08 October 2021 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

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08 October 2021

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On the wrong track! < DAN DOONER

A number of local groups have expressed dismay following the unveiling of plans for the new €13 million iRos Sports Centre in Roscommon town. Athletics club Roscommon Harriers, and a local lawn bowling group, say the plans for the new facility on Roscommon Convent grounds have neglected their members. Chairperson of Roscommon Harriers, Frank Murphy, said local athletes were disappointed by the absence of a running track in the plans presented to members of Roscommon County Council by S3 Solutions Consultancy. “We are surprised that a track isn’t included in the plans. We honestly thought it was a given that it would be part of the facility. We had been looking for our own facilities before the Council told us about the plans for a new centre,” he said. Frank claims the club hadn’t been approached prior to the plans being made public. Continued on page 9

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DIGITAL HEIR I have a Facebook account and I wonder what would happen to my account if I died. I would like for my account to close immediately after my death. Also, I would not like my friends of family to see my name as a “suggested friend” after my death. Do I have to mention this in my will or how should it be dealt with? Please advise me. Most of us now have a Facebook account and the question of what happens our account after our death is something that we don’t often consider. Facebook however offer a number of options to users. Facebook now allows users choose someone who can manage their account after their death. Users can choose a “legacy contact” to post on their page after their death, respond to new friend requests and update their profile picture and cover photo. Alternatively, users can have their accounts deleted. Facebook advises that a legacy contact will not be able to see any of the user’s private messages. If users do not name a legacy contact, but do name a “digital heir” within their will, Facebook will designate that person as a legacy contact. Facebook will also ensure that the account of a user who has died will not appear as a “suggested friend” or in other ways which may upset the person’s loved ones. If the deceased did not select a legacy contact or digital heir then the named executor in a will or closest next-of-kin may contact Facebook and arrange for the account to be deactivated. A special request must be submitted to Facebook including a copy of the deceased person’s birth certificate, death certificate and proof of being the lawful representative of the deceased person, or his/her estate. Google also allow users to select digital heirs for its Gmail accounts and cloud storage.

People WATCHING With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

‘Will there be any savings? Well, they’re hoping it will save all the backbenchers!’ Well, did you see Bob? Huh? Bob Geldof, on the Late Late! There was a 70th birthday tribute show! Oh I heard it was on, but I couldn’t watch the Late Late on Friday night...I still haven’t recovered from the 2 Johnnies! What was it like? Amazing. The Boomtown Rats. Andrea Corr. Dave Fanning. Dave Fanning? Maybe it’s just as well I missed it, doesn’t sound that riveting, with respect! Just a love-in, I’m guessing? Oh no, there was some serious chat... there was one very considered exchange...quite emotional too... Well I did hear that Mannix Flynn and Mary Robinson were due to appear... No, not them! When Dustin introduced Zig and Zag... Oh for God’s sake! (They pause briefly to check what night the Late Late Show is repeated) Wow! Did you see the four guys doing their thing at Páirc Uí Chaoimh? Awesome! Huh? The four big names, the stars, the leaders...the... Hurlers? Are Cork back in training? No! It was the launch of... Is it Garth Brooks and his band? Did they fly in overnight? Is Garth starting off in Páirc Uí Chaoimh? NO! The four Irish lads. Did you not see the photos and footage of them on the pitch, launching... Is it a new boy band? NO! Micheál, Leo, Michael, Eamon! That’s not very catchy for a boy band... It’s not a boy band! Taoiseach! Tanaiste! Minister for Public Expendi-

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

ture and...eh...the Minister for Transport, Climate, Environment and Communications! Wow, sounds wild! It was serious stuff...they launched a new National Development Plan! (They pause briefly, to check what happened to the last National Development Plan) Quite a Plan! What’s it all about? Life? I often wonder...but it’s great to... NO! The National Development Plan! Oh that! Well it’s very important... Is it? Yes, for the survival of the Government! Go on...

It’s all about aspirations and projections and forecasts and visions. Okay... It will cost a few hundred billion... Will there be any savings? Well, they’re hoping it will save all the backbenchers! Is it ambitious? The backbenchers are! Will it create jobs? Yes, because the Government will need hundreds more spin doctors in the years ahead...when they have to start explaining all those missed targets! Is there a Plan B if it doesn’t work out? Yes...blame Brexit, the pandemic, the opposition, unforeseen circumstances, worldwide volatility...and the media! Both: Well let’s wish it well! (They pause to allow their growing cynicism to fade, replaced by cheerful thoughts and renewed promises to be more positive and generous of spirit) I gotta go...it’s Sunday, and I’m off to Athleague to see the hurling! Enjoy! Before I go...I checked online. The Late Late is repeated on Monday nights...have a look! Nah... Nah? But...the Bob Geldof tribute? Nah. Is it Dave Fanning? Is it Zig and Zag? Go on, have a look! Nah...it’s just...I don’t like Mondays. Eh...tell me why? Editor: Enough!

What we liked… The new National Development Plan, launched on Monday, commits to a number of positive and much-needed projects in the years ahead. Hopefully it will be delivered on.

What we didn’t like…

Ongoing reports that Ireland could be facing into a series of power cuts this winter are worrying.

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

What PEOPLE are talking about…

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

PIC OF THE WEEK: Marie Kelly pictured supporting Four Roads with her girls Abbey, Lauren and Chloe at Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Four Roads and Tremane. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The launch of a new National Development Plan; A six-hour Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp outage on Monday; Heavy rain and flooding forecast; Covid latest; Locally, Athleague and Tremane line up a County Hurling final derby; Amazing Mo Salah goal for Liverpool against Manchester City…

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Care Scheduling Teams Employee Health Plancare Scheme (money back Position is in Roscommon office the role is toCash scheduling calls to clients in the West of on procedures for you & spouse/partner and Ireland, strong administration, excellent computer, communication skills and office experience l A kind and empathetic children) 3-5 years essential. Experience in a busy office environment, industry related experience, QQI Employee discounts including tyre/car service, mobile phone & pharmacy discounts Level 5 in Health Care full award/nursing, social care degree would be an advantage. nature? RHS Home Care Cooperative Accounts Team Not for Profit est. 1996 l Full and part time positions in Roscommon. Must have accounts payroll experience, timesheet

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Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople newsbriefs Garden Club set to resume in 2022 The Roscommon Garden Club has had its gates firmly closed since our last meeting which was held on Monday, February 24th 2020 when we had a great talk given to us by David Kenny. However, that was a long time ago and due to the ongoing pandemic the gates will remain closed for the time being. We all want to get out and about but as many of our members are vulnerable we have decided to wait until the New Year before we have our next meeting. It is hoped the next meeting will take place on Monday, January 31st and further updates will be available nearer the time. We hope all our members are safe and well and we look forward to seeing you all next year.

Church gate collection for Roscommon United Football Club Roscommon United Football Club will hold its annual church gate collections this Saturday and Sunday at a number of local churches. Like many other local sports organisations, the club, which provides a valuable physical and social outlet for the local community, has been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. This weekend the club will hold collections at local churches including Sacred Heart, Roscommon (Saturday at 7 pm and Sunday at 9 and 11.30 am). Please support.

Roscommon projects reaffirmed in new €165bn National Development Plan < DAN DOONER

The Government’s new National Development Plan (NDP) was unveiled earlier this week and commits to a total investment of €165 billion in capital projects across Ireland over ten years until 2030. Welcoming the plan, Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said it would lead to balanced regional development. “The NDP is our plan for the future development of Ireland – it is investment

in our hospitals, residential units, our schools as well as roads, cycleways and public transport,” she said. “In Roscommon, we are seeing the development of the Rehabilitation Unit at Roscommon University Hospital. The 50-bed unit for the Sacred Heart Hospital and Care Home is at design and construction phase with close to a million euros allocated this year. “The N5 Ballagahaderreen to Scramogue road with an investment of

€200 million is one of three major road projects highlighted in the NDP for immediate progression and both Fine Gael councillor Liam Callaghan and I have been advocates for this project”. Senator Dolan highlighted projects such as the ‘Safe Routes to Schools’ programme, the development of the Galway to Athlone Cycleway and the Urban Regeneration Fund which she said were all key to the plan. “The supports for regen-

eration projects are key through the Urban Regeneration Fund which delivered a €9 million investment in Roscommon town. In Ballaghaderreen, a Public Realm Enhancement will (also) give such a boost to the local community,” she said. She added that a proposed increase in funding under Rural and Community Development would also be crucial to counties like Roscommon. “It is part of ‘Our Rural Future’ initiative and Rural

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…but local TDs are The Government’s National Development Plan has been met with much scepticism by local public representatives, who have described it as “not credible”, and containing a lack of serious commitments for much-needed infrastructure in the west. Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane said the plan was “the out-workings of a Government that couldn’t reach agreement so instead we have one for everyone in the audience”.

“The Western Rail Corridor, a key piece of infrastructure for the west, gets a brief mention but no commitment. It is kicked to a review. In fact, the word review appears 142 times in the 184-page plan – a review for almost every page,” she said. The Sinn Féin TD was equally unimpressed with plans for housing and healthcare: “There are 1,000 less social houses put forward compared to

the last plan. Hardly ambition. “On health, there is no funding set aside for the major capital needed to implement the Maternity Strategy. “It’s a pity we cannot put forward a plan that is deliverable rather than (one with) even more reviews and delays. We are hearing about Metro North (Link) for 20 years. At this rate, we’ll be hearing about it for another 20”. Independent TD Michael

Fitzmaurice said he was disappointed with a lack of serious commitments for infrastructure in the west of Ireland. “Given the fanfare surrounding the publication of this document and the level of funding outlined in it, it gives the impression of a child writing to Santa at Christmas – but I fear we may be left disappointed on Christmas morning when it comes to some projects,” he said. “The document outlined

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

DIAGNOSED

Regeneration Funding has funded developments such as An Bealach creative industries, inclusion projects and location for the Family Resource Centre in Ballaghaderreen. As well as the expansion of An Chistín Hub in Castlerea and the Digiwest Digital Working Hub in Tulsk,” she said. “Roscommon Leader Partnership has seen close

to €7 million invested between 2017 and 2021 in local projects for Tidy Towns, community groups and businesses across the county. The NDP will also include a fund to upgrade community centres”. Senator Dolan said the NDP will also create infrastructure to support remote working hubs and allow for flexible working hours

in light of the pandemic. “There is also priority funding for the roll-out of the National Broadband Plan to ensure broadband access for the intervention areas across the county. “A range of new funds for businesses has also been announced under the plan. The new Enterprise Green Transition Fund will help companies in Roscommon

invest in technologies to reduce carbon emissions, while the Digital Transition Fund will aid companies in embedding digitisation into their business models,” she added. In housing, the Fine Gael Senator said the plan would support the “largestever public housing programme in the history of the State”.

not convinced!

yet another review of how the Western Rail Corridor could revitalise the region. How many reviews and reports need to be compiled before action is taken? “Where are the commitments for the N26 or the extension of the M17 motorway beyond Tuam? “The time for reviews and reports has long passed. The people of rural Ireland need concrete commitments when it comes to crucial pieces

of infrastructure to improve connectivity in the region,” he said. Fellow Independent TD Denis Naughten said it was important the plan delivered “value for money”. “The plan sets out a spending programme of just over €500 to be spent ever single second this decade. The key question is will we get improved delivery for that investment?” The former Minister for the Environment, Climate

and Communications also said there was “very little detail” around plans to remove fossil fuels from home heating systems by the middle of the next decade. He also questioned commitments to fast-track the delivery of the National Broadband Plan, saying it was currently six months behind schedule. “Yes, there are some significant changes in the NDP like the decision to prioritise public transport

over road transport investment. But there is a failure to acknowledge that in most parts of Ireland, public transport means buses, and you cannot have a reliable bus service without decent roads,” he added. “While many aspects of this plan are very much a rehash of what was agreed in 2018, there seems to have been little thinking on how Government is going to deliver on what are very worthy objectives”.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Friday The Late Late Show’s 70th birthday tribute to Bob Geldof was enjoyable and certainly worthy, but it was also just a little bit strange. The greatly reduced studio audience, despite being made up of family, friends and associates of Geldof’s, didn’t exactly add much by way of atmosphere. Panellists Andrea Corr and Imelda May hadn’t anything very enlightening to say, but they did sparkle when joining Bob and the rest of the Boomtown Rats in song. Midge Ure was the ‘best guest’... gracious, generous and articulate. Three former UK Prime Ministers and two presidents of Ireland paid tribute to the musician/legendary campaigner who was of course the inspiration behind Live Aid. Why no message from the current Taoiseach, or a previous one? Surely this state isn’t still smarting from Geldof’s raw and ruthless depiction of us as a ‘banana republic’ all those years ago? Hardly! As for former President Mary Robinson (who was in studio) there was an awkward few moments when she suggested that Live Aid had a patronising element to it, only for Geldof, his ego clearly stung, to rather ungraciously reject that view. He could have let it pass, but then again, it’s Geldof. They kind of made up. What was really odd about the programme was its disjointed format, with anecdotes cut short and little of substance discussed. The lack of flow was so noticeable that I venture to suggest this may not have been quite as ‘live’ as we were led to believe, because I detected a touch of editing! All in all though, a pleasant enough programme and a fitting tribute to a remarkable man. And Bob and the lads can still belt out the hits!

Saturday Pedantic Corner (an occasional series): A brief promo on Shannonside – highlighting the station’s coverage of current affairs – features a clip of Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald accusing the

Mo Salah

Taoiseach of uttering “incoherent gibberish”. But surely if he’s talking gibberish, it’s already incoherent? Surely adding ‘incoherent’ contributes nothing of value to Mary Lou’s soundbite? (Micheál denies the charge). Next time: Has anyone ever actually ‘literally’ died laughing?

Sunday Mo Salah’s sensational goal for Liverpool against Manchester City today resonated with me in particular, as I scored a similar one many years ago. It was around 1982, and ten or twelve (maybe even eleven!) of us were having a kickaround in the church car park in Rooskey. Out of nowhere (just like Salah, who was lurking with his back to goal when he received the ball today, no danger seemingly imminent) I went on a run, past two ‘defenders’ and an indifferent dog. Approaching goal, and with one more teenage dreamer to beat, I suddenly noticed my right foot spinning the ball away from his hopeful lunge...I then somehow retained my balance and possession of the ball...kind of exactly the same move that Salah tried today. In

fairness to Salah, his finish was much more challenging than mine; he had to deal with an acute angle – mind you, that was his own fault because he really overdid the dribbling – while I just slotted the ball past the goalkeeper and between the two jackets which doubled as goalposts. I recall the last defender, the guy I’d embarrassed most, asking me where I’d discovered that foot-spinning-the-ball-followed-by-pirouette move, a query I chose not to answer. I went on to proceed to never repeat such brilliance during my junior soccer career. I am not for one moment suggesting that my goal was better than Salah’s, merely almost as good, or as good. In fairness to Mo, he was under a bit more pressure, with the thousands of spectators looking on, the worldwide audience on TV, the Premier League defenders and so on. Just to be clear, Salah is definitely very, very good. As for the young lads in Rooskey, we kept chasing our dreams, and wayward passes. From time to time we went back to play in the church car park, but the magic never returned. Nor did the dog.

Monday/Tuesday “Is everyone else’s Internet down?” I asked of anyone who might be listening in the office, as if we all have our own personal Internet. Every now and again it happens, i.e. ‘our’ Internet goes down for a few minutes, presumably under the weight of our robotic googling of both the trivial and the important. My own response tends to be an informed ‘we’ll give it a few minutes’. By mid-morning, I was still oblivious to the fact that the crisis extended beyond Abbey Street, to China and California and Downing Street and Dysart itself. ‘Our’ Internet actually did return after a few minutes, and we went about our work, not that we’re remotely dependent on the Googlemonster. Meanwhile, still unknown to me, the world was in a right panic because apparently Instagram and WhatsApp were down; worse still, and much to the relief of camera-shy cats everywhere, Facebook was off limits too. There was a worldwide outage. In New York, there were unconfirmed reports of a sighting of a man posting a letter, and there were wild rumours of humans talking to one

another (like really talking) all over the world. I should have known something was up. Out in Abbey Street, desolate farmers had abandoned their cars and were huddled at a corner (while sort of social distancing) sharing their anguish over the collapse of Insta. Meanwhile, two ashen-faced women chatted across the road about their fears that Facebook might never return. In truth, Abbey Street was like a scene from a sci-fi movie. Dozens of schoolchildren were wandering around with sheer shock on their faces, all of them clutching their impotent mobiles. One girl cried out ‘Hey, I think this thing has one power left, apparently it can make a phone call, all’s not lost’ – but nobody passed any heed on her. If anything, dirty looks. Down town, there were unconfirmed reports that customers in Rogue and the Comfy Café and in Gleeson’s too had become emotional when they realised they couldn’t share images of their breakfasts on social media. It was awful. I was going to email Mark Zuckerberg (once I’d googled his surname) but I thought better of it. He probably has more priorities than Abbey Street. Back in the office, the mood was a touch glum, but then again it was a Monday. By night, all seemed well with the world again. According to a no doubt disappointed Twitter, FB, Insta and WhatsApp were back. On Tuesday morning, two elderly but sprightly men met outside the butcher’s. “I didn’t see you in ages” one of the men said. “How’s life? We’ll have to meet up and chat...like old times”. Still, there was no denying the sheer relief in their eyes. They were both just happy to have survived the previous day’s social media wipeout, with all its accompanying trauma. “Meet up?” quipped the second man, “sure you can follow me on Insta, more details on Facebook!” They both laughed heartily, while in the background, having spotted that there was no smartphone in use, a shy but mischievous cat did its Riverdance impression along the paths of Abbey Street.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

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Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

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Maïa Dunphy @MaiaDunphy

The Late Show at its best, like tonight with our own Bob Geldof, is like storytelling around the nation’s fireside, with Ryan as the lead seanchaí. #LateLateShow

How would we all feel if this is actually Facebook gone forever? -Interesting question posed during Monday’s eh...crisis Tony Robinson @Tony_Robinson

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Our supply chains are breaking and we no longer have the flexibility to get them sorted. Presenters on Daytime TV are telling us which mouldy food we can eat safely. The army are delivering our petrol. No one could have foreseen all this, could they? Could they?

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-We chuckled at this wry comment tweeted during the Late Late Show as Sting (of The Police) paid his tribute to Sir Bob...

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The most important rule of adult life is: if you’re in the shop, always buy milk. -Always!

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I’ve just been to a Dublin pub where they sell FIFTY types of gin but they don’t sell Scotch. What kind of world have we created?

My husband purchased a world map and then gave me a dart and said, “Throw this and wherever it lands – that’s where I’m taking you when this pandemic ends.” Turns out, we’re spending two weeks behind the fridge.

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newsbriefs Ballaghaderreen Tidy Towns AGM Ballaghaderreen Tidy Towns will host its AGM at 8 pm on Monday, October 11th upstairs in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen. All welcome.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople newsbriefs HSE Living Well Programme The HSE are running a health programme free of charge for people living with a long-term health condition (mental and/ or physical). This programme helps people develop the skills and confidence to live a healthy and happy life. The new dates for this programme are Thursday, the 7th of October; Wednesday, the 13th of October; Tuesday, the 19th of October, and Monday, the 1st of November. For more information, or to book your place, please contact Olga on 086 6078950, or email olga.maguire@mayocil.ie.

Mass at Kileenan and Ardcarne Graveyards

Healthy and happy! Launch of library’s photography competition October is World Mental Health Month so why not get out and do a ‘5,000 Steps to Wellbeing Walk’ during the month! More information on www.mentalhealthireland. ie/5000-steps-to-wellbeingwalk/.

To celebrate World Mental Health Day on Sunday, October 10th, Roscommon Library Services are launching a Healthy Ireland at Your Library photography competition. All you have to do is send a photo of your favourite place to walk

in Co. Roscommon. Email your photo to roslib@ roscommoncoco.ie or drop into your local Roscommon Library branch, and you could be in with a chance of winning a Fitbit. Closing date for receipt of entries is October 31st.

Mass will be celebrated in Kileenan Graveyard, Knockvicar on Saturday, October 9th at 12 noon and in Ardcarne Graveyard on Sunday, 10th at 12 noon. A collection will be held in Ardcarne Graveyard. Proceeds of this collection will go towards the cost of lighting the church and graveyard.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL COMHAIRLE CHONTAE ROSCOMAIN

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 Roscommon County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to close the road referred to hereunder for the period and the reason specified. Road to be closed: L-7040-0 Lanesborough Street will be closed for 450 metres from N61/ N63 Lanesborough Road roundabout to the junction with L-7041-0 Mart Road. Alternative Routes: Traffic will be diverted via N61 Circular Road on to L-7041-0 Mart Road and vice versa. Period of Closure: From 25th of October 2021 to 10th of December 2021. Reason for Road Closure: Laying of sewers along the public road as part of the Roscommon Town Main Drainage Scheme. All necessary approach signage and diversion signage will be used at the required locations as per Traffic Management Plan. Residents will be contacted and notified directly by the Contractor in advance of the closure. Map showing proposed closure/diversions are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie Objections may be made in writing to the undersigned in respect of the proposed temporary road closure to arrive not later than 4.00 p.m. on Tuesday 12th October 2021. Water Services Section Roscommon County Council Aras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98 Signed: Caitlin Conneely, Acting Director of Services, Environment, Water Services, Governance & Corporate Affairs, Human Resources, Energy Management & Climate Change. Athlone MD Area Manager.

