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Schools are back – but strike fears grow < DAN DOONER

There are growing fears that teachers could be set for strike action due to anger over the updated vaccination roll-out as thousands of children prepare to return to the classrooms of County Roscommon next Monday. It emerged earlier this week that three teachers’ unions, INTO, TUI and ASTI, have backed an emergency motion that could lead to ballots on industrial action. The decision comes following last week’s decision, based on advice from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) to prioritise vaccinations by age rather than by job, which would see teachers and other staff pushed further down the queue. The emergency motion commits the unions to ballot for industrial action if the Government doesn’t agree to prioritise teachers by the end of June. The unions have said they will begin balloting by the end of April. Both the Taoiseach Micheál Martin and the Minister for Education Norma Foley have ruled out any changes to the roll-out plan but now face possible strikes unless a last-ditch compromise can be found.

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Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme In good news for local hospitality businesses, the Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme recently announced by the Government details a new €17 million scheme to help businesses transform their outdoor dining capacity. Cafes, restaurants, hotels and facilities where food is sold for consumption on the premises will be able to apply for outdoor dining grants of up to €4,000 to help facilitate an ‘outdoor summer’ this year. The Scheme recently comprises two parts and will be delivered in partnership between Fáilte Ireland and Local Authorities. Part One of the Scheme will provide funding for cafes, restaurants, hotels and facilities where food is sold for consumption on the premises to develop and increase their own outdoor seating capacity. Grants of up to €4,000 will be available to help such businesses offset some of the costs incurred in upgrading their premises for outdoor dining and seating. All applicants will be required to comply with planning codes, legislative and other compliance requirements. The second part of the scheme relates to weatherproofing and outdoor dining infrastructure, such as the development of medium to large-scale permanent public dining spaces in towns and urban centres in preparation for welcoming back visitors when it is safe to do so. This funding is for local authorities, which can apply for up to €200,000 under this element of the scheme. This money is to be used to upgrade and enhance streets and public spaces, as well as to implement weather-proofing solutions which will facilitate yearround outdoor dining in urban tourism centres. Medium-to-large scale, weather-proofed dining areas for a collective of businesses in a single zone or street will be facilitated under the funding scheme, similar to those that exist in various European cities. This will include “permanent, design appropriate weatherproofing structures”, including parasols, electric heaters, wind breakers/screens and associated enabling works to accommodate these on-street changes on a long-term basis. Roof structures and awnings will be considered subject to planning requirements being adhered to. The Scheme opens for initial applications on 12 April 2021.

People WATCHING With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Back on track: But was it really the real Enda Kenny? Hey! Did you see the two guys on TV the other night? They were SO funny! Eh…which two guys? A real double-act! The really thin guy, and then the other chap…he acts a bit important and flutters his eyelids and even throws the odd ‘fun’ punch! Ah…timeless! Laurel & Hardy! Love them! No, NOT LAUREL & HARDY! Two Irish greats! It was just so relaxed, so effortless, so funny…just two guys…eh… joshing! Was it Bernard and Marty….AGAIN? No, Ryan and Enda! TUBS AND KENNY! Oh yeah, I saw THAT…but that wasn’t really Enda Kenny! Oh it was …now I know he looked a bit different, but in fairness, we could all do with a haircut just now… No, I don’t mean his appearance! The way he went on…in the interview. It wasn’t REALLY Enda. It couldn’t have been! Huh? It was Mario Rosenstock, or maybe Oliver Callan, or that new guy – Conor Moore. I bet that’s who it was, Conor Moore! No, it actually WAS Enda… But, but…the silly chat, the half-jokes, the awkward silences…the odd refusal to answer direct questions, the over the top name-dropping about Joe Biden…it was obviously a comedy routine, wasn’t it? That wasn’t the real Enda, surely? That WAS the real Enda! (They pause in solemn solidarity with all people all over the world who are patiently waiting for haircuts) Ah, he was a great ould Taoiseach in his day… Eh, had good points and bad points…sad to

Endangered Species

see him down on his luck… Oh no, he’s not down on his luck, Enda’s doing fine! Well, actually, I saw him on TV again the other night…defo the real Enda…and he was cycling everywhere! Huh? Enda. On TV on MONDAY night. A real fall. Not only has he lost the chauffeur and the other trappings of Government, he hasn’t even got his own car. Very sad! No, no…you don’t understand… Huh? He was on a bike for a reason… Yeah, to get around! But it was a documentary…. I know…about Enda falling on hard times! No, no…and I’m sure he has a car…for

So… I expect he’ll be on The Sunday Game next. Who? Enda. Why? Well he’s big into sport…very sporty, is Enda! Yeah, but why would he be on The Sunday Game? Well, there’s precedent! Bertie did a stint as a soccer pundit, remember? Yeah…once… And Charlie, Lord rest him, he won the Tour de France… He didn’t actually win it, he just shared the podium with Stephen Roche… Whatever. So your point is? Well, now that he’s into TV presenting, I can see Enda on The Sunday Game. He had a lot to say on the Late Late about the Dublin players training in defiance of lockdown… True. Mind you, we’ll hardly see him as a pundit for the Masters this weekend…. Why? ‘Cos he had nothing at all to say about Golfgate!

What we liked…

We all need a lift these days, and the superb victory of a horse called Skyace at Fairyhouse on Sunday certainly lifted the spirits of many people in Roscommon and nationwide. Bought for just over €700 last year, Skyace won €60,000 in prize-money when winning the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Novice Hurdle Championship Final. Skyace has Roscommon connections, as we report in this issue!

What we didn’t like…

Trouble on the streets in Northern Ireland is very unwelcome and worrying. It is imperative that political leaders there – of all persuasions – redouble their efforts to help restore law and order.

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…

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This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.

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longer distances! No, that’s the thing! It was all bikes and trains! I tell you, he’s fallen from the heights! Look…Enda is doing a documentary on rail travel! The real Enda? Yes, the real Enda! Not Mario, or Oliver, or Conor? No…THE REAL ENDA!

PIC OF THE WEEK: Kathleen McDermott pictured with great-granddaughter Sadhbh and granddaughter Kylie while out and about in Tibohine recently. Picture by Mick McCormack

Two women who refused to enter mandatory hotel quarantine after returning to Dublin from Dubai; The fall-out from the breaching of Covid-19 guidelines by Dublin GAA players; Trouble on the streets in Northern Ireland; Ex-Taoiseach Enda Kenny turns presenter…with ‘Iarnród Enda’.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

COVID-19: The Path Ahead Ireland’s COVID-19 vaccination programme is now fully operational. As we vaccinate, Government will have more options in terms of easing restrictions. Vaccines are being delivered to GPs around the country as well as special Vaccination Centres strategically located for ease of access.

PEOPLE / FIRST DOSE

Ireland’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme 4 Million 3 2 1

January—March

April—May

May—July

People over 80, frontline healthcare workers, over 65s in long-term care facilities and their carers.

People aged 65—79, people at high or very high risk, key vaccine workers, and other vulnerable groups.

Everyone aged 18—64.

Phased Easing of Restrictions

12th April

Stay Local for April

19th April

Full schools reopening Two households can meet outside for social/ recreational purposes You can move within your own county

Additional high performance sports training will resume, including senior intercounty GAA and Sport Ireland approved high performing athletes.

Construction of housing and childcare facilities recommences

26th April Golf, tennis, pitches reopen Outdoor amenities including zoos and wildlife parks reopen Funerals up to 25 mourners Outdoor training for all exercise activities for under 18s can recommence

People who have been fully vaccinated (ﬁrst and second doses, or single-dose vaccination) may socialise indoors with others who are also fully vaccinated, 14 days after ﬁnal vaccination.

Infection levels are still dangerously high. Over the next few months we are asked to make one ﬁnal eﬀort to keep each other safe and protect our health services. — For full details of current Level 5 Restrictions and the new relaxations, please go to gov.ie

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

NewsPeople

Two men arrested over Kiltoom incident < DAN DOONER

Two men, both aged in their 20s, were arrested at a property in Athlone on Easter Monday in connection with an incident which occurred at Kiltoom on Thursday night, March 25th. Gardaí from the Roscommon District Detective Unit searched a house in Athlone on Monday as part of investigations into the incident on Thursday, March 25th near Kiltoom Cemetery on the N61. During this incident, a motorist in his 20s was signalled to pull over by a vehicle with blue lights travelling behind him. Believing the vehicle to be the Gardaí, the driver pulled over but quickly left the

scene when two people approached his vehicle. Gardaí said last week that no firearm was produced and no threats were made during the incident. However, it is understood that imitation firearms and other items were recovered during the follow-up search in Athlone on Monday. The two men arrested during Monday’s search were taken to Athlone Garda Station, where they were detained under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act, 1939. The men have since been released without charge and a file is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. Investigations are ongoing.

Man in court following €124,000 cannabis seizure A man in his 50s appeared at Carrick-on-Shannon District Court on Tuesday afternoon following the discovery of €124,000 worth of cannabis herb at what was believed to be a “sophisticated grow house” in Boyle. Gardaí attached to the Longford and Roscommon Drugs Unit made the discovery shortly after 12 pm on Monday last following a search of a house in the area. During the course of the search, Gardaí uncovered a sophisticated grow house where three rooms had been adapted to the cultivation of cannabis plants. 55 cannabis plants at various stages of maturity as well as 4kg of harvested cannabis herb were recovered. According to Gardaí, the estimated street value of all drugs seized is €124,000. The drugs have been sent for analysis. A man (50s) was arrested during the search operation and taken to Castlerea Garda Station where he was detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996. He was charged and appeared before Carrick-on-Shannon District Court on Tuesday.

Pictured aboard the Lough Ree Access For All Boat – Ireland’s first custom-built boat catering for disabled people – is Samantha Thomson, who suffers from spina bifida. Picture by Mick McCormack

‘Access For All’ Boat hailed as ‘life-changing’ < DAN DOONER

The Lough Ree ‘Access For All’ boat has been officially launched in Ballyleague-Lanesboro and has already been hailed as ‘life-changing’ by wheelchair users. The boat is designed to allow easy access for wheelchair users and people with disabilities to the waterways of Ireland. The service is however open to all visitors to the area, with three daily boat trips adding a welcome boost to local tourism. As reported in the Roscommon People last November, the boat was built in Talinn and is the first licensed passenger boat of its kind in Britain and Ireland. It can carry up to eight wheelchair users plus crew per sailing. Each sailing lasts two hours and twenty minutes. The boat was the brainchild of long term volunteer Alan Broderick, who witnessed the continuous struggle that wheelchair users encountered. Alan said: “This was borne out of wanting people with disabilities to

feel included, equal and independent and to focus on their abilities and not their disabilities. There are 31,000 wheelchair users in Ireland and we hope that each person will visit and experience what we have to offer over the coming years”. The ‘Access For All’ project received significant backing in January with financial and business advisory support from DPD (Dynamic Parcel Distribution) Ireland. Des Travers, Chief Executive of DPD Ireland, said the company is “very proud” to be involved with the venture and committed to helping further. The boat design took six years to complete and involved consultation with wheelchair users and members of the Irish Wheelchair Association and Independent Living Moving. Wheelchair user, James Cawley of Independent Living Movement Ireland, described it as a “trail-blazing project which allows disabled people to participate in a recreational activity like no other”.

The boat currently has reduced capacity due to Covid-19 restrictions. However, it is available for prior booking for special one-day excursions to the islands of Lough Ree, where experienced guides will take passengers on tours of the ruins of Inchcleraun and the medieval village of Rindoon on the Roscommon shoreline. The vessel operates a seven-day service in high summer as well as an all year round service, with trained staff accredited by Bord Iascaigh Mhara and the Department of Transport Marine Survey Office. The project is supported by POBAL, the Department of Rural & Community Affairs, Roscommon Integrated Development Company under the EU Leader programme, Waterways Ireland, Sliabh Bawn community funds, and Inland Fisheries Ireland. Enquiries can be made to 0433321734 or email: loughreeaccessforall2020@gmail.com. Bookings can be made through the website www.loughreeboattrips.com.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

ARE YOU A FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR LOOKING FOR SUPPORT TO GROW AND SCALE YOUR BUSINESS? APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 2021 EMPOWER GROWTH PROGRAMME

Also Supported by LEO Roscommon

This is a free business programme designed for Female Entrepreneurs with established businesses. Closing date of 30th April 2021 at 12noon. APPLY ONLINE WWW.EMPOWERHER.IE Nolan, EMPOWER Programme Manager, says: “This year we were delighted to work in conjunction with the GMIT Marketing Department to offer the EMPOWER business owners the opportunity to be assigned a 3rd or 4th year student to complete an assignment on their business in the areas of social media, marketing research, branding and developing a marketing plan.”

EMPOWER, the women’s entrepreneurship programme, is run by the GMIT iHubs, is now accepting applications for the next EMPOWER GROWTH programme. The EMPOWER Programme is free to participants and aims to fast track female-led businesses in the region. EMPOWER is funded by the Department of Justice and Equality and the European Social Fund.

Throughout the programme guests speakers attend the group sessions to talk on a specific topic or to share the story of their business journey. These session are intended to inform and inspire the participants and offer them a chance to ask specific questions.

There are two programmes; EMPOWER START for early stage ideas or businesses operating for less than 18 months, and EMPOWER GROWTH for females with established businesses looking to growth and scale their enterprise.

Artist Rita Oates and owner of ETL Crafts & Giftware based in Roscommon applied and secured a place on the GROWTH2020 programme. Rita applied to the programme to support her to grow her business through developing a new brand Rita Oates Artist. Through the support of EMPOWER and the Roscommon LEO, Rita set up an e-commerce business www.ritaoatesartist.ie and has reached an international market selling her greeting cards, art and silk scarves. Rita recommends that business owners apply for the next GROWTH programme stating “I cannot express the value of this programme and the pool of experience and diversity to draw from. It has enriched every step of my journey in creating Rita Oates Artist as a brand.”

Sandra Divilly Nolan, EMPOWER Programme Manager, says: “Running your own business can be a lonely journey. EMPOWER GROWTH brings like-minded people together who all have a shared goal; to grow and scale their business. A core element of the programme is the peer to peer learning where the business owners share ideas and knowledge and support each other to identify opportunities to grow their business and find solutions to overcome barriers to progress.” The current EMPOWER GROWTH 2020 participants, have celebrated many milestones since commencing the programme in July 2020; these include a business model pivot to access a new international market (USA), treble digit sales growth which provided funds to recruit and expand the team, the development of new product and service concept which lead to winning a national prize fund. Through sharing knowledge and encouraging each other, many of the participants have achieved national media exposure through television, press, social media and radio to promote their business. If you would like to hear what the current participants have to say about their experience on the EMPOWER GROWTH programme visit the

EMPOWERHer Instagram page and view the new series of one minute video clips where the current participants tell you why they applied and what value they received from the programme. “Another element of the programme is the one to one mentoring sessions. As a business owner it can be difficult to find time to step back from the day to day operations of the business and make strategic decisions. The mentoring sessions, invite these female entrepreneurs to allocate this time, to ‘step back and look in from the outside’ and be

guided through the decision making process by an experienced mentor with a fresh outlook” says Sandra Divilly Nolan. The EMPOWER team also work closely and are supported by the Local Enterprise Offices. They encourage the participants to avail of the specialized training and tailored mentoring services the LEO offices provide in their area. Through the CUA partnership, the participants are also encouraged to avail of the research facilities and supports provided at the GMIT, IT Sligo and Letterkenny IT and other government supports available to SMEs in the region. Sandra Divilly

The next EMPOWER GROWTH programme will run from June 2021 to April 2022. The programme is delivered on a Saturday, once per month. Due to Covid restrictions the programme is planned to be delivered online until such a time as in person meetings are permitted. The closing date for applications is Friday, 30th April, at 12 noon. Apply online at www.empowerher.ie For further information on EMPOWER visit the website and get involved in the Empower Community through the EMPOWER social media pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor Friday He’s back, with that familiar combination of bonhomie and bluster. Ryan Tubridy’s first guest tonight was Enda Kenny. It was like an episode of Reeling in the Years, without the catchy music. The former Taoiseach was in studio – looking decidedly nervous at first – to promote ‘Iarnród Enda’, his TV series on railways. While the first programme (shown on Monday evening) was generally very well received, this interview was turgid stuff, with Kenny playing more defensively than Jose Mourinho. I watched the interview twice (for essential work purposes). Enda engaged trusted old tactics of his – if asked a potentially awkward question, just don’t answer it – instead, go off on a tangent. Secondly, protect your version of your legacy at all costs – to the point of never admitting to any weakness. To be fair to Enda, he is probably no different to many other retired politicians. Bertie, for one, uses the very same techniques. The upshot of it all was that most viewers ended up rolling their eyes, and Ryan Tubridy (who struggled to hide his frustration) looked like a man who had ordered a fancy gadget online and now wasn’t sure if it was working properly. Asked if he had any political regrets/had made errors, Enda had the cheek to go on a name-dropping ramble about his meetings with Joe Biden. Golf-gate, meanwhile, was dismissed as something that’s in the past. Instead, a ‘Have I mentioned that I was in Joe Biden’s house?’ vibe dominated!

All weekend It was a predictably quiet and strange Easter. The weather, for the most part, was very pleasant, with lots of people out and about walking and enjoying the fresh air. As ever, supermarkets and so-called superstores seemed to be very busy, with consumers conditioned to shop with urgency on Easter Thursday, even though some outlets were open on Good Friday. These are difficult

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

times, with the pandemic continuing to ensure that normal life is very much on hold. While many people took some comfort from TV, radio and online broadcasts of Easter ceremonies, the fact that places of worship are largely closed – with no public gatherings therein – is adding considerably to the sense of isolation and sadness that many people are feeling. Hopefully, all of this will change for the better in the coming weeks and months.

lethal young guns chuffed to have shared the baize with a man who has a chapter to himself in the history of snooker. At least Jimmy hasn’t had to worry about his old nemesis Stephen Hendry, who retired nine years ago. Then came news that Hendry – who beat White in four World Championship finals in the 1990s – was making a shock comeback. The two legends were drawn to meet in today’s World Championship qualifying round. The passage of time demanded to be respected – and the quality of snooker was accordingly quite mediocre. Hendry prevailed (63), White haunted again by the great Scot. It may be time for the oldest gunslinger in town to put the holster away, reach for a cigar and brandy, and think of good days and great nights.

