respect have flown straight out the window!

According to a report in the Irish Independent, Sabina Hig gins (Michael D’s wife), while speaking at a ‘Latching On’ event, warned that new moth ers were being “thrown out” of hospital after giving birth, when they actually needed to be al lowed to remain longer to learn how to breastfeed.

I fully agree with Mrs Higgins that mothers are being ‘thrown out’ of hospitals too soon follow ing what is (in my humble opin ion, having given birth twice) a physically traumatic experience on one’s body; it’s also an emo tional one, albeit those emotions are filled with love and relief.

Where I don’t agree is in the fact that Mrs Higgins appears to favour the breast-feeders over the bottle-feeders. Therefore, I must ask if this means she believes that those who opt for formula should be turfed out of hospital with priority given to those who ‘latch-on’?

I mean, why should the exclu sively breastfeeding mothers get to stay for a few extra days in hos pital – and those of us whose ba bies hungrily gulp down a bottle

of formula get slung out twentyfour hours after the ‘event’?

There are plenty of reasons why a woman, having literally pushed another human out of her body, or having undergone a C section, would not wish to breastfeed, and it’s time the finger-wagging, judgemental, tut-tutters backed off and minded their own busi ness.

I’m sure Mrs Higgins is a lovely lady who meant well. However, perhaps the reason Ireland has one of the lowest breastfeed ing rates in the world is because there are many mothers like me, who, having done nine months of pregnancy, just wanted our bodies back to ourselves!

Bridge Clubs reopen in Roscommon

The following Bridge Clubs have reopened in Roscommon town: Ballymurray Bridge Club on Monday nights in the Abbey Hotel; Roscommon Bridge Club on Tuesday nights in Hannon’s Hotel; St. Coman’s Bridge Club on Wednesday nights in Hannon’s Hotel; and Happy ‘71 Bridge Club on Thursday nights in Hannon’s Hotel.

Players to be seated at 7.45 pm in all clubs. New members welcome. For information on Bridge classes contact 086-1607913.

Activities resume at Cloonycolgan Centre

Activities have resumed in the Cloonycolgan Community Centre following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Bingo is played every Monday night at 8.30 pm. On Tuesdays, Ethna Fahy teaches Céilí dancing for primary school children on from 2 to 4.30 pm, Ann McCormack hosts craft classes later that evening from 7 to 8.30 pm, and Kevin Kelly teaches Céilí dancing to adults from 8.30 pm to 9.30 pm.

On Thursdays, Progressive card games resume each week from 9 pm. On Fridays, Thelma Keenan conducts Keep Fit for the Active Aged from 11 am and 12 noon. We ask people of the Oran parish to support these activities.

Book launch at Fr Flanagan Centre

‘The Joys of a Second Rattle at Life’, a book of poetry by Willie Tiernan, will be launched on Saturday, October 8th at 8 pm at the Fr. Flanagan Memorial Centre in Ballymoe. All welcome.

Anyone interested in forming a Badminton Club or being part of a ‘Writer’s Circle’ at the centre is asked to email Mike at mikehballymoedevelopment@gmail.com.

The Fr. Flanagan Memorial Centre in Ballymoe will be a hive of activity in coming weeks with a number of classes and services on offer. Contact the centre for details.

Information fair for young people with disabilities

An information fair for young people with a disability and/or their families is taking place on Wednesday, October 19th from 12 pm to 3 pm.

The venue is the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon (F42 F992). Contact Deborah Brady on 087-4515961. All welcome.

Coláiste Seosaimh Class of ’72 reunion

Members of the Coláiste Seosaimh, Glenamaddy Leaving Certificate Class of 1972 are having a class reunion at 7 pm in Gleeson’s Restaurant, Roscommon on November 19th. All class members are invited to attend on the night.

Kerrane wants concrete block levy blocked!

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon-Galway, Claire Kerrane, has urged all TDs to back the party’s upcoming motion in the Dáil to scrap the Gov ernment’s concrete block levy plans.

Deputy Kerrane said: “Sinn Féin will bring forward a motion in the Dáil to scrap the Gov ernment’s concrete block levy plans, which are flawed and which risk making the housing cri sis in counties Roscommon and Galway even worse.

“The scheme is badly designed and will mean

that people living in homes with defects as well as first-time buyers will see their house prices soar. The Society of Chartered Surveyors have warned that this scheme could see an eye-wa tering €4,000 added to the price of a house. It is totally unacceptable that these homeowners and buyers should be expected to foot the bill for the concrete blocks scandal. This is hitting ordinary people’s pockets, at a time when they are already struggling with sky-high housing costs due to this Government’s failure to tackle

the growing housing crisis across the State.

“Our motion calls for the Government to hold those actually responsible for housing defects to account. It calls for a defects levy that instead focuses on the banks, the profits of big develop ers and those responsible for defects.

“I am urging all TDs to back our motion and stand with ordinary home owners and buyers to ensure that they are not subjected to the Gov ernment’s deeply flawed and unfair scheme”, concluded Deputy Kerrane.

Major roadworks on N61 to last 12 weeks

Major roadworks have commenced on a section of the N61 in the south of the county and are expected to last up to 12 weeks leading to traffic disruption in the area.

The works, which began on Monday, will be car ried on the section of the road between Barrybeg and Ganly’s roundabout in Athlone.

Roscommon County Council says a stop/go sys tem will be in place and that delays are to be expected. The local authority said the works are to facilitate the construction of the Athlone North Phase 2 Pavement Improvement Scheme and the Barrybeg Road Safety Improvement Scheme. Some of the works are ex pected to take place in the evening and during the night.

The works will be carried out by Hanly’s Contractors

on behalf of Roscommon County Council’s roads department.

Punters pictured at the last Roscommon race meeting of the year, held last week. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Beth Hoare and Isabelle Daly pictured in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday for the senior quarter-final between Roscommon Gaels and Padraig Pearses. Pic: Mick McCormack

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Will the new vacant housing tax really change the fate of the homeless?

On the day of the recent Budget, there was so much media emphasis on the energy crisis – and special measures being brought in to tackle the crippling price increases for electricity and oil –that some people totally missed out on the news that yet another tax was being introduced by the Government to try and deal with the extraordi nary number of vacant houses that are simply lying idle around the country.

Everybody knows that the housing crisis is the number one national issue after energy bills at the moment, but very few seem to have heard the news on Budget day that a new vacant homes tax is now on the way. This is a measure aimed at increasing the supply of residential proper ties around the country – and especially at a time when there are thousands of people on the waiting list for a home or living in temporary emergency accommodation.

The new regulation is relatively straightfor ward: the tax will apply to any residential proper ties which are occupied for less than 30 days in a 12-month period. But it remains to be seen how many homes and owners it will affect, as even the Department of Finance estimates the new tax will raise just a measly €3 million to €4 million a year.

Burning issue

On the week of the Budget, I was asked to chair a discussion at the ploughing championships about this burning issues of empty houses around the country. I got an opportunity not only to get some proper up to date statistics about the situation as it stands around the country, but also to talk to some of the main players with a view to trying to find out what can be done about the situation.

In the first instance, it is important to point out and indeed emphasise that we are not talking about derelict houses here in this measure, or about houses that are just abandoned for years or have been only half-built.

Instead, we are looking at good quality houses with roofs and windows on them and in perfect living condition that, for any of a variety of reasons, are just lying idle. The whole objective of this new tax is to try and create more housing stock by encouraging people to put all these properties that are sitting vacant for most of the year into good use all year around by incentivis ing these property owners to either rent or sell these homes and make them contribute in some way to addressing the housing crisis. It’s really about maximising the use of existing housing stock. The new tax will be self-assessed and administered by the Revenue Commissioners.

When I read the brief given to me about the tax, I was intrigued firstly to find out just how many empty ‘good’ houses we have around the country and how the Revenue Commissioners will know which property is vacant and which is not. Ap parently it all goes back to the census that was done earlier this year. It seems that even though they might not have noted down the owners of these homes, the census enumerator certainly

did do a count on vacant houses – paying close attention to giveaway signs such as uncollected post in the letter box and (for example) gates simply left locked for days.

Census count

On the night of Census 2022 in April, these

“

When I read the brief given to me about the tax, I was intrigued firstly to find out just how many empty ‘good’ houses we have around the country and how the Revenue Commissioners will know which property is vacant and which is not.

enumerators found that there were 166,752 vacant dwellings and 66,135 unoccupied holiday homes in the 26 counties – a staggering 35,000 of these in Dublin, where they are needed most. It’s an incredible number of empty beds when one thinks of the scale of the housing shortage in our country.

As a result of this finding, Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien – himself under renewed pres sure to do something about the national housing crisis – had already made it clear the week before the Budget that there was most certainly going to be a new and punitive measure brought in to tackle all these empty homes. When it landed on Budget day, we all learned the tax would be charged at a rate that is three times the local property tax already applying to each home. That means in effect that if you own a second home valued at €300,000 that is occupied for less than 30 days a year, you would have to pay the annual €315 local property tax on it, with an additional tax of €945 a year on top of that, or three times the annual tax you would normally be paying on this property. All of this would mean in effect that your new annual bill for that property would now go up to €1,260 a year (for both the new tax and the old one).

At our discussion on the new tax at the plough ing, some people suggested to me that it would

not be easy to work out for sure and certain whether a house was really vacant or was actually not legally available to be rented. For in stance, in the case of the death of a person when the house of the deceased would normally remain empty for months, it could well be justifiably claimed that sorting out the probate matters and the will could take well over a year or two years in some cases before the new ownership could be sorted out and the house actually rented or sold by a new owner. However, the Minister and his Department say that even though the tax is aimed at long-term vacant properties that are unoccu pied for 12 months or more, there are a number of exemptions.

Minister O’Brien is adamant that exemp tions will apply to ensure owners are not unfairly charged where the property may be vacant for a genuine reason. It seems to me that a letter from a solicitor handling a pro bate would probably suffice to explain quite a few cases. Tax will not be applied either to properties that are recently sold or listed for sale or rent, properties that are vacant due to its occupier’s illness or long-term care, or to properties that are vacant due to significant refurbishment work. Therefore it seems to me that these exemptions would also probably take several thousand more houses and own ers out of the new tax net.

Holiday homes

Another question raised at the public debate I chaired was the thorny issue of holiday homes ly ing idle around the country in places like Rosses Point, Kilkee and Ballybunion. Thousands of these buildings are unused quite a lot and it seems now that at least some of them might actually be eligible for the extra tax – depending on how often they are occupied/used.

For instance, anyone just using their holiday home for only a few weeks every summer would be in trouble (i.e. eligible to pay the tax) as it could be claimed that house could in fact be rented to a needy or homeless family for the rest of the year, but because it is more than likely that the vast majority of holiday homes are occupied for at least five or six months of the year, I can’t see how too many more of these seaside proper ties will actually fall into the tax net.

The reaction to the new measure has been a quiet one. There’s been a fairly muted response about the actual merits of the new scheme from those in the ‘housing for the homeless’ sector, with few of the main players getting too excited about the new tax. Pat Doyle, chief executive of the Peter McVerry Trust, was quoted last week as saying the new tax had “the potential to increase the availability of all forms of housing” but it’s clear that the actual regulation of the new tax and its enforcement probably holds the key to whether or not it will actually make a difference.

We will have to wait and see if it actually frees up these vacant homes or the holiday ones on our coasts – and that may well take a year or more to clearly determine.

Caring For Your Loved Ones

Your Home, Your Care, Your Choice

RHS Home Care

Roscommon Primary Care Centre, Golf Links Road, Roscommon, F42 HY97

Call : 0906 625988

Email: care@rhshomecare.ie

Choose RHS as your HSE Home Service Provider

Care and consideration

Twenty six years ago a small group of volunteers got together in Co Roscommon to see if they could provide social care services in the county. It was not envis aged at the time the project would grow to employ 321 people of this number 120 are employed in Galway, 115 in Mayo and 86 in Roscommon.

Initially, the Cooperative trained 30 people through funding received in the “NOW” New Opportunities for Women program. To date, the Cooperative cares for 720 clients across 3 counties and this is done on a not for profit basis, the only one of its kind in Ireland

The HSE Home Support Service (formerly called the Home Help Service or Home Care Package Scheme) aims to support older people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible and to support informal carers. The support you will receive depends on your individual needs.

The priority of RHS Home Care is the client, since the beginning, it has always been about quality care and not financial gain and that is what sets RHS Home Care apart from commercial home care companies.

RHS Home Care Coop erative is a Nurse Led Home Care provider. The Coopera tive is managed by Shirley Larkin Care Manager, Patrick Towey General Manager and Veronica Barrett, Director of Services.

Many of our carers are part time and combine their workday with families. RHS Home Care over the years has provided a significant economic boost to the region. Our aim is to give value for money and our services are closely monitored supervisors. There is a big emphases on the social side, carers are encouraged to chat with clients regarding what is going on within communi ties.

The Home Support Service is funded by the state and can be delivered to you free of charge by approved providers such as RHS Home Care. You do not need a medical card to apply and your income will not be assessed.

All our carers are trained to a very high standard and Garda Vetted, supported on the ground by a team of Area Supervisors.

A large number of our clients are referred by the HSE and we also offer care services to private clients. The aim of RHS Home Care is to give people the option of remaining within their own homes and communities. In many cases this can be done with the care support we provide. Economically the difference between nursing home cost and home care is quite substantial. Approxi mately 90% of our clients are referrals from the HSE, the number of care hours range between 2-14 hrs per week. However the client would need to be assessed with a higher level of care needs by the HSE to be allocated a larger number of care hours.

Our carers over the past 32 months have come through some challeng ing times, but did so with

“The mission of RHS

compassion and delivered care in the most professional man ner. As we have come through some bad times over the past 26 years. In 2001 the foot in mouth disease, in 2008 the financial crash and in 2020 the Covid-19 pandemic, but through all of those crisis RHS Home Care has delivered a quality service to our clients and will continue to do so, even though the home care market is now oversub scribed with commercial home care providers. RHS Home Care Cooperative has thrived

The Home Support Service provides you with support for everyday tasks including:

RHS Home Care

Provided Services:

Private Home Care

Getting in and out of bed

Dressing and undressing

have service users who may wish to avail of a Personal Assistant service.

Please contact: 0906625988

Email: care@rhshomecare.ie

Cleaning Service

Personal care such as showering and shaving

RHS Home Care provides a quality driven community based home care service to hundreds of families across the west, northwest and mid lands. With 26 years’ experi ence serving the community with our care service.

Medication prompting

Our expertise is in the provi sion of quality tailor made private home care services to people in their own homes.

For more informa tion, please call us on 0906625988, or Email: care@rhshomecare.ie

RHS Home Care offer a pro fessional Domestic & Com mercial Cleaning Service

Our staff are vetted, reference checked & highly trained so you can rest assured your home or business is in safe hands.

We offer a tailored made package to suit your needs, which can include:

• Vacuum & Washing floors

• Washing & Ironing

• Dusting & Polishing

Personal Assistant Service

We provide services to peo ple at home, college, hotels, special events & occasions

These services are available to anyone aged over 65 who needs support to continue living at home or to return home after a stay in hospital, or are staying in a nursing home and wish to return home. Sometimes exceptions are made for those younger than 65 who may need support.

RHS Home Care will work together with the client to create a service package best suited to the users needs.

Venues or Organisations that

• Cleaning & sanitising fridges & ovens

• Washing dishes/loading & unloading dishwashers

• General office tidying & upkeep of cleanliness in communal office areas

• Putting out rubbish – keep ing home and office clutter free.

www.rhshomecare.ie

Your Home, Your Care, Your Choice

Providing Quality, Affordable, Community Driven Home Care in the West, Midlands & Border Counties for 26 years

Should you need further information you should contact your local Primary Care Centre

5 ways to care for an older loved one

Regular visits

Social interaction is crucial at any stage in life but par ticularly so in later years. During your visit, check around the home for any issues that may need to be addressed including cleanliness and warmth. Check appliances are in working order and make sure the home is secure and contains working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Help with paperwork and finances

Older loved ones may not be comfortable talking about their finances but it’s important to discuss their needs and expenses especially if they are living on a fixed income. Make sure paperwork is up to date and offer help with business and other correspondence which may need to be completed online.

Enlist some help!

Whether it’s someone to assist with cleaning or other household chores such as gardening or even just to help with day-to-day activities, it’s always a good idea to reach

With the colder winter months fast approaching, here are five ways in which you can care for an older loved one or neighbour…

out to reliable professionals in the local area. Check refer ences and if possible go through a licenced agency. There may be free services available too.