Ava Cuddy and Emma Connaughton pictured at Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Athleague and Padraig Pearses. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

newsbriefs Funding for local disability services Minister of State with responsibility for Disability Anne Rabbitte recently announced the latest tranche of successful applications to the €20 million Strengthening Disability Services Fund. The 35 projects approved total over €4.6 million in funding. Announced as part of Budget 2021, the one-off grants are being provided to reform disability services, build the capacity of disability organisations and to improve the quality of life of those who rely on these services. The initial series of funding was announced in February of this year. Locally, the Brothers of Charity Services, who have a base in Roscommon, will receive €872,260 under their ‘transforming lives’ project and refurbishment of fifteen homes. The County Roscommon Disability Support Group CLG will also receive €7,785 for capital works under this funding scheme. Local Fine Gael TD and Minister of State Frank Feighan has welcomed the funding for the local Roscommon service providers: “I wish to thank my colleague Minister Anne Rabbitte for including both organisations, who do some fantastic work for people with disabilities in the wider community around Roscommon. “I acknowledge the management and the boards of these organisations for forwarding good applications to government to ensure funding is delivered into our local community including the development of facilities, progressing wellbeing programmes, provision of counsellor/ psychotherapy services as well as other essential projects”.

Scramogue Ambush Centenary countdown ...the story of Brigadier Michael Dockery The Scramogue Ambush Centenary Committee have confirmed plans are in place to hold their centenary commemoration on the 101st anniversary (March 23rd, 2022). The event was due to take place this year but was deferred due to Covid-19. A memorial Celtic Cross will be erected on the site to mark this important historic milestone. In a recent edition, we revisited this dramatic era, and the build-up to the ambush, including the arrival in Roscommon of Sean Connolly and his subsequent death. Following the death of Sean Connolly, Brigadier Michael Dockery of the North Roscommon brigade called a conference to discuss ways of diverting attention off Longford and Leitrim, where enemy pressure was extremely heavy at the time. At the conference Dockery offered £50 for the purchase of arms to the Battalion that first submitted a feasible plan for attack on the enemy and then carried it out. He also promised to stage another ambush immediately after the first. Plans had already been formulated for the ambush at Scramogue some two miles east of Strokestown on the Longford to Strokestown road. Michael Dockery was captured at Cootehall, through treachery. The charge was murder and taking part in the Keadue ambush. He made a sensational escape from Boyle barracks

one month later. On the evening arranged for the escape a Lance Corporal McGlackin reputedly opened the padlocks on Dockery’s and Sean Glancy’s cells (in return for money). McGlackin was subsequently put under arrest and court-martialed but they failed to prove their charges against him and after spending some time in prison he was discharged from the army. Like Sean Connolly, Michael Dockery was an inspirational figure in volunteer circles. Brigadier Dockery was shot and killed inside the walls of Boyle workhouse in crossfire with the Anti-Treaty forces in July 1922. Tributes were paid to him from the Justices and Solicitors present at the District Court in Strokestown. The chairman said the late Brigadier Dockery played a great and noble part in the fight for freedom. The court in Strokestown was adjourned as a mark of respect. Michael Dockery fought the enemy in every major engagement in the country from 1916-1922 until he fell fatally wounded in July 1922. The dead patriot was held in the highest esteem by his comrades. That his memory may live on, a memorial was erected to the late Brigadier Dockery. * Anyone wishing to become involved in this important centenary project can contact nrcf12@gmail.com or Kieran Leavy property@kleavyauctioneer.com

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

New signage, road markings for Oran Road

New school campus for Roscommon town Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the announcement of a new eight-room primary school and the upgrading of Roscommon Community College as one campus, saying it was recognition by Government of the importance of educational facilities for Roscommon town and surrounding areas.

“As the only Government representative residing in Co. Roscommon, I am more than happy to support and promote this project,” he commented. “I was informed by Minister for Education Norma Foley and her officials late last weekend of this major step forward.

“I have been in contact with the Principal of Gaelscoil de hÍde and they are delighted with the progress. It is also wonderful news for Roscommon Community College. I understand Gaelscoil de hÍde have had some issues presently in relation to special needs education and I am endeavouring to sort this out”.

On the wrong track! Continued from page 1

“It might have been up online but nobody came to us to ask us for our input. At no time was I asked anyway,” he said. The Roscommon Harriers boast both an adult and a juvenile club and Frank says the new development is a “huge opportunity” for the county town to develop its first athletics track. “This is going to be a facility which is used by all the schools for P.E. and I would imagine running is part of that. Our adult club would have around 80 members while the juvenile club has around 100. There are also new clubs in Suck Valley and Lecarrow which are just fifteen minutes from here,” he said. Frank said adult members currently train on the roads around Roscommon and that the absence of facilities made it difficult to retain juvenile athletes. “We host a big event each year which brings a lot of people to Roscommon town (including international athletes) and we have a good number of

people training on evenings throughout the week. But because we don’t have the proper facilities we can’t retain the younger talented athletes,” he said. Frank said a review of the plans would allow for the development of a facility which would benefit young runners and aspiring athletes. Meanwhile, a lawn bowling group, which meets three times a week at Hawthorn Drive, has also called for a review of the plans, calling for the Council to include a lawn bowling green at the centre. Local lawn bowler Rosaleen McCourt said group members would be calling on Roscommon County Council to amend the current plans. “We currently meet at the all-weather pitch in Hawthorn Drive three mornings a week but we have no facilities and nowhere to store our equipment,” Rosaleen said. “We have approached Roscommon County Council in the past and Roscommon Sports Partnership and we received bowls from them. “We believe a lawn bowling pitch

should be included in the plan. There are very few activities for the over50s in Roscommon and we hope to have a meeting with the Council to add our proposal”. The lawn bowling group was established after an advertisement was placed in the Roscommon People and is proving popular with locals. Recent recruit Mary Joyce said members enjoyed meeting up for games. “I am really enjoying it. It’s a great laugh and it’s a way of socialising too,” she said. Other members say the outdoor games were vital throughout lockdown and that facilities would enable the group to grow in number. Addressing the current iRos Sports Centre plans, another member of the group, Mary Doyle, quoted from the Roscommon Age Friendly Strategy, which was published in 2016 by Roscommon County Council. “If you design for the young, you exclude the old but, if you design for the old, you include everyone,” she concluded.

New signage and road markings will be put in place on a stretch of the new N60 Oran Road later this month. It’s in response to the concerns of local residents, amidst fears that a serious accident could happen at any time along the route. Local Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott says the works will begin in about two weeks’ time,

and will be completed within a week. Cllr. McDermott says he was contacted by the TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) on Wednesday with an update in response to his representations on the matter. Cllr. McDermott: “I’ve been raising this issue for a number of months now. While everyone is delighted with the new stretch of

road, the fact is that the signage and road markings that have been in place are not adequate enough”. Cllr. McDermott said there were particular issues at two junctions between Roscommon and Ballymoe. There have been fears that a serious accident could occur due to vehicles overtaking. Cllr. McDermott: “When I raised this with the TII, they agreed to put cameras in and to conduct a survey. It meant they could see for themselves the extent of the problem. We weren’t in favour of bollards. Now I am happy to be in a position to confirm that the TII will be putting in new signage and road markings along the route to address the concerns that have arisen”. Confirming that the works should be completed in about three weeks from now, Cllr. McDermott thanked the TII and the relevant engineer for their understanding and cooperation. “This is a big breakthrough and a very positive development which will be welcomed by local residents and passing motorists alike” he concluded.

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Members of a local lawn bowling group pictured at Hawthorn Drive this week (left to right): Ronnie Lowry, Mary McDermott, Mary Raftery, Mary Doyle, Mary Judge and Rosaleen McCourt.

Local area office closure ‘a huge blow’ for Strokestown < DAN DOONER

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Joe Murphy, has said the closure of the local authority’s area office in Strokestown is a “huge blow” for the region which will have repercussions for local people. Cllr. Murphy also said he is not convinced that rural Ireland is ready yet for a ‘cashless society’. Speaking following last week’s announcement that the Council will close area offices in Strokestown, Ballaghaderreen and Castlerea to members of the public, the Fianna Fáil councillor said: “There’s no doubt that this is a huge blow for Strokestown. That connectivity between people and the local authority is very important and it works both ways. “The people of Strokestown have local knowledge of the area and so too do Council staff members working on the front desks of these offices. Technology is very good and it’s important but there is also a need for local face to face

connection and we have seen that over the past 18 months. It gives people reassurance in many cases. “I respect that it will still be a working office but the door will now be closed to the public. I’d never be for closures such as this”. Cllr. Murphy also questioned whether rural towns such as Strokestown were ready to focus primarily on online services and a move to a ‘cashless society’ and said much-mooted power blackouts would only place further pressure on technology used by local businesses. “They’re talking about power cuts which could cause a shutdown of (certain) technology. Even now, I’ve seen it in some businesses where the ‘tap’ facility sometimes doesn’t work due to connectivity issues. With the bank closed and the cash desk gone (local Bank of Ireland), people now have to go down the road to the local shop to use the ATM. I don’t know if we are ready for a move towards a cashless society just yet,” he said.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

The

D News page

‘Poetry in the Park’ at Lough Key Forest

Poetry in the Park, which takes place this Saturday afternoon at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park in Boyle is an opportunity for poets and poetry lovers in the Roscommon area to meet, share nature poems, and socialise. Meeting outside the visitor centre in Lough Key at 2 pm, there will be a short walk with stops along the way for the reading of nature poetry. Immediately after the walk (which will be about an hour), participants will take up residence at the outdoor café for refreshments (at your expense), some more poetry readings, and plenty of chat. You can bring along a nature poem that you have written, one you love, or you can come along with no poems in tow and simply enjoy the walk, poetry, and chat. Poetry in the Park is a new initiative, the inspiration for which arose out of three Heritage Week poetry and nature walks in Lough Key, Mote Park, and St. John’s Wood in August of this year. Organisers hope to make Poetry in the Park a regular event, possibly once a month, beginning in the spring of 2022. There is no charge for this event and neither is there a requirement to book. However, it would be helpful to have an idea in advance of the expected numbers, so please let Gerry Boland know if you’re coming along, either by email (roscwir@ gmail.com) or by phone (087-6397557). Gerry will also answer any queries you may have.

‘Dances for Inside and Outside’ at Roscommon Arts Centre

Irish Modern Dance Theatre will perform their new show ‘Dances for Inside and Outside’ at Roscommon Arts Centre on Tuesday next (October 12th) as part of a nationwide tour. This is a thrilling and fastmoving dance explosion of eight stunning dancers from Ireland, Nigeria, France, Poland and Ethiopia, unleashed in a live performance to celebrate life, athleticism and joy. A cycle of dances for our times, created by choreographer John Scott and the dancers of Irish Modern Dance Theatre: Diarmuid Armstrong,

Ashley Chen, Dylan Holly, Magdalena Hylak, Favour Odulsola, Rebecca Reilly, Sarah Ryan, and Roscommon based dancer and choreographer Mintesinot Wolde. Mintesinot is a recent Dancer in Residence at Roscommon Arts Centre where he choreographed and presented his new screen dance piece ‘See you in the Green’. He also performed in the recent Culture Night live event ‘At the Castle’. Dances for Inside and Outside is a coming together of vastly different, virtuosic dancers, searching for safe space and trying to be together. They are celebrating

ROAD SAFETY POSTER COMPETITION WINNERS HAVE BEEN ANNOUNCED!

Pictured at Áras an Chontae recently was Caoimhe White (St. Comán’s Wood NS, Roscommon), overall winner in the Road Safety Poster Competition. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

life and searching for joy, despite the limitations imposed by Covid-19. Dances for Inside and Outside was made using social distancing and the limits of bodies being together in a space as a movement inspiration. The work embodies what we have all been through and what our reality is now. There is a vital physicality and necessity in how the dancers interact together, mixing joy and fear and trying to be safe. Dances for Inside and Outside premiered online in 2020 and was subsequently shown at Philadelphia Dance Projects. John Scott is a Dublin born, choreographer, performer,

founder/Artistic Director of Irish Modern Dance Theatre, dancer from the Dance Festival and member of Aosdána. He recently collaborated with Pan Pan on Beckett’s ‘Quad’. John was awarded African Refugee Network’s Culture Award for his work with Refugees and Survivors of Torture. He has taught dance and choreography at Irish World Academy, University of Limerick, The Body in Performance, Drama Department, UCD, Drama Department NUIG, Drexel University, Philadelphia, University of Colorado at Boulder, USA and San Jose State University, CA, USA. Tickets for ‘Dances for Inside and Outside’ are available now from roscommonartscentre. ie and from box office on 0906625824

Results were recently announced for the Road Safety Poster Competition, a joint initiative between the Road Safety Office of Roscommon County Council and the Community Policing Unit of Roscommon Garda District. The aim of the competition is to promote and create awareness of road safety among primary school children. Overall, forty-two entries were received from 5th and 6th class students, representing twelve primary schools in the Roscommon Garda District. The presentation of prizes took place at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, on Thursday, the 9th of September.

Pictured at Áras an Chontae recently was Caitlín Kelly (Ballyforan NS), who took home the third prize in the Road Safety Poster Competition. Also pictured are Mairead McKeon-Moore (Road Safety Officer, Roscommon County Council), Shane Tiernan (Director of Services, Roscommon County Council), Anne Marie Kelly, Eugene Cummins (CEO, Roscommon County Council), Cllr. Joe Murphy (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council), Garda John O’Connor and Inspector David Cryan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at Áras an Chontae recently was Cara Harrington, who took home the fourth prize in the Road Safety Poster Competition. Also pictured are Mairead McKeon-Moore (Road Safety Officer, Roscommon County Council), Shane Tiernan (Director of Services, Roscommon County Council), Alan Harrington, Eugene Cummins (CEO, Roscommon County Council), Cllr. Joe Murphy (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council), Garda John O’Connor and Inspector David Cryan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Galway ‘thumber’ the last of a dying breed! Our man Frank on the dying art of ‘thumbing’, a mysterious bird of prey, the Turkish man who went to a forest to find himself, and the imminent return of the Creggs Harvest Festival… It’s Monday evening and I am coming home from Galway, a town I have visited twice in one week after not being there for a very long time. As they say about buses – you wait so long for one to come, then two of them come along together! Anyway, the road is a great place for seeing things and today two things caught my eye. The first was the number of cyclists out and about on a Monday morning. This in itself wasn’t of huge interest, but what grabbed my attention was the fact that three separate cyclists had no Hi-Viz gear on whatsoever. The weather was typical of October - one minute the sun was shining and the next it was dark,

grey, wet, and windy – and the three cyclists were all dressed in either grey or black. In truth, they were difficult enough to see. The main road to Galway is only middling at the best of times, so surely all cyclists should make sure they are as visible as possible. The number of cyclists who are involved in accidents seems to be increasing all the time, so it surprised me to see that even one of them would take to the road without any Hi-Viz gear. The second thing that caught my eye was a member of a species that I thought was almost extinct – a ‘thumber’. For the second week in a row, I saw a lad standing on the side of the road sticking out his thumb in what appeared to be a vain attempt to hitch a lift. Now I don’t think they were one and the same person, but considering that thumbing has become an almost forgotten art, it was great to see there are still some hardy souls out there prepared to keep an old habit alive. As someone who travelled the length and breadth of the country ‘on my thumb’, surviving several car crashes and an attempted armed robbery, I have always been sad

that thumbing has almost been outlawed. I was truly delighted to see two young lads revive an old tradition. Monday’s lad was so desperate that he was even trying to thumb a motorbike. Even in my worst predicament I don’t think I ever tried to hop on a two-wheeler. I did once take a spin with my cousin Leo on his Honda 50 nearly fifty years ago, fell off, and have never been on a motorcycle since! A huge improvement in Galway since my visit week before is the fact that the Headford Road roundabout, which used to be the stuff nightmares were made of, has been totally rejigged with new lanes and traffic lights. Thankfully it’s now a much simpler operation to get across and hit for the city centre. Speaking of strange sights, the other day in the garden we spotted a hawk perched on top of a garden lamp. I don’t know whether, like the thumber, they’re scarce or endangered species, but in any case we got a good picture of it. It seems to be either a red tailed hawk or a small buzzard, but whatever it is, it had been a long time since I had seen one of them.

As with a lot of things, hawks were a regular enough sight back when I was a young fellow, but numbers seem to have diminished down through the years. As such, it was exciting to see one sitting in our garden. We spent some time discussing the hawk’s dietary requirements, and no one was too sure as to what the bird of prey actually preys on. Some of the more dramatic members of our group believed the hawk could eat small dogs, while others thought they grabbed little birds, either in flight or while perched, and a few more said they hunt for worms and insects. Whatever they feed on, it was unusual to see one so up close – although we all agreed that, like a bad smell, it would be better if it was only passing through and moved on fairly quickly. It’s a few days now since its appearance, so hopefully it has moved on to pastures new. The little birds that we feed out in the garden can live in peace and quiet, without fear for their lives (at least not from the hawk, but maybe from the black cat that occasionally comes calling).

Readers have their say on dangerous celebrations A few weeks ago, I wrote about the very bad habit of young people hanging out of moving car windows while celebrating local sporting victories. I expressed my concern at the obvious dangers involved in such activities. Several readers contacted me to agree with my sentiments, and among the various messages was a letter from a ‘Concerned Parent’. I quote from part of their letter: “The people who allow this behaviour are totally irresponsible and should get a fine and points on their licence. I only hope it doesn’t come to the point where there is a serious accident before people realise the consequences”. I am fully aware that concerns expressed by me and others may not put an end to this very dangerous practice, but it may make some people question if that type of celebration is worth carrying on with.

Finally for this week ....

Beyhan Mutlu

Foto: Vaziyet/Twitter

Ladies’ garden talk a great success!

Turkish delight as Beyhan ‘finds himself’

Marie Barlow from the Glinsk Ladies Club tells me that last Saturday’s Gardening Course, given by Rod Ogilvie (RSO Landscape Design), was a wonderful success, and thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance. This year, the ladies club was again grant-aided by GRETB to do both a gardening and cookery course, and the cookery course with Marie Fitzmaurice will take place shortly - the grant is essential for the club, and they are most grateful for it every year. Last week they all met in Rod’s garden, and Marie tells me they learned so much about lawns, plants, leaf cuttings, root division, and stem cuttings, that I expect to see them partake in Bloom or the Chelsea Flower Show next year. Anyway, there’s another talk on Thursday, October 14th, this time in Barlow’s Organic Farm (F45 EH27) at Cloonfaughna, Glinsk at 12 noon, where the emphasis will be on fruit and vegetables and all are welcome.

We have all done stupid things while under the influence of alcohol (at least those of us who drink have), but it would be hard to beat the actions of fifty-year-old Turkish man Beyhan Mutlu, who last week spent several hours trying to find himself. That might sound hard to believe, but it’s true. Mr. Mutlu was at a party, and having got lost in the woods on his way home, was reported missing by his wife to the police, who organised a search party to look for him. He came across members of the search party and decided to help them find the ‘missing person’, obviously not knowing it was himself. He only realised he was the focus of the search when they called out his name. How-

ever, in a scene that could have come from Monty Python or Fawlty Towers, they didn’t believe Beyhan when he told them who he was, and the search party continued. It was only when his friend Mesut - who had been drinking with him earlier - saw him that the truth came out. Mutlu, who had spent several hours looking for himself, asked one of the rescuers, who was a policeman, not to punish him too harshly as his father would kill him. He was then returned rather sheepishly to his wife and family. In the modern world, when so many people spend thousands of euro in an effort to “find themselves”, this drunk Turkish man actually did – a true Turkish delight!

A little bird (not one of the ones I feed in the garden) tells me the great news that the Creggs Harvest Festival has been given the green light, and will take place, outdoors, over the October Bank Holiday weekend. As yet, I have no details, but all will be revealed shortly, and, all I can say, after so much heartache and heartbreak, is that it will be great to have it back. As an aside, I met my old friend Danny Burke, when himself, Paddy Duignan, Bill Kelly, and one more were umpiring the recent championship match between Creggs and Clann na nGael. We were bemoaning the fact that we still cannot sit at a bar counter and have a quiet pint. I’m not sure if all the restrictions will be lifted by the time the harvest festival rolls around, but if they are then I’ll have a stool ready and waiting for Danny, and we’ll finally have that pint of plain! Now I know it was only a deficit of a fiver, but when you rely on the Old Age Pension, a fiver is a fair bit. I, for one, feel the GAA could have left it there for the benefit of the few of us that are left who are still able to go to the games. ‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople Passion in Athleague on day of hurling heroics...

Tremane’s Gabriel Lynch pictured urging the team on during the Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Four Roads and Tremane. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Online LPT system not accessible to all – Naughten As people across the country start to receive letters regarding their Local Property Tax (LPT) liabilities, Independent TD Denis Naughten has reiterated his call for An Post to provide Government services for those who are unable to access online applications. “The letters arriving from Revenue in recent days in relation to LPT assessments state that returns must be done online through the Revenue website or through ROS or myAccount. People who are not digitally literate or who cannot access online services should be able to access this service through their local post office,” he said.

Claiming that the current LPT system will preclude many older people and those not digitally literate, Deputy Naughten said other options should be provided. “The failure to provide such a mechanism when the property tax was first introduced, even with a paper-based form, led to a situation where many older people were paying too much tax because they did not understand the valuation structure and this caused a lot of administration costs for Revenue, and unnecessary anxiety for older people after the original valuation,” he said. “This should not be al-

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lowed to happen again and the best way to do this is to ensure that older people, those without broadband or with poor literacy or digital literacy skills have an alternative route to update the LPT details though the local post office”. Highlighting recent Government figures which showed that 47 percent of adults were without basic digital skills, Deputy Naughten said: “Online does not work for nearly half our adult population and our citizens should not be excluded from using Government services simply because they cannot use technology,” he said.

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Services at Castlerea Community and Family Resource Centre on 086-4615537 for any of the above services. A new arts and crafts class for 4 to 7-yearolds takes place every Tuesday from 2.30 pm to 3.30 pm. For information on the new four-week course, ‘Post-Pregnancy and Me (How to care for yourself after birth)’, contact Martina on 086-1711394. The centre will also host an online ‘Mindful Garden’ programme for 6 to 12-year-olds from Saturday, October 16th. An online Baby and Toddler activity group takes place every Thursday at 11 am. Contact Martina on 086-1711394 for information on any of the above events.

