11 February 2022 Roscommon People

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11 February 2022

The Local Paper Roscommon People Friday

Roscommon is ready to #Springback

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11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon

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This week, the Roscommon People launches a #SpringbackRoscommon campaign which is aimed at boosting local businesses as they ‘step into spring’ with a renewed (and overdue) spring in their step! Inside today’s free Roscommon People, readers will find a special SPRING SUPPLEMENT, the first of a series we will publish over the coming weeks.

Local businesses have had a torrid two years due to the pandemic, but the recent lifting of virtually all Covid-19 restrictions now offers grounds for optimism for SMEs and local communities generally.

As your locally-owned community newspaper, we’re supporting local SMEs all the way – and we’re urging our 80,000 readers to shop in Roscommon, avail of services in Roscommon, enjoy amenities in Roscommon, and help the business community recover. By continuing to support local SMEs, we’re boosting the local economy and ensuring that local jobs will be retained.

The pandemic perils notwithstanding, the reality is that Covid-19 has actually created some new possibilities for our county, and for rural Ireland generally, with strong anecdotal evidence of vibrancy in the property market as increased remote working triggers positive dividends for rural towns.

Over the coming weeks, in print and online, we will prominently promote local businesses and positive community initiatives, all as part of our #SpringbackRoscommon campaign. Contact us on news@roscommonpeople.ie if you have a suggestion for a story or promotion. Roscommon is ready to spring back!

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Contact our Property Department in LLP Byrne Carolan Cunningham Byrne Carolan Cunningham LLP Contact in AT HLO NL EO Ι M O E M Ι LO A NAT E Department SB HE Ι S G ABLWAY AT H Nour EATΙProperty EO R Ι O LUAG N O R O U G H Ι G A LW AY Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors ATHLONE Ι MOATE Ι LANE SB OROUGH Ι GALWAY Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Solicitors If you were in sales an accident that was Solicitors for advice oninvolved property and purchases

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Byrne Cunningham Solicitors ON AT Econtentious ΙE LCarolan A ΙN E Bayour OR UB Gyour H Gfees A orLWAY * In business, solicitor may not calculate other fault AT HAT LH OLN EE ΙΙ M MOO AT LSA N EO S O ΙR O U G H Ι GA LW AY PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate feesfault or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

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Contact our Property Department in Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Byrne Carolan Cunningham SolicitorsByrne Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors If you were in sales an accident that was for advice oninvolved property and purchases for advice on property sales and purchases AT H L OAT N EH Ι L MO O AT E Ι ΙL AM N EO SB O REO U GE A LWAY NE AT Ι GLHAΙ N SBOR U G H on Ιnot G A LWfault AY forOadvice property sales and purchases your contact

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Byrne Carolan Solicitors * In contentious business, aCunningham solicitor may not calculate fees or other * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS 090accident 647 8433TRANSACTIONS In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS If you were involved in an that was* charges PROPERTY as a 090 percentage 647 or proportion of any award or settlement 8433 090 647 8433 PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS www.bccsolicitors.ie Contact our Property Department in not your fault contact MOTOR ACCIDENTS www.bccsolicitors.ie MOTOR ACCIDENTS 090 Cunningham 647 8433 www.bccsolicitors.ie Byrne Carolan Solicitors charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

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02

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

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AT H L O N E Ι M O AT E L A N E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LWAY In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate DOLORES*GACQUIN – SOLICITOR fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie any award or settlement

090 647 8433

Land Purchase and Taxes www.bccsolicitors.ie

I hope to buy some agricultural land in the coming months. I would like some advice on the likely taxes I may have to pay. I understand that I will have to pay stamp duty? Are there any other taxes I should be aware of e.g. Capital Gains Tax, Capital Acquisitions Tax? The rate of stamp duty payable on agricultural land or commercial property has increased in recent years. If you purchase agricultural land or other commercial property then stamp duty at a rate of 7.5% of the land value currently applies.

E.g. if you purchase land for €200,000 then stamp duty of €15,000 is payable. Interest and penalties will also be payable if the stamp duty is not paid within the requisite time period.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax payable on the profit made on the disposal of investment property i.e. the sale of any property other than your principal private residence. The rate of CGT is currently 33%. This tax will not affect the purchaser of property. It is a matter for the seller only.

Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) is only payable upon receipt of a gift or inheritance. In the event that you purchase land at full market value then no Capital Acquisitions Tax will be payable. If however, land or other property is transferred from one party to another for substantially less than its market value Revenue may treat this transaction as a gift, and CAT may be due. E.g.

If you purchase land from a family member for €50,000 and the known market value of the property is €150,000 then Revenue will look upon this transaction as containing a gift from one relative to another of €100,000. The rate of CAT is currently 33%.

e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

‘I guess this pandemic has changed us all…a little. Time will tell…’

We did it! After TWO YEARS! Yep, emotional…

We sat together at the counter! In our local! On a Friday night, until 11 o’clock!

Yep… Of course we understand that diving back in may not be for everyone…

Yeah, maybe not even for us. Maybe we’ll CYCLING ACCIDENT meet earlier in the evening in the local?

Still, it was nice…just to experience it If you were involved in a cycling again. accident contact (Editor: Some humour, please!)

Byrne Carolan AND we missed the Eurosong caper on Cunningham Solicitors the Late Late!

(They pause to acknowledge that they both saw the repeat of the Late Late Show and felt the ‘Eurosong caper’ wasn’t so bad)

Maybe not even for us?

Huh? You said…being in the pub, at the counter, at night, may not even be for us…

Oh I dunno, I guess this pandemic has changed us all…a little. Time will tell…

The banana bread factor, is it? We were confronted with so much that was different. Is that it?

Well, a LOT has changed. Do we even know who we are any more?

Bit deep? I mean, it’s only banana bread!

Mmnn…

Well, Zoom calls too, I suppose. And the phenomenon of those vans delivering packages to our houses. And the maskwearing…

This is what I’m getting at. We’ve changed…at least a little. The banana bread was grand, that and other new hobbies, the new appreciation of nature, the extra

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

time at home, particularly during the first lockdown, but the other stuff, it’s strange…

Huh? The Zoom calls were fine, good even.

The online shopping was already a thing.

The masks…I dunno…put them with the enforced social distancing, the isolation, the not meeting people…I feel it’s changed us…inevitably.

(Editor: Not sure I can take this philosophical, soppy stuff. I’m going on YouTube for some comedy…)

Leona Maguire’s magnificent victory in the Drive On Championship in Florida – the first LPGA Tour win by an Irish woman.

What we didn’t like…

The resignation of Paul Givan as First Minister of Northern Ireland has triggered an unnecessary crisis and smacks of electioneering by the DUP and its leader, Jeffrey Donaldson.

What PEOPLE are talking about…

Byrne Carolan Cunningham info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

My friend, we’ll learn from the pandemic, we’ll take the journey into the new normal or the old normal or whatever it is, with care and empathy…

Good plan. I guess I just got a touch maudlin or fearful or nervous…

Perfectly understandable. It’s been a rough ride, but hope is back…and the Rossies won!

Thanks, pal. Maybe a Friday EVENING pint this week? I’m still not sure about the night…

Well, the Late Late Valentine’s Special is on…

Oh dear! See you in the pub at 9.30!

(Editor rolls eyes)

What we liked…

A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

SOLICITORS

We just need to ease ourselves back…

You realise I’m not just talking about us and the local…

YES! I’m not THAT vain!

I’m talking about wider society. The elderly, our peers, our teenage children… about social interaction generally.

I know…it will take time.

We missed out on so much…it just hit me in the pub the other night. It all felt quite strange.

But people were nice?

Oh yes, but I guess it will take time to get back to how we once were.

(Editor: I’m going for a pint, this is too much).

(They pause to try and lighten the mood, while appreciating that it’s good to show vulnerability)

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

(They pause to wistfully stare into the shadows of their past)

PIC OF THE WEEK: Tyrone’s goalkeeper Conor McElhatton pictured having a friendly chat with an umpire during Sunday’s National Hurling League game between Roscommon and Tyrone in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Rising inflation woes; Oscar nominations; Crisis (again) in Northern Ireland political circles; Golfer Leona Maguire’s inspirational win in America; The weekend’s GAA action; Ireland’s Six Nations win over Wales; Golfgate controversy ends with a whimper; Comedian Jimmy Carr in hot water over Holocaust joke…

03

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

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Posts still not filled at e-Mental Health Hub < DAN DOONER

A number of posts remain vacant at the e-Mental Health Hub in Castlerea almost two years on from the opening of the €2.6 million facility.

The vacancies were confirmed by the Department of Heath following a recent Parliamentary Question from Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane.

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Deputy Kerrane said: “It has been confirmed to me that five posts remain vacant for the Psychiatry of Later Life Day Hospital in the e-Mental Health Hub in Castlerea, with just two posts filled “Three posts remain vacant in CAMHS

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Connect for young people, although I’ve been assured these are at an advanced stage of recruitment.

“Almost two years since the e-Mental Health Hub was opened and these services, particularly the Day Hospital for Psychiatry of Later Life, are still not staffed.

“It was not until after repeatedly raising the lack of services available at the hub last year that funding was put in place to begin recruitment, over a year after it was opened.

“I will continue to consistently raise this issue until these vital mental health supports are made available to those who need them”.

Contractor in place for Portiuncula project The HSE has selected a contractor to for the construction of a new 50-bed ward block at Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe.

The building will cost approximately €25m and is expected to be completed by the middle of next year.

Local Independent TD Denis Naughten said the development will address serious overcrowding at the hospital.

“My colleague Sean Canney TD has confirmed to me that a Letter of Intent to sign a contract has been issued to the selected contractor with work expected to begin on site

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in the coming months,” Deputy Naughten said.

“I have also received confirmation from the HSE that the design of this 50-bed ward block will allow for a future extension of a further 50 beds which would help to significantly improve the capacity of Portiuncula Hospital.

“It is expected that within the next 20 weeks, 12 new isolation beds will become available at Portiuncula, which will replace the beds lost at the hospital due to bed closures to meet Covid requirements”.

Deputy Denis Naughten

09/02/2022 12:25

04

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople

POLITICAL PEOPLE Claire’s props, Nolan live (and loud), Emily the smiling assassin, a silly set…and missing Vincent HOW I RATE THE TOP POLITICAL SHOWS ON TV! < PAUL HEALY

Okay, finally…due to popular demand(!) here’s how I rate eight well-known programmes that regularly feature one on ones with those hardto-pin-down politicians…it’s my TOP EIGHT POLITICAL-TYPE SHOWS…(in reverse order)

8

Claire Byrne Live: A shock to begin with…I’m

placing the Claire Byrne Live Show eighth – or last of those featured – because of their annoying persistence with… props. This, after all, is the show which, during a segment on outdoor dining, showed viewers how to…wear a coat.

Claire Byrne is a very well informed interviewer, but the obsession with props and staged segments is a real turn-off. Was it a dream or did I see Professor Luke O’Neill and comedian Bernard O’Shea rolling around in plastic bubbles/zorbs? Last week, Claire started throwing ‘money props’ into a bin during a segment on rising energy costs. This week, she threw a pound of butter into a basket. Enough!

7The Week In Politics:

Boring. Predictable. A yawn-fest. No disrespect to the presenters, it’s the format that’s the problem. Every week, there are two or three of the familiar faces in studio, and one very eager guest (usually Peadar Tóibín looking in earnestly) chomping at the bit on a large screen.

Each guest gets to articulate their party line, spontanaiety is rare, and there really is no risk of a late breakfast being missed.

Maybe this is all a deliberate ‘cosy and casual Sunday morning’ approach, but seventh place it is!

6Nolan Live:

The Nolan Live Show is hilarious knockabout Wednesday night entertainment. Well, obviously not when it’s covering tragedies. It’s so crazy, I

could almost place it in the top 3. Good luck to presenter Stephen, he knows how to ‘sell’ himself (Typical comment: “We discussed this at length on the Stephen Nolan radio show…”).

The TV show features Northern Ireland’s zany politicians, seated up close and personal to Nolan, who duly theatrically berates them in his thunderous voice. Occasionally, bewildered guests join in from England. Nolan’s journalistic instincts are excellent, and he always has both eyes firmly on ratings.

Sometimes the show will try to broaden its content by suddenly introducing a singer/Soap star/Katie Price/Debbie McGee/Nathan Carter (yeah, I know he’s a singer). The cringe factor immediately rises. Still, these odd diversions are welcome relief from Jim Allister.

5The Tonight Show:

The four-times-a-week Virgin Media show has morphed from the memorable and downright eccentric Vincent Browne era through the slightly staged Yates/ Cooper reign, to its current safe, solid, but rather boring status.

Claire Brock is a fine anchor but I haven’t yet come to terms with the dispensing of the confrontational approach – whether heartfelt or exaggerated – that propelled this show into public consciousness.

The highest I can place a show I still have a fondness for is…fifth.

Of course all that would change if Vincent could be talked back into the studio!

4Channel 4 News:

While not strictly a political show, this programme invariably delivers a mischievous interview or two with a politician. Usually the subject/victim is standing in a grand lobby area in the House of Commons, with the presenter in studio, directing one of those distinctively C4 News interrogations.

Cathy Newman and Krishnan Guru-Murthy are regular presenters, the latter particularly tongue-in-cheek. Sadly, the great Jon Snow has retired from the show. Consistently good fun – and with its share of journalistic scoops – the delightfully idiosyncratic Channel 4 News is at number four.

3Newsnight:

The best tribute I can pay the slick BBC 2 programme is to say that whenever there’s a major Westminster controversy, it’s always tempting to tune into that night’s Newsnight to get a sense of the political temperature as midnight approaches. While prone to a certain smugness,

Newsnight can still deliver engrossing interviews and quality reporting segments.