Make home modifications

Review your loved one’s living situation and help with any modifications that may be required such as checking light fixtures, installing a raised toilet or handrails, and making sure walkways are clear from clutter.

Keep them active

Exercise is important at any age and more so in later years in order to remain healthy and reduce the risk of falls. Unfortunately, it’s not unusual for older individuals to become isolated, lonely or even suffer from depres sion particularly if they have lost a spouse. Keep them involved with family and friends and encourage them to venture out and make new connections in their communi ties. There are a number of groups such as Active Age and local Men’s and Women’s Sheds that are always on the lookout for new members.

Buy a Heart of Gold to support Roscommon’s 6,615 Family Carers

Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting the 500,000+ family carers across Ireland, is seeking the support of people in Ro scommon this Friday (October 7th) as it holds its national fundraising and awareness day, Heart of Gold. Staff, volunteers and family carers will be out in force selling €2 Heart of Gold pins to raise vital funds for those caring for loved ones at home such as children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with pal liative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental health challenges or addiction.

Funds raised will help Family Carers Ireland continue to provide essential supports and services to family carers ranging from one-toone wellbeing reviews, counselling, advocacy and emergency care planning to peer support groups and training courses. In particularly dif ficult cases, it will help to put food on tables and oil in heating tanks.

The supports provided by the charity have never been so important with a recent survey of almost 2,000 family carers finding that over two-thirds experience financial distress, almost one quarter are cutting back on essentials to make ends meet and nearly nine in ten feel the value of what they do is not recognised.

Among the thousands of family carers support ed by Family Carers Ireland since the start of the pandemic is Barbara who cares for her adult

son John who has autism and an intellectual disability. Following months of cocooning and a huge deterioration in John’s sleep, both were struggling mentally and physically. Thanks to funds generously donated by the public, Family Carers Ireland was able to provide one week of residential respite for John as well as 10 weeks of free counselling for Barbara to help with her emotional wellbeing.

“You gave John and I a break when frankly, we were both at breaking point. I can never thank you enough,” said Barbara.

Bernie Dowling, Community Support Manag er for Roscommon, said: “Amid unprecedented

levels of stress caused by the pandemic and a worsening cost of living crisis, more families than ever before are reaching out to us for help.

“I would urge the local community to rally behind our fundraiser and purchase a Heart of Gold pin in solidarity with local family carers who all deserve our support and recognition.

“As a charity, we firmly believe that no one should have to care alone but we need your help to ensure that we can continue to provide a vital lifeline to those who need it most”.

More information about Family Carers Ire land and the fundraising efforts can be found on their website www.familycarers.ie.

Harkin highlights gaps in Budget when it comes to Carer’s Allowance

Independent TD Marian Harkin said it was a pity the Govern ment’s approach to providing a safety net for the most vulner able in Budget 2023 did not ex tend to addressing some “glar ing gaps” in the system.

“For instance, the Carer’s Al lowance continues to be means tested, the process is appropri ately nicknamed the ‘mean’ test. This allowance is a support to family carers, many of whom provide 24/7 care for loved ones. In caring for their loved ones, they are doing a great service, not only for those they are caring for, but are also doing the state a real service, saving it in excess of €20 billion per an num,” Ms Harkin said.

She described the €12 increase in Carer’s Allowance as minis cule.

“It is not nearly enough to help family carers with the real cost of caring. The Indecon Report

commissioned by the Govern ment tells us that per household, the cost of caring can add a minimum of €200 per week to household bills.

“I was really disappointed to see that the Carers’ Allowance is still not a qualifying payment for fuel allowance,” the Inde pendent TD continued.

“The Minister for Social Pro tection needs to think again about this. Family carers are at home 24/7 using more heat, light and electricity than the av erage family. How are they sup posed to pay the bills landing in their letterboxes over the next few days, weeks and months?

In my opinion family carers should automatically receive the fuel allowance”.

Deputy Harkin said she was also shocked to hear that only one of the €200 energy credits would be paid prior to Christ mas, adding that people would struggle to pay their bills this year.

She called on the Government to ensure that at least two of the payments, a total of €400, are paid to households before Christmas.

“Carers need it, working peo ple need it, those on fixed and low incomes need it,” she said.

How is free contraception for 16-year-olds an argument for lowering the age of consent?

Let’s talk about ...

AGE

student’s

Alannah Ita Healy

Recently, the provision of free contraception for women and people with a uterus aged 17 to 25 came into effect.

However, per last week’s Budget announcements, this age range is set to be extended to include those aged between 16 and 30.

In the wake of this an nouncement, conversation was sparked about whether the age of consent should be changed, in order to reflect the fact that we are providing contraceptives to 16-yearolds, even though the age of consent remains at 17.

According to Dr Padraig MacNeela in a recent Irish Examiner article, there is a “contradiction there inherent ly” in the fact that contracep tion is set to be provided at an earlier age than the age of consent.

However, I’m not entirely convinced that there is such a contradiction. While I don’t doubt the statistics which tell us a significant proportion of teenagers below the age of consent are sexual active (per the 2018 HBSC national survey, a quarter of 15 to 17-year-olds are), which in turn no doubt fed into the

extending of free contracep tion to 16-year-olds, I think it’s flawed to reason that this should inherently mean we ought to consider lowering the age of consent.

Primarily, it’s important to note that contraception isn’t always an issue that goes hand-in-hand with sex. In terms of female health, the provision of free contracep tion is landmark outside of what it offers in terms of safe sex and pregnancy preven tion. Despite it being their primary use, the benefits of taking birth control pills extend beyond preventing pregnancy. They can be used to help regulate periods, ease cramps, and help with conditions such as anemia and endometriosis – which affects approximately 10% of females in Ireland but is often not given enough attention. In this regard, the provision of free contraception to 16-yearolds has nothing to do with their sexual activity.

Yes, there are teenagers hav ing sex before the age of 17 and this is why it’s important to provide them with free con traception, but the conversa tions held recently suggesting

that this is overwhelming reason to lower the age of the consent to have the legal side of things ‘match up’ with the health side feel unjusti fied. After all, age of consent legislation is, above all else, a child protection measure. Suggesting the age of consent be lowered solely in reflection of consensual sexual activity between teenagers presumes we do not have legislation in place which recognises the re ality of underage, consensual, peer relationships – which we do with the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017’s ‘proximity of age’ defence. As such, my worry is that more than anything else, a blanket lowering of the age of consent to 16 could put teenagers in

Mothers invited to celebrate National Breastfeeding Week

Women in Roscommon who are breastfeed ing or thinking of breastfeeding are invited to an event to celebrate National Breastfeeding Week. This event, hosted by HSE Communi ty Healthcare West, takes place at The Quad, Roscommon (F42CH70) on Friday, October 7th, at 11 am. You will have an opportunity to meet a breastfeeding expert, and learn a lit tle more about breastfeeding and the supports for breastfeeding in Co. Roscommon.

This event is for both expectant parents, and also mothers and their babies. Becoming a mother is a major transition in a woman’s life and can be challenging. In motherhood, there is much to learn, and many new skills to be developed – breastfeeding is one of these skills.

A shared community of women who are choosing to breastfeed their infants come to gether throughout the county each week. If you would like to join a breastfeeding sup port group in Roscommon please find below the details below.

Roscommon Town Breastfeeding Support Group meet the second and fourth Thursday of each month in The Quad Youth Centre, Circular Road, Roscommon. If interested, contact Ciara on 087 9730319.

Ballaghaderreen Breastfeeding Support Group meet the first and third Thursday of each month in the new Family Resource Centre. If interested, contact Ciara on 087 3458234.

Boyle Breastfeeding Support Group meet the last Friday of each month in the Boyle Family Resource Centre. If interested, con tact 071 9663000.

Longford/Roscommon Breastfeeding Sup port Group meet every second Wednesday and fourth Sunday of the month. If interested, contact Ciara on 087 9730319.

Roscommon Friends of Breastfeeding meet every third Saturday of each month in Sen sory Me, Roscommon Town. If interested, contact Clare on 087 3306541.

Athlone Cuidiu Breastfeeding Support Group meet online. Check Facebook page for zoom details. If interested, contact Maria on 085 124931.

Finally, Athlone Public Health Nurse-led Support Group meet the first, third and fifth Thursday of each month in Clonbrusk Pri mary Care Centre. If interested, contact 0861728016.

For any further enquiries contact Ciara Bo han on 087 3458234.

with being oversexualised, and being overexposed to explicit content online, all while our education system hurriedly tries to catch up to provide the relevant information in tandem to ensure their safety. As it stands, many young people are overwhelmingly dissatis fied with the sex education that they receive in school, in particular around relationships and consent. I don’t know how we could reconcile this lack of knowledge around relationship dynamics and the complexities of consent with lowering the age of consent, as it could open up 16-yearolds to exploitative situations before they even finish their sex education.

exploitative situations with older adults.

In a discussion on the subject recently, Newstalk presenter Ciara Kelly commented that she felt that “we are failing kids”, that “despite our new liberal, modern clothes here in Ireland, (we) are semi-prudish and a bit icky about sex in general and sex particularly for young people”. And while I agree that we still have a way to go when it comes to our attitudes and conversations around sex, I don’t know if retaining the age of consent at 17 is a consequence of prudishness.

I believe our prudishness has indeed stunted our attitudes around sex, sexual health, and sex education. We still have

a stretch to go, though it is worth appreciating the work that has been done in more recent years to destigmatise sex and educate people about safe practices, consent, etc. It has been this progressive shift that has laid the groundwork for changing attitudes, and re cent developments such as the provision of free contraception and a new RSE curriculum.

I am for sexual liberation and for the realities of teenagers sex lives to be responded to accordingly, for their issues and needs not to be ignored. I think it’s integral. However, I fear lowering of the age of consent to 16 would not serve to help teenagers – in fact I fear it would do the opposite. Teenagers already put up

Lowering the age of consent feels like a rash reaction to seeing the disparity in con traception provision and age of consent. Not only does it ignore the benefits of contra ception outside of pregnancy prevention, the conversation seems to disregard how much exploitation this could open teenagers up to when we know they aren’t getting adequate information on healthy sexual relationships. I believe our pri ority should be continuing to protect teenagers while listen ing to their needs, not lowering the consent age. Let teenagers have access to supports they may require (which they could need because of health, sexual abuse, peer activity, etc.) without opening them up to potentially exploitative situ ations for the sake of matching up the age of consent and age for free contraception.

Helen’s Journey

You were one in a million, the love of my life I fondly remember the day you became my wife 38 years of marriage we did enjoy Including our family; three girls and a boy All happily married and grandchildren too

Hospice Coffee Morning in memory of Helen

Well-known Roscommon town woman, Helen O’Keeffe, passed away on July 21st of this year following an illness. This Friday (October 7th), in memory of Helen on her birthday, her family and friends are organis ing a Coffee/Tea Morning from 9 am to 1 pm at Helen’s house on the Racecourse Road in Roscommon (F42 PN88) in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice. All support would be greatly appreciated. Helen’s husband Alan penned the following poem in memory of his beloved wife ahead of the coffee morning.

Every one of them is a credit to you Now all settled, it was time me and you Made some plans for a holiday or two But unfortunately for us the cancer returned And our plans for the future completely spurned Still optimistic as you beat it before You were ready to fight and beat it once more But the latest scan brought the worst possible news The cancer had spread now it was trouble times two You fought to the end, not a tear in your eye Until that fateful morning on the 21st of July 12.21 showed on the clock on the wall Your family around you when Jesus did call Your hand clasped in mine, I couldn’t let go But his angels came calling and it was time to go He decided it was time for you to take your rest

We know by now he only takes the best Stay with me every moment we’re apart Living on in the memories pumping through my heart I miss your kiss, your hug, and your smile

But I must carry on now at least for a while So rest now my love and always remember

The love in my heart will be yours forever

Love, Alan

TAKE A BREAK

It’s been a GOOD week for…

All associated with Glenamaddy District Ploughing & Agricultural Show, with the popu lar event making a successful return on Sunday following a two-year absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Organisers of the famous Ballinasloe Horse Fair, which was a big success at the weekend

Free-scoring superstar Erling Haaland, who became the first Premier League player to score hat-tricks in three consecutive homes games, this latest one coming in Manchester City’s 6-3 win over Manchester United (Phil Foden also scored a hat-trick)

Four food producers from County Roscom mon, as it was confirmed that they were amongstthe winners in the Blas na hÉireann Irish food awards, held in Dingle, Co. Kerry on Sunday (see report in this edition)

Everyone associated with Shinrone village in County Offaly, after their GAA club won its first ever senior hurling title

It’s been a BAD week for…

Defending Roscommon and Connacht senior football club champions Padraig Pearses, who were knocked out of the county championship at the quarter-final stage, defeated by Roscommon Gaels on a 1-11 to 1-6 scoreline

Renowned Dublin footballer Paul Mannion, who picked up an ankle injury when playing with his club, Kilmacud Crokes, leading to speculation that he could be sidelined for three months

New UK Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng, who bowed to public (and political) pressure and an nounced an embarrassing U-turn on plans to cut income tax rates for people earning more than £150,000 a year

Manchester United, after they conceded six goals to rivals Manchester City in a high-scoring derby game on Sunday

Local Londis retailer celebrates sponsorship of Ireland’s Fittest Family

Timothy’s Londis in Abbey town, Roscommon recently joined Londis retailers across the country in celebrating thereturn of RTÉ’s hit family pro gramme, Ireland’s Fittest Fam ily, as the series returns to Irish screens.

Proprietors Vincent and An nie Timothy joined coaches Davy Fitzgerald, Anna Geary and Nina Carberry at a special business and social function in the Armada Hotel, Spanish Point, Co. Clare to mark the continued sponsorship of the television programme by Lon dis retailers nationwide.

Londis Abbeytown (Roscommon) proprietors

Vincent and Annie Timothy pictured with coaches Davy Fitzgerald, Anna Geary and Nina Carberry at the Armada Hotel, Spanish Point as Londis celebrated the return of RTÉ’s hit family programme ‘Ireland’s Fittest Family’ to Irish TV screens.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

updates, check our social channels

Famous birthdays ... this week

Sharon Osbourne (British-American television personality and music manager, celebrates 70th birthday on Sunday)

Bruno Mars (American musician, will be 37 on Saturday)

Matt Damon (American actor, turns 52 on Saturday)

Simon Cowell (English television personality and record executive, turns 63 on Friday)

“ The things people say…

“We must not allow other people’s limited perceptions to define us”

Virginia Satir

Molly Lyons, Connie Kelly and Ciara Rabbitte pictured at the Glenamaddy Agricultural Show last Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Still smiling: Padraig Pearses fans pictured in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday for the senior quarter-final against Roscommon Gaels. Pic: Mick McCormack

Supporters pictured in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday for the senior quarter-final between Roscommon Gaels and Padraig Pearses. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon Gaels fans pictured in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday for the senior quarter-final against Padraig Pearses. Pic: Mick McCormack

Culture & Arts

‘An Ant Called Amy’ to open Lollipops Festival

Roscommon Arts Centre’s Lollipops Festival will open next Tuesday with a heartfelt play called ‘An Ant Called Amy’, which has been written by wellknown Roscommon ac tress, Julie Sharkey, who also stars in the show.

This week, the Ballaghad erreen native spoke to the Roscommon People from the Dublin Theatre Festival where she featured in ‘No Magic Pill’ by Christian O’Reilly.

Julie says staging her first show at Roscommon Arts Centre is “a joy” and she is looking forward to a na tional tour which takes in nine venues.

“The show, which is aimed at ages 5 to 8, was produced by the arts centre and it’s something I developed with them when I was the artist in residence in 2017 and 2018,” she said.

“We had planned to put it out on the road but then Covid-19 hit. While this was disappointing, it did give us the opportunity to

film the play and make it available for various festi vals online. Emma Brennan from Roscommon town did an incredible job on the filming”.

An Ant Called Amy tells the story of Amy the ant, her brother Andy, and a misunderstood brown spi der.

“Amy the ant works very hard and enjoys the adula tion of winning ‘employee of the month’ awards.

“At the top of the play, however, we get the feeling that someone is missing and that someone is her brother Andy. Amy gets locked out of the anthill one night and has to spend the night in the forest where she meets the feared brown spider. It turns out the brown spider is actually okay and helps Amy to understand why she works so hard,” Julie says.

“The play deals with grief and how we comprehend it. The play is for ages five and up so it’s presented in a very gentle way and delves into how younger audiences might begin to comprehend loss”.

With help from the brown spider, Amy the ant learns to find true happiness by embracing her brother’s memory in the everyday.