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newsbriefs The Family drop in-clinic continues throughout the week by phone or appointment only at Castlerea Community and Family Resource Centre. This is a space for parents who want advice or support on any issues relating to their family. The Community drop-in clinic is open to all members of the community who need support with printing, photocopying, help filling out forms, etc. The clothes bank has been emptied and is available once again for donations. Donations help to raise funds towards the running costs of the centre. Contact Martina on 086-1711394 or Aisling

Athleague’s Club Secretary John Connolly pictured at the Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Athleague and Padraig Pearses. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

REGISTRATION • • • •

For Further Enquiries or to reserve your place please contact: Athlone Training Centre Contact: 090 6424200 • Email: daycourses.atc@lwetb.ie Next schedule date: November 2021

CONTACT DETAILS T

+ 353 (0)90 6424200

daycourses.atc@lwetb.ie

Many of LWETB’s Further Education and Training programmes are co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Has the Government turned a blind eye on our ‘hard knock’ lives? Winter is coming and, with it, a disruptive energy crisis leading to a crippling increase in our household utility bills; something we’re warned will lead to possible blackouts and brownouts right across the country. (In case any readers are like me and don’t know what a brownout is, apparently it’s a temporary reduction in the system’s voltage; put simply, a brownout happens when the lights flicker). I don’t know about you folks, but as someone who lives in a rural area, I’m wondering exactly what our Government, most especially Environment mouthpiece, sorry Minister Eamon Ryan is going to do about this issue – other than lecture us about the soaring demands on our sup-

ply over the winter months. I’ve no doubt readers will have seen a rise in their energy bills over the past few months. On a personal level, my own electricity bills have gone from what I’d deem to have been a normal amount, to now being barely manageable. In fact, they’re so high, I’m in grave danger of turning into a penny-pinching skinflint who’s only short of unscrewing the bulbs from their sockets! I’m exaggerating of course, but you get my drift; things are getting pretty scary. I do understand that, due to a relatively good summer, we weren’t using our heat or switching on our lights early, etc., meaning many of us may have missed the memo about

a power shortage and a massive cost increase. However, that’s not our fault, and it doesn’t diminish the fact our Government should have seen this predicament coming – and made contingency plans. Then again, perhaps Leo Varadkar believes that throwing out a few soundbites about how he’s ‘confident’ there’ll be no electricity blackouts this winter sufficiently addresses the overall issue. Let me tell you Leo, it doesn’t. Nor does it mitigate the fact that energy suppliers are charging us exorbitant and unfair fees to keep our home fires burning. Perhaps it’s a case that, while daydreaming in their state of privileged seclusion, our cash-rich leaders have

turned a blind eye on our ‘hard knock’ lives; totally overlooking the fact that a series of rising energy costs of this magnitude are unsustainable for most families; mine included. I’ve got no dependent minors and I am employed, yet I still dread the arrival of my bi-monthly ESB bill due to its ridiculously high costs. Therefore, I can only imagine the trauma these hikes are causing, (or are likely to cause), those whose livelihoods were impacted by Covid and who are now trying to plan for Christmas and pay for Santa; especially those already struggling to make ends meet. I mean, what do Leo, Eamon and Micheál expect us to

we’d have enough money to pay our own electricity bills. I’m not one to cause friction (shameful pun number two), but if an individual needs a team of outsiders to tell them how to do their job – one they secured through being elected by ‘the people’, (not this person) – then it’s time for them to consider a different career. Perhaps a call to your local education training board (ETB) is in order, Minister? Solution number two could have us collecting the monumental piles of drivel being spewed out on a daily basis by Mr. Ryan et al, harnessing it, and using it to generate the massive amounts of wind and gas needed to drive our power plants for all eternity. Problem solved…next!

May God bless you, Vicky Phelan: You’re some woman

We’re addicted to you FB, you’re a hard habit to break! Last Monday, Facebook’s outage meant that social media junkies were forced to have a real face-to-face conversation with another human being instead of spending an hour analysing selfies before posting them. Yep, due to what they’re calling a ‘faulty configuration change’ (is that code for ‘disgruntled employee’?) the social media giant’s services, including Instagram and WhatsApp, went down, meaning there were no food snaps, no cute puppy and kitty pics, and no head-tilt-perfect-pout posts from people who have...no lives! Given I know several people who spend their entire day posting pics of themselves, so much so they’re in danger of losing their face-to-face, real-life skills, I felt it was my duty to call them to check that they were okay. When I realised certain people couldn’t ‘log in’ every five minutes to check their notifications, update their status or see how many ‘likes’ their heavily edited, filtered, special-effects modified, rotated and re-sized ‘thigh-gap’ selfie had generated, I became alarmed. Yep, I know that’s very #ridiculous, #over-protective and #maternal of me; but I was genuinely concerned that a couple of my social media-addicted pals might be panicking that someone, somewhere, had forgotten what they looked like; so I rang to see how their withdrawal was going. Look folks, there’s only so many hours we can sit in front of a laptop/phone/tablet before we lose our minds, our souls, and damage our eyesight. As a writer, the lenses in my glasses are now so thick I look like Mr. Magoo; as in, I’m visually challenged, not an accident-prone little man! Perhaps it’s time for us all to detox and step away from that device – for a few hours at least!

do…spend our winter nights drinking a bottle of something strong, hunkering down and praying for daylight? It’s about time this trio realised that the onus is on them; meaning they’re a thousand per cent obligated to sort out this fizz-up, and quick! Being a bright spark myself, (sorry, terrible pun), I’ve come up with two solutions. One, why don’t taxpayers stop footing the bill for Eamon Ryan’s ridiculously expensive set of eight, yep eight, ‘special’ advisers! I mean, if we didn’t have to shell out a whopping ‘€729,669’ annually for a group of knowit-alls to tell the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications how to do his job, I’m certain

I was so sad to read that cancer campaigner Vicky Phelan has said she has returned home from the US to receive what she describes as ‘palliative chemotherapy’, following the results of a scan which shows she has ‘a number of new tumours’. Just to remind readers, Ms. Phelan is the extremely courageous lady who, back in 2018, publicly exposed the CervicalCheck screening scandal. Vicky was awarded a €2.5 million court settlement in a case she took against the US laboratory that carried out her own cervical smear test after she’d been diagnosed with terminal cancer following a ‘false negative’ result. This fearless lady, who, in her fight for justice both for herself and for every Irish woman who was failed by our nation’s na-

tional screening programme, has become a source of inspiration to us all. Indeed, her impact has been felt so strongly, it’s safe to say that Vicky has become both a role model and a leading advocate for health and wellbeing, not just for Irish women, but for women right across the globe. This lady, this mother, who, like Emma Mhic Mhathúna (RIP) and every other women at the core of the 221+ Patient Support Group (established to support women affected by the CervicalCheck Screening Programme), is a passionate and powerful force of nature. Named by the BBC as one of the ‘100 most influential women from around the world for 2018’, Vicky is (despite devas-

tatingly revealing she’s facing an uphill battle for her very life) characteristically showing not one iota of self-pity. Instead, this saint, this guardian angel, has done what she has always done, she’s thinking of others. By graciously acknowledging and thanking those who support her, who pray for her, and who send her positive messages, Vicky, in her hour of need, is still placing everyone else first. I wish this warrior, this lioness, this champion of women’s health and her family every single bit of hope and happiness and, while I know Vicky has the emotional courage to keep fighting, I pray she continues to have the physical strength to battle through. May God bless you Vicky, you’re some woman.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople newsbriefs Feighan welcomes funding for Sooey NS emergency works

Roscommon Herald

Sligo-Leitrim TD and local Minister of State, Frank Feighan has warmly welcomed funding announced by the Minister for Education Norma Foley to facilitate emergency works for Sooey NS, Boyle. The successful application will provide for Category 3 Mechanical and Electrical works. The exact amount of the grant is not released due to procurement rules. “This is good news for the community, hopefully some of this work can be done as soon as possible and hopefully there won’t be any major disruption to pupils in the classrooms. “In conclusion, I wish to congratulate the school principal and the board of management on their successful application,” he said.

Customer Correction Proof

Customer Name: RosFM sponsored walk later this month S DOYLE & SONS

Rep Contact Details:

Order No.: 857583 Young Athleague supporters pictured at the Kepakbeirne Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Athleague and Padraig Pearses on Sunday. Pic: Bernie Alan Copyline: business O’Farrell Date: 05/04/2021 | M 090- 6627377

Irish Water to start replacement of old water mains in Castlerea

Local community radio station RosFM will hold a sponsored walk on Saturday, October 30th in Roscommon town. The walk (approximately 6km) will commence from Casey’s Service Station at 11 am and will take place around the streets of Roscommon town. RosFM is staffed almost entirely by volunteers and recently 2060848 unveiled a new programme schedule which serves all sectors of the local community. All funds raised from the walk will go towards the running costs of the station. Sponsorship cards are now available from any staff member Irish Water, in partnership 05/10/2021 at RosFM or donations can be made via a GoFundMe page with Roscommon County which can be found on the RosFM website or Facebook page. Council, are set to comIf you feel like some exercise on Saturday, October 30th, you 30/11/2021 mence the replacement can join us and support a great local cause. of old water mains in the For further details, contact Bernie Kearney or Seamus9Duke Castlerea area in the comat RosFM. ing days. The works will involve the replacement of almost 300 metres of water mains Gospel Reflection in Willsbrook, Castlerea, an area prone to a high level of leakage, with new, Sunday October 10th 2021 high density polyethylene (plastic) pipes. The rich young man in today’ s Gospel wants to know what Roscommon Herald Irish Water say the works we all want to know – how to live in this life so that we along the N60 will not might live forever in the world to come. He seeks what only prevent the loss of treated water underground today’s Psalm calls “wisdom of heart”. but will also reduce the inHe learns that the wisdom he seeks is not a programme stances of burst pipes and of works to be performed or behaviours to be avoided. As water outages and will enJesus tells him, observing the commandments is essential sure a reliable water sup-

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to walking the path of salvation – but it can only get us so far. The Wisdom of God is not precepts, but a person – Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Wisdom whose Spirit was granted to Solomon in today’s First Reading. Jesus is the Word of God spoken of in today’s Epistle. And Jesus, as He reveals Himself to the rich man today, is God. In Jesus we encounter Wisdom, the living and effective Word of God. As He does with the rich man today, He looks upon each of us with love. That look of love, that loving gaze, is a personal invitation – to give up everything to follow Him. Nothing is concealed from His gaze, as we hear in the Epistle. In His fiery eyes, the thoughts of our hearts are exposed, and each of us must render an account of our lives (see Revelation 1:14). We must have the attitude of Solomon, preferring Wisdom to all else, loving Him more than even life itself. This preference, this love, requires a leap of faith. We will be persecuted for this faith, Jesus tells His disciples today. But we must trust in His promise that all good things will come to us in His Company. What, then, are the “many possessions” that keep us from giving ourselves totally to God? What are we clinging to – material things, comfort zones, relationships? What will it take for us to live fully for Christ’s sake and the sake of the Gospel? Let us pray for the wisdom to enter into the kingdom of God. With the Psalmist, let us ask Him, “teach us”.

- Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church).

alan.beirne@roscommonherald.com

ply into the future. mon remains a vital focus New water service con- for Irish Water and these nections, from the public essential works will help water main to custom- strengthen and reinforce ers’ boundaries, will be the water network”. installed and where the Fianna Fáil Senator Euexisting service connec- gene Murphy said the tions outside boundaries works would “greatly imare lead, they too will be prove” the reliability of replaced. proper water supply and Detailing the works, Irish would be beneficial in the Water’s National Leakage long-term. Reduction Programme He also stated that the Regional Lead, Declan Government, and particuCawley said: “There will larly Minister Darragh Home,Interiors,DIY be an immediate im- O’Brien, had ensured mapact for customers with jor funding for Irish Water an improvement to the so that such works could water supply due to re- be carried out across the duced leakage rates and country. unplanned outages when Farrans Construction Ltd, bursts occur. Securing working on behalf of Irish water supply in Roscom- Water, will carry out the

Class:

Colour: 4C (CMYK) works, which are due to be completed in November. In order to progress the works, short-term outages may be required but to

minimise impact on customers, notice of outages will be given and areas of work will be limited to short sections.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Access means everything to people with disability I’m going to start this week’s column with a confession. I’m owning up to a major admission of fact – it’s something I am finally going to come clean about. Here goes: I have been driving as a provisional license holder and a full licence holder on the roads of Roscommon for over 35 years, and in that period I have parked on the kerb of a footpath on several occasions – and more than often blocked the access way for a wheelchair user and a fair share of pedestrians with buggies, shopping trolleys and mobility issues too. I’m not proud of it. There’s always a very ‘good’ excuse available for this sort of behaviour. I’ve had my share of 5-star ones over the years: the notion that I was just stopping outside the shop for five minutes, maybe had a load to bring in from the car and wanted to get nearest to the door, I was in a hurry, it was an emergency, or I was merely waiting to pick up somebody and didn’t even get out of the vehicle. These all come to mind, but the hard fact remains that a person in a wheelchair could not physically get past me and travel down the footpath when I was parked there – and I was the only person responsible for blocking their route, interfering with their constitutional rights and, much more seriously, putting them into a really dangerous situation if they had to try and go out on the main road to get around my car and travel onwards on their journey. Many of us are guilty at some stage in our life of engaging in this type of behaviour. I know better than most that sometimes it REALLY is an emergency that led to this sort of blocking and obstructing. I’m afraid that doesn’t take away from the fact that we have still managed to frustrate and annoy another human being, and sometimes even put their lives at risk. It was on ‘MAKE WAY DAY’ this year that I got my first real insight into how the person in the wheelchair or pushing the buggy really feels when they come across an obstacle like this. The Disability Federation of Ireland runs this annual awareness day campaign in which they call on people with a disability or anyone else in the community to come forward and take a tour of their local area with their phone or camera on hand. They’re invited to post a photo on social media if they encounter a problem. This is to ensure that we can all get a little reminder of how simple it is to cause upset or block someone’s way. On the morning of the event I was lucky to be with Helen, Dorothy and John and other members of the newly-formed Access For All Roscommon group as they took a short wander around the streets of Roscommon town, noting the sort of things that cause them problems. By the way, it’s not just the cars parking on the footpath either. For example, an overgrown hedge coming out onto a footpath is an example of an obstruction that the rest of us pedestrians may not notice. We

By arranging for the bow of the boat (the front bit) to lower down like the doors of a little car ferry, the wheelchair user can simply roll on and off the vessel by the ramp on their own strength, and thereby gain entrance to the vessel in a smooth and stress-free manoeuvre. Photo: Mick McCormack

can all swerve neatly around the hedge, but if you’re in a chair on a tight footpath and there’s a nasty looking thorny hedge and a few briars sticking out – and in your way – it’s not much fun. It’s an obstruction. The presence of wheelie bins – big and small – on a street or path on ‘Bin day’ can be another serious pain in the ass for a wheelchair user, and the absence of a very basic ramp to allow somebody even get up onto a footpath as they cross the street is another frustration that we encountered on our tour. The development of outdoor seating and other attractions during the Covid-19 lockdown period has not been a particularly welcome one for people with disability. Seats, tables and billboards can be among the worst ‘offenders’, and while I know everybody has to make a living and these were exceptionally challenging times for traders, there really can be no excuse for blocking somebody’s way. Since I became part of a small group, set up to establish the Lough Ree Access For All Boat in 2018/2019, my own personal awareness of the plight of people with disability has come on greatly. We devised the idea for the boat from our own knowledge that from time to time when fishing excursions and sightseeing boat trips were leaving the marina or quayside in Ballyleague, people in wheelchairs were simply left behind. Modern-day luxury cruisers and the good old-fashioned lake boat of the Shannon have one thing in common – as designed, they do not make it even remotely convenient to get a person in a wheelchair on board. You can, of course, try to lift or hoist the person in the chair up and over into the boat, but this is simply not acceptable to a person with disability. In one fell swoop, you have taken away their independence. Most of the time, it’s neither safe or com-

A family from Roscommon on board the Lough Ree Access For All boat during the summer. The service is still running daily from the quayside at Ballyleague.

fortable either. Therefore, Alan Broderick and myself teamed up with Alan Farrell and Philip Gordon in Ballyleague and began searching for an internationally based design solution to this inequality conundrum. The result of our endeavours over a three-year period was the successful design and manufacture of the new award-winning Lough Ree Access For All boat. Roscommon LEADER Partnership backed the project to the hilt with EU funding. DPD Ireland rowed in with support, and then Waterways Ireland, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Roscommon County Council and the Sliabh Bawn community Funds also ensured it would actually happen. This support, along with the hard work of volunteers, meant it became a reality. At this stage I’m sure many of you have seen it on TV on the National Lottery ad. The concept is simple – by arranging for the bow of the boat

“

We devised the idea for the boat from our own knowledge that from time to time when fishing excursions and sightseeing boat trips were leaving the marina or quayside in Ballyleague, people in wheelchairs were simply left behind.

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

(the front bit) to lower down like the doors of a little car ferry, the wheelchair user can simply roll on and off the vessel by the ramp on their own strength, and thereby gain entrance to the vessel in a smooth and stress-free manoeuvre. The new service has been an immediate hit with not just wheelchair users but also with lots of people with mobility issues and mums and dads with buggies and prams. I am very proud to say we have successfully carried over 1000 people with disability, and other 2000 able-bodied passengers, since the service began in early June this year. The people who came on board the boat have come from every corner of the country as this is now very much a national service. I have chatted with people from Cork, Kerry, Donegal, Dún Laoghaire, Waterford and Armagh at the quayside in Ballyleague this summer, and it’s when you start to read the boat trip reviews afterwards that you get a real sense of the sheer joy that this new independent access is bringing. It’s the freedom to be the same as everyone else when boarding...that’s really the only thing that most people with disability want – EQUALITY. So the next time you pull over to park beside a footpath, perhaps remember the message of MAKE WAY DAY – remember that, no matter how important your mission is, the person in the wheelchair may also be in just as much of a hurry as you – and you are about to block their access. MAKE WAY PLEASE. Footnote: You can book your place on board the Lough Ree Access For All Boat until the end of November as it is still sailing daily. There’s a special offer for secondary school students at the moment. Visit www.loughreeboattrips.com.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

‘If you have a healthcare qualification, we need your help’ – Senator’s plea 651 families on Home Help waiting list in west Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan has called for immediate action for 651 families currently on Home Help hours waiting lists in the west. Raising the issue in the Seanad on Thursday last, Senator Dolan said she was “shocked” at the figure which was revealed by Minister of State at the Department of Heath Mary Butler. “These families have all applied and been approved for HSE Home Care hours, however no

help is coming – it is a crisis. We have a budget in place however there are huge challenges with staff shortages and recruitment,” she said. Describing the current situation as “devastating” for families, the Ballinasloe-based Senator said action needs to be taken in the coming months. A new Home Support Pilot scheme at four sites throughout the country is expected to be fully operational by November 1st but Senator Dolan called

on carers to return to the workforce to alleviate the situation. “If you have a healthcare qualification, we need your help. Community Healthcare West have indicated that they will be running recruitment campaigns, however we also need international campaigns to attract qualified professionals to work here. Courses are also available throughout Galway Roscommon Education Training Board (GRETB) for a QQI

Level 5 in Healthcare (2 years). “We need all stakeholders including the HSE, the Community Healthcare West team and private home help providers along with the Minister of State with responsibility for Older People, to drive recruitment campaigns both here in Ireland and abroad for healthcare assistants and to promote mileage incentives to support travelling in rural areas for work,” she concluded.

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan pictured with Minister of State at the Department of Health Mary Butler at Leinster House.

newsbriefs 14 energy efficiency projects approved Funding has been allocated for 14 different projects in Roscommon and east Galway under the Community Energy Grant Scheme for energy efficient upgrades to homes, businesses and community buildings. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) have awarded grants to projects in Ballaghaderreen, Ballinasloe, Castlerea, Dunmore, Glenamaddy, Roscommon and Monksland as well as the retrofitting of homes of older people, families and people with a disability across the area. The projects are aimed at improving quality of life and reducing operating costs. Local TD Denis Naughten welcomed the announcement and said homes would be upgraded at an average cost of €17,000. “The homes will be upgraded through improved insulation, heating, lighting, window and floor upgrades which will reduce energy bills and make these homes more comfortable and healthier,” he said. “Not only does this investment reduce electricity and oil bills but it makes local businesses more viable, helps community groups keep their doors open and ensures the homes of families in fuel poverty are more comfortable and healthier to live in”.

Delighted with Tremane’s win: Tom Daly, Anthony Mahony, Darren Daly, Sharon Cavanagh and Adrian Daly pictured celebrating Tremane’s win in Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final in Athleague. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Crosby calls for rise in fuel allowance Independent councillor Tom Crosby has this week called for a “significant rise” in the fuel allowance in the upcoming Budget, as energy companies warn of major price hikes in the coming weeks and months. Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Cllr. Crosby said he was aware of “a number of families who are struggling with household bills”, and was “very concerned” about the potential impact of increasing utility bills on lowincome households as we head into a difficult winter. According to the CSO’s Consumer Price Index, the prices of gas, fuel and electricity in Ireland have increased by 19.6 per cent in the last year, with rising energy costs around Europe, coupled with pressure on supply, pushing up electricity prices. This means that households could see their bills increase by an extra €500 annually. “At present, the fuel allowance is €28 per week for 28 weeks, but with rising costs and the price of fuel set to rise substantially, I am calling for a significant rise in this payment in the household benefits package during this very difficult year,” Cllr. Crosby said this week. “Many elderly people in particular are living in inadequate and unsatisfactory conditions and struggling to heat their homes, as are big families, and no one deserves to live in such an unhealthy environment,” continued Cllr. Crosby. “I am appealing to the Minister for Finance to listen to the people of Ireland and do the right thing on Budget day next month – now is the time for action, not words,” he concluded.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

Lecarrow Benevolent

New university opens in Athlone...

Ireland’s first trans-regional university, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands and Midwest, officially opened its doors on Friday, October 1st.