With the Jeremy Paxman era long over, these days Emma Barnett, Kirsty Wark and Emily Maitlis alternate as presenters.

Maitlis, a smiling assassin of sorts, displayed her superb journalistic skill when dissecting Prince Andrew. Third place goes to Newsnight, because it’s sophisticated, persistent, informative, entertaining.

2Question Time:

I’ve been a fan of the BBC flagship current affairs show since the 1980s, when the brilliant Sir Robin Day was host. The Question Time format doesn’t change, nor should it…about five guests, host in the middle, questions, answers, audience interaction, and sometimes heated debate. Consistently good, somehow it always manages to be lively and engaging.

David Dimbleby (24 years as host) must take a lot of the credit for its success, although his increasingly curmudgeonly and tetchy contributions in latter years probably hastened the parting of the ways. Still, Dimbleby was a magnificent journalist and broadcaster, and his assured anchoring helped maintain Question Time as a firm audience favourite.

Current presenter Fiona Bruce has a sometimes annoyingly cheerful style, but has grown into the formidable shoes she was asked to fill, and Question Time remains near enough as satisfying as ever.

1Prime Time:

Top spot goes to Prime Time, but only in a photo finish with Question Time. Prime Time is far from perfect, and to be honest, it’s missable, whereas Question Time ought not to be missed.

The reason I’m giving the nod to Prime Time is because at its best, it’s very, very good. The flagship RTE show gets all the big political hitters in for live studio showdowns. Sarah McInerney, replicating her radio success, has emerged as the presenter most likely to make life very difficult for guests. The programme’s special investigative reports are often of the highest quality.

Because it is consistently good and occasionally superb – presenting lively, topical political debate, interspersed with often outstanding filmed reports – Prime Time edges top spot over Question Time. I have graciously decided not to deduct points for Prime Time’s bizarre, multicoloured, futuristic and ill-judged set.

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

Leona Maguire

Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

whose manager, Brendan Rodgers, is thought to be a possible target for the underperforming Old Trafford club

Philip Nolan @philipnolan1 I’m going to apply for a grant to retrofit myself. I’m thinking I’d like to be 37 again. #CBLive -We’re not entirely sure the Government’s new initiative works quite that way, Philip…

Shane Beatty @ShaneBeattyNews Why did Marty Whelan never present the #LateLateShow?

-We know, we know…you’re into ninth mystery of the world territory there…

Paul Howard @AkaPaulHoward It looks like United might get Rodgers without having to pay Leicester compensation.

-The ‘United’ referred to is thought to be Manchester United(!), the reference is to the poor form of Leicester,

Jacqui Hurley @jacquihurley Oh what a night!! Watching it back again this morning & still surreal to see Leona Maguire become the first ever Irish LPGA Tour winner. Long time coming & no doubt will be the first of many. Congrats @leona_maguire dreams do come true.

-Jacqui speaks for a nation

Paul Howard @AkaPaulHoward I know you didn’t ask for my opinion, but allowing opposition players to run at the kicker when he’s taking a kick is one of the stupidest things about rugby.

-Paul may not receive an invitation to the Virgin Media Six Nations’ panel for another while at least…

Brianna Parkins @parkinsbrea If someone offering property/deposit saving advice starts with “when I bought my house 20 years ago” you are allowed (by law) to stop listening -It’s so hard to keep up with the changing laws these days…

Marty Whelan

05

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople

Strokestown mum in ‘Love Run’ for charity which supported young daughter A Roscommon mum is backing a major fundraising drive for the charity which helped her family through a series of traumatic operations on her baby daughter.

Teacher Fiona Fallon, 41, is warming up for the Irish Heart Foundation’s annual 5k ‘Love Run’ on Valentine’s weekend after both she and two of her children suffered a succession of heart problems.

The most serious of these involved her newborn daughter Anna having four operations in her first seven months of life – as surgeons worked on a heart the size of a strawberry.

“When she was born in 2019, she seemed well at first. But the nurses and doctors found her deteriorating rapidly,” said Strokes-

town mum Fiona, who also had open-heart surgery at four to correct a congenital heart defect.

“Thirty-six hours later, she (Anna) had gone really cold, wasn’t feeding, and was transferred to NICU. The cardiologists in Crumlin were involved and she was rushed there by ambulance.

“It was panic stations, her aorta was extremely narrow, circulation to the body wasn’t possible, she had to be put on sedation and a ventilator.

“She had two open-heart surgeries within her first ten days of life.

She was only 2.5 kilos when she was born, they were working on a heart the size of a strawberry.

“She was a tough little baby to survive it but it was a very trau-

Meeting onAleen Cust Commemoration

na Fallon pictured with Strokestown mum Fio na. Fiona will take part her young daughter, An tion’s ‘Love Run’ this da in the Irish Heart Foun Valentine’s weekend.

matic time,” the mum-of-three said.

“It was a long, worrying time.

I didn’t know what was going to happen to her. Was she going to die at home when I was trying to mind her, tube feed her, and give her medications 13 times a day?”

Anna had her biggest operation in late 2019 and since then, has thrived. The experience was the last in a series of health traumas for the family – her second son, Isaac, was born with two holes in his heart.

But just as he was about to undergo surgery, doctors discovered that they had spontaneously closed, meaning he didn’t need the procedure.

Fiona said she is “eternally grateful” to the Irish Heart Foundation

for all the support she and her family received – mainly through its Nurse Support Line – over the past three years.

“We were really cocooning for most of it and isolating from everybody. I am really lucky my parents live next door so we formed a bubble with them that was a big help, but it was very monotonous not seeing people, not having the freedom even to go to the supermarket. Lockdown was tough,” Fiona concluded.

You can register for the Irish Heart Foundation Love Run for €25 at irishheart.ie and receive a training plan, tips, and a beanie hat. The run can be undertaken across Valentine’s weekend from February 12th to 14th. Donations welcome.

Aleen Cust (1868-1937) was a brave, courageous woman who, after a long fight, became the first lady veterinary surgeon in Ireland, England, and indeed Europe.

She completed her veterinary training in 1900, but was barred because of her gender from using the title ‘veterinary surgeon’. Aleen had excellent references and when William Byrne (an esteemed vet in Athleague, Co. Roscommon) heard of her case, he offered her a role working as his assistant.

The Aleen Cust Memorial Society, Galway County Council, Roscommon County Council, and Tipperary County Council are working in partnership with the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Teagasc, Kepak Athleague and a number of schools and community groups to commemorate and to remember this very courageous and determined Irish woman.

The proposed programme of events includes a conference, play, book, exhibition, Transition Year Schools Programme, StoryMap, podcasts and videos. The local community is invited to be part of the wider commemorations and it is hoped that a community event can take place in Athleague on Saturday, August 13th, as part of National Heritage Week.

The Heritage Office of Roscommon County Council, in association with Kepak Athleague, invite all those interested in getting involved in the Aleen Cust Commemoration 2022 to come along to a meeting in the Suck Valley Way Visitor Centre, Athleague, from 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm on Tuesday, February 15th, to hear more about the commemorations.

For more information, please email: heritage@ roscommoncoco.ie or phone Nollaig Feeney (Heritage Officer) on 087-9078860.

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Now accepting enrolments for September 2022

Cloonbonniffe NS, 8km from Castlerea town, is now accepting enrolments for September 2022.

Established in 1875, an O’Connor Don school, it is steeped in history and long record of excellent education.

We are a mixed primary school vibrant and busy with a strong teamwork ethic within our school community.

Nestled in the countryside, we are a perfect choice for your child, if you wish their education to revolve around abundant nature and outdoor schooling. We have small class sizes which provides great opportunities for all children.

As well as focusing on the academics of school, we seek to immerse your child in a rounded development of individuality, wellbeing, physical

all classes. We have a book rental scheme in operation. Your child’s book bill is supplemented.

health in our natural surroundings.

Facilities include a football and basketball pitch, nature park, very spacious school yard, sensory garden, children’s playground, general purpose room, as well as excellent classroom and special

education resources. Our school also offers free lunches from Freshtoday to all pupils.

We have regular outside coaching for Gaelic and Soccer. We offer tinwhsitle lessons. We offer reduced fee swimming lessons yearly for

Achievements to date include 5 green school flags, Junior Entrepreneur Programme, Active School Flag, Health Promotion School, Food dudes healthy eating programme and many more.

School begins at 8.50am and finishes at 2.30pm. We offer an afterschool service running from 1.30-4.30pm and is available to pupil’s junior infants to 6th class.

If you wish to view our school and meet our staff with your child, please email cbns1875@gmail.com or contact 094 96 40388 or 086 8865345.

Please follow us on Facebook to see regular updates of our daily school lives! – WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU

Takin 2022 n upgr Call to co

06

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Thursday At long last, that tiresome Golfgate saga is over.

I’m not making excuses for the colourful cast who played a round of golf, and then dined and partied, while unaware that they were entering some kind of notoriety.

I remember the public anger, how upsetting it all was for people who had lost loved ones due to Covid, for those who couldn’t visit elderly/ill relatives, for all of us who were observing the guidelines – while politicians, members of the judiciary, media figures and other mildly eminent individuals gathered in what, at the very least, was an ill-judged, arrogant affront to the rest of us.

People who aired their views in the court of public opinion (Liveline) were beyond furious. They wanted heads to roll, but was the response disproportionate? I think it was.

Whatever the rights and wrongs, whatever the emotions at the time, I was staggered to see the matter come before the courts many months later. I never believed for one moment that the management of the Station House Hotel would have knowingly facilitated any breach of guidelines. Seventeen months on from the sorry episode, did we really need to go to the expense and silliness of a trial? (Two hoteliers and two of the event organisers have just had all charges against them dismissed).

The event left a sour taste, no question about that. Those who attended exercised poor judgement, because, even if they didn’t breach guidelines, the very fact that ‘the elite’ were golfing and partying was provocative and insensitive to the wider public at what was a very stressful time.

But bringing four individuals to court on charges that were subsequently dismissed was a waste of time – and resources. Sometimes it really is best to just move on, preferably with lessons learnt.

Friday I love it when slightly reclusive/slightly mysterious Irish tycoons re-emerge after a period in the wilderness (in the media wilderness at least).

For some time I’ve been wondering where Dermot Desmond (estimated wealth: €2.04 billion) is these days. You’ll never see Dermot on Prime Time, or shooting the breeze with Tommy Tiernan either.

When he’s in the papers, it’s usually because our Dermot is being featured in one of those ‘Ireland’s Richest’ lists the papers presume readers find fascinating.

Most nights just before going to bed I wonder what became of Dashing Dermot, famous for his very fetching moustache, that media-shyness, and of course his money-making flair.

Then, just when I was considering pitching a reality show to the TV people – ‘I’m a Tycoon, Can You Guess Where I Am?’ – Dashing Dermot re-emerged.

There he was on the fairways and greens in California, playing golf with Seamus Power in the high profile Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Oh, well, I guess I can tear up my Tycoon hunt reality show pitch.

Anyone for a celebrity version of ‘Come Drink With Me’ (based in the Department of Foreign Affairs)?

Saturday Ireland began their Six Nations campaign with a very convinc-

Cathy Tully and Marie McGarry pictured out and about in Hester’s, Castlerea, recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

ing win over Wales, a 29-7 bonus point triumph which maintained the encouraging momentum built up by Andy Farrell’s team during the Autumn Nations Series. Ireland’s win sets up a mouth-watering potentially title-deciding clash with France in Paris this Saturday.

Later on Saturday If Ireland’s win over Wales was a tasty highlight of the early part of Saturday, the main sporting kudos of the day must go to Cavan golfer Leona Maguire, who made history by becoming the first ever Irish winner on the LPGA Tour.

While she has been making exciting career progression for some time, the Ballyconnell woman has now moved to a new level, and is rapidly becoming a golf superstar.

This really is only the beginning for Maguire. She has all the qualities required – including accuracy, a lethal putting touch, and composure under pressure – to win majors and climb closer to the summit of world golf.

A mention also for the remarkable Seamus Power. Rather like someone who usually stays in the background at parties suddenly becoming the centre of attention, the Waterford golfer has emerged from the shadows of Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry. Building on his brilliant form of recent months, Power shot into a five-stroke lead in this weekend’s Pebble Beach Pro-Am, before slipping back to joint 9th.

Sunday I’m not sure if they’re aware of the ‘Handbags defence’ in the soccer world, but I’m pretty sure it occasionally gets used in rugby, and it is of course a fixed part of the GAA parlance, a kind of modern-day version of ‘schemozzle’.

Unless the lads are doing something really, really nasty during an outbreak of violence – er, ‘letting off steam’ – in a GAA match,

brawls and fights are quickly dismissed as ‘only handbags’.

“There wasn’t really a lot in it, it was only handbags”.

The phrase seems to refer to some unidentified period in our history when fiery women, complete with scarf around their head and possibly even a shawl, might clash in public and start belting one another with their handbags.

Of course it’s by the way that dismissing a GAA brawl as ‘handbags’ might be highly insulting to some women, the inference being that their rows lacked a certain merit.

Then, just when the politically correct time came for women to consider taking exception to being stereotyped/drawn into commentary on outbreaks of GAA fighting, along came (some) men with their own version of handbags, or ‘manbags’. So at least now it’s men and women who are being needlessly implicated when the GAA fraternity dismiss a row on the pitch as ‘mere handbags’.

All of which came to mind today when the Tyrone lads and the Armagh lads tussled and rolled about and wrestled for a few minutes in the closing stages of their National Football League encounter. Referee David Gough sent off five (four of them from Tyrone). Some people agreed with his no-nonsense approach, others said there wasn’t a proper punch thrown (i.e. handbags).

Meanwhile, Roscommon had a great win in Navan, where there was also another GAA special, our old friend ‘the melee’.

I wasn’t there, but the People was represented by Seamus Duke and Mick McCormack (neither of whom are understood to have had manbags with them).