“It really is a lovely play and it’s directed by Raymond Keane with a delicate and heartfelt score by Irene Buckley. Olan Wrynn designs the set which depicts the world of the anthill and the forest so beautifully,” Julie added.

“We have a lovely team of really good people on the road and it was also wonderful to have the sup

port of Nathalie Wolde who also helped to pro duce this play”.

Praising the support of Roscommon Arts Centre in producing the play, Julie added: “My relationship with Roscommon Arts Centre has unlocked so much for me. I’m so ex cited to be back there in November and December as part of an artist in resi dency and looking forward to my second play, which is a full-length production called ‘Chicken Wings in Peace’.

“I’m very grateful to eve ryone at Roscommon Arts Centre and to Roscom mon Arts Officer, Rhona McGrath, who provide unreal support for creative living in the county”.

Aimed at ages 5-8, ‘An Ant Called Amy’ opens Roscommon Arts Cen tre’s Lollipops Festival on Tuesday next (11th) with shows at 10 am and 12 pm. To find out more or to book tickets, check out www.roscommonartscen tre.ie or contact the box of fice on 090-6625824.

Local libraries to feature ‘Picture This’

A new reading guide from Children’s Books Ireland, celebrating picture books and illustration, is now available in every branch library in County Roscom mon.

‘Picture This’ features over 230 recommended reads for children and young people aged 0 to 18, which have been reviewed by experts in children’s literature. The guide aims to break down barriers to children’s reading, making books of all kinds accessible to chil dren across Roscommon, including those who may have reading difficulties or whose first language may not be English or Irish.

Picture This focuses on books with strong visual nar ratives, including wordless or silent books, graphic novels and comics, picture books for all ages and graphic diary-style texts. The guide aims to highlight books, series and texts to encourage reluctant readers or those with language barriers to engage with read ing.

Commenting on the launch of Picture This, Elaina Ryan, CEO of Children’s Books Ireland, said: “Pic tures are important. They are rich and expressive and joyful and complex. As a child, they’re our first dip into the world of storytelling but they’re not some thing to be left behind once a child is comfortable reading text. Pictures on the page aren’t just a stepping stone, they’re a journey in themselves.

“Presenting an alternative route to the linear progres sion from picture books to chapter books, we want Picture This to give children and young people in Ro scommon just a little bit of space to discover a love of reading at their own pace”.

‘Picture This’ is now available for free in every li brary authority in Ireland and in sixty participating bookshops island-wide. The guide is also free to download from the Children’s Books Ireland website: childrensbooksireland.ie.

Luan Gallery opens two new exhibitions

Luan Gallery in Athlone recently opened two new exhibitions to the public: a solo exhibition called ‘Nightscapes’ by ItalianSwiss artist Ugo Ricciardi, and a group exhibition called ‘Midden’, which includes works from Irish artists Mary Martin, Niamh McGuinne and Sa rah Edmondson. The of ficial opening, which took place on Saturday, October 2nd, featured guest speak ers Ilaria Sponda and Neva Elliott.

(Above)

Pictured is artist Mary Martin, whose work is currently on display at the Luan Gallery in Athlone as part of the ‘Midden’ exhibit.

(Left)

Pictured is artist Niamh McGuinne, whose work is currently on display at the Luan Gallery in Athlone as part of the ‘Midden’ exhibit.

‘Nightscapes’ presents se lected photographic, largescale prints, and video works from Ricciardi’s on going Nightscapes project, which focuses on the hu man connection with na ture and its ancestral past. The project takes the artist around the world, captur ing breathtaking night scapes of landmarks and ancient sites illuminated by the moon and his digital lighting interventions.

‘Midden’ comprises a captivating series of new and existing works in painting, print, sculpture, installation, and video projection by Edmondson, Martin, and McGuinne, working collaboratively as the Midden Collec tive. Midden are akin to

mankind’s inscriptions in nature; they provide a tan gible archive of a genera tion’s (human or creature) lifestyle, behaviour, and diet. Coming from the dif ferent approaches of their respective practices, the artists use middens as a basis to interpret evidence

and create new narratives about the past and future.

The exhibitions will be on display in Luan Gal lery until November 20th from 11 am to 5 pm from Tuesday to Saturday, and from 12 am to 5 pm on Sunday. Admission is free.

< DAN DOONER

Roscommon Arts Centre’s Lollipops Festival will open next Tuesday with a heartfelt play called ‘An Ant Called Amy’, which has been written by wellknown Roscommon actress, Julie Sharkey, who also stars in the show.

Guest speaker Neva Elliot, artist Ugo Ricciardi, guest speaker Ilaria Sponda and Luan Gallery Manager Carmel Duffy pictured on Saturday at the official opening of the ‘Nightscapes’ and ‘Midden’ exhibits in Luan Gallery in Athlone.

GOING

Ivan Connaughton, Anne Conlon and Cllr. Laurence Fallon pictured at Roscommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp social enterprise at the Riverside Centre in Athleague last Friday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Lorraine Campbell, Lauren Colmey and Tracy McCarthy pictured at Roscommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp social enterprise at the Riverside Centre in Athleague last Friday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Margaret Browning, CycleUp Design and Production, and Nora Fahy, Manager, RWN pictured at Roscommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp social enterprise at the Riverside Centre in Athleague last Friday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Lynda Clayton and Rebecca Lyons pictured at Roscommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp social enterprise at the Riverside Centre in Athleague last Friday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Bernard Keane, Anne Conlon and Denis Naughten, TD pictured at Roscommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp social enterprise at the Riverside Centre in Athleague last Friday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Mairead Mannion, Gertie Finan, Mary Frances Loftus, Phyllis Jordan and Kathleen Dowd pictured at Roscommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp social enterprise at the Riverside Centre in Athleague last Friday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Julie Ann Finan, Amanda Scanlon and Ann Conneally of Roscommon County Council pictured at Roscommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp social enterprise at the Riverside Centre in Athleague last Friday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Elphin Mart

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7TH

MONDAY, OCTOBER 10TH

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12TH

Roscommon winners in Blas na hÉireann Irish food awards

Four food producers from County Roscommon were amongst the winners inthe Blas na hÉireann Irish food awards which were held in Dingle, Co. Kerry on Sunday.

The bronze, silver and gold winners from Co. Roscommon across a range of different catego ries were Ballaghaderreen Bacon Factory Ltd, Do Me A Flavour, Oliver Carty, Oliver Carty & Family and the Waldron Family, who were also awarded ‘Best in County’.

The Blas na hÉireann Irish food awards are the largest food awards on the island and this year’s finalists and winners got to experience the Blas Vil lage, located in the heart of Dingle, for the first time. This pop-up village was built for producers across the country to come together and celebrate the very best of Irish food and drink for Blas’s first in-person event in three years. Finalists and win

ners had the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers.

Blas na hÉireann saw a huge increase in entries this year, with almost 3000 products and many new producers entering the awards for the first time. Products from every county in Ireland were en tered to win bronze, silver or gold awards in over 150 food and drink categories, as well as key awards like Supreme Champion and Best Artisan Pro ducer, with four producers winning from County Roscommon.

“Making it as a finalist is a huge achievement and one to be very proud of,” says Artie Clifford, Chairperson and founderof Blas na hÉireann. “The competition ramps up year on year, meaning those producers who are short listed as finalists really are the crème de la crème of Irish food and drink”.

James McLoughin, Gerald Cunniffe and Peter Cunniffe from the Ballaghaderreen Bacon Factory Ltd. pictured with John Sheehy, Blas na hÉireann/Irish Food Awards and Debra Henderson, Henderson Food Machinery, official sponsor at the Blas na hÉireann/Irish Food Awards in Dingle last Sunday. Pic: Don MacMonagle

(Left)

Amy Curley and Daragh Waldron from Waldron Family Meats, County Roscommon pictured with their gold award at the Blas na hÉireann/Irish Food Awards alongside Artie Clifford, Chairperson, Blas na hÉireann/Irish Food Awards and David Henderson, Henderson Food Machinery.

Sarah Donnelly, collecting award for Oliver Carty & Family with Artie Clifford, Chairperson, Blas na hÉireann/Irish Food Awards and David Henderson, Henderson Food Machinery at the Blas na hÉireann/Irish Food Awards in Dingle last Sunday. Pic: Don MacMonagle

(Above)

Sarah Donnelly from Do Me A Flavour in Monksland, Athlone, pictured with her award at the Blas na hÉireann/Irish Food Awards in Dingle last Sunday alongside Artie Clifford, Chairperson, Blas na hÉireann/Irish Food Awards and Evan Fox, IMPACT Labelling, official sponsor. Pic: Don MacMonagle

Ifac reminds Roscommon farmers about tax implications of ‘live-in roles’

Agribusiness specialist, ifac, is this week reminding Roscommon farmers of the tax implications of providing free or subsidised accommodation to their farm employees.

In the first quarter of 2022, the national average monthly rents in Ireland were more than €1,500. Across the country, high rents along with a shortage of rental properties are making it increas ingly difficult for employees to find accommodation.

Concerning live-in roles, Declan McEvoy, Head of Tax at ifac, said: “High rents and a housing shortage mean that farmers who

can provide free or subsidised ac commodation enjoy an advantage in the current market when it comes to attracting and retaining agricultural employees.

“To find out more about how your business could benefit con tact your local ifac office or visit ifac.ie”.

Ifac has said it’s important to understand benefit in kind impli cations when considering offering free or subsidised accommodation.

Under Revenue rules, BIK on employee accommodation is calculated based on the annual market value of the rent plus any related expenses paid by the

employer (such as light and heat). While the employee is liable for PAYE, PRSI and USC on the benefit received, access to accom modation is very attractive in the current market and can compen sate for lower wages in certain roles.

The firm says it’s also important to be aware that for certain roles, accommodation provided by an employer may be exempt from BIK.

Where an employee is required to live in accommodation on their employer’s premises to perform their duties, the provision of free accommodation may be exempt

from BIK. Revenue guidance states that this requirement is usually met where: The employee is required to be on call outside normal hours; The employee is actually frequently called out; or the employer provided the accom modation so that the employee could access work quickly.

Tax-free benefits that can be provided to employees include: Bicycles and safety equipment; Certain course and exam fees; Employer pension contributions to Revenue-approved schemes; Small benefits worth €500 or less that are not in cash form and are given to the employee once a year.

Macra launches new brand at the ploughing

Macra is now the new name for Macra na Feirme after the rebranding of the organisa tion was officially launched by MEP Maria Walsh at the National Ploughing Champion ships in Ratheniska, Co. Laois recently.

Commenting on the rebranding, Macra President John Keane said: “The new Macra brand is a blend of the past mixed with the optimism of the future. Our roots, which stem back over 77 years to our founder Stephen

Cullinane, are grounded in education, form ing connections and challenging the status quo. “As we look forward to the future these values are at our core, coupled with new op portunities in connecting young people and creating an organisation that is a natural home for all rural youth. I am immensely proud of all the Macra team and members who work so diligently to progress Macra”.

Caroline O’Keeffe, Macra National Chairperson, John Keane, Macra President, and Maria Walsh, MEP, launching the rebrand of Macra at the National Ploughing Championships recently.

Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival were Rachel Moore, Naomi Faulkner and Ellinna Kelly. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival recently were John Stafford and Rebella Giles with Babycham and Bucks Fizz. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival recently were Katie Heneghan and Mary Grehan and Buster. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival recently were Francis Geraghty, David and Tadhg Harney and Cllr. Laurence Fallon. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival recently were Paddy, Ava and Darragh Smyth. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival recently were Michael Donnellan, Pat Burke and John Burke. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival recently were Paddy Towey and Patrick Kenny. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival recently was Bellarose Fenton with Glen Storm. Photo: Mick McCormack Pictured at Ballyforan Fair & Festival recently were Fiadh, Alva, Katja and Grellan O’Conghaile. Photo: Mick McCormack

BUDGET 2023: Farming view

Minister ‘ignoring’ beef and suckler sector

IFA National Livestock Chair Brendan Golden said suckler and beef farmers are “not fooled” by the Minister for Agricul ture Charlie McConalogue’s re-stating of what is already set out in the CAP Stra tegic plans for the sector in his Budget announcements.

Brendan Golden said the additional €28 million announced merely brings sup ports for suckler farmers in line with what we are currently receiving.

“IFA have clearly and consistently called for direct supports for suckler cows to be built to €300 a cow and €100 rearing and finishing payment for beef farmers,” Mr. Golden said.

“The minister has failed to provide these

supports and has also failed to recognise the challenges facing winter finishers over the coming months by not providing a targeted payment based on production levels to offset input costs on these farms at our most expensive time in the produc tion cycle”.

Brendan Golden said seeking credit for an advance payment of the fodder sub sidy scheme will not “wash” with beef finishers and suckler farmers.

The IFA National Livestock Chair said the Minister for Agriculture must come forward with his proposals for suckler and beef farmers that will offset the production costs faced over the coming months.

‘Budget another disappointment for forgotten farmers’ – Macra

Budget 2023 has failed to correct the failings of previous Governments in addressing the issue of the ‘forgotten farmers’, according to Macra Presi dent, John Keane.

Mr. Keane described said the ‘forgotten farmers’ are a combination of those who lost out following the removal of young farmer supports such as Instal lation Aid due to cuts in public expenditure by the Government following the last recession.

“It is now more than 14 years since some of these farmers started out in their

farming careers, and it is simply not good enough that the mistakes around the removal of supports have not been rectified,” he said.

“Macra has continually lobbied on behalf of these forgotten farmers to seek the support which they fairly deserve”.

The Macra President added that the Programme for Government states in ‘black and white’ commit ments to resolve the issue of support for forgotten farmers under CAP.

“When the support was not detailed under the

newly-submitted CAP

Strategic Plan the Depart ment of Agriculture citied reasons around qualify ing criteria and meeting objectives as barriers but assured Macra that this cohort of farmers were not forgotten,” he said.

“These forgotten farmers can wait no longer with rising input and energy costs and many invest ments having being put on hold with the commit ments by the Minister, the time to deliver meaningful supports for these farmers is now,” concluded Mr. Keane.

Martin

Macra President, John Keane.

Sheep farmers ‘shocked’ by lack of Budget backing

IFA Sheep Chairperson Kevin Comiskey said sheep farmers are shocked at the failure of Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue to provide any additional support for the sector in the Budget. He said sheep farming is one of the most vulnerable sectors in agriculture and doesn’t have the financial capacity to absorb the level of input cost increases this year and which will be with us for the foreseeable future.

“The €20 million Sheep Improvement Scheme funding in itself is inadequate. Failing to add to it in the Budget an nouncement has left sheep farmers a long way short of the €30/ewe required,” he said.

“The Minister is acutely aware of the challenges facing the sector. Issues such as inputs costs; the collapse in the wool market; and the concerns for the store

lamb trade have been brought directly to him throughout the year. He has chosen not to address these by failing to provide any direct support for sheep farmers,” he said.

IFA called for supports for farmers finishing lambs over the winter months since earlier this year, including support ing catch crops which would be suitable for finishing lambs. He said the need to offset the costs associated with shearing to address the loss of farm gate value in wool have long since been put to the Minister.

The IFA Sheep Chair said the Minister cannot turn his back on sheep farmers and must, as a matter of urgency, provide di rect supports for farmers finishing lambs over the coming months to underpin the store trade, which is a key outlet for hill farmers.

IFA Sheep Chairperson Kevin Comiskey

Tommy

BOOM SPRAYER

IFA National Livestock Chair Brendan Golden

Local companies feature at National Ploughing

Roscommon company, Mega fab Ltd., manufacturers of the Tipsy Bin, supported by Local Enterprise Office Roscom mon, were one of over 30 Local Enterprise Office clients from across the country who exhibited in the Local Enterprise Village at this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Laois recently as Europe’s largest event returned for the first time since 2019. Megafab is an innovative farm and garden product design and

manufacturing company based in Castlerea with a focus on building great products who had great suc cess at the Ploughing Champion ships with the Tipsy Bin.

This lightweight and hygienic feed bin is easier to clean and has a built-in flat area for the feed to be collected on, reducing the danger of old feed being left in the bin, which could contaminate fresh feed. When the feed level drops to a level that is harder to reach, the bin can be safely and

easily tipped to allow easy access to the bottom of the bin.

A host of well-known faces dropped into the Local Enter prise Village across the three days including An Tanaiste, Leo Varadkar, US Ambassador to Ireland, Claire Cronin, Minister Heather Humphreys, Minister of State Damien English, Minister of State Pippa Hackett, Newstalk’s former Dragon, Bobby Kerr and RTE’s Anne Cassin and of course the Managing Director of the

National Ploughing Association, Anna May McHugh.