Sunday Many, many years ago, prominent UK Labour politician Dennis Healey memorably said that being criticised by Geoffrey Howe (Conservative) was like being savaged by a dead sheep. Whatever about being savaged by a dead sheep, the current occupants of the political hot seats here must surely allow themselves a wry smile on being savaged by a politically dead Shane. Mr. Ross, turfed out by the electorate after his single trip on the ministerial merry-go-round, is shamelessly holding court again in the Sunday Independent. In fairness, Shane has a nice writing style, in contrast to his ministerial bungling. Today, the sermon from his high moral ground includes a confident assertion that Micheál Martin is “a beaten docket” and that Leo Varadkar is “wounded” and “in mortal danger”. Meanwhile, poor Eamon Ryan (Green Party leader) will, according to Ross, soon be ousted by Catherine Martin. Ross writes in an entertaining way and probably has some good sources. And while he’s perfectly entitled to have done so, there’s something just a touch distasteful about the speed with which a man who so recently sat at Cabinet has resumed as a political columnist. I cannot image that Micheál, Leo or Eamon will be quivering at the slightly melodramic musings of the politician turned pundit.

Later on Sunday I was delighted to see Jordan Spieth complete his return tonight from the golfing wilderness. There was

Tuesday

Snooker legend Jimmy White..

a point, about five years ago, when the young American looked set to dominate world golf. A genius with a putter, he looked a likely heir to Tiger Woods. An unexpected loss of form followed, and soon became a full-scale crisis. His slump lasted four years. In the past few months, there was a quite sudden and exciting return to form, with Spieth making a number of top ten finishes. Tonight, his return was confirmed when a red-hot Spieth won the Valero Texas Open. Today, the 2021 Masters will begin at Augusta. Expect the resurgent Spieth to be in contention. I am also looking forward to seeing the one and only Bryson DeChambeau, probably golf’s biggest draw just now. Four great nights of viewing await us.

Monday Jimmy White, last spotted at the very top of his sport in the 1980s and ‘90s, has soldiered on, mostly in the backwaters of professional snooker, all the way into late middle age. No longer really relevant, still (and always) much loved, he plays the circuit and dreams crazy dreams, like an old gunslinger who can’t let go of the past, still casting a wrinkled eye on the rapid-firing new kids in town. Occasionally, such is the natural gift within him – that and his sheer doggedness – Jimmy will take an opponent down and excite the ageing audience who are still drawn to his lonely time-travelling trek. Mostly, Jimmy bows out early in tournaments, his pride intact, the

The small café had opened maybe two years ago, to an instinctive goodwill and grateful smiles. The early reviews were very positive, the local community and passers-by happy to have this new social space, with its aroma of coffee and nice goodies. When the pandemic callously breezed into town, the doors closed, but the spirits remained high. Serving the public outdoors was permitted, and it took on a life of its own, with steady business as people relaxed (last summer) in the seating area provided. Another small business owner keeping the bright side out, rallying in the face of the fiercest of storms. The coffee flowed. Then came Christmas and the promise of a better New Year. And now, the strain has proven too great. It’s getting harder and harder for our heroic small business owners to escape from this trap. Today, not only is the door shut…the counter has been removed, there are bags filled with bits and pieces, the appliances that make a café hum are gone. There is silence now, and a modest dream dashed. The virus claims many victims in many ways.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

NewsPeople

Roscommon nurse’s 1918 tablecloth from a Queen could fetch €2,000 at auction A tablecloth presented by a Queen to a Roscommon nurse forms part of a major auction of home and wartime memorabilia set to go under the hammer. Eleanor Watt was handed the treasured piece of fabric by Queen Mary during the monarch’s visit to British troops in the Royal Hospital in Richmond, Surrey, at the end of World

War I. Now, 103 years later, it has found its way into the ‘Easter Interiors and Historical Sale’, co-ordinated by antiques dealer Niall Mullen in Kells, Co. Meath, on April 13th and 14th. A grainy, monochrome photograph captures the moment Roscommontown native Watt received the linen crocheted cloth,

emblazoned with the words ‘Welcome Home’ – a greeting for the soldiers returning from the battlefields of Europe – and guiding at €1,000-€2,000. Little is known about Ms. Watt, apart from the fact that she trained as a nurse, becoming matron of the Royal Hospital, and never married. “The tablecloth was given

to a family friend at some point over the years, and the current owner saw little point in it lying in a cupboard, so it has come to us,” said Mr. Mullen. Three antique flags from Slane Castle in Co. Meath are also up for grabs at the

1,100-lot sale. The “exceptionally rare” items from Lord Henry Mountcharles’ estate include a large, red ‘Welcome Home’ banner, a Union flag and a Commodore’s flag from Royal St George Yacht Club in Dublin’s Dun Laoghaire,

dating back to 1847. “I don’t think they’ve been in Slane Castle in my lifetime,” said Lord Henry this week. “But the connection to the flags came from the second Marquess Conyngham, Francis Nathaniel Conyngham, who was

Commodore of the Royal St George”. Covid-19 restrictions mean no physical viewing is permitted, but the auction will be streamed online on victormeeauctions.ie. For queries, contact Niall Mullen on 086 2575988.

Pictured is the Welcome Home table cloth and matching tea cosy, presented by Britain’s Queen Mary to Irish woman Eleanor Watt during the Queen’s visit to British troops in the Royal Hospital in Richmond, Surrey, at the end of World War I. The guide price is €1,000€2,000. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

EMPLOYABILITY ROSCOMMON CO. ROSCOMMON SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT SERVICE CLG Roscommon West Business Park, 1st Floor, Tower Block A, Golf Links Rd, Roscommon, F42 TD98 Tel: 090 6628608 Email: info@rosemp.ie Website: www.rosemp.ie EmployAbility Roscommon is an essential service and we continue to support job seekers during the pandemic. We can offer you a range of free supports to help you get back on track. • Professional career guidance counselling • Access to training • Job seeking in County Roscommon Our face-to-face services are limited at the moment because of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak. But our Employment Facilitators are still providing: • Online assessment and support • Phone support • Text support A professional Employment Facilitator will work with you on a one-to-one basis to identify your training and employment requirements, to construct your individual employment plan, and to help you with your job search. You are eligible for our support if you are resident in County Roscommon and • You have a health condition, injury or disability • You are managing a mental health issue • You are job seeking Get in touch to find out more.

Call or text us on 087 6538176 Email: info@rosemp.ie

Don’t miss a thing with €500 towards each hearing aid and €100 for repairs. How does that sound? Treatment Benefit for hearing aids has improved. Now you can get up to €500 towards the cost of each hearing aid and up to €100 for repairs. To find out more visit gov.ie/treatmentbenefit Brought to you by the Department of Social Protection

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

NewsPeople newsbriefs Seeking a job, or change of career? Are you job seeking or would you like a change of career? A free series of six webinars commences on Thursday, 15th of April at 10.30 am to 12 midday. Each week will explore a different area from personal skills, stress management, CVs, interview skills, social media and customer service. Register for two or more webinars at any stage. To book, contact Teresa O’Brien on 086 029 1215 or email teresa@ ridc.ie

County records warmest day! Met Éireann has said the highest temperature for the month of March – 17.6 degrees Celsius – was recorded at Mount Dillon in Co. Roscommon on March 30th. The lowest temperature in the country, minus 3.5 degrees, was recorded at Dublin Airport on March 5th while eight of the country’s weather stations recorded their driest March since 2012.

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: The L-6169-0 at Kinnity will be closed for 2000 metres between its junction with the L-143344 at Carrownalasson and the L-1804 at Rathconnor. Alternative Routes: Traffic will be diverted via L-1804 at Rathconnor on to the N61 at Coolteigue Cross and on to the L-1433-44 at Carrownalasson & vice versa. Period of Closure: The 4th of May 2021 until the 2nd of July 2021.

Council to publish draft County Development Plan < DAN DOONER

Roscommon County Council’s Draft County Development Plan (CDP) for 2021 to 2027 will go forward for public consultation later this month following a special meeting of the local authority yesterday (Wednesday) morning. Council Chief Executive Eugene Cummins said the draft was “a very important document that sets out a course for the county for the next twelve months”. He added that he was looking forward to good debate throughout the process of delivering the adopted plan in early 2022. The draft CDP was presented by Pio Byrnes and Mary Grier of the council’s planning section and barring

any amendments or Ministerial direction, the adopted plan is expected to come into effect by February of next year. The six-year development strategy falls under the National Planning Framework and will see a focus on a new, “more strategic and innovative” approach to zoning. Land will be zoned under ‘land use’ headings such as Town Core, Outer Core, Strategic Industrial and Greenbelt, with the current number of land uses in towns decreasing from fifteen to seven. The document also projects a population growth of around 6,500 people in Roscommon in the next six years and housing demand was discussed at the meeting, with some members

Residents will be contacted and notified directly by the Contractor in advance of the closure. Closures will be phased to ensure minimum disruption to locals. Maps 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 Wednesday 14th April 2021. Water Services Section Roscommon County Council Aras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

as housing, infrastructure, and local investment, while also calling for further emphasis on sustainable agriculture. Cathaoirleach Cllr. Laurence Fallon said further discussions would take place at a meeting in November. He added that Roscommon was very much an agricultural county and he believes the draft plan reflects that but called for further input from farmers and those employed in the agricultural sector. Director of Services Martin Lydon expressed disappointment at the lack of engagement during the initial public consultation process and also called on members to look at the bigger picture regarding the plan. “This is a strategic plan, not a detailed plan. This is about

Cathaoirleach Cllr. Laurence Fallon

looking after the county for future years and not to be used to claim grants. It’s much bigger than that,” he said. The local authority has called on the public to engage with the public consultation process and to make submissions when the draft becomes available later this month.

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified. Road to be closed: R366 at Main Street, Roscommon Period of Closure: Monday 19th April until Friday 18th June 2021 inclusive. Alternative Routes: N61, N63, L7035/L7040/L7041/ L7043/L7045/L7046 Reason for Closures: Roscommon Town Centre & Public Realm Enhancement Project Shane Tiernan Director of Services

Reason for Road Closure: Laying of water mains along the public road in the Townland of Kinnity as part of the Mid Roscommon Water Scheme pipe laying Contract. All necessary approach signage and diversion signage will be used at the required locations as per Traffic Management Plan.

expressing concerns over plans to develop 50 units per square hectare in the Monksland area. The development of properties close to village settlements or ‘rural clustering’ is also part of the new plan and was described as “an attractive alternative to one-off housing” by the planning section. The local authority did however reassure members that stand-alone residences would be facilitated in rural areas and that permission would still be granted to demolish and replace substandard dwellings. Wednesday’s presentation was widely welcomed by a full attendance of members online. A number of councillors did however raise concerns around issues such

Sean and Kitty Mitchell pictured recently while out and about. Picture: Mick McCormack

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 In order to facilitate the carrying out of the 2021 Road Works Scheme, Roscommon County Council hereby gives notice that it will close various roads for periods of up to seven working days on dates between April 2021 and April 2022. Alternative routes will be signposted locally. Every effort will be made to accommodate local traffic. Roscommon County Council regrets any inconvenience. The Schedule of the roads pertaining to this notice may be viewed at www.roscommoncoco.ie Shane Tiernan Director of Services Roads and Transportation Department Roscommon County Council.

Waldron: ‘No political will’ to create jobs < DAN DOONER

Independent councillor Tony Waldron claims there is currently “no political will” to create jobs in Roscommon and that the IDA don’t seem to have any interest in the county. Speaking during yesterday’s meeting to discuss the county’s Draft Development Plan for 2021 to 2027, Cllr. Waldron said: “There is a wonderful opportunity in places like Castlerea. People want to live and work in Roscommon and I see that with the students from the United States who have been visiting Ballintubber in recent years (as part of Castles in Communities project). “The IDA don’t seem to have any interest

in developing jobs here,” he added. “With regards to Harmac in Castlerea, the political will was there when Albert Reynolds was Taoiseach but it doesn’t seem to be there at the moment. “I hope there is a fresh look at why people want to come here to work and live”. Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott refuted Cllr. Waldron’s claims, however, highlighting recent local investment (of €9.2m) under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund. “Most of the time I let these things go over my head,” he said. “When people say ‘no political will’…where did the €9.2 million come out of? You need to think about it before coming out with remarks like that!”

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

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

Jim Gray @jimnotleo

Alison O’Connor @alisonoconn

Switched over from the United game at half time to see a bit of Jesus Christ Superstar on @SkyArts. Just wanted to see a cross. #MUFC #manbha

I wish I lived in a bungalow. That way I wouldn’t be daily enraged at the rest of my family utterly ignoring the universal signal of my leaving their stuff on the bottom step of the stairs. – Great tweet from Alison, as the journalist raises an uncomfortable topic (except for people living in bungalows) Kemi Yesufu @Kemi_Yesufu Kris Jenner should please share her parenting secrets, one mother raising and managing two (female) billionaires is worth studying. #KimKardashian – Kim wins Who Wants to be a Billionaire…(behind the scenes footage to follow) Tom Hickey @TomHickeyDCU I don’t think #DublinGAA should be hung or drawn – but perhaps quartered? – Rossie Tom wittily wades in on this hot topic

Lisacul online bingo

– Religion, whether Christianity or supporting Manchester United, it’s so divisive… Brian Geraghty @BrianGertyfor30 Skyace grade 1 winner. Watched in the calm composed company of the owners. What a mare #skyace #shark @RTEracing @MchughCathal @ Kevincrean11 @HRIRacing – More on the Fairytale of Fairyhouse Karl Brophy @KarlBrophy “Let me just answer your question, Ryan, with this meandering and incomplete metaphor. It won’t make any sense but by the time I’ve finished, I’ll have mentioned four Mayo towns and everyone will have forgotten the question. Oh, also, Joe Biden.” #LateLateShow – Poor Ryan couldn’t get a straight answer out of Enda… Stephanie Sheehan @stephmyra Possibly an exaggeration, but the TTS would make you feel proud to be

Former Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Irish. It’s nice to think of his guests as being in some way representative of who we are #tommytiernanshow

royal family? Perhaps Morgan himself.

– Meanwhile, back in TV Heaven…

Hannah Murphy @Hanelizaa

Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan Is there anything more tedious, more mind-numbingly boring, than Piers Morgan giving his views on the British

– Ouch!

An Easter egg and #homeoftheyear. My 20s really aren’t what I thought they’d be. – Hang in there, Hannah!

Brightsparks Preschool and Lisacul Community Development have come together to raise muchneeded funds for the local community centre and preschool in Lisacul. An online bingo fundraiser has been organised, and will take place at 8.30 pm on this Saturday, April 10th, with lots of great prizes to be won. The game will be livestreamed on YouTube, and is available to play via Whatsapp. There are €500 worth of prizes up for grabs, including a guaranteed jackpot of €200. To play, the cost of books (three games) is €8, or two for €15. Books can be purchased on the ‘Lisacul Online Bingo’ Facebook page, or by texting 083 0121395. Payments made in cash and via Revolut will be accepted. Books can be collected, delivered or emailed. All are welcome, so play for a chance to win and to support a worthy cause.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

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Knockcroghery Hospice Group raises over €6,000 < DAN DOONER

The Knockcroghery Hospice Support Group would like to sincerely thank everyone for their continued support of the group’s annual ‘Let Love Shine A Light For Hospice’ Christmas tree. The amount raised from sponsored candles, ‘Shine A Light’ Christmas cards and donations was a very impressive €6,410.01 and will go towards local palliative care services. Local organiser, Jackie Doyle,

said: “We are overwhelmed and humbled by the generosity of the people who support us and this very worthy cause, especially this year with Covid-19 being so prominent. “Due to Covid restrictions, Fr. Ray Milton performed a private blessing of the tree as part of the virtual switching on ceremony last year. We would like to thank Fr. Ray sincerely for all his help and his dedication to our efforts on behalf of Mayo Roscommon Hospice. “Just like in years before, our

Remembrance Book was placed on the altar during Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and St. Stephen’s Day and all the names entered into the book were included in Christmas Masses. “Last Christmas we also welcomed the addition of Christmas lights to the trees on the Fair Green in Knockcroghery by our local village enhancement group, Project Knockcroghery. We very much look forward to working with them again in the future”.

Local artists go Boyle artist releases debut EP! ‘Incognito’ for Jack & Jill Proceeds to tackle wealth inequality and climate change < DAN DOONER

Boyle artist, Adam Millett, who performs as Adam Cats, has just released his debut EP entitled ‘Aliens’. The album is described as “a not to be missed concept EP which offers a hopeful message about climate change and wealth inequality through the medium of rap and spoken word”. The former Abbey Community College student, who describes himself as a writer, poet, lyricist and vocalist, said: “The genre of the EP is probably somewhere between spoken word and rap, and through the six songs I tell an ongoing story about my thoughts regarding the state of the world, followed by a hopeful idea about how we could build a better one. “I think there’s an important message in the EP that might resonate with plenty of folks. The response so far has been very positive”. After writing poetry for years about topics such as climate change, inequality, self-love, and

Boyle artist Adam Millett AKA Adam Cats.

other societal issues, Adam recently started his journey as a recording artist. His inspirations include musical artists such as Eminem, Mos Def, Kate Tempest, Jimi Hendrix, and Shaggy, as well as philosophical and political thinkers and novelists like Noam Chomsky, Tom Robbins, Margaret Atwood, George Orwell, and Aldous Huxley. Produced by Nabil Sioty and mixed by Blakkheart, Adam’s debut EP offers a smooth-sounding appraisal of global issues such as climate change, wealth inequality, and unfettered

corporate influence. The producers describe it as “a well-balanced blend of spacey backing tracks and intricate, free-flowing vocals which help to deliver an honest account of the artist’s thoughts about these major issues”. ‘Aliens’ was released on all major platforms on March 26th and the Adam has pledged to donate all proceeds from the EP to organisations fighting to tackle wealth inequality and the ongoing climate emergency. The EP is available now on Spotify, Bandcamp and Soundcloud.

Eighteen Roscommon artists are among the ‘who’s who’ of Irish and international artists taking part in this year’s Incognito 2021 online art sale in aid of the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation. The art collection is now live at www.incognito.ie with the online sale taking place on Thursday, April 22nd at 10 am sharp. What makes Incognito unique is that the identity of the artists behind the paintings – on sale for €60 each – remains top secret until the sale is closed! ‘Down To A Fine Art’, the Incognito collection is made up of more than 3,000 original postcardsized artworks in a range of mediums, from oils and pastels to glass and metalwork, in a sale which saw every piece sold out within fifteen minutes last year! Among the Roscommon artists taking part are Michelle Fox Bell from Coosan and Honor FitzGerald from Roscommon town. Some of the famous national and international faces taking part this year are U2’s The Edge, rock star Bob Geldof, fashion designer Paul Costelloe, comedians Ja-

son Byrne and Tommy Tiernan, artist Don Conroy and Nobel prize winner Dr William Campbell. Since its inception, Incognito has raised almost €450,000 for Jack & Jill’s home nursing care for children with highly complex medical conditions, including end-of-life care. Incognito curator Lucinda Hall, says the event is an opportunity to bring the talents of Roscommon artists to a brand-new audience: “We are so very grateful to each of our artists from Roscommon who have shared their talents with us and given their art for free. It is a huge tribute to their generosity of time and spirit following what has been an extremely difficult period for the arts world. “We hope that by hosting what is Ireland’s largest online public art exhibition, that we can shine a light on the amazing talent of our artists, and introduce a whole new audience to their work”. CEO of the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation, Carmel Doyle, said Incognito 2021 is a vital fundraiser for the charity due to the effects of Covid-19.