Monday Former Conservative Party MP and minister Edwina Currie is on with Pat Kenny (Newstalk), for another of their regular jousts on the political scene across the water. After initial niceties, their exchanges usually descend into tedious and quite smug differences of opinion. I usually run a mile from them.

Today, I’m tuned in. Edwina defends Boris Johnson to the hilt, not unreasonably pointing out that he’s highly intelligent (contrary to the caricature), an electoral asset, and is currently spearheading massive investment in historically underfunded parts of the UK. Pat then strikes. How does it feel having a liar as your PM? The exchange gets a touch testy. Edwina plays the Charlie Haughey (‘Hockey’) card, as in ‘You guys had your own tainted/dodgy leader’). She assures Kenny that she would prefer an effective leader who doesn’t behave as people might like, to “a saint like Theresa May” who was “useless”. (May was predecessor to Johnson as UK Prime Minister).

Just as I’m scolding myself for sticking with another of these Kenny/Currie stand-offs, the interviewee boasts that the UK approved the very first Covid-19 vaccine.

“Yes, but there was an Irish woman at the head of the company” Pat responded. It was ever so slightly mortifying, like when Ryan Tubridy (and Kenny before him) asks a Late Late Show guest from abroad about their Irish links.

“There are 30,000 people working for that company, you can’t just pick out one Irish person” Ms. Currie replied (Pat: “I can”).

I could almost see her rolling her eyes across the airwaves.

Next time, I’ll implement a radio version of Groucho Marx’s advice: “I find television very educational. Every time someone switches it on I go into another room and read a good book”.

07

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople Christmas Lights Committee AGM The Christmas Lights around Roscommon Town literally do light up our lives in the darkest part of the year. This year especially, they lifted spirits and helped us look forward positively to a New Year in 2022.

The Christmas Lights Committee would like to thank all the volunteers who gave willingly of their time and worked tirelessly to repair and erect the 2021 lights display around the town. The committee wish to recognise the financial contributions made by businesses and members of the public. These funds were essential to cover the costs of the lights.

They would like to give a special word of thanks to the Convent of Mercy TY students, their teacher Tricia Duignan Henriques, the students’ family members, and other willing crochet volunteers for creating the wonderful crocheted Christmas tree, which was a real star of the show this year.

“This is a really rewarding committee to be involved with,” said Declan Molloy, Chairperson of the Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee.

“It is a great bunch of people and their enthusiasm is infectious”.

The AGM will take place in Gleeson’s Townhouse on Wednesday, February 16th, at 8 pm. Anyone interested in volunteering or contributing in any way to the erection of the 2022 Christmas lights are invited to attend.

ENROLMENT EVENING ENROLMENT

Thursday 10th February at 7pm EVENING

Runnamoat Thursday 10thNational FebruarySchool at 7pm Phone: 090 66 62 686School Runnamoat National

Phone: 090 66 62 686 Email: naomhceitheach@gmail.com Email: naomhceitheach@gmail.com

Richard Thompson pictured entertaining the crowd in McGourty’s, Castlerea. Pic: Mick McCormack

Retrofitting scheme welcomed but concerns remain The Government’s retrofitting scheme has been broadly welcomed this week but a number of concerns have been raised around the delivery of projects.

Fine Gael Minister of State Frank Feighan said this week that “tens of thousands of homes” would benefit from the scheme, which was key to reducing emissions in Irish homes.

Describing the announcement as part of the Government’s response to high energy prices, Deputy Feighan said: “This announcement will see the Government provide funding to cover up to half the cost, approximately

€25,000, of a deep-retrofit.

“In the case of a semi-detached home, the attic insulation grant will increase from €400 to €1,300 and the cavity wall insulation grant will increase from €400 to €1,200. These are highly cost-effective upgrade measures that can be deployed rapidly and at scale this year”.

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice, however, was concerned by what he described as the level of Government “spin doctoring”.

“If this scheme is to be effective, sufficient funds have to be allocated to it. Applicants on a lower income must receive sufficient

Scoil Mhuire Ardeevin Ardeevin, Williamstown, via Castlerea, Co. Galway F45 DX68

support to make the scheme viable for them,” Deputy Fitzmaurice said.

“It also frustrates me to hear the Minister praising this scheme and all it is going to achieve, when the current schemes in place from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) are jammed up.

“While I welcome aspects of the new scheme, forgive me for being sceptical about this Government’s ability to deliver on its promises when applications to the schemes currently in place could be waiting up to two years,” Deputy Fitzmaurice concluded.

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08

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Roscommon County Council | Tel. 090 6637100 | Email: info@roscommoncoco.ie | www.roscommoncoco.ie All offices of Roscommon County Council are now open to the public by prior appointment 9.30am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday

PUBLICATION OF 2022/2023 REGISTER OF ELECTORS AND THE EDITED REGISTER OF ELECTORS The Register of Electors and the Edited Register of Electors for the registration area of County Roscommon for the year 15th February 2022 to 14th February 2023 has now been published.

The Registers may be inspected at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council, your Local Municipal District Offices, Head Garda Station, Head Post Office, County Library and online at www.checktheregister.ie

REPORTING OF POLITICAL DONATIONS

BY ELECTED MEMEBERS LOCAL ELECTIONS (DISCLOSURE OF DONATIONS AND EXPENDITURE) ACT 1999 AS AMENDED BY THE ELECTORAL (AMENDMENT) ACT 2001 (SECTION 58), THE ELECTORAL (AMENDMENT) ACT 2002 (SECTION 5) AND THE ELECTORAL (AMENDMENT) (POLITICAL FUNDING) ACT 2012

For further information, please contact Corporate Services Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Telephone (090) 6637390 or email regelectors@roscommoncoco.ie.

Donation Statements submitted by Members of Roscommon County Council for the period 1st January 2021 to 31st December 2021, in accordance with the above legislation, are now available for public inspection. Statements may be viewed, during opening hours, at the Corporate Services Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98.

Caitlín Conneely A/Director of Services Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

Caitlín Conneely A/Director of Services Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

The ECO Showboat

Roscommon County Council are proud to support this year's Eco Showboat through our Creative Ireland Programme 2022 on their travels up our beautiful Shannon River border. #Shannonvoyage 2022 Eco Showboat will be making stops, organising events, meeting with the artists who have been collaborating with us and working on some citizen science.

The full schedule of events will be launched shortly. Exciting! #ecoshowboat #artscouncil70 #creativeir #sfi

09

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople Advertorial

on the Golf Links Road, Roscommon

Career opportunities ‘Right at Home’ in Roscommon town!

‘Right at Home’, specialists in care, operates under Home and Community Care Ireland, and are now looking for care assistants to join its office on the Golf Links Road in Roscommon town.

Serving the counties of Roscommon, Galway and Mayo.

Offering part-time, full-time, and flexible hours at competitive rates, Right at Home is HSE-approved and provides services such as Home Support for Older People, people with disabilities, and those with medical conditions such as Alzheimers/Dementia, Osteoarthritis, diabetes, heart disease and those recovering from stroke and other disorders.

The company offers care to people over the age of 65 who may need support to continue living in the comfort of their own home or those who have returned home following a hospital stay.

There are also care supports for those under the age of 65, who have early onset dementia or a disability.

Right at Home is aimed at helping clients to remain as independent as possible while receiving support within their own communities.

To find out more about Right at Home’s career opportunities or wide range of care services, contact the Roscommon office on 090-6409084.

Over €40k for Tibohine Centre

Thank you for your order. Please note: The image above is not to scale and is for information purposes only.

This advert is copyright of Roscommon Herald Ltd.

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane says she has secured over €40,000 for essential upgrade works for Tibohine Community Centre.

“This is welcome investment in Tibohine.

We have a wonderful facility in the Community Centre, a large hall, a fully fitted out kitchen, a separate meeting room, the centre is wheelchair accessible and there is plenty of parking,” Deputy Kerrane said.

“The Community Centre is well located just off the N5 between Ballaghaderreen and Frenchpark in close proximity to both towns as well as Fairymount and surrounding areas”.

The Sinn Féin TD and Tibohine native said the building had been utilised less frequently in recent years due to its condition.

“I am delighted to have secured funding to

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allow these works to happen. This will allow the centre to be utilised and brought back to being a real hub in the community,” she said.

“I am very grateful to the Broadband Connection Officer in Roscommon County Council for all of his assistance.

“Plans are also now underway to see the development of a remote working hub in the centre”.

newsbriefs

Ronan Carr gets some practice in during the half-time break in Sunday’s National Hurling League game between Roscommon and Tyrone in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

New fundraiser for Rahara Tidy Towns Rahara Tidy Towns are set to run a new ‘Bonus Ball’ fundraiser starting on March 16th where each participant will be assigned a number from the National Lottery Draw.

Participants will keep the same number for the duration of the year. If they match the Lotto Bonus Ball number on Wednesday nights they will win €50.

Entry each week is €2.88 or €12.50 per month. Text Orla on 086-6036432 or email raharatidytowns@gmail.com if you would like to take part. Your support would gratefully appreciated.

Active Retirement resumes on Tuesday The local Active Retirement Group in Roscommon Town resumes on Tuesday next (February 15th) at 3 pm at our new venue, The Hyde Centre, Athlone Road.

Applications for County Fleadh The Roscommon branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann will be accepting applications for Roscommon County Fleadh to be held in Ballaghaderreen on Easter Monday, April 18th. The closing date is March 7th. Applications cannot be accepted after this date.

For application forms or further information, please contact morrispatricia07@gmail.com. All are welcome to join branch sessions on the second and fourth Thursday of each month in Roscommon Community Sports Park building (beside the AstroTurf pitch in Lisnamult) from 8 to 10 pm.

Hospice Ecumenical Service in Knock The ‘Let Love Shine a Light’ Ecumenical Service, previously postponed due to Covid restrictions, will now take place in St. John’s Rest & Care Centre, Knock on Sunday, February 20th at 3.45 pm.

All those included in our Book of Remembrance will be remembered at the Service. All are welcome.

Roscommon Underwater Search and Recovery Unit The Roscommon Underwater Search and Recovery Unit would like to thank the people of Roscommon for their generous support last weekend at the unit’s annual Church gate collection.

We are very grateful for all your help and support and your words of encouragement. As a voluntary organisation we depend on the support of the community and with the help we received last weekend we will continue to provide an underwater search and recovery service to the county of Roscommon.

10

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

The

G

D News page

Take the Roscommon Community Challenge!

Registration is now open for Roscommon Community Challenge 2022. The ‘no fuss, no frills’ event will take place on Friday, March 4th this year in Roscommon town and will comprise a 5k and 10k run/

walk suitable for all levels of fitness and ability.

Training is ongoing in conjunction with Roscommon Sports Partnership every Monday and Wednesday evening from 7 pm at Roscommon

Community Sports Park in Lisnamult and it’s never too late to join in.

To celebrate the return of activities, organisers are also currently running a ‘February Friend Challenge. Simply reg-

Una Doolan pictured with Antoinette and Jessica Dolan during training for Roscommon Community Challenge 2022.

ister at eventbrite.ie ‘Roscommon Community Challenge’ and like and share the event’s Facebook and Instagram pages before February 14th and you and friend will be in with a chance of winning your entry fees back for this year’s event.

Proceeds from this year’s event will go towards Roscommon Special Olympics and Roscommon Community Sports Park.

The event is run in conjunction with Roscommon Sports Partnership. This is an ideal opportunity for the whole community to come together following Covid-19.

For those running against the clock, the Community Challenge is a timed event, but those who aren’t are invited to come along for the fun.

For more information, contact Roscommon Sports Partnership on 090-6630853 or Jacqui McCormack on 086-1721181.

Mella Marques and Liam Stephens pictured during training for Roscommon Community Challenge 2022.

The ‘February Friend Challenge’ is now running as part of the Roscommon Community Challenge. Register for the Community Challenge and like and share the Facebook and Instagram pages before February 14th and you and your friend could win your entry fee back!

European Entente Florale set for Keadue

Ballintubber musician, Fiona Sirr, was recently named as the winner of World Whistle competition.

World Whistle win for Fiona!

Ballintubber musician, Fiona Sirr, said she was “super chuffed” to be named as the winner of a recent World Whistle Day competition.

The Carlow native posted a video of herself performing ‘Annie’s Song’ and was announced as the winner of the ‘World of Whistles’ competition, which featured entries from around the world, last weekend.

“There were fantastic music clips posted from all over the world and to say I am honoured to be named the winner is an understatement. I am so grateful to the judges at World of Whistles and delighted to be recognised,” she said.

While understandably pleased with global recognition for her whistle prowess, Fiona says her feet remain firmly on the ground.

“I told the kids when I received the email at the weekend telling me I’d won and their response was, ‘That’s great mam, now what’s for dinner?’ I think I’ll hold off on the world tour for now!”

You can check out Fiona’s music videos on her Facebook and Instagram pages.

Keadue village was chosen by the Department of Rural and Community Development to participate in the Entente Florale competition in 2020 but due to Covid-19 restrictions it was cancelled and has been rescheduled for June 2022.

The Entente Florale Europe (“Flowery Alliance of Europe”) is an international horticultural competition established to recognise municipalities and villages in Europe for excellence in horticultural displays. Trophies are presented annually by tourist boards and horticultural societies of European countries.

Organisers in Keadue say it’s a great honour for the people of the village and the parish of Kilronan to have been chosen to enter one of Europe’s most prestigious competitions. Keadue won a silver medal in this competition back in 2003.

Rossies on Tour!

Congratulations to Senan Kilbride (St. Brigid’s), Scott Oates and Cian Connolly (Roscommon Gaels) and Ross Timothy (St. Croan’s), who won the senior men’s cup with Abu Dhabi Na Fianna last weekend. Pic courtesy of St. Brigid’s GAA.