Other Local Enterprise Office Roscommon clients showcasing their businesses at the National Ploughing Championships in cluded Reap Interactive from Boyle who launched their Bovine Plus platform at the Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena, Nuno Projects from Ballaghaderreen, John F Hanley Fencing Ltd., Ballydooley, and Biofriendly Ltd., Loughglynn.

Teagasc Grass10 team farm walk tonight (Thursday)

< MICHAEL CONROY, BEEF ADVISOR, TEAGASC ROSCOMMON

Join the Teagasc Grass10 team today (Thursday, Oc tober 6th) on the farm of Shane Moore, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (F42 NX75) at 6.30 pm for a farm walk.

Shane is a participant in the Teagasc Signpost Programme and last year was a finalist in the Drystock category of the Grassland Farmer of the Year competition.

Shane farms near Ath league, Co. Roscommon with his partner Kelly and their two children where they run a lowland sheep

enterprise alongside a weanling to store cattle system. The farm is frag mented with the owned land split into two main blocks approximately 5km apart, with an additional block of 4ha rented. The land is made up of mainly good, free-draining soil and includes an area of marginal land usually only grazed by the cattle.

Ewes lamb from March 1st onwards to match grass supply on the farm and replacement ewes lambs, bred from within the flock, are mated as yearlings. Shane’s aim is to have a stocking rate of 12 ewes/Ha weaning >1.6 lambs per ewe joined from

the mature ewes.

To achieve this, Shane has made several changes to the farm in recent years in all areas including grassland management. Soil fertility, grazing infrastructure, and graz ing management have all changed and these changes have allowed Shane to increase stocking rate sustainably. These changes and the perfor mance achieved on the farm will be discussed on the night.

Shane and his family are looking forward to seeing you all there on the even ing. For more information, email; RoscommonLong fordAdvisory@teagasc.ie.

On Thursday last we held our Annual Show and Sale of Continental heifers and Belgian Blue weanlings. A good yard of stock was presented for sale, with the prize-winning heifers making up to €2,420, while the Belgian Blue weanlings made up to €1,900. Trade and prices have held well this week despite the unease of sterling with a good attendance of buyers present resulting in a good clearance. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,230 to €2,540, springers made from €850 to €1,580, and runner lots made from €350 to €820 for Continental lots.

250 animals presented for sale at our Annual Show and Sale of Continental bullocks on Monday, September 26th with prize winners fetching up to €2,500 while the quality stores on offer made up to €3.52 per kilo with a good clearance taking place.

Sales continue today (Thursday, 6th) with our Annual Show and Sale of AA heifers in conjunction with our usual sale. All sales commence at 11 am.

Sample prices for heifers: Ch 425kgs €1290, Lim 425kgs €1270, AA 405kgs €1160, Ch 460kgs €1400, Lim 485kgs €1380, Lim 540kgs €2420, BB 650kgs €2100, Ch 670kgs €1980, Ch 650kgs €1920, Ch 650kgs €1900, Lim 625kgs €1900.

Dry cows: BBx 850kgs €2180, Lim 760kgs €2140, Lim 735kgs €2080, Lim 775kgs €1990, BBx 795kgs €1980, AA

John,

and

McGreal pictured at the recent Ballinasloe Horse & Agricultural Show. Pic: Mick McCormack

Beef prices must reflect cost of production – IFA

Chair Brendan Golden said attempts by factories to reduce quotes is unac ceptable and beef farmers do not have the capacity to absorb production cost increases.

The IFA National Livestock Chair said the Prime Export Benchmark Price for the latest week shows a price differential of 22c/kg, and with beef price reflecting the returns available from export markets for beef, there is clearly capacity in the market place to return higher prices and close this gap.

He noted tight supplies and strong global demand for beef is underpinning the trade.

“Winter finishers are in the process of making key decisions for the coming months, factories must reflect the realities of the current market in stronger prices now and offer winter finishers minimum price guarantees for their

cattle for this winter and next spring,” Mr. Golden said.

“Teagasc have identified the break-even price for winter finishing will need to be €5.85/kg before any margin is factored in”.

Mr. Golden added that meat factories and

There was a large entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s general sale with a steady trade for all classes. Bullocks averaged from €2.87 per kilo up to €4.03 per kilo, heifers fetched from an average of €2.28 per kilo up to €2.76 per kilo. Dry cows made an average of €1.94 per kilo up to €2.54 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

This Friday (7th) sees a special sale of heifers as well as bullocks and dry cows.

There was a very good entry of top-quality weanlings on offer at our sale held on Tuesday evening last with a steady trade for both bulls and heifers.

Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €2.87 per kilo up to €4.25 per kilo, while heifer weanlings made from an average of €2.76 per kilo up to €3.41. We also had a small entry of in-calf heifers with the top price here of

multinational retailers are acutely aware of this and must provide surety for farmers in the form of minimum price guarantees to maintain our hard-earned consist ent year-round supply of cattle.

He also highlighted that

€2,600 of a Limousine heifer due the end of October. There was a good attendance of customers with online buyers also active.

There is a special show and sale of weanlings on Tuesday, October 11th at 4 pm. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm today (Thursday, October 6th).

We had a similar number of sheep on offer at this week’s sale of lambs and cast ewes. Prices for finished lambs peaked at €144 for 57.3kgs. Store lambs fetched up to €118. Ewe lambs made up to €138 for 53.7kgs. The tops for stag ewes fetched €145.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Next sale of lambs and cast ewes is Wednesday, October 12th at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www. livestock-live.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: Char X 850kgs €1950, Char X 785kgs

Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has a critical role to play in supporting suckler and beef farmers.

“The minister must provide suckler and beef farmers with direct tar geted support to offset the feed costs for this winter.

€1710, Lim 730kgs €1710, Lim X 745kgs €1700, Char X 680kgs €1480, AAX 710kgs €1600 Char X 755kgs €1420, SH 785kgs €1430, Char X 755kgs €1420, Lim X 790kgs €1400.

Heifers: Lim X 600kgs €1660, AAX 615kgs €1640, Char X 660kgs €1520, LIM X 630kgs €1520 CHAR X 600kgs €1400, Char X 500kgs €1200.

Bullocks: Char X 585kgs €2310, Char X 675kgs €2310, Lim X 657kgs €2300, Char X 730kgs €2300, Char X 672kgs €2280, Char X 775kgs €2270, Char X 625kgs €2270, Char X 635kgs €2230, Char X 810kgs €2230, Lim X 610kgs €2200, Lim X 725kgs €2140, Char X 565kgs €2160, Char X 775kgs €2150, Char X 600kgs €2100.

Weanling heifers: Char X 335kgs €1110 - €3.31 per kilo, Char X 335kgs €1100 - €3.28 per kilo, Char X 325kgs €1090 - €3.35 per kilo, Char X 345kgs €1170 - €3.10 per kilo, Char X 320kgs €990 - €3.09 per

The minister must also provide for longer-term direct supports for suckler farmers to bring the payment rate for suckler cows to €300 a cow and provide €100 an animal for cattle rearing and fin ishing farmers,” the IFA Livestock Chair said.

kilo, Char X 335kgs €1100 - €3.31 per kilo, Lim X 300kgs €900 - €3.10 per kilo, Lim X 280kgs €800 - €2.85 per kilo.

Weanling bulls: Lim X 455kgs €1490 - €3.27 per kilo, Char X 400kgs €1470 - €3.67 per kilo, Char X 495kgs €1460 - €2.95 per kilo, Char X 450kgs €1400 - €3.11 per kilo, LIM X 452kgs €1220 - €2.70 per kilo, LIM X 410kgs €1200 - €2.92 per kilo, LIM X 470kgs €1140 - €2.42 per kilo, Char X 400kgs €1260 - €3.15 per kilo.

Ewe lambs: 51.3kgs €138, 43.6kgs €136, 42.6kgs €135, 41.4kgs €133, 49.1kgs €130, 49 kgs €130, 39.2kgs €129, 46.2kgs €126, 46.3kgs €126.

Finished lambs: 57.3kgs €144, 53.7kgs €141, 51.4kgs €140, 50kgs €139, 54.3kgs €138, 49.1kgs €136, 49.7kgs €135, 48.6kgs €134.

Store lambs: 38.6kgs €118, 42.1kgs €114, 39.7kgs €111, 37kgs €110, 38.8kgs €110, 37.8kgs €108, 39.1kgs €105, 38.7kgs €104, 37kgs €102, 35.7kgs €100.

Friday, October

Special Sale of Heifers

116 pens of Heifers

Bullocks

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Friday, October 14th at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, 10th October. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Tuesday, 11th October at 4 p.m.

Show & Sale of Weanlings

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, 6th October - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Saturday, October 8th at 12 Noon

Organic Sale for Cattle & Sheep

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, 6th October.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m.

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

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Saturday, October 8th at 11 a.m.

Final Sale for Breeding

Ewes & Hoggets

Included in sale 50 Suffolk X Ewes

– 2 & 3 year-olds

Gates open at 8 a.m. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Irish Suffolk Sheep Society

Sale of Pedigree Suffolk Sheep

Saturday, 8th October

After the sale of Breeding Sheep

IFA National Livestock

An attractive 2 bed semi-detached bun galow residence of approx. 600 sq ft comprising briefly of reception/hallway, k itchen, sitting room, 2 bedrooms and bathroom set in one of the best loca tions in The Green development in the Shannonside Village of Lanesborough. Located to the rear of the develop ment, No 42 The Green offers wonder ful privacy and potential. The property has mains sewerage and mains water supply, central heating and is located within walking distance of all amenities to include schools, church, supermarket etc.

The auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

Remax Team Earley close sale of landmark commercial property in

This week, Remax Team Ear ley are pleased to advise that they have closed the sale of a landmark commercial property located in Ballyleague, Lanes boro, Co Roscommon.

A mixed-used investment property in the heart of Bal lyleague village, it comprises approximately 1.5 acres of land. The main property comprises briefly of commercial units on

the ground floor, and a residen tial unit to the second floor.

While the residential section is in need of refurbishment, this property represents excellent potential. The tenants are not af fected from this sale and it is of fering a fantastic yield. Remax Team Earley wish the new own ers the best of luck with their new venture.

The auctioneers are currently

looking for similar properties in all areas for cash buyers. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please con tact Remax Team Earley, Stone court, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@ remax.ie, or log onto teamear ley.ie. Contact the auctioneers directly: contact Cormac on 086 3519492 or Cathal on 086 1409158.

BARNA, GLENAMADDY,

A residence in need of completion of approx. 1,000 sq ft, standing on approx 0.7 of an acre located close to Glenamaddy Town.

The property is well situated between the busy towns and villages of Glenamaddy, Creggs and convenient to the towns of Tuam, Claremorris and Roscommon. Amenities within easy reach include shops, pubs, credit union, post office, primary and secondary schools, church and bus services.

Classifieds

COUNSELLING

Stephen Casey

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Mop & Mow

GARDENING

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Eoin Mulheir am apply ing to Roscommon County Council for planning permis sion and retention permis sion to:

1. Retain as constructed ex tension, site layout, which differs to that granted un der PD/19/120, difference includes: - building size and elevations; - change of existing agricultural site access to domestic access only, - change of site boundary.

2. Permission to realign existing boundaries to ac commodate entrance and improved site lines, and all associated site works at Dru matemple, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon, F45 PW52

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its pub lic opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writ ing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks begin ning 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: Eoin Mulheir

FENCING/GATES

Des Kelly Fencing

FRANCIS

PHYSICAL

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

PLANNINGS PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I Cathal Dunning, intend to apply for permission for the construction of a new storey and half dwelling house, new entrance, new effluent treatment system with polishing filter including all other ancillary site works and services at Cloonown Td, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €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: Cathal Dunning

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Mary Kelly-Barron, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, installation of tertiary treatment system and infiltration/treatment area, plus all ancillary works at Lackan Td., Portrunny, Co. Roscommon.

A Natura Impact Statement will be submitted to the planning authority with the application. This planning application and Natura Impact Statement will be available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public 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: MoleskinArchitecture

Mote Park, Roscommon

M: 086 3482387

E: info@moleskinarchitecture.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Anthony Doolan, Chairperson Lisnamult Residents and Community Association intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct spectator stand along side of main soccer pitch associated site development works at Lisnamult, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd.

Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974

Mobile: 086 8115449

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Enfield, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon.

We, Ciara Keane and Darragh O’Loughlin, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct dwelling house, garage and foul effluent treatment system all as per drawing documentation submitted together with all ancillary site works and services.

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

Signed: BK Engineering Design Ltd Chartered Engineers and Architectural Services

Abbey Street, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo

W: www.BkEngineeringDesign.com

E: bkengineeringdesign@gmail.com

PH: 087-7743327 / 0949630030

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Trevor McDonagh, intend to apply for Retention Permission to retain the following (a) an extension to the rear and side of an existing dwelling house as constructed (b) a domestic garage as constructed (c) along with associated site works at Lecarrow Townland, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed:

Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon.

Ph: (086) 3490965

W: www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Enda Stephens, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct extension to rear elevation and renovate existing dwelling house, raising and replacing existing roof and install a septic tank system and percolation area and all associated site works at Creevyquin, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Lo-Homes Limited Tonamaddy, Creggs, Co. Roscommon.

Mobile: 086 8551835

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, NW Lighthouse Marine Limited intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Retention Permission and Planning Permission for the following development:

1. To retain existing storm shelter barrier bounding an existing open winter boat storage area. To retain, complete and continuance of use of small inner harbour on South West side of site.

2. Permission to construct a covered winter boat storage shed incorporating the storm shelter barrier into the North West elevation of the proposed covered winter boat storage shed, provide 2 No. over ground rainwater harvesting storage tanks and all ancillary site works necessary to complete the development at Tara Marina, Knockadaff, Knockvicar, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the 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: Audrei Gilboy on behalf of NW Lighthouse Marine Limited Tara Marina, Knockadaff Knockvicar, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We Joanne and Alan Daly, of Lisnagroob, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission for:

(A) A new single storey sunroom extension. (B) A first floor extension to include change from dormer to full height two storey structure, to include roof windows. (C) New single storey porch. (D) Modify existing hipped roof too gable roof. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during the public opening hours of 9.30 – 16.30 Monday - Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by Roscommon County Council 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: Vincent Durkin (Agent). www.DurkinDesign.ie

Architectural

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Jacqueline Naughton

PLANNING PLANNING APPLICATIONS

NEW BUILDS, RENOVATIONS & EXTENSIONS

Lighting Design

Schemes

Mobile: 087 403 7803

Email: jacquelinenaughton @outlook.com

Gerry Hynes

MRIAI

Registered Architect

Qualified registered architect with experience in domestic new build and extensions, commercial, agricultural and building reports.

also Planning Applications and Ancillary Certifier for larger projects.

Gerry Hynes M.R.I.A.I. White Cottage, Doon, Strokestown, Roscommon F42 DF10

Phone: 087 2527290

Web: www.gerryhyne sarchitect.com

Email: gerryhynes01@ gmail.com

I, Liam McNamara, intend to apply for permission for the construction of a 2 storey dwelling house and domestic garage, waste water treatment system and percolation area along with connections to services and all other associated site works at Lissagallan Td, Cloverhill, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 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)6634423

Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED

CHAZEY PROPERTIES:

We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange ref erences, read meters, set up tenancy agree ments and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable.

Tel: 086 8212732

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

most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!

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The District Court Licensing (Ireland) Act 1833 Section 6

Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1960 Section 29

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF A LICENCE

District Court Area of Roscommon District No. 4 Greg Mulheir Applicant

TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Greg Mulheir of Rathconnor, Four Mile House, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon intends to apply to the Annual Licensing Court to be held at the Court at Roscommon District Court on the 01st November 2022 at 10:30 am for the TRANSFER to the Applicant of the Publican’s Licence (7-Day Ordinary) licence attached to the premises at Rosie at The Life Belt Bar, Ballyleague, Lanesboro, County Roscommon in the court area and district aforesaid.

Signed: Padhraic Harris & Co, Solicitors, Solicitor for Applicant, Merchant’s Gate, Merchant’s Road, Galway, Co. Galway.

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

To: The Fire Officer, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, F42 VR98. at fire@roscommoncoco.ie

Thelocalpaper!

To: The District Court Clerk, Roscommon District Court.

Sarah Fleming

Garvin Cleaning

Electrician

REPAIRS

ROOFING

DALTON Bridgie

Brookvale Avenue Roscommon Town and formerly Ballymore, Boyle.

In loving memory of Bridgie Dalton who passed away on the 20th March 2022.