Catering for a student population of 14,000 and staff of 2,000, TUS spans six campuses in Athlone, Limerick, Clonmel, Ennis and Thurles. Minister of State for

Skills and Further Education Niall Collins and inaugural TUS President, Professor Vincent Cunnane, were among the keynote speakers for the ceremony.

TUS comprises a student population of more than 14,000 and a staff of approximately 2,000 people working fulltime and part-time across six campuses in Athlone, Limerick, Clonmel, Ennis and Thurles.Pictured at the official opening was Minister of State with responsibility for Skills and Further Education at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Niall Collins TD with President of TUS Professor Vincent Cunnane and students.

Roscommon Credit Union hosts Member Appreciation Day On Thursday, October 21st, Roscommon Credit Union will join credit union members around the world to celebrate the 73rd International Credit Union Day. The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Building financial health for a brighter tomorrow’, captures the essence of credit unions. Bernie Moran (CEO of Roscommon Credit Union) explains: “Our members and community are our backbone, and we are so proud here at Roscommon Credit Union Ltd of the part we play in sustaining that community. “We believe Roscommon Credit Union makes a real, positive impact on the lives of people in the Roscommon area. We look forward to celebrating with our members, and indeed the whole community, on ICU Day”. To thank our members for their continued support and loyalty, Roscommon Credit Union are hosting a Member Appreciation Day on Thursday, October 21st, 2021. Events include a guided historical tour of Roscommon town by Albert Siggins. The tour promises to bring participants on an interesting, fun, and in-

formative journey of local landmarks, streets, and local people of interest! The tour commences at 10 am from our office on Abbey Street, and lasts approximately an hour. Places are limited, so early booking is advised. There will also be an autumnal and winter container planting demonstration with gardening experts, Ardcarne Garden Centre, which promises to inject some colour into your garden pots. This event is open to Members of Roscommon Credit Union, commencing at 11 am for approximately an hour. Places are limited, so booking is essential. Are you planning on painting a room or your entire house this winter, but not sure what colours to choose? we have partnered with Dulux Ireland to offer our members and local community free online colour consultations on the day! Dulux’s colour expert Amanda Daunt, will be online via our Facebook

page from 11 am to 3 pm to answer all your colour queries. This event is open to members and the local community, no booking required. We are encouraging our followers to submit their colour-related queries with images to Amanda on the day via our Facebook page. To get our members and local community moving, feeling relaxed and ready to take on the world, we have teamed up with Goretti Dwyer, physical therapist (CORU registered) and pilates instructor of PilatesNow.ie to offer not one but two free online Pilates classes! PILATES 101 is for anyone new to movement, returning to movement, recovering from injury or back pain. If you prefer a gentler introduction to the wonderful world of Pilates, Goretti has designed a 15-minute class incorporating stretching, breathing techniques and relaxation, perfect if you are

sitting at a desk all day! Pilates classes are online and available to Members and the local community from Thursday, Octover 21st, to Sunday October 24th, 2021. Places must be booked in advance, to book please call us on 090 6626657, email info@roscommoncu.ie. We will also be joined on the day by Sinéad Neilan of Liddy Neilan Solicitors for a Facebook live ‘Q&A’ on all things to do with writing a will. This event is open to members and the local community, no booking required. Members who visit our branch offices on International Credit Union Day will also be entered into a draw to WIN a luxury hamper. RosFM will broadcast live on the day from outside our Roscommon office, bringing our members and local community music, interviews, chat, etc. All events are free, but participants must register/ book to access events on the day. To register/book your place at any of our events, simply call 090 6626657, or email info@roscommoncu.ie. For further details please visit our website, roscommoncu.ie.

Mini-auction in aid of the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund As the country continues to reopen, and the charity celebrates 20 years in existence, the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund will host a fundraising mini-auction in Coffey’s Pub in Lecarrow at Sunday, October 10th. The auction is due to commence at 4.30 pm. A wide selection of items will go under the hammer to support the local charity which has raised enormous sums for local causes over the past 20 years. The fund has assisted many local residents and organisations over the years, and has distributed

around €350,000 since its inception. Lots in Sunday’s auction include a two-night stay and one evening meal at the Galway Bay Hotel, bed & breakfast in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel, Athlone with an evening meal for two, a Waldron’s Meats hamper, and twenty tonnes of gravel. Other items include a 8x4 trailer of turf, bales of straw, two days of stone wall building, a car service and a €100 voucher for Radiant Beauty and Body Clinic. Chairperson of the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund,

Billy Kelly, said the charity, like many others, had been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. “We plan to hold our usual fundraiser on the June Bank Holiday weekend next year. “We have had two years without any fundraising activities due to the pandemic,” he said. “This means that our funds have been depleted so the auction on Saturday will allow us to meet any needs until the major fundraiser in 2022”. For enquiries, contact Billy Kelly on 0860588610.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

Fund celebrates 20th anniversary

Coffey’s

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Flashback to 2017: Members of Lecarrow Benevolent Fund at the crib in Lecarrow. Pictured were MJ O’Connor, Martin Dolan, Samuel Wark, Marguerite Wark, Sarah Coffey, Billy Kelly, Carol Kelly, Kitty Kelly, Monica Beegan, James Coffey, Patsy Beades, Gerry Grady and Courtney Kelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Supporters and sponsors thanked

From 2017: Billy Kelly, Lecarrow Benevolent Fund, pictured presenting LeapPads to Marian Dolan who accepted on behalf of Funds for St. Teresa’s Children’s Ward in Portiuncula Hospital. Picture: Andrew Fox

Billy Kelly, chairperson of the Lec arrow Benevolent Fund, has thanked the fund ’s many supporters and sponsors, including the Coffey family, for all their support over the group’s first 20 years! Mr. Kelly said that most of the mon ey raised by the charity’s fundraising activitie s went back into the local community. Mr. Kelly also paid tribute to former and current members and said new members are always welcome and any applications to the fund are treated in the strictest confidence.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

Ballyforan Fair&Festival

Saturday 16th October

Best wishes to Ballyforan Fair and Festival from Serving South Roscommon & East Galway area

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SLYMAN Plant Hire & Groundworks Conor: 087 7726301 Michael: 087 2490146 Best wishes to Ballyforan Fair & Festival from

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Pictured are members of the hard-working Ballyforan Fair and Show committee. The show returns on Saturday, October 16th.

Ballyforan Fair and Show returns on Saturday, October 16th! Excitement is building in Ballyforan as it has been confirmed that the town’s very popular Fair and Festival is set to make a welcome return on Saturday, October 16th following the Covid-19 pandemic. According to organisers, this year’s show will be a “slimmeddown” version of the event due to Covid-19 restrictions but will still feature some of the usual old favourites including Horses, Sheep, Poultry, and a Dog Show. The Sheep Show will include classes such as ‘Best White Ram’, ‘Best Texel Ram’, ‘Overall Ram of the Fair’, ‘Young Handler’ and ‘Best Pet Lamb’ and judging will commence at 10.30 am on the day with the presentation of prizes taking place at 11 am. The Horse Show boasts nine classes this year and ‘Best in Show’ and classes include ‘Best Pony’, ‘Best Sport Horse’, ‘Best Donkey’, and ‘Best Mare and Foal’. All animals must be haltered for the event and led in hand. Judging commences at 11 am and presentation of prizes at 11.30 am.

Poultry Classes include ‘Most Unusual Bird’, ‘Champion Large Fowl’, ‘Champion Eggs’, and ‘Supreme Champion’ and entries close on Friday, October 15th. Judging commences at 12 Midday. All enquiries should be made to Oliver Flanagan on 087-6112938. Registration for this year’s Dog Show takes place at 12 Midday and there are 21 classes in all including ‘Best Groomed Dog’, ‘Best Rescue Dog’, ‘Best Fancy Dress’, ‘Dog with the waggiest tail’, and Champion and Reserve Champion of the Show. The entry fee is €4 per class or three classes for €10 with amazing prizes to be won on the day. Judging commences at 1 pm sharp. There will also be a Dog Training demonstration on the day as well as many other attractions as Ballyforan welcomes visitors to its very popular Fair day once again. You can find out more about the Ballyforan Fair and Show on the Facebook page or by contacting Dennis (087-7678120) or Dermot (087-6776731).

Flashback to 2019: Pictured at the Ballyforan Fair & Festival launch in Ballyforan was Dermot Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

Ballyforan Fair&Festival

Cllr Kelly welcomes the return of the Fair DAN DOONER

A lot has changed since the last Ballyforan Fair and Show but among the scant good news of the past two years was the emergence of local woman, Emer Kelly, as a force in local politics. Text

The Independent councillor and former Ballyforan Fair and Show Secretary was selected to replace Ivan Connaughton when he announced he was stepping down from Roscommon County Council earlier this year. This week, Cllr. Kelly

said she was delighted to see the return of the popular local event. “Look it’s great that we are getting to see a fair taking place this year. Traditionally, we would have always had a fair in Ballyforan around the 14th of October.

“We have been lucky in previous years to be able to stage a two-day event but after it was cancelled due to Covid last year, the hardworking local committee were determined to have it this year, even if it had to be a ‘slimmed down’ version,” she said. Emer said there was something for everyone to enjoy at this year’s Fair and Show. thing for every age. While you have the traditional events, there are classes for young handlers in the Sheep Show as well as fun classes in the Dog Show. Young or old, there’s

something for the whole family,” she added. The people of Ballyforan have been playing their part too and the village is in top shape thanks to the efforts of the local Tidy Towns group. “People in Ballyforan always pull together whenever there is an event on and this year is certainly no different,” Emer said. “Whether you are local or not, it would be worth paying a visit on the day because what you’ll see effort the people in Ballyforan have put into the Fair and Show this year,” she concluded.

Visit the Car Boot Sale! As part of this year’s Ballyforan Fair and Show, a Car Boot Sale will take place through-

Flashback to 2019: Pictured at the Ballyforan Fair & Festival launch in Ballyforan were Marissa Tansey, Caitlin Kelly and Niamh Hoey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Saturday 16th October

3 pm. Cost of entry is €10 per car with plenty of bargains to be had on the day. Social distancing will be in place so you can grab a bargain in a safe and welcoming environment!

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Maureen’s Foodstore

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St. Aidan’s GAA Club Best wishes to Ballyforan Fair & Festival from

Cllr. Tony Ward

Independent Councillor working for all the people

Tel: 090 64 88294 or Mobile: 087 9165226 Email: tonywardmcc@eircom.net

Independent member of Roscommon County Council and a full time public representative.

Get in touch with the best in class! If you are interested in taking an active part in this year’s Ballyforan Fair and Show as its makes a welcome return to the local events calendar, get in touch with the organisers…

For Horse Show enquiries contact Kevin on 0868118148 or Miriam on 0867313345. For all Poultry information get in touch with Oliver Flanagan on 087-

6112938. Call 086-8925873 for all Dog Show and Car Boot Sale enquiries, and get in touch with Dermott Kelly on 087-6776731 for information on the Sheep Show.

Visit the Car Boot Sale! As part of this year’s Ballyforan Fair and Show, a Car Boot Sale will take place Cost of entry is €10 per car with plenty of bargains to be had on the day. Social distancing will be in place so you can grab a bargain in a safe and welcoming environment!

Find us on Facebook:

Flashback to 2019: Pictured at the Ballyforan Fair & Festival launch in Ballyforan were Aidan Thompson, Cllr. John Naughten and Dermot Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Thanks to our sponsors who gave generously this year.

Horses - Kevin 0868118148 or Miriam 086 7313345 Poultry- Oliver Flanagan 087 6112938 Dog show and car boot sale - 086 8925873 Sheep- Dermot Kelly 087 6776731

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

Flashback: Chairman Pat Towey pictured with Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed members Tom Bruen, Martin Sharkey, Colm Flannery and Gerry Corrigan during Men’s Health Week last June.

Members of Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed recently met with residents from the local Emergency Reception and Orientation Centre to share stories and discuss future projects.

‘Shedding’ the shackles of lockdown! Local Men’s Sheds across the county are beginning to reopen following a year and a half of Covid-19 lockdowns. The Men’s Shed is a place where men can meet up regularly to have a chat, play a game of cards, and even learn some new skills.

Interests and activities vary from shed to shed and members’ input dictates each group’s strategy for future growth. The importance of local Men’s Sheds cannot be overestimated and the social platform they provide was sorely missed during the long months of Covid-19. Visitors to the shed remark on the pleasant atmosphere, where men of all ages can find a safe space and enjoy the company of their peers. Men from all walks of life can be found at the shed, where loneliness and isolation are staved off. Chairperson of Ballaghader-

reen Men’s Shed, Pat Towey, says sheds give some muchneeded structure for members. “You are lost for something to do (after retirement), particularly if you have nobody to offer you encouragement. Sheds are very aware of emotional health and well-being and play a pivotal role in supporting other men who might be struggling with life. “Once in a shed setting you will get to know the other guys, and your confidence will grow. You will look forward to attending and engaging in shed life whatever you wish to do. Mental Health is openly discussed

and members regularly talk and listen to each other over a cup of tea. There is no judgement in the shed”. Shed membership is growing in Roscommon and there are now groups in the following areas: Ballaghaderreen, Ballyleague, Boyle, Cloonfad, Castlerea, Strokestown and Rooskey. There are also advanced plans for sheds in Elphin, Kilteevan and Roscommon town. If you are interested in learning more about the Men’s Shed in your area, check out www. menssheds.ie.

Ballaghaderreen Located at The Square, Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed is open every Tuesday evening from 7 pm to 9 pm. Ballaghaderreen’s Shed was recently visited by residents from the local Emergency Reception and Orientation Centre. The visit was facilitated by Ciaran Mullooly of Roscommon LEADER Partnership. Through an interpreter, the visitors told the men about themselves and the trades they had practiced in their homeland. The two groups are now planning a future collaboration along with Tom Colleran. The meeting was a wonderful development and David O’Gara thanked both groups, explaining how they could learn and evolve together to enjoy all that Shed life has to offer. Castlerea Located at the GRETB building on Patrick’s Street, Castlerea Men’s Shed reopened recently and members are delighted to get back together following a long lay-off due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Despite its closure, one important outdoor project was brought to fruition during ‘lockdown’: a sculpture of ‘Cindy’ the elephant, who is buried at the Demesne in Castlerea. The existing plaque was cleaned and the sculpture was installed at the burial site which has been converted into a beautiful amenity area complete with flowers, shrubs and seating. Castlerea Men’s Shed took the lead in organising the project but many local groups and organisations also played their part with funding provided by Roscommon County Council and Castlerea Town Trust. The shed is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10.30 am to 1 pm and looks forward to welcoming new members. It is just the place for men who might have felt cooped up and starved of company because of Covid restrictions. Cloonfad Cloonfad Men’s Shed is situated beside the national school on the Galway Road and is a brand new development. Founded in 2019 thanks to the vision of men like Sean Brennan, the new shed was completed

just last year at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Cloonfad Shed is open to all new members and is a place where kindness and decency are top of the agenda. Works are currently progressing on a new bowling mat, which is sure to be an added attraction. Cloonfad Men’s Shed is open Fridays from 10 am to 1 pm. On a sad note, Cloonfad’s members wish to acknowledge the wonderful work and commitment of two founding members who passed away recently: President Tony Mullen, and Chairperson Tom Shannon. Both men were very proud of the facility they had helped to create and it would be their wish that men of all ages join and enjoy what ‘shed life’ is all about. For further information, please contact Sean Brennan, Newtown, Cloonfad, Ballyhaunis. Strokestown Located at Vesnoy, Strokestown Men’s Shed has reopened following a long ‘lockdown’ hiatus. The shed was formed by Sean Furey (RIP), who had a great interest in everything mechanical.

According to members John Gilleran and PJ Martin, the men are excited to open again in their new base. They meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 pm to 10 pm and are actively looking for new members to assist with some unfinished projects and some new plans. They can be contacted on 086-8356228.

Men’s Sheds reopen across the county < DAN DOONER

Introducing your local ‘Sheds’…

‘Sheds for Life’ running until December 10th

Men’s Sheds across County Roscommon are set for a very interesting few weeks with the ‘Sheds for Life’ programme which commenced on Monday last (4th) and will run for the next ten weeks until December 10th. Due to Covid-19 and feedback from Men’s Shed members and partners, the programme will also run online. Participants are being asked to take part in three core modules and they will also be able to attend optional talks that interest them. Sheds which have Internet connection and computer resources will be able to run the classes as a group. Individual shed members will be able to take part in the programme from their own homes. Participating ‘Shedders’ will also be pioneers of the programme and will contribute to the future of ‘Sheds for Life’ by taking part in research being carried out by Waterford Institute of Technology. Shedders will be asked to complete two questionnaires, at the beginning of the programme and at the end. This questionnaire will be filled out online or over the phone. The core components of the ‘Sheds for Life’ programme are as follows: Online Physical Activity Classes; Cooking and Nutrition; Mental Health and Well-being Workshops; Cancer, Diabetes, Dementia, Heart Health and Dental Health talks; Digital Literacy Training, and a range of optional talks and workshops.

Pictured is the Castlerea Men’s Shed sculpture of ‘Cindy’ the elephant, who is buried at The Demesne in Castlerea.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

TAKE A BREAK

It’s been a GOOD week for…

The hurlers of Athleague and Tremane, who qualified for a unique Roscommon Senior Hurling Final – a local derby between two clubs from the same parish – following unexpected semi-final wins over Padraig Pearses and Four Roads respectively The fight against Covid-19, with case numbers in the Republic of Ireland falling below 1,000 per day for the first time since mid-July Mo Salah, (right), with the Liverpool star scoring an early goal of the season contender, in reality one of the best goals in the history of the Premier League, during his side’s 2-2 draw in their top of the table clash with Manchester City (Paul Healy’s take, page 6)

It’s been a BAD week for… The charismatic Xisco Munoz, who became the first managerial casualty of the new Premier League season in England when he was sacked by Watford Pictured is author and journalist, PJ Cunningham, who collaborated with Croke Park on the publication of ‘Grassroots: Stories From The Heart Of The GAA (Volume 1)’.

Three Roscommon stories included in landmark GAA grassroots book Three stories relating to County Roscommon are included in a fascinating new book on the GAA, written by people at the heart of the association nationwide. ‘Grassroots: Stories From The Heart Of The GAA’, is a treasure trove of GAA memories, tales and incidents, spanning over 150 years. “The book generated an incredible response from every county in Ireland, as well as from the Irish abroad,” said author and journalist, PJ Cunningham, who collaborated with Croke Park on the publication. “I have included stories not only since the GAA’s foundation in 1884, but from before, through to the Civil War and up to modern times. “The collection is, in essence, the first time that this rich oral tradition of sideline and on-field stories have been put together and published in this form. It provides snapshots into the history of the GAA, recounted by the people at the heart of the action, whether those stories are happy or sad, dramatic or ordinary”. Such was the response from the GAA community that work has already begun on a second collection. The first edition includes stories from the rich history of Roscommon GAA. Creator of the term ‘the Rossies,’

Paddy Joe Burke’s contribution revolves around his sporting theatre of dreams – Dr Hyde Park. It was there, as one millennium was in its death throes, that he arrived to make history that would last another thousand years. As they might say, only Paddy Joe would come up with such a great idea as to straddle millennia. Tommie Kenoy wonders, like many in the county, whatever happened to the Fahey Cup after it was

won for the one and only time by Kilmore back in 1983. It was central to the club’s celebrations for the week after the final and for a while afterwards. Then, when the County Board asked for it to be returned in 1984, it could not be found. These past 38 years, the new ‘Fahey Cup’ is presented, but the trail has long since run cold on the whereabouts of the original. A bonus for ‘Rossies’ is the story by the incomparable former Galway All-Ireland winning captain Joe Connolly on how he ended up playing Féile for a club in Roscommon, and how he was almost unmasked when he couldn’t remember the name under which he was playing! Other contributors include former Irish soccer international Niall Quinn, Meath legends Sean Boylan and Bernard Flynn, Tony O’Hehir, son of the legendary Michael, exArmagh player and manager Joe Kernan, and RTÉ hurling analyst and former Offaly star, Michael Duignan. ‘Grassroots: Stories From The Heart Of The GAA (Volume 1)’, is priced at €19.99. If you have a GAA anecdote or story you would like to share for Volume 2, contact PJ Cunningham on 086 8217631 or email pj@gaastories.ie.

The credibility of stubborn senior Tories, with Brexit Minister David Frost telling the Conservative Party conference that he will consider suspending parts of the deal as it relates to Northern Ireland, this despite the fact that he personally recommended the deal to his boss, Prime Minister Boris Johnson People who are deliberately lazy or inactive, with reports that actor and all-round amazing chap William Shatner (right) – immortalised for playing Captain Kirk in the original Star Trek – is to fly to space later this month...at the age of 90

“

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

The things people say…

“So now I can say something. Yes, it’s true; I’m going to be a ‘rocket man!’” -Tweet from actor William Shatner (90), famous for his role as Captain Kirk in Star Trek, after it was announced this week that he intends to fly to space on a ‘Blue Origin’ rocket on October 12th

Matt Damon (American actor, producer and screenwriter, and occasional Dalkey resident, 51 on Friday)

Sharon Osbourne (British-American TV personality, music manager and author, 69 on Saturday)

Simon Cowell (English TV personality and record executive, famous for reality shows like The X Factor, 62 on Thursday)

Sigourney Weaver (American actress, star of Ghostbusters, a seven-time Golden Globe nominee, 72 on Friday)

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

FarmingPeople

Macra: Government must ensure a future in farming for young people Macra na Feirme has called on the Government to ensure that the upcoming CAP Strategic Plan delivery and Carbon Budgets consider young farmers and the future of Irish farming. Macra na Feirme’s national President, John Keane, said: “These plans and budgets will

shape the future of farming in Ireland long into the future. What young farmers need is constructive engagement on both topics to ensure that a future is provided for young people in farming. “If caps and limits are implemented by our Government it would drive food production

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away from Ireland resulting in increased negative impacts on our climate and environment”. The Macra President added that young farmers need the Government to provide supports and policies which deliver on environmental commitments while allowing farmers the opportunity to grow their

family farm business. “Getting the balance wrong will result in Irish family farms being placed at a disadvantage compared to our international counterparts,” Keane said. Macra na Feirme has now asked the Government to ensure that the CAP Strategic Plan and Carbon Budgets pro-

vide young farmers and new entrants the opportunity to enter and grow within the farming sector. “We cannot find ourselves in a position where farming in Ireland does not provide for new entrants into the sector or allow for young people to grow a business and develop a sus-

tainable living,” added Keane. “Plans that restrict both new entrants and young people will not be conducive to meeting our environmental targets, generational renewal commitments nor ensuring the fabric of rural communities is maintained for generations to follow”.