11

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople

‘The Fro Will Go’ at CrossFit Croí to support Join Our Boys Trust

Roscommon mum Paula Naughton and her husband Padraic have issued a heartfelt thanks to James Cuddy, finalist in Ireland’s Fittest Family, and Patrice Kenny, CrossFit Croí Athlone, for the action-packed fundraising day planned for Sunday, February 13th.

The family also wishes to acknowledge the great support received from Paul Farrell and the team at Alter Ego, Athlone. The funds raised will support the completion of a purpose-built home for the three beautiful and courageous Naughton boys, Archie (16), George (11), and Isaac (11).

‘The Fro Must Go’ restyling event

will take place on the day and the public still have an opportunity to decide on the final style of ‘Mohawk Viking’, ‘Mullet & Mo’, or ‘Everything must Go’ at idonate. ie/fundraiser/11424836_the-fromust-go.html.

CrossFit Croí will also host a marathon workout on the day to support the boys. Teams of four will compete at various levels and the team that accumulates the most assault bike calories on the day will be crowned the winners.

In 2012, when Archie was six and the twins George and Isaac were two and a half, all three boys were diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a

catastrophic muscle-wasting disease that will eventually impact on the boys’ ability to walk, use their limbs, or even hug the people they love. Archie, George, and Isaac are all paralysed and in wheelchairs.

They are now struggling to use their arms.

The Join Our Boys Trust was set up in 2014. The aim of the Trust is twofold: to design and build a purpose-built house that will accommodate Archie, George, and Isaac for as long as they require it, and to fund research into finding a cure for DMD disease.

Since the Trust was established, enough money has been raised to build the house in Roscommon

Town. However, an additional €300,000 is required to ensure the house is fully kitted out with the equipment needed to ensure the boys’ complex needs are adequately met.

On December 6th last, the Trust launched one of its biggest fundraising campaigns to date to help raise €300,000 to get the family into their home.

The family feels there is finally light at the end of the tunnel and will, with your continued support, very soon be in their purpose-built house. Everyone can help Archie, George, and Isaac and their Mum and Dad get into their home by donating at joinourboys.org/donate/.

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Spring has arrived: Buy early and don’t be disappointed.

Vegetables Just arrived - Early seed potatoes, onion sets, shallots, red onions, vegetable seeds are half the price of pre-packed seeds, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, lettuce, leeks, and turnips.

Anne-Marie Treacy, Paula Treacy, and Benny Noone pictured in the Railway Bar, Roscommon recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

‘Noel was a gentleman and a great politician’ Connaughton in tribute to the late Noel Treacy Former county councillor and ex-Mayor of Roscommon Martin Connaughton has paid tribute to his close friend, the late parliamentarian Noel Treacy.

Mr. Treacy, who died last week, was a former Fianna Fáil TD in Galway-East, having served for almost thirty years. He also served as Minister of State on seven occasions.

Remembered as a hardworking and very popular politician, Mr Treacy’s death at just 70 years of age

led to warm tributes across the political spectrum (as reported in last week’s Roscommon People).

This week, former Roscommon county councillor Martin Connaughton issued his own tribute to his late friend.

“The first time I met Noel Treacy was in 1969, when he was just 17 years of age. He was already a very good (mart) auctioneer.

Noel was a great judge of stock and worked at all the sales in Co. Galway.

“He knew all the farmers, where they were from and who their family were.

He was a mighty man for names, and was so well cut out for politics. He was first elected in a by-elec-

Martin Connaughton

tion in 1982, which was caused by the death of Fianna Fáil TD Johnny Callanan. He went on to serve under three Taoisigh, was elected at every election, and served for 29 years in all”.

Martin Connaughton and Noel Treacy became great friends, and when Martin himself successfully

entered local politics, it was the Galway man who launched all of his campaigns.

“He launched all my campaigns in Hamrock’s of Athleague. He had a great personality. He was a great man. As a politician he achieved a lot, working very hard for his constituents. As a man, I never heard a person say a bad word about him. He was a gentleman. He knew everyone and they all liked him.

“It was a great privilege to be his friend. I want to take this opportunity to extend my sincere sympathy to Noel’s wife Mary and family on their great loss. May he rest in peace”.

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12

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique

take on life ...

The Eubanks have all the boxing gifts, but their behaviour has demeaned the sport It’s a bit of a sporting special this week, as our man Frank focuses on sportstars of wildly contrasting levels of charm and popularity… with musings too on Ireland’s win over Wales, and Mack Hansen’s starring role…

I could never deny that sport has played a huge part in my life, both as a participant and as a supporter. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a big passion for the big four (Gaelic football, hurling, rugby, and soccer), with more than a passing interest in golf, tennis and equestrian sports.

When I was a young lad, boxing was absolutely huge – especially heavyweight boxing. I grew up on the extraordinary exploits of the likes of Sonny Liston, Smokin’ Joe Frazier, Kenny Norton, George Foreman

(of the George Foreman grill fame), and the greatest of them all, Muhammad Ali. Back then, heavyweights were box office.

During those years, even in England, decidedly limited fighters such as Billy Walker, Jack Bodell, Joe Bugner, and Henry Cooper (of Enry’s hammer fame) regularly packed out boxing arenas, earning huge sums of money for themselves and getting reputations that their ability barely deserved.

Somewhere along the line, a bit like my fondness for certain types of food, my interest in boxing waned. This was more than likely mainly due to the many scandals that always seemed to be bubbling under the surface, like bout-fixing allegations and mafia involvement.

It wasn’t until the 1980s, when we had Wee Barry (McGuigan) arrive on the scene, that my interest was somewhat revived.

Who will ever forget the night he took the world featherweight title in 1985, defeating the previously unbeaten Eusebio Pedroza in Loftus Road football stadium in London?

Mikeen Roarke’s has seen many a big crowd down through the years,

Rachael and Leona are great sporting ambassadors When it comes to popular and likeable sportspeople, it would be hard to top Ireland’s racing queen, Rachael Blackmore, who won the Irish Champion Hurdle in Leopardstown on Sunday.

The unbeaten Honeysuckle defended his crown to win his 14th consecutive race, beating a small but talented field into submission. It says something for the popularity of both horse and jockey that they got such a huge reception from the big attendance even before they raced at all!

Meanwhile, the reception when they entered the winners’ enclosure after the race would make the hair stand on your head!

The contrast between the reception they got with all the cheers and clapping, and the boos and jeers Rachael Blackmore for Eubank Jr (see main item) was amazing. Two winners – one loved for her talent, humility, and graciousness, while the other one is unpopular for all the reasons I’ve highlighted. I wonder if for all his posturing and arrogance, the boxer would secretly like to get the type of reception that Rachael (and Honeysuckle) got?

The whole world is talking of Irish superstar sportswomen, and given the form and class of Katie Taylor, the aforementioned Leona Maguire, and many more, it is certainly a wonderful era for Irish sport. It’s a privilege to witness it. Those three in particular are at the very top of their respective sports and an absolute credit to our little island.

Leona Maguire

but that night the place was literally packed to the rafters. Just as well that the health and safety inspectors were McGuigan supporters!

Wee Barry single-handedly put boxing back on the map in Ireland. While this was mostly because of his ability, it also had much to do with the Clones man’s amazing relationship with his manager Barney Eastwood and the song ‘Thank you very much, Mr Eastwood’, a parody on Barry’s post-fight interviews, which became a big hit for Dermot Morgan. Sadly, McGuigan’s relationship with Eastwood was to deteriorate dramatically later on, and eventually ended up in the High Court.

I lost interest in boxing again after Barry retired. However, some time later (still in the 1980s), Steve Collins came along and got us all going again. The ‘Celtic Warrior’ won the world super middleweight title on March 18th 1995, when, in a neverto-be-forgotten fight, he beat the eccentric and unbeaten English boxer Chris Eubank in Millstreet, Co. Cork. He repeated the dose a year later when he beat the Englishman again. Collins also twice defeated Nigel Benn, the other member of the

threesome who fought each other a number of times in great fights during that wonderful era. He retired undefeated in 1997 as the most successful Irish boxer of recent times.

However, for all of Collins’ great achievements, it was Eubank who left the biggest mark on the boxing world. To me, he was the most arrogant, obnoxious, insufferable person that ever was! He seemed to love to be hated, and his actions both inside and outside the ring would annoy even the most mild-mannered of people.

Anyway, I had forgotten all about these lads and even about boxing itself until last weekend, when I went through the sports channels looking (in vain) for any station that might be showing the golf history-maker, Leona Maguire, as she became the first ever Irish lady to win a LPGA tournament. There wasn’t a sign of her anywhere, but in my search I came across a big boxing contest in Cardiff, featuring (of all people) Chris Eubank Jr and Welshman Liam Williams, a fight that everyone agreed was a big grudge match.

They say the an apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and Eubank Jr cer-

tainly didn’t. Everything his father was, so was his son the other night – obnoxious, arrogant, insufferable, and condescending. Though he won convincingly, it was a most unpopular win. For the first time in my life (that I can recall), neither fighter acknowledged each other at the end of the fight, and it was obvious all through that Williams absolutely detested the young Eubank.

Not since when his father was boxing have I ever been so against any boxer. My wife thought I’d lost my mind as I shouted at the telly, but (despite my promptings) in the end, Eubank won. True to form, he antagonised the fans with his actions afterwards. You would’ve loved if Williams knocked him out, but in truth, the Welshman (while brave) was outclassed, and never looked close to wiping the smile off the arrogant Eubank’s face.

He is now on the radar to become a world champion, but whatever he does, it looks as if he too is more interested in being a figure of controversy, rather than someone the sporting public actually likes. It is a pity, because like his father, he’s actually a talented fighter.

And finally… a pat on the back for Matt

Finally for this week, and with apologies to the woman who recently told me that she likes my articles, except for when I write about sports, I have to finish with a comment about the rugby and Ireland’s Six Nations victory over Wales.

It was a win that, while expected, still had to be delivered, and one that was carried out with the minimum of fuss. However, what’s most on my mind is the wonderful performance by Connacht’s Mack Hansen in his first international, and the way he answered all those who criticised his selection – especially the rugby writer on the Daily Mail, Hugh Farrelly, who is constantly railing against the selection of players like CJ Stander, Bundee Aki, and Hansen himself on the Irish team.

We all know that these players were not born in Ireland, but all have met the criteria laid down by the rugby chiefs. Indeed, Hansen, whose mother was born in Cork, should not be questioned at all about his Irish credentials.

His arrival in Galway to play for Connacht has really enlivened the rugby world, not only in the west, but now also in the entire country.

All other top rugby countries use players who weren’t born on their shores, with the All Blacks, England and Scotland among them. So in my opinion, there is little point in continually going on about players like Stander and Aki, both of whom have given great service to their adopted country. Instead, we should applaud players like Mack Hansen for his excellent performance on Saturday, and hope he continues to show such good form for province and country.

If selected against the French this weekend, may he deliver another man of the match performance and help us get another win in a very difficult and competitive championship.

‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Necrology Wall beset by controversy from very beginning!

Following what has been described as ‘repeated acts of vandalism’, Dublin Cemeteries Trust has made a decision to ‘discontinue’ a memorial wall (also called the Necrology Wall) at Glasnevin Cemetery, which was erected as part of our nation’s history, marking the years 19161923.

Proud Irish men and women will understand the significance of this timeline as it encompasses our Easter Rising and marks the end of our brief, but never-to-be-forgotten, divisive Civil War, which tragically included the assassination of (in my opinion) the greatest Irish man that ever lived, Michael Collins.

While I don’t agree, nor do I condone vandalism of any description, I have to say it was kind of obvious that someone somewhere was going to get ticked off the second it was announced this memorial would include the names of those who died wearing a British uniform. I bear absolutely no disrespect to the dead, even the thuggish members of the Black and Tans, and it is definitely not my intention to (as the saying goes) trample on their graves. These people still have families and loved ones who remember them, and who feel their loss.

However, I have to wonder why, given all we’ve been through (800 years of oppression), our Government thought it’d be good PR to commemorate those who intimidated, tortured and murdered Irish citizens, side by side on a wall with the courageous men

and women who laid down their lives for our freedom. Besides, isn’t it highly disrespectful to the cherished memories of those forty innocent little children – who despite being a threat to nobody, lost their precious lives because they were caught up in the crossfire – to be listed on a wall that also bears the names of those who killed them?

I will stress it again – I do not condone violence. However, so seismic were the years be-

It seems we’re the filling in the have-andthe-have-nots sandwich!

The cost of living for taxpayers in this country has soared to such an extent it has overtaken Covid as the number one concern for most families – mine included! However, despite their gaggle of contradictory assurances regarding the provision of grants, bonuses, and schemes, it seems that feeding our families and paying our bills is not really a top priority for our Government. I mean, if it were, why would they be lining the already deep pockets of the Secretary General of the Department of Health Robert Watt with a disgraceful pay hike to the tune of €81,000 of our money?

Yes, once again you and me are the filling in the have-and-the-have-nots sandwich, while the minted Mr. Watt and his handiwork, triumphs, achievements and performances within the Department of Health remain a total mystery to us!

Why? Because we’re too busy putting our energies into ekeing out a living on minimum wage! But hey, the fact that he can comfortably afford to pay his ESB bill and put an abundance of food on his table using his eye-watering nearly €300,000 a year salary is definitely public knowledge!

Mind you, as Watt is a civil servant and not a politician, it’s unlikely he gives a flying fig what we, the general public, think of his good fortune. In fact, annoyed though we are over his pay rise, I believe our ire should really be directed at his boss, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, whose decision (and the Government’s decision) to approve this will not bode well.