Coosan artist, Michelle Fox Bell.

“Less than 20 percent of our funding comes from Government, and with COVID-19 continuing to restrict our public-facing fundraising and our charity shops still closed, we are relying hugely on the generosity and support of the public for Incognito 2021. “Each piece sold translates into almost four hours of specialist home nursing care for local children, turning this beautiful art into a real currency for care,” she said.

One of the postcardsized artworks in this year’s Incognito online art sale in aid of the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation and its inhome nursing care for very sick children on Thursday, April 22nd at 10 am. Visit www. incognito.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

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Sky’s theHerald Roscommon limit! Customer Correction Proof

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€160,000 seized in Athlone

Gardaí have seized €160,000 in cash after stopping a car in the Athlone area on Friday night last. The cash was seized after members of the Crime and Drugs Unit stopped and searched a vehicle in the Auburn Villas area of the town shortly after 9.30 pm. During the search €160,000 was discovered concealed within the vehicle and a 21-year-old man was arrested at the scene. The driver, who was the sole occupant of the car, was taken to Mullingar Garda Station where he was detained. He has since been released without charge and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. Gardaí say that investigations are currently ongoing.

2021 Boyle Summer Show won’t proceed

The Boyle Summer Show committee are disappointed to announce that the annual show will not go ahead this year due to the pandemic. This decision was made on the advice of the Irish Shows Association (ISA), which recommends that Customer Name: shows don’t run in 2021 until such time as the Government deems it safe to do so. The ISA said that clarification and S DOYLE & forthcoming, SONS due advice from the Government has not been to the ever-changing nature of the crisis. The decision to advise shows to not proceed in 2021 was made by the ISA, following consultation with member shows, including Boyle Summer Show. Customer No:

Joy from Abu Dhabi to Roscommon as ‘€700 horse’ romps home! Rep Contact Details:

some performance, and I off all-comers in a thrillam delighted for Jody Mcing finish to land the Grade Garvey (jockey) as well” Stallions Farms It’s one of the sports stories One Irish Alan beirne Cathal said. of the year, one that will be EBF Mares Novice HurThe former Roscommon told many times in years dle Championship Final at 0906627377 footballer says that there is worth almost to come. It’s about a horse Fairyhouse, huge interest in the horse in bought by a Roscommon- €60,000 to the winning the Irish community in the alan.beirne@roscommonherald.com headed syndicate for the connections. Middle East. There were joyous scenes princely sum of 600 pounds “There could have been sterling – and which has al- as Cathal, his wife Aoife, 2060848 Pieta – ‘Darkness Into Light two hundred people in Vicready won over €120,000 and a number of friends Sunrise’ tors Bar (in Dubai) for Skyin prize-money, including watched the race in McGetace’s race in Cheltenham. success in a Grade One race tigan’s Bar in Abu Dhabi, Join Pieta and Electric Ireland for a special ‘Darkness into Then we were in McGetwhere he has been worklast Sunday. Light Sunrise’ on May 8th, and give the gift of hope to those tigan’s Bar in Ajman at the The horse, Skyace, was ing as a teacher for the past impacted by suicide and self-harm. Join in any02/02/2021 way you can – weekend, and I’d say there bought by trainer JJ ‘Shark’ three years. The scenes walk, swim, cycle or simply share your sunrise moment. were fifty or sixty people Hanlon for the Birdinthe- have been widely shared on 23/02/2021 Join now by visiting darknessintolight.ie and signing up. Cathal McHugh. on holidays that just made hand Syndicate – headed social media. The cost is €21 for adults, €16 for jobseekers/students/ it their business to be where I spoke to Cathal on Monup by former St. Brigid’s seniors, €5 for children, and €52 for family. You can also 4 time. We contacted him in we were for the race”. and Roscommon footballer day and there was still make a donation via the website, and support Pieta’s life2019 and told him we had Cathal says that he hopes Cathal McHugh – at the plenty of excitement in the saving intervention and bereavement services. about €10,000 to spend on to be able to see the horse sales in Ascot in December air: “She is some battler, a horse, and he was going in the flesh when it’s safe 2019. Skyace won in Down and it was a brilliant win. to the sales in Ascot. When to do so. But the regulations We had a great night here McDermott raises road safety Royal and Punchestown in he told us he had bought with regard to Covid are in Abu Dhabi. The reaction 2020, and this year, she ran issues with TII what he thought was a re- not nearly as strict in Abu a cracking race in Chelten- has been absolutely huge. ally good mare for just 600 Dhabi, due to vaccinations: Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott has asked Everyone loves to see the ham, finishing fourth in a pounds, we couldn’t be- “Our regulations aren’t as Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to extend the period two-mile mares race which small guy win sometimes. lieve it. of monitoring of junctions on the N60-new Oran road amid harsh they are in Ireland. It’s just different from GigRoscommon Herald 4Cas(CMYK) was won by Rachael Black- Home,Interiors,DIY “Shark is the perfect We’re all getting vaccinatongoing safety concerns there. more on Tellmesomething- ginstown, Rich Ricci and trainer for a syndicate. He ed. I’d say 90% of the peoThe TII recently installed 24-hour cameras for a two-week JP winning all the time!” girl. is great craic and so en- ple that were there watching period, but Cllr. McDermott has asked the body to extend Cathal explained how the Then, on Sunday last, Skythusiastic. He told us last yesterday have received the this to a third week in order to take account of traffic when ace provided Shark Hanlon group came by the horse: weekend that the horse first dose. We’re able to go “I was involved with a schools fully reopen on Monday. and jockey Jody McGarvey wouldn’t be beaten, so that out and have a few drinks, The issue in question relates to concerns over speed and with their biggest win yet syndicate in 2016, and was good enough. It was and we were playing golf overtaking at major junctions on the N60-new Oran road. when the combination held Shark was the trainer that According to Cllr. McDermott, the TII has recommended that a traffic consultant look into the matter. The cameras have been installed in order to gain information and feedback, possibly with a view to putting road bollards in place. Cllr. McDermott: “I have spoken to the TII in relation to the junction coming from Ballymoe turning off to Oran. The high rise and speed of the traffic coming from the same direction is causing concern from motorists when turning off to Oran. The road safety issues at Oran Cross which I raised have now been rectified by the TII”. Cllr. McDermott has now asked the TII to extend the monitoring of the junctions in question for an extra week, so that when the schools resume, more accurate information of the traffic levels can be attained. “I also raised the need for signs to Oran Cemetery. Unfortunately, the TII repeated their position of last year, which is that they do not have plans to put up signs for the cemetery”, concluded Cllr. McDermott. < SEAMUS DUKE

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today. So it’s different836743 over Order No.: here. “You hear stories from Copyline: business friends finding it tough at home. We’re fortunate. Date: But we’re30/11/2020 looking forward | M to going home and seeing her run some day,” he concluded. The Birdinthehand Syndicate is made up of Cathal McHugh, Kevin Crean from Wexford and Kieran Breslin from Donegal, who are in Abu Dhabi, and also three Irish-based members, Kerrill Sutton from Wexford, Mick Delaney from Dublin and JJ ‘Shark’ Hanlon, who is based in County Carlow. Cathal McHugh played for Roscommon at all levels, and won an All-Ireland senior club medal with St. Brigid’s in 2013. He is son of Brigid’s club legend Peter McHugh and wife Brigetta. Cathal was previously a teacher at Roscommon Community College before taking a career break in 2018 to travel to the Middle East, where he works as a teacher of Social Studies and Business.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

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FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Dubs were wrong – meanwhile, opponents will ponder that early bird catches the worm! Our man Frank on Fr Norman’s milestone birthday; readers’ response on Knock Shrine article; celebrating the role of the GAA…and tut-tutting (with a warning) about that early-morning Dublin training session… It’s a beautiful Easter Sunday afternoon, and my four-legged friend (Hope) and I are on our daily walk up Lenamarla. Lenamarla is a lovely rural area, where spring-life is bursting out all around us, with primroses appearing on all the ditches (not as many as last year, but plentiful nonetheless), and there’s loads of dandelions which seem to thrive no matter what conditions they have to endure. In the

Knock Shrine: Big reader response Staying with religious matters…in all the years I’ve doing this column for the Roscommon People, I have never had a reaction like the one I got for my recent piece about the elevation of Knock by Pope Francis, where I wrote about its belated recognition as an International Marian and Eucharistic Shrine, and the subsequent objectionable article on the Daily Star. I want to thank all those that sent me long letters about the article, especially a woman who sent me on a beautiful Mass Book. Sometimes it is easy to think that we, as a nation, have gone away from the faith, but judging by all the letters I received, nothing could be further from the truth. As we say goodbye to Easter Week, it seems to me the faith is alive and well!

fields, the new-born lambs are playing in the warm sunshine, and the blackbirds and thrushes are singing. However, my mind is far away, because in normal times I would be on the side of some pitch in some part of County Roscommon, supporting Creggs footballers in an O’Gara Cup game, shouting encouragement (sometimes), at our players, probably shouting abuse at the poor referee, and simply enjoying something that we have always taken for granted. Obviously there are no matches just now, but as I walk up the road I think of the big draw that Creggs GAA are holding later this evening, and of the GAA’s importance in rural Ireland for well over 100 years. For a small club to survive nowadays, it takes a huge commitment from so many people, and this is the case in Creggs. Yesterday morning (Easter Saturday), I went to O’Rourkes for the paper and stuff and ran into two men: club secretary Eugene Hanley, and my brother Duff (Sean), who is club chairperson. Even at that hour of

the morning (10 am), the only thing on their minds was the draw, and the importance of putting in one big final effort to sell more tickets and make sure the whole thing was a success. My brother Duff gave me a pep talk that I haven’t had the likes of since before the County Final in 1974 (that one didn’t work that well, as we lost to Roscommon Gaels, but I’m glad to say Duff’s was a bit more successful). I am also thinking of the great organisation the GAA is, and how some of its best known players and ex-players – Sean Og O’Halpin, Kevin McManamon, John Divilly, Kevin McStay, Shane Curran, Niall Kilroy, Galway captain Shane Walsh, and Roscommon captain Enda Smith – have all taken time out to wish the little club well, and encouraged people to buy tickets. As I’m writing this, the draw is yet to take place, but the word is that it has been very well supported. In Creggs and in every other GAA club, big or small, the key is effort and organisation. In that regard, we are very

lucky to have had a young, committed and enthusiastic finance committee, which, along with Duff, Eugene, and several others, co-ordinated the whole thing and made it the success that it undoubtedly is. In case you think this is only about Creggs, you would be wrong, because down the road (well a good bit) Éire Og GAA Club (of which our own Creggs man Richard Canny was a prominent member) are holding a draw for an amazing prize – a new €70,000 camper van. They too will need a huge effort from their club members to make it a success. Just as we think all is good in the GAA world, we have the news that the Dubs (or nine members of the panel) broke Covid guidelines by holding a sneaky training session in Malahide at 7 am on Wednesday of last week. There is no doubt that, as role models for so many young supporters, this conduct by these players set a very bad example. Personally, I can’t see a lot wrong with a non-contact session in the

open-air on a football pitch, but rules, whether right or wrong, are rules. It was a blatant breach of Government advice, and as such should be harshly dealt with. Ordinary folk who break the rules, if caught, are penalised, so let’s hope the Dubs who did so do not get off scot-free. However, in the midst of all the anger and condemnation of that training session, one important fact seems to have been overlooked. That is the fact that some of the most decorated and successful footballers in the history of the game were prepared to train at 7 am on an April morning, a fair sign that they have no intention of easing off, and obviously have the sevenin-a-row in their sights. If I was the manager of any other county football team, I have to say that I’d be angry they broke the rules, but twice as worried that the Dubs are laying down a marker, and that they will be odds-on favourites to win Sam again this year. Covid couldn’t stop them last year, and it probably won’t be able to stop them this year either.

And finally… Flashback to 2018: Roscommon People columnist Frank Brandon pictured with Fr. Norman Davitt in Donamon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Fr Norman’s milestone A few years ago, I had the great honour of being allowed into the beautiful Donamon Castle. There, I had the pleasure of having a chat with Fr. Norman Davitt, during which he told me of his early childhood days, his school and college education, and the road that led him to Donamon way back in 1939, to commence a Novitiate that lasted for three years. Later, after being ordained in Techny outside Chicago in 1947, he came back again in 1955 for another three years. Then, in 1998, he arrived back for the third time, and there he remains to this day. When I talked to him, he was a sprightly 97 years old, fit as a fiddle, and reading a book: ‘How to live to be

110’. In my article, I said that, “If I was a betting man, I would certainly be backing him to make it that far”. Well, the good news is that he’s well on the way. Last Monday week (March 29th), Fr. Norman reached the magical milestone of 100 years of age, and I offer him my heartiest congratulations. He is one of the best known and most recognisable people in the entire area, and everyone in the community wishes him well. I hope Michael D sent his contribution, but whether he did or not, well done Fr. Davitt, only ten more to go to prove you were reading the right book – and I am more confident than ever that you will make it!

We have always been told that a cat has nine lives, and that may or may not be true, but over in the Isle of Wight, a cat (originally called Jess but later known as Tibby) made international news when he was reunited with his owners after going missing for fourteen years. In May 2007, Jess disappeared after joining some other cats for, I presume, a cat’s party at a friend’s house. For the next fourteen years, he lived on the grounds of an assisted living home, where the residents renamed him Tibby. He was, for all intents and purposes, a street cat, living off scraps and the kindness of the residents of the care home. That would probably have been that, until he started to show his age and the care home people decided he needed a permanent home, where he would be fed and properly looked after. Jess, now Tibby, was scanned for a microchip, and amazingly, his owner had kept his details up to date throughout the fourteen years. And so the wonderful news is that Tibby, now known again as Jess, is back where it all started all those years ago, with his original owner Leigh Bateman, who says she is so pleased to have him home. I’m not sure if there is any moral to this story, but if there is one, maybe it does show that a cat can indeed have nine lives! ‘Till next week, bye for now

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Gone but not forgotten

A tribute to the Lanes of Knockadangan, hosts in the last rambling house of its time < VINCENT PIERSE

The Irish have always loved to ramble; we are famous for our gallivanting. When the day’s work is done and the night falls, many of us love to roam out in search of good company and social interaction, and in this ‘new normal’, it has never been more desired. For me, the lure of the rambling house has always been strong. As a young boy growing up in Kerry, I loved the nightly discourse of how a match was won or lost, and the adult speculations on the latest general elections. The last rambling house I knew of in Roscommon belonged to the Lane family in Tremane, and was occupied by Hannah and her two brothers, Tom and Michael John. Hannah was renowned for her baking, and she

swept the boards with her soda cakes and tarts at the agricultural shows around Roscommon. She busied herself each morning baking for her nightly visitors. She was a devoted singer with the church choir, and her strong voice frequently led the rosary. Tom and Michael John were keen hurlers in their youth. Their passion for the game was tangible, and they generously allowed the local hurling team to train in a field near their house. That field now belongs to Tremane Hurling club, which Michael John was founding member of. In 1977, Tremane won a Connacht Hurling title, beating Kiltomer of Galway – a great achievement for a small rural club. The brothers also had a tremendous love of horses; Micheal John was well known at the horse shows, where he was a very popular judge. Tom was also an accomplished ploughman, and these loyal brothers kept their farm in great shape. But it was their home that marvelled me, for it was seldom without a visitor. Each night, visitors from all

Pictured are Michael John, Hannah and Tom Lane.

walks of life descended on Lanes to join in the warmth and hilarity. A visit here was a tonic. The eclectic mix of characters generated great energy and sparked interesting and varied

conversation. One particular night I sat with a doctor, blacksmith, farmer, detective sergeant, chimney sweep, butcher, judge, gravedigger, a couple of off-duty guards and a garage owner. Ideas

were hatched, friendships forged and spurious hearsays hushed: “Arragh, will you go away out of that, will you have another dropeen of tay?” Hannah was the ultimate

Nash says McCourt ‘delusional’ over portrayal of landlord < PAUL HEALY

A distinguished Castlerea resident has taken a famous writer to task over what the former describes as “delusional” claims. Pyers O’Conor-Nash (of Clonalis House, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon) recently came to the defence of his late grandfather, Vincent Nash, who died in 1942. Mr. O’Conor-Nash took author Malachy McCourt to task over the latter’s portrayal of Vincent Nash as an ‘absentee’ landlord and a ‘traitor’ who didn’t hesitate to evict hard-pressed families. (This portrayal was vehemently rejected by Mr. O’Conor-Nash). In a book entitled ‘Death Need Not Be Fatal’, McCourt – reflecting on his family’s occupation of a house in Limerick in the late 1930s – wrote: “The landlord, Sir Vincent Nash, was one of those absentee Irish traitors whose minions never hesitated to evict the family who could not afford the rent that ran about the equivalent of a dollar a week”. McCourt, brother of the late Frank McCourt of ‘Angela’s Ashes’ renown, featured in a recent edition of the Sunday Independent. In a response to the Sunday Independent, Mr. O’Conor-Nash rebutted the US-based author’s depiction of his late grandfather, describing it as “delusional”. O’Conor-Nash wrote: ‘Like many a person who read Angela’s Ashes, I was incredulous that the late Frank McCourt had a near total recall of events and conversations that occurred when he was a small child, and subsequently was able to commit these recollections to paper many decades later.

Pyers O’Conor-Nash

Malachy McCourt

‘In this regard, I read with interest Malachy McCourt’s attempt to reconcile his late brother’s memories with the facts in the Sunday Independent of January 14th’. Mr. O’Conor-Nash continued: ‘Regrettably, I never met my grandfather, Vincent Nash, who died in 1942 – well before I was born. However, from all that I have heard of him from past generations and friends, Vincent Nash was a charitable individual, particularly concerned with the ill-treatment of children. ‘He was a former medical doctor, who nearly died from typhus that he contracted while treating the poverty-stricken in Richmond Hospital, Dublin, in the 1890s. ‘He was also a founder member of the Society

of St Vincent de Paul in Limerick, and a board member of Leamy School, where the McCourts were educated. ‘He was never an “absentee” from Limerick, as stated by Mr. McCourt, but lived in Limerick all his life. He is buried there. Neither he nor anybody in his family ever owned property in Roden Lane, Limerick – let alone evict anybody. ‘The accusation that he was a “traitor” is a horrifying slur on his good name, and is beneath contempt. ‘As no doubt McCourt is aware, under US law one cannot be sued for defaming the dead, who obviously cannot defend themselves – but in this country, the living can always call out the misinformed’.

hostess. Her kind and generous hospitable nature showed care and love at every opportunity. As the cards were dealt out, Hannah kept the teacups topped up as she doled out hefty slices of her celebrated tarts. There was always plenty. The trio lived a simple but full life, living off the land, bolstered by the warmth of many friendships and sustained by their strong faith. They were rare characters that are sadly missed. Hannah left her brothers in 2003, and not long after her, they left their family home to live in the Sacred Heart Home. Michael John left us in March 2004, and Tom joined them in August 2007. They are gone but not forgotten. I regularly recollect with fond affection the impact that the Lanes had on all who met them. True beauty is a warm heart, a kind soul and an attentive ear. These true friends are never truly gone, but live on in our hearts, as we remember their best qualities. May their gentle souls rest in peace.