Roscommon man is new INHFA President < DAN DOONER

Roscommon man, Vincent Roddy, is the new President of the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) after he was ratified at the organisations National AGM which took place at Jackson’s Hotel, Ballybofey, Donegal on Thursday last. The Ballaghaderreen native will lead a new team consisting of two new Vice-Presidents in Pheilim Molloy from Donegal and Michael McDonnell from Co. Mayo. They will also be joined by Sharon Cosgrave from Mayo as National Secretary and Sligo native Hugh Gallagher as National Treasurer. In his first Presidential address, Vincent Roddy focused heavily on the current CAP reform, Climate Change and ongoing issues confronting farmers with Land Designations. Discussing CAP, the new President reiterated the INHFA’s call for a full flattening of Pillar 1 payments through 100 percent convergance and front-loaded payments. “This recognises how these policies will not alone deliver in terms of equal payment for the same conditions but will also provide the best means of pro-

tecting the greatest number of farmers,” he said. Mr. Roddy also called for an annual budget increase of at least €250 million to deliver an overall budget of €850 million in relation to Pillar 2 payments. On Climate Change Advisory Council proposals to reduce the suckler herd due to its lack of profitability, Mr. Roddy said the council’s role should be “to assess emissions and their impact based on science and not whether the sector was profitable or not”. He called on the CCAC to revisit this assessment and provide an updated view based “entirely on science”. Continuing on the issue of climate change and proposals around Just Transition, the INHFA President said there would be a cost to farmers as they aim to deliver on targets. “This cost will be seen through loss of agricultural output resulting in lower profits, additional regulation and additional labour costs. And how do we know this? Because farmers operating on our designated habitats namely SACs and SPAs have lived with these costs for the past 20 years,” he said. “Unfortunately, these farmers are still waiting

for a just transition as they struggle with the 39 notifiable actions that undermines their farming activity and profit”. In a direct plea to Agricultural Minister Charlie McConalogue, who was in attendance, he stressed the need to address this issue and help build trust with the farming community. “Like in any relationship and this is a relationship between the State and the farmer trust is important and right now there is no trust. Again and again farmers have been ignored when they look for fair or just payment,” he said. “And it’s not like they haven’t delivering for the State. Based on the EU’s own Nature Fitness Check, the Natura 2000 network is delivering €2.5 billion each year to the Irish economy which translates into €3,000 per hectare. For our farmers, the only payment available to them is €79/ ha but they have to join GLAS for this” Mr. Roddy concluded by highlighting the strong turnout at last Thursday’s meeting and said it was a “clear indication from our branch and county officers of their determination to make the INHFA a dominant force in Irish agriculture”.

Cullinan: ‘Blame game only distracts from mammoth climate challenge’ IFA President Tim Cullinan has responded to comments made by the Director General of the Environmental Protection Agency concerning agricultural emissions. Speaking following comments made in the media recently by Laura Burke, he said: “We all acknowledge that more needs to be done, but singling out a specific sector is unhelpful and unfair on farmers”. Mr. Cullinan said that farmers were already taking many positive steps to make their farms more sustainable with over €80 million invested in Low

Emission Slurry Spreading (LESS) equipment and 96 per cent of farmers positively engaged with the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP. “Farmers have achieved economic growth in the sector, not by driving emissions up, but by improving productivity, increasing efficiency and adopting more sustainable farming practices,” said the IFA President. “We have had enough of the blame game. It is distracting from the mammoth task ahead for Irish society to meet the climate targets”.

Castlerea MART WATCH A large entry of stock presented for our annual show and sale of Aberdeen Angus heifers in conjunction with our usual sale. The heifer trade remains very strong at the moment with a good attendance of customers present resulting in a good clearance. The topquality stores reached €3 a kilo while the heavier lots made up to €2.88 a kilo. The weanling rings reported very strong demand this week with the bulls peaking at €4.13 a kilo while the heifer weanlings peaked at €3.89 a kilo, and cows with calves at foot made up to €2,510 for a Charolais cow and her Aberdeen Angus bull calf at foot. Calves and runners met a lively trade as farmers were out in force replacing sold lots. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,080 to €2,510. Springers made from €1,360 to €1,500. Calves/runners made from €220 to €840 for continental type lots. 350 bullocks presented for sale at our annual show and sale of Aberdeen Angus bullocks on September 27th. A fine yard of stock met with a flier of a trade with AA bullocks peaking at €2.92 a kilo and heavier lots making up to €1,790. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday (October 7th) when we hold our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am. Sample prices for heifers: Lm 405kgs €1160, Ch 360kgs €1080, Lm 380kgs €1010, Lm 475kgs €1360, Ch 455kgs €1270, AA 485kgs €1240, Ch 590kgs €1540, Lm 540kgs €1510, Lm 520kgs €1500, Her 640kgs €1480. Dry cows: Ch 925kgs €2050, Lm 770kgs €1750, Lm 785kgs €1710, Ch 755kgs €1610, Sim 700kgs €1540, Ch 695kgs €1420, Fr 490kgs €500. Weanling bulls: Ch 290kg €1040, Ch 285kgs €1000, Lm 280kgs €990, Ch 350kgs €1280, Ch 300kgs €1240, AA 505kgs €1200, Lm 445kgs €1170, Ch 360kgs €1160. Weanling heifers: Lmx 275kgs €1070, Lm 290kgs €1000, Sim 240kgs €850, Lm 365kgs €1050, Lm 360kgs €1050, Lm 310kgs €1020, Ch 330kgs €1000. Bullocks: AA 495kgs €1450, AA 465kgs €1350, AA 415kgs €1190, AA 525kgs €1470, AA 505kgs €1450, AA 545kgs €1420, AA 595kgs €1480, AA 560kgs €1450, AA 570kgs €1570, AA 750kgs €1790, AA 675kgs €1510.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

FarmingPeople

IFA Telecom announces ‘market-leading’ package IFA Telecom has launched a new offer which it says will save farmers up to €350 on home phone and broadband packages. Speaking following the launch, James Kelly, IFA’s Director of Organisation, said: “IFA Telecom supported and engaged with our members over the last 18 months by making over 60,000 ‘check-in’ calls. As we emerge from the pandemic, one of the main aims of our business is to ensure we continue to bring fantastic service and incredible value to our farm family members. One element of that campaign is the launch of this six-month free IFA Telecom offer. “Broadband access is more important than ever

for Irish farmers families. The pandemic saw farmers change how they do business. Trading their stock at the mart, attending their farm organisation meetings and keeping in touch with their families online has accelerated the need for reliable broadband. IFAT is best placed to provide this service to the rural community”. Martin Stapleton, Chair of IFA Member Services, added: “Farmers established IFA Telecom for farmers. IFA is committed to not only providing members with strong and unrivalled representation but also a range of member benefits to give each member access to professional supports and cost savings.

Special Sale of Bullocks

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

Fall Special Sale of Heifers & Breeding Heifers Friday, October 15th at 11a.m. Also Bullocks and Dry Cows

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, 11th October

------------------------------Tuesday, October 12th Pictured at the launch of IFA Telecom’s new phone and broadband package were (left to right): James Kelly, IFA Director of Organisation, Orlagh McNamara, IFA Head of Marketing, and Martin Stapelton, Chair of IFA Member Services.

“With IFA Telecom, there are no hidden costs, and we provide exceptional customer service.

Budget was announced in the summer of 2020,” he said. The IFA President said the Commission cannot try to force through the targets in ‘Farm to Fork’ through the back door of the CAP National Strategic Plans. “The only assessment so far of the impact of the Farm to Fork strategy on incomes and food security was done by the USDA, and it was very

Our Customer Service team is based right here in the Farm Centre and are trained to know our service

inside-out”. For more information on this offer, contact IFA Telecom on 0818-924852.

concerning,” he said. The Commission’s JRC technical report on effects of the Farm to Fork and Biodiversity strategies was released in August. In line with other reports, it showed a 5-15 per cent decline in agriculture production and a 10 per cent increase in production costs. The IFA President said the Commission’s own study showed that

50 per cent of GHG emissions reduction would be substituted by equivalent GHG emissions in third countries, which underlines the need for greater coherence in Commission policy. Tim Cullinan said some of what’s proposed in the next CAP will have far-reaching and significant implications for Irish farmers, and the wider sector.

Roscommon MART WATCH There was another great entry of topquality cattle on offer at our weekly Friday sale on October 1st. Trade was lively, with lots of buyers sourcing stock online at the ringside. Heifers ranged from an average of €2.47 per kilo up to €4.38 per kilo for a Lim X Heifer weighing 470kgs and fetching €2,060 (€1,590 over her weight). There was a decent entry of bullocks on offer considering the large booking of over 120 pens entered for next week’s sale. Bullocks averaged from €2.27 per kilo up to €3.18 per kilo. There were 81 dry cows on offer with lots making from an average of €1.97 per kilo €2.37 per kilo This Friday, October 8th, we will have our special sale of bullocks and general sale of heifers and dry cows. There was a good entry of top-quality stock on offer at our weanling sale on Tuesday last, October 5th, with a brisk trade and a good numbers of buyers sourcing stock. Weanling bulls averaged from €2.69 per kilo up to €3.72 per kilo, and weanling heifers made from an average of €2.58 per kilo up to €3.30 per kilo. Our next show and sale of weanlings takes place on Tuesday, October 12th, at 4 pm. Bookings will be accepted up until 5 pm today (Thursday, 7th). There was a smaller entry on offer at our weekly sale for lambs and cast ewes yesterday (Wednesday, October 6th),

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday, October 8th at 11 a.m. 150 pens on offer Also Heifers and Dry Cows Gates open at 6 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m.

Work on CAP impact assessment should begin immediately - IFA IFA President Tim Cullinan has acknowledged the move by the EU Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski to carry out ‘a comprehensive impact assessment’ of the CAP Strategic Plans and says it should begin immediately. “This is an important step, but it must begin immediately. It’s long overdue. In fact, it’s something IFA has been looking for since the CAP

(Proudly serving farmers for over 62 years)

with a similar trade to the previous week. There was a good selection of ewe lambs presented for sale with plenty of customers sourcing them. The tops of ewe lambs fetched up to €150 for 52.10kgs, finished lambs made up to €142, store lambs made up to €117, and stag ewes made up €160. Our next sheep sale takes place on Wednesday, October 13th, at 11 am. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note that all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com. Sample prices for dry cows: Char 885kgs €2100, BAX 805kgs €1850, Char X 845kgs €1830, PT 830kgs €1780, Char X 715kgs €1430, AAX 705kgs €1440, BAX 730kgs €1490, AA 770kgs €1540, Lim X 745kgs €1550, Lim X 720kgs €1570, Lim X 565kgs €1310, Lim X 565kgs €1310, BBX 525kgs €1170, Lim X 565kgs €1310. Heifers: Lim X 470kgs €2060, Lim X 695kgs €1910, Char X 735kgs €1900, Char X 605kgs €1890, Lim X 615kgs €1750, Char X 635kgs €1710, Lim X 565kgs €1640, 2 Char X 567kgs €1600, Char X 570kgs €1570, Lim X 555kgs €1650, Char X 555kgs €1570, Char X 510kgs €1600, Char X 515kgs €1550, Char X 505kgs €1470, Char X 460kgs €1500, BBX 575kgs €1420, Lim X 475kgs €1440, Simm 530kgs €1370, Lim X 445kgs €1330, Char X 440kgs €1330, Char X 410kgs €1130. Bullocks: Lim X 655kgs €1840, Char X 640kgs €1590, Char X 480kgs €1530, Char

X 525kgs €1430, Char X 450kgs €1160, 2 AAX 477kgs €1150, 2 Char X 487kgs €1240, Char X 510kgs €1320, Char X 540kgs €1400, Char X 525kgs €1430, Simm 455kgs €1050, Lim X 470kgs €1100. Weanlings: Char X 420kgs €1050 - €2.50 per kilo, Char X 425kgs €1040 - €2.44 per kilo, Lim X 410kgs €1040 - €2.53 per kilo, Char X 355kgs €1020 - €2.67 per kilo, Char X 330kgs €1010 - €3.06 per kilo, Char X 320kgs €890 - €2.78 per kilo, Lim X 320kgs €920 - €2.81 per kilo, Char X 305kgs €980 €3.21 per kilo, AAX 330kgs €850 - €2.57 per kilo, AAX 305kgs €740 - €2.42 per kilo, Char X 255kgs €840 - €3.29 per kilo. Weanling bulls: Char 550kgs €1410 - €2.56 per kilo, Char 505kgs €1340 - €2.65 per kilo, Char X 460kgs €1250 - €2.71 per kilo, Char X 350kgs €1090 - €3.11 per kilo, Char X 330kgs €1100 - €3.33 per kilo, Char X 325kgs €1120 - €3.44 per kilo, Lim X 420kgs €1080 - €2.57 per kilo, Char X 375kgs €1030 - €2.74 per kilo, Lim X 280kgs €1010 - €3.60 per kilo, BBX 380kgs €1000 - €2.63 per kilo, Lim X 295kgs €950 - €3.22 per kilo, AAX 360kgs €920 - €2.55 per kilo. Finished lambs: 49.1kgs €142, 53kgs €141, 50.80kgs €140, 50kgs €139, 50kgs €138, 46.1kgs €138, 48kgs €137, 51.7kgs €136, 47.6kgs €135. Ewe lambs: 52kgs €150, 51.6kgs €145, 53.3kgs €144, 51.4kgs €142, 53.2kgs €140, 47kgs €140, 47.90kgs €139, 45.2kgs €136, 46.5kgs €131, 45.8kgs €131, 43.6kgs €130. Store lambs: 38kgs €117, 36.6kgs €116, 36.4kgs €114, 39.kgs €106, 36.5kgs €100.

Show & Sale of Weanlings JUDGING 3.00 p.m. SALE 4.00 p.m. Gates open at 11.30 a.m. 2 Sales Rings All Cattle must be penned by 1 p.m.

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 7th

Prizes: 1st: €100, 2nd: €65, 3rd: €40 Class 1: Best Pair of Bull Weanlings Class 2: Best Pair of Heifer Weanlings -------------------------Tuesday, October 19th at 4 p.m.

Fall Special Sale of Weanlings Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 14th ----------------------

Tuesday, October 19th at 6 p.m. 8 Lim X Top Quality Springing Heifers in calf to AI Lim Bull ZAG due end of October to November Also

20 Excellent Quality Cont. X Springing Heifers Majority in calf to AI Lim Bull EBY – others in calf to PB Lim Stock Bull Due December/January ----------------------

Date for your Dairy

Tuesday, 26th October at 6 p.m. 50 Excellent Quality in calf Springing Heifers (Simm X & Lim X) in calf to Lim Stock Bull-calving 1st November onwards – some of the Heifers are 4 & 5 Stars ----------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. ----------------------

Saturday, October 9th

Breeding Ewes & Hoggets (Last sale) at 11 a.m. Also West of Ireland Suffolk Breeders Club Sale at 12 noon. ----------------------Saturday, October 9th at 1 p.m.

Organic Sale – Cattle & Sheep

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

NewsPeople

Oliver Carty launches award-winning family brand

Pictured at the launch of the new family brand, ‘Oliver Carty & Family’, are Jack, Aoife and Ben Carty.

Contribution to go to Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation Oliver Carty has announced a new range of pork, bacon and turkey products to celebrate 60 years in business, sharing what they call ‘The Carty Way’. The new family brand, ‘Oliver Carty & Family’, is a first after years of supplying pork and bacon to industry. The family has sourced a specially selected range of pork exclusively from the Little River Pig Farm, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford (cured using Irish Atlantic Sea Salt harvested on the Beara Peninsula in West Cork), and a range of 100% Irish turkey for their rashers, medallions, lardons and joint products. Coinciding with the launch is the announcement of two 2-star Great Taste Awards, an incredible achievement that recognises outstanding products that are awarded to less than 10% of food and drink entries. Ted Carty (CEO) said at the launch: “After over 60 years, it is wonderful to see the family name on our special bacon and turkey products. My father started the business in our family home in Arcadia, Athlone in the 1950s and he would be very proud today that his son and daughter, myself and Ber, and his grandchildren Aoife, Deirdre, Jack and Ben are continuing his traditions. “Oliver had a special way of curing bacon and doing things, and we’re delighted to now see his traditions continue and appear on supermarket shelves. We call it ‘The Carty Way’ in his memory, and are delighted to share it with everyone”. Aoife Carty (granddaughter) added: “It’s especially poignant that we launch this week, as we are celebrating our success in winning two prestigious Great Taste Awards, proof that ‘The Carty Way’

and our Carty Cure is delicious. Our Oliver Carty Honey and Brown Sugar Glazed Ham on the Bone and Oliver Carty Dry Aged Salt Rubbed Pork Belly both received two stars – an incredible achievement just as we launch and recognition of how great the products are”. Jack Carty (grandson and out-half for Connacht Rugby) said: “I’m delighted that my idea of bringing to market an Irish turkey medallion is finally available on shelf for everyone to enjoy. Turkey is a great fit into my high-performance diet – it’s high in protein and low in fat. The medallions we are launching are 100% Irish, only 28 calories each, and taste great”. Bernie Carty (daughter) said: “I’m so proud of the launch and the Great Taste Awards, and am delighted that we are continuing the family traditions after 60 years. I’m equally delighted that we are supporting the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation. It is such a great charity that does amazing work”. The Oliver Carty & Family brand is available across all SuperValu and Donnybrook Fair stores. For every pack from the Little River Pig Farm sold, Oliver Carty & Family will donate 5 cent to The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation. Carmel Doyle (CEO of Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation) said: “Thank you to all at Oliver Carty for supporting Jack & Jill. The donations from the sales of these products will translate into home nursing care for the 396 children currently under our wing in communities across Ireland. “With twelve children under our care in Roscommon, we are hugely grateful to be supported by such a strong family and community-centred business like Oliver Carty. Our model is very much child and family centred and it is the generosity of local businesses that keeps Jack & Jill going; community is at the heart of what we do too”.

Jack Carty pictured at the launch of the new family brand, ‘Oliver Carty & Family’.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

PropertyPeople

PROPERTY PARTNERS NEW TO THE MARKET Eco Friendly 4 BEDROOMED Residence Approx. LOCATED AT

ORCHARD GROVE, ELPHIN, ROSCOMMON F45KH95 AMV €200,000 1592 ft² in a Prime Location

ipav

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

EARLEY

NEW TO THE MARKET SUPERIOR QUALITY 4 BEDROOMED RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

CLOONSHANNAGH, ROOSKEY, ROSCOMMON N41 EY11 AMV €350,00 €350,000

This beautiful home is a 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom property and offers spacious and well-proportioned living accommodation comprised of an entrance hall, sitting room, living room, kitchen/dining room area, utility, W.C, two en-suite bathrooms and with the master also benefiting from a walk in wardrobe and the main bathroom. Also benefits from an insulated attic. Certified with an impressive C3 BER Certificate, heated via oil fired central heating, solid fuel stove. The kitchen is both modern and spacious and has a beautiful conservatory lounge off This superior residence is on a large mature and immaculately maintained site. This home is the definition of turnkey and ready for immediate occupancy. A fantastic Detached home on a large mature site. This home is the definition of turnkey and ready for immediate occupancy. It is very rare that a home of this level comes to market in this area. Measuring in at approx 1,592 sq ft this home offers a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor space with the site itself measuring in at just under approx 0.54 acre. This beautiful home is a 4 bedroom 3 bathroom property and offers spacious and well-proportioned living accommodation comprised of an entrance hall, sitting room, living room, kitchen/dining room area, sunroom after the kitchen/dining area and also there are two handmade marble and wrought iron fireplaces in the sitting and living room, utility, W.C, Master bedroom of which benefits from an en-suite and finally the main bathroom. Also benefits from an insulated attic. This Eco friendly house is certified with an impressive C3 BER Certificate, heated via oil fired central heating, open fire place. The open plan kitchen/dining room is both modern and spacious. Both fireplaces in each living room are handmade with marble and wrought iron. There is walnut floors in both sitting rooms. BER C3 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

It is very rare that a home of this level comes to market in this area. Measuring in at approx 1,940 sq ft this home offers a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor space with the site itself measuring in at just under approx 0.5 acre. BER C3 The Auctioneer now invites immediate viewings

FINAL OFFERS INVITED 4 BEDROOMED RESIDENCE OF APPROX.1510 ft² LOCATED AT

RATHCONOR, FOUR MILE HOUSE, ROSCOMMON F42 WY04 Recently Refurbished to a High Standard

AMV €250,000

FOR LEASE A primely located retail unit of approx. 700 sq.ft offering vacant possession (Former travel agents – “East West Travel”) LOCATED AT

2 STONECOURT, THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TOWN CENTRE

The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to LEASE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TO LET

RATHCLINE, LANESBORO, CO. LONGFORD SUBSTANTIAL SLATTED SHED COMPRISING OF: APPROX 8 BAY DOUBLE (16 BAYS) TERMS: lettings from now until 1st May 2022 Services: Water, ESB on site use (costs of same will be the responsibility of the said tenant). The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to LEASE

This beautiful home was recently refurbished to an incredibly high standard with tasteful, modern décor in every room. Extending to Approx.1,510 sq. ft., this property offers spacious and well-proportioned living accommodation comprised of an entrance hall, living room, open plan kitchen/dining/living area, utility, W.C., 4 bedrooms with master being en-suite and the main bathroom. Also benefits from an insulated attic. Certified with an impressive C3 BER Certificate, heated via oil fired central heating, solid fuel stove with stunning brick feature fireplace in the kitchen/living area and a solid fuel fireplace with feature fireplace in the living room. Double glazed windows are fitted throughout. The property sits on an excellently maintained 0.59 acre site with patio area to the rear, manicured lawns front and back and a wraparound chipping driveway providing ample private parking. BER C3 LEGAL: Brendan Noone, Messer’s Connellan Solicitors, Longford Tel: 043 33 46440 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 or John 086 2551380 Fax: (090) 6625405

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

PropertyPeople

Five-bedroomed residence close to Roscommon town This week, John Earley of Property Partners Earley is offering a five-bedroomed, detached residence with a one-bedroomed apart-

ment, located at Carrowroe beside Roscommon town (F42 XK58). Situated on a large site of approximately 1.6 acres,

this property offers further development opportunity subject to planning permission being grated. AMV: €250,000. BER:

D2. The property is presented in good condition and is being sold as is. The property also benefits from a one-bedroom,

one-bathroom granny flat, located to the side. The residence is heated via oil-fired central heating and a solid fuel stove with back boiler. Externally, the property sits on a site of approximately 1.65 acres, with two storage sheds and a tarmac driveway. Total area: approximately 1,600 square feet. Carrowroe is situated just two minutes from Roscommon town, and the property is within easy access of ample amenities, including schools, pre-schools, shops, supermarkets, pubs, restaurants, parks, playgrounds, church, hospital, medical centre, various sporting facilities, and public transport links. For more information, contact Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or contact auctioneer John Earley (FIPAV) on 086-2551380 or at jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Earley’s want warehouse-style property This week, Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are urgently seeking a warehouse-style property/ farmyardstyle buildings of approximately 30,000 square feet for a client. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@ propertypartners.ie.