The menthol coldness of a February frost is upon us, Minister Donnelly! It has not gone unnoticed by taxpayers struggling to heat their homes, those same families grappling with the shocking findings regarding a HSErun CAMHS in Kerry, and you and Mr. Watt were recently swanning around sunny Dubai attending a wellness expo junket?

How thoughtless! How inappropriate! I’d hate to be the poor spin doctor tasked with ‘reframing’ this shambles, because the optics don’t look good!

As someone who’s feeling the cost-ofliving-pinch, I’m betting the frostbite from the mountain of mistrust now building up against you and your colleagues Minister Donnelly may, come the next general election, make for very treacherous conditions indeed!

tween 1916-1923, it’s entirely understandable that Irish people – passionate about our history – would still harbour bitterness regarding another country’s brutal legacy of colonialism over us.

Full disclosure here, but the idea of our oppressors’ names being given top billing alongside our dead heroes, innocent children and civilians made me feel so nauseous, I vowed never to visit that wall! Why? Because I consider it to be

deeply hurtful and, let’s be honest, a betrayal by our Government.

This is not the first time the Necrology Wall has been surrounded by controversy. Who could forget that wreath-laying ceremony of 2016, which stated for all the world to see (making a mockery of our national language in my opinion) ‘Eírí Amach Na Cásca’, placing the fada over the wrong letter. Our fada is a diacritic mark, which when placed above a letter (or a vowel in our case) indicates a specific pronunciation. But hey, we were only very publicly celebrating the centenary of our Rising and our Irishness, so why would the likes of Heather Humphreys (who was laughably the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht at the time) care about such trivialities as our national tongue and our culture? Sorry Heather, but wasn’t that your job? For the record, the correct spelling, which has since been rectified, is Éirí Amach Na Cásca.

I find it a disgrace, although a contentious issue from the start, that this memorial wall has been vandalised in this manner, and I believe the culprits, when caught, should be prosecuted. I hope the Dublin Cemeteries Trust will rethink their total discontinuation of the wall and, instead, re-design it so that it solely commemorates, preserves, reflects, and honours the memories of those Irish men, women, and children who died so you and me could live! Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha.

Let’s put an end to the ‘mean girls’ attitude!

Nicola Coughlan

Galway-born actress Nicola Coughlan, AKA ‘the wee lesbian’ from my favourite sitcom Derry Girls, and known for her role as Penelope Featherington/Lady Whistledown in Bridgerton, has taken to Twitter to ask people to ‘stop commenting’ on her appearance.

This talented, stunning actress was so courteous in her request to the Twitterati, saying: “If you have an opinion about my body, please, please don’t share it with me”. It literally brought tears to my eyes. Not only does it show that given by her response, Nicola was clearly raised by parents who taught her manners (and well done to them, they did an amazing job with their stunning girl), it also showed that Nicola is distressed by these constant bodyshaming jibes.

As a grandmother to a beautiful teenage girl, the core of Nicola’s polite request really upset me. We all have bodysensitive and self-esteem issues, I get that. None of us are ‘picture-perfect’, and that includes many an air-brushed, heavily-filtered model who graces the pages of glossy magazines. Believe me, I’ve edited (at their request) plenty of cover-shot photos in my day!

What I don’t get is the way some women feel it’s okay to cruelly body-shame other women, adopting this whole ‘mean girls’ persona to bring them down. Remember ladies – body-shaming and breaking each other makes us weak, but if we stand together and empower each other, it’ll not only make us confident, it’ll make us strong. That for me is the single most important lesson I can teach my granddaughter!

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople

THIS WEEK...On The Political Beat This week, local public representatives discuss savings on utility bills, refuge spaces in Roscommon, apprenticeship backlogs, and talks with school secretaries and caretakers…

Families could save €1,000 – Naughten

Independent TD Denis Naughten has urged families to shop around in order to save money on utilities such as electricity, phone, broadband, and health insurance.

“Shopping around and switching provider could not be easier with approved comparison sites such as switcher.ie or bonkers.ie. Not only will they identify the best deal for your family but (they) will do the switching for you as well,” the TD said.

“There are significant savings to be made. For example, in switching supplier, a customer consuming an average amount of energy could save up to €148 on an annual electricity bill”.

Deputy Naughten added that consumers could save up to €300 on mobile phone packages and between €500 and €1,000 on health insurance by using price comparison websites. He also called on families to assist older neighbours who may not have Internet access.

Dolan calls for more refuge places

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan has highlighted the need for more refuge places in Roscommon for victims of domestic violence following the RTÉ Investigates programme which showed an increase in cases during lockdown.

“I spoke in the Seanad last week with Minister Helen McEntee on the need for places in towns around the country, especially in nine counties, including Roscommon,” Senator

ST. ANNE’S National School

Dolan said.

“The level of abuse within homes is distressing and statistics show that this happens in every town and both women and men can be in abusive relationships”.

The Fine Gael Senator added that while the Minister for Justice was working on a new domestic and gender-based strategy, violent behavior must be challenged.

“Women’s Aid have a 24/7 national freephone helpline on 1800-341900 and this is also for friends and family who have concerns. The Roscommon Safe Link in Boyle also offers counselling and support via roscommonsafelink. ie,” she concluded.

Fitz: Action needed on apprenticeship backlogs

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has called for further action to be taken to clear the backlog of apprentices waiting to return to training.

“The Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris, recognised the problem and hired more staff to deal with the backlogs – but the progress being made is too slow. On the current format, it was expected the backlog for phase two apprentices wouldn’t be cleared until at least the end of this year. And that is without any further delays or hiccups,” Deputy Fitzmaurice said.

“The construction industry is crying out for qualified trades and crafts people. If we have any hope of meeting building targets for homes and combatting the housing crisis then we need to get these trained people on the ground faster.

“This backlog at apprentice level will have a domino effect across a lot of targets and people’s lives if further action is not taken”.

Minister must re-engage with secretaries and caretakers Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has said Minister for Education Norma Foley must re-engage with school secretaries and caretakers and raised concerns regarding the adjournment of talks between the Department and trade union Fórsa.

“Secretaries and caretakers have been fighting for respect and equality for decades, yet the Department continues to drag their feet,” Deputy Kerrane said.

“This behaviour is particularly shocking and frustrating given the Tánaiste gave a commitment as far back as October 2020 that his Government would address this.

“School secretaries and caretakers are invaluable members of our schools and our communities, often working above and beyond their job requirements. They work on the frontline, and are the first port of call for parents and students.

Without them, our schools would simply not function.

“All they want is the pay equality, improved working conditions and pensions that they are entitled to.

“They cannot be expected to continue to sign on when school buildings are closed. This is not equality, and puts them in an incredibly precarious position over the school holidays”.

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16

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Ultimate test of new towns plan will be shop reopenings The vast majority of the people who live in Boyle and Strokestown are probably blissfully unaware of it, but their little towns are presently at the heart of a bold new national strategy aimed at tackling one of the biggest scourges of rural Ireland at the moment – vacant premises, and dereliction on the streets and town centres – with little but tumbleweeds blowing up and down them all over the country on a Tuesday or Wednesday.

In driving around Roscommon and the rest of the west and the midlands pretty much every day over the last 30 years in the old day job, I have to say this was one of the most heartbreaking parts of the daily routine – coming up against closure signs on coffee shops and filling stations. These were places where I not only used to spend a few bob on a mug of tea or a can of coke, but where I’d strike up a chat with a friendly owner or staff member, who would inevitably become a contact on my phone and a friend over ten years or more.

One town in County Meath used to really pull at the heartstrings when I’d drive through it towards the end of my time there. Where once a very vibrant industry existed right in the middle of it, today the gates are locked solid and there’s little but dereliction there, with closed up shops and houses. To make it even worse, even the village church went into dereliction too in recent times!

It is against this appalling backdrop that something had to be done. ‘Town Centre First’ is the snazzy name of a brand new all-singing and alldancing strategy launched last week in the town of Moate (which has itself also seen busier days) and containing over 30 actions aimed at giving these small towns the tools and resources they need to become more viable and attractive places in which to live, work, visit and run a business in the challenging years to come.

The question is – is it already too late for some of the towns in decline, and are these new strategies going far enough in giving enough hard cash and professional support to the locals to make a real difference?

The Government says the new policy has not millions but billions of euro behind it – coming from investment spread across schemes such as the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), Croí Conaithe (Towns) Fund, and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. These are the rather complicated sounding schemes that have indeed changed the face of places like The Square in Roscommon town and Boyle in recent months – the type of initiative that is taking out the old remains of what’s left of the Royal Hotel in Boyle and going to change it into what we are told will be a bustling new enterprise hub in the heart of the town in the months to come.

For years now, community workers like Vincent McGowan in Ballyleague, Jonathan Cassidy in Strokestown, Kathleen Shanagher in Roscommon town, and Tony Waldron in Ballintubber, have argued strongly that it’s not just a grant that

The Gaelic Chieftain Sculpture overlooking The Battlefield at Curlew Pass at Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

these towns needed – it’s an actual permanent presence by the county council and the agencies on the ground there – and the establishment of a little office when they can sit and meet the locals every week to work on projects.

The amount of paperwork and red tape behind an application for funding and putting together a proper strategic plan for a town or village nowadays is gigantic, and usually puts off local volunteers who have no speciality in these admin areas.

That’s why I am really thrilled to see that for the first time, designated towns in the new scheme will gain their own dedicated town regeneration officers as part of this new plan. These people will be hands-on and crucial to driving future development.

They tell us the new policy also contains a range of actions designed to achieve key objectives such as social and economic revival in towns, and the provision of housing, as well as addressing challenges like vacancy and derelict buildings. There’s no end to the wish list in this particular category.

For the doubting Thomases out there (and there are lots of them, believe me), what happens in the town of Boyle when it emerges from the current spending spree on regeneration will be watched most closely – and will form the basis for the ultimate verdict most people will come up with as these schemes continue to be rolled out.

Boyle was a pilot town for the first Town Centre Living Initiative (TCLI) project and I have watched the changes taking place there

with a great deal of interest. The project focused on the historic centre of the town, recognising the need to support the maintenance of historic buildings. Boyle received funding for two projects: the Boyle Regeneration Project, and a transformation project focusing on the King House Cultural Quarter. Work is underway on both, I believe, but alongside the State investment there’s been a serious amount of private investment there too.

In 2017, Brian Nerney, the owner of the former Roscommon Herald offices, converted the vacant premises into a remote working hub – giving the building back the name of its previous historical role as ‘The Spool factory’. I have been there a few times to use the meeting facilities and the high-speed broadband, and despite the pandemic, the place is doing very well. To me this is as important, if not more crucial, than the role of the State in town regeneration.

Places like Ballyleague and Strokestown are now targeted for the next stage of investment in some of these schemes, but for the plans to be entirely successful and ‘lift all boats’, we are going to need to see private sector investment too, alongside the State grants.

There is evidence in both towns that this is already taking place. The individuals who sit on the town teams in both areas are people of great vision – with their hearts in the right place – so I remain absolutely optimistic that, when they get their new regeneration officers in place to work

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with them, these towns will indeed make great strides forward.

The Government says it is determined to act on the fact that many of our town centres, unfortunately, are underutilised for housing, and have limited choice. Dozens of flats and former living areas over derelict shops and pubs remain empty, so there’s to be a drive for greater and more mixed supply of private, affordable and social housing in some towns. They hope that by converting empty buildings into housing, they can also attack that staggering housing waiting list issue that persists nationwide, and in turn reinvigorate independent retail and promote town centre living.

Ultimately, the test of whether or not the new strategy and the lovely language used above is effective or not will be whether or not the next time you drive through the town of Boyle or Strokestown, you see cars and vans and lorries parked up and people going in and out of businesses and spending money (and not just on the weekend).

I had that most positive experience myself in the last seven days when driving back from Carrickon-Shannon into the village of Rooskey when we were more than heartened to see a filling station that had been closed down previously now back open and lots of people calling to trade their again.

We congratulate the McGuires on their achievement. We wish them well for the future because at the end of the day the old adage certainly applies – “actions speak louder than words”.

GOING OUT (again!)

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

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Laura Corcoran, Sean Healy and Colleen Cauneen pictured enjoying a night out in JJ’s, Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Shane Doolin, Sinead Collins and Eoin Keenan pictured recently in the Railway Bar, Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Shannon Whitlow and Erin Connell pictured during a night out in JJ’s, Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Sean Casey and Kellie Freeman pictured enjoying a night out in JJ’s, Roscommon, recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

John Croghan, Trish Croghan and Tony Franklin pictured on a night out in the Railway Bar, Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Morgan McElroy, Sarah Kelly and John Gaffney pictured on a night out in Larry’s Bar, Roscommon recently.

Pic: Mick McCormack

Keveen Tsakap, Caithlin Shaw, Joanne Devaney and Kate Liddy Cormican pictured recently in JJ’s, Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Saerlaith Molloy, Michelle O’Donnell and Owen Colleran enjoying a night out in JJ’s, Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Liam Lohan, Declan Casey, Sean Lohan and Tom Bannon pictured on a night out in JJ’s, Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roisin Brady, Aine Cunnane, Rachel Flanagan and Colleen Cauneen enjoying a night out in JJ’s, Roscommon, recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

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‘Soil sampling programme a shambles’ IFA Environment Chairman Paul O’Brien has this week described the implementation of the Pilot Soil Sampling Programme as “a shambles”.

Mr. O’Brien said the failure to organise timely soil sampling for those who are were accepted into the programme means that many applicants will now miss out.

“Due to delays in soil sampling, some farmers who were accepted in December have taken the decision to press ahead with lime and slurry applications, which makes sampling over the coming weeks pointless. Owing to the delays in implementation, many of the farmers who were initially accepted into the programme have been

forced to complete soil sampling at their own expense,” Mr. O’Brien said.

According to the IFA, just 7,800 farmers were accepted from 15,800 applicants, which suggests the programme is underfunded.