Gospel Reflection

Sunday April 11 2021 Three times in today’s Psalm we cry out a victory shout: “His mercy endures forever”. Truly we’ve known the everlasting love of God, who has come to us as our Saviour. By the blood and water that flowed from Jesus’ pierced side (see John 19:34), we’ve been made God’s children, as we hear in today’s Epistle. Yet we never met Jesus, never heard Him teach, never saw Him raised from the dead. His saving Word came to us in the Church – through the ministry of the apostles, who in today’s Gospel are sent as He was sent. He was made a life-giving Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 15:45) and He filled His apostles with that Spirit. As we hear in today’s First Reading, they bore witness to His resurrection with great power. And through their witness, handed down in the Church through the centuries, their teaching and traditions have reached us (see Acts 2:42). We encounter Him as the apostles did – in the breaking of the bread on the Lord’s Day (see Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Revelation 1:10). There is something liturgical about the way today’s Gospel scenes unfold. It’s as if John is trying to show us how the risen Lord comes to us in the liturgy and sacraments. In both scenes it is Sunday night. The doors are bolted tight, yet Jesus mysteriously comes. He greets them with an expression, “Peace be with you,” used elsewhere by divine messengers (see Daniel 10:19; Judges 6:23). He shows them signs of His real bodily presence. And on both nights the disciples respond by joyfully receiving Jesus as their “Lord”. Isn’t this what happens in the Mass –where our Lord speaks to us in His Word, and gives himself to us in the sacrament of His body and blood? Let us approach the altar with joy, knowing that every Eucharist is the day the Lord has made – when the victory of Easter is again made wonderful in our eyes. – Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

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Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

I hope adverse publicity doesn’t impact on wellbeing of (alleged) bosom pals According to Micheál Martin, “We are on the final stretch of this terrible journey”! Well folks, perhaps An Taoiseach is a fan of what’s known as ‘the illusory truth effect,’ whereby, if he repeats something over and over again, we (the poor sods who’ve been ‘#holdingfirm’ for the past year) will believe it. Not happening! How do I know? According to a report in the Irish Independent, the people are far from happy with the way in which Micheál and pals have handled/spun this pandemic, with a Kantar/Sunday Independent poll revealing, ‘the public mood has dramatically shifted in the fight against Covid’. In short, we refuse to be brainwashed.

Mind you, it does appear that not all of us are suffering equally – either financially or emotionally – and not all of us are sticking to the rules. Call me jealous, but I’m referring to a particular incident involving two ladies (both of whom are reported to be of ‘modest means’) who got themselves into a bit of bother for allegedly refusing to quarantine upon their return from bigbudget hotspot Dubai, apparently travelling there to have boob jobs! Not only would I sell my soul for a brow wax and a haircut, but, as a woman of slight build, who has to push the girls together in order to make one sizeable one, I’m ashamed to say I’d probably

sell my first-born to get my boobs enhanced. And, in a bid to raise the funds to travel to exotic Dubai to undergo said procedure, I’d definitely have to sell my second-born to raise the cash to pay for the flight, the accommodation and the poor surgeon who’d literally have to make mountains out of my molehills! Then again, maybe it’s not jealousy (oh it sooo is). Maybe I just hold myself to a different standard – a higher one – and, like the majority of us, chose to stick to the rules, believing that in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, when people are dying, having Nicki Minaj’s double-E mammaries is not a necessary medical procedure, rather it’s

a vanity one. At the time of writing, it remained unclear as to whether the pair did actually undergo the cosmetic procedure, with some reports saying they had, some saying they had not. It’s also alleged that their families/friends had a whip-round for the trip. However, let me be clear: if someone is ill, or for example, has undergone a mastectomy, then of course travelling for breast augmentation is not only necessary, but essential for the recipient’s health and wellbeing. Now while I know these two ladies have had their fair share of knockers (terrible pun), it’s not my intention to be one of them. It was reported that upon their return, the bosom

buddies, having spent all of their ‘modest means’ in their quest for enhanced mammaries, ‘did not have the funds for the quarantine fees’. Bless them. My heart just bleeds. You hang in there girls, while me and my small-boobed sisters set up a GoFundMe page! Seriously folks, you’d have to wonder how some people cope. I mean the weight of societal pressure must have been so substantial on these two financially-challenged cosmetic tourists, denting their self-image to such an extent they felt compelled to ignore our health guidelines and (boob job or no boob job) hop on a plane to Dubai. I really do hope the adverse publicity this pair’s plight has generat-

ed doesn’t negatively impact on their wellbeing. Indeed, when their ordeal is finally over, I pray that they will, in time, learn to love themselves and their shiny new boobs – if they got them! If not, then I’ve got no doubt we’ll see the alluring ladies popping out, I mean popping up, on a reality show near you! They could grab the opportunity to engage in a high profile showmance with some lowbrow personality, make a fast, buck-peddling, teethwhitening gel, fake tan, hair extensions or indeed, bumlift procedures to match their boobs, before disappearing forever into obscurity. Oh yes readers, envy – thy name is most definitely Miriam!

Bratach na hÉireann is synonymous with our Irish national identity According to a recent poll (carried out by the Irish Sun) only ‘a quarter of TDs and Senators would be unwilling to lose the tricolour and national anthem as part of efforts to achieve a united Ireland’. That’s pretty low readers… or is it? How do you feel? Now, as a proud Irish woman, I’m all for a united Ireland and hope I live to see this historic day, should it happen. However, even though retaining our tricolour and national anthem – our precious Amhrán na bhFiann – is viewed as a red-line issue for some, I’m afraid that beautiful as it is, Danny Boy (allegedly suggested by one TD as a ‘possible replacement’) won’t cut it for me. It’s my passionate belief that our flag, Bratach na hÉireann, has been synonymous with our Irish national identity since the day it was raised above the GPO by the Irish Citizen

Army, Irish Volunteers and the Irish Republican Brotherhood on that fateful Easter Monday, April 21st 1916 – and it should not be changed! While I appreciate there must be an element of give and take, for me, the tricolour, consisting of green and orange (representing both ‘traditions’ on our island), and the white in the middle (symbolising) peace), is not only beautiful, but inclusive, moving and a relevant symbol promoting unity. I can imagine that discussions around a proposed new flag and a new national anthem in a bid to unite our country will be a difficult topic for many (myself included). However readers, in the interest of moving forward and promoting peace and harmony for all who live on our island, let me stress that I sincerely hope a debate around such issues won’t derail or overshadow any positive progress being made.

No jab – No job! No way! We all know that the vaccine roll-out will be the most direct route to reopening Ireland. However, this initiative could (and is) leading to a number of issues that are currently causing controversy among both employees and employers alike, with some bosses allegedly supporting mandatory vaccination for workers. With that in mind, just how far can bosses go in order to insist their employees are fully vaccinated? Can they pressurise workers to the point of intimidation, using a ‘no job, no jab,’ policy? Indeed, for example, could frontline workers, medical staff, cabin crew, and retail or transport workers, etc., be forced to get the vaccine as a requirement to continue in their roles? It’s a sticky subject folks. Our government are spinning

the message that having everyone vaccinated will be central to getting our country back on track. However (given this enforced lengthy lockdown), even though it may not seem like it, the fact remains that we still live in a democratic republic, where every one of us retains bodily autonomy. So, what does that mean? I’m no legal eagle, but it’s my view that mandatory vaccinations in this country will bring huge implications into play in regards to our human rights, our constitutional rights and our employment rights. I don’t know about you readers, but from where I’m standing, this latest Covid-related complication has unfair dismissal and discrimination written all over it… back and front!

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Conversations we’re missing… (Week 3: ‘In a restaurant’) Continuing this occasional series, PAUL HEALY laments another of the absent conversations of…the last twelve months. This is what we’ve been missing!

Him: Do you know that couple over there? Her: I can’t put names on them, but I know them to see. Him: I saw them looking at us… Her: They’re just being friendly!

(Waiter): Good evening, and how are you this evening? Great, thank you. Do you have a reservation with us tonight? Yes…(gives name)… Excellent! Table for two…follow me! Here are our menus…and our special tonight is…

Him: I might have the steak. Her: You always have steak…try something different. Him: Okay…(glances at couple at opposite table, convinces himself they are eavesdropping)…eh, I might have the pheasant… Her: The pheasant? Oh, here’s the waiter…

Her: He’s nice… Him: Yeah, very friendly… Her: What are you thinking of having? Him: I dunno! What are you thinking of having?

Waiter: And to drink? Would you like to see the wine list? Madam? ‘Madam’ browses wine list; ‘Sir’ checks prices. They eventually order ‘House red’. Her: I’m looking forward to a glass of wine… Him: You do it. Her: Do what? Him: You taste it…if he asks…

They browse through the menu; she studies the options, he studies the prices

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Her: Oh don’t start that! Him: It’s all a cod…if I do it, I’ll tell him it’s gone off! Waiter: And who would like to sample the wine? Him (meekly): Eh…that’s perfect…

(Waiter: Would you like to see dessert menu?) Her: Sure we might have a look…do you want to share one between us? Him: We can’t do that! Her: Of course we can!

Her: So, how is your steak? Him: Oh, grand. Her: What was that nonsense about pheasant? You’d never have pheasant… Him: Well… Her: Sorry, I’ve just got a text. Hey, it’s from you! ‘COUPLE OPPOSITE. THEY ARE EAVESDROPPING’. Oh for God’s sake! Him: Ahem! Her: Really! You’re paranoid! Par… Him (nervously): Parsley sauce? Yes please!

Him: How much do you think we should tip? Her: Let’s be generous…he was lovely. Him: It’s his job! Her: Oh don’t be tight! Him: That couple won’t stop looking over… Her: I’m not surprised! Him: Dunno why he’s so smug…I’d say he’s a bundle of laughs… Her: Actually I met her in the ladies. She’s lovely. I said we’d meet them for a drink in the pub across the road just after Dinner. Him: You didn’t! Her: I did!

Him: Are we having dessert? He’s coming back… Her: Ah, I’m full…whatever you think… Him: I’m full too…so we’ll pass on it?

(Three hours later, all four are knocking back shots and dancing to ‘Galway Girl’)

TAKE A BREAK The column that smiles through lockdown!

“

Throwback Thursday!

Over the coming weeks, your favourite local newspaper will be publishing old photographs, both in the newspaper and online. (Watch out for #ThrowbackTuesday on our social media platforms). This is the Roscommon senior football team which lined out against Sligo in the Connacht SFC semi-final in 2007. Sligo won that day, and went on to win Connacht, but we know these Rossies served their clubs and county with distinction!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO… Famous birthdays today

(April 8 2021)

The things people say… “Everyone loves to see the small guy win sometimes. It’s just different from Gigginstown, Rich Ricci and JP winning all the time!” Most of us are familiar with the popular TV show (okay, we occasionally watch afternoon TV) Through The Keyhole. Now, introducing… the Roscommon version! Tongues are wagging (just a little) in recent days following the emergence of this striking sign, erected in the vicinity of the so-called Casey’s Roundabout in Roscommon Town. The sign features a map of County Roscommon and an unidentified(!) Rossie preparing to (further) unlock our county’s potential. Responsibility for erection of the sign has not yet been claimed! The sign has been positively commented upon in recent days, and its intentions are clearly very good! Whatever about making America great again, let’s all work to unlock our beautiful county’s potential!

– Cathal McHugh on Skyace’s big win at Fairyhouse (see story by Seamus Duke)

Matty Healy (musician, 32)

Skai Jackson (actress, 19)

“And on Monday the 12th I will be going to the pub myself – and cautiously but irreversibly raising a pint of beer to my lips” – UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson looks forward to the reopening of pubs…with a verbal flourish which was vintage Boris

Vivienne Westwood (designer, 80)

Robin Wright (actress, 55)

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War of Independence in Roscommon 100 years ago Castlerea Murder Gang strikes twice In earlier articles, mention was made of ‘The Castlerea Murder Gang’. The gang was a unit made up of British military and Black and Tans, led by a sadistic and dutiful sergeant of the RIC. The unit terrorised the western part of the county, swooping in on rural farmhouses and targeting people for summary execution. Paid informers supplied the gang with information about the location of safe houses and the whereabouts of volunteers that were ‘on the run’. In most cases, the victims of these terror raids were members of the IRA, but also, on occasion, innocent civilians would fall victim to this terror gang.On the night of April 6th, 1921, the Castlerea Murder Gang selected two people for assassination – Patrick Conry and James Monds. Patrick Conry was a member of Lisliddy Company of the 1st Battalion, South Roscommon Brigade IRA. He was the son of Patrick and Catherine Conry from Tarmon, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. In the middle of the night, he was abducted from his home, taken away by masked raiders and brutally killed. In the morning, when he hadn’t returned, his family went to search for him. His body was found in a field a few hundred yards from his home. He had been beaten with rifle butts and shot several times. He was just 20-years-old. Patrick Conry is buried in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Castlerea. On that same morning, near Lisliddy crossroads outside Castlerea, another body was found on the roadside, riddled with bullets. The body was that of James Monds, a Church of Ireland farmer from Knockmurray, Castlerea. Masked raiders had visited Monds’ house on the same night that Patrick Conry was abducted, and the raiders had threatened to arrest one of Monds’ sons. When James pleaded with them not to take his son away, the son was released and the raiders then seized James Monds and took him from the house. A schoolteacher discovered James Monds’ bullet-riddled body the next morning, lying on the roadside. James Monds was aged 46 at the time of his death. He was husband to Fannie Monds and had no connection with the volunteer movement; he was just a random victim of the Castlerea Murder Gang. His funeral took place a few days later, and he was buried in the Castlerea COI Cemetery. The RIC sergeant and his gang had been active since October 1920, and their murderous campaign didn’t end with the double killings on April 6th (as will be recounted in subsequent articles). On April 7th, the night after the Monds and Conry deaths, a unit of the IRA entered Castlerea to avenge the death of their comrade and his neighbour. They observed a British soldier leaving a public house and fired at him, wounding him, but he ran back into the pub and escaped through the rear of the premises. As the IRA unit was leaving the town, they were fired on by troops in the barracks, and a civilian was hit in the crossfire. Woodlands of Loughglynn Two weeks after the shooting dead of Conry and Monds, cold-blooded execution came again to the west Roscommon

The Woodlands of Loughglynn The summer sun was sinking low behind the western sea, The lark’s proud song was pealing sweet but it brought no joy to me. For the one I loved was far away he left his tyrants den, He fought till death and then he left woodlands of Loughglynn.

Pictured is a childhood photo of Stephen McDermott, who died in April 1921.

Pictured is Patrick Conry’s headstone inscription.

region. On the morning of April 19th, four members of the 1st Battalion (Castlerea) Flying Column were staying at a safe house near Loughglynn Wood. The house belonged to Roger McDermott, and in the residence that morning were Seán Bergin (O/C of the Flying Column) Stephen McDermott (no relation to Roger), Joe Satchwell and Toby Scally. In the early morning, Roger McDermott noticed that the place was being surrounded by British forces, and quickly alerted the four men. The men quickly fled the house and tried to get away through the closing net. Seán Bergin was suffering the ill-effects of a bout of pneumonia and had difficulty in running, so he told the others to leave him and try and get away before the net tightened around them. However, they refused and said they would fight it out with the enemy. The Crown forces had completely surrounded the woods and there was no way out without a fight. As the troops closed in, they were soon within firing range, so the column opened fire with rifles and revolvers. A gun battle then commenced. Toby Scally was shot in the leg and fell into a drain. The other three came to a river where they found cover and continued firing at the soldiers. After a time, the three volunteers ran out of ammunition, which left them with no option but to surrender. Bergin, McDermott and Satchwell were immediately disarmed and placed under arrest. Scally, who had been wounded earlier and was lying in a drain, was left for dead. He was later able to crawl away to safety after the troops had left. Seán Bergin took responsibility for the actions of the column, believing the others would be treated less harshly, but the military were out for blood. The three volunteers were taken deeper into the wood and set upon by their captors. They were savagely beaten with rifle butts until they were a mass of blood and bruises. A drumhead court-martial then took place, and Bergin and McDermott were sentenced to death.

A noble Irishman was he Sean Bergin was his name, He belonged to Tipperary and from Nenagh town he came. But now thank God that he is gone he’s free from harm and sin He fought till death and then he left the woodlands of Loughglynn.

Pictured is Sean Bergin, Nenagh, who was killed in Loughglynn.

Pictured is the monument to James Monds.

Joe Satchwell was taken away by some of the soldiers and informed that he would be executed in the Castlerea town square. As Joe was being brought away to the lorries that were parked on the Loughglynn road, he heard a volley of shots echoing through the woods behind him. He knew that the sound of the gunfire meant that his two comrades, Seán Bergin and Stephen McDermott, had just been executed. Joe Satchwell later saw the bodies of Bergin and McDermott being carried from the wood and thrown on one of the lorries. The bodies were taken to Castlerea barracks before being released to the families for burial. Joe Satchwell was afterwards taken to Athlone where he was courtmartialled and sentenced to fifteen years in prison. He was released after the truce. Seán Bergin was the son of Micheál and Kate Bergin of Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. Seán had come to the Castlerea district to serve his time at the timber business with Connolly Brothers’ sawmills. He joined the local IRA Company and his leadership qualities soon led to him being appointed O/C of the 1st Battalion Flying Column. His funeral took place a few days after the shooting in his native county, and he is buried in Lisbunny Cemetery. He was just 20-years-old when he was killed. Stephen McDermott was the son of Patrick and Jane McDermott of Brackloon,

Pictured is the monument that marks the site of the execution of Bergin and McDermott in Loughglynn Wood.