MyHome.ie: Roscommon property prices unchanged in last quarter Median asking price now at €140,000   Property prices in Roscommon have bucked the national trend and remained unchanged during the last quarter, according to the latest MyHome.ie Property Report.       The report for Q3 2021, in association with Davy, shows that the median asking price for a property in the county has stayed steady at €140,000. This is in contrast with the overall national picture, which saw a quarterly increase in asking prices of 2 percent.      However, asking prices for a 3-bed semidetached house in the county increased by €15,000 over the quarter to €110,000. This means that prices in the segment have remained unchanged compared to this time last year.      Meanwhile, the asking price for a 4-bed semi-detached house

in Roscommon stayed steady over the quarter at €150,000. However, this still represents a year-onyear increase of €10,000 in the segment. The number of properties for sale in Roscommon on MyHome.ie rose by 19 percent in the last quarter. The average time for a property to go sale agreed in the county after being placed up for sale now stands at nearly six months. Looking at the overall picture, the author of the report, Conall MacCoille, Chief Economist at Davy, said the findings would provide little respite for homebuyers. “The market is still starved of supply, with prices being bid-up aggressively by homebuyers. This behaviour is evident in transactions being settled well above asking prices. For a limited pool of 450 properties sold during the sum-

mer, we have calculated the transaction price was 6.5 per cent higher than the asking price, compared with a premium of 2.7 per cent in Q2 2021,” he said. “Unfortunately, there has been only a marginal improvement in housing market conditions for homebuyers. Although new listings have recovered through 2021, the underlying picture is that vendors have only gradually returned to the market whereas demand has remained robust”. He added that although homebuilding was ahead of expectations, “given population growth is adding 30,000 units at a minimum each year, coupled with approximately 100,000 units of latent demand built up over the past decade, it will take some time before homebuilding can start to address the housing shortage”.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

LOCAL PROPERTY TAX VALUATIONS

2013 - 2021 Valuation band no.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Valuation band €

2022 - 2025

LPT Charge basic rate €

0 - 100,000 100,001 - 150,000 150,001 - 200,000 200,001 - 250,000 250,001 - 300,000 300,001 - 350,000 350,001 - 400,000 400,001 - 450,000 450,001 - 500,000 500,001 - 550,000

90 225 315 405 495 585 675 765 855 945

Valuation band no.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Valuation band €

LPT Charge basic rate €

0 - 200,000 200,001 - 262,500 262,501 - 350,000 350,001 - 437,500 437,501 - 525,000 525,001 - 612,500 612,501 - 700,000 700,001 - 787,500 787,501 - 875,000 875,001 - 962,500

*Higher bands not included

The majority of houses in this region will have the same liability from 2022 Send your address and eircode to us Tel: 090 6663700 Email: info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie We will advise on the value of your property and carry out a valuation, if required.

90 225 315 405 495 585 675 765 855 945

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

Business

Service Matters Ltd acquired by CWS International GmbH < DAN DOONER

Roscommon town-based Service Matters Limited has been acquired by German services group, CWS International GmbH, after a deal was confirmed on Thursday last (September 30th) for an undisclosed sum. CWS currently employs 11,000 people in 15 countries and generated a turnover of €1.2 billion last year. CWS International and its subsidiaries are owned by Franz Haniel and Cie. GmbH, which is headquartered in Duisburg, Germany. Commenting on the acquisition, Clement Higgins, Managing Director at CWS Ireland, said: “We are happy to announce the acquisition of majority stake in Service Matters Limited. SML is a perfect fit to CWS business and contributes to our sustainable growth strategy. By combining our strengths and dedication to customer satisfaction, we offer the best of both companies to become the leading solution and service provider in hygiene services in Ireland. “Additionally, I am pleased to

announce that Vincent Collins, the founder of Service Matters Limited, will remain with the business. Together we will accelerate growth in the Irish hygiene market. We warmly welcome our 88 new colleagues throughout Ireland to the CWS Group”. Established in 1997, Service Matters specialises in providing products and services to the hygiene, workwear, cleanroom, and facilities management sector. Service Matters are currently headquartered in Roscommon town with depots in Dublin, Limerick, and County Tyrone. The company’s founder, Vincent Collins, has said the deal will lead to greater investment and expansion of Service Matters which will prove beneficial to customers. “We are thrilled to become a part of the CWS Group. The synergies and ethos of the two businesses in Ireland are a natural fit, and we look forward to working with our new colleagues in delivering a cleaner, healthier and safer tomorrow for our people and our customers,” he said.

Service Matters Ltd. founder, Vincent Collins. The Roscommon-based business has been acquired by German company CWS International for an undisclosed sum.

Roscommon hoteliers call on Government to maintain vital supports for tourism sector

Local businesses invited to ‘cyber attack’ seminar

Small and medium businesses in Roscommon are being encouraged to sign up for a free seminar aimed at helping to prepare them against possible cyber attacks. Recent research showed that as many as three in five small and medium businesses have reported at least one cyber attack in the previous year while eight out of ten companies are not financially prepared to recover from such attacks. As part of a virtual event on Thursday, October 14th, firms will receive advice on how to prepare a ‘What if’ plan for dealing with attacks from leading cyber security expert, Andrea Manning, CEO of Irish company, CyberPie. Other high-profile speakers include Professor Lisa Short, Director of P&L Digital Edge, Nick Asvos of Palo Alto Networks, and Blessing Usoro of JP Morgan Chase and Company. The Cyber Security Summit 2021 virtual seminar will run from 11 am to 4 pm on Thursday, October 14th, while the presentation on helping small and medium businesses prepare their ‘What if’ plan will take place at 2 pm. Anyone wishing to register for the free event, or looking for more information, can do so by going to https://itag.ie/events/ cyber-security-summit/.

‘Creating Our Future’ Roadshow to visit Roscommon on Monday

The ‘Creating Our Future’ Roadshow will visit County Roscommon on Monday next (October 11th) as part of a nationwide tour which will involve the people of Ireland in a conversation on the role research will play in addressing opportunities, challenges and hopes for the future. Creating Our Future is asking people to submit their ideas about what researchers in Ireland should explore to create a better future through the dedicated online portal www.creatingourfuture.ie, which is open until November 30th. The Roscommon leg of the roadshow will take place on Monday, October 11th from 1.30 to 3 pm and more details are available at www.creatingourfuture.ie.

Pictured are Dominic White (Country Manager Ireland, Visa), Jill Deering (Jill&Gill), Gillian Henderson (Jill&Gill), and Pamela Laird (Moxi Loves).

Calling all Roscommon-based female entrepreneurs and business owners! Visa is launching its global programme, ‘She’s Next, Empowered by Visa,’ in Ireland to support women-led small and independent businesses in Roscommon, many of whom have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Europe’s inaugural She’s Next programme will provide funding options for women business-owners in Ireland, with the chance to apply for one of five grants totalling €25,000. In partnership with the go-to funding marketplace for women-owned businesses IFundWomen, women entrepreneurs, across all industries and sectors, are invited to apply for one of five €5,000 grants. The businesses will also be awarded mentorship and coaching for one year to support them with moving their business forward.

Applications are invited under five different categories: micro business (sole proprietorships or microbusinesses with no more than two employees), earlystage business (businesses founded and incorporated within the last twenty-eight months), and small business (any small business with less than 50 employees), as well as an additional two categories for innovation (businesses in science, technology, engineering or medicine that are focused on developing new technologies), and social impact (small businesses and not for profit organisations that have made a positive impact on their communities). Applications are now open until November 2nd. To enter, applicants are asked to submit details about their business and online presence at IFundWomen.com/VisaIreland.

Local hoteliers are urging the Government to maintain supports for the tourism sector following an estimated €5.3 billion collapse in revenues nationwide since the Covid-19 pandemic began. With occupancy figures nationally expected to reach just 32 per cent for the year, compared to 73 per cent for 2019, hoteliers in Roscommon are calling on the Government to retain existing business and employment supports, saying they are vital for the recovery of the sector and the wider tourism industry. Michael Yates, Chair of the IHF’s Roscommon Branch said: “As Ireland’s largest indigenous employer, tourism supported almost 270,000 livelihoods including 1,100 in Roscommon prior to the pandemic. Our industry has been hardest hit by the restrictions, and the ensuing economic and financial impact of Covid has been devastating. “The Government supports so far have been critical, and a lifeline for many businesses, helping to restore employment and support the viability of businesses until we get back to a more stable footing. However, we need a firm commitment that they will be retained until the impact of the pandemic has passed. Tourism will recover, but it will take time. “A failure to act decisively now would have major economic implications given the reliance of many parts of the country on tourism for prosperity and employment, including in Roscommon”. The IHF is also calling for the 9 per cent tourism VAT rate to be retained until after 2025. “Most travel agents are already contracting for 2023, yet they have no certainty around tourism VAT, and this is undermining advance bookings and ultimately tourism’s recovery,” Mr. Yates said.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

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Stephen Casey

Construction l

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV Inspections l Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

NO FIX NO FEE

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

GARDENING

DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

EDT Lessons Available

Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Telephone:

094 96 20099

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

Mobile:

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY Are you affected by Anger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life? Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you? Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

www.parklawntreeservices.

gmail.com Reg No: EI000083

l l

For all your fencing needs. GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

Tel: 087 2172281

087 2346364

JOE HEALY

087 2721193 LIFE COACH CALL FOR CONSULTATION/QUOTATION Mobile: 086 2215570 Email: info@abbeytreeservices.ie

GATELY GARDENING

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

Des Kelly Fencing Over 20 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Cresoted Posts • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on

087 2860428

Phone:

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

Phone John on

• Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

D.A.F.M. Approved

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

Tree Services

FARMING

• Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock of parts available and can be fitted on sprayers All sprayers are required to be tested every 3 years according to Dept. of Agriculture regulations. Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@

GARDENING

GARDENING SERVICES

Paul McStay

086 8936012

fergalkelly@live.com

COMPUTERS

Submit your Classified online

CONSTRUCTION

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

l General Maintenance Dangerous Tree Removal l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped l Wood Chipping l Fully Insured Contact Alan on

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

Mindset Life Coach Online

l Personal

Development/Life Coaching l Membership Club l Workshops l Retreats CONTACT

Emer Watchorn

BSc. Arch Tech, HDip Executive & Life Coaching

087 7718842 website:

emerwatchorn lifecoach.com

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

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries. Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

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

PLUMBING

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)

Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Colic • Eczema • Constipation • Migraine • Back Problems • Stress • Infertility • Insomnia • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Pain • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Emotional Disorders - Fertility Reflexology - Ante Natal Reflexology - Baby Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Special Needs Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

The local paper!

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

Classifieds

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

PLANNINGS

KITTEN < HOME FOR KITTEN: A friendly grown Kitten seeking a home. Tel: 087 9695924

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION: Hello. Do you recognise this woman? Her name is Eileen Patricia Mulrennan (maiden name), and believed to be born between 1945-1947 — which would make her around 75 years old. The surname originates from Roscommon/Mayo area. During the 60s she lived and worked in London as a still maid at the Grosvenor Hotel. If you have any information please contact: Lily. yates@live.com

PERSONAL < WANTED: Wonderful lady to keep me company, Galway/Roscommon area. Tel: 087 2327295

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Cyril Towey and Katie O’Rourke intend to apply for planning permission for development at Cashelard, Ballaghadeereen, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of construction of a single storey 4 bed dwelling, domestic garage/fuel store, septic tank and percolation area to en12566-1 standards as per EPA CoP 2021, rendered masonry front entrance gates and rendered masonry road side wall, general site landscaping and associated site works.

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

TEL: 086 83 72 933 www.DurkinDesign.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Barry and Christina Cullinane intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of domestic garage/store, and games room to rear of dwelling, attic conversion to bedrooms, bathroom in existing dwelling previously granted planning permission/approval under P&D Ref: 04/1081 associated work and services at Carrowgarve, Frenchpark, 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.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Aidín Hegarty and Owen Wallace intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, the installation of a sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works, at Erra Townland, Clondra, 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 Web: www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Paul Lally and Ciara Hynes intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect a dwelling house, provide a sewerage system and a treatment plant, to provide secondary and tertiary treatment and all associated works at Lismurtagh Td., Tulsk, Co. Roscommon.

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Katie Hardiman and Kevin Kilkenny are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house with garage and septic tank along with all ancillary site development works at Ard Dugra, Bealnamullia, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

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

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designers – Consulting Engineers

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Gordon and Lia Shepherd are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following: 1) Demolish existing derelict dwelling and shed. 2) Permission to construct new dwelling, domestic garage and new entrance along with boundary treatments, proprietary treatment system with tertiary unit and all associated ancillary site works at Breanabeg, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon, F45 DX26.

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

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available

To have your advert seen by over 70,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper! OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

Aoife Reilly BSc Pod, MChSI, SCPI (registered with VHI, AVIVA, LAYA & GloHealth)

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009 FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designers – Consulting Engineers

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

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

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience

For Bookings Contact:

College Road, For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803

(087) 707 5803 (Saturday & evening appointments available)

Co Galway H53 D7W8

(Saturday & evening appointments available) Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, Co. Galway H53 D7W8 Open under Goverment + HSE Guidelines

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732 < PRIVATE ROOM: Wanted for private practice, ideally with access to a bathroom. Must be in a quiet building, Roscommon town/ Ballyleague area preferred. Apply to PO Box No 2082 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon < TO LET: One bedroom flat to rent, own entrance, suit working gent/lady or retired person. In Knockroe, Castlerea. Tel: 086 3907719 < TO LET: One bedroom ground floor apartment to let, Bawn Street, Strokestown, newly renovated. Tel: 086 8106655

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Mark Kilgallon B.Sc Podiatry (Hons) M.Ch.S.I. Department of Health Approved

EVERY FRIDAY St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

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

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

Classifieds TARMACADAM

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

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

Harpur Bros

Electrician Available TOP QUALITY TURF

FOR ALL YOUR DRIVEWAY NEEDS

We can help you design your driveway from start to finish. Kerbing, drainage, tarmacadam. Ask about Resin bond many different colours to choose from.

Contact Sean McDermott 085 7604342 or Owen Harpur 086 8953884 for a free quotation

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

083 0684011

< W O O D / F I R E W O O D : High quality seasoned split hardwood timber, suitable for stoves and open-fire. Available in 500kg bulk bag and 25kg bag. Very competitively priced and delivery can be discussed. Call 086 3312411 after 6pm.

TUITION

Now enrolling l Face to face grinds

l Experienced Higher

Level Teacher l Excellent results record l Limited places available Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

< GRINDS: French and German grinds, catered for up to Leaving Certificate (Honours). Tel: 087 3515985

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas) < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag• Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free. • 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439

< TURF FOR SALE: In tonne bags, delivery to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Price €50. Bag and delivery also included in price. Tel: 086 8534011

USEFUL SERVICES

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

USEFUL SERVICES

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

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

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

Evo Roofers Covering Athlone, Galway and surrounding areas

Free Quotations provided

Leaky Roof or Gutter? Call 085 2427727 Our Services: • New Roofing • Lead Valleys • Emergency Repairs • Attic Insulation • Fascia Soffits • Flat Roofs • Guttering/Downpipes • Chimney Repair • Ridge Pointing • Roof Cleaning

www.evoroofers.com email: evoroofing122@gmail.com

Phone: 090 6400177

HANDY MAN AVAILABLE Power Washing Gutters Cleaned l Fitting Shower Doors l Bathroom Accessories l Tiling and Timber Flooring l Flat Pack Furniture Assembled l General Gardening Maintenance and Clean-up etc.

USEFUL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

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

For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

087 9657933 or 090 6626752

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

087 2478609

PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

The company requires a technician with electrical switchgear building experience to join this quality focused team responsible for the following tasks: • Assemble mechanical and electrical components per a detailed electrical/mechanical design package. • Wire up internal components including ACB’s ,MCB’s MCCB’s, RCBO’s as part of an inclusive skid. • Build, punch and form copper busbar components. • Assemble mechanical enclosures. • Execute QAQC checklists as part of the internal quality guide lines.

PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

COOK/CHEF REQUIRED

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

MINIMUM 2 YEARS EXPERIENCE.

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:

086 2437376

P’Nuts

Agriculture powerwashing Service • Slatted sheds • Sheep sheds • Yards • Pens Dont delay, book today Housing fast approaching Call Padraig on

086 602 7509

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER SERVICE

ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477

Immediate start

Les Petites Tartres Café Restaurant Main St, Athleague l Tel: 090 6663343

2 years experience in a similar role Good communication skills l A passion for quality food l l

If you think you can bring some creative talent to our team, please contact Anita on 087 2742844 or send your CV to Lespetitestartres@gmail.com

Full-time BAR PERSON Required with minimum of 1 years experience for busy Pub in Roscommon Town. Please contact: 086 2582657

Call Mike

Experienced Electrical Power distribution and Switchgear technician required for a new engineering, manufacturing and design company located in the heart of the midlands, Athlone.

Full training will be given to the ideal candidate. Please contact hr@centralswitchgear.ie • Tel: 0906498112 www.centralswitchgear.ie

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Appointments

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

087 9795226

Roof Cleaning and Resealing All types of roofs cleaned down, painted Tegral Roof paint applied All work fully guaranteed Fast and efficent

Telephone: 089 9899 912

MECHANIC required immediately at Lambert ATV Sales Full-time/Part-time position Please contact Noel on:

087 2261091

GENERAL OPERATIVE Required for Agricultural Business in Castlerea. References required. Telephone: 094 9622930

Classifieds

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

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

Appointments

Afterschool Afterschool Childcare Assistant Afterschool Childcare RequiredAssistant Afterschool Required Childcare Assistant Childcare Assistant Required The Afterschool Childcare Assistant will provide afterschool and homework supports to children and young people on the Big Blue The Afterschool Childcare Assistant will provide Play Bus service.

afterschool and homework supports to children and young people on the Big Blue Play Bus service.

Required The Afterschool Childcare Assistant will provide afterschool and Minimum FETAC Level 5 in Childcare and homework supports to children and young people on the Big Blue

The Afterschool Childcare Assistant will provide andand 1 years’ experience in Childcare or Play Bus service. Minimum FETAC Level 5afterschool in Childcare 1 year’s experience in Childcare or Afterschool setting homework supports to children and young people on the Big Blue Afterschool setting Play Bus service. A full clean driving licence and own transport is essential A full clean driving licence and own transport is essential Location:South South Roscommon Location: Roscommon Minimum FETAC Level 5 in10.5 Childcare and 1 years’ experience in Childcare or Working hours: hours per week (4 afternoons) Working hours: 10.5 hours persetting week (4 afternoons) School term applies Afterschool Garda will be is required A fullreferences clean driving licence andvetting own transport essential SCHOOL TERM APPLIES Minimum FETAC Level 5 inSatisfactory Childcare and 1and years’ experience in Childcare or Location: South Roscommon

Afterschool setting Satisfactory references and vetting will be required Working hours: 10.5 Garda hours per week (4 afternoons)

A full clean driving licence and own transport is essential Please apply with CV and cover letter by email to School term applies Location: Southreferences Roscommon Satisfactory and Garda vetting will be required Please with CVweek cover letter by email recruitment@ridc.ie or before 1and pm,(4Wednesday 13th October 2021to: Working hours:apply 10.5 on hours per afternoons) School term applies Please apply CV and cover letter by email to Posts arewith subject towill funding Satisfactory references and Garda vetting be required

recruitment@ridc.ie

recruitment@ridc.ie on Wednesday or before pm, Wednesday 13 October 2021 on or before 1Partnership pm, 13th October 2021 Roscommon LEADER is an1Equal Opportunities Employer th

Posts are subject to Pleaseisapply CVHealthy and cover letter by email to Posts are subject tofunding funding This project fundedwith by the Ireland and managed by Roscommon LEADER Partnership

Roscommon LEADER Partnership isisan Equal Opportunities Employer th Opportunities Roscommon an13 Equal recruitment@ridc.ie on or beforeLEADER 1 pm,Partnership Wednesday October 2021Employer This project is funded by the Healthy Ireland and managed by Roscommon LEADER Partnership This project is funded by the Healthy Ireland and managed by Roscommon LEADER Partnership Posts are subject to funding Roscommon LEADER Partnership is an Equal Opportunities Employer This project is funded by the Healthy Ireland and managed by Roscommon LEADER Partnership

SITUATIONS VACANT

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB?