M cDONNELL (née Downey) Mary

Castlemine, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon and formerly of Drinane, Ballygar, Co. Galway. Who passed away 5th October 2021

MALONE

The family of the late Bridgie Dalton would like to express our thanks and appreciation to all who sympathised with us on our sad loss.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all our relatives, friends and work colleagues who journeyed from near and far to express their sympathy.

To those who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, who sent mass cards, perpetual enrolments, letters of sympathy and floral tributes, we will always remember your kindness.

We would like to thank Dr. Fiona Sweeney and the staff at the Medical Centre, Roscommon for the excellent care given by them to Bridgie over the years.

We are extremely grateful to the wonderful staff of Oakwood Nursing Home, Roscommon who cared for Bridgie and who continue to provide excellent support for our Dad, Perry.

We wish to thank all the nurses and staff of St. Joseph`s Ward, Portiuncla Hospital, Ballinasloe who cared for Bridgie during her short illness.

Our thanks to Smyths Funeral Directors for their kindness and professionalism.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to Canon Joe Fitzgerald who celebrated Bridgie`s Funeral Mass and Burial and sincere thanks to Michael, Séamus and Fred Mulryan, for their beautiful music and singing.

Many thanks to the Leaving Cert class of Lanesboro Community College for their Guard of Honour at Bridgie’s Funeral.

To our wonderful neighbours in Brookvale Avenue and Bridgie`s many friends throughout her life thank you for your friendship and support to Bridgie and Perry over the years.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude.

“You were born on the longest day of the year, You left us on the Spring Equinox, as Winter turns to Summer. Be forever in Springtime Bridgie.”

The sister-in-law Mary, nieces, nephews and relatives of the late Mary McDonnell would like to thank all those who sympathised with them on the death of Mary.

Our sincere thanks to all those who sent mass cards, online condolences, messages of sympathy, attended the funeral or helped us in any way.

Special thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of Roscommon University Hospital, Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe, Sonas Nursing Home, Cloverhill and Dr. John Keenan who cared for Mary during her illness.

Heartfelt thanks to Orla and Anthonine and all her Home Care team for their exceptional care and devotion to Mary.

Special thanks to Mary’s very kind neighbours and friends who were such support to her down through the years.

Sincere thanks to Fr. Eamon Conaty, Canon Eugene McLoughlin, Deacon Seamus Talbot and Catherine Murray for the beautiful Funeral Mass and Month’s Mind Mass.

Thanks to Tom, Pat and Gillian Smyth for their professional attention to detail and the gravediggers who prepared Mary’s final resting place with such care. Thanks also to all the staff at Gleeson’s Restaurant for their hospitality following the funeral.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Mary’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, 8th of October at 7pm.

In loving memory of Jimmy, who passed away on the 1st October 2006

To us you were someone special, someone set apart, your memory will live forever, engraved within our hearts.

Loved and remembered by all the family.

Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday, 8th October at 7pm in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague.

HOGAN Paul

Convent Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. (22nd Anniversary)

M cNULTY Bridget

10 Hyde Court, Roscommon.

Who passed away on the 6th October 2021

In loving memory of Paul whom God called Home on 2nd October 2000

On the first anniversary of her death Bridget’s daughter Sharon, grandchildren Sarah, Katie, Emily and Conor, great-grandchildren April and Seán, along with her brothers and sister Michael, Helen and Frank wish to express our sincere gratitude to all those who helped us during Bridget’s final days.

We offer our heartfelt thanks to the ambulance and air-ambulance teams, the staff of St. Patrick’s Ward, University Hospital Galway for ensuring Bridget’s final days were peaceful and comfortable, we cannot thank you enough.

Thanks to Pat and Gillian Smyth for their help, professionalism and sensitive handling of the arrangements. Thanks to the gravediggers who helped prepare mum’s final resting place in Taughboy. Massive heartfelt thank you to all.

Thank you to Fr. Douglas for your support and guidance during the days prior to Bridget’s Funeral Mass and for delivering a beautiful service. Thank you to Fr. Beirne for committing Bridget to her final resting place in Taughboy Cemetery.

Sincere thanks to Danny Arnold for his beautiful singing and music in the Church.

Finally, to all our friends and neighbours, who offered condolences, cards and hot meals. We will be forever grateful, thank you.

THANKSGIVINGS WALSH Kevin Donamon, Roscommon (21st Anniversary)

Deep in our hearts is a picture more precious than silver or gold, the face of our loving son whose memory will never grow old.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary con ceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. M.S.

It’s hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember.

With fondest memories of happy times, sadly missed by all your family always.

Sadly missed by your Mam and Dad. xx

PAUL

The midnight star is shining on a grave not so far away.

Here sleeps a special brother I lost 22 years ago today.