“If the Department of Agriculture is serious about encouraging farmers to embrace climate action, this is not the way to do it. At a time when fertiliser prices have reached unprecedented levels, the need for timely soil sampling has never been more important,” Mr. O’Brien said.

January rainfall has been below average and farmers are keen to take advantage of excellent ground conditions to get slurry and NPK fertilisers onto grass and arable crops. However, un-

der the scheme it’s not advised to sample soils which have received fertiliser applications or slurry in the previous three months.

Paul O’Brien said it’s vital that the number of farms sampled and the flow of results increases significantly in the coming weeks so farmers will have soil analysis results available to make informed decisions around the purchase of fertilisers.

“Soil sampling and analysis will play an important future role in managing soils in an environmentally sustainable way; however, any future schemes must be better designed and have the practical realities of day-to-day farming in mind,” he concluded.

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IFA President Tim Cullinan met with Tánaiste Leo Varadkar recently.

IFA meets with Tánaiste over pressing issues The IFA President, Tim Cullinan, met with An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar recently over issues facing the agricultural sector including Brexit, CAP and climate targets.

The meeting was also attended

by Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Martin Heydon.

Following talks, Mr. Cullinan said that everyone in the sector understands the need to work towards an emissions reduction of between 22 and 30 per cent.

“This must be achieved by continued research work to reduce methane output per animal not by using a blunt instrument to limit output. IFA is totally opposed to any imposed limits on production,” he said.

“The Tánaiste was clear that there has been no discussion

at Government level about restricting output at farm level in any sector”.

The IFA President said the right balance must be struck between the three pillars of sustainability, environmental, economic and social.

“The emphasis must be on reducing methane output per animal. We need to allow time for what are very promising scientific solutions to take effect. We cannot use a blunt instrument to address our environmental challenges, which would have significant economic and social consequences,” he said.

“Costs have surged on farms this year and farmers cannot afford to have further restrictions placed on them”.

Mr. Cullinan said that was also made clear to the Tánaiste that

owing to CAP, a cohort of the most productive farmers would have their incomes “decimated”.

“The Government must come up with additional funding to support the beef, sheep and tillage sectors,” he said.

“On Brexit, we reminded the Tánaiste that there were still serious threats to Irish farming and that some sectors are already suffering the consequences.

The Brexit Adjustment Reserve must be available for our sector,” he added.

“There are also labour shortages in farms and in the processing sector. While there has been an allocation of work permits for the sector, there are significant backlogs in the processing of permits which is causing great frustration”.

There were over 500 animals on offer on Thursday last with prices and trade similar to previous weeks with an excellent clearance taking place.

The bullock and heifer rings witnessed strong demand again this week with the quality store bullocks making up to €2.98 a kilo and heavier lots making up to €1,780 or €2.67 a kilo.

The heifer ring saw the quality stores exceed €3 a kilo with demand for the forward heifers also very good. The number of dry cows on offer remains strong also with the top quality lots making up to €2.51 a kilo.

The weanling rings saw the bulls peak at €3.82 a kilo and the heifer weanlings peaking at €3.28 a kilo. Suck calves and breeding stock noticed a good clearance with numbers on offer continuing to grow.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1,230 to €1,720 per head. Springers made from €570 to €2,040 per head, and young calves made from €50 to €430 with runners making from €380 to €840.

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

All sales commence at 11 am.

Sample prices for bullocks: Sim 470kgs €1390, Ch 480kgs €1390, AA 490kgs €1200, Ch 520kgs €1550, BBX 520kgs €1530, Ch 520kgs €1500, Ch 555kgs €1510, AA 560kgs €1390, Ch 625kgs €1590, Lm 665kgs €1780, Ch 680kgs €1680.

Heifers: Lm 420kgs €1150, BBX 425kgs €1120, AA 420kgs €1080, Lm 455kgs €1390, Lm 495kgs €1380, Sim 480kgs €1320, Ch 640kgs €1750, Ch 685kgs €1740, Her 665kgs €1620.

Dry cows: Lm 475kgs €1050, Lm 490kgs €1050, Ch 875kgs €2200, Lm 780kgs €1780, Ch 865kgs €1690, Ch 740kgs €1670, Shx 735kgs €1650, Fr 670kgs €1160.

Weanling bulls: Ch 285kgs €1090, Ch 260kgs €960, AAX 295kgs €850, Ch 245kgs €820, Ch 420kgs €1130, Ch 315kgs €1060, Lm 375kgs €1050, Lm 415kgs €1140.

Weanling heifers: Ch 265kgs €850, Ch 255kgs €850, Lm 290kgs €850, Lm 390kgs €1090, Lm 320kgs €1050, Lm 370kgs €1000, Lmx 320kgs €950, Lmx 440kgs €1280.

Roscommon MART WATCH Numbers were slightly up this week at our sale on Friday, February 4th, with a flying trade for all classes. Heifers ranged from an average of €2.69 per kilo up to €3.29 per kilo with all lots sold with the exception of one, and dry cows made from an average of €2.18per kilo up to €2.57 per kilo. Customers were active again this week both online and at the ringside.

This Friday, February 11th, at 11 am, we will have our spring sale of bullocks and general sale of heifers and dry cows.

There was a steady trade for hoggets this week at our sale on

Wednesday, February 9th, with similar numbers on offer. Hoggets made up to €160, stag ewes fetched up to €166, ewes and lambs made up to €350 for five ewes with ten lambs at foot, and in-lamb ewes made up to €180.

Our next sheep sale for lambs and cast ewes is on Wednesday, February 16th, at 11 am.

Our sheep scanning service is available from Wednesday next.

The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am.

Please note that all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com.

Cast ewes made from €40 to €166 per lot, ewes with two lambs at foot made up to €350, ewes with one lamb at foot made up to €300, and in-lamb ewes made up to €180.

Sample prices for heifers: Char X 675kgs €2000, Char X 635kgs €1790, Char X 625kgs €1780, Lim X 620kgs €1770, Char X 660kgs €1760, Lim 555kgs €1540, Char X 510kgs €1530, Lim 495kgs €1490, Lim 495kgs €1490, Char X 455kgs €1420, Lim X 390kgs €1250, Char X 435kgs €1320, Char X 405kgs €1260, Lim X 455kgs €1500, Char X 475kgs €1370.

Dry cows: Char 1060kgs €2450, Char X 885kgs €2250, Char X 840kgs €2160, Lim X 795kgs €1930, Char 815kgs €1890, Char X 845kgs €1840, Char X 790kgs €1780, AAX 680kgs €1670, Lim X 695kgs €1590, Simm X 750kgs €1640, SAX 750kgs €1650, BBX 685kgs €1440.

Finished hoggets: 64kgs €160, 55.4kgs €158, 54.2kgs €157, 52.6kgs €155, 50kgs €152, 48.5kgs €151, 50.3kgs €150, 49.7kgs €150, 48kgs €148, 46.6kgs €147.

Store hoggets: 42.4kgs €125, 41.5kgs €124, 33.6kgs €106.

19

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

FarmingPeople

Macra members to plant over 15,000 trees Macra na Feirme members across the entire country will plant over 15,000 native trees in the coming weeks to enhance biodiversity by providing a habitat for wildlife and sequester carbon over the decades ahead.

This is a further demonstration of the commitment of the organisation and its

members to ensuring we all play our part in the need to address climate change.

“As young people, we are concerned about the future of our environment, in Ireland, we are lucky to live in the climate we do, we are fortunate to come from a country with the sustainability credentials

that our agriculture sector has, in particular, which needs to be protected and enhanced,” said Macra na Feirme National President John Keane.

The initiative is a joint one between Macra na Feirme and Trees on the Land which will see members from all regions sowing trees

in their locality.

The initiative was brought forward by Macra’s national sub-committee on rural youth which wanted a project to span the entire breadth of the organisation to show our members’ commitment to mitigation measures for climate change.

Over the next number

of months, further initiatives such as this one will be rolled out.

“The trees planted by our members will be growing for years to come, we as young people are concerned about our environment and future. We need political leaders across the globe to make changes that are con-

Hunts urged to give notice and seek consent before crossing farms ICSA president Dermot Kelleher has called on all hunts to respect the wishes of farmers when it comes to accessing their lands.

“There can be all sorts of reasons why a farmer may not want a hunt to cross their farm. So, if a farmer deems that that it is not appropriate for horses and hounds to pass through their land on a particular date, then those wishes should be respected,” he said.

According to Horse Sport Ireland there are over 30,000 mounted hunt followers and 300 hunt clubs in every corner of the country. Hunting constitutes the largest equestrian activity in Ireland during the hunting season which runs from October to March.

Mr Kelleher said: “It is now the busiest time of year on most farms with sheep lambing, and cows calving. Many farmers are on duty 24 hours a day and it is unacceptable that a farmer should re-

ceive a text message informing them that a hunt will cross their farm the following day, and to make sure their cattle are in, and their sheep are out of the way. That’s just not good enough.

“The time for getting farmers’ consent is when these events are being planned and routes are being decided. And if you do not have the explicit consent of the farmer, then you must choose an alternative route.

“Working farms are not playgrounds; livestock can be dangerous, and they can equally be panicked by the appearance of a fast-moving hunt and excitable hounds.

“In the interest of fostering good relationships with local farmers, I would urge all clubs to seek consent well in advance of any hunt taking place and to respect the decision of any farmer who says they cannot accommodate a hunt during these busy times”.

For more information call Teagasc Castlerea 094 9620160 Enda O’Hart

Gerry Cregg

(Proudly serving farmers for over 62 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday, February 11th at 11a.m.

Special Spring Sale of Bullocks 30 PENS ON OFFER Also Heifers & Dry Cows -------------------Friday, February 18th at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers Also Bullocks & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. Monday, 14th February ----------------------

Tuesday, February 15th at 4 p.m.

TAMS age limit increase recognises women in farming - IFA

Tuesday, 15th February at 8pm in St. Joseph’s Hall, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Eircode F52 VW70 Speaking are local Drystock Advisors Enda O’Hart and Gerry Cregg. All welcome.

nected through science and best practice.

“The global community must address the issue of climate change with policies that make sense and allow countries with sustainable advantages to produce goods from the most sustainable regions,” Mr. Keane concluded.

IFA Farm Family & Social Affairs Chair Alice Doyle said the decision to raise the 60 per cent TAMS grant aid age limit to 66 for women recognises the importance of women in farming.

It will better support them in continuing farming until they reach retirement, she said.

At its recent AGM, IFA had called on Minister McConalogue to increase the age limit for women farmers under TAMS. The average age of women farmers is 62 years of age.

“This decision is a step in the right direction in terms of actively encouraging women to participate, while achieving more gender equality in agriculture and enabling the next generation of women farmers,” she said.

IFA’s submission to the CAP Strategic Plan outlined the need for an increase in the age limit as a key objective in obtaining greater gender equality. It is considered an important factor to encourage more females to take on central roles in farm businesses.

The contribution of women to Irish farming is hugely important, but only 12 per cent of farmers are women. It’s hoped that this figure will be increased with more positive decisions such as this one.

Special Sale of Weanlings Also Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, 10th February ----------------------

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

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

Wednesday February 16th @11a.m.

Special Entry of 30 - 2nd Crop Suffolk X Breeding Ewes Scanned in lamb to P.B. Suffolk & Texel Rams - Due 18th March onwards Sold in pens of 5 – with 4 Twins and 1 Single in each pen ----------------------------

Sheep Scanning Service Each Wednesday - STRICTLY 9.am. to 10 a.m.

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

Dates for your Diary Tuesday, March 1st at 4 p.m.

Show & Sale of Weanlings Saturday, March 5th at 12 Noon

Organic Sale – Cattle & Sheep

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

20

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople

Advice like ‘shop around’ won’t help address the cost of living Let’s talk about ...

THE COST OF LIVING

(A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy Junior Finance Minister Seán Fleming received quite a backlash this week after responding to a question about the cost of living by suggesting that people struggling financially ‘shop around’ instead of ‘complaining’.

In the days since his comments were aired, his advice has been branded as out of touch and indifferent by members of the public and political figures alike – and in my opinion, for very good reason.

For a lot of people, Fleming’s comments came off as quite patronising towards those who’re struggling financially, especially considering the fact that he himself enjoys such a very well paying job.

Though he later clarified that his intention was just to suggest another method of saving money in addition to Government measures, the mere idea

that people who have been dealing with financial issues for quite some time never thought to shop around before this, holds no water. Opting for cheaper alternatives is often the first thing people do when money begins to run tight. It’s not as if Fleming’s advice is offering anything new for those who’re struggling financially, because they are already shopping around anyways, and at worst, his comments come off as condescending.

In reality, there is little use to asking people who’re already cutting corners to keep shopping around at this stage, because really, when does it end? How much energy does a person have to spend searching for the cheapest alternative before they can no longer be accused of ‘complaining’ about the cost of living?

There are limits to how much shopping around can really fix before practical constraints begin to come into play. After all, how far does someone have to travel for the best deal? How much time do they have to spend doing so?

Another thing that the ‘shop around’ advice fails to account for is how unviable of an option it actually is when it comes to some of the bigger expenses.

Sure, you might save a few bob by buying the store-brand biscuits instead of the name-brand ones, but people’s most significant financial strains come from elsewhere. Expenses such as household bills and rent take financial priority over everything else, and given how many times rising rent prices and energy bills have made headlines over the past number of months, it’s clear that for many, this is where the problem lies.

The solution, in turn, then lies in putting proper measures in place to help people, and in regulating companies and landlords so that we don’t see these massive price hikes.

At the end of the day, if a significant subsection of Irish people are already struggling financially, we cannot solve things by placing more of a burden on their shoulders. When you have so many people ‘complaining’ about the cost of living, it be-

McDermott calls for more urgency on local footpath works < DAN DOONER

Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott has reiterated his calls for the need to expedite work on footpaths and lighting at Hannon’s Hotel, and said the issue was a growing concern for local residents.

