09 December 2022 Roscommon People

Festive festival to kick-start ‘normal’ Christmas

throughout the

hopeful that the first

Christmas since 2019

result in a timely trading boost, even against a backdrop of consumer caution due to the current cost of living challenges.

In the county town, the final touches are being put to the 2022 Roscommon Christmas Festival, which takes place this weekend. Around the county, businesses – and the wider public – are looking forward to the first ‘normal’ Christmas season since the Covid-19 pandemic struck in early 2020.

This week, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce urged the public to concentrate their festive season shopping in the locality. “Every €20 spent locally is worth €100 to the local economy” the Chamber said in a statement issued to the Roscommon People

The festive atmosphere is set

to build in Roscommon town this Saturday and Sunday, 10th and 11th of December (1-6 pm) when a Christmas Festival takes place. There will be music, street performances and a Christmas Market featuring over 50 stalls, offering food, drink, and gift options, with an emphasis on local produce.

Santa is due to drive through the town square on his sleigh at around 4.30 pm on both days!

The festival is a collaboration between Roscommon County Council, Roscommon LEADER, Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon Town Team.

The Chamber and the Roscommon People are once again linking up to drive home the ‘shop local’ message and are urging everyone across the county to support local businesses and local employment. See full coverage inside, and please support our advertisers.

#RoscommonTogether

The ‘Crochet Christmas Tree’ at The Square, Roscommon. Picture: Kieran Croghan.

Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS)

Please explain the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS). What is it, who qualifies and how can I avail of it if I am entitled?

The Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) was introduced by the Government to help businesses cope with rising energy costs. The scheme will be available to tax compliant businesses that are chargeable to a designated tax category. TBESS has been put in place to help struggling businesses with energy costs incurred from 1st September 2022 until 28th February, 2023.

Eligibility is confined to businesses that can prove that the cost of an average unit gas or electricity price has increased by at least 50% when compared to the same month in the previous year. Businesses must obtain copies of their energy bills for 2021 and 2022.

If eligible, TBESS may provide financial as sistance of up to 40% of the extra cost. The credit will be calculated as 40% of the excess of the 2022 bill over the 2021 bill, capped at €10,000 per trade per month.

Claims may be made in respect of each calendar month (from 1st September 2022 until 28th Febru ary, 2023) and must be made within 4 months of the end of the claim period to which a particular electricity or natural gas bill relates.

This scheme will be operated on a self-assessment basis and administered by the Revenue Commis sioners. Application for the scheme can be done online. Businesses considered eligible to apply can do so using the e-Registration tool on Revenue’s Online Service. A claims portal will be made avail able on Revenue at the start of December. I would suggest that you check www.revenue.ie for further details.

WATCHING People

With PAUL HEALY

who to

All I’m saying is, I passed your house FOUR times, and you waved at me every time! So nice of you!

Never happened!

It most certainly did! I went into town and back twice, and on each occasion you had a big, friendly wave. Actually, you seemed quite animated!

I have no recollection…

You were waving your hands franti cally from the upstairs window…I’ve never known you to be so friendly!

At one stage, you playfully waved the sweeping brush at me!

Oh, that! I wasn’t waving at you! I was trying to erect our outdoor lights! It’s a task that requires balance, patience, timing…the brush is a key part of the… torture!

Oh, okay! Did you succeed?

Eventually! I got the lights up, but the brush ended up on the dog’s head!

(They pause to check if their respective Christmas lights displays are still work ing; they are)

I can’t believe you went along with everything in the pub on Saturday night…

Huh?

The Secret Santa of my nightmares!

Oh, sorry…

Thanks to you, we’re in a Secret Santa with four of the pub regulars!

I know, I know…

Suddenly I’m in Kris Kindle – or Secret Santa – with my family, my wife’s family, my work colleagues, and now the pub regulars! HELP!

Do you remember who you’re buying for?

I don’t even remember where I put the printout of the Excel Spread sheet with all the details on it!

Don’t type the details anywhere, it’s all

meant to be secret!

But how am I supposed to remember who I’m buying for?!

There’s no need to panic…

No need to panic! It gets so confusing. Last year, I mixed up my wife’s pres ent with yours! You got her expensive perfume…and she wasn’t too pleased with that footballer’s autobiography!

It was nice perfume…

As for adding on the pub regulars, what in God’s name are we meant to buy them? What do you get for the Pub Bore?

A gym voucher that can only be used at the precise time you and I go for our midweek pint?

Excellent! But seriously, my head will be wrecked with all these different Secret Santa inclusions…

You can do it! Tokens rule!

Well, I’d like to make some creative choices too! It’s SO stressful!

It’s fine, there’s over two weeks to go.

As long as all this purchasing for oth ers doesn’t distract me too much…I need to make sure I look after my nearest and dearest!

Thank you, I appreciate that!

I kind of meant…my wife!

Okay! Well, if you get into any lastminute difficulty, I haven’t used all that perfume from last year!

HO HO HO!

Kylian Mbappé

The young French superstar scored twice against Poland to send his team into the World Cup quar ter-finals and shoot to the top of the ‘Golden Boot’ charts with five goals in four games thus far

Harry & Meghan

A Netflix series featuring the Duke & Duchess of Sussex (Harry & Meghan) is available from today, 8th of December. Paul Healy won’t be watching (see page 6)

Warren Gatland

Prepare for some more mind games and tetchy exchanges between ‘Team Ireland’ and ‘Team Wales’ in the New Year, this after the com bative and accomplished Warren Gatland was confirmed as new head coach of Wales, whom he was previ ously in charge of (2008 to 2019)

Dr Marie Cassidy

The former State Pathologist was revealed to be one of the contestants in the new series of Dancing with the Stars, which returns to RTÉ One in Janu ary. We had no idea that being State Pathologist qualified one as a celebrity…

Sneak preview of exciting new gallery space at ETL Roscommon

Local businesswoman and contemporary artist, Rita Oates, has confirmed that she is about to launch a new gallery space at their ETL shop on Main Street, Roscommon.

The Anam Gallery will feature original works from Irish artists across a broad medium spectrum includ ing millinery, glassworks, woodworks, sculpture and painting.

Rita, who runs ETL Craft and Giftware with hus band Michael, recently featured on the popular Retail Tea Break podcast with retail advisor Melissa Moore to discuss the new venture.

“Anam Gallery was one of these things that started as a little idea and just became a mountain. It has worked out ten times better than I had ever imag ined,” she said.

“I decided I was going to move a partition in my shop, and as my husband would tell you, a lot of what I suggest is introduced as a small thing like just moving a partition!

“Our building at ETL was built in the 1800s by the Bank of Ireland. It’s a beautiful limestone building on the Main Street in Roscommon. At the back of the shop there was a coach house and for 30 years it was used as storage space. I said we’d move the partition, strip the walls back to what it was and have these beautiful stone walls upstairs and downstairs. In that space we have created an art gallery, not just for my own art but for other original pieces too”.

Rita, who featured at Art Source in the RDS last month, said featured art would include beautifully

created clothing items such as hats as well as glass, sculptures and woodwork.

“I’ll have a calendar with ten separate months in which we’ll exhibit. Roscommon is a beautiful town; within five minutes of ETL you have the park, the old jail, the Abbey, as well as beautiful restaurants like Gleeson’s Townhouse, and Rogue and Co and other shops. You can come to Roscommon, look at an art gallery and visit some of these sights and just enjoy your day here,” she said.

Podcast presenter Melissa Moore was suitably im pressed and advised Tourism Ireland to take note, describing Roscommon town as “stunning with everything available on your doorstep”. She assured listeners that Rita’s new gallery space as beautiful and said she believed the wider community would be grateful for it.

“Joe Caslin will be one of the first exhibitors. It’s going to be exciting and it’s my own opportunity to support other artists. Originals are different, and that’s nothing against prints,” Rita said.

“I love art and I love what it communicates. It’s like music. It can change our humour. I believe children get it more than we do and I’ve a few things lined up for them in this space. I’m the mother of four teach ers and two of them are very involved in art in their teaching careers so it’s going to be exciting and dif ferent,” she concluded.

< DAN DOONER

Rita and Neasa Oates pictured at Art Source in the RDS recently.

The Anam Gallery ... the new gallery space at ETL shop on Main Street, Roscommon.

Rita Oates pictured at her exhibition at Art Source in the RDS recently.

Artist Rita Oates pictured with some of her beautifully-designed greeting cards and her artwork in the background.

INTO HONOURS RETIRING TEACHERS…

In memory of Roscommon’s unofficial ‘Minister for Hurling’

< SEAMUS DUKE

Some of my very earliest GAA memories would have involved the late Johnny Haughey. He was the unoffi cial ‘Minster for Hurling’ in Roscommon for well over 60 years. I was never much of a hurler (or a footballer

either), but any time we played underage in Athleague or went to a match, Johnny was always there. He was very friendly with my late father and that’s how we first met.

As the years passed I got to know Johnny well. He was as passionate a GAA man as I have ever met. When you heard Johnny speak at a meeting you could be forgiven for having the opinion that he was stern and uncompromising, but nothing could have been further from the truth. Yes, he argued long and hard when it came to hurling and Roscommon GAA, but when the meeting was over he joined in the banter as good as anyone else.

Johnny held court at Healy’s shop in Athleague for many decades and on the few occasions that I was looking for an All-Ireland hurling ticket he would throw his eyes up to Heaven at first, but always say “Sure, I’ll have to fix you up a gráín (pronounced graeen)” – and I never went without.

Hurling was his first love, but he was a Roscommon GAA man through and through who fought tooth and nail for the county when he represented us on the Central Council for many years.

He was great company socially and loved the craic. Many a night we chatted after meetings in Waldron’s, at the Hyde Centre, the Royal Hotel or the Abbey Hotel.

Over the past few years Johnny lived with his brother Charlie in Sligo. Over that period I spoke to him a couple of times on the phone. He was as sharp as ever. He rarely missed a match on the TV or radio right up to recent weeks.

The word ‘legend’ is often bandied about too loosely – especially in modern-day society – but in the case of Johnny Haughey it hardly does justice to a long life of service to Roscommon GAA, and to hurling in particular.

To his family, to Athleague GAA, and to all his many friends, I extend my deepest sympathy. May he rest in peace.

Murphy hails Action Plan on Bullying

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the launch of a new landmark Action Plan on Bullying.

Cineáltas Action Plan on Bullying is a landmark new Action Plan to prevent and address bullying in schools.

This Action Plan has been developed in collaboration with a diverse Steering Committee and has been informed by the views of children and young people, par ents, school staff, Education Partners and individual members of the public.

The Roscommon-Galway Senator said: “Bullying in our schools is an unwelcome and unacceptable reality. This action plan has been informed by children, young people, teachers and parents. It creates a clear pathway to ensuring everyone within

our schools and outside our schools can work together to address issues of bully ing”.

He added: “Schools are vibrant, innova tive and most importantly, inclusive envi ronments for children and young people to learn and grow in. It’s not on that some children and young people are inhibited by bullying in their school, which should be a safe space”.

Cineáltas Action Plan on Bullying pro vides a collective vision and clear roadmap for how the whole education community and society can work together to prevent and address bullying in our schools. One of the main aims of this Action Plan is to provide a safe school environment where nobody feels alone and afraid to speak up.

The Elphin-Strokestown branch of INTO recently held a retirement function to mark the retirement of five local teachers. The five teachers honoured at the event were Myra Duffy (formerly of Croghan NS), Mary Tarpey (formerly of Whitehall NS), Cecily Geoghegan (formerly of Kiltrustan NS), Shane Gately (formerly of Croghan NS), and Bernie Kemple (formerly of Abbeycartron NS). The function took place in the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown. Pictured in the front row are former teachers Myra Duffy (Croghan NS), Mary Tarpey (Whitehall NS), Cecily Geoghegan (Kiltrustan NS), Shane Gately (Croghan NS), and Bernie Kemple (Abbeycartron NS, Elphin). Pictured in the back row are Hugh Lynn (Branch Chairman), Tommy Greally (INTO Central Executive Committee member), and Phia Gannon (Branch secretary).

The late Johnny Haughey pictured celebrating a Roscommon hurling success a number of years ago.

Pictured at the Roscommon Gaels Table Quiz in the Hyde Centre on Friday night were Declan Hoare and James O’Boyle. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A column by Roscommon People editor paul@roscommonpeople.ie

THURSDAY

Quinns’ worth

In ‘Quinn Country’ – which ended on RTE last night –Patricia Quinn lamented how the collapse of their empire has affected the wider family. She went on to label a local priest who had condemned a cam paign of violence against former Quinn executives as “a pure back-stabber”.

Meanwhile, the final episode culminated with a tearful Sean Quinn railing against everything that has been lost, at the injus tice of it all.

Ultimately, one contributor said, this entire saga is a trag edy. I agree, and I imagine that the loss of their fortune (and sta tus) had a devastating personal toll on the Quinn family. Still, everything is relative, and that ‘poor us’ finale must have tested the patience of many viewers. After all, the ‘High Quinns of Ireland’ still have many of the trappings of wealth.

So, the truth is that as I watched the deluded duo – im mersed in their self-pity, in the lavish mansion they still live in – I chose to keep my current reserves of empathy for the homeless in our society, the poor, the marginalised, for pa tients on trolleys, for the people who weren’t greedy but still saw their livelihoods ruined.

I expect that Christmas in the Quinns’ mansion will still surpass the festive experience of many of our suffering citizens.

FRIDAY

A quiet life?

In other news, I note the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been battling against their egos again – only to suffer another predictable defeat. They must be devastated…

I expect I’m the only person in Abbey Street to have googled the Harry and Meghan saga this morning – although it may well be that the lads working on the footpaths outside our office

urgently seek out Megxit updates during their breaks.

It’s the age old story…boy meets girl, she’s an American actress, he turns out to be her Prince Charm ing, they fall in love, get married, live in luxury, fall out with ‘The Firm’…dramatically walk away from it all, condemn the media, imply they want privacy in their new life abroad…then embark on a never-ending series of book/ podcast/chat show/documentary projects.

What is pitiful and hypocritical about the conduct of ‘Team Sussex’ since quitting the Royal family is their constant attention-seeking in the very media environment they have so often condemned. The lat est tiresome ‘development’ is the launch of a six-part Netflix series (available from the 8th of Decem ber) in which the shy couple have enthusiastically participated.

Harry and Meghan may never have explicitly stated they wanted to live the rest of their lives away from the media spotlight – it was more that they railed against media intrusion, that and the Firm’s al leged awfulness – but their constant

washing of dirty linen in public is very unseemly. They really doth protest too much!

It’s a free world – it certainly is now for Harry and Meghan – but the contradictions inherent in their approach are blatant.

They are now cashing in on their fame at every opportunity, glorying (it would appear) in embarrassing their estranged family, and con stantly drawing attention to their former and present lives…the very spotlight they claimed to want to avoid.

They justify this by continually claiming it’s about having their side of the story heard; but how many times do we need to hear it?

It is beyond boring now!

SATURDAY/SUNDAY

All to play for…

In the World Cup Round of 16, Messi starred as Argentina edged out Australia on Saturday. On Sunday, Kylian Mbappé lit up the tournament in France’s win over Poland. England remain very much in contention, 3-0 winners over Senegal.

Radio daze

MONDAY

SLIGHTLY GROUCHY CORNER: Either it’s ego, a curious radio tradition, or maybe they’re uniquely thoughtful people…

I mean, why do some radio pre senters feel the need to thank col leagues or the ‘team’ when they’re winding up their shows?

Example today: I was listening to a certain national radio station’s evening current affairs show at 6.53…foolishly expecting seven more minutes of…current affairs! Instead, the presenter went into full ‘That’s our lot for today’ mode and proceeded to thank everyone behind the scenes, live on air. Why is this necessary? You know the routine…

Presenter: “I want to thank our researchers Sharon and Cathal for doing such a wonderful job, a huge thanks of course to Debbie, who produced the show, not forgetting Ciaran on sound, indeed all the team…”

Here’s the point: The last time I was in a taxi, the driver didn’t

say: “Just before you head off there Sir, I’d like to thank my mechanic Mike for ensuring this car was fit for the road today, a special shout out to David in the car wash around the corner, and my appreciation to Karen in the filling station where I got fuel this morning…”

And, last time I was in a restaurant, the proprietor did not say: “Hey Paul, we’re just winding up for the evening… but before you leave, can I place on record my appreciation to Gerry and all the team who supply us with meat, to Mary who prepared the menu, and not forgetting Simon who picked out that great Christmas-themed background music!”

Anyways, that’s my lot for today. Eh, but before I go, I’d like to thank…

TUESDAY Street sights

Two thoughts from my after noon stroll down town.

As I passed the Council HQ, a toddler and her mother pressed their faces against the build ing’s glass exterior…to admire a beautiful Christmas display. The child’s joy and wonder summed up the magic of Christmas.

Moments later, I admired how fabulous the new town square – now adorned with festive lighting – looks at present. It will be a perfect location for this weekend’s Christmas Festival.

WEDNESDAY

Day we dreaded…

It’s freezing cold. It’s our busi est day of the year in the People office. Even worse – much, much worse – today is the first day since November 20th on which there is no World Cup football. No. Live. Football. Today.

The anguish. As long as RTE doesn’t fill the gap in the schedule with repeats of ‘The 2 Johnnies Do America’, we will get through this. And we have to do it all again tomorrow (the quarter-finals begin on Friday).

Murphy welcomes over €21m in funding for regional airports

Local Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the an nouncement this week that over €21 million in operational funding is to be provided to the airports of Shan non, Cork, Ireland West (Knock), Kerry and Donegal.

“This funding will provide targeted support for vital safety operations

at the airports such as air traffic control, fire services and security, and is in addition to €16.4 million in capital funding announced in April,” said the Senator.

“The monies will help to increase the capacity of our airports, in particular our regional airports which have shown con

siderable growth potential.

“This is evidenced by Kerry, Ireland West Airport Knock, Cork and Shannon airports each cur rently outperforming Dublin Air port in terms of a faster recovery towards the pre-Covid passenger numbers achieved in 2019,” he concluded.

Man (40s) arrested after drugs seizure in Ballaghaderreen

A man in his 40s was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the seizure of cannabis plants worth an estimated value in excess of €90,000 in Ballaghaderreen.

Gardaí seized the drugs following searches at two properties. At an initial search of a property in Ballaghaderreen, cannabis plants with an estimated value of €44,800 were seized. A man, aged in his

40s, was arrested in connection with this seizure. He has since been released and a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

During a follow-up search at another location nearby, Gardaí seized cannabis plants with a value of €46,400.

Investigations are ongoing and the drugs have been sent for further analysis.

Williamstown shop sells

€50k Euromillions ticket!

It has been revealed that Smyth’s Gala in Wil liamstown sold one of ten €50,000 winning ’12 Draws of Christmas’ tick ets for Tuesday night’s Eu romillions Draw.

The ticket was one of ten winners nationwide as part of Euromillions ‘Ireland Only Raffle’ ahead of the festive season.

Ukrainian guests to switch on lights in Ballyleague

The official switching-on of the Christ mas lights in Ballyleague will take place on this Saturday evening (10th of December).

The event will take place at Ballyleague

Church at approximately 7.25 pm (just af ter 7 o’clock Mass). This year, members of the local Ukrainian community have been invited to perform the formalities and switch on the lights. All are welcome.

Draft Trail Plan for the Beara Breifne Way long-distance walking trail

In accordance with Article 13(1)(b) of the European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) Regulations 2004, as amended. Notice is hereby given that Fáilte Ireland has prepared:

• A Draft Trail Plan for the Beara Breifne Way;

• Associated Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Environmental Reports in accordance with Directive 2001/42/EC of the European Parliament and Council of 27 June 2001 on the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment as transposed into Irish law by the European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) Regulations 2004, as amended; and

• Associated Appropriate Assessment (AA) Natura Impact Statements, pursuant to Article 6 of Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora as transposed into Irish law by the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, as amended.

Copies of the above documents are available for public inspection from Thursday 8th December 2022 to Thursday 12th January 2023. • www.failteireland.ie/Activities/Product Development/Walking

Crescent House, Lower Hartstonge Street, Limerick, V94 K35Y

Submissions or observations can also be made within the timeframe referred to above by email to BBW@failteireland.ie and clearly titled as relevant;

Draft Trail Plan for the Beara Breifne Way long-distance walking trail;

Eva and Luke Sutherland pictured with their dad, St Ronan’s player Ronan Kelly, and mother Una Sutherland, at the AIB Connacht JFC Club Final between St Ronan’s and Clifden in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Major boost for local tourism projects

The recent announcement of funding for three major tourism led projects in county Roscommon has been broadly welcomed. Nationally, funding of €14m will support 59 tourism led projects, of which €845,100 has been shared between three projects.

The funding, which was announced as part of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) represents a major vote of confidence in the develop ment of the local tourism sector in counties such as Roscommon.

Roscommon County Council say they are de lighted with the funding announcement for three projects in the county: “We (the local authority) are delighted to see positive news in respect of the Out door Recreation Infrastructure Scheme for outdoor recreation projects in county Roscommon.

“County Roscommon achieved one of the high est awards so well done to all our communities working with the Regeneration Unit of Roscommon County Council to come up with great projects that can shared by local communities and visitors to the county alike.”

The funding announcement, supported by 10% matched funding from Roscommon County Coun cil, will help to develop adventure tourism projects countrywide, with a focus on hiking, cycling, wild swimming, kayaking and other related activities. An other notable feature is the expansion of the National Walks Scheme which has been increased to 150 trails.

The biggest funding beneficiary was the Cru achan/Rathcroghan looped trails complex which received an allocation of €445,500 to develop the

Beidh Daidí na Nollag ag teacht!

Ocáid speisialta i Leabhalann Ros Comáin an Satharn seo chugainn. Beidh Daidí na Nollag linn!

I gcomhceangal le Gaelscoil de hÍde beidh seans breá do dhaoine óga agus a dtuismitheoirí buaileadh le Santy agus a litreacha a scríobh dhó. Beidh ceird, ceol, comhrá agus craic againn. Fáilte roimh chách.

Bígí linn, Dé Sathairn, 10 Deireadh Fómhair, 10rn go 12.30in. Tuileadh eolais 090-6637277 agus library@ roscommoncoco.ie

Christmas Festival returns to Roscommon town

Rathcroghan Archaeological Looped Trails from the ancient Celtic Royal site, located between Bal linagare and Tulsk. Matched funding for this pro ject is coming from Roscommon County Council, Tulsk Action Group and the Rathcroghan Farming Programme EIP

Funding of €199,800 has been allocated to Mote Park outside Roscommon town for an Outdoor Rec reation Sensory Sculpture and Natural Trail Experi ence. A similar allocation was also given to the areas of Lough Key, the neighbouring Doon Shore and the Boyle Canal and River.

Here, funding was allocated for the installation of accessible easy launch systems for kayaks and ca noes at each of the aforementioned locations in the greater Boyle area, further enhancing major tourism amenities.

The funding represents Ireland’s first ever Na tional Outdoor Recreation Strategy with over 2.7 million visitors taking part in various outdoor activi ties. Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors was developed in partnership with Comhairle na Tuaithe and is a col laborative cross-government strategy that reflects the views of stakeholders and the public.

The new strategy will strength and support Ro scommon County Council’s sustainable develop ment of its outdoor recreation sector, brining huge economic and health benefits to communities across the country.

Launching Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, Min ister Humphreys said: “The pandemic awakened a new discovery to explore amongst the Irish public. When we were confined to our counties, we gained a

new found appreciation for the unique amenities we have on our doorstep whether it’s our forest parks, our mountain trails, our rivers, our greenways or our stunning beaches.

“Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors is about build ing on this momentum. It is about the strategic de velopment of Ireland’s Outdoor Recreation sector so we can deliver maximum benefits to communities across the country.

There also huge economic benefits, particularly for rural communities, with over 2.7 million overseas visitors taking part in outdoor activities every year in Ireland”, the Minister concluded at the recent launch.

Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors focuses on bring ing a more joined-up and cohesive approach to the development of outdoor recreation infrastructure at both a national and county level. As part of the strat egy, a new Outdoor Recreation Committee will be established in Roscommon and other counties to en sure there is a focused and strategic approach to the development of local amenities.

Overall, the strategy will deliver major economic and health benefits to communities and visitors to Roscommon, in turn generating economic spin-off’s for local areas. Projects straddling county Roscom mon has also benefitted from funding.

One such project is the Creggs Mountain Walk where funding of €200,000 has been earmarked to develop a Creggs Mountain Walk, part of the BearaBreifne Way and Suck Valley Way. Funding of €200,000 has also be earmarked for the upgrading of the Red Earls Road section of the Miners Way His torical Trail near Arigna.

ROAD WORKS SPEED LIMIT ORDER

Tributes paid to late Johnny Haughey

Many tributes have been paid to the late Johnny Haughey who died last week, aged 93 years. The deceased was a former Fine Gael member of Roscommon County Council, having been elected to the local authority in 1967. The deceased was elected to the then eight seat Roscommon electoral area, where he secured 958 first preference votes, recording a 10.2% share of the vote and was elected on the tenth count. He went on to serve on the Council for one term. The late Mr Haughey was synonymous with the game of hurling in Roscommon was the county’s Hurling Board Secretary for 52 years and was also a former president of Roscommon GAA, representing the county on the GAA’s Central Council for over 20 years. Paying tribute to the deceased, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. Tom Crosby described the deceased as “a towering figure in the community of Athleague, who was a highly distinguished and well respected gentleman.

“Johnny was a highly influential figure in the hurling world in Roscommon and maintained a high profile for the sport throughout his tenure as Secretary and and later President of the county’s Hurling Board. Johnny was elected to Roscommon County Council in the 1960’s and was regarded for his genial nature and practical outlook on issues. On behalf of the members and staff of Roscommon County Council, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family of the late Johnny Haughey”, the Cathaoirleach remarked.

A former resident of Clooneen, Athleague, the late Johnny Haughey, passed away at the residence of his brother Charlie in Tubbercurry, aged 93 years. Predeceased by his sister Mary Freeley (Ballyhaunis) and his brother Paddy (Clooneen), the deceased is survived by his aforementioned brother Charlie (Tubbercurry), nieces and nephews, his many good friends and neighbours.

This year’s Roscommon Christmas Festival returns to the county town on Saturday December 10th and Sunday, December 11th. A feature of this year’s festival will be a performance by Gliondar, otherwise known as the Athenry Community Arts Group who will perform on Saturday December 10th accompanied by McDermott Ballet School from 5pm. The theme of their performance is the fairytales of Hans Christian Anderson.

Once again, this year’s Festival is supported by Roscommon Town Team, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, Roscommon LEADER Partnership and Roscommon County Council in what is an innovative and unique collaboration.

Not surprisingly, Santa and his lit up sleigh will do a drive through the Town Square on both days at 4.30pm while a rich array of festive character will mingle with the crowd on the Sunday for photo opportunities and all round fun.

With free parking throughout the town and a wide array of stalls and local shops offering a rich array of gift ideas, Roscommon Christmas Markets is fast becoming one of the foremost social, cultural and festive events of its kind in the region.