Always remembered by your brother Damien.

~~~~~~~~~~

PAUL

Today, I remember and feel so sad.

A brother I miss and wish I still had.

The sorrow I feel and can never explain but the ache in my heart will always remain.

Sadly missed by your loving sister Caroline, brother-inlaw Derek, nephew Jamie and niece Keeva. xx

Please accept this acknowledgement as a gesture of our profound appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all your intentions.

Bridget’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town on Saturday, 8th of October at 7pm.

Jimmy Cloontuskert, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon (16th Anniversary)

BEIRNE

Irene and Sinéad Corbooley, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

CONNAUGHTON

Josephine (Josie)

Main Street, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

Who sadly passed away on the 8th of October 2020 (2nd Anniversary)

KING Breda

Racecourse Road, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

MANNION Gerard

CARR

Thomas, Mary & Michael Mote Park, Roscommon

Irene (3rd Anniversary, whom God took home 5th October 2019)

God called your name so softly, that only you could hear; and no one heard the footsteps, of angels drawing near.

The golden gates stood open, God saw you needed rest; His garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best.

Sinéad (22nd Anniversary, whom God took home 21st April 2000)

Always a smile, instead of a frown. Always a hand when one was down. Always true, thoughtful and kind, wonderful memories you left behind. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by Michael (husband/ father) Tracy, Cathríona and Lisa (daughters/sisters) Michéal (son/brother) Nathan, Robyn and Thomas (grandchildren/niece and nephews) extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass for Irene and Sinéad will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 8th October at 7pm.

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many fa vours. This time I ask this you for this special favour. (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. Say for three days and promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. E.M.

A day that’s filled with sadness returns to us today, you closed your eyes and quietly slipped away. You had a smile for everyone, you had a heart of gold, you left the sweetest memories this world could ever hold.

A smile can hide our sadness, tears can be wiped away, but the heartache of losing you will never go away.

Because you were so special, no words could ever say, how much we love and miss you, today and everyday.

Loved, remembered and sadly missed by Martin, Paul, Neil, Aoife, Mervyn, Ivan, grandchildren and extended family.

Anniversary Mass will take place at St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Friday, 7th October at 7pm.

KENNY Michael

Whitepark, Curraghboy (7th Anniversary)

Who died on 9th October 2015

In loving memory of Breda, who died October 9th 2012

October comes with sad regret. It brings a day we’ll never forget. You closed your eyes without goodbye, but memories of you will never die.

Sadly missed by her husband Haulie, sons, daughter-in-law Dharshini and grandson. Masses offered.

BANAHAN

Gretta & John

In loving memory of the late Gretta and John Banahan, Hollywell.

Also remembering Patsy and Peggy who have also passed away.

In loving memory of a dearly loved son and brother, who died on the 6th October 2002

R.I.P.

Sadly missed and forever loved by his loving mother Phil, brother Adrian, sisters Martina and Deirdre and extended families.

Forever in our thoughts, may his gentle soul Rest in Peace

MURRAY

Jarlath

Lanesboro, Co. Longford (11th Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 4th October 2011

MURRAY

Freda

Lanesboro, Co. Longford (19th Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 22nd October 2003

M cGILL

Michael (32nd Anniversary)

Remembering our parents Thomas and Mary and our brother Michael on their anniversary.

Words and times we can no longer share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Remembered by your loving family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Monday, 10th October at 7pm.

With perfect trust in God’s love and care I’ll walk to my journey’s end.

Sadly missed by your loving wife Chrissie, daughters Antoinette, Sheila, Martina and Anita, sons-in-law, grandchildren and all the family.

Anniversary Mass on Friday, 14th October at 7pm in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy.

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

Always remembered and sadly missed by John, Deirdre and grandchildren.

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, prom ise publication and favour will be granted. M.W

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, prom ise publication and favour will be granted. G.C.

(nee Murray)

Marian Ardara, Donegal (21st Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 17th October 2001

God called your names so softly, that only you could hear, and no one heard the footsteps of Angels drawing near.

The Golden Gates stood open God saw you needed rest,

His garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best. Always remembered by Greg, Mary, Eoin and David. Masses offered.

Thomas (20th Anniversary) Mary (3rd Anniversary)

Late of Carntleva, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon (20th Anniversary)

Appointments Continuous Professional

Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon F45 Y860

Frenchpark & Districts Childcare CLG will be holding a 8 from 9.30am to

Telephone: 094 9870111

Email: info@fdcl.ie

Frenchpark & Districts Childcare Clg (FDCL) are recruiting a Community Employment (CE) Supervisor (39 hour, Fixed Term 13 week contract, Monday - Friday daytime hours)

To ensure the effective, efficient management and co-ordination of the CE Scheme

Support and coach CE participants towards gaining qualifications, skills and competencies required in

This workshop provides participants with effective strategies to help children

Ensure work experience placements on scheme are in line with CE guidelines

Ensure all programme files are maintained to a high standard and in compliance with data

Plan and co-ordinate the approved work schedules and ensure contracts of employment are in place

Manage staff resources as required and deal with all HR matters in relation to participants

Liaise with employers to promote progression into employment following completion of CE

Fun and exciting ideas for the child's environment in the Early Years setting

25 per person which includes refreshments and

Major QQI Level 6 award or higher in Supervisory Management, Childcare or similar

The Investing in Children Membership Award will also be showcased

As this post is based across multiple sites in Roscommon a Full driving licence, availability to travel and Stephen Donohue, Frenchpark and Districts Childcare CLG, Frenchpark, info@fdcl.ie

Closing date for applications is Thursday,13th October 2022. This position is funded by the Department of Social Protection

Communicate between Scania HQ and our dealer network

Westward Scania is based in Strokestown since 1959 and is the distributor of Scania products in the Republic of Ireland since 1976. Reporting to the Aftersales Manager, the successful candidate will take compliance with all Scania warranty

Training dealer staff on Warranty manual, systems and procedures

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

SALES

Logstrup (Ireland)

is an international company

design and

Due to an increasing level of business at our Tuam plant we invite applications for the following positions:

Work local…..less time driving…..less cost of travel

• Machine Shop Operators

Previous experience would be an advantage

• Assembly Operators

Previous experience in mechanical assembly would be an advantage

• Sub Assembly Operators

Full training given

• Press Brake Setter Operators

Previous experience required on Trumpf, LVD or similar.

• Stores Operators

Previous experience required in a warehouse environment

• Injection Moulding Machine Operators

Previous experience required on setup and programming of Arburg, Sumitomo Demag, Engel or similar

• Maintenance Fitter

CNC experience required

Replies to: info@logstrup.ie

Deadline for receipt of applications: Friday 14th October 2022

Logstrup (Ireland) Limited, Dunmore Road, Tuam, Co. Galway, H54 RR44 Tel: 093 70900 Fax: 093 70901 Email: info@logstrup.ie

CHEF REQUIRED

FOR ROSCOMMON CHINA PALACE LTD AT 11 MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON, COUNTY ROSCOMMON

For food preparation, training of staff and assisting head chef during service Salary €30,217.20 per annum Hours of employment per week: 39hours

Applications to be made to: Roscommon China Palace Ltd, 11 Main Street, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

SITUATIONS VACANT

Mechanical /Electrical Assembly Technician

< BAR STAFF

VACANT

This

‘New Chapter’ for RWN’s social enterprise

velopment of Roscommon Wom en’s Network, describing it as a “safe harbour”.

There was a good turnout for Ro scommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp textiles

social enterprise at the Riverside Centre in Athleague on Friday last.

The event dubbed ‘a new chap ter for RWN’ heard from keynote speakers such as Dr. Sarah Miller, CEO of the Rediscovery Centre in Dublin, as well as Acting Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Shane Tiernan.

The event also heard from Cy cleUp designers, producers and tu tors, Maria Hourigan and Margaret Browning.

On display were a number of items which the Roscommon Women’s Network had created from up-cycled clothes and other materials.

RWN board member and MC for the event, Rita Kearney said the CycleUp enterprise was an exam ple of members’ power and pas sion and enabled the network to focus on inclusion while address ing climate change in a tangible way.

RWN Manager, Nora Fahy, said funding for the enterprise had been obtained during former Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Denis Naughten’s tenure.

She thanked all those who have supported CycleUp including RWN volunteers past and present, for their part in the continued de

Ms. Fahy said the RWN was looking forward to working with Rethink Ireland business men tor, Declan Droney, as well as the reopening of community services. She added that the CycleUp enter prise would create employment in the circular economy while RWN continued to provide a vital service for women in the county.

The CycleUp enterprise was originally the brainchild of RWN volunteer Jane Haywood, who told those gathered that she had gained inspiration following a visit to the Rediscovery Centre in Dublin.

CycleUp Coordinator Martina Hourigan said she was inspired by the passion and motivation displayed by Jane and other vol unteers. She added that RWN had become a member of the Redis covery circular economy and that a number of training courses had been rolled out in Roscommon.

Rethink Ireland business mentor, Declan Droney, told those present that he had worked with 50 social enterprises but Roscommon Wom en’s Network’s CycleUp initiative really stood out.

“Entrepreneurs jump off a cliff and learn how to build a parachute on the way down…this parachute will be made out of recycled clothes,” he said as he praised members for their strong leader ship, vision and resilience.

Sarah Miller, CEO of the Redis covery Centre also paid tribute to the RWN.

“It’s a wonderful organisation and CycleUp is a fantastic project,” she said before confirming that her organisation would be working closely with RWN in the future.

Acting Roscommon County Council CEO Shane Tiernan said the event was a “beacon of light” on what had started out as a dark and dull day weather-wise. He added that it was also a poign ant day as former Council CEO Eugene Cummins was stepping down.

“He (Mr. Cummins) would have been passionate about a project like this,” he said.

“Roscommon County Council’s focus is on supporting projects like these…the UpCycle enterprise is one of the first of its kind in the county”.

Mr. Tiernan added that the circu lar economy was the way forward and pledged the continued support of the local authority.

Speaking during a questions and answers session towards the end of the event, Cllr. Orla Leyden, who had previously served on the RWN board for 10 years, praised volun teers and current board members.

Cllr. Leyden expressed her hope that the RWN premises at Ath league become a “satellite centre for the western region”, a view which was echoed by RWN man ager Nora Fahy.

Over 3,000 Castlerea premises to receive high-speed broadband

National Broadband Ireland an nounced this week that construc tion has commenced to deliver high-speed broadband to 3,600 premises in Castlerea, bringing the number of Roscommon premises at construction phase to almost 7,200.

Commenting on the rollout in Ro scommon Peter Hendrick, Chief Executive Officer, National Broad band Ireland said: “We are confi dent that the rollout will continue to gather pace as our ability to move premises from the construction phase to the order phase ramps up.

“We are currently working closely with retail service providers, and other stakeholders, to connect homes in County Roscommon. Minimum speeds of 500Mbps will be available.

< DAN DOONER

Speakers at Roscommon Women’s Network’s showcase of its CycleUp social enterprise in Athleague last Friday included (left to right): Martina Hourigan, CycleUp Coordinator, Sarah Miller, CEO, Rediscovery Centre, Jane Haywood RWN Textile Upcycling Instigator, Rita Kearney, RWN and MC for the event, and Declan Droney, Business Mentor, Rethink Ireland. Pic: Mick McCormack

Sports PEOPLE

Ladies’ Intermediate final this Saturday

< SEAMUS DUKE

The Roscommon LGFA Intermediate final will takeplace in Ballyleague this Saturday at 4.45 pm whenBoyle meet St. Ciaran’s.

Boyle will start as the favourites but St. Ciaran’s aremore than capable of springing a surprise.

Meanwhile, the Abbey Hotel Roscommon SFCsemi-finals take place on Sunday with championsClann na nGael taking on St. Dominic’s at 11 amin Johnstown and St. Brigid’s meeting Kilbride inKilbride at 1 pm.

It would be a major shock if Clann weren’t to advance from the first semi-final with a bit to spare.The second semi-final promises to be a very closefought encounter with Kilbride narrow favourites.

GAA Results

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Quarter-Finals

St. Brigid’s 2-12 Clann na nGael 1-12

Roscommon Gaels 1-11 Pádraig Pearses 1-6

Strokestown 2-11 Oran 0-11 Boyle 1-11 Michael Glavey’s 0-9

Hodson Bay Hotel Relegation Play-offs

Tulsk Lord Edwards 0-13 Elphin 1-7

Callington Ltd IFC Quarter-Finals

St. Croan’s 3-16 St. Aidan’s 0-7

Final Four!

< SEAMUS DUKE

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Semi-Finals

The Hodson Bay Hotel Roscom mon Senior Football Champion ship and Callington Ltd Intermedi ate Football Championships have reached the semi-finals stage with all four games down for decision this weekend at Dr. Hyde Park…

Roscommon Gaels

v Strokestown at 2 pm Not too many were predicting this as a semi-final pairing, but the two ‘town’ teams are here on merit and both will be going into this game confident of making it to the final.

Strokestown played well in the group stages but they just about scraped into the quarter-finals. However, there were signs against Pádraig Pearses that John Rogers’ men were going to produce a big display and that they did against Oran last Sunday.

They played some great stuff in the quarter-final and their direct brand of football, kicking the ball long into their full forward line, paid rich dividends with Shane McGinley and Diarmuid McGann the benefi ciaries.

Strokestown have some very ex perienced players who have all rep resented Roscommon at one stage or other and they will feel that they will have the measure of the Gaels on Sunday.

However, Roscommon Gaels produced their best championship performances in many years in their last two games. They easily

swatted away Michael Glavey’s in their final group match and then last Saturday they dealt with the consid erable challenge of Padraig Pearses, dumping the champions out with a confident display of attacking foot ball.

Under Frankie Dolan’s manage ment, the county town team have been transformed following the re turn of players from abroad. However, they will have to be very careful not to take Strokestown for granted on Sunday as Strokestown have the players to take advantage of any complacency in the Gaels’ camp.

This could well be a cracking match but the odds would have to favour Roscommon Gaels. If they can maintain the form that we have seen in the past two games they should be good enough to progress to the final.

Prediction: Roscommon Gaels (narrowly).

Boyle v St. Brigid’s at 4.15 pm

This is a far more predictable pair ing and both sides have made it this far without losing a match. How ever, it must be said that both teams were less than impressive in their quarter-final wins.

Brigid’s started this champion ship in flying form and under new manager Jerome Stack, the Kiltoom men quickly became the team to beat. When they hammered Pád raig Pearses they shot to the top of the betting and since then nothing has happened to take them off their pedestal.

Boyle have not been too far in terms of their performances thus far.

Hyde set for weekend of semi-finals

However, they fell over the line last Sunday against Michael Glavey’s and they won’t need to be told that they will have to play better this weekend if they are to advance.

Cian McKeon, Donie Smith and Daire Cregg make up the strongest full-forward line in the county and they have the potential to beat any opposition with their skill and scor ing power.

Another tight game in prospect here, and in truth this is the toss of a coin. Boyle have come up short in big games in recent seasons against some of the more established teams and they will want to put a big per formance together this weekend. Weighing up the form of each side, the hesitant vote goes to men from north Roscommon to emerge by a point or two. Prediction: Boyle.

Callington Ltd IFC Semi-Finals

(Both games on Saturday in Dr Hyde Park)

Fuerty v St. Dominic’s at 2.30 pm

This is a definite candidate for ‘Game of the Weekend’. Dominic’s will go into the match as favourites but they won’t be going any further if they don’t produce their best dis play of the season against a Fuerty team who have been very impres sive again in this campaign.

Dominic’s started their champion ship slowly but they are coming into this semi-final unbeaten and they will hope that all their big players like Mark Miley, Eoin McCormack, Jack Lohan, Keith Doyle, Darren

Donnelly and Daire Keenan are on top form.

Tomas Gilleran’s charges have im proved in each game and are com ing into top form at just the right time.

Fuerty will be hoping that the Ly ons’ brothers, Mark Ward, Philip Neilan, the Bannons, Niall Kilroy and co will rise to the occasion.

Fuerty have plenty of big match experience in recent years and they will pose a formidable challenge this Saturday.

But Dominic’s are on a mission. They have experienced heartbreak in the last two finals and are deter mined to make it third time lucky this year. They should be good enough.

Prediction: St. Dominic’s Éire Óg v St. Croan’s at 4.45 pm Éire Óg will come into the match on the crest of a wave following the euphoria of their penalty success against St. Brigid’s last weekend. Liam Creaton and Conor Cox led the charge and they will have to beprominent again if Éire Óg are to advance to a final.

St. Croan’s, who are down from the senior ranks, started this cham pionship slowly but are coming into form at just the right time. Mike Holland, Gerard Connaughton, Keith Muldoon, Ross Timothy and Cathal Connelly are all playing well and Malachy Gately will want a crack at getting his charges back up at their first attempt.

Croan’s look the more balanced side and they should advance by a few points.

Prediction: St. Croan’s

Fuerty 3-13 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 1-8 St. Dominic’s 1-13 Creggs 0-8 Éire Óg 0-17 St. Brigid’s 0-17

Callington Ltd IFC Relegation Play-off

Shannon Gaels 3-6 Clann na nGael 0-9

King and Moffatt JAFC Quarter-Finals

Ballinameen 0-13 St. Dominic’s 0-9

Strokestown 1-9 Kilglass Gaels 1-8 St. Ronan’s 1-14 Roscommon Gaels 1-8

Pádraig Pearses 3-9 St. Michael’s 0-10

RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd JBFC (Group A)

Pádraig Pearses 0-8 St. Michael’s 1-4

RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd JBFC (Group C)

Shannon Gaels W/O Kilglass Gaels

Fixtures

Friday, October 7th

RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd JBFC (Group A)

At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v Pádraig Pearses. 8 pm

Saturday, October 8th

Callington Ltd IFC Semi-Finals

At Dr. Hyde Park: Fuerty v St. Dominic’s. 2.30 pm

At Dr. Hyde Park: St. Croan’s v Éire Óg. 4.45 pm

U-20 Football Championship Division Three

At O’Rourke Park: Kilbride v Western Gaels. 4 pm

King and Moffatt JAFC Semi-Final

At Kiltoom: Pádraig Pearses v Strokestown. 4.15 pm

RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd JBFC (Group B)

At Kilmore: Kilmore v St. Faithleach’s. 4 pm

At Kiltoom: St. Brigid’s v Elphin. 7 pm

RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd JBFC (Group D)

At Rockfield: Oran v Clann na nGael. 4 pm

Sunday, October 9th

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Semi-Finals

At Dr. Hyde Park: Roscommon Gaels v Strokestown. 2 pm

At Dr. Hyde Park: St. Brigid’s v Boyle. 4.15 pm

King and Moffatt JAFC Semi-Finals

At Croghan: Ballinameen v St. Ronan’s. 1 pm

RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd JBFC (Group A)

At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v St. Dominic’s. 12 pm

RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd JBFC (Group C)

At Peadar Earley Memorial Park: Michael Glavey’s v Éire Óg. 12 pm

Pressure point: Padraig Pearses’ manager Pat Flanagan pictured at Dr. Hyde Park on Saturday where his team were defeated by Roscommon Gaels. Photo: Mick McCormack