Ballinagare. He served as quartermaster of the Flying Column and was aged just 19. His funeral took place in Castlerea Church, and he was buried in Baslic graveyard near Ballinagare. A song, entitled ‘The Woodlands of Loughglynn’, was composed shortly after the tragedy, in which the two volunteers are immortalised. Death of Terence Glynn The month of April claimed another Roscommon native in the war of Independence, when Terence Glynn, a native of Cootehall, Boyle, was killed in action in Harcourt Street, Dublin. Terence Glynn (or McGlynn as he was known) was the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Jane Glynn of Drumshinney, Cootehall, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Terence had moved to work in Dublin at a young age. After working in various parts of the city, he became manager of Thomas Hogan’s Bar and Grocery on Dame Street. While working in Dublin, Glynn joined G Company, 3rd Battalion of the Dublin Brigade IRA and became a member of one of the active service units He took part in an ambush on British troops at Harcourt Street on April 9th, 1921. Glynn’s task was to throw a hand grenade into one of the passing military trucks. However, the grenade exploded prematurely, severely injuring him. He continued to fight, but after sustaining multiple bullets wounds, he died from the injuries inflicted. Terence Glynn’s body was brought home for burial by train to Boyle. It was then taken to Cootehall Church by motor hearse. The next day, in the presence of a large force of police, his funeral took place. Hundreds of volunteers from all over north Roscommon escorted his tricolour-draped coffin to his final resting place in Ardcarne Cemetery. McGlynn was 28-years-old when he was killed. More next month, An Staraí Áitiúil (The local historian)

McDermott too was brave and true from the plains of Ballinagare He’s missed from many a fireside in the homes both near and far. He’s missed at home in old Brackloon by his own dear kith and kin, His comrades too shall miss him in the woodlands of Loughglynn. When our heroes they were dying there they called for a clergyman Let no one think they feared to face the English Black and Tans The clergy came and were in time and as they said “Amen” McDermott’s soul was departing through the woodlands of Loughglynn Young Bergin said that he was proud to die for Ireland’s cause The deed was done that should be done against England’ cruel laws Saying goodbye to Tipperary and to every dale and glen, And to all my faithful comrades in the woodlands of Loughglynn. Take this message to the boys and tell them we are dead Tell them to be of good cheer and to hold no drooping head Tell them to keep fighting on and never to give in And be proud to die ‘neath an Irish sky in the woodlands of Loughglynn Those were the words our heroes said as they died for Ireland’s cause To free the land of Black and Tans and cruel English laws So goodbye old friends fight side by side like gallant Irishmen Then they closed their eyes and said goodbye to the woodlands of Loughglynn.

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Nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and other relatives gathered on May 1st, 2016 at the unveiling of a commemoration stone at Joe Molloy’s home place.

Honouring the Republican dead With the present restrictions in place due to the pandemic, there was no Easter commemoration ceremony held this year. However, wreath-laying ceremonies did take place at two different venues in the county on Easter Sunday last. Ever since the County Roscommon IRA commemoration committee was first established in 1926, it has been

honouring the Republican martyrs, annually, by visiting their graves at Easter each year. The annual Easter commemoration is operated on a rota basis, whereby the ceremony rotates on all the Republican martyrs’ graves in the county. This year, the ceremony was due to be held at the grave of Vol. Michael Mul-

Eimear Hunt, Joe’s grand-niece, pictured placing flowers at his grave, 100 years after his death.

In memory of Joe Molloy… In a recent Roscommon People, we published an article on Joe Molloy, the centenary of whose death occurs around this time. Joe Molloy from Crystanstown (near Boyle) was shot dead by the Black and Tans on Holy Saturday, March 26th 1921, four days shy of his 15th birthday. The poem published alongside was written by Eimear Hunt, a niece of Joe Molloy’s.

looly, Kiltrustan, Strokestown. Michael (24) was shot dead at his home by RIC/ Black and Tans on March 24th, 1921, making this year the centenary of his death. On Easter Sunday, the last members of the commemoration committee laid a wreath on Michael Mullooly’s grave in Kiltrustan cemetery, and also at the IRA County Memorial in Elphin.

A Country Farm: Ireland 1921 Ten shillings in the hand – the worth of enlisting To this godforsaken land. Boys in suits who think they’re men, Marching in groups of three by ten. Trousers black, shirts of tan – Triggers resting while they can A bullet spent for our friend – In this deadly game of revenge Heavy clouds over harrowed fields, Boys farming aged ten to eighteen Something stirs from down below – A pheasant perhaps, in the hedgerow? Mother calling them in for tea, Another few minutes and they’ll be free

The soldiers appearing from the road Prey trapped and bullets roam One last score is what they’re owed Four miles more ‘till they’re home Young Joe shot on the final load Prayed for Contrition, his courage shown – Just fourteen, not yet grown.

Thomas Glynn and Elizabeth Glynn (nee Logan), parents of Terence Glynn. Picture courtesy of May Moran Noel McShera and John Bambrick pictured in 2016 at the Memorial Stone that was erected near Terence Glynn’s birthplace. Pictured at Ardcarne Graveyard in 2019 are Austin Gilbride (great-grandnephew of Terence Glynn) and Matthew Gilbride (grandnephew of Terence Glynn). Pictured is Terence McGlynn’s headstone.

But then a shot echoes through the land – The young lads dropped to the ground.

A young boy dead in his field – A country farm, a battlefield. Memories erased since that day, Forgotten maybe or swept away? A country held by force so cruel To leave in exile, a sense of renewal.

A memory too painful to bestow, An innocent victim, Uncle Joe. – Eimear Hunt

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

FarmingPeople Cullinan: Rural Development policy must be implemented IFA President Tim Cullinan said the Rural Development Policy announced by the Government recently must now be implemented. “Much of what is contained in the report about farming and food is already in train, or refers to

Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com THURSDAY, 8TH APRIL:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS (INCLUDED IN SALE: 16 AA AND LIM X SUCKLER COWS WITH AA CALVES AT FOOT, ALL 2ND CALF COWS, FRESHLY CALVED.) MONDAY, 12TH APRIL:

WEEKLY BULLOCK SALE ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. COVID -19 LEVEL 5 RESTRICTIONS IN PLACE.

For Enquiries Please Contact Mart Office Or Visit Our Website For Details.

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TOM ROGERS

has to pursue policies that allow it to grow”. The IFA President said the report raises valid aspirations about what’s needed to develop the economy on a regional basis, but it contains initiatives which are re-heated. “For example, the single

biggest barrier to making rural communities more attractive places to live and work is the lack of broadband. Unless this is rectified, it remains very difficult for families in rural areas to function,” he said. The same applies to other

services – roads, transport, banking – which require upgrading if they’re to be fit for purpose. Concluding, Mr. Cullinan said the recent announcement about the closure of bank branches “runs counter to the plan to have vibrant rural communities”.

Target to make 75% DMD Silage this summer

IFA President Tim Cullinan

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

commitments that have been made before, but have yet to be implemented,” he said. “It does acknowledge the central role played by the agri-food sector outside of the main cities. For the sector to maintain its contribution, the Government

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< BY SHANE DEVANEY, BEEF ADVISOR, LONGFORD TOWN

It’s that time of year again when we should be thinking about ordering fertiliser and getting our slurry out in preparation for the silage growing season. The target should be to make good quality silage with a Dry Matter Digestibility (DMD) of 75%. The DMD is a figure used to test the quality of the silage and the higher this figure is the better utilisation of the silage by the animal leading to better weight gains. Achieving this is particularly important on farms with autumn calving herds and where growing stock are kept over the winter months. The benefits are a reduced meal bill and stock in good condition when going to grass after the winter period. To make 75% DMD silage target a cutting date of approximately May 20th. Each week you delay in cutting after this date results in a 2-3% drop in DMD. It is important to graze off silage ground in the springtime to remove any poor quality grass after the long winter period which can reduce silage DMD by up to between 5 to 7%. On heavier farms, achieving the targets

Murphy highlights Brexit conundrum for Irish bees The withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union has caused untold difficulties, but Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy raised an unusual situation regarding Brexit and Irish bees in the Seanad in the past week. Senator Murphy said that he was contacted recently by the Bee Keepers’ Association in relation to an English national who is currently trying to import 15 million bees from Italy to England. He said that due to Brexit this individual is trying to bring these bees in through Northern Ireland and put them up for sale. “The problem is there is a serious disease in the bee population in Italy and the Italian Government has spent seven years trying to get rid of this disease as it destroys the bee population. “The Irish beekeepers fear that if these bees are released in Northern Ireland it will infect our bees, so we really need to stop these bees from being released in the North. “People may not realise the significance of bees but the reality is that one third of the world’s food population depends on bees and every third spoonful of food depends on pollination so our bees are extremely important, and we must protect them,” concluded Senator Murphy.

The cost of making good quality silage is no more expensive than it is to make silage of lesser quality

Shane Devaney, Teagasc Office, Longford Town.

set above can be tricky as it is not always possible to graze off silage ground or get slurry out before closing up silage ground. Where this is not an option it is advisable to go with three bags per acre of a product like 10.10.20 or 18.6.12 and top it up with CAN or Protected Urea

Before you plan to get ready to make your silage this summer remember the cost of making good quality silage is no more expensive than it is to make silage of lesser quality with big savings on meal bills over the winter housing period.

to bring the units of Nitrogen up to approximately 75-80 units. On recently reseeded ground, you can apply up to 100 units of Nitrogen. Check soil sample results if available to see what amount of Nitrogen and Phosphorus are allowed under nitrates.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

FarmingPeople

European Commission driving up fertiliser prices - IFA The IFA believes that the European Commission’s decision in December to prolong anti-dumping tariffs on Ammonium Nitrate from Russia for another five years has contributed to the recent hike in the price of nitrogen fertilisers. IFA Farm Business and Inputs Chairperson Rose Mary McDonagh said that the Commission had chosen to protect the profitability of European fertiliser producers while farmers face higher input costs. “In January, merchants were selling SulCAN at €205-220/t. This week prices are up at €240270/t,” said Rose Mary McDonagh. “Irish and European farmers are paying over the odds for fertiliser. The European Commission is

undermining the competitiveness of EU agriculture and destroying farmers’ incomes by enabling a dysfunctional fertiliser market in the EU,” she added. IFA has persistently campaigned for a fairer market for fertilisers along with its colleagues in COPA by opposing the renewal of antidumping measures which prevent the operation of a fair and transparent market. Last year, the IFA wrote to Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski highlighting the need to see him come out and defend farmers’ livelihoods by demanding a fairer market for fertiliser inputs. Anti-dumping measures on the import of AN and UAN fertilisers into the EU achieve just

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Covid 19 Level 5 – Mart Restrictions All sales shall be ONLINE ONLY on our LSL App Buyers must register to view stock prior to sale. Sellers must drop off their livestock and leave. Animals will be sold subject and Sellers will be informed of their prices by telephone. ----------------------

Friday, April 9th at11 a.m.

Special Sales for Bullocks & Heifers Also Dry Cows 51 pens of Bullocks & 45 Pens of Heifers on offer the opposite. “Our highest cost is nitrogen, but fertiliser prices are artificially high, and farmers have no say in the mat-

ter. The Commission has to listen to farmers and recognise the negative economic impact on the users of fertilisers. The fertiliser indus-

try is profitable enough; they don’t need further protection with anti-dumping measures,” concluded Ms. McDonagh.

Minister urged to resolve animal medicines issue IFA Animal Health Chairman Pat Farrell has said the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue must resolve the ongoing issue of prescribing animal doses as the new EU Veterinary Medicines Regulation comes into force next year. Mr. Farrell said the issue has been raised consistently by IFA to Ministers for Agriculture, our MEPs and senior DAFM officials since discussions started at EU level on

(Proudly serving farmers for over 61 years)

this Regulation. “The fact that these products will become POM products must not impact on how farmers have access to them or the competitive supply of them,” he said. The IFA Chairman said there is scope in the Regulation, and in particular in the context of Brexit and the alignment of Northern Ireland and the Republic on animal health issues, to address this. The regulation provides for suit-

Castlerea MART WATCH 700 cattle presented for sale this week with trade and prices holding firm as buyers continue to source stock despite recent weather conditions. Heifers were in strong demand again this week while the weanling rings reported good clearances with the top quality weanling exceeding €3 per kilo in both rings. The dry cows trade is holding firm with €2.26 per kilo reached. Breeding stock continues to rise in price as increased interest was shown this week while the calf trade was very strong also with prices reaching €440. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,080 to €1,920 and springer cows made from €940 to €1,470 per head. At the bullock sale on Monday, March 29th, there were 180 bullocks on offer with a good trade reported and lots making up to €2.76 a kilo and €1,010 over their weight. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday 8th) with the weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am with Covid-19 level five restrictions in place. Sample prices for heifers: Ch 425kgs €1100, Ch 385kgs €1070, Lm 485kgs €1260, Sax 440kgs €1190, Lm 635kgs €1560, Ch 605kgs €1440, Ch 530kgs €1370, Lm 445kgs €1160. Dry cows: Hex 465kgs €750, Lm 815kgs €1770, Ch 790kgs €1710, Shx 755kgs €1560, Lm 650kgs €1470, Fr 485kgs €640. Calves: Fr bulls €65, AA bulls €260, Shx hfr €400, AA bulls €280, Hex hfr €260, BB hfr €385. Weanling bulls: AAx 275kgs €850, Lm 285kgs €840, Lmx 240kgs €840, Ch 390kgs €1160, Ch 340kgs €1040, Lm 310kgs €1080, Ch 460kgs €1190. Weanling heifers: Lm 283kgs €870, Lm 290kgs €800, Ch 360kgs €1100, Lm 330kgs €1050, Ch 350kgs €990, Lm 330kgs €970, Ch 290kgs €830. Bullocks: Ch 485kgs €1340, Ch 525kgs €1370, AA 505kgs €1320, AA 560kgs €1420, Ch 635kgs €1530, Ch 600kgs €1460, Lm 720kgs €1730, Ch 665kgs €1550.

ably qualified persons other than veterinary practitioners to prescribe certain products and this must be availed of to align access for farmers north and south. Pat Farrell said the unique situation on the island can and must be recognised to facilitate this approach. The IFA Chairman said that it’s not acceptable for the Department of Agriculture to “bury their heads in the sand on this issue and blame

the EU”. “This has come about because of the Department of Agriculture’s refusal to address the issue at the drafting stage of the regulation. “Licensed Merchant stores and veterinary pharmacies are key service providers to farmers. These businesses and the service they provide is under threat from this regulation if it’s allowed to proceed in its current format,” he concluded.

Roscommon MART WATCH There was a good entry of weanlings on offer at Tuesday’s sale on April 6th, with a firm trade for both bulls and heifers. Prices for weanling heifers improved from the previous week, with lots ranging from an average of €2.54 per kilo up to €3.95 per kilo, and weanling bulls averaged from €2.40 per kilo up to €3.57 per kilo. Overall, there was a good demand from both farmers and agents, resulting in a high percentage of lots getting sold. Our next sale of weanlings and suckler cows takes place on Tuesday, April 13th. Bookings will be accepted up until 5 pm today, April 8th. There was a smaller entry of sheep on offer at our sale yesterday (Wednesday, April 7th) with an improvement in trade for spring lambs, hoggets and cast ewes. Spring lambs made up to €182 for 48kgs, finished hoggets made up to €186 for 55.8kgs, and stag ewes made up to €170. Cast ewes made from €102 to €170 per lot. Ewes with two lambs at foot made up to €315 and ewes with one lamb at foot made up to €220. Our next online sheep sale takes place on Wednesday, April 14th, 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 weanling heifers: Char X 415kgs €1640 - €3.95 per kilo, Char X 490kgs €1420 - €2.89 per kilo, Char X 510kgs €1260 €2.47 per kilo, Lim X 385kgs €1230 - €3.19 per kilo, Lim X 425kgs €1160 - €2.72 per kilo, Char X 390kgs €1000 - €2.56 per kilo, Char X 280kgs €1000 - €3.57 per kilo, Lim X 345kgs €1020 - €2.95, 2 Lim X 305kgs €820 - €2.68 per kilo, Lim X 355kgs €980 - €2.76 per kilo. Weanling bulls: 7 Char X 521kgs €1210 - €2.32 per kilo, Char X 465kgs €1170 - €2.51 per kilo, Lim X 395kgs €1060 - €2.68 per kilo, Char X 335kgs €950 - €2.83 per kilo, Char X 335kgs €950 - €2.83 per kilo, Char X 330kgs €970 - €2.93 per kilo, Lim X 335kgs €930 - €2.77 per kilo, Lim X 210kgs €750 - €3.57 per kilo, Lim X 265kgs €860 - €3.24 per kilo, Lim X 225kgs €680 - €3.02 per kilo. Spring lambs: 48kgs €182, 44.7kgs €178, 43kgs €176, 43.1kgs €174, 44kgs €174, 41kgs €170, 41.3kgs €156. Finished hoggets: 55.8kgs €186, 52.2kgs €184, 48.5kgs €174, 50.8kgs €172, 46.5kgs €164, 43.1kgs €158, 42.7kgs €150.

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

Friday April 16th - @ 11 a.m.

Mid-April Special Sale of Heifers Also Dry Cows & Bullocks Bookings accepted up to 11 a.m. on Monday, April 12th ----------------------

Friday, April 23rd at 11 a.m.

Late Spring Special Sale of Bullocks Also Heifers & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 11 a.m. on Monday, April 19th ----------------------

Tuesday, April 13th at 4 p.m.

Mid-April Special Sale of Weanlings Also Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up until 5 o’clock on Thursday, April 8th ----------------------

Lambs, Cast Ewes, In Lamb Ewes & Ewes with Lambs at foot Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. - Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. ----------------------

Organic Sale – Cattle Saturday, April 24th at 12 Noon

Bookings accepted up to 11 a.m. on Monday, April 19th

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

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Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

Business

Enterprise Hub: The perfect setting for remote work in Castlerea! The Enterprise Hub in Castlerea offers the ideal setting for remote working with highspeed broadband and top quality work stations in bright and airy rooms set in the beautiful surrounds of Castlerea Demesne. With competitive daily and weekly rates available, now is the time to join the remote working revolution! Local businessman and Chairperson of the Castlerea Enterprise Hub Committee, Benny O’Connell said: “Work has recently finished on the new remote working hub at the Enterprise Hub, Castlerea where we now have work spaces for ten people, with high-speed broadband, via individual Lan connections to each work station. Spaces are available with daily and weekly rates and each desk has lockable storage. “The room itself is bright and airy and overlooks part of our wonderful Demesne here in Castlerea. It all makes for a very desirable and pleasant work environment. “The Hub is already home to Pulse Fitness Gym, which will re-open when Covid restrictions

are lifted. It is situated in the heart of the Demesne, with an outdoor gym and many beautiful walking trails. We have an existing separate room let to an FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) company, with four people currently working from there,” he added. The Enterprise Hub Chairperson expressed his gratitude to those who have made the new remote working facility possible. “The Enterprise Castlerea Hub Committee wishes to acknowledge the help of the Castlerea Community Employment Scheme and Clever Office Supplies, Sligo in setting up this project, which has been part-funded by Enterprise Ireland, under their Powering the Regions initiative,” he said. Those wishing to avail of this modern facility set in idyllic surrounds should contact Castlerea Hub Administrator, Brian Stenson, on 086-7908979 or email castlereahub@gmail. com. You can also contact any other member of the Castlerea Hub committee for more information.

Castlerea Remote Working Hub

@ the Enterprise Hub, Castlerea. Daily/Weekly Rates available. Hi Speed Broadband. Desks with lockable storage. Pleasant working environment. Contact: Brian on 086 7908979 castlereahub@gmail.com Or any committee member of Enterprise Hub, Castlerea.