< LADY REQUIRED: For domestic house cleaning once a fortnight near Roscommon town. Must have own transport. Tel: 087 2798704 < GENERAL LABOURER: Required for Tarmacadam work in Roscommon area, must have experience. Tel: 086 4007158

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper! TELEPHONE: 090

66 34633

EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

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

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

AtYourService BLINDS

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

CARS

LIFE COACH

uPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

Repairs

Gerry Martin:

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090

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

Chimney Problems

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted. End of life certs can be provided. Also scrap metal

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

086 2203335

PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (E.G. RETIREMENT, NEW JOB, SEPARATION, ETC)

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

S tephen H oare

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

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

PAINTING

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

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

Cleaning Services • Roscommon

PAINTING CONTRACTORS

DOOR AND WINDOW SERVICE

• Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’

Ballinasloe, Co. Galway Cleaning Sheds, Painting Roofs and Hay Barns

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

Michael: 089 9661849

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

We steam clean all Domestic Roofs remove moss and can apply dye to roof tiles

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

Contact Pat Hanley on

QUARRY

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

Midlands Construction Estimating Service Then look no further - contact us.

CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (INCLUDING PUBLIC SECTOR) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (INCLUDING COMPETENCY-BASED QUESTIONS) CHANGING JOB / GET THAT PROMOTION!

Chris’s Window Service

Tel: 087 0944027

Are you a Building Contractor or Civil Engineering Contractor who does not have time to price that project. Is the paperwork too much to apply for that framework or project.

GUIDING & COACHING TOWARDS SUCCESS

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

CONSTRUCTION

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

086 8229606 Keen Prices

Gmail: gerrymartin198@gmail.com

CLEANING - Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

Window and Door Replacement Double Glazing Units Replaced Maintenance Carried Out to Existing Windows and Doors

CAROLINE BURKE Career & Life Coaching

INSURANCE CLAIMS

INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE CLAIMS REPAIR LTD. CLAIMS CLAIMS REPAIR REPAIR LTD. LTD. INSURANCE CLAIMS LTD. CLAIMSREPAIR REPAIR LTD.

WARD Martin Hibbitt Martin Martin Hibbitt Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LABROS Martin Hibbitt 091 380900 QUARRY 087 7371280 Martin Hibbitt

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Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

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AtYourService PROPERTY

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES CONNAUGHTON Josephine (Josie) Main Street, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Retired Postmaster of Athleague P.O. Who passed away on 8th of October 2020 (1st Anniversary)

RECYCLING

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures Destruction Certs Issued l Sale of Second Hand Parts l Contracted to all Major Car Companies l Farm Machinery, Old Gates l Metals, Iron Baths l Old Cooking Ranges l Weighbridge on Site

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

C astlerea ELV R ecycling L td ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090

6621220

VETERINARY

Corbooley, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

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

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

• Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

Irene (2nd Anniversary, whom God took home 5th October 2019)

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

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

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.

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

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, 9th October at 7pm.

KING Breda Racecourse Road, Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

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

Creemully, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon. 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.

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 087 2596055 You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions

Please ring to make an appointment for the small animal clinic.

MORRIS Thomas (2nd Anniversary)

Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague, on Friday, 8th of October at 7pm.

DELANEY William (Bill)

AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

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

P: 090 66 70996 M: 085 2162555 E:rospropertyservices@gmail.com

BEIRNE Irene and Sinéad

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

Always remembered by your family. Anniversary Mass will be held in Fuerty Church on Sunday ,10th October at 11.30am.

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

THANKSGIVINGS PRECIOUS MOTHER OF JESUS Precious Mother of Jesus, Mother of Divine Grace, you who can find a way when there is no way, please hear my prayer and grant me my request. H.B.

DEEHAN Tony and Beaty Scramogue, Co. Roscommon.

(Tony 29th (Beaty 2nd Anniversary) Anniversary) In loving memory of Tony who passed away on October 24th, 1992 and Beaty who passed away on October 7th, 2019 Those we loved don’t go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, still very dear

Remembered always by their loving family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, October 10th at 10.30am in Scramogue Church.

FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Remembering our dear dad Tom Morris of Carrowroe, Roscommon, who died on October 13th, 2019 and who is missed every day. Tom’s Second Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town at 11am on Saturday, 9th October.

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. H.B.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McDERMOTT Lena

HANNON Bridie

Golf Links Road, Roscommon. (8th Anniversary)

Muckinagh, Ballygar, Co. Galway (10th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 11th October 2011

In loving memory of Lena, who passed away on 7th October 2013 Always remembered by your family and friends.

Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered everyday. No longer in our lives to share but in our hearts you are always there.

Missed and remembered by her family, Michael, Mary, Brid, Sean and Sheila and grandchildren, extended family, friends and neighbours.

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

O’DONOVAN Seamus “Parkhead”, Celtic Avenue, Roscommon 30th Anniversary occurs on 10th October

May the winds of Heaven blow softly, and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you and wish that you were here.

Always sadly missed by Anne, Paul, Simon, Eoin, Tara, Mary and John.

KENNY Michael Whitepark, Curraghboy (6th Anniversary) Who died on 9th October 2015

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Deep are the memories, precious they stay, no passing of time, can take them away.

Sadly missed by your loving wife Chrissie, daughters Antoinette, Sheila, Martina and Anita, sons-in-law, grandchildren and all the family. Anniversary Mass on Wednesday, 27th October at 7pm in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy.

WALSH Kevin Donamon, Roscommon (20th Anniversary)

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

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

The local paper!

Creevy Road, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

Dad, twenty years have gone and still we miss you each day. But we feel the love you send us and guide us on our way. In our hearts we hold a special place, until we can once again feel your embrace.

Sadly missed by Laura, Ciaran and Carrie

LOHAN Mary

CROGHAN Thomas

Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway Who died on 13th October 2016 (5th Anniversary)

Late of Galway Road and Roxboro Roscommon.

In loving memory of Thomas who passed away on the 5th October 2018. MOTHER

Each one of us thought the world of you, for us you always did your best, God grant your soul eternal rest. Quickly and quietly came the call, without farewell you left us all. A sudden call from God on high, you had no chance to say goodbye. Without farewell you fell asleep, but memories of you we’ll always keep. We did not know that morning, what sorrow the day would bring, when a heart of gold stopped beating, and we couldn’t do a thing. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone, for part of us went with you, the day God called you home. We never fail to think of you, we never cease to care, we only wish we could go home, and find you waiting there.

Forever loved and missed by her family.

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

(3rd Anniversary)

O’BEIRNE Maureen Carnagh, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon (18th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Maureen who died on 8th October 2003. R.I.P.

In loving memory of our dear mother Philomena. A loving mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother too.

Mass offered.

or call us on 090 6634633 Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

FLANAGAN (nee Kelly) Philomena

Quietly today your memory is kept No need for words We will never forget. When thoughts go back, as they always do. We treasure the memories, We have of you.

Always remembered by your loving family. May she Rest in Peace. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar, Co. Galway on Tuesday, 12th October at 7.30pm.

CASEY Bernadine Grange, Four Mile House, Roscommon. Treasured memories of a dear wife, mother and grandmother who passed away 6th October 2011 (10th Anniversary)

May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, may the rain fall softly upon your fields. And until we meet again may God keep you in the hollow of His hand.

Sadly missed by his wife Joan, sons, daughters, sister, grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. Cuimhníonn do theaghlach grámhar i gcónaí ort. Anniversary Mass in Derrane Church on Saturday, 9th October at 7pm.

Silent memories keep you near as time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may be gone, in our thoughts and prayers you still live on.

Sadly missed by your husband Colin, sons Ryan and Charlie and daughter Chloe. Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 10th October at 11.30am.

Maureen Deep are the memories precious they stay no passing of time can take them away.

Remembered by Maura and all the O’Beirne family.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

Within our hearts we keep a special place for you, and try to do our best to live as you would want us to. As we loved you, so we miss you, in our memory you are near, loved, remembered, longed for always, with the passing of another year.

Dearly missed by your husband Joe, sons Damien and Declan, daughter-inlaw Helen, your beloved grandson Senan and your extended family. Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Four Mile House on Friday, 8th October 2021 at 8pm.

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

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

Sports PEOPLE

Tremane’s Niall Keenan looks to get a shot on target as Four Roads’ Conor Coyle dives in to block during Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final in Athleague. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Seamus Duke’s Championship Watch Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Semi-Finals St. Brigid’s v Pádraig Pearses at Dr. Hyde Park on Saturday at 4.45 pm Any way you look at this fixture it’s a mouth-watering prospect. It’s a battle between the winners of the last two titles, a repeat of last year’s final, and a match that will see some of the finest players in the county on view. Having won the title in such style last year, it looked like Brigid’s would rule the club scene in the county for many years to come with such a young and talented team, however there was shockwaves throughout the county when they were well beaten by Oran in the first round. Was their 2020 success a flash in the pan? In subsequent rounds, the Kiltoom men steadied themselves and qualified for the quarter-finals without any fuss. It has taken them a while to warm to this championship but they seem to be coming into form at the right time. Pearses’ journey through this championship has been remarkably similar to that of Brigid’s. Pat Flanagan’s men were poor to say the least early on and they just about made it to the quarter finals. The big question was had this Pearses team, the first in the history of the club to win a senior championship, run out of steam? Their performances against Tulsk and Boyle have given an emphatic answer to that question. Pearses won both matches easily and they seem to be making a championship run at just the right time. This showdown is extremely difficult to call. However, I am going to give a slight preference to St. Brigid’s as they outsmarted a good Strokestown team to reach the last four while Pearses’ win against Boyle proved rather more straightforward. Prediction: St. Brigid’s

Clann na nGael v Roscommon Gaels at Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday at 4 pm The outcome of this semi-final is much easier to predict, right? Wrong. Clann are deserved hot favourites, but they will need to be very careful not to take Roscommon Gaels for granted. Clann have, for the most part, answered all the questions asked of them so far. They came from behind to beat Strokestown and they easily accounted for Pearses. They were poor against Western Gaels in a drawn match but they had already qualified for the quarter-finals at that stage. But it was their performance against Michael Glavey’s that has made most people sit up and take notice. A magnificent 25 points and a totally dominant display has catapulted the Johnstown club into the ‘hot favourites’ position, not only to win on Sunday, but to capture the Fahey Cup as well. The Gaels were well beaten by Boyle in the first round of fixtures while a late goal saw them scrape a narrow win against Elphin. They then managed just four points against Michael Glavey’s, but three crucial goals saw them over the line and into the last eight. Against Oran, they played to their strengths; defending in numbers and attacking at pace to edge into the semi-finals by a point. With several players out injured and more unavailable, it is a serious achievement for Deckie Hoare’s men to be still in the championship. They also have a number of very experienced players who are playing well. This match is a clash of two wily managers. Liam Kearins will be determined to lead Clann to the title after the disappointment of last year while Deckie Hoare will have a plan to deny the rampant Clann attack. One thing is for certain: Clann will not score 25 points in this game. However, looking at both teams, they have better players

throughout and it is hard not to see them coming through by a few points. Prediction: Clann na nGael

Mulryan Construction IFC Semi-Finals St. Dominic’s v Clann na nGael at Dr. Hyde Park on Saturday at 2.15 pm The possibility of Clann na nGael winning both the senior and intermediate titles is still a very real one, and St. Dominic’s will have to be at their best to deny the Johnstown man a place in the final here. Clann have several very experienced and accomplished performers throughout their team. But Dominic’s have been motoring along nicely in the championship and they are fiercely determined to get back into the final after last year’s disappointment. It’s difficult to split these two teams but I give a hesitant nod to Dominic’s who might just have the edge up front. Prediction: St. Dominic’s Castlerea St. Kevin’s v St. Faithleach’s at Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday at 1.30 pm This is another very attractive prospect this weekend. Castlerea have come in somewhat under the radar, but they are in the last four on merit and they were especially impressive in their win against Éire Óg in the quarterfinals. Faithleach’s have discovered over the past two years that getting out of the Intermediate championship is not as easy as it might have looked when they were first relegated from the senior ranks. They were given the fright of their lives by Fuerty in the quarter-finals and that searching test should stand to them on Sunday. Castlerea will provide very tough opposition for Faithleach’s on Sunday but I fancy the Ballyleague side to go through. Prediction: St. Faithleach’s

Key players this weekend… Shane Cunnane (St. Brigid’s)

Diarmuid Murtagh (St. Faithleach’s)

Shane Cunnane is beginning to show the form that many of us have believed was there all along. Returning to the panel this year, he has forged a formidable midfield pairing with Eddie Nolan which will be key as Brigid’s look to retain their title this year.

The main talisman for the Ballyleague outfit, Diarmuid Murtagh has hit top form at the business end of the Intermediate Football Championship. Scorer of twelve points last time out against Fuerty, the Roscommon forward also hit the crucial winning score.

Ciaran Lennon (Clann na nGael) Clann na nGael forward Ciaran Lennon is already a worthy contender for any ‘Player of the Championship’ accolade even at this early stage. His performances have been most impressive as Clann emerged as hot favourites for this year’s championship.

Davy Murray (Pádraig Pearses)

Adam McDermott (Castlerea St. Kevin’s) The Castlerea forward notched two goals and four points in his side’s quarter-final win over Éire Óg and will be expected to take the challenge to St. Faithleach’s this weekend.

Jack Lohan (St. Dominic’s)

The Roscommon defender has been in serious form this year and gave a ‘man of the match’ performance against Boyle in the last round. Pearses will need all his know-how this weekend.

Just one of the Knockcroghery club’s many promising young players, Lohan’s tenacity will be instrumental to St. Dominic’s hopes of overcoming Clann and ultimately banishing the ghosts of their 2020 final heartbreak.

Mark Healy (Roscommon Gaels)

David Flynn (Clann na nGael)

Mark Healy is among a cohort of experienced players who have carried the flag for the town team this year. While they will be a very difficult team to break down, Healy has proven to be a very effective target man this term.

Roscommon’s 2006 All-Ireland winning minor captain, Flynn has experience a new lease of life at centre half-back this year. Clann will need him at his very best to deny St. Dominic’s a second successive final appearance.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

SportsPeople

Ballaghaderreen’s Community Games success! Well done to all Ballaghaderreen Community Games competitors who qualified for the county athletics finals back in August. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, Regional Athletics (Track) Finals were held on September 4th. Local qualifiers included Kian Duffy (U-12 Boys’ 600m); Ghayas Abou Mesto (U-10 Boys’ Hurdles), and Katelyn Regan (U-16 Girls’ 100m). Congratulations to Katelyn who won bronze in the regional final. The National Athletics Finals took place on September 25th at Carlow Institute of Technology. Amer Almulhem competed in the U-12 Boys’ Ball Throw competition. In the first round, Amer was one of the top eight competitors

from 24 counties represented. After the final round throws, he place third to win bronze with an excellent throw of 52.95 metres. Congratulations to Amer on his success in this event. Ballaghaderreen also had two teams in action in this year’s Connacht Finals, which took place in Roscommon. In the U-12 Girls’ Gaelic football event, Ballaghaderreen defeated Charlestown (Mayo) in the Connacht final to book their place in the National Finals this Saturday (9th) in the University of Limerick. Ballaghaderreen: Aicha Bouhouch, Jennifer Connor, Aoibhinn Conway, Sadhbh Dillon, Saerlaith Dillon, Ava Dooney,

Kayleigh Duffy, Abbie Madden, Ceola McDonagh, Zoe McDonagh, Kaylan McHugh, Aine O’Brien, Melissa Sharkey and Caoimhe Taylor. The U-16 Mixed Skittles team also qualified for Saturday’s finals. Team: Adrina Gallagher, Killian Gallagher, Chloe Kilroy, Dominick Naughton, Matthew Naughton, Katelyn Regan and Dylan Towey. Good luck to both teams!

Review of the Week

At Bellewstown last Thursday in the special Supporting DAFA Handicap Frankie Dettori rode Trueba to victory for trainer Johnny Murtagh, both of whom rode for Barney Curley in whose memory the race was run. Trueba tracked Meishar until the furlong marker where Dettori pushed on and held on from the renewed effort of Meishar by ½l with the fast-finishing Red Heel a head away in third. Dettori treated the delighted crowd to his famous ‘flying’ dismount in the winner’s enclosure. A shock result in the Prix de l’Arc as the German trained Torquator Tasso beat the Dermot Weld’s Tarnawara and Hurricane Lane ¾l and a short head in a thrilling finish. Torquator Tasso, 66/1, produced a top-class performance to become only the third German-trained winner of the great race. Ado McGuinness’ gamble of supplementing A Case Of You for the Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp Longines paid off with a last-gasp triumph in the famous five-furlong dash. Under a great ride by Ronan Whelan the 3-Y-O got up on the line from Air De Valse and Glass Slippers by a short head and 3l to give his first Group 1 winner and give Ireland a first success in the Abbaye since Maarek in 2013.

(News from local golf clubs)

Athlone

Pictured is Amer Almulhem (Ballaghaderreen), bronze medal winner at the 2021 Community Games National Athletics Finals which took place on September 25th at Carlow Institute of Technology.

Horses for Courses The racing today is in Co Tipperary at Thurles with a flat card away at 1.15 pm. Tomorrow there are flat cards at Dundalk tomorrow off at 4.45 pm and a meeting at the Downpatrick over the jumps starting at 1.45 pm. On Saturday, there is racing in Fairyhouse with their first jumps meeting of the season off at 1.20 pm. Limerick runs the first of two-day meeting with flat racing on Saturday, away at 1.05 pm, and jump racing starting at 1.10 pm on Sunday. Sunday also hosts a flat meeting at headquarters, The Curragh stalls opening for the first at 12.50 pm. Tuesday hosts the first of a two-day national hunt autumn festival at Punchestown. Ger Lyons’ unbeaten 2-Y-O Straight Answer has been supplemented at a cost of £32,000 for Saturday’s Darley Dewhurst Stakes, with jockey Colin Keane set to take the ride if he misses Limerick. The juvenile will face the Newmarket 2,000 Guineas market leader Native Trail. Straight Answer has won both his starts at the Curragh and Fairyhouse. This weekend sees the Cesarewitch run on both sides of the pond, Newmarket on Saturday and the Curragh on Sunday. Willie Mullins runs MC Muldoon with Ryan Moore in the plate, and he is favourite at Newmarket. On Friday, ITV 4 cover five races from Newmarket including the Group 1 Fillies Mile, two from York and two from Chepstow. On Saturday, ITV cover four races from Newmarket including the Group 1 Darley Dewhurst Stakes for 2-Y-Os and three from York.

Shor t putts

by Tom Red

Padraig Lennon was the winner of the AWGS on Thursday last with 31 points. Other results: Class 1: Denis O’Donoghue (29 points); Class 2: Terry Carmody (26 points); Class 3: PJ Martin (23). The Veterans’ prize was won by David Fenton (27 points). The recent Golfing Golden Girls 18-hole Stableford was won by Anna Walsh with 38 points. Anne Egan Farrell was second with 34 and Maeve Donnelly was third with 33. Noirin O’Rourke won the recent 9-hole competition with 19 points and Anna Walsh was triumphant in the 97 Club 12-hole with 23. The Roscommon Cup Trophy event took place in Athlone on Saturday last with six teams from the county in competition. There was a nail-biting finish as Athlone and Castlerea tied on the same points. It took a back six countback before Castlerea emerged as the winners. Congratulations to Castlerea! The results of the recent club fundraising draw were as follows: 1st prize: Alice Maher; 2nd prize: Willie Galvin; 3rd prize: Aidan Byrne; 4th prize: Imelda Sheeran; 5th prize: Colin Fitzgerald; 6th prize: Martin O’Connor; 7th prize: Tom O’Reilly.

Castlerea

Frankie Dettori celebrates winning aboard Trueba at Bellewstown.

Racing News Colin Keane is within one winner of Joseph O’Brien’s record of 126 winners ridden in a season after he won the Concorde Stakes at on Maker Of Kings last Tuesday in Tipperary. The champion jockey failed to get a winner yesterday at Navan and hopes to equal if not pass the mark at Thurles today or Dundalk tomorrow. Amateur rider Lisa O’Neill, who rides for Gordon Elliott, her rode the 100th winner over her career between point-to-points and on the track when steering his Smooth Player to victory in the bumper at Galway on Tuesday. Paul Townend is back on the sidelines after dislocating his shoulder in a fall off Jessica Harrington-trained Port Stanley at Listowel. The

champion jockey had just returned from injury in July parted company with Port Stanley in the beginner’s chase. Townend dislocated his shoulder.

Point-to-Point News Saturday’s point-to-point racing is at Moira in County Armagh with 73 horses entered. On Sunday, racing is at Dartfield Equestrian Centre outside Loughrea, Co Galway with 90 entries, both meetings scheduled to start at 2 pm. Spectators are allowed but they have to preregister, get an access QR code and present it before entering the venue. Registration will open at 9 am on a Friday in advance of each weekend’s racing on www.p2p.ie. All attendees, industry participants and spectators will have to register.

Frankie Dettori in the famous Yellow Sam phone box at Bellewstown with Barney Curley’s fedora.

The Castlerea Ladies were to the fore again, securing victory in the Roscommon Cup which took place at Athlone Golf Club recently. Castlerea tied with the hosts on 399 before being announced the winners after a countback. Lady Captain Kathy accepted the cup from Sinéad Devine, the competition’s founder. Team members: Kathy Burke (Captain), Maura Kelly, Patricia Callaghan, Deirdre Hawkshaw, Ruth Sullivan, and Teresa Meaney. Teresa had the best score of the day, netting her first prize. Ballaghaderreen will host the competition in 2022. Closer to home, the O’Conor Don Cup was won by M. Doyle with 66 nett while P. Hester (also 66) finished in second after countback. Castlerea Golf Club extends its deepest sympathy to the Farrelly and Tully families on the death of Hilary Farrelly (née Tully), sister-in-law of Maura Tully, and aunt of Derek. May her gentle soul rest in peace.