For further details on this year’s Festival visit https:// www.facebook.com/RoscommonChristmasFestival for all details and updates.

ROAD WORKS SPEED LIMIT ORDER

Road Traffic Act 2004, Section 10

Road Traffic Act 2004, Section 10

Notice is hereby given, in accordance with Section 10 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 that Roscommon County Council has made a Road Works Speed Limit Order to apply a Speed Limit of 60 km/h at the location set out in the schedule below

Notice is hereby given, in accordance with Section 10 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 that Roscommon County Council has made a Road Works Speed Limit Order to apply a Speed Limit of 60 km/h at the location set out in the schedule below.

Schedule

Townland

N61 Bogganfin, Barrybeg and Barrymore, Roscommon

Start of Speed Limit

The N61 (Athlone Road) from a point 3.27km north west of the N61 at Ganlys roundabout

Easting 602296.12 Northing 742433.33

End of Speed Limit

The N61 (Athlone Road) from a point 0.20km north west of the N61 at Ganlys roundabout

Easting 600497.54 Northing 744891.6

The deceased reposed at Hamrock’s Funeral Home, Athleague before being removed to St Patrick’s Church, Athleague where following Funeral Mass, burial took place afterwards in Athleague Cemetery.

Freedom of Roscommon for O’Rourke sisters

The Road Works Speed Limit Order is to facilitate road improvement works and applies from 10th December 2022 to 31st January 2023

The Chief Executive shall have regard to any representations that are made to him in relation to this Road Works Speed Limit Order.

The Road Works Speed Limit Order is to facilitate road improvement works and applies from 10th December 2022 to 31st January 2023. The Chief Executive shall have regard to any representations that are made to him in relation to this Road Works Speed Limit Order.

A/Director of Services Roads and Transportation

Roscommon County Council Áras

A/Director of Services Roads and Transportation

Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae

Roscommon F42 VR98

OPENING HOURS IN ÁRAS AN CHONTAE:

are open 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday.

A special night will be held in Aras an Chontae, Roscommon town later this evening (Thursday December 8th) when boxing sisters Aoife and Lisa O’Rourke will be bestowed the Freedom of Roscommon at a special ceremony, beginning at 5.30pm. The O’Rourke sisters are among a unique group of people being bestowed with the honour of becoming Roscommon’s first citizens, following in the footsteps of the founder of Strokestown Famine Museum, Jim Callery, musician Brendan Shine, the late artist Brian O’Dohery, former President Mary McAleese and her husband, former Senator, Martin McAleese and former Roscommon footballing great, Dermot Earley and acclaimed actor and Boyle native, Chris O’Dowd.

Aoife recently won her second European title at the EUBC Women’s European Championships in Montenegro in October following in the footsteps of her sister Lisa, who won the IABA Women’s World Championships in Turkey, back in May.

Kerrane launches proposals to ‘transform Social Protection’

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection, Claire Kerrane TD, has this week launched proposed reforms to the State’s social wel fare system. Sinn Féin are calling for three key reforms to the social welfare system to ensure that it is fairer for all:

- Establish a Social Welfare Ad equacy Commission to monitor and advise on social welfare rates

annually; this would take the poli tics out of the issue and ensure that rates are evidence-based and fair.

- Transition social insurance pay ments from a flat rate to a per centage of previous earnings; this would ensure that workers who have paid into the system are treat ed fairly and protected from a sud den push towards poverty.

- Benchmark rates for social as

Dementia Café moving to Ballaghaderreen

The County Roscommon Dementia Café takes place on Wednesday, 14th of December at the Family Resource Centre (beside the Garda Sta tion) in Ballaghaderreen.

This monthly event is organised for the benefit of families living with dementia and includes an entertaining afternoon of music, song, friendly advice and chat for family members, their carers and all those with an interest in helping out. The café is organised by the County Roscom mon Dementia Alliance group and Roscom mon LEADER Partnership SICAP team and seats must be booked in advance of the event by emailing ciaranmullooly@ridc.ie or phoning (086) 0836720. The cafe can also be watched on line via zoom so please get in touch and a zoom invitation can be sent to your email address. If you live in the Ballaghaderreen area please call into the Family Resource Centre and speak to Kara if you would like to attend on the day.

sistance payments to a Minimum Essential Standard of Living (MESL); to ensure people are not at risk of poverty.

Deputy Kerrane said: “The pro posed reforms are aimed at trans forming our Social Protection sys tem to make it fairer for everyone. This is about ensuring that the system is fair and that people are protected from poverty.

“It is clear that social welfare sup ports, both means-tested payments and those linked to PRSI, are cur rently inadequate with all capped at a rate which is well below the poverty line.

“Sinn Féin are leading the call for an effective social welfare system that supports workers, families and households across the State”.

We have now begun closing accounts

Ulster Bank is closing, and our team has begun to close current and deposit accounts. If your six month closure notice period has passed and your deadline has been reached, your account is now queued for closure. You must take action now. If you are still relying on your personal or business bank account and in need of support, please contact us immediately. Need extra support? Call our Vulnerable Customer Line on 1800 656 001

Bank Ireland DAC is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Ella and Tighe pictured with their dad, St Ronan’s player David McTiernan, at the AIB Connacht JFC Club Final between St Ronan’s and Clifden in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

News G D The page

County Winners in national art competition

Scoil Na nAingeal Naofa, Boyle and Ballyfeeney National School, Scramogue are celebrating this week after being named Junior and Senior County Winners re spectively of the prestigious na tional art competition, ‘Someone Like Me’.

The two local schools will now join 48 other schools to compete for the much sought-after na tional title at the national awards ceremony to be held at Dublin City Hall on Wednesday, January 18th, 2023.

Ireland joins the rest of the world in marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Now in its seventh year, the ‘Someone Like Me’ art compe tition, which is organised by the National Disability Authority, at tracted more than 2,700 entries from national schools across the length and breadth of the country.

and respect similarities and dif ferences in people.

Congratulations Rachael!

Pictured is Rachael Maloney from Creggs, who graduated from the University of Galway recently with a Masters in Health Promotion (1st class honours). Rachael also received a Certificate of Recognition from the Association of Health Promotion in Ireland on the basis of her dissertation which was entitled ‘The Stigma Surrounding Male Eating Disorders – A Scoping Review’.

Still flying the flag! Eoin and Conor Quigley pictured cheering on St. Ronan’s at the AIB Connacht JFC Club Final in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday. It wasn’t to be for the north Roscommon club but they can be very proud of their club championship adventure this year. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Fittingly, the announcement was made this week by Minister of State with Special Responsibility for Disability Anne Rabbitte as

The competition was created as part of the National Disability Authority’s work to nurture more positive attitudes towards persons with disabilities and to date, it has seen more than 12,500 children take part in lesson plans and pupil activities designed to challenge our young people to appreciate

The three-person judging panel comprising of Caomhán Mac Con Ionmaire from the National Gallery of Ireland, Principal Ann Higgins from the Hospital School CHI at Temple Street, and Niamh Fawl from the National Dis ability Authority, was particularly impressed with the entries from Scoil Na nAingeal Naofa and Ballyfeeney National School, se lecting them as County Winners based on their insightful and in spirational responses to the theme of ‘Someone Like Me’.

Congratulating Scoil Na nAin geal Naofa and Ballyfeeney Na

tional School on being named County Winners, Minister Rab bitte said that the number of en tries this year is a tribute to the commitment not just of the Na tional Disability Authority, but also to Ireland’s primary school teachers, who continue to play an important part helping to create a more inclusive Ireland.

The competition, which offers a range of prizes up to the value of €1,250, was open to all primary school pupils from junior infants to sixth class and more than 2,700 entries were received from indi vidual pupils, class groups and whole schools right across Ire land.

RUH’s healthy menus take top honours at HSE and Irish Heart Foundation awards

The catering team at Roscommon University Hospital is celebrating this week after its commitment to creating healthy menus for staff and visitors was recognised with top honours at a national ceremony.

The Roscommon town facility achieved Gold status at the Happy Heart Healthy Eating Awards for the nutritious choices on offer at its catering units.

Studies show that a healthy and balanced diet and an active lifestyle help reduce the risk of chronic con ditions such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and some cancers.

Opening the ceremony, which was held at the Ashling Hotel, Dublin, on Wednesday, November 30th, Irish Heart Foundation CEO, Tim Collins, congratulated the award winners.

“The Happy Heart Healthy Eat ing Awards were launched by the

Foundation almost 30 years ago to encourage healthcare catering fa cilities to adopt healthier cooking practices and provide strategies to promote healthy choices,” he said.

“The awards are a significant part of the drive to improve cardiovas cular health across our healthcare service”.

With the number of people eating at work on the rise, the healthy offer ings on the menu in HSE hospitals, workplaces, nursing homes, and community and disability services have increased. This has helped to reduce the fat, sugar, and salt con tent on offer as well as increase the vegetable, salad, and fruit offerings.

The criteria for the awards also include offering high-fibre choices, monitoring portion sizes, counter display and vending machine con tent.

Sarah O’Brien, National Lead for

the HSE Healthy Eating Active Liv ing programme, said: “Our staff in the HSE are our most valuable re source – supporting their health and wellbeing in the workplace is a key priority for Healthy Ireland in the Health Services.

“Creating a healthier food environ ment and providing healthier op tions at mealtimes supports our staff to make the healthy choice the easy choice. The awards recognise the hard work and dedication to quality improvement and health promotion of catering staff across healthcare”.

In total, 30 HSE catering units from across the country were hon oured at the awards for displaying a commitment to providing healthy meals. Eighteen units, including Roscommon University Hospital, were gold winners, eight achieved silver status, and four picked up bronze medals.

Pictured are Irish Heart Foundation CEO Tim Collins, with Patricia Rogers, Catering Manager; and Winifred Walsh, Chef, Roscommon University Hospital, Roscommon town; and Prof Donal O’Shea, HSE Clinical Lead for Obesity at the Happy Heart Healthy Eating Awards.

The winning Roscommon junior ‘Someone Like Me’ art competition entry by Scoil Na nAingeal Naofa.

The Roscommon Senior winning entry in the ‘Someone Like Me’ national art competition by Ballyfeeney National School.

Irish Water addressing leakages throughout county

Irish Water is rounding off a busy year in County Roscommon with several projects ticked off the ‘to do’ list the company said in a statement this week.

Last month works to im prove water quality were completed in Elphin. This month the people of Lis namult and the commu nity between Cremully and Aghagad have a more dependable water supply, and in early 2023 works to reduce bursts in Bal laghaderreen will be com plete. All four projects are part of Irish Water’s cam paign to drive down leak age in the county.

Looking back on what he called a “productive year”, Declan Cawley, Irish Wa ter’s Networks Regional Lead, says he’s proud of the progress made in pro viding customers with a more reliable water supply.

“All of these works are part of a significant in vestment by Irish Water to upgrade the water net work in County Roscom mon. As we close out the year it’s great to complete these projects and we must thank the communities for

their patience and coopera tion”.

The completion of pipe replacement works in Lisnamult and between Cremully and Aghagad in recent weeks will mean fewer outages and bursts for both communities. The 1.5km of new pipes be

tween Cremully and Agh agad will reduce the risk of supply disruptions and Lisnamult’s half a kilo metre of new water main, which replaced long ser vice connections, is also welcome news as it will rid the area of water pres sure problems.

Vincent Walsh, Water Services Infrastructure Projects and Capital Pro grammes with Roscom mon County Council, emphasised the benefits the works will bring to the entire county.

“Fewer bursts and less leakage mean a stronger

supply for homes and businesses. Completing these mains replacement projects is good news for everyone. We look for ward to working with our colleagues in Irish Water to continue with improve ments right across the county”.

Tractor & Truck Run and Family Fun Day in Athleague

Athleague Tractor & Truck Run will take place on Sun day, 11th of December. Registration will take place from 3 pm-4 pm at Kepak/GAA grounds.

Entry fee is €20. Prizes for best turned out tractor, and also for Best dressed male and female Christmas-themed driver.

A Christmas Family Day will take place from 2 pm-6 pm at the community centre. Santa will be present and available to meet and greet!

Other attractions at the Christmas Family Day include a photobooth, local craft and gift stalls, carol singing, and a bumper raffle. Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and treats will be available as refreshments. All are welcome. (Keep up to date on ‘We Are Athleague’ Facebook page).

RSPCA Church Gate collection

The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is holding its annual church gate collection on Sunday, 11th of December in Ballyforan Church. Your support is greatly appreciated.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Return of live entertainment in pubs is music to my ears

Our man Frank on savouring the return of live entertainment in pubs; some weather musings from his kitchen table; putting the Christmas tree up (early); movies on Netflix… and our columnist’s imminent bingo comeback!

As we look forward to yet another Christ mas, one of the joys that I hope will fully return – after two very different Covid-im pacted Christmases – is live entertainment in the pubs.

It would be nice to see some of the local bands and musicians returning to the stage after a couple of very difficult years for all

concerned. We all hear about the Nathan Carters and Mike Denvers of the Irish country music scene, and they are indeed the closest things to superstars that we have here, but for every one of those major fig ures there are many more ploughing away earning a decent living, providing great entertainment, but never quite making it to the highest level.

One of those top quality consistent performers is Strokestown’s own Frank Nelson, who for more than 30 years has been playing all over Ireland, England and even America, and who told me the other day that he is busier now than ever.

Frank is touring England on a regular basis, and this weekend is on a three-night tour of the south-east, after which he is back to Ireland for a couple of gigs before returning to England next week for more appearances. As well as being an excellent performer

Why my big bingo comeback is imminent

On Thursday last I filled in for the day in Lynn Antiques in Athlone (as they prepare to close down) where one of my customers told me about all the nights, and occasional days, that she spends playing bingo. As I listened to her, I realised how popular the game still is. She told me of a bingo game in Athlone where the players play from their cars, and blow the horn when they have a winning line. On Sunday last she was thrilled to win a very welcome €100. As this woman spoke, it reminded me of the last time I played bingo, which was at

least 40 years ago when Carol and myself were on holidays in Ballybunion. On one particularly wet day, the only choice was bingo or the pub, and we chose the bingo. I don’t remember whether we won anything or not, but the truth is that we actually en joyed it.

Anyway, I came home on Thursday even ing and I suppose I would never have given bingo another thought if I didn’t receive a WhatsApp message from our friend and neighbour, Olivia Harris, telling me about a big Bingo night this Friday, 9th of Decem

and singer, Frank is a noted songwriter who has written any amount of well-known and hugely popular original songs. Presently he has a new CD on the go – ‘I’ll put the kettle on’ – which features 14 superb songs, including the title track. Frank tells me the CD is doing very well and the title track is going down a storm with his dancing punters. I’m sure Frank and his band will be performing locally over the festive period, so if you can, go along and see him, tell him I sent you – and just maybe he’ll put the kettle on!

Talking of entertainment and entertainers, on Saturday night last myself and Carol found ourselves in Terry & Mary Leyden’s Dáil Bar, and were royally entertained by a very youthful guitarist and singer, Kenneth McCormack. He put on a lovely, varied programme, doing a lot of the old country classics, some Joe Dolan, and some more

modern stuff (which of course I knew straight away). I have to say we thoroughly enjoyed Kenneth’s set. He also encouraged participation from the audience – and so we had something that we hadn’t seen for a long time – an old-fashioned singsong, which was just great to see. There were several singers from the floor, each one bet ter than the next. The standard was so high that, despite a couple of requests, I felt it wiser to keep silent.

As we reluctantly left Terry’s behind us, it was great to have heard good music, good singing and, most importantly, have had good craic. Sadly we were gone before Indian Mick did his Joe Dolan medley (I’m sure he did it). I didn’t get to talk to young Kenneth on this occasion, but if you hear or see of him performing anywhere near you, head along and you will see a future star in action.

Weather musings

ber in the School Hall in Creggs (at 8 pm). It’s all in aid of Creggs National School, one of the best schools in the country, and Olivia tells me there will be a big raffle with great prizes. A single book is €10, a double book is €15, and flyers are €2.

As I said, Creggs National School is a re ally top class facility, so come along, have a great night, support the school and enjoy a very popular pastime! It may have taken me 40 years, but on Friday night I will be back at bingo again. I hope I win something this time.

In praise of Netflix & getting cosy!

I have to admit that my knowledge of anything techni cal is very limited, and people talking about Facebook and Twitter and Snapchat or Instagram is way over my head. Until recently, I thought Netflix belonged in the same ‘No go’ area.

However, in the last while I have learnt how to turn Netflix on and am sort of able to suss out the various types of programmes that are being shown on the very popular network. I have to say that there is some selec tion of Christmas movies on at the moment.

Now they are all unashamedly feel-good films with guaranteed happy endings, but in these times of war,

rising prices, and a controversial soccer World Cup, isn’t it good to have something to lighten the mood and make us forget, at least for a time, all the bad things that are happening around us?

And so I am not ashamed to say that we have watched a number of these movies over the last week or so. All I can say is ... if you have Netflix, settle down some night, light the fire (if you can afford to), get warm and cosy, maybe have a glass of wine, watch one of the many offerings that Netflix provides, and get yourself into the Christmas spirit. I just know the next time we meet you’ll thank me for the recommendation.

Sitting at our kitchen table as I write this on Monday morning, you would be forgiven for thinking that it was a summer’s day. Look ing out the window, all I can see are blue skies and bright sunshine. Considering there is less than three weeks to Christmas, you would have to wonder if nature really has done an about-turn.

Now I am no great author ity on plants or flowers or any gardening stuff, but out in our garden there are, remarkably, still loads of flowers in full bloom. We have yellow, red and pink roses, primroses that should be long gone, and, for the time of year, there is still an unusual array of colours to be seen.

Now of course I am not complaining – as we all love to see the vibrancy that flow ers can bring to a garden – but as everyone is talking about climate change, surely the evidence is right before our eyes in every garden round the country.

The weather people are telling us that we are about to have real winter weather for the next few days, and in truth it might be no harm, as the cold might kill off a

load of the bugs that have so many of our population suf fering from colds and flus. And so long as the road con ditions don’t get too bad, and it doesn’t cause too much disruption to our motorists, and provided it doesn’t kill off our remaining roses, I think I would actually wel come a bit of Christmassy weather.

And finally…

I have to admit that I am a traditionalist when it comes to Christmas, and have always believed that the tree should go up on the 8th of December. However, today, Monday the 5th, our tree is being put in position. After resisting for very many years, I have given in. Therefore if you passed by tonight (Monday) – or since – hopefully Carol has it fully done (she re fuses any help) and you will see our Christmas tree fully lit, even if it is three days early!

Miriam’s MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

There’s something about Mary – which is why I agree with her!

In 1997, she was inaugurated as the eighth Presi dent of Ireland. In 2004, she was re-elected as the only validly-nominated candidate; therefore when Mary McAleese has something to say, I believe we should listen. As former President McAleese once invited me to have tea with her at Áras an Uachtaráin (when I was working at RTÉ), resulting in what was a highly enjoyable afternoon of conversation and discussion, I am of course biased, believing her to be a lovely lady. You could say…There’s something about Mary!

It was reported that the Pope, (the spiritual lead er of the world’s 1.2 billion catholics), claimed women cannot enter ordained ministry because the church’s “Petrine Principle has no place for that”. County Roscommon resident Mrs McAleese allegedly described his comment as “misogynistic drivel”. Good woman yourself Mary!

Apparently, (and patronisingly in my opinion) according to His Holiness, “there is another prin ciple that is still more important, about which we do not speak, that is the Marian Principle, which

is the principle of femininity in the church, of the woman in the church”.

Ah bless, kind of like we, the little women, get the consolation prize. You know, the one you were handed in school for ‘taking part’ but not for actually being good enough to make the grade or win.

I was raised catholic and educated in schools run by the Dominican Sisters, who tried in vain to teach me to become a member of their reli gious order. (Yep, they were constantly recruit ing)!

It became clear I was definitely not ‘nun ma terial’ when Mother Superior, Sister Gemma (RIP), caught me – in her words – “uttering a string of obscene profanities”. Practically foam ing at the mouth and waving her bata mór, (big stick), this elderly nun became highly enraged when my answer to her favourite citation of “Je sus died for our sins; you ungrateful wretch”, was my retort, “I’m only sinning so he doesn’t feel he died for no reason”.

Like any teenager back then, my main religion was to worship the God of make-up, Revlon, the

What point is convicted killer Graham Dwyer contending in his appeal?

Those following the news will re member how Graham Dwyer was convicted of the 2012 murder of Elaine O’Hara for his ‘sexual gratifi cation’.

You’ll also be aware he’s appealing that conviction, arguing that the reten tion of mobile phone data is ‘an op portunistic form of mass surveillance’ – and other nonsense about phones being ‘tracking devices’ which can re veal a ‘detailed picture of every aspect

of a person’s life’. Eh, doh!

I wholeheartedly agree that you can not indiscriminately use a person’s data willy-nilly. I also know that by using forensic software, Gardaí can see texts, calls, images and video foot age, etc., which can serve as evidence to vindicate the innocent and convict the guilty. I’m of the opinion that if an individual has nothing to hide, then the use of digital technology in prov ing their innocence is not just useful, it’s vital.

When Dwyer was sentenced in 2015, we all thought that was the end of this horrific matter, that justice had been done. I can only imagine the heart ache now being visited upon innocent victim Ms O’Hara’s family and on Dwyer’s own family – specifically his children (also innocent victims).

A submission is being put forward that the trial judge had allegedly ‘looked in a very disapproving man ner at the defendant’, something which I’d describe as being a ‘clutch ing at straws’ move.

A lot of excellent detective work, sci entific evidence and DNA gathering was involved in this case. However, given the incident is again making headlines, the question on my mind is this: What exact point is Dwyer con tending? Is he saying that he didn’t murder Elaine O’Hara… or is he say ing his data should not have been re tained and used to convict him?

God of hair dye, Clairol, and the supreme being who invented disco dancing, the ultimate God dess herself, Donna Summer!

Following that embarrassing little incident, Mother Superior decided if I wasn’t suitable to take ‘holy orders’, my soul may still be saved by taking orders from my husband. By doing this, she assured me, I could still be “submissive to the Lord”. She really didn’t know me at all!

I did marry at the ludicrously young age of 17, but it was never, nor will it ever, be in my na ture to submit to anyone! Especially not to the church whose tradition it seems is – given the Pope’s discriminatory statement – to overpower women and bring us to heel, as it were.

When it comes to religion, I’ve always relied on my own conscience. Rather than attending Mass on Sundays and so-called ‘holy days of obligation’, I believe I don’t have to drop to my knees in a building filled with statues to pray. I know that I can pray anytime and anywhere.

In addition, I’ve always struggled to understand and come to terms with the church’s doctrine of the male-only priesthood. I don’t wish to offend

any readers who’re devout catholics, nor do I wish to offend or be disrespectful to priests, but I believe that type of ideology is not just idiotic; it’s archaic.

I not only agree with Mary McAleese’s “mi sogynistic drivel” comment, I also believe that the decline of the Catholic Church is entirely down to the fact it’s still being run by closedminded senior men who should consider retir ing from their professions and allow women – if they feel they have ‘a calling’ – to become ordained.

Rather than following the Petrine Principle of giving primacy and pre-eminence to males, relegating females to follow what the Pope says is “another principle”, (the Marian Principle), where a woman ‘offers herself’ as ‘a complete gift’ to men, the Church could perhaps instead trust us with the keys to the Kingdom?

Methinks it’s about time His Holiness realised the hour has come where women who have ‘a calling’ will no longer be content with being rel egated to the role of Bible readers, communion distributors or flower arrangers at Mass!

Kissing babies could prove hazardous to their health…so stop it!

The restrictions and lockdowns dur ing the pandemic which saw ev eryone, including babies, wobblers and toddlers not socialising, has re sulted in a large pool of us becom ing susceptible to catching a variety of coughs and sneezes, which can spread viruses and diseases.

One such virus doing the rounds is the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which, although common, can prove

to be extremely serious for infants and young kiddies, with cases report edly becoming prevalent over the past fortnight.

With the usual ‘winter surge’ expect ed at A&Es, and with cases of RSV being discussed daily on news bulle tins, it’s no wonder parents are very concerned. In fact many are now asking people to refrain from kissing their babies and toddlers.

When it comes to my 15-month-old baby granddaughter, I can assure you this Nana won’t be asking or issuing genteel requests to would-be kissers and huggers!

Instead, I’ll be standing in front of our toddler, and, in a voice that’ll brook no argument whatsoever, Nana will make clear the consequences to anyone who breaches the rules and places our baby girl at risk!

Convicted killer Graham Dwyer

Fundraising help sought to restore Sacred Heart Church

< PAUL HEALY

A detailed survey of the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon is currently underway. This is in response to maintenance issues that have arisen at the beautiful building.

The church was con secrated on June 18th, 1903 and will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2023. Sadly, over recent years, it has shown signs of moisture ingress, and other maintenance is sues are also pressing.

In response to this, the parish has engaged Brandon-O’Brien Consulting Engineers to undertake a detailed sur vey of the church. They have identified and costed works deemed essential in terms of safety and preventing further damage to the

A fundraising drive is now underway, as Ger aldine Grealy, PRO of

the Church Fundraising Committee, explained to the Roscommon People Geraldine said: “We are hoping that the people of Roscommon will support the essen tial fundraising efforts for their local church, by giving whatever amount they can afford to donate financially. We appreciate fully that households are already under pressure financial ly with the rising costs of day to day living and the impending expense of the Christmas sea son”.

A comprehensive pho tographic story board and donation box is now on display in the church porch. It is hoped that the picture storyboard will resonate with massgoes and parishioners who will see the extent of the roof damage for themselves.

The key necessary refurbishment works at

this time include: Reme dial works to slating and lead valleys; Replace ment of bell supports (due to rust); Remedial works to the pinnacles of the church, and reme dial works to the boiler house chimney.

The cost of the required works is estimated to be in the region of €100,000. Donation envelopes are now avail able in the church porch.

Geraldine Grealy concluded: “We have no doubt that parishioners

will have many wonder ful shared memories of the church and of the many joyful family oc casions that generations of Roscommon people have celebrated here down through the years.

“We want to safeguard and maintain our local church for generations to come and ensure it does not go into a bad state of disrepair, therefore we are calling on the gener osity and goodwill of the local community to help out in any way they can”.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE Sacred Heart Church Roscommon Restoration Fund

Sadly our beautiful local church is in urgent need of necessary repair. Your donations and support are very much appreciated.

Donation Envelopes are available from church porch or you can donate via bank transfer.

Thank you Sacred Heart Church Restoration Committee

Pictured above is some of the damage caused by the dampness issue.

Photograph of Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon taken from ‘Sacred Heart Church Roscommon 19032003’ by Michael Burke, John Corrigan, Olive Morris and Mary O’Carroll, 2003 and on left how it is today.

Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm opens €90,000+ Community Benefit Fund for Applications

November 2022: Sliabh Bawn Power DAC is pleased to announce the opening of the 2022 Commu nity Benefit Fund (The Fund) for communities located near the Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm. The Community Benefit Fund is available to commu nity and voluntary groups, nonprofit groups, or organisations with a charitable status. The Fund will provide support to the cumulative value of €2 million for the opera tional lifetime of the wind farm. The Fund is administered by SECAD Partnership CLG (“SECAD”) which is an independent grantmaking organisation. Making the announcement on behalf of Sliabh Bawn DAC today, the Stakeholder and Advocacy Manager Karina Dennigan outlined: “The Fund, which is valued at over €90,000 this year is open until the 30th January 2023 for applications and we encourage all interested organisations that meet the Fund criterion to submit an application in order for their project to be consid ered for funding. The primary aim of the Fund is to support communi ty-based projects and initiatives that benefit the area surrounding Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm. The annual fund continues to provide financial sup port to local groups, helping them to deliver beneficial projects and

initiatives which fall within one or more of our broad themes of: Recreation, Social Sustainability, Culture and Heritage, Environmen tal Sustainability and Tourism”

Elaine Barrett, Community Benefit Fund Coordinator on behalf of SECAD Partnership, stated: “SECAD Partnership as fund administrator, are looking forward to supporting the communities near Sliabh Bawn, for any assistance they may need with their projects and applications. We look forward to seeing the continued benefit of the Sliabh Bawn Community Ben efit Fund to the local communities, ensuring the funding has a positive and lasting impact.”

Approximately half of this year’s Fund value has already been com mitted to projects in the community through multi annual awards made through previous funding rounds. These projects include: Ballyboro Kilgefin-Tarmonbarry-Rathcline Soccer Club, Lough Ree Angling Hub, Strokestown Commu nity Playschool Ltd, Scramogue Graveyard Restoration Group, Strokestown Golf Club, Lough Ree Access for All CLG, Board of Management Ballyfeeney National School and Ballagh Parish Commu nity Hub.

Among the groups supported by the

overall Fund in the past are local Schools, Sports Clubs, Develop ment Associations, First Responder Schemes, Community Facilities, Scout Groups, local Athletic Clubs and Community Support Services and Outreach Programmes. A full list of previous recipients of the Fund can be viewed on the Sliabh Bawn website: https://www.sliabh bawnwindfarm.ie/community-ben efit/. Applications will be reviewed, assessed, and scored by both Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm DAC and a local committee consisting of representa tives from the communities adjacent to the wind farm.

For further information on the Community Benefit Fund (includ ing Fund Guidelines) and how to apply for funding, please visit: https://www.communitybenefit funds.ie/sliabhbawn

The 2022 Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund (the “Fund”) opened for applications on Monday 21st November 2022.

The Fund is open to community and voluntary groups, not for profit groups and organisations with charitable status. The Fund will prioritise projects and initiatives that will benefit the area surrounding Sliabh Bawn, subject to them meeting the Fund criterion.

The Fund Guidelines and Application Form are available on: https://www.communitybenefitfunds.ie/sliabhbawn The closing date for applications is Monday 30th January 2023. Should you have any queries please contact SECAD

Pictured are members of Ballyleague Men’s Shed, who were among the recipients of the Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund with a contribution towards cost of tools for the Men’s Shed Repair Cafe.

Pictured on right is Laura Mullooly, Vita House Fmaily Centre, Roscommon, who were among the recipients of the Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund with a contribution towards Associated Works at Vita House Family Centre Garden.

Pictured are members of Ballagh Parish Community Hub, who were among the recipients of the Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund for the refurbishment and repurpose of the Parochial House in Ballagh for a Community Centre.

Pictured are members of Strokestown Women’s Shed, who were among the recipients of the Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund with funding towards the cost of raised timber beds

ROSCOMMON COMMUNITY CHALLENGE 2023 LAUNCHED

Previously known as The Ronan McCormack Challenge, this has always been a well-supported event, having raised over €200,000 since its inauguration in 2013. This is due to the generosity of the participants, sponsors, and volunteers down through the years. Many charities have benefited from the event in the past such as Pieta House, Mayo/Roscommon Hospice and the Jack and Jill Foundation. This year, the proceeds will go to the Roscommon Special Olympics club and the Roscommon Community Sports Park.

The Roscommon Community Sports Park is a wonderful facility catering for the needs of everyone in Roscommon Town and surrounding areas. The facility comprises of a 3G Astro Pitch (a full size or 3 smaller size pitches), a multi-purpose building, which includes 4 dressing rooms, toilets and shower facilities and a comprehensive meeting room area which is available to local groups for rent. The proceeds raised will go to the upkeep and development of the facility.

The Roscommon Special Olympics club have been long-time supporters and beneficiaries of this event. The club provides bowling, swimming, boccia football and athletics for Special Olympic athletes. Many athletes have successfully represented the Roscommon Special Olympics club on the national and international stage in the past and proceeds raised would ensure that the services can continue to be provided and increase participation.

Participants can walk, jog, or run the 5K or 10K routes. The Roscommon Community Sports Park will be the headquarters and starting point for both the 5K and 10K routes and both routes will be signposted and marshalled along the way. The routes will bring participants along a moonlight tour of Roscommon town.

The event is open to everyone, and it is the perfect way to kickstart a healthy 2023. Everyone from beginners to accomplished runners are welcome to take part, and people of all ages and abilities are encouraged to join in. This is the ideal event to get everyone back into fitness after the Christmas festivities. The aim of this event is to have fun, race at their own pace and engage in physical activity while raising vital funds for two very worthy causes.

It is hoped that this event will be supported by all local running and athletics clubs, walking groups, the local secondary schools and all members of local sports clubs or gyms.

As usual for this event, the training programme is also returning. This has been very popular through the years and are tailored to suit the need of every participant. Perhaps you might want to run or walk off the New Year festivities or work up to successfully completing the 5 or 10k challenge or for those who want to walk each evening in the company of other walkers then this is the place for you. The 8-week training programme leads right up to the night of the event and will be delivered by fully qualified training instructors under the guidance of Noel and staff at Roscommon Sports Partnership. The

training will be a gradual build up to either the 5K or 10K for both walkers and runners. The training programme is aimed at walkers, joggers and runners of all abilities. The training will take place every Monday and Wednesday from the 4th of January at 7pm at the Roscommon Community Sports Park.

This year, the registration for both the training programme and the event itself will be done online only via Eventbrite. The link to register can be found on the Roscommon Community Challenge and Roscommon Sports Partnership Facebook pages or on our website www.rosactive.org

The fee for the 8-week training programme is €20, while the entry fee for the main event on the 3rd March is €20 for adults and €5 for children (the training fee does not include entry to the main event). All participants must have paid their registration online prior to the event.

Tea/coffee will be available for participants after the event at the Sports Park, all participants are encouraged to enjoy a hot refreshment and have a chat and reflect on the evening.

For more information contact info@rosactive.org or phone 086 1721181/090 6630853.

Students need more support in combatting instances of harassment

Let’s talk about ...

TACKLING HARASSMENT

(A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy

As we move towards the end of the year, the evenings continue to get darker, with the sun usually setting well before five o’clock rolls around. The shorter days aren’t new of course; we’re all well aware of (and all seem to universally dread) the dragging on of the evening hours when winter comes around – and more specifically, of having to put up with the inconvenience and negative knock-on-effect of only having a few daylight hours at our disposal.

For the most part, that’s all the darker evenings repre sent for people – temporary inconvenience/a gloomier atmosphere – but the darker evenings can also inspire worry in folks who now find them selves having to make the daily trek home in the ‘pitch-dark’.

In Galway, this issue took on a particular relevance last week when news broke that a student at the University of Galway was attacked on her way home from the library. While walking home at 7 pm in the Newcastle Road

area, a man jumped out from some bushes and grabbed her from behind. Luckily she was able to get free, pushing him off and getting away otherwise unharmed, but the incident nonetheless was a cause for serious concern – especially given the unfortunate fact that this isn’t the only incident of this nature to be reported in the general area recently.

Galway is a place that prides itself on being a ‘safe city’, one which even manages to curtail the dark evenings a touch at the moment by being lit up to the nines with Christmas lights. So, despite being one of the country’s most popular and well-populated areas, it’s a place that often feels decidedly safer to walk around in during the dimly-lit hours than perhaps some other Irish cities (Dublin/ Cork, etc). And yet, evidently, it’s not a city without safety concerns.

An Irish Independent analysis earlier this year referenced a significant increase in assaultrelated crimes reported in

Gospel Reflection

Sunday December 11 2022

John questions Jesus from prison in today’s Gospel – for his disciples’ sake and for ours.

He knows that Jesus is doing “the works of the Messiah,” foretold in today’s First Reading and Psalm. But John wants his disciples – and us – to know that the Judge is at the gate that in Jesus our God has come to save us.

The Liturgy of Advent takes us out into the desert to see and hear the marvellous works and words of God – the lame leaping like a stag, the dead raised, the good news preached to the poor (see Isaiah 29:18–20; 61:1–2).

The Liturgy does this to give us courage, to strengthen our feeble hands and make firm our weak knees. Our hearts can easily become frightened and weighed down by the hardships we face. We can lose patience in our sufferings as we await the coming of the Lord.

As James advises in today’s Epistle, we should take as our ex ample the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.

Jesus also points us to a prophet – holding up John as a model. John knew that life was more than food, the body more than clothing. He sought the kingdom of God first, confident that God would provide (see Matthew 6:25–34). John did not com plain. He did not lose faith. Even in chains in his prison cell, he was still sending his disciples – and us – to our Saviour. We come to Him again now in the Eucharist. Already He has caused the desert to bloom, the burning sands to become springs of living water. He has opened our ears to hear the words of the sacred book, freed our tongue to fill the air with songs of thanks giving (see Isaiah 30:18).

Once bowed down, captives to sin and death, we have been ransomed and returned to His Kingdom, crowned with everlast ing joy. Raised up, we now stand before His altar to meet the One who is to come: “Here is your God”.

-Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of

Galway, with figures exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The anec dotal evidence for this lines up too, with many people – women students particularly – sharing stories in recent weeks, both in person and online, warning others in the area of their experiences and advising them to keep safe. In addition to the Newcastle Road attack, recently there have been reports of incidents of harassment, of people being followed/groped in other areas which are densely populated with students. In light of this, female students living in such areas have become worried about walking home alone. Uncertainty over what exactly was being done to tackle the issue hasn’t helped, with no comment from the col lege until recently. Also, some students have spoken of trying to call the local Gardaí after being harassed, only to get no response and eventually having to actually go into the station in person.

However, after weeks of interstudent discussion on the matter, it seems some real progress is finally being made, with Gardaí visiting campus this week to talk through students’ concerns, and assurances being given that a gar da presence (both uniformed and plain-clothes) will be increased city-wide, particularly in the areas that have been the subject of reported incidents. Students who’ve experienced an incident are being encouraged to share any information with Gardaí, and beyond that, are being urged

to take appropriate measures to try and ensure their safety while walking home.

Of course students have already been taking precautions ever since the incidences first spiked.

Last week, a student set up a WhatsApp group for fellow women living in Newcastle who were feeling unsafe when walking home alone. The group chat (with over 250 members at the time of writing) was created to organise walking groups to/ from college. These groups have existed at the university before (1995-1998 and 2010), but not for some time. Given the current situation, the idea quickly caught on, with talk now of creating more groups for other areas. The popularity of the group

also let to concerns that it could conceivably be joined under false pretences by someone looking for information on the wherea bouts of female students. The initiative was undoubtedly cre ated with admirable intentions, and it has succeeded in providing a sense of comfort and a ‘safety in numbers’ feeling for students travelling to and from campus. But the possibility of infiltration remains a worry, and students already trying to simultaneously juggle both winter exams prepa rations and daily personal safety precautions, cannot really also be expected to oversee group chats and vet each member.

We already have a bad habit of putting too much pressure on targeted groups to avoid their

own harassment – ‘don’t do/ say/wear that’ etc. Taking precautions is of course always advisable, but when people are left to fill the void in protection that should be filled by institutions, it can make any person-led initia tives themselves vulnerable to failure.

College-organised walking groups could easily be set up in place of student-run ones, and this would allow for the entire project to run even more safely. University of Galway does indeed aim to play its part by inviting the Gardaí in –and, for example, by handing out free panic alarms – but they don’t seem overly moti vated to committing to fruitful, longer-term initiatives, like the ones organised by students at individual levels.

It honestly feels as though without the concerted efforts and unrelenting action taken by students themselves at a community level in recent weeks, we wouldn’t have seen anywhere near the same level of response from the Gardaí and colleges that we’re seeing now. In any case, I’m glad to see students’ efforts making a positive impact, and to see that substantial measures (on the part of others) are finally being taken.

Hopefully this issue will be tackled more effectively from now on. In the meantime, stay safe.

Creggs Charity Walk returns on St Stephen’s Day

After a break due to Covid, Creggs Charity Walk is back on the annual calendar, this year taking place on St. Stephen’s Day at 12 noon.

The annual walk around Mount Mary is a staple of Christmas in Creggs, which raises money for a variety of charities. This year, the funds raised will go towards ACT for Meningitis, Galway Hospice, Mayo-Roscommon Hospice and the Sunshine Room in Creggs.

Chairperson of the annual

walk, Michael O’Roarke said: “Everyone is welcome to take part, it’s a great way to walk off the Christmas turkey and meet neighbours and friends. This year we will have a number of novelty prizes for the most fes tive outfit and the best dressed pet, so it’s time to get your Santa hat and make a plan to get your doggie dressed up for the occa sion!”

Halfway through the walk, walkers can stop off in the hos pitable home of Mary Devaney and her family, where a wellearned break, some traditional tea and sandwiches and a few hot ones are often accompanied by a spontaneous sing-song. After the stop-off in Friaryland, the journey back to Creggs is all downhill and always seems a lot shorter than the trek up the mountain!

Sponsorship cards are now available from Michael O’Roarke in Roarke’s Spar in Creggs. So don’t forget to get your cards and we’ll see you on St. Stephen’s Day!

Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon)

Christmas Fair in Clooneycolgan

Clooneycolgan Christmas Fair will take place on Saturday, 10th of December from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm at the community centre.

There will be lots of home baking, handmade crafts, book stalls and much more to enjoy at this year’s Christmas fair. Santa will be arriving at 1.30 pm. €3 per child for Santa visit. A fun day out for all the family is guaranteed!

Christmas market in Culleen Hall

There will be a Christmas Food and Craft Market from 12 pm to 5 pm on Sunday, December 18th in Culleen Hall, Knockcroghery. To book a stand or for further information, contact Padraig on 087-2982925 or Billy on 086-8229817.

Harkin presses Taoiseach on Leitrim Driving Scheme funding

Deputy Marian Harkin has appealed to Taoiseach Micheál Martin to lend his support to Leitrim Community Driving Scheme as the Leitrim Volunteer Centre seeks funding for the service.

Speaking in the Dáil, the Sligo-Leitrim TD said she wished to highlight the great work being done by Leitrim Volunteer Centre in providing a community car scheme to assist isolated and vulnerable people to attend hospital appointments, go to the pharmacy, and/or to pick up shopping. 90% of the trips in question, she said, are for hospital appointments.

“The scheme has become a go-to support system for the HSE with referrals from public health nurses and other health officials. The centre gets no funding of any kind. Could the Taoiseach bring this to the attention of the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Deputy Humphreys, and the HSE to see if any support could be provided?” The Taoiseach described the community car scheme as very commendable and suggested there is a variety of localised funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development that people could ‘tap into’. He promised to follow up with both relevant ministers to see what can be done speedily.

Speaking later, Deputy Harkin said the Leitrim Volunteer Centre estimates it will cost about €50,000 per annum to put the scheme on a more sustainable footing.

‘Tea talk’ to feature at Roscommon Historical Society AGM

The AGM of the County Roscommon Historical & Archaeological Society will take place on Tuesday, 13th of December at 8 pm in the Cruachain Ai Centre, Tulsk. All members are requested to attend. Afterwards a short talk on the folklore of tea drinking in Ireland will be given by Albert Siggins.

Tea made gradual inroads in the beverage of the Irish people over the 18th and 19th centuries. When first introduced, many who brewed tea thought it had to be treated like cabbage and the leaves eaten with butter and salt as a condiment, and then the water thrown out. Though a fanciful thought, folklore tells us that this was a regular occurrence. Many old stories abound on this aspect of tea and were told around the firesides in times gone by. All are welcome to attend.

Progressive 25 at Lisheen NS!

Lisheen National School are delighted to announce their Christmas Progressive 25 Card Game will be held on Wednesday, 14th of December at 8.30 pm.

Prizes will include Christmas hampers and usual hospitality will be provided. We thank everyone for their continued support and wish you all a very Happy Christmas.

Mass for Healing in Curraghboy

A special Mass for Healing will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, Athlone on Friday, 9th of December, commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be newly-ordained priest, Fr. Antun Pasalic from Croatia. Confessions will be available from 7 pm and Rosary will begin at 7.30 pm. Individual healing will take place after Mass. All are most welcome.

Irish Suppliers & Installers of

THE BRIDGE CLUB

Roscommon Bridge Club

McManus Cup – 1st: Mary and Pearse Mellett; 2nd: Carmel Plunkett and Joan O’Shea; Gross: Larry Shine and Larry Curley. 1st Session: Judy Adamson and Olive Fahy; 2nd Session: Chris and John McGrath.

Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: Tresina Smyth and Tommie Mur phy; 2nd: Mary Coyle and Kathleen Holmes; Gross: Mary and Vincent Brennan.

St. Coman’s Bridge Club 1st: Kitty Dowd and Celia Ansboro; 2nd: Peggy Neilan and Mary Jo Ri ordan; Gross: Nuala Costello and Chris McGrath.

Ballymurray Bridge Club

Section A – 1st: Eileen Mulry and Ger ry Neilan; 2nd: George Bannon and John O’Gara; Gross: Judy Adamson and Evelyn Curley. Section B –1st: Maria Hickey and Rita Rough neen; 2nd: Monica Fallon and Marga ret Mullen; Gross: Michael Dolan and Kevin Coyle.

Christine and Lisa McNama pictured with Keena McGreal at the AIB Connacht JFC Club Final between St Ronan’s and Clifden in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Strokestown lights up for another successful Christmas Market!

Strokestown was a hive of activity last weekend with vendors and visitors arriving from near and far as the town played host to another successful Christ mas Market which took place over three days.

A spokesperson for the hard-working Christmas Market committee this week expressed their de light with how the event unfolded last weekend.

Speaking to the Ro scommon People this week, the spokesperson said: “We wanted to bring as much entertainment, excitement and Christmas spirit to the people of the town and surrounding areas and the marketgoers were not left disap pointed.

“Vendors were wel comed from all parts of the country as well as from the Strokestown area. There was a wide range of food on offer throughout the three days including burgers, hot dogs, crepes, hot choco late, mulled wine, as well as some wonderful new choices including toasted marshmallows and Span ish donuts, to name just a few.

“The transition year

students from Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown also showcased their amazing enterprise products. There was another great line-up of music this year from the Blackstick School of Music, the Blacksticks band; Peelo School of Dance, Feef, Pub Fiction, Brían Farrell, and our wonderful Friday night host John Nugent from Our Voice FM, who did an amazing job entertain ing the crowd and keep ing the show on the road!

“The novelty acts for the kiddies were a great hit and we got to meet the Grinch, Frosty the Snow man, the Gingerbread Man, and some local Elves. Not to forget our carousel for the little ones and of course the now fa mous ‘Rodeo Reindeer’, where local clubs and teams competed against each other to become rodeo champion!”

Santa Claus was also in town last weekend and the Strokestown Tractor Rally also proved popular with those in attendance.

“We had a beautiful weekend of smiling faces, happy children and Christmas fun. The event came to a close with some lovely carol singing from the committee and some of the vendors,” the

committee spokesperson added.

“The weekend would not have been possible with out the cooperation of the businesses and residents of Bawn Street, and we would like to extend a massive thank you for all your help and support.

“We would also like to thank Richard Rhattigan, and the volunteers who as sembled the chalets, MidRoscommon Vintage Club and the Christmas lights group, who once again have outdone themselves with the amazing display. They spent many hours getting the town ready to sparkle in time for the market and Santa’s arrival, and they are continuing to raise funds to add to the lights in the town going forward on their Facebook page”.

The committee also paid tribute to Roscommon County Council, the Arts Department, Roscommon LEADER, local public representatives, Tighe’s Agri, Barna Waste and the Roscommon Town Team, for their support in hosting the event.

“In addition, we would like to thank the following for volunteering their time or supporting the market in other ways: Frank Hanly (Eurospar), Barry

Hanly (Strokestown Hard ware), Gerry and Marilyn Kennedy (Westgate B&B), Pat Brogan Tractors, Strokestown Community Centre, Pauline Lavin, Gerry Jago, Cormac Dalton, Martin Greene, TY students from Scoil Mhuire, Mike Snype, and to everyone who assisted at the weekend with traffic management.

“Also, to anyone else who has helped us out in any way, we express our thanks,” the spokesperson said.

“The Christmas market

has brought the commu nity together and everyone has truly enjoyed the weekend. It makes all the hard work and organising worthwhile”.

Committee

The Strokestown Christ mas Market committee includes: Martina Murray, Louise Greene, Claire Mc Dermott, Julia Goodwin, and Steve Wintersgill. Our sources in The North Pole have confirmed that all are on Santa’s ‘Nice’ list this year!

< DAN DOONER

Transition year students from Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown played a big part in setting up Strokestown’s Christmas Market in the build-up to last week’s successful event.

Isla Brennan is cheered on by her nanny and daddy as she takes on the Rodeo Reindeer at Strokestown Christmas Market.

‘Buddy’ the Elf reports from Strokestown!

Merry Christmas Dan Dooner and all at Roscommon People. Buddy the Elf here reporting from The North Pole after my return from Strokestown’s magical Christ mas Market.

We are very busy at this time of year in The North Pole, working 26 hours a day building toys, but I will do my best to answer your questions…because I know how busy you are hounding the poor people of Roscommon with them at this time of year!

Tell us about yourself…

I am 456-years-old (in human years that’s 13). I live at the North Pole and build toys for children all over the world. I also help to look after the reindeer, mucking out poop which we use in our power plant. I sometimes go with Santa on his trips to meet the children; we were in Strokestown recently, and what a fantastic time we had! My favourite food is cookies and ice cream, my favourite drink is hot chocolate with fluffy marshmallows, Mrs. Claus makes the best! My best friend Spooner and I love to muck about…we are Elves after all!

How will you be spending Christmas this year?

This year will be the same as every year.

Christmas is very busy and so we will be working all Christmas, finishing toys, loading the sleigh, and tracking Santa’s progress so that all the children get a gift. We use ‘ELF NAV’, and when Santa gets home, we must tend to the reindeer, clean the workshop, and when all this is done, we have a massive party with cookies, hot chocolate, ice cream, cakes, jelly – and then we sleep until February.

Who’s on your ‘Nice’ list?

All the good children and people of the world are on the nice list.

One Christmas present you’ll never forget…

An eight-foot orange octopus…the has sle we had trying to get it into the sack!

Spooner had to climb into the sack and hold onto four legs while Windy (Windy by name, windy by nature…) held onto the other four as Santa delivered it.

All I want for Christmas this year…

As always, peace on earth and goodwill to everyone, especially Elves…and a hot chocolate made by Mrs. Claus.

Merry Christmas!

(In conversation with Roscommon People reporter Dan Dooner)

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I’m a very recent blow-in liv ing on about 1.3 acres of land used for fruit and vegetables, and more recently 40 some thing chickens and half a dozen ducks. I’m originally from Es sex and arrived to Roscommon via Newcastle, South Wales and just north of Manchester.

How will you spend Christ mas this year?

Christmas this year will be a lovely family day spent around a very well stocked table.

Who’s on your ‘Nice’ list this year?

I don’t really do lists, but this year I’ll be thinking about and missing my mam and the bairns.

One Christmas present you’ll never forget…

Being accepted into a loving household!

All I want for Christmas this year is…

Just an opportunity to spend time with the woman I love.

Buddy the Elf pictured with Santa’s Strokestown helpers Claire McDermott, Martina Murray and Louise Greene, and the man himself at Strokestown Christmas Market last weekend.

Martina Murray and Claire McDermott pictured with some friends at Strokestown’s Christmas Market.

Christmas People with Steve Wintersgill

Following the launch of Strokestown’s popular Christmas Market last weekend, a regular reader from The North Pole, who visited the town last weekend, contacted the Roscommon People to report on preparations in the run-up to Christmas Eve…

Christmas People

Tell

a bit about yourself…

I am a cashier and shop assistant at Hanly’s Eurospar. I have spent my entire working career in retail and love the buzz about Christmas and the shopping in the lead up to the big day. There has been a big build-up here in Strokestown with the Christmas Market and entertainment, which was a huge success last weekend. The town looks amazing and it’s great to

be working in retail where you meet so many different characters every day.

How will you spend Christmas this year?

I will be spending Christmas at home in Kilrooskey with my husband John and family and my grandchildren Hannah, Roisin and Jarlath. I’m looking forward

to friends and family calling this year as we have fewer restrictions compared with the last two years.

One Christmas present you’ll never forget…

Both our daughter and eldest grand daughter were born in December so I have to say they were the best early Christmas presents!

Who’s on your ‘Nice’ list this year?

My family, extended family, friends, and everyone at Eurospar!

All I want for Christmas is…

All I want this year is to be happy and healthy, and to enjoy the festive season. I’d also like to wish everyone I know the happiest Christmas and good health and luck for 2023.

Santa

Strokestown’s

Strokestown St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal

Strokestown Annual St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal is now taking place. Donation envelopes are available in the local churches and can be left in the local presbytery.

Anyone who wishes to contact Strokestown St Vin cent de Paul for assistance may do so at (086) 1013537. All support greatly appreciated.

Young Strokestown supporters pictured at the 2022 County Senior Football Championship Final in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Claus was in town last weekend to switch on

Christmas lights!

with Maureen Gibbons

# Roscommon Together

Caitlín, John and Caoimhe Feeney from Glinsk pictured in Roscommon Town during the turning on of the Christmas lights in the town recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Christmas all wrapped up for you at the Abbey Hotel

Enjoy the build-up to the festive season in style at the Abbey.

Carvery and lounge food is served daily, as well as a delightful festive à la carte menu, serving festive Christmas puddings and mince pies.

Why not experience the culinary delights of the Multi-Award Winning Chefs at the 4* Abbey Hotel Roscommon, for a dining experience where casual elegance and sophistication meets in a timeless relaxed atmosphere. County Winners of the RAI Best Chef & Best Hotel Restaurant Award 2019.

The 4* Abbey Hotel in Roscommon offers a varied range of dishes prepared from only the freshest of locally sourced produce and served with great care and attention to detail, therefore making it the perfect setting, whether dining in Roscommon for business or pleasure. The hotel offers an extensive Seasonal Bar Food Menu for those wishing for a less formal experience. Lounge Food is served daily from 4.30 - 9.00 p.m. Afternoon Tea is available and cost is €28.50 pp (with prior booking essential) there is also a takeaway Afternoon tea option.