The Enterprise Hub, Castlerea offers remote working in beautiful surrounds.

UpTech Solutions at The Hub

UpTech Solutions Ireland is one company taking advantage of the new remote working facilities at Enterprise Hub, Castlerea. The company, which was set up by Castlerea native, Peter Farrell, offers services such as web design and development, custom software design and development, mobile app design, digital marketing, business intelligence integration and technology consulting. Peter says: “At UpTech Solutions Ireland, we enable businesses to grow through digital transformation and innovation. Our unrivalled knowledge of innovative technologies allows us to seamlessly, precisely and quickly provide technology solutions to our clients. “We set up before Christmas. We were working from home and we needed a better space. We’re definitely happy with the brilliant facilities at The Hub and it’s much easier to concentrate in the office environment”. For more information, click www.uptechsolutions. co, email info@uptechsolutions.co or call 0866613718.

Roscommon people invited to attend Leadership Forum People from Roscommon are being invited to attend a free online event series, The Better Leadership Forum, aimed at instigating a high profile public debate on leadership. The event series is a new initiative from LIFT Ireland, and will feature four online events taking place across 2021. Each event will focus on leadership in a particular sector of Irish society, including the media, politics, business and the public sector. The first event in the series – ‘Leadership in the Media: A Two-Way Street?’ – takes place at 1 pm on Thursday, April 15th. April’s event will explore leadership in the media, addressing topics such as the role of the media in calling out good and bad leadership, the importance of press freedom and an independent, well-functioning media sector, and the role of the media in promoting positivity during difficult times.

Professor Kevin Rafter (Head of School of Communications at DCU) will be moderating the panel discussion, and speakers include Emily O’Reilly (European Ombudsman, author, former journalist and broadcaster), Emma Dabiri (author, broadcaster and social historian), Ian Kehoe (editor of The Currency and Deputy Chair of the RTÉ Board), Sinéad O’Carroll (editor of TheJournal.ie), and Joanne Hession (founder and CEO of LIFT Ireland). Registration for the first event of the Better Leadership Forum (‘Leadership in the Media: A Two-Way Street?’) is now open at liftireland. ie/better-leadership-forum/. Pictured at Samuel Beckett Bridge, Dublin 2, launching The Better Leadership Forum is Sonya Lennon, co-founder of LIFT Ireland.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

NewsPeople

Feighan welcomes heritage grants for North Roscommon Sligo/Leitrim TD and Minister of State Frank Feighan has welcomed the announcement by Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan that 477 heritage projects across the country will benefit from a total of €3 million under this year’s Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS). “In addition to supporting owners and custodians

of historic and protected structures to safeguard and maintain their properties, this funding will also provide a welcome boost to local construction and heritage trades, by facilitating works with a total value of over €15.5 million and leveraging an estimated 19,000 days’ labour,” Deputy Feighan said. “The announcement allows owners and custodi-

ans to begin to plan for the months ahead. All work must, of course, be carried out in full compliance with Government/HSE guidance on Covid-19,” he added. Deputy Feighan welcomed the allocation for North Roscommon, which allocates €5,000 for external wall repairs at Holywell House, Liberty Hill, Carrick-on-Shannon;

€5,000 for historic ruins stabilisation at the O’Beirne mausoleum in Kilmore graveyard, Kilmore, Carrick-on-Shannon; €7,000 for draughtproofing windows, doors and other openings at Carrigard House, Kellogues, Boyle; €10,000 for roof repair, structures and coverings including leadwork at Rush Hill, Ardlougher, Hillstreet; and €10,000 for

external wall repair, roof repair, structures and coverings at Kingston Hall, Rockingham Demesne, Boyle. “I wish to congratulate all the successful applicants, and indeed Roscommon County Council’s Heritage Section for their advice and guidance to the organisations and individuals awarded funding,” concluded Deputy Feighan.

Close to 700 people tested at ‘walk in centre’ in Ballinasloe < DAN DOONER

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan pictured at the ‘walk in’ Covid-19 test centre in Ballinasloe earlier this week.

Close to 700 people were tested for Covid-19 in Ballinasloe over the Easter weekend after a ‘pop-up’ test centre was opened in the town from Good Friday (April 2nd) to Tuesday, April 6th. Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Officer of Community Healthcare West, noted the excellent teams working together to set up this test centre. “The first walk in test centre in the west was set up in Ballinasloe as there was concern about incident rates in the community,” she said. Ballinasloe-based Fine

Gael Senator Aisling Dolan had encouraged people living within 5km of the centre to get tested. “I went along on Friday morning to the Townhall carpark and did the test within ten minutes and the results were back by text to my phone within a day – I was delighted to know it was negative! “It really was an excellent turn-around time and a great way to know that you’re safe and that your family and friends are safe too. Covid-19 impacts on people of all ages and particularly those with a vulnerable or under-lying condition,” she said.

Senator Dolan said the vaccination roll-out was ramping up but that it was crucil to continue to adhere to public health guidelines. “Soon we will be in a better and safer place for everyone. I’d like to thank the schools and clubs that also encouraged young people to get tested and keep their families safe. And also to pay tribute to the excellent organisation between Community Healthcare West and the local paramedics from the National Ambulance Service as well as Civil Defence as well as Galway County Council and the Gardaí,” she concluded.

The late George Reynolds, (Dublin and Strokestown) The death of George Reynolds (Booterstown, Dublin, and late of Elphin Street, Strokestown) occurred on Good Friday at the Belmont House Nursing Home, Stillorgan, Dublin. George was aged 84, and had been in failing health for the past eighteen months. George was educated at the Marist Boys School in Strokestown, Garbally College in Ballinasloe, and UCD, where he obtained Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Economic Science. He represented Garbally at Connacht Colleges Championships in rugby and athletic events. He won County Minor Championship medals with Strokestown teams in 1953 and 1954, as well as a County Junior medal in 1961.

George had a forty-five year career with the Central Bank of Ireland as an economist and international banking representative. In 1973, he was appointed an Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund in Washington DC for a two-year term. On his return, George was named head of the International Relations Division and retired as Assistant Director General, European Monetary Affairs and International Relations in 2001. His international duties saw him closely involved with the evolution of Europe’s currency system from the 1970s, through to the establishment of the Eurozone in 1999, and the introduction of the physical euro currency at the end of 2001.

While George was widely travelled, his affection for his native county and town never waned. Through memorable lunches and coffee meetings, he maintained childhood friendships in Dublin and at home. In 2008, he arranged for the long-forgotten Billy Chapman films to be launched as the ‘Strokestown on Film’ DVD, and donated the €18,000 sales proceeds to the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice. George was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Annie Reynolds, his brother John (Dono), and sister Collette. He is survived by his brothers Fr. TP (Columban Fathers, Los Angeles) and Dr. Michael (Castlebar), his sisters Attracta McGrath (Strokestown)

Events at Boyle Family Resource Centre

Upcoming events at Boyle Family Resource Centre include Common Sense Parenting (CSP) for 6 to 16 years. This programme aims to equip parents with logical methods for changing their children’s behaviours through teaching them positive behaviours, social skills, and methods to reduce stress in crisis situations. The programme also hopes to provide parents with practical strategies for improving parent-child communication and building robust family relations. The programme, taking place via Zoom due to restrictions, will run from Wednesday, April 18th, from 7 pm to 9.30 pm. The cost for course materials is €20, and booking is essential. An Online Mindful Parenting Course will also take place on Tuesday, April 20th via Zoom. This is an eight-week mindfulness programme that parents can use to support their child’s positive mental health and wellbeing. We will explore how to bring practices of mindfulness, self-compassion, kindness and gratitude into your parenting. Time to be arranged, and booking for this event is essential. For more information, or to book your place on, please contact Boyle Family Resource Centre. Boyle FRC is here to support you and yours. We are working behind closed doors but available from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm. Due to Covid-19, Boyle FRC is adhering to the HSE guidelines that pertain to the safety and care of all of our service users. If you would like to be added to our mailing list, please let us know. For more information or to book a place on the above courses, log onto boylefrc.ie, email info@boylefrc.ie, or phone 071-9663000. Email boylecpc@boylefrc.ie for our counselling service.

Roscommon people urged to support ‘65 Roses Day’

The late George Reynolds (right) pictured back in 2007 in Maye’s Tavern, Dublin at a Roscommon Association (Dublin) event. On left is Ballinlough native Michael Fitzmaurice, long-time inspiration behind the Association.

and Teresa Johnston (Belfast), as well as his nephews, nieces, sister-in-law and brother-in-law. His burial took place in Strokestown Cemetery, following Mass in the

Sligo/ Leitrim TD and Minister of State Frank Feighan.

parish church, which was concelebrated by Fr. Eamonn O’Connor, Fr. Ciaran Whitney, Fr. Ciaran O’Flynn and Fr. Frank McGauran. May he rest in peace.

The people of Roscommon are being urged to show their support for people living with cystic fibrosis and their families by donating online at 65rosesday.ie on Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s ‘65 Roses Day’ this Friday (April 9th). The annual fundraising flag day is the largest fundraising event of the year for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, and unfortunately collections have had to be cancelled due to Covid-19. Ireland has the highest incidence of CF in the world and some of the most severe types. According to recently published statistics from the Cystic Fibrosis Registry of Ireland, there were ten people with CF registered as being from Co. Roscommon in 2019. CFI depends almost entirely on the public for the provision of its services, and this 65 Roses Day, the hope is to raise more than €300,000 for much-needed services for people with CF. People can support 65 Roses Day by donating online at 65rosesday.ie, or by taking part in a 65 Roses Challenge, the full details of which are also available at 65rosesday. ie. For more information on how you can support Cystic Fibrosis Ireland on 65 Roses Day, call Brendán on LoCall 1890-311211, email fundraising@cfireland.ie or visit 65RosesDay.ie. People can find the appeal on Facebook at facebook. com/CysticFibrosisIreland and on Twitter at twitter.com/ cf_ireland. The campaign hashtag is #65RosesDay.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

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Earley’s online multi-auction coming soon! Property Partners Earley are currently listing properties for their forthcoming national online multiauction, and welcome all residential, commercial or agricultural properties. They offer a comprehensive pre-auction, online and newspaper marketing campaign, and offer nationwide market exposure using their network of partner offices. Also, all properties can avail of a 360-degree, walk-through virtual tour

Selling property? There’s no substitute for experience!

A prime quality 3 B/R bungalow residence located in this regarded tidy town village, standing on a beautiful mature site area which holds potential due to its road frontage. The said property offers an area of approx. 850 sq.ft with garage of approx. 200 sq.ft set to the side and storage shed off (of approx. 190 sq.ft.) The auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and all offers to sell. BER: D1. Legal: Callan Tansey & Co, Boyle. 071 96 62019.

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie of Professional ipav Institute Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Auctioneer & Valuers Fax: (090) 6625405 PSRA Licence No. 001481

and drone aerial imagery at no extra cost. To have your property listed or for a free market appraisal, contact the office. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) on 086-2551380 or David Diffley (MIPAV) TRV on 086-8952283. Contact Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 0906626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

John Earley.

Property Partners Earley Roscommon are seeking houses in all areas of Roscommon for cash clients and disappointed underbidders. Houses in the general Roscommon Town, Knockcroghery and Lecarrrow areas are of particular interest, with a number of properties having been sold here in the past few weeks. Property Partners have been selling property for generations, and offer a nationwide network of offices with exceptional local knowledge. With an extensive

computerised database of active buyers, Property Partners Earley are best placed to advise on all you property matters. They offer a professional marketing plan, designed to deliver their goal of selling you home for the highest price possible. Additionally, they have now launched a 360-degree virtual tour service at no extra cost, which has led to a number of properties being sold to overseas clients that are unable to travel due to Covid-19 restrictions. Your property will be listed on

all major websites, to include propertypartners.ie, daft.ie and myhome.ie. With over 3,000 unique hits on the Property Partners website each day alone, you property will be marketed to the forefront. Local knowledge, nationwide. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) or David Diffley (MIPAV) of Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090-66 26579, or email jearley@propertypartners. ie.

Roscommon house prices rise 3.4% over twelve months The price of the average three-bedroomed, secondhand, semi-detached house in county Roscommon has increased by 3.4% to €150,000 in the last 12 months, according to a national survey by Real Estate Alliance. Across the county, this quarter has seen the average time taken to sell remaining steady at four weeks, and prices also remain unchanged since December,

with Roscommon town prices currently at €170,000 and Castlerea prices at €130,000, the Q1 REA Average House Price Index shows. “We have seen no change in semi-detached houses this quarter,” said Seamus Carthy of REA Seamus Carthy. “The market is extremely active for large, four-bedroomed, detached family homes, both in town locations and rurally.

“The market is extremely active with plenty of enquiries, but no real new stock is coming on stream during the lockdown. As soon as the lockdown is lifted, we expect a very active market with demand enquiries expected to far outweigh supply levels. As such, prices will continue to increase in this market.” Nationally, average house prices rose by almost 2% over the past three months (despite the absence of physical viewing) in a marketplace that is seeing the lowest supply and the shortest time taken to sell in recent history. The REA Average House Price Survey concentrates on the actual sale price of Ireland’s typical stock home, the three-bedroomed, semi-detached house, giving an accurate picture of the second-hand property market in towns and cities countrywide. The price of

a three-bedroomed semidetached house across the country rose by almost €4,500 over the past three months to €243,603 – representing an annual increase of 3.6%. The average threebedroomed, semi-detached house is now reaching sale agreed after just five weeks on the market across the country – almost half the nine-week average this time last year. Not having to schedule appointments has led to potential buyers making swift bidding decisions on the back of virtual viewings, speeding up the selling process according to REA. The biggest rises in Q1 came in commuter counties, as buyers move out further from the city in preparation for long-term hybrid working situations. Dublin city experienced its biggest quarterly rise in over three years, as the price of a three-bedroomed, semi-de-

tached house rose by 1.5% to €438,500 during the past 12 weeks. This represents an annual increase of 2.7%, and means that the average Dublin three-bedroomed, semi-detached house has now recovered to its December 2017 price level after a period of decreases, mainly in 2019. Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford cities shared a combined increase of 1.2% in the past twelve weeks, with prices rising by €3,000 to an average of €265,625. Three-bedroomed semi-detached houses in commuter counties rose 2.3% by almost €6,000 in the past three months to an average of €258,889 – with the average home selling in four weeks – down from a high of eleven a year ago. As the flight to rural locations continues, prices in the rest of the country’s towns rose by over 2% in Q1 to €168,828.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

LifestylePeople

Local student receives memorial scholarship award Roscommon student Maksims Andrijanovs was presented with a memorial scholarship award by DCU at a virtual event on Wednesday, March 10th, where twenty-two students received awards named in honour of four-

teen individuals who have played a key role in the life of Dublin City University and Irish society. Maksims Andrijanovs, a former student of Coláiste Mhuire Ballygar, Co. Galway, and a current first year Aviation Management

Pictured is Maksims Andrijanovs, a first year Aviation Management student at DCU, who was presented with the TJ O’Driscoll Memorial Scholarship at a virtual ceremony on March 10th, 2020.

student at DCU, was presented with the TJ O’Driscoll Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship honours the memory of TJ O’Driscoll, former Director General of Bord Fáilte, the Irish Tourist Board, and the first Chairman of Enterprise Ireland. The TJ O’Driscoll Memorial Scholarship was established in his memory to support a student pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in DCU Business School’s Aviation Management programme. The twenty-two scholarship recipients were selected based on their talent and dedication, but also according to specific criteria set by scholarship donors. Sixteen scholarships were presented to undergraduate students supported by DCU’s Access Programme, which makes third-level education accessible to students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, and provides financial, academic and personal supports to help students succeed in their studies. A further six scholarships were awarded to support students engaged in postgraduate research or study in fields as diverse as law, biotechnology, marketing, journalism, music and sport.

Welcome to Roxboro NS! Pictured are Roxboro National School pupils Nicole, Carla and Jessica. Photo by Mick McCormack

Boyle Musical Society – 2021 show postponed The committee of Boyle Musical Society has announced the postponement of this year’s Musical “with regret”. Following an AGM which was conducted via Zoom on March 23rd, it was felt that the committee was not in a position to make any plans for a show in 2021, particularly when there is still no clarification from NPHET or the Government regarding social gatherings and venue capacities. The committee said: “With all the

uncertainty at present, there is no way that we could organise and prepare for a show in time for the autumn. This is now the second time that we have had to postpone a musical due to Covid-19, but we are confident that it will be the last time too”. The decision has been taken purely on the grounds of health and safety. Also discussed at the AGM was the continuation of the existing committee. All of the current

members and officers have kindly agreed to stay on board and keep their roles for another year. “We would like to thank you, our audience, and all in the local community, for the years of support thus far. We are especially grateful to all our local sponsors and we urge everybody to support them when restrictions are lifted. Keep safe”. For more information on Boyle Musical Society please visit boylemusicalsociety.com.

Win a €150 voucher from Marian’s of Boyle with fashion and lifestyle blogger Geri’s Closet There’s nothing quite like a bit of style and fashion buying to distract us from a pandemic. With shopping centres and boutiques all closed due to restrictions, many customers are resorting to online shopping. In fact, some fashion and accessories outlets are reporting record sales during the past twelve months, according to local fashion and lifestyle blogger Geraldine Grealy of ‘Geri’s Closet’. People who never bought online before are now embracing the new normal of lockdown online shopping. Seasonal sales and huge online discounts are making it very appealing, added Geraldine. Weddings and special occasions are looking likely to resume later this summer (albeit it with limitations), so it’s the ideal time to give your wardrobe a fresh new look. With weddings in mind, fashion and lifestyle blogger Geraldine Grealy has teamed up with ‘Mother of the Bride’ specialist, Marian’s of Boyle, to give one lucky lady a chance to win a €150 voucher towards a stunning ‘Mother of the Bride’ outfit. The lucky winner will also

get a personalised styling consultation and a delightful afternoon tea for two at the Midlands’ leading wedding venue, the Abbey Hotel.

So, if you know a lucky mother of a bride or groom, who you think might deserve to win this lovely prize and look super-stylish for a much-anticipated,

post-lockdown wedding, simply follow Geri’s Closet @ggrealy on Instagram for all the details. To feature on Geraldine’s fashion or skincare spot-

light on her blog, or for collaborations, simply call 086 3276584. Personalised styling advice consultations are also available.

If you are a pharmacy, skincare brand, beauty outlet or lifestyle brand looking to promote, collaborate or product test a new range of skincare or beauty brands please get in touch with Geraldine on 086 3276584 to feature in her free blog Spotlight.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

Classifieds

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

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

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

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

PODIATRIST

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

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

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

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

087 2798704

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

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

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

• Open fire, stove, ranges • All flues and chimneys • Power brushed & vaccumed • No mess, no fuss • CCTV camera inspections • Detailed report and CCTV recording provided for insurance claims • Fully insured Also available for powerwashing and gutter cleaning fergalkelly@live.com

Fergal 086 1016899 CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction l

087 2982214

advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

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

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone:

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Send your Classified advertisement to

Chimney Cleaning

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

By Appointment Only –

Submit your Classified online

Complete Chimney Services

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY SWEEP

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Chimney CCTV Inspection OIL BOILERS SERVICED Burners Repaired CARPETS CLEANING Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com

087 9268424

CHIROPRACTOR

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

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

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor

BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

VHI and Laya Covered

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

COUNSELLING

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?