Creggs bow out of Cawley Cup Coggeran claims All-Ireland title

Holders Creggs exited the Cawley Cup at the semi-final stage following defeat to 14-man Westport in front of a good crowd at Creggs last Sunday.

The hosts, who were depleted through injuries, took an early lead when Aidan Leech broke from 40 metres to touch down. Brian Cleary added the extras.

Westport’s bigger pack began to pay dividends as the half went on and they kicked their way into Creggs territory before scoring a converted try to level matters. The Mayo side then went ahead as they made their possession pay.

Eoghan Coyle almost put Creggs back in front after he made a clev er break down the left wing. He knocked on at the goal line however and Westport escaped.

Creggs did eventually get levelthrough prop Sean Óg Higgins, who took possession and raced thirty me tres, breaking through three tacklers in the process, to grab Creggs second try. Paul Brandon converted to send the sides in at 14-14.

It was the visitors who started the second half the brightest and they took a seven-point lead within nine minutes of the restart. Creggs reacted quickly, however, as Coyle led the charge, followed by Lee Kilcoyne before Bradley Neunes broke the line to add the hosts’ third try of the game. The conversion was missed and Westport held a two-point lead with 20 minutes left.

Westport went on the attack once

more, looking to add to their slim ad vantage, and they were rewarded for some smart play to grab their fourth try to stretch their lead to seven going into the closing stages.

Tom Farrell came into the Creggs’ pack and his impact was immedi ate with the hosts dominant thereaf ter. This in turn led to the younger Creggs side the freedom to show their ability and they set up camp in the Westport half as they looked to rescue the match.

Creggs were further boosted with less than ten minutes to go when Westport were reduced to 14 fol lowing a head to face collision. The Creggs pack worked hard and showed plenty of ball skills but just couldn’t find another score. West port’s defence held firm as the visi tors ran out 26-19 winners.

Mini Rugby

Mini Rugby is back in full swing in Creggs each Saturday morning at 10 am. If your child is aged 5 to 12 and wants to try it out, just turn up on Sat urday and introduce yourself to the adult coaches.

Youth Rugby

The Creggs U-14 Girls team played the formidable amalgamation of Tuam/Oughterard in Creggs last weekend. The visitors had a strong squad and led 8 tries to one at halftime. Creggs came out a different

team in the second half and outscored the visitors 5-3 to leave the final score 11-6.

Creggs’ U-14 Boys took on Corin thians Blue in the first round of the league in Creggs. Corinthians started brightly and were up by two tries before Conor Muldoon replied for Creggs before half-time.

The second half saw Corinthians score two in the space of five min utes to effectively put the game be yond Creggs. The hosts never gave up however and Matthew Donnelly went over with just six minutes re maining but Corinthians held on to secure a 24-14 win.

Creggs RFC would like to wish Pat rick Murray a speedy recovery after he sustained a knee injury late in the game.

The U-16 Boys played their first match away to Corinthians in Gal way. This was a challenge match as part of the team’s preparations for the league campaign. It ended in a narrow 19-17 defeat for the visitors.

New players are welcome to join this talented side.

Missouri’s’ Man of the Match

Creggs RFC is delighted to hear Ci aran Corcoran is settling well in his new surrounds at the University of Missouri. Ciaran is studying history and politics and also playing some rugby for the University’s first team.

Last weekend, they took on the Uni

THE GAIN LINE Soccer

versity of Kansas, where he met three other Irish players studying there. Ciaran picked up the Man of the Match award following his per formance. Best of luck Ciaran and see you at Christmas!

Ballinasloe Town top Premier Division

Ballinasloe Town made it three wins in succession at the top of the Norio’s Pre mier Division with a 4-2 win at Kilker rin United last weekend. The Town re covered from a 2-1 deficit early in the second half to grab all three points on the road.

Reigning champions, Boyle Celtic, ran out 3-0 winners over CP Ajax in Castle plunkett while Moore United beat Bal

laghaderreen 4-1 in Moore thanks to goals from Charles Nevin (2), Andy Hussey and young Jack Nevin. Elsewhere, Castlerea Celtic showed signs of improvement when they sealed a last-gasp win over St. John’s Athletic in Lecarrow. Robbie Shine had equal ised for the hosts in the 90th minute fol lowing Oisin O’Farrell’s opener before O’Farrell turned provider in stoppage

On the Field...

Roscommon Town U-14s I played in the Pre mier Division Cup final on Monday nigh under the lights in Lecarrow against Skyvalley Rovers.

The Town created plenty of chances but were unable to convert in the first half and Skyvalley capitalised on a rare error early in the second half to take the lead.

time to set up Niall Higgins for Celtic’s winner.

In Division One, leaders Dysart were beaten 2-1 at home by Ballinagare Manor United while Challenge Cup holders Shiven Rovers were somewhat flattered by the 4-1 scoreline in their win over an improving Roscommon United side at Lisnamult.

Second-placed Ballymoe FC mean

while suffered an 8-2 defeat in Cloon fad with Conor Flynn scoring four for United and Jack Reinhardt also com pleting a hat-trick. In Division Two, St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United held onto top spot thanks to their 3-1 win at home to St. John’s Athletic B while former St. John’s striker Jamie Tiernan scored all four goals in Rahara Rovers’ 4-2 win over Glen Celtic.

Kilglass is celebrating its first ever All-Ireland handball champion after Alanna Coggeran won the 60x30 Girls’ U-17 title in Loughmacrory, Co. Tyrone last Sunday.

Alanna faced local girl Dearbhail Fox who was wellfavoured after an impressive run to the final. The start of the match did nothing to dispel that expectation as the Tyrone girl raced into a 12-0 lead. However, Alan na never panicked and once she started to volley Fox’s serve the tide turned quite quickly. Alanna also served beautifully, breaking the ball across the back wall from deep on the left side and Fox really struggled with it for the rest of the match. The Red Hand girl didn’t re act as coolly to the pressure as Alanna did and a lot of mistakes crept into her game. Alanna drew level at 13-apiece and simply maintained the pressure with a very aggressive two-handed volleying game to run out an impressive 21-13 winner.

The second was a closer game all the way through, though Alanna held the lead most of the way. Fox showed great courage and tidied up her game to stay in touch, but Alanna usually got the better of any long ral lies with some excellent court coverage and outstand ing left-hand play. Earlier on, Allana’s serving wasn’t quite as consistent as the first game, but once it came to the business end of the match, she regained her touch and from 16-15 up she finished the match off in style for a very popular 21-15 win.

Great credit must go to Alanna’s parents: John, a na tive of Ballaghaderreen, who trains with Alanna for hours at a time and her mother Fiona, a self-confessed ‘handball widow’ who has racked up serious mileage over the last three years transporting Alanna around the country for training sessions.

C’mon

The Town (Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

In association

Conor Gilmore was heroic as he saved two pen alties but he was unable to prevent Skyvalley’s second goal.

Cian Kiernan responded for the Town with a close-range finish but they were unable to find a late equaliser as Skyvalley held on to claim the cup.

A word of thanks to Padraig and Paul in the RDYSL and to Niall Kelly for having the league grounds in splendid condition. Thanks also to Skyvalley for a sporting game.

This evening (Thursday), the Boys’ U-16 team play their Premier Division Cup semi-final first leg against Glen Celtic. Kickoff in Ballymoe is 7 pm. The second leg is scheduled for this Sunday in Lisnamult at 5.30 pm.

At U-11 level, our two EL teams lost out in their semi-finals. This Friday, our two CL teams are on the road. CL1 are in Ballaghaderreen while CL2 are in Moore.

Club meeting...

Our next meeting is on Wednesday, Octo ber 12th at 8 pm in the clubhouse. All are very welcome as we contin ue to reflect and plan.

Reminder...

A reminder to all parents, players, coaches, and other volunteers to complete the feedback forms at your earliest convenience. You will have received the link in your group recently. It’s a very simple exercise (positives, negatives, and suggestions), and the content collated will be used to reflect on this season and to progress further next season. Alternatively, you can email your feedback to info@ roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie.

Alanna Coggeran receives her All-Ireland winner’s medal from Dessie Keegan, Irish Handball President at Loughmacrory, Co. Tyrone last Sunday.

The Roscommon Town U-14 team who were Premier Division Cup finalists recently.

Creggs RFC is delighted to hear Ciaran Corcoran is settling well in his new surrounds at the University of Missouri.

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

A quiet weekend on the horseracing scene starting today (Thursday) over the jumps at Thurles in Co. Tipperary at 2 pm.

Tomorrow (Friday), there is a jumps meeting at Downpatrick from 1.57 pm and meeting under lights over the all-weather at Dundalk, first race at 5.30 pm.

Saturday sees the first jumps card of the season at Fairyhouse featuring the Adare Manor Opportunity Chase, tapes away at 2.10 pm and a flat card at headquarters, The Curragh, featuring the Group 3 Staffordstown Stud Stakes for 2-Y-O fillies, with stalls opening for the first at 1.25 pm.

Sunday and Monday were both blank days on the calendar but a flat meeting has been scheduled for Kil larney on Monday afternoon. National hunt racing on Tuesday and Wednes day at Punchestown.

The Sir Mark Prescott-trained Al pinista with Luke Morris in the sad dle gave both the biggest success of their careers, landing the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp on Sunday. The 5-Y-O stayed on to hold off Vadeni and Torquator Tasso, last year’s winner.

Of the Aidan O’Brien pair, Lux embourg finished lame, having pulled a muscle, in a disappointing 7th with Broome 8th. Torquator Tasso has been retired but Vadeni, Westover 6th, and Luxembourg look like they will be staying in training next season.

Tuesday’s national hunt at Hunt ingdon had to be abandoned after two races due to dangerous ground. A horse slipped on the bend in the first, a hurdle race, and in the second, a chase, horses were slipping approaching the fences resulting in a meeting between the clerk of the course, the stewards, and the jockeys. It was decided to aban don the rest of the card.

There is cross channel racing on ITV4 and Virgin Media 1 tomorrow with ten races being covered, five from Newmarket including three Group rac es, three from York including the Brit

ish EBF £100,000 2Yo Series Final, and two from Chepstow including a Group 2 race.

On Saturday, six races will be cov ered by ITV4 and Virgin Media 1, four from Newmarket, including the Group 1 Darley Dewhurst Stakes and two Group 3 races, with three races from York.

Racing News

The death of Liam Ward, who was Vincent O’Brien’s retained jockey in Ireland, took place on Monday at the age of 92. Ward, the six-time champion flat jockey in Ireland, won ten Irish clas sics including Sindon in the 1958 Irish Derby and won his second on Nijinsky for O’Brien in the 1970. He also won the other four Irish classic races. Four of his jockey’s titles, from 1956 to 1959, were won before he was retained by O’Brien. He was also retained by Paddy Prender gast.

The Galway Plate winner, the John

‘Shark’ Hanlon-trained Hewick, hav ing recovered from his last fence fall in the Kerry National, has been sent to America for a tilt at the American Grand National at Far Hills on October 15th, a race worth $250,000.

Australia’s beloved mare Verry El leegant who came over to Europe to run in the Arc where she was unable to run as her official French rating of 113, 7lbs below her Australian rating, was too low. The mare will run in the Champion Fillies & Mares Stakes on Qipco British Champions Day at Ascot.

Jockey Christophe Soumillon was handed a two month ban for appearing to elbow Rossa Ryan out of the saddle at Saint-Cloud last Friday. Soumillon was riding Syros in the Prix Thomas Bryon Jockey Club de Turquie and just before the field turned for home, he moved towards Ryan on Captain Wierzba ap pearing to elbow his fellow rider, who was not hurt in the fall. Soumillion was free to ride at the Arc meeting as the ban starts on October 14th. Soumillon

had his contract as first rider for the Aga Khan terminated on Tuesday, but he could yet ride again in the famous silks he has worn to victory on some of rac ing’s greatest horses.

Point-to-Point News

Point to pointing this weekend is at Moira in Co. Armagh on Saturday, and on Sunday the Galway Blazers race at Dartfield Equestrian Centre outside Loughrea with a 2 pm start in both ven ues.

A new book based around point-topoint racing will be on the bookshelves all around the country soon and makes a lovely Christmas present this year. Fol lowing the success of Thrills and Spills and Flat Out, racing photographer Pat Healy and his team has linked up with writer and racing commentator Richard Pugh to introduce the riders, handlers, venues, and famous horses that give an insight into the unique spirit of Irish point-to-pointing racing.

Coman’s attend Athlone Gala

Coman’s Swimming Club was out in force last Sat urday with a total of 28 members taking part in the Future Challengers Gala in Athlone.

In the U-12s, Ciara Lally, Roscommon, and Áine Doherty, Castlerea, both received the coveted ‘A Time’ wristbands for both the 100m Individual Medley and the 200m Freestyle. Both also received ‘B Times’ in the 100m Breaststroke.

Beane Hwang, Roscommon, also received a B Time wristband in the U-12 100m IM while there were some notable performances from Michael McGuinness, Cormac McGuinness, Alex Moore, Senan Grogan and Mary McPhillips.

In the U-11 category, Dara Cummins, Roxboro, received his first wristband with a B time in the Boys’ 100m Freestyle. Annah McCormack, Ryan Kelly, Alex Petrova-Habrova, Ailbhe O’Connor, Tom Mulligan, and Saoirse Heavey also performed superbly.

In U-10s, Ava Kiernan, Roscommon, got a brilliant A-time in 100m IM and a B-time in 50m Freestyle. Meanwhile, newcomers Sadhbh Kelleher, Sheena Kelly, Doireann Lally, Moya Flynn, Faye Kelly, Ali Farrell, Mary Ryan, and Marc McCafferty all swam brilliantly in the 50m freestyle.

Finally, in the over 12s category, Juliet Jaison, Siobhan Mitchell and Jake Raftery all knocked sec onds off their personal best times.

Well done to all and thanks to their coaches Elaine, Kayo, Konrad, and Arlene for preparing them so well for the event.

(Above) Coman’s Swimming Club members who attended the Future Challengers Gala in Athlone recently.

(Right)

Pictured are Coman’s’ A and B time wristband winners at the Future Challengers Gala in Athlone (left to right): Beane Hwang, Ava Kiernan, Aine Doherty, Ciara Lally, and Dara Cummins.

Short putts

Athlone

Golf Ireland President thanked Ath lone Golf Club for hosting the four All-Ireland finals recently. The finals were a tremendous success, with Athlone receiving great praise from visiting teams and Golf Ireland of ficials.

All-Ireland results: Flogas Mixed Foursomes: Warrenpoint 3.5 Portum na 1.5; Fred Perry Trophy: Nenagh 3.5 Connemara Isles 1.5; Revive Ac tive Women’s Fourball: East Cork 4 Edmondstown 1; Men’s Fourball: Connemara Isles 3 Newbridge 2. Liz O’Sullivan won the Ladies’ 18-hole Stableford recently with 45 points while Tony Reape won the Plumbers’ with 21 points.

Other results: Women’s Weekly competition: Lizzie O’Sullivan (42 points); Women’s 9-hole: Emily Martin (22).

Boyle

The most recent Thursday competi tion was won by Gabriel Lavin with 24 points while Lochlainn Conboy was runner-up with 21. Owen Garvin (21) was third while Conboy also won the 2s club. Thursday competi tions restart next April.

The first of our King Harmon Cup qualifying competitions took place last weekend and will continue for the next two weekends. This year, we are experimenting with increas ing the number of qualifying players to 16 but if matches aren’t played by the required dates, we will revert to 8 qualifying next year.

Gabriel Lavin would like to invite members to the club’s relaunched annual outing, which takes place this year on Saturday, November 5th at Claremorris Golf Club. Green fee is €20 and food at the clubhouse is €15. Accommodation is available at the McWilliam Park Hotel, bookings to be made by interested parties them selves.

Carrick

The club wishes to thank Gus O’Shea and family for their gener ous sponsorship of the Joan O’Shea Mixed Scramble recently. Congratu lations to the winning team of John O’Mahony, Deirdre McGettrick, and Dolores Mulvey with an excel lent score of 52 points. Runners-up were Albert Hogg, Ann Conroy Mc Dermott, and Carmel Garvey with 48 points while Colm Griffin, Ei thne McGuire and Margaret Killoran were third with 46.

Roscommon

The recent Men’s 18-hole competi tion was won by Padraig Kelly with 45 points while the Ladies’ 9-hole competition was won by Carmel Walker with 24 points.

P. Moran won the Men’s Senior competition with 39 points while Phil Murray-O’Brien was best of the Ladies’.

Our Ladies’ team took part in the Roscommon Cup competition which was played in Ballaghaderreen Golf Club last Saturday. This is an annual event for ladies from the seven Ro scommon golf clubs and is kindly sponsored by Sinead Devine. Con gratulations to Ballaghaderreen who were the winners on the day.

Finally, the draw for the Ladies’ Winter League will be held shortly. Check the locker room for your team details and good luck to all those par ticipating!

Christophe Soumillon, on the left at the back, elbows Rossa Ryan and dislodges him from the saddle at Saint-Cloud last Friday.

THE SPORTS STUDIO

White smoke soon (but it won’t be Kieran)…

So, it’s safe to say that Roscommon football’s version of ‘The Masked Singer’ won’t be culminating in the unveiling of Kerry great Kieran Don aghy.

The long wait for a successor to Anthony Cunningham continues, with the specu lation surrounding the vacancy drifting into strange territory for a few unhelpful ly rumour-fuelled hours earlier this week.

Amid intense speculation on Monday evening that Kieran Donaghy – the for mer Kerry star who is currently part of the Armagh management team – was on the verge of being named as Roscom

Danny (83) still crazy (about GAA) after all these years…

< PAUL HEALY

When I saw this photograph of the ageless (well, he’s 83) Danny Burke on GAA umpire duty last weekend, I decided to ring the renowned Cas tlerea man and put a few quickfire questions to him!

Question time…

Danny answered his landline – and he answered any question I had too – displaying impressive memory.

When I told Danny I liked the photo of him umpiring at the Hyde last weekend, he informed me that he refereed four games earlier this week (in the St Paul’s School League, which he’s been organising every year since 1968). That was two games on Monday and two on Tuesday!

When he retired from An Post eighteen years ago, his great friends – the doctors at Kelly Henry Medi cal Centre – told him to keep doing what he’s doing (in terms of sport ing and community involvement) and he sticks to that approach to this day. Danny has no plans to slow down. He’s in good health and will celebrate his 84th birthday next Feb ruary. He remains very active in the community, including with the Cas tlerea Brass & Reed Band. What a Roscommon legend this man is!

PH: Danny, can you remember the very first GAA game you ever attended?

DB: Yes, it was the 1948 Connacht final between Galway and Mayo, played in St Coman’s Park. I went with my late father, Joseph (Joe). It ended in a draw.

PH: Can you remember the first game you ever refereed?

DB: It was in the Western Board Minor Championship, St Croan’s v St Mary’s in 1961.

PH: You’ve served in just about every GAA role…player, ref, administrator, coach…

DB: I’ve been coaching at juvenile level for decades. I was county minor selector from 1960 to 1980 and county senior selector from 1974 to ’85 (he was also U-21 selector, and had multiple roles with Castlerea and the county across all grades).

PH: Who’s the best player you’ve ever seen? Okay Danny, you can pick two…

DB: Oh dear! It’s hard to overlook our own Dermot Earley. I’d also have a great regard for Michael Donnellan of Galway. Going back further, I’d have to mention Sean Purcell (Galway) and Gerry O’Malley (Roscommon).

mon manager, one Mayo newspaper even went as far as reporting the appointment as fact (on its website).

Donaghy quickly put the ‘story’ to bed, tweeting that the online report was “ab solute rubbish”. He went on to say that he hadn’t spoken to anyone associated with Roscommon GAA.

Lest anyone think Donaghy doth protest too much – and that there was any basis to the rumours – Roscommon County Board chairperson Brian Carroll told a meeting later on Monday night that the new man ager “will not be Kieran Donaghy”.

Many GAA supporters are frustrated that a new appointment hasn’t yet been made, it being far from ideal that there’s

no manager in place at a point when the club championships have advanced well into their ‘business end’. The semi-finals take place this weekend.

At Monday night’s Board meeting, Mr. Carroll acknowledged it’s been a difficult process, but he was optimistic that an ap pointment is imminent.

The chairperson indicated he is hopeful that the selection process will be signifi cantly advanced over the next week.