It is advisable to make dinner reservations as our restaurant and lounge areas can be very busy at weekends and during the busy peak seasons especially with busy mid terms coming up.

After dinner guests can relax by the open fire in the luxurious newly refurbished lounge areas or in the Abbey Hotel Bar.

There is an extensive drinks and ‘Wines of the World’ menu to choose from and a large range of Cocktails are also served. We also serve an extensive range of craft beers, whiskeys, and liquors.

The Abbey Hotel is renowned for it’s Sunday Lunch with Carvery Lunch served

from 12.00pm - 4.00pm. We also serve a Four-Course Lunch Menu in our award-winning Restaurant.

Dinner is served from 6pm - 9pm each evening with Seasonal Bar Food served from 4.30 - 9.00 p.m daily. Samples of our menus are all available to view on our website.

Looking for gift ideas this festive season? Gift vouchers from the Abbey Hotel or Abbey Health & fitness make the perfect stocking filler.

Tickets are on sale at hotel reception for the “Remembering Joe Dolan Show” with members of the original Joe Dolan band live in hotel on January 27th.

The Abbey Hotel are now taking bookings for Pre Christmas Lunches in our restaurant.

Don’t forget to book your December 10th/17th Christmas party night at the Abbey Hotel with a festive mulled wine reception, four course Christmas themed meal, live band with music from the White Cakes band followed by disco and late bar. Price is €55. Special B&B rates on both nights when you book direct by phone with the hotel. Tel 090 6626240 email events@abbeyhotel.ie Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook Instagram and Twitter.

ADVERTORIAL

Late Friday evening wedding viewing at Abbey Hotel

Are you recently engaged and looking for the perfect venue at which to host your special day? With a reputation spanning six decades, the Abbey Hotel is one of the Midlands’ leading family-run wedding venues. It is owned and managed by the Grealy family since 1963. You have the reassurance of knowing your wedding day is in safe hands when you choose the Abbey.

View our ballroom and bridal suite and meet our dedicated wedding coor dinator this Friday (5-7 pm). We have some key dates available for 2023/24. We also cater for civil ceremonies and vow renewals, with a choice of indoor

and outdoor ceremonies.

“We understand that some couples may not have an opportunity to schedule appointments during the day owing to work commitments, so we have decided to facilitate late evening viewings here at the Abbey” explained Geraldine Grealy, Director of Marketing.

To schedule a viewing on Friday, 9th of December please call 090 6666211 or email weddings@abbeyhotel.ie (late evening viewings on December 9th are by prior appointment only).

*Follow the Abbey Hotel Roscom mon on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

us a bit about yourself…

I turned 20 recently and I have worked with my parents’ food donations service (Seed of Light) as long as I can remember. I love working with children and this is why I am currently studying childcare in college. I have also been working at the ABC Creche for almost six months and I love it.

How will you spend Christmas this year? I will spend this Christmas with my parents, my two sisters, and our four dogs! I wish I could also spend it with my brother and sisterin-law but unfortunately they live in London, but I will get over for a few days to see them. I have a little nephew and niece and they are such a joy in my life!

Who’s on your ‘Nice’ list this year?

All my lovely children are on my Nice list this year. They are little headaches sometimes but I love each one so much!

One Christmas present you’ll never for get…

The Christmas present I will never forget would be the year my Nana got me an icemaking machine. I know that sounds very ran dom, but I love ice-cold drinks! Even though everyone told my Nana that it was a silly gift, it brought me so much joy.

All I want for Christmas this year is…

This Christmas I want school stationery. I love pens and anything I can use for work!

Rute Marques pictured at the official opening of the Seed of Light Food Donation Centre on Church Street, Roscommon on Saturday, November 26th

Chamber and People link up on

Christmas is getting back to normal and Roscommon Chamber is busy organising events in the town in support of businesses in the community. The Chamber, in conjunction with the Roscom mon People, are running its annual shop local campaign.

The Chamber and the Roscommon People are again combin ing to offer a €1000 voucher giveaway! Details of the campaign and the prizes are in the Roscommon People and online each week leading up to Christmas.

The importance of shopping local to the local economy can not be overstated. It is in everyone’s interest to shop local and support local employment in local businesses. Every €20 spent locally is worth €100 to the local economy.

In addition to the shop local campaign, Roscommon Cham ber, in conjunction with AIB Bank, are running a competition amongst the members of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce for the best Christmas window displays.

All businesses, big or small, are encouraged to join in the festive mood. Every effort will enhance the experience and the look of the town over the Christmas season. The Chamber would like to thank AIB for its continued sponsorship of this event.

Also, the Chamber is coordinating the Christmas Markets again this year, in conjunction with Roscommon County Council and Town Team. These take place on this Saturday and Sunday, 10th and 11th of December (1-6 pm) as part of a Christmas Festival.

The Market was a fantastic event last year and brought great atmosphere and business to the town. It is hoped that the Market will grow and develop in the years ahead. There will be over 50 stalls, food and entertainment, along with a few surprises. RosFM will be providing music over the course of the two days and some of our local school choirs will be providing some festive entertainment. All in all we hope that the Markets will be another resounding success. They cannot but add to the wonder ful sense of Christmas created by the lights and displays around the town (installed by the Christmas Lights Committee).

# RoscommonTogether

Model railway show opens on Friday

One of the most popular annual Christmas features of recent years for both children and adults reopens in Roscommon town this weekend with the staging of the fourth annual model railway show for train enthusiasts of all ages in a shop unit on the front of the Old Gaol.

The model railway show features five of the most popular railway sets from down the years and always attracts a bumper crowd of train enthusiasts of all ages from all over the county and the region, while raising money for local

charities and good causes.

Organised by the Roscommon Town Men’s group and Roscom mon LEADER Partnership SICAP team, the show will be open this year in the old Roscommon Herald unit in front of the Old Gaol and is very convenient to everyone attending the festival this weekend.

Admission is free but raffle tick ets will be on sale for some very special prizes over the next few weeks and funds will go to a range of local good causes.

Opening hours are: Friday, 9th of

December (2 pm-6 pm); Saturday, 10th of December (12 pm-7 pm); Sunday, 11th of December (12 pm-7 pm); Friday, 16th of Decem ber (2 pm-6 pm); Saturday, 17th of December (12 pm-6 pm); Sunday, 18th of December (2 pm-6 pm); Thursday, 22nd of December (2 pm-6 pm); Friday, 23rd of Decem ber (12 pm-6 pm); Saturday, 24th of December (12 pm-6 pm).

The committee wishes to thank the unit owners and John Earley for their support. The show can be opened by special request for a group. Call (086) 0836720.

Aware hosts 17th annual Christmas 5K

In the run-up to Christmas this year, why not do some thing to support your own wellbeing whilst helping peo ple impacted by depression and bipolar disorder by taking part in the 17th annual Aware Christmas 5K.

From Friday 9th-Sunday 11th of December, people in Roscommon and all over the country are being encour aged to come together physically or virtually to be part of this fun, festive and healthy event to support Aware’s vital services. You can walk, jog, run or hike in your favourite 5k route anywhere in the country at a time of your choice over the event weekend, and share your efforts and your support on social media using the hashtag #WeAreAware. Those who want to get into the festive spirit of the Aware Christmas 5K are encouraged to dress up. So, whether it’s a nod to Santa with a hat, a Christmas jumper to keep you warm, or a ‘full on’ costume with bells and lights, you’ll be guaranteed to bring some fun to your run!

The annual Aware Christmas 5k is one of the charity’s most important fundraising events of the year. Aware, which was established in 1985, is the national organisa tion providing free support, education, and information for people impacted by depression, bipolar disorder, and related mood conditions.

Online registration is now open at aware.ie/christ mas5K at a cost of €25 per person. Each participant will receive a custom medal that doubles as a Christmas tree decoration and a treat from event sponsor Cadbury.

If you are impacted by depression, bipolar disorder or other mood-related conditions, you can contact Aware’s free support line 7 days a week from 10 am to 10 pm on 1800 80 48 48.

For more information on Aware or to register for their 2022 virtual Christmas 5K fundraiser, visit aware.ie/ christmas5k #WeAreAware

Some of the model railway sets on show at the exhibition in the Old Gaol.

Annual Christmas Raffle in Lisnamult

The Lisnamult Residents’ and Tenants’ Association Annual Christmas Raffle will take place on Thursday, 15th of December, with great prizes up for grabs.

Prize list: 1st prize: €500 voucher spon sored by Fleming’s SuperValu; 2nd prize: €150 voucher sponsored by Time Pieces; 3rd prize: €100 voucher sponsored by McGuinness’ Pharmacy; 4th prize: €100 cash sponsored by Liam Stephens/Klassic Cleaners; 5th prize: €100 cash sponsored by Ivan and Martin Connaughton; 6th prize: €100 sponsored by John Gaynor; 7th prize: €100 Voucher sponsored by Gleeson’s; 8th prize: €100 cash sponsored by Lisnamult

Tenants & Residents Association.

A book of three tickets is just €5. A sin cere thanks to all local businesses for sponsoring prizes. To purchase tickets, please contact 090-6626152, Anthony on 087-2125684 or Una on 086-8033503. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Festival of Lessons and Carols

A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas will take place at St. Coman’s Church of Ireland, Hen ry Street, Roscommon town this evening (Thursday, December 8th) from 8 pm. Everyone welcome!

experience

Christmas People

Tell us a bit about your self…

I am the Head Coach at Coman’s Swimming Club and those of you that frequent Roscommon Leisure Centre early in the morning will see me on the deck from 6 am three mornings a week. I along with other coaches, train our swimmers aged 6 to 17 years in sessions from 2 hours up to 9.5 hours per week. We work tirelessly all those early mornings and long nights to ensure our athletes grow and develop to their fullest potential ensuring we have additional measures in place to retain young people and, in particular, girls in sport. These include strength and conditioning programmes and out of pool activities to bring that social element to the sport. It is nice to think that we are contribut ing to that wider health and wellbeing agenda.

How will I spend Christ mas this year?

For me, Christmas is at home with my family, eating, watching Christmas movies

and taking a few day trips in between. No doubt there will be a walk or two up Slieve Bawn to work off all those treats! Swimmers do not have long holidays, but thanks to the accommo dations of Roscommon Lei sure Centre we don’t have to get up at silly o’clock to train so this is welcomed! We will have long course training in Limerick over the holidays but the change of pool and interaction with other clubs is a welcome change too.

One Christmas present you will never forget... Monopoly…it led me to the misguided view as a young

person that you could accu mulate wealth so easily!

Who is on your ‘Nice’ list this year?

From a coaching perspec tive, I have to say all of our club sponsors who recently ensured our swimmers have new club gear for the season ahead. I have to add Roscom mon Sports Partnership to the list for all their assistance and guidance. Most of all my coaching colleagues and club committee who have ensured the club’s continued growth and success. Although swim ming is an individual sport there is a huge sense of club and team that is so difficult to explain.

From a personal perspec tive, my family who have continued to support me in all I do.

All I want for Christmas is

The alarm clock to stop ring ing at silly o’clock (5.10 am) and I look forward to going out to eat and not having to think about the mornings for a few days.

A Rossie Christmas across the cultural divide…

Roscommon town has become a multicultural community in recent years with people from across the world now making the county town their home.

While there have been strong Brazilian, Polish and Slovakian communities here for a number of years, this past year saw the arrival of Ukrainian people fleeing war in their homeland. This week, Roscommon People reporter Dan Dooner spoke to those celebrating Christmas in Roscommon away from their native lands…

Oksana & Solomiia

Oksana and her daughter Solomiia fled Ukraine just two months ago and have been living in Roscommon town ever since. Last year, they celebrated Christmas at home, but due to the Russian invasion, Christmas 2022 will have an altogether different feel.

“We have Christmas decorations and lights in Ukraine too but there are more here,” Oksana said.

“We usually celebrate New Year more than Christmas…we celebrate Christmas on January 7th traditionally but in the last years we have started to celebrate on December 25th. The biggest reason for changing is the war with Russia. Our church was part of the Russian church but now we want to divide ourselves (from Russia) in all aspects of life”.

The rest of Oksana’s family – including her husband – are still in Ukraine.

“I hope that I will go to Ukraine for Christ mas holidays but not to my home because it is in central Ukraine. I will meet with my husband in west Ukraine near the border. I will fly to Poland and by bus I can go into Ukraine. I hope we can spend several days together…it will be my birthday in January too,” she explained.

Presents are traditionally exchanged on January 7th in Ukraine, according to Oksana.

“We give presents in New Year, not at Christmas. Children will find presents under the tree on the 1st of January. It is not Santa who delivers presents in Ukraine it is ‘Father Frost’, Did Moroz,” she said.

Mark’s story

Mark arrived from Ukraine three months

ago and is looking forward to his mother and brother joining him in Roscommon this Sunday in time for Christmas.

“I’m from Odessa, a big city near the sea in Ukraine. I like it here, it’s a great place. At New Year back home I would meet with my friends and we would go to a bar to gether. It’s more popular to celebrate New Year in Ukraine so it is different here,” he said.

Morgana’s story

Morgana is from northern Brazil and has lived in Ireland for five years. She has never been back to Brazil in that time. She lives here with her husband and their three-yearold son.

“In Brazil, the biggest difference is that we have dinner and give presents on December 24th,” she said.

“On the 25th we have a big breakfast and another day with our family but our biggest day is Christmas Eve. It’s the same as Ireland but the day is different.

“We have Secret Santa and we don’t wait for Santa Claus to come down the chim ney on Christmas Day because it’s a warm country so we don’t have many chimneys (laughs)”.

While some Brazilians will enjoy turkey for Christmas dinner, many others will eat chicken. However, one common tradition is a joke centred around a popular dessert.

Morgana explained that the joke usu ally happens like this. Everyone is sitting around the table and someone will ask: “what’s for dessert?” The answer is always “pavé!”, a dessert made of biscuits, fruit and cream. To which an uncle or another family member fond of dad jokes will respond, “É pavé ou pacume?”

“Pavé” sounds very similar to saying “pra ver” which means “to see” very quickly.

“Pacume” is a contracted version of “pra comer” or “to eat” and so “É pavé ou pacume?” translates as “Is it to see or to eat?”

Say what you like but it’s still funnier than the Mrs. Brown’s Boys’ Christmas Special.

Alexia’s story

Alexia is from Roscommon but her parents are Romanian. She says her family have the usual Irish Christmas with a few minor alterations.

“I’ve never been to Romania during Christmas and we have been here so long that we just do everything the same. We celebrate on the same day and it’s very similar. The only difference is that my par ents wouldn’t really have turkey it would be more pork instead,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to Christmas this year but I’ve only got some of my shopping done so far!”

Patrik’s story

Patrik Polyak hails from Slovakia, where, he says, Christmas celebrations are quite similar to in Ireland.

“Christmas celebrations begin on Christ mas Eve with visits to family, carol singing and a drink or two,” he says.

“On Christmas morning, like here, presents are opened and only light food is eaten until 6 pm when a large meal of soup, fish and salads are enjoyed by the family”.

Since arriving in Ireland, Patrik and his siblings take turns to host Christmas Dinner, and the Christmas Eve visits have reduced since extended family members are now spread throughout Europe.

“My parents usually come to visit at Christ mas but I am getting married in January so they will wait until then for a big celebra tion,” he concluded.

Wishing all our listeners a very Happy Christmas and also our sponsors, agencies and volunteers from

broadcasting from our new studios at Lanesborough Road Roscommon

Successful “Reconnecting with Communities” Plenary Event

Roscommon Public Par ticipation Network (RPPN) hosted a highly informa tive Bi-Annual Plenary Meeting, and Community Networking Event in the Abbey Hotel Roscommon Town on Tuesday, Novem ber 29th

The event gave an op portunity for attendees to learn about PPN activities hosted throughout 2022 and receive a financial up date. In addition, the PPN Secretariat and Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) representatives were rati fied on the night.

Margaret Mulligan, Chairperson of RPPN opened the night’s pro ceedings with a welcoming address to all members in attendance. The audience consisted of cross-sectoral representation, including various groups from the Social Inclusion, Commu nity & Voluntary and Envi ronmental Pillars.

Shane Tiernan, the interim Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council addressed the au dience on the important role that the PPN plays in facilitating community representation on key lo cal decision making struc tures including the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) and

the Joint Policing Com mittee (JPC).

The Chief Executive also highlighted the in creased funding opportuni ties available through Ro scommon County Council and the central role the PPN will play in keeping communities informed and engaged.

Addressing those pre sent, Martina Earley, CEO

of Roscommon LEADER Partnership drew attention to the concept of ‘Com munities Igniting Change’. She highlighted best prac tice examples from across the county, including Moore Community Coun cil.

The event culminated with a panel discussion on the latest funding supports available to communities

which included presenta tions from Roscommon County Council and Ro scommon LEADER Part nership. The panel also in cluded representation from BHP Insurance, where the audience were afforded the opportunity to voice their concerns on rising insur ance costs.

The event concluded with those in attendance

being informed of Ro scommon PPN’s excit ing plans for 2023 where they learned of Net work’s strategic ambi tions for the year ahead. Furthermore, PPN staff also outlined provisional plans for forthcoming engagements, events and workshops, which will be confirmed subse quently.

To

Pictured at the recent PPN consultative forum which took place in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were - back row (l. to r.): John Mulvihill (Secretariat), Oliver Lydon, PPN Support Worker, Niall Croghan (Secretariat), Gerard Fallon (Secretariat), Paul Clabby PPN Officer and Marion Parker(Secretariat). Front row (l. to r.): Vincent Moran (Secretariat), Majella Dodd Secretariat), Margaret Mulligan (Secretariat) & Kevin Conry (Secretariat)

People

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I’m from a small hurling village called Tooreen in County Mayo. I’m 20-years-old and I’m the eldest of three sisters. I’m currently in my second year studying social care at TUS Athlone and completing work experience at South Roscommon FRC.

How will you spend Christmas this year?

I’m working Christmas Eve at Val’s Bar and Bistro in Ballyhaunis and then

I’ll go for a few bevvies with the work crew afterwards. It’s dad’s year to cook Christmas dinner, so he’ll be slaving away on Christmas Day. We’ll get up and go to Mass and then spend the rest of the day eating!

One Christmas present you’ll never forget…

Me and my sisters were really sporty and active growing up and one year when we were kids we asked for kayaks…all three of us! We woke up that year and there were three huge kayaks in the sitting room!

Who’s on your ‘Nice’ list this year?

My family and friends and the Fam

ily Resource Centre here for taking me in on work placement.

All I want for Christmas this year is… Money or a holiday…em…a trip to

Oisín and Caoimhe Reynolds pictured in Roscommon town recently waiting for Santa to turn on the Christmas lights. Pic: Kieran Croghan

The Season of giving!

‘Seed of Light’ Food Donation Centre officially opens

< DAN DOONER

The ‘Seed of Light’ Food Donation Centre, a project of the Light for the People Ministries, officially opened on Church Street in Roscom mon town last month – just in time for Christmas.

The Light for People Min istries mission is to spread the Gospel while helping the most vulnerable in our com munity in any way possible.

Speaking following the launch of the food dona tion centre, Pastor Pedro Marques said the project had been ramped up post-Covid.

“Six years ago we started in a very informal way to receive donations from the local supermarkets and we started delivering those dona tions mainly to the members of the Light for the Church that needed them,” he said.

“With Covid, we received calls from many families, and for about four months we were delivering door to door to over 25 families, most of them outside the church, both in Roscommon town and also neighborhood towns.

“Because of this growth we had to find a place that suited the needs for the food bank and Light for the Peo

ple invested over €12,000 in renovating the new facilities. All of this money came from donations”.

Through its partnership with Foodcloud, Tesco, Aldi, Lidl and other local businesses and individuals, the Light of the People Ministries has been able to diversify and de liver a wider range of food to those in need.

“We are so grateful, firstly to God for bringing this dream into our hearts and giving us the strength and perseverance to continue to do this. Also to our Light for the People family who have supported us and helped us. We are also very grateful to the partnerships and to all the people that have contributed one way or another. Thank you all,” Pastor Pedro added.

With the rising cost of liv ing as well as other eco nomic factors brought on by Covid-19, the need for a food donation centre in Roscom mon has grown and now Pe dro and his team are calling on volunteers to lend a hand.

“Week after week the needs are great and growing. We need more volunteers, and more partnerships from busi nesses in the food industry as well as financial support so we can continue to do what we do,” he said.

“Our goal for 2023 is to do more and do it better, reach ing out to all those in need, and fighting poverty while loving, caring, and serving our community”.

Ana Paula Marques, Rute Marques and Pedro Marques pictured at the official opening of the Seed of Light Food Donation Centre on Church Street, Roscommon on Saturday, November 26th

Pictured at the official opening of the Seed of Light Food Donation Centre on Church Street in Roscommon on Saturday, November 26th were (left to right): Pedro Marques, Ana Paula Marques (Pastor), Mariusz Zietek (Foodcloud), John Cleary (Tesco), and Rute Marques (Seed of Light).

Some of the food items donated to the Seed of Light Food Donation Centre, which officially opened on Church Street, Roscommon on Saturday, November 26th

Santa Dash in aid of

Ella Donlon and Ronald McDonald House

County Roscommon Athletics will host a Santa Dash fun run this Saturday (December 10th) to support Ella Donlon and her chosen charity Ronald Mc Donald House.

Roscommon girl Ella (16) recently received a welcome surprise from Ryan Tubridy and her favourites Irish band ‘Picture This’ at Ronald McDonald House. She spent 595 days in Crumlin Children’s Hospital, where she was receiving treatment for Gastroparesis and related dysmotility and digestive issues.

Ella’s family have described how Ronald McDonald House provided them with a second home and a place where the 16-year-old could be with her family and friends during her treatment.

“In our time there we met a number of other Roscommon families who benefited from the facility. It could be anyone you know at any stage in life so please support if you can,” they said.

The 5K Santa Dash/1K fun run and walk will take place at 11 am this Saturday from Hannon’s Hotel. The 1K Kids’ Fun Run starts at 11 am and the adults’ race begins at 11.30 am. All proceeds will go towards Ronald McDonald House charities.

Pictured left is the fantastic Ella Donlon

# RoscommonTogether

My top ten sportspeople of 2022

By Daniel Tiernan

Eliud Kipchoge

The man who finished a marathon in under two hours has had an extremely successful year in which he has man aged to enhance his previous world record by a massive 30 seconds. The Kenyan competed in and won the Berlin Marathon, setting the new official men’s world record with an astounding time of just 2:01:09. He also finished in 1st place in the Tokyo Marathon earlier in the year. This re markable long-distance runner has now triumphed in 15 out of his 17 career marathons.

Katie Taylor

The Wicklow native defended her world titles twice this year, both bouts being extremely entertaining with Taylor displaying fantastic skill and her usual competitiveness. Taylor fought seven-division world cham pion Amanda Serrano in Madison Square Garden which was built up as the ‘biggest women’s fight of all time’. Taylor also competed against undefeated boxer Karen Carabajal, which resulted in a unanimous deci sion victory for the Irish fighter.

Rory McIlroy

The Northern Irish golfer is currently World Number 1 after having a very impressive year, winning the Cana dian Open, Tour Championship and the CJ Cup. He has topped the Fed ExCup standings and the DP World Tour rankings. The golfer has earned an estimated $28 million for his per formances this year.

Karim Benzema

The French international footballer has had a fantastic 2022. He has dom inated the La Liga and the Champions League with his side Real Madrid. He finished both competitions as the top goalscorer. The forward’s brilliant year wasn’t overlooked as he was re warded with the Ballon D’or by the second biggest margin ever from 2nd placed Sadio Mane. Unfortunately Benzema is missing out on the World Cup due to injury.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Greek basketball player – also known as the ‘Greek Freak’ – has been a dominant force in the NBA. The Power-Forward has been unstop pable both on offence and defence. He couldn’t however lead his team to silverware like the year before, as they lost a 7-game series to the Brook lyn Nets. This defeat didn’t occur due to Antetokounmpo as he became the first NBA player to have at least 200 points, 100 rebounds, and 50 assists in a playoff series.

Elaine Thompson-Herah

The Jamaican sprinter has had an in credible year as she has excelled in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m races. The sprinter won gold in the 100m final in the Commonwealth Games during the year and is currently the fastest women alive with her time of 10.93 for the 100m sprint just 0.05 seconds slower than an unbroken record set 30 years ago.

Rafael Nadal

Nadal has been having an outstanding year in the tennis world, winning both the Australian and French Open. He also set the male record for most ma jors won with an amazing 22 victories, just one off Serena Williams on 23. The 36-year-old only recorded 7 losses throughout the year going unbeaten un til March where he later told interview ers he was playing with a stress fracture in his rib.

Aaron Donald

The Defensive Tackler has an amazing resume with 8 Pro Bowls, 7 All-Pro selections and now Super Bowl Cham pion added to that. He has been in strumental for the Los Angeles Rams, being ranked the best defensive player in the sport for the last five years. He was thinking of retiring after the Super Bowl victory but was persuaded by a lucrative contract which makes him the highest paid Non-Quarterback in NFL history.

David Clifford

David Clifford was honoured with the Gaelic Football Player of the Year award for his achievements with Kerry throughout the year. He helped Kerry win the Division 1 League and the AllIreland title and was the main talisman for the team, racking up an unbeliev able 6-49 across league and champi onship. His achievements didn’t stop there as he led East Kerry to a county final win and his home club Fossa to a junior final win. He has been named captain for Kerry’s senior football team next year where he hopes to win backto-back All-Ireland championships.

Diarmaid Byrnes

Diarmaid Byrnes has become the 3rd Limerick recipient of the Hurler of the Year award in recognition of a great year with the Treaty County as they won the All-Ireland senior hurl ing title after a well deserved victory against strong Kilkenny opposition. He beat the likes of teammate Barry Nash and Kilkenny forward TJ Reid to the award. Byrnes broke the record for most points scored by a defender in a single season, slotting 0-36 over the bar across 7 games.

*Daniel Tiernan, a Transition Year student at Roscommon CBS, is currently on work experience with the Roscommon People

the best selection in town of Christmas cakes, plum puddings, boxes of chocolates, tins of biscuits, Christmas lights, fibre optic trees, long red Christmas candles.

PETS - See our selection of Rabbit Hutches, Bird cages, Aquariums, dog collars, Dog Leads, Dog Cushions, Dog Flea Collars.

Wormers and flea treatments for cats and dogs.

See

Volunteers keeping the lights on in Castlerea!

< DAN DOONER

Santa Claus took time out of his very busy schedule last Friday night to switch the Christmas lights on in Castlerea as part of a virtual ceremony which was live-streamed by Castlerea.ie.

While the town is now aglow for the festive peri od, the hard work doesn’t stop and a small group of

volunteers, made up of local business people and residents, will be keeping an eye out for any blown bulbs and other issues throughout the month of December.

Local auctioneer, Paul Lafferty, who is a member of the ‘Castlerea Light Brigade’, said the job of il luminating the town began weeks ago.