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

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

Paul McStay

DC Computer Services Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

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

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

GARDENING

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

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

Phone:

087 2721193

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

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

Please call Glynis on

DRIVING LESSONS

COMPUTERS

FENCING/GATES

l l

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

Tel: 087 2172281

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 2346364

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715 < FOR SALE: Round bales of hay and silage. Tel: 085 1474861

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 2 sofa beds - old writing desk and sideboard and glass case all matching, car trailer - suitable for sheep, two doors (side + back), waterproof chassis for caravan, gas fittings and brakes, 2 pine doors, 2 flat screen TV’s (nearly new). Phone: 083 882 8882

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

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

GATELY GARDENING

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

Qualified Horticulturist Tree, Hedge, Shrub Pruning, Lawn Mowing Contractor 30 years experience Contact

087 7754745

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

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

Phone John on

087 2860428 TREES FOR SALE All types of trees and hedging for sale. Can be delivered.

Contact Tommy: 087 4177148

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

< TO LET: 2 bed apartment to let in Athleague Village. Tel: 087 7541730 < BALLAGHADEREEN: 4 bedroom house to rent in Shannon Valley, Ballaghadereen, Co. Roscommon. Newly renovated. TEXT ONLY details to 086 6847949 < LAND TO LET: 28 acres of land at Roxboro for grazing cattle only, from now until 1st November. Tel: 089 2161765

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Michael Keaveney intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the alterations to existing dwelling house including: A: Demolition of Existing Single Storey Extension and Shed/Store attached to rear of Dwelling. B: Proposed Two Storey Extension to Rear of Dwelling. C: Proposed Single Storey Extension to Side of Dwelling. D: Proposed Single Storey Porch Extension to Front of Dwelling. E: Upgrading Existing Septic Tank to Proprietary Treatment system and percolation area and associated works at Knockadangan, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. T: 090 6624681 M: 087 635 8949 E: sblake2006@gmail.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Maurice and Fiona Hamrock to construct an extension to an existing dwelling house, construct a garage, waste water treatment system, close two existing roadside entrances, create new roadside entrance and associated siteworks at Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Ph: (087) 2222874 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application 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.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd., on behalf of Kieran Greene and Caroline Mills-Greene, of Muckanagh, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon [further to application PD/20/537] intend to seek [A] Permission, and [B] Retention permission, to include the following: [A] For permission to revise the site boundary, from that granted under PD/99/147; PD/01/534 and PD/01/659, respectively. AND [B] For retention permission for an as constructed domestic waste-water treatment system (including percolation area) the location of which is at variance to that granted under PD/99/147 and which is inconsistent with the layout submitted as part of subsequent applications PD/01/534 and PD/01/659, respectively.

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: Edward Conlon BE (Hons) CEng MIEI [Agent] Email: info@conlonconsulting.ie Web: www.conlonconsulting.ie Tel: 0906 665341

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Shane Kelly and Kelly Flanagan, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council, for Full Planning Permission for the construction of a proposed extension to the front and rear of an existing dwelling house, together with the demolition of existing flat roof extension to rear and existing front porch to facilitate the proposed extensions, renovation of existing house, connection to effluent treatment system (as granted under PD/18/163) and all ancillary site development works at Glenballythomas, Tulsk, Castlerea, 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 office 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 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: Shane Kelly and Kelly Flanagan.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Athleague Tidy Towns to construct two angling stands and associated siteworks at Glebe, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, James and Maeve Keegan intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct two storey dwelling, domestic garage, proprietary effluent treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Cloongowna, Athlone, 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.

WE BUY CAR

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

Tel: 087 0944027

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Shuttington Holdings ULC intend to apply for permission for development at Warren/Drum, Carrick Road, Boyle, Co Roscommon This development will consist of the change of use of existing convenience shop to include part offlicence use (gross floor area for off-licence use 18 sq.m.), alterations to shop front elevation and associated 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: APS Consulting & Engineering Limited Lackagh, Turloughmore, Co. Galway. H65 HF43 T: 091 737 458 E: info@apsconsulting.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Kilbride GAA Club for planning permission to construct a single storey “Strength and Conditioning/ Gymnasium” building with all associated ancillary works at Ballinderry Townland, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the 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.

USEFUL SERVICES < HANDYMAN SERVICES: Do you need odd jobs doing around your home/yard? Have no time to do them yourself? Don’t want to contact a specialised tradesman to carry out these tasks? l Gardening l Stonework l Clean up/Tidying l Concrete repairs l Fence repairs l Pointing/Repointing l Cutting/Chopping firewood. Honest Service Provided at a Reasonable Rate. Phone: 087 2176205

SITUATIONS VACANT < CO M PA N I O N / C A R E R WANTED: For eldery lady in the Roscommon area to assist with outings and shopping, one day per week with view to extra hours. Full driving licence and fluent english essential. Apply to PO Box No 2054 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

SITUATIONS WANTED < MAN AVAILABLE: For gardening, painting, powerwashing and clean-ups etc. Tel: 086 2200520

PERSONAL < WANTED: Wonderful lady to keep me company. Age 55 - 60. Tel: 087 2327295

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

086 2437376

USEFUL SERVICES

Francis Rock Quality Kitchens & Wardrobes

Without the Showroom Prices Ph: 087 444 3192 Roxboro, Roscommon. Email: francisrock.ie@gmail.com

TUITION

ROSCOMMON

MATHS GRINDS

Spaces available for 3rd, 5th & 6th year students First Grind absolutely FREE Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine Beirne 086 3688302

TURF AVAILABLE

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

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: 2020 hand harvested/screened turf, shed stored. Delivered in various sized loads, great value - O.A.P. discount. Tel: 087 4350736 < TOP QUALITY TURF: 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone: 083 0684011

TRUCKS WANTED

Trucks wanted Daf CF75, CF85 Tractors units. Box body, Curtain sider, Cab & Chassie, Tipper 6 & 8 wheelers DAF XF 95 & 105 Tractor Units - up to 2012 Volvo FL6 18, FL7, FL 220 any body type, Box body, Tipper etc. Merc 814, SK 1824 Actros and bigger Old MAN Trucks Old Scania and Hino Tippers Mitsubishi Canter 7.5 Ton up to 2001 Toyota Hilux, Dyna, Nissan Cabstar up to 2005 Renault Trucks up to 1999 Renault Premium 6x2 up to 2013 Lexus GS300-350 Lexus RX petrol up to 2006 Nissan Micra up to 2003 Toyota Yaris, Corolla and Avenisis up to 2005 Any old truck considered BOUGHT FOR EXPORT AND RESALE

Tel. 087 1922154

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

Classifieds USEFUL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

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

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

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

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available 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.

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES SWEENEY Imelda

MANNION Pat Joe

Strokestown Road, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Imelda who died on 2nd April 2020.

Cloonara, Derrane, Roscommon Who passed away on 9th April 2015 (6th Anniversary)

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs

Our lives go on without you but nothing is the same we have to hide our heartache when someone speaks your name So sad are the hearts that love you silent are the tears that fall living without you is the hardest part of all.

Always loved and sadly missed by her loving daughter Florence, sisters, brothers and extended family.

HANDYMAN

< AGRI SHEDS WASHED: Primed and painted, all work guaranteed. Phone: 086 8770711

Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

A smile for all a heart of gold the very best this world could hold. Never selfish, always kind those are the memories you left behind. Those who think of Pat Joe today say a Rosary in his name.

Always remembered by his brothers, sisters, brotherin-law, sister-in-law, nieces and nephews.

Mannion Eileen Castlestrange, Castlecoote, Roscommon Who died on 26th of April 2014 (7th Anniversary)

Always remembered and sadly missed by your loving sister and best friend Ann.

SHEDS

CONTACT HAZEL

Divine Mercy Sunday

086 4679798 < HANDYMAN AVAILABLE: To hang gates on farmyard entrances, Roscommon Leitrim area. Phone: 089 4929338

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

087 6758874

No farewell words were spoken no time to say goodbye you were gone before I knew and only God knows why.

CONTACT JOHN

Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

PAINTER & DECORATOR

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

KELLY Thomas

HUNT Annie Ballinderry, Four-Mile-House. In loving memory of Annie who passed away on 9th April 1990.

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

Always remembered by your family.

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

Loved and missed by his wife Kitty and family. -----------------------

KELLY Thomas (Tom) Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (4thAnniversary)

Deeply loved and never forgotten by Martin and family. Mass will be celebrated at a later date.

Phil, Donald and family. Private Mass on Thursday, 8th April.

O’GRADY Noel

You left us peaceful memories your love is still our guide and though we cannot see you you are always by our side.

Fondly remembered by his family and friends. Anniversary Mass for Noel will be held at a later date.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam

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Racecourse Road, Roscommon (16th and 3rd Anniversaries) In loving memory of our parents James who died on April 15th, 2005, and Peggy who died on April 4th, 2018, late of Racecourse Road, Roscommon.

Your memories are precious, your presence is missed. You will fondly be remembered by all of us.

Chapel Lane, Roscommon and St. John’s, Lecarrow (11th Anniversary) Who died on 10th April 2010

Eileen, your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words, and missed beyond measure.

CONWAY James and Peggy

notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

or call us on 090 66 34633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon 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.

Those we love must some day pass beyond our present sight must leave us and the world we know without their radiant light. But we know that like a candle their lovely light will surely shine to brighten up another place more perfect, more divine. And in the realm of Heaven where they shine so warm and bright. Our loved ones live forevermore in God’s eternal light. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your daughters, Maureen and Sinéad; sons, Gerard, Carl, James, Cormac and John; grandchildren and great grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Tuesday, 20th April in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 11am.

MONTH’S MIND KILHEENEY Michael Who passed away on 5th March 2021

Michael’s heartbroken mother Rose, brothers John, Martin and Simon, sister Helen and extended family wish to express our sincere gratitude to our wonderful family, friends and neighbours who called to our home with Mass Cards, flowers and refreshments. Thank you also for all your heartfelt phone calls and messages of support on our very recent painful loss. We are eternally grateful to each and every one of you for your kindness. 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. May his gentle soul Rest In Peace.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

Classifieds

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES GACQUIN John William Kilderney, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

In loving memory of John William Gacquin, whose anniversary occurs on 10 April 2021. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain. To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. So Rest In Peace dear loved one. And thanks for all you’ve done. We pray that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won.

Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by his son William, daughter Maureen, daughters-inlaw Rosaleen and Carmel, grandchildren Colm, Suzanna and Raymond. Anniversary Mass will be held in the Church of the Risen Christ, Kiltoom on Sunday, 11th April at 11am.

THANKSGIVINGS UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. Thank you for favours received. L.M.

McCORMACK David Antogher Court (1st Anniversary) In loving memory of David McCormack who died on 12th April 2020.

A life well lived is a precious gift, of hope, strength and grace, from someone who has made our world a brighter, better place. It’s filled with moments, sweet and sad with smiles and sometimes tears, with friendships formed and good times shared, and laughter through the years. A life well lived is a legacy, of joy and pride and pleasure, a living, lasting memory our grateful hearts will treasure.

CRAVEN Michael

KIERNAN Seamus

CONNAUGHTON Catherine

Abbeyville, Roscommon and Knockcroghery (8th Anniversary) Who died on 10th April 2013

(10th Anniversary) In loving memory of my darling husband Seamus Kiernan, who died on the 16th of April, 2011. R.I.P.

In loving memory of our mother, Catherine Connaughton who passed away on 13th April, 2008.

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

Sadly missed by his family and friends.

MURRAY Lawrence Kilclough, Newbridge (10th Anniversary) In loving memory of Lawrence (Larry) Murray who passed away on April 14th 2011.

Lovingly remembered by all his family and friends. David’s Anniversary Mass will be held at a later date.

THANKSGIVINGS PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception aparecida Oh! St. Rita of Cascia and Saint Jude, worker of miracles and helper of impossible causes, pray for me. St. Expedite, Saint of urgent causes, St. Edwigs, the saint of the needy you know how desprate I feel, please ask Jesus to help me. (Here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified forever. Pray - one Our Father, one Hail Mary and one Gloria, pray for three days, publish on third day, see what happens on the fourth day. Thanks to St. Expedite and St. Michael. M.C.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Sometimes we just sit quietly reflecting for a while imagining your voice, your face, your warm and loving smile. For it’s so lovely to recall the happy times we had when you played such a special role as both husband and Dad And at this very special time we’d only wish you knew that we’d give all the world today for one more hour with you. But we still have our memories and since we’ve been apart it comforts us so much to know that your right here in our hearts.

Forever loved and dearly missed by his loving wife Anne, daughters Noreen and Martina, son John, sons-in-law Seamus and Shane, grandchildren Eleanor, Lily, Larry, Patrick and brother Andrew. Anniversary Mass via Zoom Sunday, 11th April from Newbridge Church at 11.30am.

Email or call for Sample Pack

The love of a wonderful husband is something that always lives on. Filling the days with sweet memories you still feel the warmth of his caring ways, his wisdom will never depart. For the love of a wonderful husband, forever lives on in my heart. Memories grow deeper as time passes on I long for your presence and a face that is gone. I think of your sayings and picture your smile, I know you are not lost, just gone for a while.

Loved dearly and sadly missed by his wife Bridie, son James, daughter-in-law Joanne and grandchildren Brendan, Ryan and Owen. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Friday, 16th April at 11am.

HEVICAN Patrick Joseph

Athleague. (13th Anniversary)

Memory drifts to scenes long past, time rolls on, but memories last. Sunshine passes, shadows fall, love’s remembrance outlasts all.

Greatly missed by your family and your beloved grandchildren Emily, Abbie and Evan and vovo in Heaven to Mila and Luca. Anniversary Mass for our mother and father, Brodie Connaughton, on Sunday 16th May, 10.00am at St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague.

MANNION Anne Lus Leàna, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of our dear mother and grandmother who passed away on the 14th April 2019

MURRAY Anthony

Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 14th of April 2020

We the family of the late Anthony Murray wish to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the kindness and support shown to us on the sad loss of a husband, father, brother and uncle. Thank you to all who sent mass cards, sympathy cards, wrote letters, made phone calls and left messages on social media and RIP.ie. We were also comforted by the tributes paid to Anthony by Fianna Fáil, Roscommon County Council and O.S.I. To our wonderful neighbours who stood outside their homes as the cortege travelled to the Church and had the Athleague flag flying in his memory. Thanks to “We Are Athleague”, Athleague Hurling Club, Fuerty Football Club and Fianna Fáil for the Guard of Honour. To Ivan Connaughton, Michael Hourigan and “We Are Athleague” for recording and live streaming Anthony’s Funeral Mass. We are extremely grateful. Thank you to Canon Eugene McLoughlin for supporting us spiritually and making arrangements for the Funeral Mass. A special thank you to Fr. Pravin Dhason for celebrating the Funeral Mass and making it so meaningful and personal and also for officiating at the burial. Thank you to the medical professionals involved in Anthony’s care during his long illness, his G.P.’s Dr. Farrell (retired) and Dr. David Harrison, Professor Geraldine McCarthy and her team at the Mater Hospital, Dr. David Lappin and his team at the Wellstone Clinic, Merlin Park Hospital and finally to the Doctors and Nurses of the Shannon Ward, U.C.H.G. who took excellent care of Anthony in his final days when we could not be with him. Many thanks to David Hynes, Pharmacist and his staff for willingly supplying Anthony’s medication when it was needed even out of hours. Thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Anthony’s final resting place with care and attention to detail. A special thank you to Funeral Director Henry Hamrock for his professionalism, respect and sensitivity in the handling of Anthony’s funeral arrangements. To An Garda Síochána for traffic management. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Due to the current restrictions, Anthony’s First Anniversary Mass will be held at a later date.

Lisnamult, Roscommon (24th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear brother and uncle, Patrick Joseph, who died on 8th April 1997. R.I.P. Our hearts are full of memories, with pride we speak your name. Though life goes on without you, it will never be the same. Your memory is very special, your presence missed so much, you will always be remembered and loved by all of us. If we follow your example, we will never go wrong.

Remembered and never forgotten by his sister Philomena, niece Roseanne and all the family.

We thought of you today but that is nothing new we thought about you yesterday and days before that too. We think of you in silence and often speak your name all we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake from which we will never part God has you in his arms we have you in our hearts.

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

Sadly missed by her loving family.

Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723 E-mail: anthonymurrayandsons@gmail.com

Anne’s 2nd Anniversary Mass will be streamed live from St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday the 24th April at 7.30pm. The link is CHURCHTV.IE

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Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

We SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

uPVC Window and Door Locksmith We are the only Licensed Window and Door Locksmith in Roscommon

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

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

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

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

• Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted and Double Glazed Units • Reseal Windows and Doors

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417 WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

- CCTV Camera Inspection

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt:

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

Tel: 090

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350

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

Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

BLINDS

Contact Pat Hanley on

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial H91 P5k5 BlockEstate, 12, Galway Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

All NCT Failures l 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 l

INSURANCE CLAIMS

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

C astlerea ELV Recycling Ltd ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231

LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING DURING THESE DIFFICULT WEEKS YOU MUST CALL IN ADVANCE TO ORDER REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS Ring us from your car when you arrive for collection of your order/appointment. We ask that all payments be made by card if possible and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food. While on the premises we ask all customers to observe the 2m rule at all times.

Loss Assessor/Claims Management

Martin Hibbitt CDIP LA, APA-PL

Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting Approved Product Adviser Member of the PSAG-GI Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

M: 087 9818153 E: info@icr.ie

VETERINARY

T: 091 380900 W: www.icr.ie

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

FARMING

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Lowest price guaranteed

RECYCLING

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

Chris’s Window Service

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

INSULATION

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

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.

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

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

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY

Cleaning Services • Roscommon

TEL: (090) 96 88606

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

BRENDAN DOOLIN

S tephen H oare

VETERINARY

Daily collection

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

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

DRIVING LESSONS

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

Classifieds

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

NewsPeople

APPOINTMENTS

WORK FROM HOME ONLY TELE-SALES POSITION Painters & Painting Foremen Required

Requirements of the Role are as follows;

We Offer • Variable and suitable working hours. • Full time & Part time position. • An excellent payment package. • A full training programme (no sales experience necessary).