Carrick

The Golfer of the Year leaderboard in Carrick is as follows: 1st: Shamzuri Hanifa (55 points); 2nd: Daniel Egan (40 points); 3rd: Keith Duignan (40 points). Rookie Golfer of the Year: 1st: Emmett Herbert (113 points); 2nd: Cian Harmon (110 points); 3rd: David Clarke (63 points). Pat Gannon was the winner of the recent Arigna Fuels competition with 45 points while Owen Gibney was second with 37 and Sean Bohan was third with 36. Daniel Egan had the best gross score with 35 points. Congratulations to Eoin Gibney and Michael Gallagher on reaching the final of the Lynch Cup. The final will be played this week. The Gents’ Captain’s Away Day is set for November 6th at Carne Golf Club. There are 40 tee times booked and the cost is €35 per person. Booking is to be confirmed by Monday next and the club office is open from 8 am to 2 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Queries to johncoffey3@yahoo.com.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

SportsPeople Silver for Feeley in National Road Race

Pictured is the Four Roads minor team which defeated Salthill in the Galway Minor C final played at St. Brendan’s Loughrea last weekend. Back row (L-r): Gavin Meares, Brian Mannion, Ben Kelly, Eoin Campbell, Jack Tully, Oisin Flynn, Liam Óg Coyle, Jimmy Hoey, Brian Killian, Tommy Morris, Conor Kelly, and Mick Morris. Front row (L-r): Eoghan Morris, Oisin Hynes, Ethan Kelly, Jamie Kelly, James Dillon (captain), Conor Morris, Daniel Bolger, Sean Mannion, Rory Coyle, and Luka Finneran.

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs off to a winner in Connacht League Tuam RFC 7 Creggs RFC 21 (Connacht League): Creggs Firsts got off to a flier in their opening league fixture of the new campaign with an impressive 14-point win away to Tuam last Sunday. Two converted first-half tries gave the visitors a comfortable 21-0 lead at the half-time interval and while Creggs pressed for more in the second half, it was Tuam who narrowed the deficit with a converted try of their own. Both sides had further chances in the closing stages but it was Creggs who ran out the convincing winners. Creggs now have a well-earned rest this weekend before travelling to Connemara for round two. On Saturday 23rd, Creggs will play at home to Munster side Kilfeacle in the All-Ireland Junior Cup before a home semifinal against Connemara in Cawley Cup on the weekend of November 6th/7th. Meanwhile, the Creggs Development team will get their Connacht J1C campaign underway in a couple of weeks and new and returning players are welcome on Tuesday and Friday nights at 8 pm and 8.15 pm respectively.

GoFundMe appeal for Croghan fighter A GoFundMe campaign has been set up by Morris Martial Arts, Carrick-on-Shannon, Leitrim, on behalf of one of their athletes Jonathan Beirne from Croghan, Co. Roscommon. Jonathan has recently been selected to compete for Ireland in the upcoming GAMMA European MMA championships in Kyiv in November. Not only has Jonathan been selected, but Head Coach of Morris Martial Arts Gary Morris will also be part of Irish coaching team. Between flights and expensive PCR tests, the club is hoping that the local community and friends of the club can give some assistance via this GoFundMe page to this great opportunity. To donate visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/ help-jonathan-fight-for-ireland-at-the-europeans.

Soccer Results

The Creggs U-18.5s who came up short against Galwegians in Creggs last Sunday.

Early Corinthians’ pressure paid off after 15 minutes when the visitors’ big number eight cross over for a try which was converted. Creggs fought back, however, and Kaylum Curran’s cross-field kick found Jack Finn who touched down. Curran added the extras to leave the half-time score level. Despite all their secondhalf possession, Corinthians were left frustrated by some dogged Creggs defending. The game remained in the melting

pot right up until the last quarter when the visitors’ number eight once again produced the goods with his second try. Creggs thought they had clawed their way back into the game in the closing stages when Cian Trimble made it over the line, but the referee ruled that there had been a second movement before the ball was grounded. A disappointing day for the hosts but this was a good test against a very solid Corinthians defence.

Fixtures The Girls U-16s take on Ballina RFC at home on Saturday at 4.30 pm in the Connacht League while the Boys U-13s head in the opposite direction to take on the Mayo club. Creggs’ U-15 Boys will play Corinthians RFC on Saturday at 2.30 pm in Creggs in the Connacht League while the U-17s are away to Claremorris on Sunday. Meanwhile, Creggs U18.5s are at home to Cor-

inthians RFC in the Connacht League on Sunday at 12 noon. Training continues throughout the week for all teams. Check out the Creggs Facebook page or contact Dave Purcell (0877000547).

Mini Rugby

Mini Rugby continues this Saturday for Boys’ U-7s to U-9s at 10 am; Boys’ U10s and U-11s at 10.15 am; Boys’ U-12s and all Girls’ age groups at 10.30 am.

FAI Centenary Cup First Round Manonhamilton Rangers 5 Moore United 2 RDFL Premier Division Ballymoe FC 5 Cloonfad United 0 Boyle Celtic 5 Castlerea Celtic 1 Ballinasloe Town 2 Kilkerrin United 3 St. John’s Athletic 2 Moylough ’79 2 Ballaghaderreen FC v Moore United, postponed. RDFL Division One Shiven Rovers 5 Dunmore Town 3 Glen Celtic 2 Skyvalley Rovers 4 Roscommon United 3 Dysart FC 4 Ballinagare Manor United 2 CP Ajax 4 RDFL Division Two Moore United B 0 Ballaghaderreen FC B 2 Cam Celtic 6 St. John’s Athletic B 1 Rahara Rovers 3 St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United 1 Skyvalley Rovers B 5 Roscommon United B 2 Cloonfad United B 3 Boyle Celtic B 1 Dunmore Town B 1 Ballmoe FC B 0

Fixtures Friday, October 8th RDFL Premier Division (8 pm) Cloonfad United v Kilkerrin United Ballymoe FC v Ballaghaderreen FC Skyvalley Rovers v Dunmore Town

Sunday, October 10th

Youth Rugby

Creggs RFC 7 Corinthians RFC 14 (U-14 Connacht League): Creggs were aiming to win their third game in a row but came up just short at home to Corinthians Blues last Sunday.

Roscommon cyclist Daire Feeley continued his excellent recent form last Sunday as he finished in second place in the Cycling Ireland National Road Race Championships in Wicklow. Riding for the All Human/VeloRevolution team, Daire, who has already claimed the National Road Series this season, broke away with eventual winner Ryan Mullen on the last lap. Mullen just held on in a sprint for the line to claim victory in the elite men’s road race, but it was yet another top-class performance from the Roscommon native. Speaking after the event, Daire said he thought he would overtake Mullen in the closing stages. “I was on his wheel but his experience stood to him...I can’t complain with second against that field,” he said. “It’s my first national senior medal (but) hopefully, we can get the gold sometime. “I love riding my bike here. I have a great team, great sponsors and everyone gets on like a house on fire. I don’t want to change that for the world”.

The Creggs U-14 Girls who played their first game last Sunday against Claremorris RFC. New players always welcome to come along to Creggs and give it a try on Monday evenings at 7 pm.

FAI Junior Cup (2 pm) Strand Celtic v Ballinasloe Town. 2 pm Connacht Cup (2 pm) Knocknacarra FC v Ballinagare Manor United Dysart FC v Fahy Rovers Corofin United v Ballinasloe Town B RDFL Premier Division Boyle Celtic v Moylough ’79. 11 am RDFL Division Two St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United v Moore United B. 11 am Skyvalley Rovers B v Rahara Rovers. 11 am Boyle Celtic B v Cam Celtic. 2 pm Roscommon United B v St. John’s Athletic B. 2 pm Ballaghaderreen FC B v Dunmore Town B. 2 pm Ballymoe FC B v Cloonfad United B. 2 pm

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

SportsPeople

Naoise Coyle guides Oisin Kelly out over the line during Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Athleague and Padraig Pearses. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Athleague win historic shootout! Kepak Roscommon SHC SemiFinal Athleague 0-18 Pádraig Pearses 2-12 (Athleague win 2-1

on penalties after extra-time) < SEAMUS DUKE

History was made in Athleague on Sunday as Athleague hurlers became the first senior club team in Roscommon to win a major championship game on penalties when a dramatic and incident-packed semi-final couldn’t separate the two teams after extra-time. After the excitement of Tremane’s win in the day’s first semi-final earlier, there was even more pulsating action for spectators as 14-man Athleague pulled the game out of the fire in normal time and again in injury-time to force this shootout with Padraig Pearses. The earlier rain showers had cleared, but the conditions were

still difficult for both sides. Athleague were on top for most of the first half but two goals in a minute for Pearses saw them go in at the break in front. Pearses suffered a big blow at the very start of the match when the influential Shane Naughton went down with a serious shoulder injury. He was unable to continue. Ben McGahon was unerring from the placed ball as Athleague moved 0-7 to 0-4 in front after 30 minutes. However, they were down to 14 men after referee Matthew Farrell sent David Flaherty off for a foul on Daniel Glynn in the 24th minute. Pearses were struggling, but when they grabbed two injury-time goals that scoring burst rocked Athleague back on their heels. In the 33rd minute Tadhg Cogavin forced the ball over the line after Athleague goalkeeper David Connell lost the flight of a high lob in the bright sunlight. A minute later, Matthew Comerford was on target after good work from

Dara Finn and Tadhg Cogavin. At the break it was Pearses who led by 2-4 to 0-8. With McGahon so merciless with his frees, Athleague were always in this game. The sides were level on no less than four occasions in the second half. Cathal Kally, Matthew Comerford, Oisin Kelly and Dara Finn were doing well for Pearses, while Niall Connolly, Ben McGahon, Ronan O’Meara and Cormac Kelly were prominent for Athleague. It looked like Dara Finn might have won it for Pearses when he pointed from 50 metres in the 60th minute, but in injury-time Athleague sub Cian Murray levelled the scores (0-16 to 2-10) to send the game into extra-time. Two Daniel Glynn frees and a Ben McGahon placed ball were the only scores in the first half of extra-time. As players tired on both sides, the only score in the second period came from the stick of Cormac

Cathal Kelly pictured turning away from Cormac Kelly during Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Athleague and Padraig Pearses. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Kelly in the final minute of play. With the score at 2-12 to 0-18, it was down to a penalty shootout. Just three of the ten penalties taken were scored in that shootout, with Ronan O’Meara and Daniel Glynn both on target with the first penalty for their respective teams. After a number of misses and two great saves from David Connell in the Athleague goal, it was left to Niall Connolly to score Athleague’s fifth penalty. When Connell saved from Cathal Kenny it confirmed Athleague’s place in the final. Now, with Athleague and Tremane advancing, we await a first SHC final between these two teams from the same parish since 1980. What a day it was in Athleague and what a build-up we will have over the next week or two. Teams and scorers Athleague: David Connell; Niall Connolly, David Delaney, Mark Ward; Naoise Coyle, Eoghan

Coyle, Alan Moore; Darragh Heavey, Ben McGahon (0-13, all frees); Gary Fallon, Ronan O’Meara, David Flaherty; Eoin Ward, Cormac Kelly (0-4), Robbie Fallon. Subs: Aengus Lyons for R Fallon (35), Cian Murray (0-1) for G Fallon (49), Pat Nolan for Moore (61), Robbie Fallon for Heavey (e/t). Pádraig Pearses: Conor Glynn; James Burke, Cathal Kelly, David Dolan; Mike Donohue, Shane Naughton, Eoghan Cogavin; Eoghan Costello, Leon Feehily; Tadhg Cogavin (1-0), Matthew Comerford (1-1) Oisin Kelly (0-2); Tomas Sweeney, Daniel Glynn (0-7, 6 frees, ’65), Dara Finn (0-2). Subs: Patrick Grehan for Naughton (1), Jamie Donohue for E Cogavin (45), Padraig Galvin for Sweeney (50), Ronan Finn for T Cogavin (e/t). Referee: Matthew Farrell. Man of the Match: Ben McGahon (Athleague)

Gary Fallon and Eoghan Costello pictured battling for the ball during Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Athleague and Padraig Pearses. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

SportsPeople

Four Roads’s James Cunniffe pictured in action during Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final in Athleague. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Tremane’s Niall Kilroy pictured trying to prevent Four Roads’ Donal Kelly from getting his shot in during Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Action from Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Tremane and semi-final in Athleague. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell Four Foads in Athleague. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Tremane back in big time! Kepak Roscommon SHC Semi-Final Tremane 1-10 Four Roads 0-11 < SEAMUS DUKE

Tremane’s hurlers have qualified for their first senior hurling final in 25 years after surprising the hot pre-match favourites, Four Roads, in the first of this year’s semi-finals at Athleague last Sunday. In very difficult conditions, with torrential rain falling for most of the game, Seamus Qualter’s men stuck to their task throughout and when Four Roads’ Donal Kelly was sent off on a second yellow card offence in the 42nd minute, the underdogs kicked on and got a vital match-winning goal from sub Noel Gately with ten minutes to go. Tremane had immense performances from some of their main players to help see them over the line for this deserved win. Joe Brennan was majestic at centre half-back, halting a number of Four Roads attacks. Peter Kellehan was superb in midfield and up front Niall Kilroy was at his very best, causing the Four Roads defence no end of problems throughout. What a club player he has

been in hurling and football over the past decade. The terrible weather ensured that scores were hard to come by. By the first water break Tremane led by 0-4 to 0-3, with Kilroy on target with three points. The second quarter belonged to Four Roads. Micheal Kelly was playing well in defence and Mikey Lohan knocked over a couple of great points from play. At half-time the ‘Black and Amber’ led by 0-7 to 0-4. On the resumption, when James Fitzmaurice and Cathal Dolan (free) extended the Four Roads lead, it looked as if they would pull away. But then Kelly was red-carded (he picked up two yellow cards in four minutes) and everything changed. Three points on the spin from Kilroy (2) and Padraic Brennan narrowed the gap to two by the second water break, and with ten minutes to go Tremane made the vital breakthrough. Joe Brennan’s long ball broke to sub Noel Gately, and although he seemed to lose possession, he managed to steer the ball into the net while on his knees. Now Tremane were ahead for the first time in the game. Two pointed frees by Cathal Dolan and a longrange free from Kilroy ensured that it was level (0-11 to 1-8) with four minutes left. Extra-time

beckoned. However, Tremane would not be denied, and Kilroy pointed a free from 45 metres in the 58th minute. Then in injury-time Peter Kellehan lofted over a great score from 50 metres out. Four Roads tried desperately to get the goal they needed if they were to avoid an unexpected defeat, but Tremane held out well. The final whistle brought the kind of celebrations that one normally only sees after a county final win, as players, management and supporters rejoiced in a famous victory for the club. It will be Tremane’s first appearance in a final in 25 years, and they haven’t won it since 1980. They will get a chance to bridge that gap on Sunday week next. Teams and scorers Tremane: Kevin Kellehan; Seamus Lynch, Sean Melia, Adrian Flanagan; Cathal Mahony, Joe Brennan, Liam Og Murray; Peter Kellehan (01), Padraic Brennan (0-1); David Mullen, Niall Keenan (0-1), Cathal Brennan; Sean Mahony, Niall Kilroy (0-7, 5 frees), John Brennan. Subs: Noel Gately (1-0) for C Brennan (30), Warren Boyle for K Kellehan (h/t), Darren Gately for Mullen (34), Michael Brennan for J Brennan (51), Kevin Brennan for Mahony (60). Four Roads: Noel Fallon; Cathal Donnelly, Pad-

dy Kenny, Cormac Coyle; Donal Kelly, Micheal Kelly (0-2, 1 free), Johnny Moran; Darren Fallon (0-1), Conor Coyle (0-1); Cathal Dolan (0-3, 2 frees, ’65), Brian Lawlor, Shane Curley (0-1); James Fitzmaurice (0-1), Brendan Mulry, Mikey Lohan (0-2). Subs: James Cunniffe for Fitzmaurice and Diarmuid Treacy for Lawlor (both 44). Referee: Aaron Clogher. Man of the Match: Joe Brennan (Tremane)

HOW IT’S GOING Junior FC Play-off St Dominic’s 2-10 Boyle 1-12 Junior B FC (Group A) St Dominic’s 3-7 St Aidan’s 0-13 Tulsk Lord Edwards w/o v Kilbride Junior B FC (Group B) Oran 2-13 Shannon Gaels 0-10 Castlerea St Kevin’s 2-13 Clann na nGael 0-10 Junior B FC (Group C) St Brigid’s 4-16 Kilglass Gaels 1-6 Roscommon Gaels 2-12 St Michael’s 1-9 Junior B FC (Group D) Pádraig Pearses 3-5 Éire Óg 0-14 Kepak SHC Semi-Finals Tremane 1-10 Four Roads 0-11 Athleague 0-18 Pádraig Pearses 2-12 (AET, Athleague won 2-1 on penalties)

GAA fixtures Friday, October 8th Junior A FC Quarter-Final At Ballyforan: Roscommon Gaels B v St Dominic’s B. 8 pm

Tremane players pictured celebrating their win over Four Roads in Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final in Athleague. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Saturday, October 9th Mulryan Construction IFC Semi-Final At Dr. Hyde Park: St Dominic’s v Clann na nGael. 2.15 pm Junior A FC Quarter-Final At Ballyleague: Kilglass Gaels v St Joseph’s. 4 pm Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Semi-Final At Dr. Hyde Park: St Brigid’s v Pádraig Pearses. 4.45 pm Sunday, October 10th Junior A FC Quarter-Final At Enfield: St Brigid’s B v Western Gaels B. 1 pm Mulryan Construction IFC Semi-Final At Dr. Hyde Park: Castlerea St Kevin’s v St Faithleach’s. 1.30 pm Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Semi-Final At Dr. Hyde Park: Clann na nGael v Roscommon Gaels. 4 pm Junior A FC Quarter-Final At Rockfield: Pádraig Pearses B v St Michael’s B. 4 pm

<< Weekend Rewind

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

The

THE KNOW-ALL

PUNDIT...

GAA Studio

Weekend Fast-forward

Four Roads’ Donal Kelly is first to the sliotar in this exchange during Sunday’s recent Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final in Athleague. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Well, are you ready for this weekend’s blockbusters? Yeah...I haven’t been this excited since last night. Eh...can you elaborate? The Bond movie! I went to see it! Oh, that. Yeah, kind of see a little of myself in him... What...he likes a drink and lives in the past? No! Cool, clean hero! If you say so... Anyways, do you want my predictions for this weekend? Whether I do or not... Two tight senior semi-finals. Brigid’s and Clann to advance. Unusually decisive of you... Like Bond, I don’t mess around! And the IFC? St. Faithleach’s and St. Dominic’s can make it through... Not without a struggle, I presume? Correct! They’ll be shaken, not stirred! Oh dear... And a word for Athleague and Tremane? A shock pairing? Not really, I expected them to get through... You didn’t say that last week... You never asked... Blah, blah, blah! Anyways, you’re right...you DO remind me of James Bond! Thank you! How so? Cool? Articulate? Calm? Suave? Handsome? Fearless? Always coming out on top? No, you remind me of him in your self-styled role as a great GAA pundit... Huh? A WORK OF FICTION!

No Sky, no Bond, but a blockbuster weekend ahead! < PAUL HEALY

If Sky Sports did club championship semi-finals (not yet), there’d be hourly countdowns at this stage, with dramatic images of Ben O’Carroll and other young guns/ seasoned performers, in between soundbites from pundits, and various flashing graphics. ‘Last weekend...Athleague and Tremane brought you hurling heroics...this weekend, it’s the turn of the footballers!’ Cue James Bond graphics and soundtrack... We’re not quite there yet. But it is a big weekend on the Gaelic football front, with two fascinating semi-finals scheduled in both the Roscommon senior championship

and the IFC. It’s not just a ‘Super Saturday’... it’s a ‘Super Saturday & Sunday’. All four games are in Dr. Hyde Park, a late-season boost of sorts for local businesses, after 18 torrid months, a few of them punctuated by games in the Hyde...with no supporters. Thankfully, a certain amount of spectators are now back in the grounds. Saturday’s double bill begins (2.15 pm) with St. Dominic’s and Clann na nGael meeting in the first of the Intermediate Football Championship semi-finals. This really is a mouth-watering prospect, with double-chasing Clann taking on an experienced and in-form Dominic’s.

Later (4.45 pm) the first of the weekend’s SFC semi-finals will see Padraig Pearses go into battle with defending champions St. Brigid’s. It’s the champions of the last two seasons facing off, and it could be a classic. Sunday’s schedule begins earlier, with a 1.30 throw-in for St. Faithleach’s v Castlerea St. Kevin’s in the second IFC semi-final. Castlerea are going nicely, but this is a step up for them, the Ballyleague men the favourites. A Sky Sports preview here would be reaching for footage of Diarmuid and Ciaráin Murtagh, and we’re no different. They very often attract the spotlight, but Faithleach’s are talented throughout. Expect Castlerea to re-

The Athleague team huddle together during a break in Sunday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Athleague and Padraig Pearses. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

ally put it up the favourites. Roscommon Gaels and Clann na nGael meet in Sunday’s second big game, the prize a place in the senior final. There’s a 4 pm start for this fixture. Roscommon Gaels have shown great resilience and determination en route to the last four, but current form favours Clann, who can hardly argue with being labelled fairly strong favourites. Still, it really is all to play for in this one. Underdog status will suit the Gaels. It promises to be a cracking weekend, with four great games in prospect. Meanwhile, the quarter-finals of the JFC begin on Friday (see fixtures). Best of luck to all teams in all the weekend games.

Roscommon People Friday 08 October 2021

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