“It starts out in Gareth Scahill’s warehouse in late October/early November when we check the lights to make sure they’re all working and label where they all go,” Paul explained.

COUGHS OR COLDS

Try our new seasons Castlerea Local Honey (limited amount).

Also try our special cough bottle and Woodwards Gripe Water & TCP.

See the best selection in town of Christmas Cakes, Plum Puddings, Boxes of Chocolates, Tins of Biscuits, Christmas Lights, Fibre Optic Trees, Long Red Christmas Candles

See our selection of Rabbit Hutches, Bird Cages, Aquariums, Dog Collars, Dog Leads, Dog Cushions, Dog Flea Collars, Pony & Horse Head Collars. Wormers and Flea treatments for cats and dogs

Large Range of Shoe or Fabric Dyes. Camouflage Jackets, Jumpers. Cotton Work Shirts only €16.99.

See our selection of Rabbit Hutches, Bird Cages, Aquariums, Dog Collars, Dog Leads, Dog Cushions, Dog Flea Collars, Pony & Horse Head Collars. Wormers and Flea treatments for cats and dogs COUGHS OR COLDS

“We have a GoFundMe page set up and it’s gone very well this year with local people and busi nesses contributing as well as local people who have businesses in other towns.

Rainwear, Socks, Boot Socks, Waders, Wellingtons and Hats.

COUGHS OR COLDS

Try our new season Castlerea local Honey (Limited Amount). Also try our Special Cough Bottle & Woodwards Gripe Water.

There is a higher cost this year than previous years so every contribution is greatly appreciated”.

ARCHERY: Childrens and adults Archery Bows, Targets Arrows and Strings.

Try our new season Castlerea local Honey (Limited Amount). Also try our Special Cough Bottle & Woodwards Gripe Water.

Bird Feed: Chicken, Duck, Hen feed etc, bird seed in bulk, Canary, Budgie, Wildbird etc.

Peanuts 25kg, Rabbit Feed, Hamster etc.

Wildbird Feeders, Moth Balls (Old Time)

Golden Frisky by the Bag or by the Pound

Large Range of Shoe & Fabric Dyes Camouflage Jackets, Jumpers, Cotton Work Shirts Only €16.99, Rainwear, Socks, Boot Socks, Waders, Wellingtons, Hats.

Large Range of Shoe & Fabric Dyes Camouflage Jackets, Jumpers, Cotton Work Shirts Only €16.99, Rainwear, Socks, Boot Socks, Waders, Wellingtons, Hats.

ARCHERY: Childrens and Adults Archery Bows, Targets, Arrows and Strings Chicken Duck Hen Feed etc.

The local Christmas lights committee, Paul ex plains, is made up of two separate groups operating on either side of the bridge in Castlerea.

IDEAL GIFTS

and replacing bulbs to ensuring vehicles carrying high loads pass through the town safely without causing a blackout, there’s work for everyone on the lights team.

Bird Seed in bulk, Canary, Budgie, Wildbird, etc. Peanuts, 25kg, Rabbit Feed, Hamster etc. Fox Repellent, Wildbird Feeders, Moth Balls (Old Time), Golden Frisky Maverick by the bag or by the Pound

IDEAL GIFTS

Aquariums, Fishing Rods, Rechargeable Lamps, Peterson Pipes, Binoculars etc, Maglites, Victorinox Knives, LED Lensor, Indur ladies and gents wallets, Old Moores Almanac, 100% Cotton Shirts only €14.99, Pyjamas, Tights (buy 2 get one free), watches at reasonable prices Fiddles and Violins (half), three quarter and full size Ideal present for children.

ARCHERY: Childrens and Adults Archery Bows, Targets, Arrows and Strings Chicken Duck Hen Feed etc. Bird Seed in bulk, Canary, Budgie, Wildbird, etc. Peanuts, 25kg, Rabbit Feed, Hamster etc. Fox Repellent, Wildbird Feeders, Moth Balls (Old Time), Golden Frisky Maverick by the bag or by the Pound IDEAL

Aquariums, Fishing Rods, Rechargeable Lamps, Peterson Pipes, Binoculars, etc. Maglites, Victorinox Knives, Led Lensor, Indur Ladies & Gents Wallets, Old Moores Almanac, 100% Cotton Shirts

Full selection of Blue Willow Delph. Epsom Salts for feet or baths (€1.99 per pound).

Briquettes, Firelogs and coal.

“There’s a bit of competi tion between the two sides of the town and we have two contrasting styles so it’s always interesting to see how the lights turn out,” Paul says.

“At our end of the town we have Barry Gill driving the teleporter which is

from Websters. We also have Gareth Scahill, Mike and Rory Webb from Webb’s Butchers, Michael McDermott, Dermot Ly ons, Adam Mulvihill, and Niall Tully. We are also grateful to local businesses such as Jimmy Doherty’s Garage for providing ac cess to power.

“While some come out in all weather to lend a hand, there are others who keep the jokes flowing in the WhatsApp group…and that’s a big help for morale too!”

From untangling lights

“It takes all sorts,” Paul says. “Some people are good at going up high while others are ex-perts in untangling knots. I’m mostly involved in traf fic control safely on the ground.

“It’s about getting out there and doing your bit for the town. We usually pick the coldest, wettest

Christmas People with Meaghan O’Doherty

Tell us a bit about yourself…

My name is Meaghan. I am 28-years-old and I work in St. Michael’s Special School in Castlerea. I love a good old sing-song at Christmas with the family!

How will you be spending Christmas this year?

This year I’m looking forward to spending Christmas with my boyfriend and his family.

Who’s on your ‘Nice’ list this year?

My boyfriend David would

have to be top of the list of course!

One Christmas present you’ll never forget…

Definitely my Christmas present in 2019 when I was surprised with a trip to Paris to see the Six Nations match the following March…but then lockdown arrived!

All I want for Christmas this year is…

All I want for Christmas this year is a normal Christmas Day and a happy and healthy 2023 for everyone!

day to put the lights up and then we keep an eye out for any issues over Christmas. When they come down in January we take care to store them as tidy as we can so there aren’t as many knots the following year!”

Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and residents, the Christmas lights will remain on in Castlerea throughout Christmas and into the New Year. To donate, search for ‘Castlerea Christmas Lights 2022’ on www.gofundme.com.

Around €3,000 has so far been raised through a GoFundMe page set up to support Castle-rea’s Christmas Lights Committee this year.

The voluntary committee, which has thanked all those who have contributed in any way to illuminating the town this year, has sought the support of local businesses

The People’s Christmas Selection Box

There’s still time to win a fabulous trip to The Big Apple with Cas tlerea Musical Society’s big ‘Win a Trip to New York’ fundraising draw set to take place on January 8th, 2023.

The prize includes

flights and transfers, a five-night stay for two people in a New York hotel, €15,000 in spending money, and tickets to two Broad way shows!

To be in with a chance of winning this won-

derful prize, log on to www.winatriptonew york.ie and purchase your tickets. Tickets, which would make an ideal Christmas present, cost €20 each, three for €50, and six for €100.

and residents in helping to pay for electric ity and ongoing maintenance costs.

To support, go to GoFundMe and search ‘Castlerea Christmas Lights 2022’.

Thanks for lighting up the town!

Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice this week paid trib ute to the Castlerea Community Employment Scheme for all their hard work in helping to brighten up the town ahead of another busy Christmas.

Workers repaired Christmas lights, created new light globes, and made a lovely Christmas tree at Hell’s Kitchen. Well done all!

Christmas People

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I was born in Glenama ddy in Co. Galway and went to school in Ardeevin NS. I am one

of six siblings and grew up on a farm so I love the outdoors and animals. I have been working in the health and beauty indus try for over 20 years and I love it. It’s growing at the

speed of light and I run a very busy clinic on Main Street in Castlerea called Bliss Beauty, Nutrition and Health Clinic. I love my work and working with the community.

How will you spend Christmas this year?

I will be spending Christmas with family and friends this year in Glenamaddy. I’m very lucky to have a large family and I’m re ally looking forward to spending as much time as possible with them. I have a lot of nieces and nephews so I’m hoping to catch up with them this Christmas too.

Also, my brother and his wife and family are in Sweden so I’m hoping to get over to see them in the New Year.

One Christmas present you’ll never forget…

When I was very young my sister bought me a jewellery box. It was white with loads of drawers and every drawer and little compartment was full of jewellery. She had filled it with rings, chains and bracelets. My eyes lit up when I saw it and I

still have it and love it to this day.

For more sentimental reasons, the best Christ mas gift is the memory of Christmas Eve. All of us at home, roasting the ham and exchanging Christmas presents.

Who’s on your ‘Nice’ list this year?

Ah now that would be telling!

All I want for Christ mas this year is…

Christmas Food Appeal

The Castlerea Family Resource Centre’s Christmas Food Appeal has commenced. This Christ mas will be difficult for a lot of families and Castlerea FRC aims to provide hampers of non-perish able goods, turkeys, potatoes, and vegetables to local people in need of support.

If you would like to donate any food items, a food voucher, or pledge a turkey, please con-tact Martina on 086-1711394. Your support is greatly appreciated.

All I want is the same thing I’ve wanted for the last 20 years or so…to finish up on Christmas Eve, wind down, and spend as much time as possible with family and friends. I run a very busy practice and I’m busy all week through-out the year. I love to down tools, eat, drink and be merry with family and friends, and be there for ones I love at Christmas. It’s a little break for me to plan and to rest after a very busy season. Web: www.seanbrownevideo.ie

Pictured

James Morris, Georgia Lee Morgan and Paidi Connaughton having fun in the Sensory hub at Castlerea Library. Picture: Glynn’s Photography

with Rachel Heviken

Castlerea – A town on the up this Christmas!

Last weekend was a busy one in Castlerea as Santa Claus switched on the town’s Christmas lights as part of a virtual ceremony on Friday evening before crowds flocked to the Christmas Fair at The Hub.

Local councillor and businessman, Paschal Fitzmaurice said this Christmas promises to be a very special one for a town that’s on the up.

“There has been a lot of very positive news in Castlerea recently and the town has experienced a huge uplift lately with the regeneration of a lot of local properties. The town has certainly been a lot busier over the last two years,” Paschal said.

There has been increased investment in Castlerea and surrounds over the past two years with fund ing granted for an outdoor performance venue at Somers Park and the continued running of the popular outdoor swimming pool.

“We have received significant funding for the

outdoor entertainment area at Somers Park and work is almost complete on the outdoor dome, after Ro scommon County Council secured match funding. This is a super venue for all kinds of different events. It’s not just for music concerts but also for markets and school events and much, much more,” Paschal said.

“This dome is one of only a handful in the coun try and I was delighted to be involved in the ap plication. I want to thank the Council’s Arts Office as well as the Community and Enterprise section for their instrumental work in securing funding and ensuring the Dome would be constructed in Somers Park.

“Castlerea Rose Festival has also shown an interest in making use of this facil ity, which was also impor tant in securing funds. The dome has also had lighting and power installed and will be available for free for groups across Roscom mon”.

Castlerea’s outdoor heated swimming pool and its Enterprise Hub are

other local success stories. Last summer proved to be a bumper season for the local pool while it is hoped to create a number of jobs at the Hub following the allocation of funding for ten food units.

“Further investment of €50,000 has also been secured for the outdoor swimming pool for minor capital works as well as €80,000 for the running costs for 2023. The pool experienced a record year this year with over 15,000 people visiting it from across the west of Ireland. I’m hoping works go ahead in 2023 to make the pool more inclusive and friendlier to those with disabilities and mobility issues,” Paschal said.

“Funding of €2.5 million has also been allocated for ten food units at The Enterprise Hub. I’m a member of Enterprise Castlerea under Chairman Benny O’Connell and those units have received huge interest already,” Paschal added.

“This is very positive and it is hoped that investment can create in excess of 100 jobs in the area. This is a

new departure in creating employment in the food sector here and it is open to anyone in the west of Ireland”.

As Roscommon County Council prepares to grant the Freedom of the County to the O’Rourke sisters from Tarmon this week, Castlerea has enjoyed its fair share of good news in recent years. Paschal be lieves it’s part of an overall upward curve.

“There are a lot of posi tives in Castlerea. Apart from those recent invest ments we also staged a very successful Castlerea Rose Festival this year and we are hoping to build on that in coming years by bringing big acts to the

town,” he said.

“Somers Park and the outdoor swimming pool are recreation areas for everyone in County Roscommon, not just Castlerea. People travelled up to 50 miles to enjoy the pool last summer and so it’s clear the investment in local amenities is paying off”.

Paschal paid tribute to local volunteers and businesspeople and all those who have put their shoulder to the wheel in recent years.

With the Christmas lights now illuminating the town and a number of projects coming online in 2023, the future looks very bright for Castlerea.

Major expansion and relocation of

‘The Cube’ in Roscommon town

Originally conceived by Roscommon County Council and the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) at their offices in Aras an Chontae, ‘The Cube’ FlexiSpace has recently expanded its facilities and has relocated to a brand new location on the Lanes boro Road in Roscommon town.

A statement from the lo cal authority read: “The Cube’s priority will be to provide substantial and modern ‘FlexiSpace’ ac commodation for existing and new companies and individuals with a focus on local business start-ups and social enterprises.

“Because of the initial fo cus on the FlexiSpace con cept, Roscommon County Development Fund have enlisted the support of Ro scommon Local Enterprise Office (LEO) who provide tailored, high level sup ports to entrepreneurs to

convert their innovative ideas into a commercial reality.

“The new facilities are likely to attract the many graduates the county pro duces, many of whom have to leave in search of work opportunities or to avail of the necessary modern infrastructure to assist them to establish their own businesses”.

Roscommon County Development Fund suc cessfully negotiated a long-term lease on the 19,000 sq. ft. Lanesboro Road building which has been vacant for a number of years. The building is now currently undergoing a complete fast track up dating and refurbishment.

This tried and tested ‘flex ispace’ concept will result in a number of desks be ing offered on an hourly or weekly basis, at very attractive rates. The Cube will be a blend of Co-

Climate Ready Academy to host upskilling session for local businesses

The Climate Ready Academy is hosting an open session for all Roscommon businesses interested in upskilling in the areas of sustainability and climate action in 2023.

According to a recent ESRI report, 75 per cent of businesses recognised the need to change to more sustainable activities but claimed they were strug gling to turn ambition into action.

To give businesses an insight into the type of courses and training available, the Climate Ready Academy is providing a free open session on the topics of sustainability management, biodiversity, waste and the circular economy.

The online event, hosted by broadcaster Ella Mc Sweeney, will take place on Wednesday next (14th) from 1 pm to 2 pm and is open to businesses of all sizes and across all sectors.

Further details on available courses and re-sourc es can be found on the Climate Ready Academy website: https://www.climatereadyacademy.ie/.

Working Hub and Com munity and Enterprise Working Hubs.

The new facility will also provide access to superfast 5g Broadband, IP teleph ony, meeting rooms and other support services.

The aim of the new work ing space is to further pro mote the concept of remote and flexible working, and encourage an environment of successful innovation and business initiative in the county.

The Cube will also offer an expanded and compre hensive base of supports to community and voluntary groups as well as offering enhanced health and wellbeing services to individu als and groups.

It is hoped the new ser vices will also assist Roscommon LEADER Partnership in association with Roscommon County Council’s Local Enter prise Office (LEO) with

strategic and innovation planning, EU programme delivery and international partnering needs.

Local radio station Ros FM were previously locat ed in a commercial prem ises in Roscommon town. They have become the first social enterprise to take up occupancy in ‘The Cube’.

Bernie Kearney, Ros FM Board Director said: “We looked at different premis es but even by downsizing, we found it would cost up €9,000 to €10,000 per year. This was not feasible for the station as a social enter prise dependant on fund ing. Roscommon County Development Fund of fered Ros FM office space comprising of two studios, an individual office with access to all services”.

According to Bernie, “After successfully secur ing funding for a manager and an additional worker through the Commu

nity Services Programme (CSP) for the radio sta tion, it was a huge relief to receive the news in recent times that they had been successful in securing oc cupancy in The Cube”.

“We have a lovely bright space sufficient to our

needs at an affordable rent. This is a huge offering for social enterprises and busi ness start-ups likes our selves to avail of in very strange times. It has al lowed us to remain viable and sustainable as a social enterprise”.

Roscommon County De velopment Fund are now offering these new lowcost facilities to social en terprises, companies and individuals. By next year, it expects to have all its flexispaces fully occupied.

Aurivo Dairy Ingredients celebrates 50 ‘Golden’ years of Ballaghaderreen site

Aurivo employees and Board members celebrated the Golden Anniversary of the Aurivo Dairy Ingredients facility in Ballaghad erreen, Roscommon on Friday last.

The site, which now employs 100 people, first opened as ‘Connacht Foods’ in 1972, producing skim milk powder and fat filled milk powder. Today, this site will process a large majority of Aurivo’s 520 million litres of milk.

Aurivo also unveiled the first phase of a new Evaporator build ing project, a €15 million invest ment, which when completed in April 2023 will significantly reduce the thermal energy needs of the site.

Speaking in Ballaghaderreen on Friday, Aurivo Chairman Raymond Barlow said: “Here we are 50 years into the jour ney of Aurivo supporting 1,000 dairy farming families across the region, a global food business exporting to 50 countries world wide. Not only does this site support dairy farming families, but also its 100 employees and significant other employment providing this site with support services such as transport, ware housing, ingredients, contractors and professional services”.

Aurivo Chief Executive Donal Tierney also said: “The Aurivo Dairy Ingredients facility in Bal laghaderreen is a wonderful ex ample of the growth and strength

of our company since we began. Sustainability is central to every element of the Ballaghaderreen facility; it starts on the farms and goes through every part of the business: from our suppliers to processes and to global custom ers in 50 countries.

“Over the next five years we plan to spend €40 million in capital expenditure, continuing our journey on innovation and process efficiency to further sup port our sustainability goals”.

Aurivo Dairy Ingredients longest serving team member (45 years) Michael McCarthy, cuts the cake at the 50th Anniversary celebrations at the site in Ballaghaderreen last Friday.

‘The Cube’ FlexiSpace has recently expanded its facilities and has relocated to a brand new location on the Lanesboro Road in Roscommon town.

Aurivo’s board of directors, management, and employees pictured at the 50th anniversary celebrations in Ballaghaderreen last Friday.

HAPPY

Still time to support Team Hope’s Shoebox Appeal!

If you want to really capture the spirit of Christmas and make a child smile, there is still time to take part in the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal and build a shoe box online.

Bringing joy and hope to children for whom poverty is an everyday reality in 13 countries across Africa and Eastern Europe is just a click away at www.teamhope.ie.

So, if you missed the deadline to fill a shoebox at home – don’t worry! Team Hope’s partners in their destination countries are ready and waiting to fill it on your behalf and make sure it goes where it is needed most.

As well as bringing joy to so many children, the Shoebox Appeal also sends hope by making sure these children know that people are thinking about them this Christmas.

Roscommon’s Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal Manager Jonathan Douglas said: “We know people are busy and are juggling so much at this time of year, so we are especially grateful to all those who have donated already. We just want to let people know – there’s still time to build a shoebox online and make a child smile this Christmas”.

You can donate a shoebox online at www.teamhope.ie until December 23rd 2022.

It’s been a GOOD week for…

England at the World Cup, with Gareth Southgate’s team defeating Senegal 3-0 to set up a quarter-final date with France on Saturday

Castlerea sisters and boxers of renown Aoife and Lisa O’Rourke, who are being

honoured today (Thursday) by Roscommon County Council when they receive the Freedom of Roscommon at a ceremony in Aras an Chontae

Fans of Sir Elton John, with confirmation that the superstar will headline the Glastonbury Festival next summer

Bono and his U2 colleagues, this after the Dublin supergroup were presented with one of America’s most prestigious cultural awards – a Kennedy Center Honor – recognising

their significant contribution to American culture

It’s been a BAD week for…

The footballers and support ers of Belgium and Germany, both of whom surprisingly ex ited the World Cup at the group stages (joined by Spain earlier this week)

Anyone who’s had enough of the Harry & Meghan circus, with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex embarking on yet an other PR offensive, this as they promote a Netflix docuseries, unimaginatively but predictably called ‘Harry and Meghan’

The reputation of Dublin city centre, this after a Sunday Times report painted a very negative picture of life in the capital at night, in a two-page spread headlined ‘This is Dub lin: creeps, scams, spiked drinks and fights’

“ The things people say…

Sinéad O’Connor (Irish singersongwriter, will turn 56 on Thursday)

Hailee Steinfeld (American actress and singer, will be 26 on Sunday)

Dame Judi Dench (British actress, turns 88 on Friday)

Nicki Minaj (Trinidadianborn rapper, celebrates 40th birthday on Thursday)

“Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall”

-Larry Wilde

With Glenda Gilson are Khaya Conboy-Thwabi, aged 6, Joshua Browne, aged 8, Daisy Browne, aged 6 and Maya Shimizu Ribeiro, aged 7 at the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal 2022 launch. The appeal aims to send 200,000 gift-filled shoeboxes directly to children facing poverty in 13 countries across Africa and Eastern Europe. To find out how to get involved see www.teamhope.ie and help to make a child smile.

Creggs RFC U-11s players were treated to a trip to the Sportsground last weekend for the match between Connacht and Italy side Benetton. Connacht players, including captain Jarrad Butler, were happy to pose for photographs with the youngsters, some of whom were attending their very first senior rugby match!

Pictured are Emma Connaughton, Hannah Murray and Aideen O’Brien at the Roscommon County Camogie Awards, held at the Abbey Hotel on Friday, 18th of November. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured are Emma Hough, Ciara Killeen and Shauna Walsh at the Roscommon County Camogie Awards, held at the Abbey Hotel on Friday, 18th of November. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured are Dermot Sutton, Declan Walsh, Niall Geraghty, Jimmy Hughes and Andy Hession at the Roscommon County Camogie Awards, held in the Abbey Hotel. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured are Bridie Egan, Marie Rogers, Adrian and Ann Hanly at the Roscommon County Camogie Awards, held at the Abbey Hotel on Friday, 18th of November. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

Launch of book on Roscommon’s Republican dead

The Roscommon Repub lican Graves and Monu ments committee had a very successful launch of their new book on Sunday, 4th of December last.

The book, entitled ‘Neath an Irish Sky, Roscom mon’s Republican Dead’, was launched by Tommy McKearney, Monaghan town.

In his address to the gath ering at the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown, Mr. McKearney lauded the committee on their pro duction of the book and said it was full of detailed information documenting how the victims of the War for Independence and Civ il War in County Roscom mon met their deaths.

Referencing the wellknown quote that “the sun never set on the British Empire”, Tommy added a quotation from Brendan Behan, who stated that “neither did the blood ever dry on the British Empire”. He added that some of the people who were killed in the county by crown forces died in the most harrowing and traumatic situations. He also detailed how the

book tells the story of the cold-blooded executions that took place during the Civil War. He said the con tents of the book are grip ping and that it should be the treasured possession of every household in Coun ty Roscommon.

The material for the book was researched and com piled by Henry Owens (Strokestown), while Tom

Flynn was responsible for most of the photography.

The book is an easy read with a series of short, de tailed stories of how each victim met their death. It includes a collection of interesting colour photo graphs. The book will be on sale in all bookshops and newsagents through out the county from this week.

Winter Wonders Exhibition in Athlone

Four artists who live and work in the Midlands will this week bring their Winter Wonders art exhibition to the beautiful surroundings of Savoury Fare at Fernhill Garden Centre, Athlone. Artists Jackie Eastwood, Tina Elliffe, Rosemarie Langtry and Dee McKiernan are de lighted to present works of art created with a variety of media in innovative and exciting ways.

As well as being a celebration of the rich diversity and talent which exists in the vibrant creative community of the Midlands, the Winter Wonders exhibition will also support the Children’s Pilgrimage Trust. Each of the four artists has donated one piece of work in support of this volunteer-led, registered charity. The Trust raises funds to take children and young people with additional needs on pilgrimage holidays to Lourdes and on holiday in Ireland. The proceeds from the sale of the four nominated paint ings will go directly to the Children’s Pilgrimage Trust. All of the art on display will be for sale.

Dee, Jackie, Rosemarie and Tina are grateful to the man agement and staff of Savoury Fare and Fernhill Garden Centre for helping to bring Winter Wonders to the public and for their ongoing support for the arts.

This exciting exhibition will take place in Savoury Fare, Fernhill Garden Centre, Ballymahon Road, Athlone and will run from 8th of December until January 2023. This is a free event and all are welcome.

Roscommon Solstice Choir in full voice at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Four Roads on Sunday evening. See social photos on opposite page. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the launch of ‘Roscommon’s Republican Dead’ at the Percy French Hotel on Sunday evening were Joe Donlon, Henry Owens (author or ‘Roscommon’s Republican Dead’), Tommy Joe Heneghan, and Thomas Flynn (photographer for the book) Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the launch of ‘Roscommon’s Republican Dead’ at the Percy French Hotel on Sunday evening were Caoimhe and Angela McKearney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the launch of ‘Roscommon’s Republican Dead’ at the Percy French Hotel on Sunday evening were John and Anne Carlos. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the launch of ‘Roscommon’s Republican Dead’ at the Percy French Hotel on Sunday evening were Tommy Flanagan and Anne Hagan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

GOING OUT

Pictured

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Orna and Cora Mulry, Madeline and Ella Rogerson. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Mary Murphy, John Murphy and Mary Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Mary Healy, Bernie Conlon, Michelle Donoghue and Patricia Donoghue. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Olivia Gacquin, Olivia Hynes, Celine Gacquin and Mary Moore. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Fr Francis Beirne and Senator Eugene Murphy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Carmel Hughes and Mary Rogerson. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Jimmy Hoban and Valerie Hynes. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Aine and Ellen Hynes.

Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Kate Flynn and Anita Bruneteau. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Mary Keegan and Joe Coyne. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Anna Rogerson and Mary Curley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Martina Fallon and Mary Flynn. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Solstice Choir performance hosted by Four Ladies GAA Club at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday evening were Tony and Helen McDonnell. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Comiskey calls for resolution to Sheep Improvement Scheme issues

IFA Sheep Chairman Kevin Co miskey said the Department of Agriculture must resolve issues with the terms and conditions of the new Sheep Improvement Scheme.

Following a meeting with Department officials, he said a number of issues require amendment for farmers to avoid unnecessary penalties.

The first year of the scheme will run from February 1st to December 31st 2023, with the remaining four years of the

scheme operating from January 1st to December 31st annually.

Kevin Comiskey said if scan ning takes place on farms in January next, this action would only be eligible for payment through the current scheme.

“Applicants who choose the action as part of the new scheme will be penalised on their firstyear payments because the ac tion did not take place within the new scheme year,” he said.

The IFA Sheep Chairman said the scheme year period should

run like the SWS, which would avoid penalising farmers for this action in year one.

“The requirement to nominate the years the genotyped/parent age verified in the scheme on the first year of application must not be a compliance require ment,” he said.