Cllr. McDermott raised the issue at a recent meeting of the local authority.

“It’s a huge disadvantage that we don’t have a path linking the Golf Links Road to the Athlone Road. I welcome that a design has been put in place but more urgency is needed to complete these works for the safety of walkers and cyclists,” he said.

“I live there and my own family walks that road every day so I know that it’s a major concern for the people of that area. My fellow councillors have also been pushing for these

Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott

comes less reflective of people’s lack of thriftiness, and more so reflective of a Government failing to address what is a huge problem for so many people.

The cost of living has becoming such a pressing issue lately, especially given the economic fallout of the pandemic. So many people faced monetary issues they hadn’t faced the

for walkers and cyclists” he said.

The Fianna Fáil councillor added: “The lack of a completed footpath linking Hannon’s and the hospital forces people to cross the main road, and this is particularly dangerous for young children in the area. This is something that is also urgently required and would provide an important link to the rest of the town”.

dealing with the cost of living cannot be placed on the backs of struggling people, and the Government cannot sidestep their duty in the matter. Otherwise, our ministers will continue to enjoy complete financial safety while ‘regular people’ continue to struggle – not me though, I’ve switched to store-brand crisps and saved thousands.

COVID-19 outbreak at local nursing home < DAN DOONER

works for some time”.

Cllr. McDermott said the completion of the works and the further addition of a footpath from Hannon’s Hotel to Roscommon University Hospital would be of great benefit to the town, both as a local amenity and from a tourism standpoint.

“At the moment, the road down by Hannon’s is an ‘accident waiting to happen’ and is particularly dangerous at night

scale of before during the past two years, and in response, we have a Junior Finance Minister downplay people’s resilience and the extent of their financial struggles.

Hopefully Fleming’s comments aren’t indicative of the point of view held by the rest of those in Government, but in any case, they’re disappointing to hear. The responsibility for

Management at Oakwood Private Nursing Home in Roscommon confirmed this week that the facility was dealing with an outbreak of Covid-19 but said residents who had tested positive were “presently doing well”.

Family members had raised their concerns after visiting restrictions had been implemented at the facility last week and praised management and staff for the handling of the situation.

One family member, who wished to remain anonymous, urged members of the public to be mindful of the threat still posed to those deemed atrisk in the community.

“We have an ageing population and people still need to be conscious (of

the danger) for those families at risk.

The pandemic isn’t over.

“Imposing visiting restrictions was 100 per cent the right move but it’s hard for families with loved ones in isolation. It’s very upsetting for residents and unfortunate that it happened but Oakwood is a really good nursing home and I know my relative is in good hands”.

Proprietor Declan McGarry released the following statement earlier this week: “Oakwood Private Nursing Home is experiencing an outbreak of Covid-19.

“We had effectively managed to keep our residents free from the virus until now, however, we currently have fully vaccinated residents and staff who have tested positive for the virus.

“The staff who tested positive are

self-isolating at home and the residents who tested positive are receiving person-intensive care in isolation.

We are happy to say all residents who have tested positive for Covid-19 are presently doing well.

“All national guidelines are being followed and we appreciate the support being provided by the HSE and Public Health.

“We can confirm that we have staffing contingency plans in place that are working and that we have sufficient stocks of PPE. “We would like to thank residents and family members for their ongoing support during this incredibly difficult time. We would especially like to pay tribute to all our employees for their outstanding dedication and professionalism in the care they continue to provide for our residents”.

21

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon • Commerce • Arts • People • Hospitality www.roscommonpeople.ie

Stepping into Spring ... with a Spring in our step

22

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step

Looking forward to welcoming all our customers back

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O P E N

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ALL PARTIES CATERED FOR

Things we should Dan Dooner on what to keep and what to lose!

Our appreciation for frontline staff

Call 090 66 34372 or 086 3861853 E: roscommonleisurezone@gmail.com www.roscommonleisurezone.com

Whether it’s the heroic healthcare staff and carers taking care of loved ones and neighbours, those keeping the supply chain open, or retail workers working unsociable hours, let’s continue to show our appreciation post-Covid.

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‘A huge weight has been lifted from publicans’ Cartoon by artist Malcolm Mayes, Edmonton Journal.

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During the early months of lockdown 2020 there seemed to be a huge movement of people offering their help to others.

Remember that time the HSE was inundated with applications from people, or when neighbours and sports clubs came to the aid of elderly people?

That spirit is definitely something that’s worth hanging onto.

Anouska O’Grady Lohan, who runs the popular Ned’s Bar in Knockcroghery with her husband Richard, and is the Chairperson of County Roscommon branch of Vintners Federation of Ireland, says the lifting of restrictions has relieved the pressure on publicans.

“It felt as though a huge weight was lifted from us. I don’t think we actually realised just how much pressure we were under until they were gone,” she said.

“It was great just to have the customers back sitting at the counter and not having to be running around after people for Covid certs and making sure they were seated and in groups of six”.

While praising customers and staff for their efforts in adhering to restrictions over the past two years, Anouska said the guidelines added further pressure when it came to running a pub.

“I also didn’t realise how much I wasn’t enjoying my work until the first night without restrictions. I was like a

different person behind the bar without all the extra pressure,” she said.

“We were adhering to all the guidelines because we had to.

It was our responsibility to keep staff and customers safe.

Having said that, I really don’t think one publican in the country enjoyed the last two years.

It was extremely tough but spring has arrived and hopefully it’s a case of ‘onwards and upwards’ from now on!”

“

‘I didn’t realise how much I wasn’t enjoying my work until the first night without restrictions. I was like a different person behind the bar without all the extra pressure’

Chairperson of County Roscommon branch of Vintners Federation of Ireland, Anouska O’Grady Lohan, runs the popular Ned’s Bar in Knockcroghery with her husband Richard.

23

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon

keep post-Covid…

Working from home

Let’s avoid long commutes and ‘hot-desking’ and expedite the roll-out of high-speed broadband and a proper transport system to give workers a better work-life balance.

Proper hand hygiene

Anyone else worried that it took a high profile Government campaign in order to encourage people to wash their hands?

Let’s hope it’s now second nature ... for all our sakes’!

Table service at pubs

www.roscommonpeople.ie

THINGS BETTER LEFT BEHIND…

Zoom quizzes, stag parties, hen dos etc.

Let’s be honest, a few cans with friends on Zoom was fun for the first 30 or so minutes but it quick got tiresome. No doubt it’s a terrific way to keep ly touch with family and friends abroad…but in leave it as a last resort when it comes to socialet’s lising.

Health experts everywhere

Sitting at the bar is great craic but table service would be welcomed by many people. This won’t be possible at every venue but hopefully it catches on wherever possible.

Whether it was a certificate of virology from Facebook University or regular media appearan from boffins such as Sam McConkey et al., Covid ces was the only show in town for two years.

Homemade haircuts

The freedom to be left alone!

Barbers and hairdressers across Ireland suffe PTSD dealing with some of these efforts. red

Banana bread of Instagram

Hey, maybe there are times when I’d prefer to stay home alone and binge-watch Cobra Kai! We shouldn’t need to use a global pandemic as our excuse for some peace and quiet.

Banana bread isn’t even that nice. There, I said it.

That elbow thing

You know what I’m talking about. Stop it now.

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24

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step

STAY LOCAL - SHOP LOCAL in our wonderful town

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SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS

Dating post lockdown: Are you an eager beaver or a hesi-dater?

Miriam Kerins has some advice for people who are looking forward to getting back on the dating scene…

T

he onset of the pandemic two years ago turned the entire ‘traditional’ dating scene upside down. There was no more meeting for drinks after work, no hooking up in a nightclub, and no dinner à deux of a Saturday night. Instead, many singletons across County Roscommon went online to engage in a series of virtual dates; or, if they were lucky, partake of a socially distant, masked walk! So much for good old-fashioned romance!

However, with over 90 per cent of the population now vaccinated against coronavirus, it’s safe to say that the so-called traditional face-to-face dating scene has re-emerged almost overnight.

Therefore, if you’re someone who is, in the aftermath of lockdown, loneliness and isolation, now eagerly preparing yourself to get back on the dating scene, but are feeling a bit emotionally hesitant, (as in, you’re hesi-dating – see what we did there), then check out our top three tips below.

Take it slowly If you were comfortable sticking to virtual dates during the pandemic, you may not feel you’re ready to meet up with someone in person, and that’s totally understandable. We all have different needs

and ideas regarding what’s right for us at any given time. With that in mind, why not go ahead and set that date, but arrange it for a few weeks down the line; that way you’re not just allowing yourself the time to adjust, you’re also giving society, as a whole, time to modify itself to its new, post-Covid beginnings.

Vaccine status?

In as much as we’re all emerging from this pandemic with extensive banana bread, and making the perfect ‘fakeaway’ knowledge, there’s now the need for some of us to know whether or not a potential date has been vaccinated.

While some dating apps allow singletons to add a ‘badge’ to their profile in order to alert others as to their vaccine status, there is a question around what happens if a ‘match’ hasn’t specified this.

In addition, what happens if you’re in a pub and make eye contact with someone you fancy who asks you out on the spot…do you broach the sticky subject there and then?

My advice? Go for it! Politely ask them outright, because a potential partner’s

vaccine status, (whatever it is), could also be a sign of their compatibility with you!

Remember, you’re auditioning someone for the role of ‘romantic lead’ in your life, and, if their personal ‘take’ on the pandemic and their need to be vaccinated (or not) doesn’t gel with yours, they’re clearly not right for the part!

Top tip! You could take the awkwardness out of the situation and open up the conversation by offering the other person information around your own vaccine status, and let them take it from there.

Make safety your priority If, having taken all of the precautions you feel are needed to safeguard your own wellbeing, you’re still a ‘hesi-dater’, then I suggest you opt for an outdoor activity like going for a coffee at a local restaurant with outdoor seating.

You could also go for a walk in a park to ‘people watch’, or even head to an adventure park for some fun outdoor pursuits. If you’ve got a dog, why not ask your date to join you and Fido on one of your daily walks!

25

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon

www.roscommonpeople.ie

Chamber of…OPTIMISM! Brendan Allen says the lifting of restrictions was a welcome surprise < DAN DOONER

T

President of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, Brendan Allen

s ’ e i Ad

he President of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, Brendan Allen, welcomed the recent lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, and said it was a welcome surprise for local businesses.

“It came as a surprise… but it was a good surprise.

Covid has taught us to be prepared for anything. It’s hard to believe we went through those two years, to be honest,” he said.

“The Government and health officials, who are usually very cautious people, seemed happy to lift the restrictions and that was very welcome”.

Mr. Allen said the rise in cases locally due to the Omicron variant had put added strain on business owners in recent weeks.

“There was some uncertainty around Omicron and we didn’t know whether it would bring us back to square one.

That did affect businesses, but once people realised the vaccinations were making a difference and this was a

milder variant, things began to improve,” he said.

The Chamber President highlighted some of the positive developments that have taken place in the county town in recent months.

“During the pandemic we have seen the regeneration of The Square in Roscommon. The Square is a fantastic resource and a focal point for the town for when we want to host events,” he said.

“I’m hopeful that will help to develop a new energy in the community and the town and that we can take advantage of new opportunities and developments in terms of events and festivals. We have a wonderful infrastructure which will hopefully allow us to do that now”.

Looking ahead to the spring, Mr. Allen said there was increased positivity in Roscommon town.

“We are coming back into growth and I think people are ready for that. The weather has also been good and hopefully that’s a sign of brighter things to come,” he concluded.

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Lunch served daily until 4.00 pm Sunday Lunch 12.30 - 5pm TRY OUR NEW SUNDAY LUNCH MENU

TELEPHONE: 043 33 21322 Live Music Every Saturday Night

Happy Scissors are delighted to welcome Ann-Marie Casey back to work in Roscommon and very excited for her to join Sylvia and her team at Happy Scissors. Ann-Marie has over 20 years experience in the industry and was Hairdresser of the Year 2019, Ann-Marie will be available for appointments from Wednesday the 16th of February. We would love to welcome all existing and new clients.

Earlier morning appointments can be catered for by appointment.

We will be running some exciting OPENING OFFERS....

So stay tuned to our social media both on Facebook and Instagram for all details.

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step

Paddy Finn’s

Looking forward to welcoming all our customers back

KILTEEVAN

Large function room available for all your special occasions

Live Sports

Cllr Emer

KELLY

Bringing a fresh perspective to local politics

Phone: 087 0664568 Email: emerk1999@gmail.com Facebook/Instagram/Twitter: Cllr Emer Kelly

Colm Daly, Mary Sorohan and Michael Sorohan pictured at Lanesboro Tri Club earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

Speciality Coffee Abbey House, Abbey St, Ballypheasan, Roscommon Town, F42 Y098.

Telephone: (090) 663 4801 Open from 8 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 5 pm on Saturdays

Noel Carr + Co.

Chartered Accountants Castle Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 26073 Fax: (090) 66 25023 Email: noelcarr@noelcarr.ie

Councillor JOE MURPHY

Lanesboro Tri Club back on the move! < DAN DOONER

M

embers of Lanesboro Tri Club

are delighted to be back training together following the recent lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, according to club PRO Elaine Lally.

The club had been severely restricted by lockdowns over the past two years with individual training becoming the norm.

“There were a lot of events and races cancelled last year due to Covid and that had a negative impact on mental health too because people couldn’t get out and mingle,” Elaine said.

“As well as that, when you are training for events such as Iron Man for nine months and then suddenly it’s cancelled it’s hard not to be affected.

“It’s difficult to train without races to

prepare for or without having a target and it was also hard to keep people positive at times so we got members to submit selfies and videos and we put them together to give everyone a lift.