“I’m happy that we have the option of a number of candidates that would be good enough, and I believe that by next week, the process should have advanced further”.

But it won’t be Kieran…

Occasional sporting musings with Paul Healy < PAUL HEALY

‘Brian was one of the greatest of all’ – Hayden

Glowing, heartfelt tributes have been paid to legendary Dublin midfielder Brian Mullins, who has sadly died at just 68 years of age. His death was announced on Friday last. Mullins, hailed as a ‘colossus’ of Gaelic football, won four All-Ireland titles, nine Leinster titles and two All Star awards – amongst other honours – during a highly distinguished career.

On Tuesday I called former Roscommon great Seamus Hayden to seek out his verdict on a player he faced on a number of occasions during a golden era for their respective counties.

While Mullins was forming an era-defining midfield partnership with Bernard Brogan, Hayden – who these days is co-proprietor of the Down the Hatch pub in Roscommon town – was ruling the centrefield roost for Roscommon alongside the one and only Dermot Earley.

Seamus Hayden: “Ah Brian was a great player. His partnership with Bernard Brogan was a very formidable one. Brian was big, strong and very athletic. You could say we were unlucky to have come up against them!

“Mullins held the middle. He was a great playmaker. He never really wasted a ball. If he needed to get forward (for a score) he could do that too. As for the physical side of things, in my experience he never went overboard. He was no harder than any of the other midfielders around”.

I asked Seamus about the 1979 All-Ireland semi-final in which Dublin edged Roscommon by a single point.

“We were very unlucky that day. We kicked a lot of ball into Paddy Cullen’s hands (the Dublin goalkeeper). Jimmy Keaveney missed that game but Michael Hickey came in and never put a foot wrong!”

Those of us who saw Mullins in his prime remember him as a wonderful high fielder, an inspirational leader, a great passer, a strong presence, a man who could score…simply a superb player.

Would Seamus Hayden place Mullins in the same category as Jack O’Shea, the man often described as the greatest midfielder of all time?

“I regard Brian very, very highly. He wasn’t quite the same type of player as Jack was, but I would certainly put him in the same league –he was inspirational, one of the greatest of all time”.

Seamus extended his sympathies to Brian’s grieving family and the entire Dublin GAA community.

Any word on a new manager yet?! Former Roscommon manager Anthony Cunningham was amongst the spectators at last weekend’s Roscommon IFC quarter-final between St Brigid’s and Éire Óg. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Danny Burke (83) on umpire duty last Saturday at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

IN THE FRAME

IFC last four confirmed

The Callington Ltd Intermediate Championship favourites St. Domi nic’s were comfortable winners against Creggs in Ballyforan last weekend. Dominic’s were always in control, and led by 0-9 to 0-4 at halftime.

Tomas Gilleran’s men continued to keep Creggs at arm’s length and vet eran Conor Fallon sealed the win for the Knockcroghery club in the 50th minute with a well-taken goal.

Fuerty were very impressive as

they put Castlerea to the sword in Rockfield. An early goal from Adam McDermott was cancelled out before half-time by an Aengus Lyons strike for Fuerty, who led by 1-7 to 1-3 at the halfway mark. Shortly after halftime, Mark Ward converted a penalty for Fuerty and a fisted goal from sub Tadhg Lyons saw them home by double scores in the end.

St. Croan’s were the easy win ners against St. Aidan’s. Malachy Gately’s men dominated from pil lar to post, leading by 2-8 to 0-3 at half-time with goals from Gerard

Connaughton and Dan Malone. Sub Damien Goggins weighed in with a goal and a point in the second half as Croan’s head to the semi-final in confident mood after a commanding display.

The most intense drama of the entire weekend was seen at Enfield where Éire Óg defeated St. Brigid’s after the sides had finished level after fulltime (0-13 each) and extra-time (0-17 each). There were 24 penalties taken before Liam Creaton scored the winner with his side finally getting through 9-8 after the shootout.

GAA in photos

Fuerty’s Eoin Ward pictured in action against Castlerea St Kevin’s during last weekend’s Roscommon IFC quarter-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

< SEAMUS DUKE

Determined duo Aengus Lyons and Cian Murray of Fuerty ended up in the net during this phase of play in last weekend’s Roscommon IFC quarter-final against Castlerea St Kevin’s. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

St Brigid’s John Cunningham reacts to missing his penalty in last weekend’s Roscommon IFC quarter-final against Éire Óg. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The

seal the deal: Liam Creaton of Éire Óg strikes the winning penalty in the shootout that decided last weekend’s Roscommon IFC quarter-final between St Brigid’s and Éire Óg. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

My ball! Jamesie Greene and Gavin Murphy pictured during last weekend’s Roscommon IFC quarter-final between St Brigid’s and Éire Óg in Enfield. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Action from last weekend’s Roscommon IFC quarter-final between St Croan’s and St Aidan’s in Creggs. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Ben-d of the road for Clann as O’Carroll brace fires Brigid’s into last four

Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC quarter-final St Brigid’s 2-12 Clann na nGael 1-12

< ELLIOT GREALY

St Brigid’s came into this Roscommon SFC quar ter-final unbeaten, and they remain so after winning this battle of the heavyweights at Dr Hyde Park on Saturday.

It was the men from Kiltoom who started brightest, talisman Ben O’Carroll finishing the ball to the net for the perfect start after just 45 seconds. O’Carroll then exchanged points with David McManus before Ultan Harney fired over a score after a great turno ver by Emmet Durney’s men.

It was a very cagey affair early on, Clann manag ing to frustrate their opponents and stop them from

using the severe breeze to any great advantage.

Robbie Dolan linked up well with Conor Gleeson to fire over another score. A patient St Brigid’s were dominant in midfield in the opening half. Shane Cunnane was excellent in claiming James Martin’s pinpoint kickouts. The inclusion of 18-year-old Bobby Nugent in the starting 15 turned out to be a good decision. He scored a sublime point as he judged the wind to perfection to raise the white flag.

Further scores from Ben O’Carroll and a fisted effort from Ciaran Sugrue meant that St. Brigid’s were the happier of the two sides going into the half-time break, despite having five wides in the first half. They led 1-6 to 0-4 at the interval.

It was déjà vu just seconds into the second half as Ben O’Carroll grabbed another goal, this one a penalty after a foul on Ciaran Sugrue. It put St Brig id’s firmly in control. Ciaran Lennon and Nugent exchanged points before Cathal Shine lit the game

up with an outstanding point after a brilliant team move. However, fine points from Eddie Nolan and Paul McGrath kept Clann at bay.

As the game moved towards its finale, St Brigid’s looked very comfortable, leading 2-11 to 0-8, but a contender for ‘Goal of the Year’ from Conor Farrell gave Clann a flicker of hope. Morale lifted, they con tinued to outscore St Brigid’s in those closing stages, claiming the last three points. However, St Brigid’s had done enough to advance to the semi-finals.

While big game experience certainly stood to St Brigid’s, kudos must go to their ‘young guns’, who really shone on Saturday. Shane Cunnane and Brian Stack played brilliantly, and teenager Bobby Nugent was on top form too. Once again Ben O’Carroll was the star of the show, scoring 2-2. St. Brigid’s: J. Martin; D. Sheehy, B. Stack, M. Daly; S. Trundle, P. McGrath (0-1), R. Stack; B. O’Hara Duggan, E. Nolan (0-1); C. Gleeson (0-

Cian the key as Boyle advance

next weekend after this drab and forget table encounter played at Dr Hyde Park last Sunday afternoon.

< SEAMUS DUKE

The result will show that Boyle, as ex pected, overcame Michael Glavey’s to advance to the semi-finals of the senior championship, but their manager Cian Smith will know that his charges will have to play a lot better than this if they are to trouble St Brigid’s in the semi-final

The outcome might have been differ ent had Andy Glennon’s penalty in the 47th minute found the Boyle net, instead of going over the crossbar. At that stage in the game Boyle led by three (1-8 to 0-8) and a Glavey’s goal would certainly have tested the pre-match favourites.

As it was, that mere point from the pen alty was the last score of the game from Michael Glavey’s and points from Cian McKeon (2) and Donie Smith in the final 10 minutes secured victory for Boyle.

The sides shared four points in the

opening 10 minutes of this game before Boyle scored a fortunate goal in the 12th minute. It came when the Glavey’s de fence failed to clear the ball, Cian Mc Keon pouncing to fire past goalkeeper Darren O’Malley.

Boyle were playing in fits and starts, with the likes of Daire Cregg and Do nie Smith struggling to make an impact, their main scoring threat carried by Cian McKeon. Glavey’s were struggling too, failing to score from play in that first half. Boyle led 1-6 to 0-4 at half-time.

With Caoileann Fitzmaurice and Shane O’Malley competing well in the middle of the field, Glavey’s stayed in conten

1), S. Cunnane (0-2, 2 frees), R. Dolan (0-1); B. O’Carroll (2-2, 1-0 pen, 1 m, 1 free), B. Nugent (02, 1 m), C. Sugrue (0-1). Subs: C. Hand (0-1) for D. Sheehy (half-time), P. Frost for C. Gleeson (halftime), D. Cunniffe for B. O’Hara Duggan (51 mins), B. Derwin for C. Sugrue (53 mins).

Clann na nGael: D. Finneran; T. Lennon, Feargal Lennon, S. Pettit; J. Connaughton, D. Summer, C. Duignan (0-1); D. McManus (0-1, 1 free) D. Pettit; Fearghus Lennon, E. Kenny, U. Harney (0-2); C. Farrell (1-2, 2 frees), C. Lennon (0-4, 0-3 frees), C. Shine (0-1). Subs: S. Henry for T. Lennon (37 mins), J. Lennon (0-1) for Fearghus Lennon (42 mins), O. O’Flaherty for D. McManus (44 mins), O. Lennon for J. Connaughton (53 mins).

Referee: Oliver Kelly.

Man of the Match Ben O’Carroll

tion and were just those three points be hind when Glennon was hauled down with 13 minutes to go. Unfortunately for Glavey’s, he lifted the spot-kick over the crossbar and with that his team’s come back hopes faded.

Boyle were best served on the day by Tadhg McKenna, Dylan East, Enda Smith, Evan McGrath and Cian Mc Keon. Andy Glennon was the main man for Glavey’s, and he was best sup ported by Caoileann Fitzmaurice, Shane O’Malley, James McDonagh and Dar ragh Heneghan.

Boyle: Robert Kearney; Luke Glennon, Conor Flanagan, Daniel Casey; Killian Cox, Tadhg McKenna, Dylan East (0-2, 1 mark); Roch Hanmore, Evan McGrath; Cathal Feely, Sean Purcell, Cian McKeon (1-6, 6 frees); Donie Smith (0-1), Enda Smith, Daire Cregg (0-2). Subs used: Colin Goldrick for Cox (22), Eden Kerins for Hanmore (57), Jack Moran for East (60).

Michael Glavey’s: Darren O’Malley; James Brennan (0-1), Conor Hussey, David Frayne; Colm Ruane, Stuart Daly, Neil Morris; Caoileann Fitzmaurice, Shane O’Malley; James McDonagh (01), Sean Burke, Dylan Ruane (0-1, free); Shane Fagan, Andrew Glennon (0-6, 4 frees, 1 pen, 1 mark), Darragh Heneghan. Subs used: Liam Cregg for Frayne (55), Conor Flynn for Fagan (58), Stephen Comer for Heneghan (59).

Referee: James Murray.

Man of the Match Cian McKeon (Boyle)

Action from last Saturday’s Roscommon SFC quarter-final between St Brigid’s and Clann na nGael, played at Dr Hyde Park. Photo: Mick McCormack

Action from Sunday’s Roscommon SFC quarter-final between Boyle and Michael Glavey’s at Dr Hyde Park. Photo: Mick McCormack

Hodson Bay

Boyle and Michael Glavey’s at Dr Hyde Park.

Photo: Mick McCormack

Minor title for Glavey’s-Éire Óg

Michael Glavey’s-Éire

Óg defeated Roscommon Gaels by 1-9 to 0-11 in the Division One MFC final at Enfield last Satur day. The Kevin McStaymanaged Gaels raced into a 0-6 to 0-1 lead during the first half, but by the half-time interval that gap was down to three points (0-6 to 0-3).

Michael Glavey’s-Éire Óg were much better in the second half although Rory Carthy’s excellent free-taking initially kept the Gaels ahead.

The breakthrough came with ten minutes to go when Robert Heneghan converted a penalty. The Gaels levelled the scores again but late points from Daniel Hagney (a ’45) and Oisin Kelly gave the amalgamated side a famous win.

Elphin are relegated

Elphin will play inter mediate football in 2023 after they were defeated by neighbours Tulsk in a tense SFC relegation play-off last Saturday. Tulsk started well and led by 0-8 to 0-2 at the interval. Aidan Mur ray fisted home a goal early in the second half to bring Elphin back into the game, but Tulsk kicked three late points to seal their place in the top ranks and send their neighbours down.

In the intermediate relegation play-off, Shannon Gaels survived when they had six points to spare against Clann na nGael’s second team at Ballyleague.

Junior semi-finals this weekend

The Roscommon Junior A Football Championship semi-finals will be played this weekend, with Bal linameen meeting St Ro nan’s and Padraig Pearses taking on Strokestown.

Pearses and Strokestown are in action on Saturday in Kiltoom (4.15 pm throw-in), while Ballina meen and St Ronan’s play in Croghan on Sunday (1 pm).

In last weekend’s quarter-finals, Pearses defeated St Michael’s, Strokestown won their local derby with Kil glass – there was just a point between the teams – Ballinameen overcame St Dominic’s, and St Ronan’s had six points to spare over Roscommon Gaels.

14-man Strokestown oust Oran with late goals

Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC quarter-final Strokestown 2-11 Oran 0-11

< SEAMUS DUKE

Down to fourteen players in the clos ing stages, Strokestown stunned Oran with two late goals to earn a place in the county semi-final following an en tertaining contest at Dr Hyde Park last Sunday.

Influential midfielder Cathal Compton had been shown a second yellow card by referee Paddy Neilan in the 12th minute of the second half, his dismissal coming at a point when the scores were level at 0-8 each. Given the nature of that setback, Strokestown appeared to be facing defeat.

However, Strokestown – remarkably –produced two goals in four minutes, to defy the odds. Ciarán Regan’s spectacu lar strike in the 54th minute is surely a candidate for goal of the championship, and it was followed by a well-taken goal by Diarmuid McGann in the 58th min ute, that double ensuring Strokestown advanced and that Oran’s championship was over.

On a perfect day weather-wise, Strokestown opened brightly, their di rect brand of football paying dividends.

Shane McGinley, Paddy Brogan, Colin Compton and Kevin Finn were promi nent as they moved 0-4 to 0-0 ahead by the 10th minute.

Oran eventually got a grip on proceed ings, finding their shooting boots and reducing the gap to a single point. Shane Walsh, Charlie Carthy, Tom Fetherston and Declan Leonard were key in provid ing impetus.

Strokestown then pulled away to lead by 0-6 to 0-3 by the 25th minute. Next it was Oran’s turn for a spell of domi nance, points from Shane Walsh (2), Cormac Regan and James Fitzpatrick putting Billy Donnellan’s side into a half-time lead, 0-7 to 0-6.

It was nip and tuck in the third quar ter. Cathal Compton received that red (a second yellow card) for a late challenge in the 43rd minute, but his Strokestown colleagues responded magnificently.

By the 54th minute, the teams were level at 0-10 apiece. That’s when Ci arán Regan produced an inspirational and memorable goal. Regan exchanged passes with Timmy Gibbons before fir ing an unstoppable shot past Paul Bran don. It was a fantastic goal which gave Strokestown great momentum.

Four minutes after Regan’s strike Diar muid McGann stole in behind the Oran cover before rounding Paul Brandon and putting the ball into an empty net. That second goal meant it was game, set and match to an impressive Strokestown team, who advance now to a semi-final with Roscommon Gaels. While Strokes town will go into that game as under dogs they will give themselves a great chance of making the final if they can play the kind of football they produced at times in this win over Oran.

Colm Neary, Paddy Brogan, Kevin Finn, Shane McGinley, Colin Compton and Diarmuid McGann were excellent for Strokestown, while for a disap pointing Oran side, Thomas Fetherston, Colin Walsh, Charlie Carthy and Shane Walsh were most prominent.

Strokestown: Niall Curley; Timmy Gib bons, Sean Mullooly, David Neary; Ci arán Regan (1-0), Colm Neary, Keith Murphy; Paddy Brogan (0-1), Cathal Compton (0-2); Kevin Finn, David Butler, Diarmuid McGann (1-3, 1 free); Shane McGinley (0-3, 1 free), Colin Compton (0-1), Cathal Lavin. Subs used: Mikey Kavanagh (0-1) for Lavin (55), Cathal Brogan for Regan (57), Luke Kelly for Murphy (60).

Oran: Paul Brandon; Mark Gunning, Thomas Featherston, Jack Casey; Cor mac Regan, Ciaran Walsh, Cathal Ken ny; Declan Leonard, Colm Earley; Ki eran Whyte (0-1), Darragh Walsh (0-2, 1 free,1 mark), Ciaran Lawless; Charlie Carthy (0-4, all frees), James Fitzpatrick (0-2), Shane Walsh (0-2). Subs used: Eoghan Grady for Earley (42), Mike Dwyer for Kenny (51), Paul Kenny for D Walsh (53), Michael Staunton for Fitzpatrick (58), Kevin Concannon for Regan (58).

Referee: Paddy Neilan.

Man of the Match Shane McGinley (Strokestown)

Action

Sunday’s Roscommon SFC quarter-final between Strokestown and Oran at Dr Hyde Park. Photo: Mick McCormack

Diarmuid McGann scores Strokestown’s second goal in their impressive win over Oran in last Sunday’s Roscommon SFC quarter-final at Dr Hyde Park. Photos: Mick McCormack

Gaels blow champions away with eye-catching display

Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC quarter-final ` Roscommon Gaels 1-11 Padraig Pearses 1-6

< ELLIOT GREALY

Roscommon Gaels dethroned the provincial and county champions Padraig Pearses in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday in what was a very notable success for Frankie Dolan’s team. It was all the more admirable as Pears es had developed a healthy lead early on, boosted by a Jack Tumulty goal in the opening minutes. This goal, along with points from Paul Carey and Hu bert Darcy, established a 1-2 to 0-0 lead for the pre-match favourites. It was a fantastic start for Pearses, but they were not to sustain it.

Instead, it was a fired up Roscom mon Gaels who kicked into gear and began to assert themselves as the half wore on. The Gaels brought impres sive intensity to this game, in contrast to a more subdued Pearses. Richard Hughes registered the Gaels’ first point of the afternoon, before the same player picked out the oncoming Kieran Kilcline to land a score from almost 50 metres out. Despite Kilcline having number three on his back, he wasn’t afraid to get forward and contribute to the attack.

Peter Gillooly then opened his account before Kilcline scored an other beautiful point. When Conor Daly stemmed the Gaels’ tide with a score, it was Pearses’ first in over 20 minutes. They led 1-3 to 0-5 at half-time.

The second half started with a flour ish. Richard Hughes eased through the Pearses defence before offload ing to Cian Connolly who ruthlessly found the back of the net to put the Gaels in front. Scottie Oates then extended the Gaels lead to three.

Mark Purcell and Paul Carey ex changed points before Tim Lambe

added a super score. Another Peter Gillooly point followed.

James Fetherstone made some fan tastic saves throughout the game, most notably when he denied Paul Carey with a tremendous stop. Pearses were also denied a goal mo ments later when Mark Healy was on the line to clear the danger.

The introduction of fresh legs for the Gaels meant they could com fortably hold onto possession and frustrate Pearses. The final stages were tense enough, but the Gaels prevailed for a tremendous win, knocking out the reigning Connacht champions. Roscommon Gaels cer tainly have momentum at this stage as they chase a first senior club title since 2004.

For the winners, Peter Gillooly was

very influential, the Gaels’ sharp shooter ending the game with 0-5. Richard Hughes was the conductor of numerous attacks, using his pace to find gaps in the Pearses defence.

Mark Purcell and Tim Lambe also excelled. Perhaps the stand-out per former was Kieran Kilcline who scored some sublime points in addi tion to his primary duty of stemming Pearses’ attacks.

Indeed the fact that the Gaels man aged to restrict Pearses to a mere 1-6 is a tribute to the entire team and was key to a great win for the town club.

Roscommon Gaels: J. Fetherstone; T. Lambe (0-1), K. Kilcline (0-3), C. Dineen; S. Oates (0-1), J. McManus, M. Healy; J. McDermott, M. Purcell (0-1); R. Hughes, C. Connolly (1-0), S. Lambe; P. Gillooly (0-5, 2 frees), R.

Walsh, D. O’Gara. Subs: B. Kelly for S. Lambe (45 mins), R. Conlon for R. Walsh (54 mins), C. McNamara for D. O’Gara (57 mins), J. O’Malley for S. Oates (60 mins), R. Gleeson for C. Dineen (63 mins).

Padraig Pearses: P. Whelan; M. Richardson, D. Farrell, L. Daly; C. Lohan, R. Daly, D. Murray; C. Daly (0-2), N. Daly; S. Carty, N. Carty, P. Carey (0-2); J. Tumulty (1-0), T. But ler, H. Darcy (0-2, 2 frees). Subs: C. Payne for C. Lohan (40 mins), E. Kelly for T. Butler (45 mins), D. Kenny for J. Tumulty (53 mins), J. Downey for S. Carty (53 mins), C. Harley for N. Carty (56 mins).

Referee: Dermot Lyons.

Cian Connolly scores a goal for Roscommon Gaels during their Roscommon SFC quarter-final win over Padraig Pearses at Dr Hyde Park last Saturday. Photo: Mick McCormack

Man of the Match Kieran Kilcline

Hold it right there! Action from Saturday’s Roscommon SFC quarter-final between Roscommon Gaels and Padraig Pearses, played at Dr Hyde Park. Photo: Mick McCormack

Action from Saturday’s Roscommon SFC quarter-final between Roscommon Gaels and Padraig Pearses, played at Dr Hyde Park. Photo: Mick McCormack

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