“Once a farmer meets the re quirement at any point within the term of the scheme it must be accepted as meeting the cri teria.

“The condition that each ram

ICSA Presidential Election to take place on December 14th

The contest to become the next national president of ICSA has begun with two candidates in the running following the con clusion of the formal nomina tion process.

The candidates are County Cork native Dermot Kelleher and Westmeath native Sean Mc Namara.

Current ICSA President, Der mot Kelleher is a suckler farmer from Inchigeela in West Cork. He is aiming to continue his tenure for another two years.

Mr. Kelleher previously served as chair of ICSA’s Suckler com mittee and as ICSA Munster Vice-President.

Sean McNamara is a sheep, beef, and suckler farmer from Lismacaffrey in Co. Westmeath. He currently holds the position of ICSA Sheep chair, a position he has held for four years.

The election will take place in the Midlands Park Hotel in

Over 600 animals were presented for sale on Thursday last and prices and trade are holding very well as we enter the final month of trading for 2022.

The weanling rings witnessed the bull calves making up to €4.07 a kilo while the heifer weanlings peaked at €4 a kilo. The heifer rings witnessed strong demand for the stores while the heavier lots made up to €2,160. The dry cow trade is holding well with good demand for both stores and heavier lots.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1,110 to €1,370. Springers made from €1,200 to €2,050, and runners made up to €890 for continental lots.

There were 240 bullocks on offer last Monday, with the top quality stores making up to €3.40 a kilo, and heavier lots making up to €2,230. Overall, an excellent trade was had with a good clearance taking place.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday 8th) with our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings.

Portlaoise on Wednesday, December 14th. Proceedings on the night will begin at 7 pm. Each candidate will make a presentation to the association’s

National Executive which will be followed by a Q & A session with the candidates. The vote will follow, with a result expected at 9 pm.

can only be claimed once over the lifetime of the scheme must be removed. Farmers common ly make decisions to replace rams for breeding purposes and if sold at a later stage, these rams must be eligible to meet the scheme criteria for the next farmer.

“For hill flocks, as it currently stands, a Scottish Blackface or a Cheviot ram needs to be DNA Sire verified by Sheep Ireland to be eligible for payment. All hill ram breeds must be included

in this action and specific hill sheep types removed from the terms and conditions”.

Mr. Comiskey said it was ex tremely important that new en trants be provided with a rolling reference period which accu rately reflects the level of activ ity on their farms.

“New entrants and existing farmers who do not apply to the scheme in the first year must also be accepted into the scheme if they decide to partake in subsequent years,” he said.

Mr. Comiskey said the DAFM must also recognise the challenges farmers will face with these specific issues and action must be taking im mediately to address them.

“The closing date for ap plications of Monday, De cember 19th next must be extended to ensure sufficient time is provided to farmers to select suitable actions on their farms due to the com plexities of the scheme,” he concluded.

Big variation in charges for ACRES plans unacceptable – IFA

IFA Rural Development

Chairman Michael Biggins has raised concerns surrounding the significant variation in the fees quoted for the completion of ACRES Farm Sustainability Plans.

“There is a huge difference in the charges being quoted to our members for the completion of their Farm Sustainability Plan for ACRES,” he said.

“While plans for the ACRES General approach average between €400-€600, it’s those in the co-operation areas which have sparked concerns. In some parts of the country, farmers are being quoted €300, while others are being charged €900. This is

simply unacceptable”.

In October, Teagasc released their price list for the completion of ACRES plans.

Costs for completion of a plan range from €320-€550, depending on farm size. For those who did not need a farm call out, the cost was lower. Costs associated with private planners vary across the country.

Michael Biggins said: “We understand that there is a significant body of work to be undertaken when drawing up plans for farmers, and this can take up to a day to complete between desk and field

assessments. However, farm-ers should not be charged above and beyond the going rate”.

Farmers have been urged to request a full breakdown of what the total cost entails, so that they are fully aware of any additional aspects, such as VAT or travel expenses.

“While we acknowledge that the majority of planners are charging reasonable prices that reflect the level of work involved in formulating a plan, some prices are excessive and will take away a large chunk of money that farmers will receive from taking part in the scheme,” he concluded.

Bullocks: Lm 470kgs €1600, Ch 480kgs €1590, Ch 475kgs €1550, Ch 530kgs €1700, Ch 520kgs €1660, Ch 510kgs €1600, Ch 595kgs €1910, Lm 575kgs €1800, Ch 610kgs €1850, Ch 695kgs €2230, Ch 670kgs €2060.

ICSA presidential election candidate Dermot Kelleher.

ICSA presidential election candidate Sean McNamara.

Cullinan: EU carbon plan unlikely to generate income for farmers

IFA President Tim Cul linan has said that the EU Commission’s proposal on carbon farming, which was published recently, is unlikely to provide a framework that will gen erate any significant extra income for Irish farmers.

“While it’s early days, it appears there will not be any serious income-gen erating capacity from the Commission proposal, un less a farmer has a consid erable land bank,” he said.

The IFA President said the EU Commission’s pro

posal was flawed in that it gives no recognition to carbon already stored on farms.

“Farms that have seques tered increased carbon over the years through hedgerows or other meth ods will get no credit for

maintaining these, and continuing to store carbon.

The Commission’s plan is to acknowledge only car bon removed each year,” he said.

“This document is very much a framework one, with lots of detail yet to be fleshed out. But it is clear that all the carbon built up on farms over the years is going to be ignored. This is wrong.

“Under the proposed framework there is no re ward for reducing emis sions on farm, it is ex tremely disappointing that the huge efforts farmers are currently undertak ing in this area will not be recognised. Acknowledge ment will only be given for removals through seques tration.

“It is also important that the EU gives a clear com

mitment that any Euro pean or national funding to incentivise carbon remov als will come from a new budget line, rather than from the Common Agri cultural Policy”.

Cullinan said the process of certification could in volve the gathering of very sensitive information.

“There will need to be very strong safeguards in place around all this data,” he said.

“Overall, the so called ‘carbon farming’ model proposed by the Commis sion needs a lot more flesh ing out before a full assess ment can be made.

“However, our initial view is that it is very disap pointing and more likely to be a ‘white elephant’ than a future ‘cash cow’ as pre sented by Minister Ryan and others,” he concluded.

IFA and Bord Gáis Energy launch new solar energy partnership

The Irish Farmers As sociation (IFA) and Bord Gáis Energy, building on their long-standing rela tionship, have recently launched a new partner ship aimed at offering so lar solutions to Irish farm ers.

Together, IFA and Bord Gáis Energy identified, based on IFA member feedback, that farmers across all sectors were seeking a solution around renewable energy due to rising input costs along with the added environ mental benefits.

The launch follows a pi lot project undertaken by IFA and Bord Gáis Energy

to establish the commer cial feasibility of the in stallation of roof top solar technology on Irish farms.

The pilot worked closely with farmers from differ ent sectors, sizes and ge ographies and clearly and objectively established the benefits of solar for all farmers involved.

At the launch, James Kelly, IFA’s Director of Organisation said: “Our partnership with Bord Gáis Energy will provide a reliable and affordable solar solution. As the larg est energy services busi ness in Ireland, Bord Gáis Energy has the technical and engineering capacity

There was a very large entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s gen eral sale, with a strong trade for heifers. We had a smaller show ing of bullocks, which averaged at €2.34 per kilo. Heifers fetched from an average of €2.77 per kilo up to €3.55 per kilo, and dry cows made an average of €2.27 per kilo up to €2.98 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

This Friday (9th), we will have our special sale of bullocks and general sale of heifers and dry cows.

There was a good entry of topquality weanlings on offer at our sale held on Tuesday evening last (6th), with a good trade for both bulls and heifers. Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €2.85

to deliver high-class solar solutions for farmers.

“Together, we also have the ability to provide a reliable customer experi ence with ongoing sup port. Each farm is unique and we will provide a comprehensive renewa bles offering for farmers including a detailed as sessment of the viability, design and installation of a rooftop solar. We will also provide guidance on avail able supports, expected system performance, pay back periods and ongoing support in the form of data analysis to help farmers on this journey”.

Teresa Purtill, Director

of Services and Solutions, Bord Gáis Energy added: “Over the next five years, Bord Gáis Energy is com mitted to becoming the market leading net-zero solutions provider in Ire land and to helping all of our customers transition affordably to a lower-car bon future.

“Working with our longterm partner IFA, we’re extremely proud to offer affordable and innovative solar solutions for Irish farmers helping them decarbonise their energy us age across rural Ireland.

“We look forward to developing out further re newable solutions for Irish

farmers, both for their businesses and homes, as we continue the journey to net zero”.

Martin Stapleton, Chair of IFA Member Services said: “The current condi tions combined with ris ing energy prices, makes it feasible for all farmers across all sectors from north to south to avail of solar. This is a new tech nology that farmers are coming to terms with. An installation by IFA and Bord Gáis Energy offers a renewables solution from a trusted and credible part ner – something that we know farmers really need right now”.

Friday, December 9th at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks

56 pens of bullocks on offer.

Also Dry Cows and Heifers

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

Friday, December 16th at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks and Heifers

Also Dry Cows (LAST SALE FOR 2022)

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, 12th December - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Tuesday, December 13th at 4 p.m.

Final Sale of Weanlings

Bookings accepted up until 5p.m. on Thursday, 8th Dec - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Lambs & Cast Ewes

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

Final Sale Wednesday, December 21st - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Friday Evening 9th December at 7 pm

Liscullane

Charollais Pedigree Registered In Lamb Sale

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

final

of wean lings for the year is on Tuesday next (13th) at 4 pm. Bookings will be accepted up to 5 pm today (Thursday, December 8th).

Sample prices for dry cows: Lim X 745kgs €2220, Char X 860kgs €2400, Lim X 805kgs €2280, Lim X 800kgs €2200, Lim X 800kgs €2160, Lim X 760kgs €2060, Char X 685kgs €1920, Lim X 705kgs €1750, Lim X 685kgs €1920.

Heifers: Lim X 475kgs €1600, Lim X 535kgs €1800, Lim X 580kgs €1930, Lim X 705kgs €2340, Char X 760kgs €2390,

Char X 720kgs €2350, Char X 700kgs €2090, Lim X 735kgs €2100, Char X 755kgs €2260, Char X 765kgs €2300, Lim X 725kgs €2240, Lim X 575kgs €1790, Lim X 505kgs €1760, Char X 525kgs €1680, Char X 535kgs €1660, Lim X 440kgs €1480, Lim X 455kgs €1400, Char X 435kgs €1390, BBX 350kgs €1050.

Weanling heifers: Char X 302kgs €1100 - €3.64 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €1090 - €3.46 per kilo, Char X 280kgs €960 - €3.43 per kilo, Char X 275kgs €880 - €3.20 per kilo, Char X 255kgs €860 - €3.44 per kilo, Lim X 245kgs €840 - €3.43 per kilo, BAC 255kgs €780 - €3.06 per kilo, Char X 300kgs €910 - €2.96 per kilo.

Weanling bulls: Char X 295kgs

€1160 - €3.93 per kilo, Char X 380kgs €1490 - €3.92 per kilo, Lim X 300kgs €1090 - €3.63 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €1210 - €3.84 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €1090 - €3.46 per kilo, Char X 290kgs €1000 - €3.45 per kilo, Char X 270kgs €950 - €3.52 per kilo, Char X 245kgs €880 - €3.59 per kilo, Lim X 290kgs €990€3.41 per kilo, Char X 220kgs €760 - €3.45 per kilo.

Finished lambs: 50.8kgs €151, 53.1kgs €151, 55.3kgs €151, 60kgs €150, 53kgs €150, 51.2kgs €148, 49.8kgs €148, 48.5kgs €146, 49.8kgs €145, 49kgs €144, 48.2kgs €140, 46.7kgs €138.

Store lambs: 41.9kgs €113, 41.5kgs €111, 39.8kgs €110, 39.8kgs €109, 36.8kgs €100, 37kgs €94, 36.2kgs €90, 36.6kgs €82, 37.5kgs €75.

and viewings invited Services - Cattle Crush & Pen, Mains Water & ESB. Possible Lot Sale Lot 1 - Entire - €770,000 Lot 2 - 12.3 acres - €125,000 Lot 3 - 47.4 acres - €425,000 Lot 4 - Main Residence - €190,000 Lot 5 Cottage - €30,000 Legal: Dillon Leech, Ballyhaunis, (094) 9630004 The auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon CHY 12629

Four Mile House, Co Roscommon CHY 12629 Tel: 090 66 29844

Tel: 090 66 29844

FULL TIME MONDAY –

RE/MAX Team Earley close sale on Rahara farmlands

Cormac Sheehy of RE/MAX Team Earley re cently closed the sale of approximately 59 acres of prime agricutural lands, located at Caltra, Rahara, Co. Roscommon (comprised in folios RN21321 and RN22983).

The lands were top quality agricultural lands set out in one block and could have been sold in lots if market interest dictated, with the benefit of ap proximately 15.86 entitlements. The property is located just ten minutes from Roscommon town

• Responsible

and fifteen minutes from Athlone in a renowned farming area.

Essential Criteria:

delivering and managing the daily operations of the Centre in order to ensure a safe,

environment for children, in line with all regulatory requirements with the support of the

• Ability to facilitate the education and care of all children within the centre with a child centred approach

• Responsible for developing, delivering and managing the daily operations of the Centre in order to ensure a safe, developmentally appropriate environment for children, in line with all regulatory requirements with the support of the management team.

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

• Minimum QQI/Fetac level 6 in ECCE – (Level 7+ an advantage)

RE/MAX Team Earley are currently looking for similar farms in all areas for cash buyers. For fur ther details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email teamear ley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. Contact auctioneer Cormac directly on 086-3519492 or auctioneer Cathal on 086-1409158.

• Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times

Four Mile House, Co Roscommon CHY 12629

• Ability to facilitate the education and care of all children within the centre with a child centred approach.

• Ability to manage finances and project future budget planning

• Minimum QQI/Fetac level 6 in ECCE – (Level 7+ an advantage).

• Ability to execute all company policies, procedures, health and safety/ risk assessments as stipulated in the Childcare Regulations

• Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times.

• Ability to manage finances and project future budget planning.

• Strong knowledge of Child Protection Legislation and implementation

• Strong organisational skills

• Have a full understanding off all guidelines as set out by TUSLA

• Ability to execute all company policies, procedures, health and safety/ risk assessments as stipulated in the Childcare Regulations.

• Strong knowledge of Child Protection Legislation and implementation.

• A minimum of three years in the early years sector and at least one year of these in a supervisory role within the sector Communicate effectively in a clear and professional manner at all times as a team leader

• Strong organisational skills.

• Have a full understanding off all guidelines as set out by TUSLA.

Ability to build positive relationships with parents and families

written communication

• A minimum of three years in the early years sector and at least one year of these in a supervisory role within the sector.

Safety procedures Ability to work

• Communicate effectively in a clear and professional manner at all times.

own initiative, model best practice and willing to work flexible hours

Strokestown cottage new to the market with

RE/MAX Team Earley

This week, Cathal Meares of RE/MAX Team Earley is pre senting to the market a quaint, two-bedroomed, cottage-style residence, located at Lettreen, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (F42 HK28)

This two-bedroomed, detached residence stands on a site of ap proximately 0.54 acres, with breath-taking views of the roll ing countryside. This property

is situated approximately 3.5km from Strokestown and all ame nities, such as primary and sec ondary schools, shops, pubs and restaurants.

Accommodation briefly com prises of a main living room area, kitchen, conservatory, util ity room, two bedrooms, one bathroom and outbuildings. The BER rating for this prop erty is D1. The auctioneer

highly recommends viewing appointments for this charming, ready-to-go property.

For further details or to arrange anappointment to view, please contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. Contact auctioneer Cathal directly on 086-1409158.

• Experience as a team leader.

• Ability to build positive relationships with parents and families.

• Excellent oral and written communication.

• Knowledge in Health & Safety procedures.

• Ability to work on own initiative, model best practice and willing to work flexible hours.

• Garda Vetting required.

Preferred Criteria:

• QQI 7 or higher in Early Years Education.

• Experience working on the HIVE.

• An understanding of Core Funding and other Government Schemes.

• Experience in grant writing.

• Experience in Policy and procedure writing.

• Experience in staff scheduling.

• Experience in recruitment and supervision of staff.

• Experience in government inspections.

Shortlisting may apply. Canvassing will disqualify.

Childcare

is

ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Application is being made to Roscommon County Council for permission to Revise Site Development Layout, from that previously granted planning permission under Ref No’s 19/348 & 21/455.

The Revisions will include the following: Relocate Creche facility with 2 No x 2 Bed Apartments over, to revised location by the removal of the Apartment Block containing Unit No’s 75 to 78 inclusive and re-position adjacent Apartment Block containing Unit No’s 71 to 74 inclusive to facilitate this change.

Provide 2 No Semi Detached Dwellings Blocks containing 4 No x 4 Bed Units in the previous location of the Creche Facility and the 2 No Apartments over and reposition adjacent dwelling No’s 25 to 32 inclusive to provide for an additional 1 No Single Dwelling x 4 Bed Unit, thus providing a total of 79 No Dwelling Units to the Development Connect all buildings to be relocated and the additional 1 No Detached Dwelling, to the previously approved Site Ancillary Services at Monksland, Athlone.

Signed: Pat Donoghue

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We Andrea Crumbley and Rory Bruen wish to apply for planning permission for our cottage at Edgewater Farm, Portnahinch, Co. Roscommon for a larger front porch, new rear extension comprising a kitchen, dining, living and bedroom with alterations to our existing cottage, a waste water treatment system with a secondary raised tertiary treatment system to EPA 2021 code of practice and associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Gerry Hynes Architect MRIAI

White Cottage, Doon, Strokestown Co. Roscommon 087 2527290

W: www.gerryhynesarchitect.com

E: gerryhynes01@gmail.com

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Cathy Martin, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish existing dwelling house and outbuildings, and construct replacement dwelling house, new domestic garage, install upgraded onsite wastewater treatment system and all associated site development works at Keadew West Td, Keadue, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. F52 VH95

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application by the Planning Authority.

Signed:

PLANNINGS PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Michael Coyne intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission to construct (i) cattle underpasses with effluent storage tanks and farm roadway (ii) cattle underpasses with effluent storage tanks and all ancillary site works at Lisdaulan, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Aidan Kelly (ADPS) Agricultural Design & Planning Services Phone: 085 7466211 Web; www.adps.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

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

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects

Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We intend to apply for planning permission to retain constructed extensions to the rear and side of dwellinghouse and a septic tank as such works are different to that granted by permission with reference no. 12/513 at Grallagh Beg, The Plains, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee, not exceeding the reason-able cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and submissions or observations in relation to the ap-plication can be made to the planning authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee, within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Helen Balfe & Maura Healy.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is being sought to retain site layout as constructed which is different to that granted under permission with reference no 9917(a) and also to retain a shed at the rear of existing dwelling-house at Vesnoy, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee, not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and submissions or observations in relation to the ap-plication can be made to the planning authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee, within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Teresa Furey

I, Noel O’ Hara, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for the construction of a dwelling house and detached garage together with the installation of a wastewater treatment system, percolation area, new site entrance and all associated site works at Knockroe, Croghan, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed: Noel O’ Hara

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Ronan Kildea intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to erect a dwelling house, a domestic garage, to install a septic tank with a percolation area and to construct all ancillary site works to facilitate same at Corraree and Ballygatta, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Roscommon.

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

Signed: Ronan Kildea

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Elaine Healy intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct two storey dwelling, domestic garage, effluent waste water treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Toberkeagh, Athleague, 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.

Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

Qualified registered architect with experience in domestic new build and extensions, commercial, agricultural and building reports. also Planning Applications and Ancillary Certifier for larger projects. Gerry Hynes M.R.I.A.I. White Cottage, Doon, Strokestown, Roscommon F42 DF10 Phone: 087 2527290 Web: www.gerryhyne sarchitect.com Email: gerryhynes01@ gmail.com

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED

< TO

CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange ref erences,

Michael Hennessy Advanced Planning & Design Services Ltd, 15A North West Business & Technology Park, Castlecarra Road, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim Tel: 086 1701549

Registered Architect

Gerry Hynes MRIAI

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

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA 091 380900 | 087 9818153

Mountbellew, Co. Galway info@mhla.ie www.mhla.ie

FAMILY

NOTICES

THANKSGIVINGS

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE

For

Credit Control Officer

POSITION: TELLER

CONTRACT: Permanent

urgent need...

REPORTING TO: CEO/Supervisor

Roscommon Credit Union Ltd wishes to appoint a full-time Credit Control Officer to assist management with the Credit Control functions of the Credit Union.

Key Responsibilities:

This role will be based in our Ballaghaderreen and/or Roscommon branches

Job Description: Skilled Stone Masons to do restoration on Old Stone Houses

Job Location: Roundstone, Co. Galway but can vary depending on job location Hourly rate €22.22 - 36 hours per week Please reply to: silveira911@gmail.com

Klassic Cleaners

ARE HIRING

• Main duties will include Ironing and working on our roller iron.

• Good english preferable as you will be dealing with customers.

To fulfil the role of Credit Control Officer who will be responsible for managing the Credit Control function of the Credit Union, and ensuring that the Credit Union complies with all statutory and regulatory requirements in this regard.

Credit Control responsibilities include:

Assist management and Board of Directors in the performance of their duties

The successful candidate will be responsible for carrying out a range of operational and administrative duties that will contribute to the effective running of the day to day operations of the credit union.

• Contribute to the ongoing development of appropriate credit control policies, systems, procedures, practices and implement them

• Monitor and contact members in arrears and recovery of bad debts in line with agreed strategy

• Making recommendations regarding account re-scheduling & write offs

• Interview and assist members in arrears

Key Responsibilities:

• Be familiar with the Personal Insolvency Act 2012

• Advise members on responsible financial management and budgeting

We are looking to hire a new part time flexible staff member to add to our team!

• We are a busy launderette/dry cleaners and are looking for a confident, motivated person!!

• Attention to detail is a must…….

• Experience is not essential as training will be provided.

• You will also be covering holidays and the busy summer season.

CV’s

to be emailed to: klasscleans@gmail.com Or call 090 6625995 and we’ll call you back. We are looking for a reliable team of SKILLED STONE MASONS to do restoration on Old Stone Houses

SITUATIONS VACANT

< KIND RELIABLE LADY WANTED: To help care for elderly woman in her own home during the day and evening. No night or weekend work. Good English is es sential and some experience would be an advantage. Creggs/Glenamaddy area. Tel: 089 4249214 call after 6pm.

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

• Attend and participate in meetings

Organise monthly meetings with Credit Control Committee

• Communicate with all Solicitors and Collection Agencies

Attend Court Hearings

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

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

• Produce written monthly and annual reports

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

Carrying out loan book reviews

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

• Assist at the counter with member transactions at busy periods if required

Person Requirements – Experience, Education, Skills, and Abilities Required:

A formal qualification in data protection would be a distinct advantage and/or

• Ideally three or more years’ experience preferably in a Credit Union or other financial services organisation and performing a similar role

• A knowledge and understanding of the Credit Union sector is preferable

Strong Inter-personal, communication and strong IT skills

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

The role is 35 hours per week

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

Closing date: Please send your cover letter and C.V. to ceo@roscommoncu.ie with ref: CC2022 Closing date for applications is Friday, 23rd December 2022 Please contact ceo@roscommoncu.ie for a copy of our Recruitment Privacy Notice Roscommon Credit Union Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

• Complete other duties as required by management

• Undertake relevant training as deemed necessary

The successful candidate must have the following attributes, experience and qualification:

POSITION:

< HOME CARE REQUIRED: For elderly lady in Donamon area. Week days Monday to Friday, day time hours 10.00 am - 5.00 pm. Please contact: 087 7829164

TELLER

•

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

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

• Complete other duties as required by management

• Undertake relevant training as deemed necessary

MULLEN

Larry

Tonlagee, Roscommon

18th Anniversary - 12th December 2022 (Who died on the 12th December 2004) R.I.P.

We also remember with great sadness Padraig, who died on 20th June 1984.

Rest In Peace.

They say that memories are golden well maybe that is true, but we never wanted memories we only wanted you.

Sadly missed by Kathleen and all the family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Four-Mile-House on Sunday, 11th December at 11am.

BREHENY

Patrick (Pat)

Glanduff,

REILLY Paddy

Aughmaghree, Kilteevan (12th Anniversary)

FEELEY (née Campbell)

Marie

Ardsallagh, Roscommon

Who passed away on 6th March 2022

CONNAUGHTON

Theresa

Athleague and Brideswell (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Patrick (Pat), who died on 15th December 2016

A silent thought, a quiet prayer, for someone special, in God’s care.

Sadly missed by his sister Kathleen and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 11th December at 11.30am.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

CARROLL

Mary (Mai)

Kilnalossett, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon

Who God called home on 7th April 2022

In loving memory of Paddy who died on 11th December 2010

Special memories keep you near, as time unfolds another year. Each of us in our own way, have special thoughts of you today. Will those who think of him today a little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and remembered always by his wife Phil and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevin on Sunday, 11th December at 10am.

MURRAY

Kieran

Athleague, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary)

The family of the late Marie Feeley would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised and supported us at the time of our sad loss. To all who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, sent mass cards and sympathy messages, expressed condolences on RIP.ie or in some other way, we wish to extend our gratitude to you.

Thank you to all the staff of Roscommon University Hospital and Fearna Manor, Tarmon, Castlerea for your devoted care of Marie. Thank you to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for your dedicated and sympathetic attention to the funeral arrangements and to the gravediggers.

To the clergy of the Sacred Heart Church Roscommon we thank you for your kindness to Marie and to our family. We also wish to thank the Abbey Hotel for the excellent catering after the funeral.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude and appreciation.

Marie’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, 5th March 2023 at 9am.

GERAGHTY

Mary Margaret

High Bog, Rahara, Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on the 8th December 2021

In loving memory of Theresa, who passed away on 4th December 2021.

She is not gone from us but gone before us.

Sadly missed and always remembered by all her family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday 10th December at 7pm

KENNY Maureen

Lisnaville, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Maureen who passed away on 9th December 2017

GALLAGHER Phil

11, Convent Court, Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

On the first anniversary of Mam’s death, Mary and Vera would like you to remember our mother Phil with fondness. She was a wonderful lady a much missed mother and grandmother.

We wish to take this opportunity to thank all who helped us to care for Mam in her home. To her wonderful Carers, your kindness and gentleness will never be forgotten. Thank you to Dr. Morris for your understanding and compassion. To the Palliative Care Team for the tenderness and respect shown to Mam and us in her final days.

Thank you to Mam’s neighbours and all who visited her, she always enjoyed your visits.

We wish to acknowledge Fr. Douglas, thank you for your visits and celebrating Mam’s Funeral Mass and also to Glennon Undertakers for your professionalism. Thank you to all who sympathised with us, attended Mam’s Funeral Mass, wrote lovely letters, sent Mass cards and left online condolences.