To apply call: 041-9803899 /086-0581174 or e-mail CV to hragencysales@gmail.com

PAINTING FOREMEN

Honda Rossies! Declan Woods pictured on St. Patrick’s Day in Cloonmaul, Loughglynn, on his 1972 Honda 50. Photograph: Mick McCormack

Sandra and Ruadh McNulty pictured celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Cloonmaul, Loughglynn. Photograph: Mick McCormack

Around the County

Qualified Electrician and Apprentice Electrician

Maintenance Electrician

(1st, 2nd or 3rd year) Required in the Longford, Leitrim or Roscommon area for immediate start. Please send CV to: electricalvacancy2021@gmail.com

Donna and Lauren Raftery pictured dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day in Cloonmaul, Loughglynn. Photograph: Mick McCormack

Mary Hunt and Donna Hannelly, pictured dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day. Photograph: Mick McCormack

The successful candidate will have a relevant trade qualification and at least 1 years post qualification experience. The ideal candidate will have a background within a manufacturing/industrial business, preferably within the food or packaging industries but not essential. This position is fulltime. Please note that some roles offered are on a rotational morning/day/evening shift basis and candidates must be available to work a variety of shifts. Should you wish to apply for this role, please do so in writing to:

The HR department, Kepak Athleague, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. or email ellen.buckley@kepak.com. For more information please visit kepak.com/careers/

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for inclusion on a panel for the position of:

Casual Part Time Tour Guides Temporary Positions

Douglas Hyde Centre, Portahard, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB?

Application form and full particulars may be obtained from the Human Resources Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98. Web: www.roscommoncoco.ie E-mail: recruit@roscommoncoco.ie Telephone: (090) 6637144

over 80,000 people every

Candidates may be shortlisted on the basis of information supplied on application form.

week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 4.00 p.m. on Thursday 22nd April 2021

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Canvassing will disqualify. Roscommon County Council is an equal opportunities employer. Is fóstóir comhionannais deiseanna í Comhairle Chontae Roscomaín

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DRIVE-BY PARADE! Pictured is the recent St. Patrick’s Day drive-by parade in Slatta. Photograph: Mick McCormack

DRIVE-BY PARADE! Pictured at the recent St. Patrick’s Day drive-by parade in Slatta were Triona and Patrick McGuire. Photograph: Mick McCormack

Pictured dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day were Gaelscoil de hÍde pupils Georgia and Shay. Photograph by Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

Sports PEOPLE

‘A stable financial future’ Roscommon GAA says it has ‘turned another financial corner’ and that its finances are now ‘back on track’. On Monday, 22nd of March the Interim Finance Committee, appointed by Croke Park, stood down and passed all financial control back to the County Board Officers. At the final meeting, held virtually due to Covid restrictions, Interim Finance Committee Chairman John Murphy complimented the massive efforts of Roscommon GAA in completing a remarkable financial turnaround in just over three years. Since its inception in 2017, the Interim Finance Committee have assisted the Board in monitoring and managing significant income and expenditure items by conducting regular financial scenario planning and recommending a long-term framework. In a press statement, Roscommon GAA said: ‘With full financial control, the Roscommon County Board now looks forward to a stable financial future, and hope to commence capital development works at Dr. Hyde Park and the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the near future, while also ensuring teams are adequately prepared, and the current coaching structures continue their excellent work. ‘Roscommon GAA are the envy of many counties due to the very strong commercial and fundraising arm, Club Rossie, which has raised €2.1 mil-

lion (net) during the past three years. This committee, working alongside the County Board Officers, the County Executive, and all the clubs within the county, are responsible, alongside our two main sponsors, Seán Mulryan and Tom Hunt, for reverting Roscommon GAA to a stable financial footing’. Roscommon Treasurer David O’Connor thanked the outgoing Interim Finance Committee for all their help,

and commended the finance team in Croke Park, led by Kathy Slattery, for advising and guiding them through this tough period. Mr. O’Connor added: “We have terrific supporters, are blessed with two wonderful main sponsors in Seán Mulryan and Tom Hunt, and with Club Rossie going from strength to strength each year, the future looks bright”. The statement continued: ‘Roscommon GAA will now proceed to appoint a new

Finance Committee in 2021. An audit committee will also be appointed with external independent members to oversee and review regularly how the Roscommon GAA County Board are running their affairs. This will ensure continued good governance. The County Committee will confirm both Committees over the next few weeks, and then, the make-up of these Committees, along with all our other subcommittees, will be announced’. Roscommon GAA Chairperson Brian Carroll looks forward to some normality returning to the GAA scene later this year. He says: “As a county, we found ourselves in a very challenging financial position in 2017. Since then, with the help of the Interim Finance Committee, we worked together to get our financial situation back on track. I want to thank everyone in Club Rossie, the members of the Interim Finance Committee, members of the County and Management Committees, all our clubs, our two main sponsors Seán Mulryan and Tom Hunt, and all our other sponsors for their continued support in reaching this milestone. “We must now ensure that our financial situation stays in a healthy state, while continuing to progress the GAA in Roscommon, both on and off the playing field. Hopefully, before long we will see all our players back on the pitch and our supporters at games, with everyone back where they belong”.

Leitrim mourns its sporting hero…Packie McGarty < TONY CONBOY

It was with sadness that I, a Roscommon man, heard of the passing this week of Packie McGarty, Leitrim’s greatest Gaelic footballer, at the age of 88. I feel that it would be very difficult for young people today to understand what icons like Packie meant to a county then. His decade, in the main, was the 1950s, when each of the five Connacht counties had their most distinctive and arguably greatest football heroes; Galway had Purcell and Stockwell, Sligo had Naas O’Dowd (later eclipsed by Mickey Kearins), Mayo had any number of great players such as Paraic Carney, ‘Big’ Tom Langan and so on, Roscommon had Gerry O’Malley, and Leitrim had McGarty and Flynn. From Mohill, McGarty showed his potential early, and began to represent the county at the age of 16, playing senior before he played minor, as legend has it. Due to the circumstances of birth, his was not a career endowed with success and medals, but one of relentless striving to get to the upper levels of the hill. It required a deep well of optimism that the next game, the next challenge, might be the one that

Pictured is the winning Connacht Railway Cup team of 1958.

succeeds. And we did see it later in 1994 when, with a dam-burst of emotion, Leitrim finally won a Connacht title again and played in an All-Ireland semi-final in Croke Park. Led by McGarty and Flynn, Leitrim in the 1950s had a fine team. They lost three Connacht finals in a row to Connacht kingpins Galway, but in 1958 in St. Coman’s Park, they came within a whisker of making the breakthrough, with McGarty playing the game of a hero. Leitrim’s, and especially McGarty’s, failure to get over the line that day (which I, as a boy, witnessed) gave little

joy to his opponents Purcell and Stockwell. McGarty and teammates continued to toil in the Leitrim colours during the 1960s, always with hope in their hearts, and McGarty as their model and inspiration. It is a benchmark of that era that a county’s finest sporting idol had to emigrate to labour in England, being unable to acquire any meaningful work at home. It is said that Galway’s top brass tried to get him to play with Galway, and guaranteed a decent job for him in the sugar factory in Tuam. However, his loyalty to his home county in that respect trumped all. Thankfully, there was one stage

where all of us Connacht people could unite and shout for Purcell, Mayo’s Edward Moriarty from Boyle, O’Dowd from Sligo, O’Malley from Roscommon, and of course, McGarty. That was in the Railway Cup competition between the provinces. Connacht could hold its own, and sometimes better, at the St. Patrick’s Day match, and crowds would pour in from the west to support in unison. I imagine Packie must have revelled in the company of the other Connacht giants like Purcell and O’Malley, as the province won in ’57 and ’58. He came to the team in ’54 and continued until ’67. He was a notable absentee in ’59, ’60, and 1961, probably in England then. I feel that there will be much reflection in Leitrim, and with the Leitrim diaspora who’re located in far-flung cities like New York, where he also played. Reflection and some tears too, especially amongst senior people who saw him strive against all the odds with skill, tenacity, style and enduring courage, realising that fate was not at his back. His memory will live long throughout the proud county of Leitrim. Packie McGarty was a special sportsman, whose reward will be in a fairer place.

Ladies back in action next month < SEAMUS DUKE

The Roscommon Ladies footballers now know what lies ahead of them when inter-county action returns in May, as the groupings for the league have been announced. Roscommon will play in Division 3A alongside Down, Fermanagh and Sligo. Kildare, Laois, Wicklow and Longford will make up Division 3B. The fixture list will be finalised later this week. The programme of games will commence on Sunday, May 23rd. There will be another round of games on May 30th, with the final round on June 6th. The semi-finals are scheduled for June 13th, with the finals down for decision on June 27th.

Gerry O’Malley meeting Packie McGarty at the launch of Sean Óg ÓCeallacháin’s book titled ‘Giants of Gaelic Football’.

Tony Conboy and Packie McGarty pictured in ‘The House of Lords’, Dublin on October 8th 2007 at the launch of Sean Óg Ó Ceallacháin’s book, ‘Giants of Gaelic Football’.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Racing in Ireland this evening is on the level in Gowran Park, first race off at 4 pm. Tomorrow, racing is in the sunny southeast at Wexford over the sticks, as normal, off at 4.15 pm. There is a meeting on the all-weather at Dundalk’s Polytrack on Saturday, racing starts at 1.10 pm. Sunday there is racing on flat over turf at Leopardstown featuring 2 Group races, The Ballysax Stakes and The 1000 Guineas Trial Stakes, backed up by the Listed 2000 Guineas Trial Stakes, away at 1.40 pm and five races are being covered by TG4. Cross channel the Grand National meeting at Aintree starts today and features four Grade 1 races including the Aintree Hurdle and Bowl Chase. Tiger Roll takes on eight home-trained horses and will have his work cut out to beat Colin Tizzard’s Native River, fourth in the Gold Cup and twice successful over course and distance, with Clan Des Obeaux and Waiting Patiently in with chances. Heart says Tiger Roll but Native River ran well in the Gold Cup and is taken to turn Tizzard’s season around. There are two Irish runners in the hurdle, Denise Foster’s Abracadabras and Henry de Bromhead’s Jason The Militant, who take on nine English-trained headed by Paul Nicholls’ Mcfabulous, who are vying for favouritism. Ollie Murphy’s Brewin’upastorm and Tom Symonds’ Song For Someone will be in the shake-up. Emmet Mullins sends over The Shunter for the open-

ing Grade 1 Novice Chase looking for a hattrick of wins having pocketed the £100,000 bonus at Cheltenham. He faces six runners and if he has recovered from Cheltenham will go close. In the Foxhunters, the Mullins father and son team, Willie and Patrick, will take all the beating with Billaway, but David Christie has been aiming Some Day at this race and on his run in Down Royal, where he won as he liked by 12l, he has every chance of upsetting the odds. In the last, de Bromhead has two with Rachel Blackmore on the apparent outsider Jan Maat and Jordan Gainsford significantly claiming seven off Philip Reynolds’ Moon Over Germany. Moon Over Germany e/w. Tomorrow, Peter Fahey’s Cheltenham winner Belfast Banter runs in the Grade 1 Top Novices Hurdle but Third Time Lucky for Dan and Harry Skelton catches my eye and is a nice price. Politilogue and Fakir D’Oudaires will be all the rage in the Marsh Chase but Notebook did not have a hard race at Cheltenham and can win for de Bromhead and Blackmore. On Saturday, Jonjo O’Neill’s Cloth Cap is a very short 4/1 favourite for the big one and if he gets a clear run, as the class horse in the field, should win. Three Irish challengers who have been well supported this week are de Bromhead’s Minnella Times, Paul Nolan’s Discorama and Denise Foster’s Farclas and all three have live chances. As will John Mc-

Fairyhouse Festival Review Willie Mullins picked up where he left off at Cheltenham as leading trainer with eight winners at Fairyhouse over the weekend and one at Cork for good measure. Mullins had two winners on Saturday, four on Sunday and two on Monday with his Cork winner on Sunday. Punters got a great start to the festival with the first three favourites coming in. Salt Wind won the opening maiden hurdle for the brothers Kennedy, Mike the trainer and Paddy the jockey. The 6-Y-O gelding won by 4½l and 1¾l from Part Time Farmer and Edison Kent. The second, the O’Reilly Hunter Chase, saw Solomon Grundy touch off Stand Up And Fight by a neck with Jury Duty 17l further back. Both winners were returned at 9/4. Elimay, odds on, opened the Mullins account in the third beating outsider Demi Plie and Mount Ida. The ladies provided some relief for the layers as Ificudiwud won the Ladies Grand National under Liz Lalor for Noel Meade at 14/1. In the Grade B Novice Handicap Hurdle, Lady Breffini completed the Mullins’ double ridden by his nephew Danny. The featured Grade A RAYO Handicap Hurdle Hearts Are Trumps

Shor t putts (News from local golf clubs)

Castlerea Golf Club Golf returns on Monday, April 26th and absence has certainly made the heart grow fonder in Castlerea! The club looks forward to welcoming new and existing members and club President Mary, Lady Captain Kathy and Captain Michael can’t wait to see you all. Membership Convenor Tony can be contacted on 087-1278066. Meanwhile, the winning bonus ball in the Castlerea Golf Club lotto for March 31st was 45. Winners were Marie Baggot, Daire Silke, Maureen Coyne and John Walsh. Each receive €100.

Some Man and Barry O'Neill.

Connell’s Some Neck if he gets a run, he is Number 42 at present and needs two to drop out. Could be a good day for the Irish and my five for small e/w bets are Discorama, Foster’s A Storyteller, Nicholls’ Shantou Flyer, along with outsiders Mick Channon’s Hold The Note, if he gets in, and Jessica Harrington’s Jett, hoping they will all finish the course. JP McManus owns seven runners and Mark Walsh rides Any Second Now with Rachel Blackmore on Minella times. The old fashioned way of sticking a pin in the field might be the best way to find the winner so good luck to all readers and I hope you win a few euros.

brought Des McDonagh back to the winner’s enclosure as the 8-Y-O finished ½ l and 1 ¾ l in front of Magic Tricks and Ruaille Buaille, a 1, 2 for owner JP McManus. Punters were back on track as both bumpers were won by the favourites, Party Central for Cullentra house in the penultimate mares and Letsbeclearaboutit in the finale for Gavin Cromwell. Mullins kept up his and the punters run when El Barra won the opener at 5/4 from Surprise Package and Buddy Rich. The second saw Philip Fenton back in the Number 1 spot with 11/1 shot Stand Off. Mullins was back in business with the joint favourite, Echoes In The Rain came home under Paul Townend at 2/1. There were international celebrations in Dubai as Skyace won the Group 1 Mares Novice Hurdle from Gauloise and Hook Up by ½l and 10l for Shark Hanlon and The Birdinthehand Syndicate, headed by All-Ireland club medal winner Cathal McHugh from St. Brigid’s. This was the Shark’s first Grade 1 winner and only cost £600 at the Ascot Sales. She has now won over €112,000 for the lads and is now a valuable brood mare.

Racing News On Sunday in Cork, a blast from the past as 13-Y-O Josies Orders, Enda Bolger’s three times Cheltenham and Punchestown cross country winner for Nina Carberry, rolled back the years to win the Munster Waste Management Handicap Hurdle by 2l and 2¼l from Minella On Line and Ellipsism under Phidelma Elvin. He also won at both tracks for Mark Walsh, and we will probably see him back over the banks in Punchestown this year. Irish point-to-pointing resumes on Saturday with Duhallow holding a meeting confined to 4 & 5-Y-Os at Cork on the racecourse. Scarteen Hunt

Jessica Harrington and Robbie Power teamed up for a double in the next two races as Ashdale Bob and Jungle Junction won the Grade 2 Novice Hurdle and the Grade A Novice Chase respectively, both at 10/1. Egality Man fell in the hurdle race behind Ashdale Bob and Paul Townend injured a bond in his foot and missed the rest of the festival meeting. In the penultimate, Mullins provided a 1, 2, 3 but not with the favourite, Asterion Forlonge, who finished third. The race was won by his outsider Janidil at 10/1 with 8/1 shot Franco De Port runner-up. Mullins and son Patrick won the bumper with the favourite Dark Raven from Liz Doyle’s Itso Fury and nephew Emmet’s So Scottish. Monday’s card opened with the favourite, Shanroe, winning the Novice Handicap Hurdle for trainer Karl Thornton and Donagh Myler. The Juvenile Hurdle saw a set back for punters as the odds-on, 4/7, favourite Teahupoo was beaten 3l by Noel Meade’s Jeff Kidder ridden by Sean Flanagan. In the Fairyhouse Steel Handicap Hurdle, Francis Flood’s Millen To One divided the joint favourites, the winner Francis Casey’s Max Flamingo and third Jessica Harrington’s Lynwood Gold.

hold a similar card at Tipperary racecourse on Sunday. Delighted to see some form of point to point racing back but it does not cater for the bread and butter people of the game and is aimed at the sales of 4 & 5-Y-Os, the big money game. Roll on the return of real point-to-pointing. Punchestown Racecourse have announced that eCOMM Merchant Solutions will sponsor the first Grade 1 of the season’s finale, the Champion Novice Hurdle, on Tuesday, April 27th. This two mile contest will carry a prize fund of €100,000 and has been won by the likes of Hurricane Fly, Faugheen and the great Moscow Flyer.

Francis Casey is a son of the late Peter, famous for his interview with Treacy Piggott live on television after Flemenstar won the Arkle at Leopardstown. Both the Grade 2 races went to Closutton with second favourite Stormy Ireland winning the hurdle under Danny Mullins and the fav., Easy Game, winning the chase under Brian Hayes. Next up, the biggest shock in Irish racing as Freewheelin’ Dylan became the longest price winner of the Irish Grand National at 150/1 for Dermot McLoughlin who trains a few miles from the course. Jockey Ricky Doyle, 27, was having his first ride in the race, jumped off, dictated the pace, and made every post a winning one. Cullentra’s Run Wild Fred was second and Enjoy D’allen, trained by Ciaran Murphy, third, at a nice price of 40/1 if you took my e/w recommendation last week. McLoughlin completed an almost unnoticed double yesterday as Mr. Josie Wales had won the opening maiden hurdle in Cork. The final race of the festival was a handicap chase won by Padraig Roche’s Uisce Beatha and ridden by Simon Torrens who held on from Lord Lariat by a neck with Rapid Response another 4¼l away.

Rugby

Connacht Rugby announces new coaching team Connacht Rugby have announced a new coaching team for next season. Beginning in 2021-22, Peter Wilkins will move to a new role of senior coach, where he will have primary responsibility for attack. He will be supported by Mossy Lawler, who has been appointed assistant attack and skills coach, in addition to Colm Tucker, who comes on board as defence and forwards technical skills coach. A process to recruit a new forwards coach is also now currently underway, following the announcement of the departure of Jimmy Duffy at the end of this season. These changes will take the total number on the professional coaching team from four to five, providing Head Coach Andy Friend with greater coverage across each of the respective areas of the game. All three coaches have signed two-year contracts, running in tandem with Andy Friend’s recently announced extension as head coach.

Roscommon People Friday 09 April 2021

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