May perpetual light shine upon you Mam and may you rest in eternal peace with Dad and all your family.

Phil’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, December 11th in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 11.30am.

BRENNAN Micheál

Mount Mary, Ballygar, Co. Galway

We, the family of the late Mary Margaret Geraghty, Jimmy, Padraig, Ann and extended family wish to express our sincere thanks and heartfelt appreciation to all those who sympathised and supported us in our recent bereavement.

Thanks to all who attended the Funeral Mass and sent mass cards.

A special thank you to the doctors and nurses, care assistants and staff of St. Joseph’s and Our Lady’s Ward, Sacred Heart Hospital.

Thank you for your kindness, help and compassion shown to Mary during her long stay in the Sacred Heart Hospital.

In loving memory of our dear sister Mai whose birthday occurs on 12th December .

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

Loved and missed by her sisters Imelda and Patricia and her nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grand nephews (here and USA)

Who passed away on the 2nd December 2016

In loving memory of Kieran Your life was love and labour, your love for your family true. You did your best for all of us we will always remember you.

Sadly missed by his loving wife Kathleen and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Friday, 9th December at 7pm.

A kind word of thanks to Fr. Sean Beirne. Our heartful thanks to Fr. Michael Donnelly for your support, kind words and for celebrating Mary’s Funeral Mass. Thanks to Deacon Willie Gacquin for prayers in the Funeral Home.

To Aileen O’Connor for her beautiful singing and music, thank you.

To Sean Connaughton for preparing Mary’s final resting place, thank you.

To Enda and Ita McHugh a special thanks for your professionalism, attention to detail and care throughout the Funeral Service.

Mary’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Rahara Church, on Sunday, 11th December at 10am.

There are no words to tell you what losing you has meant, but now each day brings memories of happy years we spent. You’d want us all to smile again and that’s just what we do everytime we reminisce, with loving thoughts of you.

Sadly missed and always remembered by her loving family and extended family.

Who passed away on the 8th December 2017 (5th Anniversary)

Loving memories never die, as years roll on and days pass by. In our hearts a memory is kept, of ones we loved and will never forget.

Always remembered by your loving family Ita, Tomás and Kate and extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday, 9th December at 7.30pm.

In loving memory of Richard, who died on 8th December 2014

R.I.P.

A silent thought a quiet prayer for you, dear Richard in God’s care.

Deep in our hearts your memory is kept too dearly loved to ever forget.

So sadly missed and always remembered by his wife Margaret, daughter Belinda and families.

Anniversary Mass in Castlecoote Church on Sunday, 11th December at 11.30am.

Kiltoom, Athlone. (6th Anniversary)

GUNNING Richard Athleague, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

REGAN (née Carey)

May

Ishlawn, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon and formerly of Kilmurray, Martinstown, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick (2nd Anniversary)

GERAGHTY

Myra

Kilmore, Athleague, Roscommon

Who passed away on 6th December 2010 (12th Anniversary)

KIERNAN

LOHAN Seamus

Tulsk, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

In loving Memory of May who died on the 10th December 2020.

Two tired eyes are sleeping, two willing hands are still, the one who worked so hard for us, is resting at God’s will. Your life was love and labour, your love for your family true, you did your best for all of us, we will always remember you. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.

So dear Wife, Mam, Grandmother, Sister and Aunt Rest In Peace and thanks for all you’ve done, we pray that God has given you, the crown you’ve truly won.

Forever loved and missed by her loving husband Noel, sons John, Bartley, Noel and Nathy, daughter Mary; grandchildren Seán, Kevin, Conor, Aisling, Jack, Ciarán, Luke, Oisín, Katelyn, AnnaMai and Noel, daughtersin-law Patricia, Colette and Joanne, sisters Nora (Kelly), Eileen (Sullivan), Breda (Tierney), brother Andy and their families.

2nd Anniversary Mass will be in St. Nathy’s Cathedral, Ballaghaderreen on Saturday, 10th of December at 6pm.

Your presence we miss Your memory we treasure.

Forever in our thoughts Bernie and Mike.

KEMMITT Sadie

(nee Keane)

Rathmoyle, Castlerea (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Sadie who passed away on the 3rd December 2019.

TIME

Time cannot steal the treasures that we carry in our hearts, nor ever dim the shining thoughts our cherished past imparts.

For the memories of the ones we loved still cast a gentle glow to grace our days and light our paths, wherever we may go.

Sandy, you are always loved and forever missed by all your family and friends.

8th Anniversary Mass will take place on Friday, December 9th at 7.30pm in Sacred Heart Church, Kilglass.

KEENAN

Nancy

In loving memory of Seamus, who passed away on 8th December 2021

God called your name so softly, that only you could hear, and no one heard the footsteps, of angels drawing near. The golden gates stood open, God saw you needed rest, His garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best. Sadly missed and remembered, his loving wife Mary.

We miss you from your fireside chair, your loving smile and gentle air, your vacant place no one can fill, we miss you Dad and always will. Each time we look at your picture, you seem to smile and say, don’t be sad but courage take and love each other for my sake. Our lips cannot speak how we love him, our hearts cannot tell what to say, but God only knows how we miss him in our home that is lonely today. We never fail to pray for you, we never cease to care, we wish we could go home again and find you waiting there. We will always remember our whole lives through, the last words we had with you. Loved and missed every day, Caroline and James.

GRANDAD

Your always had a smile to share, a laugh, a joke and time to care, a wonderful nature, warm and true, those are the memories we have of you.

Sadly missed by her brother, sisters and extended family and friends.

Masses offered.

GLEESON James

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Ballymacfrane, Donamon, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

Your’re thought about so often, in loving memory, for you were all the special things, a Grandad ought to be. We’ve all missed you being here since you went away,

Remembered with love, his cherished grandchildren Ella, Jane, Noah, Reuben, Joshua and Jude.

Your life was love and labour, your love for your family true you did your best for all of us, we will always remember you.

Fondly remembered on your first anniversary by your brothers and sisters, nephews, nieces and extended families.

Seamus’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in the Church of St’s Eithne and Fidelma, Tulsk on Sunday, 11th December at 11.30am.

JUDGE

Mary (nee Conlon)

An Graig, Athleague (Formerly Runnabracken, Donamon) (5th Anniversary)

Who passed away on 13th December 2017

MOTHER MARY

I come to Thee, my Mother, to lay before Thy feet, my fears, my hopes, my longings, my bitter hours and sweat.

O take them Mother Mary and place them by God’s throne, your hands will give them value, they’re worthless on their own.

As I kneel before you, speak to your Son for me, though poor and small my offering, I know ‘tis dear to thee, for you your Son at Cana, changed water into wine, the needs of bride and bridegroom, were small compared to mine.

And so, my Mother Mary, I lay before Thy feet, my fears, my hopes, my longings, my bitter hours and sweat.

Sadly missed by her son Martin and daughters.

Mary’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish on Sunday, 11th December at 11am.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

NESTOR

Stephen and Bridget

Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Who died 3rd January 1999 (23rd Anniversary)

Remembering

Who died 1st October 2010 (12th Anniversary)

Leixlip, Co. Kildare

Who died 20th April 2020

Memories are precious, they don’t fade away.

We think of you always, especially today.

There’s no tomorrows that we can share, but yesterdays memories will always be there.

May the winds of love blow softly, and whisper for you to hear, we will always love and miss you James and wish that you were here.

Loved and remembered by Mam, Dad, Jude and Sinéad.

Fondly remembered by her sons Sean, Noel, Padraic, Gerry, Liam, daughtersin-law Frances, Carmel, Marie, Catherine, AnnMarie, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in Clooneycolgan Church on Sunday, 11th December at 9.30am.

LYNCH

Tenderly we treasure the past, memories that will always last, when we cease to think of you, will be when God has called us too.

Sadly misssed by all the family.

A Memorial Mass will be held in St. Bridget’s Church, Curraghboy on Friday, 9th December 2022 at 7pm.

They

Always remembered by your loving family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s

You gave us years of happiness then sorrow came with tears you left us lovely memories we will treasure through the years.

Sandra

Ruane, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our darling daughter and sister Sandy who passed away on the 12th December, 2014.

also their beloved daughter Anne O’Brien (nee Nestor)

Eamon and Kathleen Motepark, Roscommon (23rd and 10th Anniversaries)

are deep in our memories, precious they stay, no passing of time, can take them away.

Church, Knockcroghery on Monday, 12th December at 7pm.

Remembering Myra with love and affection

SCANLON

GATELY (née Morrissey)

Mary Bredagh, Dysart (9th Anniversary)

D’ALTON

Clooneybeirne, Roscommon

MONTH’S MIND MASS

Kiltiernan, Kilcolgan, Co. Galway

formerly of Rosmoylan, Creggs, Co. Roscommon.

Rest in Peace.

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday.

And when old times we do recall, it’s then we miss ye most of all.

Lovingly remembered by Michael, Mamie, Annie, Rosaleen, Eileen and extended family.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 10th December 2022 at 7pm. in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloverhill.

COYLE

Remembered with love and affection by John J, John, Margaret, Madonna, sister Delia, grandchildren and family.

Anniversary Mass will be held at a later date.

O’CONNOR Gerry

Late of Cyprus Villas and Galway Road, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary9th December 2017)

The death occurred of Paul D’Alton of Clooneybeirne, Roscommon Town, on November 14th, 2022. Son of the late Don D’Alton, he will be greatly missed by his loving mother Carmel Kelly Palmer, stepmother Anne D’Alton, the Kelly and D’Alton families, and his many friends.

Paul, a well-known journalist and writer (both in Ireland and abroad) over many decades, is widely mourned and will be greatly missed.

Paul’s mother Carmel Kelly Palmer, stepmother Anne D’Alton, and the Kelly and D’Alton families, would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported and sympathised with them on their recent sad loss.

A special thank you to Paul’s relatives, neighbours and diverse circle of friends, including from the media industry, for their sympathy, help and support.

Thank you to all who attended the Removal and Funeral Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon, and the Funeral Blessing and burial at Derrane Cemetery. Thank you also to all who sent Mass cards, sympathy cards, flowers, etc. and offered their condolences online.

These expressions of sympathy and support, and the kind tributes paid to Paul, are greatly appreciated by the Kelly and D’Alton families.

We, the family of the late Martin Joe Keane, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all who sympathised and supported us in our great loss.

We are extremely grateful to our wonderful families and many friends for the love and support they afforded us at this difficult time.

To all who called to our home, attended the wake, sent mass cards, shared condolence messages on RIP.ie, attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Crematorium. Those who travelled long distances at home and abroad to show support and kindness, we thank you most sincerely.

Thank you to Dr. Maccon Keane and team in the Galway Clinic and to GP Maria Hannigan and her team in Kinvara.

Our thanks to the Palliative Care Team at the Galway Hospice and our Community Nurse, Christina, who looked after Martin Joe so well, in his last few weeks. Thank you to Ian Clarke, Clarkes Pharmacy, Kilcolgan, for all his help and kindness.

On this, the first anniversary of George’s sudden and untimely passing, we, the Coyle family would like to sincerely thank all those who have supported us in the past year. We were greatly touched by the thoughtful letters, mass cards, online condolences, flowers and phone calls that we received. Each message was read and each message brought comfort to us.

We wish to acknowledge everyone who visited our home, who stood on the route of George’s final journey and attended the funeral mass and burial. To the gravediggers who prepared George’s final resting place, thank you. A special thank you to Fr. Beirne for his consoling words, touching ceremony and for all his support. To Liam Gately and Marion Killeen for their beautiful music and hymns. The professionalism and kindness of Michael Dempsey was as always seamless. To the community who prepared refreshments in Dysart Community Centre after the service, we thank you.

Since George died, we have been overwhelmed by the level of kindness shown to us both at the time of the funeral but also throughout the past twelve months. This might be something small, a message or phone call, but it has helped us get through what has been a very sad time in our lives.

Finally, we wish to acknowledge George for being the exceptional person that he was. He enriched many people’s lives through his professional services, his community spirit and simply his generosity of character. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather who is missed every day.

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

Gone from us that smiling face, the cheerful pleasant ways, the heart that won so many friends, in bygone, happy days. A life made beautiful by kindly deeds, a helping hand for others’ needs, to a beautiful life, comes a happy end, he died as he lived, everyone’s friend.

George’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Friday, 16th December at 7pm.

A day that’s filled with sadness, returns to us today to mark the day you closed you eyes and quietly slipped away.

You had a smile for everyone you had a heart of gold you left the sweetest memories, this world could ever hold.

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

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

We sent a dove to Heaven with a parcel on its wings, be careful how you open it for its full of beautiful things.

Inside are a million kisses, wrapped up in a million hugs to tell you that we miss you and give you all our love.

Loved and never forgotten by his heartbroken parents, daughters, brothers, sister, sisters-in-law, aunts, uncle, nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Friday, 9th December at 7pm.

A heartfelt thanks to Fr. Kevin Fallon for officiating at the funeral services. Thanks also to Pat Smyth and Smyth Funeral Directors, for their professionalism, care and sensitivity. Thank you to those who prepared Paul’s final resting place.

Our appreciation to Dr Brendan Crosbie, Castle Street Surgery, Roscommon for all the great medical care provided to Paul. Thank you also to David Hynes and staff of Hynes’ Pharmacy for their assistance and support.

Once again, a sincere and heartfelt thank you to the people of Roscommon and other areas for the overwhelming and very touching support given to us at this time of great loss.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, Paul’s family trust you will accept this acknowledgement as a token of their deep appreciation and gratitude.

May Paul Rest In Peace.

A special thank you to Fr. Hugh Clifford and celebrant Fr. Barry Horan for Martin Joe’s final Mass. Our thanks to Martin Joe’s niece Francine, nephews Finbar and Colm for their beautiful music and to Orlaith Keane for her beautiful singing.

Thank you to Conal Quinn, celebrant at the Crematorium for his help and kindness.

Thank you to Tremane GAA, Creggs GAA and Annaghdown GAA for your Guards of Honour on a very wet night in Kinvara. It was much appreciated. Thank you to Michael Keogh of Corless’ Undertakers for all his guidance and professionalism through a very difficult time.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, we hope that you accept this acknowledgment as a token of our deep gratitude.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered as a mark of thanksgiving for all your intentions.

Martin Joe’s Month’s Mind Mass will be held on Saturday the 10th of December in St. Joseph’s Church, Kinvara at 7pm.

KEANE

Martin Joe

and

Who passed away November 4th, 2022

Paul

Who passed away on November 14, 2022

John, Mary Anne & Sean Emlaghroyan, Donamon

In loving memory of our dear parents and brother whose anniversaries occur: John, 18th August 1979, Mary Anne, 6th December 2016 and Sean, 29th January 1997.

Mary Anne John Sean

George

Cummeen, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 11th November 2021. (1st Anniversary)

Sports PEOPLE

Roscommon senior camo gie champions St. Domi nic’s are set to face off against Wicklow cham pions Knockananna for a place in this year’s AIB All-Ireland Junior Camo gie Championship Final.

All roads lead to Cor ralstown Kinnegad this Saturday as the Knock croghery club, who this year regained the county title they last won in 2019, look to reach an All-Ire land decider.

Manager Noel White, who paid tribute to his backroom team which in cludes trainer Joe Dolan, says there is a “quiet confidence” in the camp ahead of Saturday’s semifinal.

“Everyone’s in good spirits and we’re looking forward to it now,” he told People Sport this week.

“There was a bit of a lull after the county final and we had to refocus to find that extra 10 per cent in terms of fitness. But we’re back there now and qui

etly confident for Satur day”.

The Wicklow town na tive is familiar with Satur day’s opponents and said he expects a tough physi cal battle.

“I would have spent a lot of my youth not too far from Knockananna and we’ve been to watch them during their Leinster campaign. They’re a seri ous outfit with big players right through the team. They’re strong and fit but I back my players to match them,” he said.

“It’s been a huge year for the club from the under age ranks right up to sen ior level and we’re look ing forward to another big day out and a big perfor mance”.

St. Dominic’s, who were competitive against Castlegar in the Connacht Intermediate Champion ship, have recently wel comed back Julie Healy and Caroline Dowling to full fitness. Both are in line to start Saturday’s last four clash.

Tickets for the fixture

must be purchased in ad vance at www.universe. com, search ‘AIB All-Ire land Club Championship semi-finals.

St. Dominic’s have also called for donations to the club’s GoFundMe cam paign to raise money for the senior camogie team’s All-Ireland adventure. €5,935 has been raised so far as part of the campaign to support both the senior camogie and intermediate football teams ahead of their respective Champi onship campaigns.

CBS lose out in junior final

Roscommon CBS were left to rue a poor first-half performance as they went down 1-14 to 0-11 to St. Gerald’s, Castlebar in the Connacht Colleges’ Junior A Football Championship Final at Bekan on Mon day.

St. Gerald’s ran up a 1-8 to 0-1 lead by the half-time break before CBS showed a marked improvement in the second half, outscoring the Mayo school by 0-10 to 0-6.

Unfortunately however, the goals needed to ignite a remarkable comeback never arrived and St. Gerald’s were able to keep the Roscommon school at arm’s length to claim the provincial title.

Maura Dervin represents Ireland

Roscommon Athletics Club would like to con gratulate coach Maura Dervin on representing Ireland in the Masters British and Irish Cross Country Champion ships in Santry recently.

Although coaching locally, Maura is a long-standing member of Mullingar Harriers since 1990. Maura was 5th in her individual age category and led her team home to earn bronze medal position. This led to the overall victory for Ireland in the Five Nations event.

Maura continues to be an inspiration to Ro scommon AC’s juve nile members.

St. Dominic’s dethroned Athleague earlier this year to regain the Roscommon Senior Camogie title they last won in 2019. Pic: Mick McCormack

< DAN DOONER

Horses for Courses

Horseracing this weekend starts this afternoon (Thurs day) at Powerstown Park in Clonmel starting at 12.05 pm. Tomorrow evening (Fri day), the action is under lights on the all-weather at Dundalk, first race at 5 pm.

Saturday’s action is at Proudstown Park outside Navan with racing away at 12 pm. Sunday sees two meetings one at Cork outside Mallow off at 12.15 pm fea turing two Grade 2 races, the EBF Mares Novice Chase and the Hilly Way Chase. There is also a Grade 3 race on the card, the Stayers Novice Hur dle. Punchestown features The Grade 1 John Durkan Punch estown Chase and is away at 12.30 pm.

Cross channel, Hexham fell to the cold spell yesterday (Wednesday). Warwick and Newcastle have inspections this morning (Thursday) and Bangor is subject to an early morning inspection tomorrow (Friday) but both Cheltenham and Doncaster have placed covers in an attempt to beat Jack Frost.

In Ireland, there is a course inspection this morning in Clonmel at 8 am and Navan, Cork and Punchestown are monitoring the situation. If go

ing racing this weekend check before leaving home that the meeting is on, including pointto-points.

The racing on ITV 4 starts early this week with coverage of four races from Cheltenham and one from Bangor tomor row and on Saturday there are seven races on ITV with four from Cheltenham and three from Doncaster. On Sunday, RTÉ 1 is covering racing in Punchestown.

Racing Preview

There are eight horses set to go to post for the Grade 1 John Durkan Memorial Chase at Punchestown on Sunday. They are headed by Galopin Des Champ from the WP Mullins yard at 2/5 with Joseph O’Brien’s Fakir D’Oudairies and Gordon El liott’s Conflated both at 5/1 in the betting. Grade 1 winning Galopin Des Champ should win, extending Mullins’ grip on the race to five-in-a-row, and if not Stattler not a bad second string for the yard e/w.

Racing Review

Cross channel on Satur day, Emmet Mullins’ Noble Yeats, this year’s Grand Na tional winner, won the Grade 2 Beecher Chase over the stand

ard fences at Aintree

On Sunday, all good things came to an end as Honey suckle lost her unbeaten run of 16 in the Grade 1 Hatton’s Grace at Fairyhouse. Henry de Bromhead’s super mare could only manage to finish third to Gordon Elliott’s Teaphoo, with Jack Kennedy aboard, at 20/1 and WP Mullins’ Klassical Dream beaten a neck and 2½l.

Elliott had earlier won the Grade 1 Drinmore Novice Chase with Mighty Potter and Jack Kennedy at 3/1 from Mullins’ Gaillard Du Mensil by 4½l with Banbridge another 14l back in third. El liott also trained the favourite Three Stripe Life which pulled up after making a mistake at the eighth fence when Davy Russell lost his irons.

In the other Grade 1 on the card, the Royal Bond Novice Hurdle, the unbeaten Marine Nationale got up in the clos ing strides to beat Elliott’s Irish Point and Mullins’ Ashroe Di amond by a head and 4l. Barry Connell’s 5-Y-O with claimer Michael O’Sullivan in the sad dle denied Elliott and Kennedy a Grade 1 treble. The favourite, Champ Kiely, also trained by

Fleming retains Kearney Cup

Though there may have been three years between competi tions due to Covid-19, Sean Fleming was back to defend his 2019 Kearney Cup win last Sunday in Flanagan’s of Castle plunkett.

Fleming defeated Jimmy Owens in his board final and Wayne Harries in the semis to set up a decider against Gerry Rhattigan, which he won con vincingly 5-1 to seal back-toback titles.

A big thank you to everyone who helped set up and run the tournament, Flanagan’s for

hosting and providing food on the night, and everyone who supported the raffle in aid of Croí.

Meanwhile, the Hannon’s Hotel-sponsored Roscommon Darts League continued last weekend.

Holly Tree defeated Flana gan’s 5-3 and that match fea tured two maximums from Pa draig Kearney as well as 14 and 16-dart legs from Les Rawson.

Spell’s were also 5-3 winners over An Bothar Rua where the highlights included 13 and 16-dart legs from Rory Hunt,

maximums from James Shar key and Sean Fleming, and a 134 checkout from Daniel Mc Dermott.

Cosy Bar, meanwhile, were rather more comfortable in their 6-2 win over Dalton’s.

This weekend’s fixtures: Fla nagan’s v Dalton’s; McDer mott’s v Cosy Bar; Hollywood v Spell’s; Village Inn v Holly Tree; An Bothar Rua Bye.

Pictured right: Kearney Cup winner, Sean Fleming, pictured with tournament organiser Padraig Kearney.

Mullins, finished a neck fur ther back in fourth.

Elliott and Jordan Gainford won the Grade B Porters town Chase when Punitive, 9/2, beat stablemate Fakiera, 4/1f, by 2 ½ l. Jamie Codd completed an Elliott four-timer in the bumper on Better Days Ahead which beat the Mullins trained favourite Chapeau De Soleil. Elliott has laid down the gauntlet to champion train er Willie Mullins after a very profitable weekend at Fairy house where he enjoyed a tre ble on Saturday with Minella Crooner, Landrake and Dr Bravo, his outsider of three, he ran in the bumper.

Willie Mullins produced his four-time bumper win ner Facile Vega, daughter of Quevega, in the second divi sion of the maiden hurdle on Saturday and he has wintered well winning by 14l and 6l from An Mhi and Wild Dollar at prohibitive odds of 1/9.

Racing News

Owners of Group One-win ning mare Princess Zoe could go hurdling with her after fail ing to reach expectations as a wild card entry at Tattersalls December Mares Sales. The

by Tom Red

Short putts

Athlone

Athlone’s AGM took place last Friday with the follow ing officers elected for 2023: Club President Cathryn Mannion; Chairperson Gerry McInerney; Treasurer Mi chael Cuddy; Club Captains Kathleen McDonnell and Michael McBrearty.

T. Carmody won the AWGS on December 1st with 22 points while the Women’s Weekly competition was won by Celeste O’Regan with 24.

7-Y-O won the 2020 Prix du Cadran and was runner-up to Subjectivist in the 2021 Ascot Gold Cup. In her only race outside of Group One this year, she won the Group 3 Sagaro at Ascot from Quickthorn last April.

Former trainer Frank Dunne has died at the age of 79. He is the only Irish trainer to win the Japan Cup at To kyo Racecourse with the mare Stanerra in 1983. In 1983, she also won the Brigadier Gerard Stakes at Sandown, both the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes and the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot, and the Joe McGrath Stakes, now the Irish Cham pion Stakes, at Leopardstown. RIP.

Point-to-Point News

On Sunday, there are three meetings this weekend, all in the south. They race at Borris House in Co. Carlow with 171 horses entered, at Tattersalls opposite Fairyhouse race course with 161 entries and, at Boulta in Co. Cork where there are 134 horses entered. All three meetings will start an hour earlier than the 12 pm scheduled start, at 11 am, due to the large entries.

Meanwhile, the ’97 Club Christmas Hamper made a welcome return post-Covid with Anne O’Sullivan beat ing Kathleen McDonnell on the back nine to claim the top prize.

Carrick

David Clarke won the Gents’ 9-hole competition played over week ending Novem ber 27th with 23 points while Paul Kelleher topped the leaderboard last week with 21 points.

The Gents’ AGM took place last Sunday with the follow ing officers elected ahead of 2023: Captain Brendan Boyle; Vice-Captain Paul Reid; Secretary Chris Lowe; Competitions Secretary Paul Kelleher; Handicap Secre tary David McDermott; PRO Oliver Curran; Commit tee members Philip Martin. Frank Duffy. Keith Tighe, Marc McDermott, Tom McGuinness, and Albert Hogg. The Men’s club nomi nated Oliver Curran for the position of club President.

The Parent club AGM takes place at the clubhouse on December 18th at 7 pm and all members are invited to attend.

Roscommon

James Reilly won the Men’s 15-hole competition on No vember 27th with 38 points while Una Gleeson won the Ladies’ 9-hole competition with 20 points.

Des Bruen was the overall winner of the Senior Men’s competition while the Sen ior Ladies’ was won by H. Earley.

A reminder to all members that we are hosting a Christ mas social evening in the clubhouse on Sunday, De cember 11th at 6 pm. Mulled wine and food will be served on the evening. An enjoyable evening in store for everyone so hopefully as many mem bers as possible can make this festive evening.

Due to popular demand, our green fee offer is back again this year. If you are looking for a Christmas present idea then this offer could be for you. We have four green fees for €70. Contact Phil MurrayO’Brien on 087-2536000 for more information.

(News from local golf clubs)

Teahupoo, near side, and Honeysuckle jump a hurdle on Sunday.

Facile Vega and Paul Townend.

Creggs RFC Report THE GAIN LINE

Creggs come up short in Carrick

Creggs Seconds fell just short in a tightly contested J1C League game at Carrick-on-Shannon on Sun day.

Despite missing a number of regulars, the visitors battled to the end and were unlucky to lose against the physically stronger opponents.

Creggs trailed 15-7 at half-time with Thomas Featherston crossing over and Ronan Dowd adding the conversion.

Featherston scored another excellent try midway through the second half when he finished off a sweeping backline move after an incisive break by Kevin Gavin. Ronan Dowd’s conversion reduced the deficit to a single point at 15-14 but the home team responded by regaining possession and forc ing Creggs onto the backfoot with some powerful surges by their large pack of forwards.

Creggs tackled heroically but eventually Carrick crossed for a vital try and also added a close-range penalty to open a significant nine point lead head ing into the final ten minutes.

Undaunted, Creggs hit back immediately when man of the match, Featherston, scored a wonder ful third try, leaving a succession of tacklers in his trail as he powered through from inside his own half to touch down under the Carrick posts. Ronan Dowd’s conversion left just two points between the teams but Carrick held out to claim the win.

Creggs face Tuam away this weekend and they can take a lot of encouragement from this perfor mance.

Youth Rugby

The U-11s took part in a Blitz at Creggs last Sat urday before making their way to the Sportground for the meeting of Connacht and Italian side Benet ton. The Connacht players stood in for photos and autographs with the Creggs players after the game, which was a great experience for them meeting their heroes. Some were attending a senior match for the first time and are looking forward to the next opportunity.

Boys U-14s: Creggs U-14s travelled to Balli-na on Sunday last and while they put in a huge effort, Ballina were just too strong on the day.

The hosts led three tries to one at half-time with Conor Muldoon crossing for Creggs. Ballina ex tended their lead early in the second half before Daniel Nerney scored two tries to reduce the deficit. Unfortunately, that was as good as it got for Creggs, who went down 40-17.

Girls U-14s: The U-14 Girls recovered from a 12-5 half-time deficit at home to Claremorris last

Buccaneers RFC

Saturday to run out 19-17 winners.

The winning try came from Myah Madden follow ing a much improved second-half performance.

Boys U-13s: The U-13s were away to Loughrea in the league last Saturday and took a commanding 26-0 lead into the half-time break.

Loughrea, to their credit, upped their performance in a much more competitive second half, but Creggs stuck to their task, running out 38-19 winners.

Boys U-15s Maroon: The Maroon team were suf fered an away defeat to Claremorris in their Division Two match last weekend.

This team features some excellent players who just need to train together more often to realise their po tential at this level.

Girls U-18s: It proved to be a good weekend for the Girls U-18 teams. The Maroon team enjoyed a 34-10 win over Gort/Monivea last Friday.

Tries from Shauna McDermott (2) and Katie O’Connor and a conversion from Shauna Walsh gave Creggs a 17-5 half-time lead.

The

The White team were convincing winners over Claremorris in their Division One clash on Sunday. Scores from Eabha Dowd, Siofra Hession, Roisin Maher, Megan Donohoe and Jennifer Morris, Sarah Purcell (2), and hattrick of tries from Merisa Kiripati gave the visitors the win.

Mini Rugby

Over 200 children attended a Blitz at Creggs last Saturday morning where Buccaneers and Galwe gians were the visitors.

Teams from U-7s to U-11s enjoyed a great day of rugby and it was great to see supporters on the ter race during games and clocking up their steps on the walkway!

The Boys’ U-12 team had travelled to Galway for the Connacht Blitz in St. Mary’s.

Buccs stay top with Banbridge win

Energia All-Ireland League Division

1B: Buccaneers RFC 44 Banbridge

13. Buccaneers maintained their lead at the top of the Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B following their 44-13 victo ry over Banbridge at Dubarry Park, Ath lone, on Saturday. Buccs ran in six tries against the Ulster side but this contest, sponsored by Ganly’s of Athlone, was much closer than the scoreline would suggest, with another strong finish by the Pirates reaping three final quarter tries.

JP Fanagan Leinster U-20 Premier Division Two: Terenure College 34 Buccaneers RFC 17. Terenure College maintained their grip on the top of the JP Fanagan Leinster U-20 League Premier Two with a 34-17 victory over Bucca neers at Lakelands Park on a cold Sun day afternoon. The hosts proved too hot for Buccs who were missing Cian Mc Cann and Ruaidhri Fallon, scoring five tries to the visitors two. The Pirates slip to third following this setback.

Cawley Cup Plate: Buccaneers Sec onds 19 Tuam 21. Tuam continue to hold an Indian sign over Buccaneers Seconds this season as they wrestled the Cawley Cup Plate from the midlanders’

grip at a wet and windy Creggs on Sun day evening where the Co. Galway side came from behind to win 21-19.

Buccs end 2022 in Naas

Buccaneers complete the first half of this season’s Energia All-Ireland League away to Naas on Saturday when they will be striving to remain top of the league table ahead of the festive break. Kick-off at Forenaughts outside the Co. Kildare town is 2.30 pm.

Feast of rugby at Dubarry Park

There are three games down for decision at Dubarry Park this Sunday: The U-20s take on UCD in the JP Fanagan Leinster U-20 Premier League Division Two at 2 pm; Buccaneers Seconds have a vital Junior 1A game against Monivea at 2.30 pm; and Buccaneers Thirds face Galwe gians in a Connacht Junior 2A joust at 2.30 pm.

U-15s win in Gort

Buccaneers ‘Yellow’ squad travelled to Gort on Saturday to play an earlier postponed fixture against the local team.

C’mon The Town

SFAI Weekend…

There are two games taking place this week-end in the SFAI Trophy.

On Saturday, our U-12 team welcomes our near neighbours St. John’s Athletic to Lisnamult for a 2 pm kickoff. At the same time, our U-14 side hosts St. John’s of Sligo. These competitions have been an enjoyable experience for the players and coaches. They enable our players to develop further against teams from other regions. Best of luck lads. Sincere thanks for the support, generosity, and ef forts of our parents throughout the sea-son.

Helping the Hospice…

This season, one of our sponsors decided to feature the Hospice logo on a set of jerseys. The U-14 team will continue to wear the kit on Sunday next. This was a kind gesture from our sponsor and to keep this good will going, please support the Hospice this Christmas, if you can. By helping the Hospice, you are helping others.

World Cup…

The festival of football on TV is great to watch but nothing compares to the efforts, enjoyment, energy, enthusiasm, and honesty of our young players who are the grassroots of the game and the future of our society.

Did you know?

The Qatari national football team physiotherapist is Irish. Richie Partridge is from Dublin and played for Liverpool before becoming first team physio at Anfield.

Wise Words…

‘You miss 100% of the shots that you don’t take’Wayne Gretzky

Keep in touch…

Check out the ‘News’ section of our website (ro scommontownyouthsoccer.ie) and our Insta gram, Facebook and Twitter pages for regular updates. Our email address is: in-fo@roscommon townyouthsoccer.ie.

Soccer results

Norio’s RDFL Premier Division

Kilkerrin United 0 Moore United 4 St. John’s Athletic 1 Ballinasloe Town 3 RDFL First Division

Cloonfad United 4 Dunmore Town 0 RDFL Second Division

Rahara Rovers 1 St. John’s Athletic B 1 RDFL Women’s Premier Division

Ballaghaderren WFC 3 Cam Celtic 4

Ballinasloe Town 0 Boyle Celtic 3 St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United 0 Castlerea Celt-ic 5

Shiven Rovers 2 Colemanstown United 0 RDFL Reserve League

Moore United 2 Shiven Rovers 1 Cloonfad United 0 Moore United 3

Shiven Rovers 4 Ballinagare Manor United 4

Fixtures

Friday, December 9th

Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup First Round

Ballymoe FC v Cam Celtic. 7.30 pm

RDFL Women’s Premier Division

Shiven Rovers v Ballinasloe Town. 7.30 pm

Saturday, December 10th

Norio’s RDFL Premier Division

Kilkerrin United v St. John’s Athletic. 7 pm

Sunday, December 11th

Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup First Round

Cloonfad United v Rahara Rovers. 11 am

Ballinasloe Town B v Dunmore Town B. 11 am St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United v Dunmore Town. 2 pm

Buccs were into their stride early doors and were well ahead at the half-time break playing a nicely balanced game. Good handling and incisive tackling made life difficult for the home team. After

the break the Buccs boys piled on the pressure with new players Jack Kelly, Oisin McLoughlin and scrum-half Fionn O’Brien look ing particularly good and earning Buccs a comprehensive win.

Joe Concannon RDFL Women’s Challenge Cup Preliminary Round

St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United v Kilkerrin Unit-ed. 11 am

Norio’s RDFL Premier Division

Ballaghaderreen FC v Ballinasloe Town. 2 pm

Skyvalley Rovers v Boyle Celtic. 2 pm

second half was almost a mirror image of the first in terms of scoring with Creggs racking up an other 17 points thanks to tries from Isabelle Quinn (2) and Shauna Walsh.

Creggs U-14 Girls recovered from a 12-5 half-time deficit to defeat Claremorris 19-17 last Saturday. Myah Madden is pictured scoring a try.

Pictured is Josh O’Connor, Audi Athlone Man of the Match in the Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B clash between Buccaneers and Banbridge, with three young Buccaneers fans Eoghan Silke, Jack Gaynor and Ben Gilligan.

In association with the

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

THE SPORTS STUDIO

Occasional sporting musings with Paul Healy

EIGHT teams standing…ONE great prize

< PAUL HEALY

Don’t let nostalgia cloud your judgement (I often do)…this has been an excellent World Cup.

Judged purely in footballing terms (as opposed to revisiting the scandalous decision to stage the tournament in Qatar), World Cup 2022 has been entertaining and memorable.

The group stages have been widely hailed as amongst the most exciting ever. There were some very good games, with lots of late drama.

While many of the established teams made it through to the last 16, there were shock exits and

surprise breakthroughs. For those of us of a cer tain age, the idea of the business end of the World Cup not featuring Germany is bizarre. But they went out early. So too did Belgium, who never got out of first gear. Ultimately, a star-sprinkled team met that most formidable of opponents: Fa ther Time.

One of the big early talking points of the tour nament was the remarkably long stoppage time periods. This is a welcome development, FIFA having insisted that referees add on all time ‘lost’ on goal celebrations, delays at throw-ins, slow substitutions, etc. The extra-long added time pe

riods – often running to ten minutes or more per half – punish gamesmanship, are by definition fair…and add a great sense of drama.

The ‘Round of 16’ began last weekend, and has never been less than entertaining and intriguing. At times, it has been absolutely gripping: Argentina v Australia was a thriller. Japan took Croatia to a penalty shootout, Morocco stunned Spain, Portu gal hit six against Switzerland. France, led by their gifted man of destiny, Kylian Mbappé, are in great shape as they bid to win back-to-back World Cups. Brazil also turned on the style, and both England and the Netherlands are going along nicely.

Why argue? But it has to be…Messi

< PAUL HEALY

It’s an interesting aspect of the psyche of sports fans that we get bogged down in ‘Best ever’ debates. I know they can be fun, but they tend to turn out to be un necessarily polarising.

After all, why can’t we just relish the amazing feats of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo instead of – as some fanatics do – pushing a ‘one or the other’ narrative?

Peerless Paul and the passing years

My first thought on reading online that last Sunday was Paul McGrath’s 63rd birthday was…how quickly the years have passed! It really doesn’t seem that long since we were purring over this Rolls Royce of footballers. But it’s actually heading for 33 years since he bunkered Baggio… Once a few ‘Happy birthday’ posts went up on Twitter, the tributes poured in. They were warm and affectionate. John Ludden tweeted: ‘Happy birthday to the best Man chester United defender I’ve seen in my life’. Presumably for the benefit of younger people, Ben Durham sought to summarise how good McGrath was: ‘Imagine a cross between Rio (Ferdinand) and (Jaap) Stam’.

A fond memory for me is of how majestic McGrath still was in his mid-30s, at a time when his body was ravaged by injuries and alcohol intake. That he was so brilliant in the twilight of his career – winning man of the match status week in, week out – is a measure of what a world class player Paul McGrath was. Famously, he never seemed to appreciate how good he was, or how much love people felt for him. I think as the years have gone by, he’s begun to realise it. He will always be an Irish football icon.

For many years, the respective support ers of Messi and Ronaldo have made the case for their favourite as being the best player in the world. Sometimes, the advocates are so passionate, they end up criticising the other player!

As it happens, I don’t see it as much of a contest, insofar that I’d have Messi well above Ronaldo! But that doesn’t stop me admiring the latter as a sensational play er over two decades. Undoubtedly the duo have been the two defining players of

the past 20 years. It has been an unbeliev able privilege to witness their feats. Against Australia in a World Cup thriller on Saturday, Messi was yet again a joy to watch. He is the best player I have seen since Diego Maradona, and probably even better than his fellow Argentinian genius. Meanwhile, even if Messi wins the World Cup with Argentina, the passing of the mantle of ‘World’s greatest player’ is a process that has begun. The recipient will be Kylian Mbappé.

Quarter-finals this weekend

Croatia v Brazil: Croatia have considerable pedigree, having reached the final in 2018, and Brazil could have an off-day, but the ex pectation is that the dancing Brazilians will shimmy into the semi-finals.

Netherlands v Argentina: Louis van Gaal is well capable of successfully plotting an upset, and I have doubts about Argentina, but my heart – and my head, just about – says Messi can lead Argentina into the last four.

Morocco v Portugal: Morocco, notwith standing that they’ve been on a great run over the past couple of years, are the surprise quar ter-finalists, having beaten Spain on penal ties. Normally you’d give them every chance against Portugal, but if this is an open game, the Portuguese – who are buoyed after hitting six against Switzerland – will progress.

England v France: A mouth-watering game in prospect. England have a chance. If they can close down Kylian Mbappé, they could knock the favourites out, either via their own flair, or on penalties. But the safer bet is on the defending world champions winning. Af ter all, can Mbappé – the player of the tourna ment so far – actually be curtailed?

Local clubs did us proud….

mon title, and can look back on a memorable

As

of content ment

the exciting reality that senior football awaits for the Knock croghery club in the New Year.

< PAUL HEALY

It was a busy weekend on the GAA front. Galway’s Shane Walsh was in electrifying form for Kilmacud Crokes, scoring 0-9 in their win over Westmeath’s The Downs in the Leinster Club Football Champi onship final. Meanwhile, Strokestown’s conquerors

Moycullen defeated Fergal O’Donnell’s Tourle strane to win their first ever Connacht SFC title. Locally, there was disappointment for Roscom mon clubs St Dominic’s and St Ronan’s, who lost provincial finals to Dunmore MacHales and Clifden respectively. St Ronan’s came close to winning the Roscom

county and provincial campaign with great pride.

for St Dominic’s, disappointment at Saturday’s defeat will surely give way to a winter

at their county final triumph and

Clifden’s John O’Brien and Fergal Guihen of St Ronan’s in action during the AIB Connacht JFC Club Final between St Ronan’s and Clifden in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Classy Clifden conquer Connacht!

Gallant St Ronan’s overpowered at the Hyde

AIB Connacht Junior Football Championship Final

Clifden 1-16 St Ronan’s 0-10

< ELLIOT GREALY

A strong Clifden side overcame St. Ronan’s with relative ease in this Connacht JFC final at Dr. Hyde Park on Saturday afternoon. It was a disap pointing season finale for the North Roscommon men who were hoping to win their first ever Con nacht Junior Football title. Despite a gallant effort,

they were well beaten on the day.

After Emmet Moran opened the scoring for Clifden, Gary O’Daly set tled any early nerves for the Ronan’s men by firing over a score after Jason Glynn won possession in midfield with a fine catch.

Daly was being kept under close surveillance by the Clifden full-back line as they doubled up on him.

Indeed Daly was the only man inside for long peri ods of the opening half, with Ronan’s deploying 14 men behind the ball to try to curtail the Clifden attack.

The Galway side re

mained patient, bidding to play the match on their own terms. Full-forward John O’Brien scored the next two points. John Keavney converted a free for St. Ronan’s, but their opponents then moved up a gear. Henry O’Toole found Enda Conneely with a high ball in the 13th minute, the latter making no mistake and scoring the game’s only goal. It put Clifden five points clear.

Sean Black and Ger Gib bons added to that lead, and St. Ronan’s were now struggling to stay in touch.

To their credit, they stead ied the ship through an other Gary O’Daly point,

this time from a mark. Gibbons and Keavney ex changed frees before the interval to leave the away side with a very healthy 1-9 to 0-4 lead.

St. Ronan’s emerged for the second half look ing to get a foothold in this game. Wing-back Liam Killoran opened the second-half scoring be fore a sublime score from Alan Benson gave the Roscommon team muchneeded confidence. How ever, Clifden responded through substitute Ruairi King who made an instant impact with a 37th minute score. Ger Gibbons got in on the scoring act when he added two frees along with a long-range point from play. He and Henry O’Toole were causing the St. Ronan’s defence un told damage.

Alan Benson got his second point of the day, a score which was followed by another free from the boot of John Keavney. Ruairi King doubled his tally with another welltaken point with just five minutes remaining. John Keavney continued his successful day on freetaking duties, adding two more late on.

It was a case of too lit tle too late for St. Ronan’s. Clifden claimed their first Connacht Junior Football title at the third time of asking, after losing in the finals of 2006 and 2015. Their supporters had been treated to a brilliant dis play in Dr. Hyde Park. St Ronan’s had given it everything, and can look back on their season with a sense of considerable pride and satisfaction.

St. Ronan’s: R. Gallagher; M. McNama, E. Flynn, F. Guihen; L. Killoran (0-1), E. Noone, T. Guihen; J. Glynn, T. McManus; M. Healy, J. Keavney (0-5, all frees), K. Healy; R. Kelly, A. Benson (0-2), G. O’Daly (0-2, 1 mark).

Subs: B. McNama for Healy (HT), D. McTier nan for T. Guihen (43’), J. Earley for Kelly (44’), C. McLoughlin for Killoran (52’), M. Gaffney for F. Guihen (54’).

Clifden: I. Staunton; G. King, S. Sweeney (0-1, 45’), N. Murray; S. Black (0-1), J. Mannion, C. Con nolly; C. Joyce (0-1), M. O’Toole; C. Coneys, G. Gibbons (0-6, 4 frees), H. O’Toole; E. Conneely (1-1), J. O’Brien (0-2),

E. Moran (0-1). Subs: R. King (0-2) for Connolly (37’), C. O’Donnell (0-1, free) for O’Brien (50’), P. Cullen for E. Moran (54’). Referee: J. Glavey.

Stat Attack

Wides: St Ronan’s 3; Clifden 5

Red cards: 0

Black cards: 0

Yellow cards: Clifden 1 (E. Moran, 31 mins); St Ronan’s 2 (B. McNama, 58 mins)

Man of the Match: Henry O’Toole (Clifden)

O’Toole was named to start at wing-back, but the late inclusion of Colin Connolly meant he could be at the heart of the attack for the Clifden men. He set up six of Clifden’s scores and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself. Ger Gibbons was a class act at centre-forward but for his killer passing and decisionmaking I give the nod to O’ Toole. Gary O’Daly and Alan Benson were best on the day for St Ronan’s.

The St Ronan’s team and subs pictured at Dr Hyde Park on Saturday for the AIB Connacht JFC Club Final against Clifden. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Ronan Kelly pictured facing off against Clifden defenders during at the AIB Connacht JFC Club Final between St Ronan’s and Clifden in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Jason Glynn of St Ronan’s evades Shane Sweeney of Clifden during the Connacht GAA Club Junior Final in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Dunmore deny Dominic’s

Gilleran applauds players after successful 2022

ability to find scores a touch more easily than St Dominic’s could was the marginal difference that counted as the Roscommon champions came up just short in their quest for IFC provin cial glory last weekend.

St Dominic’s’ manager Tomás Gilleran acknowledged that Dunmore MacHales had a slight edge in that key area. “We got some great scores, really stylish scores, but they were able to respond that little bit easier. They could always have an extra body to take the ball and get the scores they needed”.

Gilleran was brimful with pride over the performance of his team. “It was su per to score 1-13 today. Dunmore have some excellent players but there were two good teams out there today. If we played them ten times it would probably end up at five wins each… we set out at the start of the year to win three trophies and while we fell short here today we have had a good year in 2022 and overall we are happy with that”.

Dunmore MacHales produced a storm ing final quarter display to sweep to the provincial title in impressive fashion in Kiltoom on Saturday.

It won’t be much consolation to the

Roscommon champions, but they played their part in what was a thrilling final. When it came down to that vital final quarter, Dunmore just had that little bit extra up front and were able to get the match-winning scores when it mattered. In a cracking atmosphere generated by a big crowd, there was some excel lent football from both sides. Those lucky enough to be present witnessed a stunning display of high fielding from Keith Doyle. Time after time the young St Dominic’s man plucked the ball out of the sky in a manner that revived memories of the great Dermot Earley at his best. He didn’t deserve to be on the losing side. In truth, the Dominic’s at tack never really got going and a lot of Doyle’s great work went unrewarded. St Dominic’s were the better side in the opening stages, going 0-4 to 0-2 ahead, with Daire Keenan (2), Cian Kelly and Tommy Hurley scoring.

Dunmore always looked dangerous and in the 14th minute a sweeping move saw Shane McGrath being hauled to the ground by David Gately. McGrath put the resultant penalty beyond Mark Mi ley.

Keith Doyle levelled the scores imme diately in what was now an absorbing battle. Mark Miley denied Conor Glee son an almost certain goal. Dominic’s were down to 14 men for ten minutes when Kyran Dockery was black-carded in injury-time. It looked a harsh decision. Dunmore led 1-6 to 0-8 at the interval.

Gilleran: ‘We’re disappointed, but it was a good year for club’

Disappointed St Dominic’s manager Tomás Gilleran stood in the centre of the Kiltoom pitch shortly after the final whistle, surrounded by his players and hundreds of supporters as the Dun more contingent celebrated their win.

“Dunmore are quality opposition and it was a great game of football. To have 31 scores in a game on the first weekend in December is fantastic, but it is very disappointing to be on the losing side.

“We set out at the start of the year to win three trophies and while we fell short here today we have had a good year in 2022 and overall we are happy with that”.

He agreed that Dunmore had the slight edge up front.

“We got some great scores, really stylish scores, but they were able to re spond that little bit easier. They could always have an extra body to take the

ball and get the scores they needed”. The St Dominic’s manager thought that the first black card given to Kyran Dockery was a harsh call.

“Look, we were beaten here today fair and square – and in fairness to the referee he had a fine game – but we felt that it was a trip and an impulse reaction to go for the ball. I thought if anything it should have been a yellow card. He gave a black…and despite that the lads managed that period very well. They are the breaks you get and we won’t linger on it.

“It was super to score 1-13 today. Dunmore have some excellent play ers but there were two good teams out there today. If we played them ten times it would probably end up at five wins each.

“There had to be a winner today and now they are just one game away from Croke Park. That’s where we wanted to be but I wish them the best of luck now” he concluded.

< SEAMUS DUKE

AIB Connacht Club IFC final Dunmore MacHales 1-16 St Dominic’s 1-13

< SEAMUS DUKE

Dunmore’s

Cian Kelly of St Dominic’s is upended during this phase of play in last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football Final at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Jack Lohan in action during last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football Final between St Dominic’s of Roscommon and Dunmore MacHales of Galway at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

as memorable journey ends

The third quarter was tense, points from Darren Donnelly (free) and Brendan O’Meara levelling the match at 0-10 to 1-7 after 44 minutes.

It was Dunmore who kicked on from there. Matthew Reddington, Thomas Gleeson and Padraig Costello were an increasing influence on the game as the Galway men made their decisive move. Costello kicked three points on the trot (including a free and a mark) and the gap was suddenly out to three by the 52nd minute.

The magnificent Doyle kept his side in it with a long-range point. Domi nic’s were back to within a point (1-11 to 0-13) in the 55th minute (Darren Donnelly converting two frees). Points from Brendan Carr, Jake Slattery, Mat thew Reddington and Thomas Gleeson saw the Galway side go five ahead go ing into injury-time.

Kyran Dockery received a second black card and was sent to the line when he was adjudged to have pulled back Conor Mitchell in the 57th min ute.

All credit to Dominic’s as they never threw in the towel. In the second min ute of time added on Cian Kelly blasted home a great goal through a forest of players to give his side hope, but Dun more held on.

The winners had excellent perform ers in Thomas Gleeson, Matthew Red dington, Padraig Costello, Jake Slattery and Declan Rattigan.

For Dominic’s, for whom it has been a great season (and they have the play ers to make an impact at senior level),

the aforementioned Keith Doyle was superb. If the new Roscommon man ager was watching, Davy Burke will be looking forward to the prospect of working with Doyle in the future, as he looks a star in the making. Cian Kelly, who has had a superb year, also impressed, as did Jack Lohan, Daire Keenan and Tommy Hurley.

Stat Attack

Wides: Dunmore 8 (4, first half); St Dominic’s 5 (2, first half)

Red cards: Dunmore 0; St Dominic’s 1 (Kyran Dockery 56m, 2nd black card)

Black cards: Dunmore 1 (Danny Forde, 63m); St Dominic’s 2 (both to Kyran Dockery, 30m and 56m)

Yellow cards: Dunmore 0; St Dominic’s 3 (Paddy Fallon, Tom Appleby, Keith Doyle)

Attendance: 2,500 approx.

Man of the Match: Keith Doyle (St Dominic’s)

Teams & Scorers

Subs:

St Dominic’s: Mark Miley;

(1-1),

Eoin

Brendan O’Meara (0-1); Cian

(0-5, 4 frees), Keith Doyle (0-2), Daire Keenan (0-3); David Gately, Tommy Hurley (0-1), Karol Feerick.

Subs: Mark O’Malley for Appleby (48), Conor Fallon for Gately (53), Naos Con naughton for Feerick (62).

Referee: Paul Lydon (Mayo).

Dunmore now eyeing up Croker

Dunmore captain Matthew Red dington agreed that he had taken part in a great game of football. “There were some unbelievable scores from both sides. And it is fan tastic to come out on the right side of the scoreline.

“I’d like to pay a tribute to St Brig id’s for the fantastic pitch they have here. It was easy to play football on it today for both sides. The condi tions were excellent.

“We are so delighted (with the

win). We have just one more step to take and we will be in Croke Park. We are just 60 minutes away from it now and that’s a dream for a lot of us so hopefully we can do it now”. He agreed that his side came good at just the right time. “Against Bal lyhaunis in the semi-final we got eight points in 12 minutes and out there today we got five in five min utes. We knew we had the players to drive on and get us over the line and thankfully we did that again today”.

Keith Doyle and Jack Lohan of St Dominic’s contesting for a high ball during last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football Final between St Dominic’s of Roscommon and Dunmore MacHales of Galway at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Eoin McCormack emerges with the ball during last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football Final between St Dominic’s of Roscommon and Dunmore MacHales of Galway at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Dunmore MacHales: Conor Gleeson; Colin Lyons, Declan Rattigan, Danny Forde; Sean Murray, Conor Mitchell, Luke Murray; Thomas Gleeson (0-2, 1 ’45), Martin Cleary; Dylan Brady (0-1), Matthew Reddington (0-2), Jamie Coen (0-1); Shane McGrath (1-0, pen), Padraig Costello (0-5, 1 f, 1 m), Jake Slattery (0-3).

Brendan Carr (0-1) for Cleary (h/t), Damien Reddington (0-1) for Coen (49), Joe Burke for McGrath (61).

Micheal Byrne,

McCormack,

Kelly

Jack Lohan, Kyran Dockery; Paddy Fallon, Tom Appleby; Darren Donnelly