“We are getting back into it now after training separately for such a long time and it’s great to be able to train together as a group again”.

Like many other local clubs, the social element of Lanesboro Tri Club is vital to members and the resumption of group activities has enabled people to meet again.

“We have members at all different levels and now people are getting to meet each other – sometimes for the first time – after being online during Covid,” Elaine said.

“Training alone and completing online challenges is just not the same but now

we can have a coffee and a chat and that’s so important for the mental health side of things.

“We were hugely thankful to Tonya Hand and Bernie Smith of our training committee who made a huge effort in organising training when the restrictions were in place”.

Things are now looking up once again for Lanesboro Tri Club with members back on the move.

“It’s very positive at the moment and we have lots of new members since lockdown. We are also hosting our Open Day on February 26th at our clubhouse in Lanesboro. It’s a fantastic facility with a full working gym which hadn’t really been utilised during Covid. Hopefully it will be used regularly now and into the future,” Elaine concluded.

Cathaoirleach Roscommon County Council

Telephone:

0861052197

Thomas A

Murray’s Traditional Pub Castle Street, Roscommon

Junior members, Ciara and Doireann Lally pictured with mum Elaine at Lanesboro Tri Club earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

On your bike! Grainne Egan and Fidelma Brennan pictured at Lanesboro Tri Club earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon

Positive response to Town Centre First plans See Ciaran Mullooly column on page 16 oc politicians reacted tion Officers by local authorities schemes, such as the Rural RegenL positively this week to the as a key element of the strategy eration and Development Fund publication of the Government’s which would allow County Coun(RRDF), the Urban Regeneration al

Town Centre First Strategy, which is aimed at bringing families and businesses back into towns in rural counties across the country.

Independent TD Denis Naughten said the plan be hugely beneficial to towns across Roscommon and east Galway and highlighted the appointment of Town Regenera-

cils to develop plans with the local community.

Local Minister of State Frank Feighan described the new policy as a “game-changer for Roscommon”.

“The new policy is underpinned by multi-billion euro investment spread across major Government

and Development Fund (URDF), the Crói Conaithe (Towns) Fund, and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme,” he said.

Meanwhile, Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said the policy would tackle vacancy, combat dereliction, and breathe new life into town centres.

Roscommon to benefit from biodiversity fund

The 2022 Local Biodiversity Action Fund has opened to applications from local authorities. The fund increased to €1.5 million in 2022 and supports locally-led projects that align with actions under the National Biodiversity Action Plan.

First launched in 2018, the re-named Local Biodiversity Action Fund offers funding to assist local authorities in the implementation of actions in the National

Biodiversity Action Plan.

Funding to this scheme has increased by 200% since 2019. The funding will be made available, in line with a grant application and award process, to local authorities’ biodiversity officers in the counties that have them, and heritage officers, subject to certain criteria.

The scheme, operated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Depart-

Sightseeing Cruises & Angling Trips

ment of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, has proven hugely popular, with all thirty-one local authorities seeking funding in 2021.

A wide variety of projects were financed, ranging from the surveying of breeding birds and the creation of pollinator-friendly initiatives, to projects raising awareness of the importance of biodiversity to our well-being.

www.roscommonpeople.ie

Public consultation on emerging options for Ballinasloe Flood Relief Scheme The second public consultation period for the Ballinasloe Flood Relief Scheme commenced yesterday (Wed nesday) and will run until Wednesday, February 23rd .

The project information will be available for members of the public to view at the Civic Offices and the Public Library in Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, during this period.

This public consultation event follows on from a previous event held on March 5th 2020. The project information will be publicly accessible also via an online portal on the proje ct website, floodinfo.ie/ballinasloefrs.

The Office of Public Works (OPW), working in partnership with Galway County Council, commissioned the Shannon Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Managem ent (CFRAM) Study in 2018. The Shannon CFRAM Study Area included Ballinasloe as an Area for Further Asse ssment (AFA) and concluded that a flood relief scheme would be viable and effective for the community. The OPW subsequently appointed Design Consultants Arup and Environmental Consultants Ryan Hanley to deve lop a viable Flood Relief Scheme (FRS) for Ballinasloe.

A questionnaire will be available at the venu es and online portal to allow interested parties give feedback , make comments or observations and submit queries.

Members of the Project Team will be available by appo intment to answer queries via a dedicated phone line durin g the consultation period.

Additional event and contact information is available through the Project Website at floodinfo.ie/ba llinasloefrs.

Main Street, Roscommon, Tel. (090) 662 7665 Email: reservations@fusionfood.ie

Wed./Thurs.: 5 - 9pm Friday: 12 - 11pm Saturday: 12 - 11pm Sunday: 1 - 10pm • Booking advised for weekend dining •

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step

In from the cold!

LOUGH REE ORCAS GET LOCKDOWN BOOST… < DAN DOONER

W

Braving the elements: Members of the Lough Ree Orcas open water swimming group pictured at Ballyleague Marina earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

The Square, Roscommon town. Tel. (090) 666 5599

Website: www.jacksons.ie • Email: jacksonguesthouse@gmail.com

ur Book yo e’s Valentin Dinner with us

Jackson’s Restaurant & Accommodation is situated in the heart of Roscommon Town

hile many clubs and organisations were left out in the cold by Covid-19 restrictions over the last two years, one local group has experienced something of a renaissance with an increasing number of members taking the plunge at locations such as Lanesboro and Portrun.

Established in 2018 in Lanesboro, Lough Ree Orcas is an open water swimming group which experienced a surge in numbers during the lockdowns and now has up to 150 swimmers participating in events.

Cork native, Ger Moore, who established the group with Dubliner Colm Daly, explained how they first immersed themselves in the sport.

“When we started out it was just the two of us. We met through Lanesboro Tri Club but the swimming was our main passion,” Ger said.

“It really took off during the restrictions and we have a proper club now and there are up to 150 people on our WhatsApp group, and we take part in competitions across the country such as the Eastern Bay Invitational Ice Mile event, which was held in Clontarf recently”.

While even the idea of open water swimming in wintry conditions sends shivers down most spines, Ger says there are numerous benefits to the discipline.

“It’s great for mental health. Cold water swimming is about the here and now. It’s about being present in the moment,” he said.

“We established the group to provide a safe envi-

“

‘You start off by going for a dip a couple of times a week to acclimatise and then you build up to longer swims. Everyone suffers together!’

Luke Fannon enjoying his swim with the Lough Ree Orcas earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

ronment and so that no one would be swimming alone. You start off by going for a dip a couple of times a week to acclimatise and then you build up to longer swims. Everyone suffers together!

“You’re shivering a bit when you get out first but then the endorphins kick in and you’re buzzing for the rest of the day”.

The Lough Ree Orcas cater for all different levels and abilities and members range in age from 14 up to 70. Founding member Colm Daly is 69 and still competing in Ice Mile Challenges and other events across the country.

“There are members who are out almost every afternoon and then we have group swims on Saturdays and Sundays at 10.30 am and 11.30 am in Lanesboro and Portrun. We have regular swims from Gailey Bay to Portrun and from Lanesboro to Tarmonbarry too. We also host fundraisers for the local sub aqua group,” Ger says.

“There’s every level from those who swim at international events to those who get in for a dip wearing bobble hats. We regularly swim with a group who went off to Poland to take part in the Ice Swimming World Championships recently.

Maybe we’ll go over next year but for now we’ll keep training!”

For those who are brave enough, the Lough Ree Orcas are always on the lookout for new members. Contact Ger and Colm on loughreeorcas@ gmail.com to find out more.

Communion/Confirmation: 2-course and 3-course menu options available

Ger Moore and Luke Fannon get in for a dip at Ballyleague Marina earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

29

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon

www.roscommonpeople.ie

Lough Ree Orcas: Ger Moore, Barry O’Connor, Sinead Hanley, Gerry Mitten, Niamh Hanley, Luke Fannon, Colm Daly, Fidelma Brennan, and Maggie Gallagher pictured at Ballyleague Marina earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

Sulphate Of Iron For Moss On Lawns 25Kg Bag

BNM Peat Briquettes BNM Fireheat Ovoids €5.60 Each

€450

5 for per €27 tonne

40kg

€15.95

Onion Sets, Shallots and Garlic Bulbs Westland Multi-Purpose Compost + John Innes

50Lt. €8.99

*Buy 2 Get 3rd.

Bag Free* Free*

Vegetable & Flower Seeds

Seed Potatoes Early & Main Crop

Shamrock Potting Compost 75Lt.

€6.99 2 for €12

Organic Poultry Manure 10Kg Bucket

€14.95 2 for €28

STAR BUY

€18.95 HomeFire Heat Logs

Pack 12 €4.75 4 for €18 BNM FireHeat Ovoids 40Kg

€18.95

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step

MOLLOY’S

Looking forward to welcoming all our customers back

MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512.

E. dnmolloymainstreet@eircom.net Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum 700ml €28.55/ltr

Tequila Rose Strawberry Cream 500ml €29.98/ltr

Moet & Chandon Brut Chapagne 750ml €49.95 /750ml

VOX POP

Gerry Stronge, Photographer, Ballinasloe

What’s the one thing you’re glad to have back?

One thing you learned during Covid-19?

People, people, people. I run a photography business here in Ballinasloe and we remained open throughout the restrictions because we sell laptops and phones. For the first eight weeks of Covid-19 it seemed like it was just myself and the guy next door. The town was deserted and I missed the noise of traffic and the people. As a press photographer, there was also very little work.

It was terribly eerie…just like a horror movie. I was nearly expecting to walk out of the shop one day and some fella to shout ‘Cut! That’s it we’ve the movie done!’ It’s great to see movement again.

Just the effect the lockdowns had on so many different people. I remember arriving in at half seven in the morning one time and there was a lady asleep in her car outside. She had an ‘essential worker’ sticker on the front window.

She told me she needed a phone for her elderly mother and wouldn’t be able to come back in so was waiting for me after her shift finished.

There was another elderly man who came in to get his phone fixed. He had travelled a bit of a distance and said he hadn’t spoken to anyone in three weeks.

I asked him what he’d tell the guards if he was stopped. He told me he had a chainsaw in the boot and he’d tell them he was cutting wood!

I Heart Selected 750ml Range €7.99/750ml

What would be your dream holiday now that we can travel again?

One thing I learned is that this is one of the best and more unexplored countries in the world. Okay, it’s a bit costly and I’d like to change that one aspect. We have everything we need here though.

Please ring the Constituency Office in advance to make an appointment, tel: 090 66 28479 or email michael.fitzmaurice@oireachtas.ie

Michael Fitzmaurice TD Mobile:

086 1914565 I appeal to people to please shop locally and support our SMEs

Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting.

Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’

Contact Nuala 090 66 25818 or (086) 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

Pictured is the U-16 St Barry’s GAA team which is kindly sponsored by McGowan Accountancy Services (090 66 25818).

Reilly& Co.

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel:

090 6621220

Chartered Certified Accountants

Book Keeping l Accountancy l Taxation l Auditing l

T: 094 9620920 – E: reillyacca@gmail.com Barrack St., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Looking forward to welcoming all our customers back.

Health Food Store GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON

(090) 66 30492

Tattie Hoaker Directors: Maureen Brosnan, John Brennan and Aidan Gillan

Creaton’s SHOP & PUB

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Bridgestone Award Winners

Find us on facebook.com/TattieHoaker • Website: www.tattiehoaker.com

Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 094 98 80124

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon

Join a warm and friendly Slimming World group near you for a celebration of Free Food

Exciting plans for Creggs LOCALS WILL LAUNCH A NEW ‘VILLAGE PLAN’ NEXT WEEK…

A

new village plan for Creggs village will be launched at an event in Creggs NS on Thursday evening, February 17th, at 6.30 pm. The launch is the culmination of three years’ work in the local community, which saw Creggs Rural Development liaise with consultants MKO Design in the drawing up of a plan to take the village forward in the coming decades.

Members of the local community had to take stock of the existing environment, including heritage features, planning design and concepts. Village visits were conducted, and there were numerous consultations between the

consultants and the local community, including with pupils in the local national school. The result is a plan which takes stock of the village features, infrastructural needs and the design concepts which will underpin planning for the village in coming years.

The village plan had to take stock of national plans such as the National Planning Framework, regional plans such as the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy, and local plans such as the Galway County Development Plan. With the community straddling the border of both Galway and Roscommon, cognisance also had

to be taken of the regional hinterland, where the village is the focus of a vibrant community.

Prior to the launch of this plan, exciting developments are taking place in the village, with progress visible in terms of walking infrastructure and sporting infrastructure at both Creggs RFC and Creggs GAA. Not so visible is the work that has been done in terms of bringing highspeed fibre broadband to the village, and work is now ongoing on the creation of a remote working hub in the Parnell Historical Centre.

Creggs RFC now boasts four full-sized pitches, two of which are fully floodlit, and Connacht’s only World Rugby-approved 4G artificial all-weather pitch. A floodlit amenity

walkway measuring 1km around the rugby pitches is another valuable leisure amenity in the area, and it is well used throughout the year by local walking and running enthusiasts.

Development work is also ongoing at Creggs GAA pitch, which has seen a major development of both the pitch surface and dressing rooms in recent years. The local school has a state-of-theart gymnasium, which is used by both the school and local community, and which will be the location for the launch. Other features at the local school include a floodlit astroturf pitch, hydrotherapy pool and a range of facilities for pupils, including a polytunnel where children grow their own vegetables.

31

www.roscommonpeople.ie

Join a warm and friendly Slimming World group neara you forand a celebration of Free Food Join warm friendly Slimming World group near you for a celebration of Free Food

Bring a friend – get a week free (Offer available until 26th February

Free Food February

Members receive a free cookbook and 2 weeks free with a 12 week Roscommon block Wednesday mornings,

Creggs NS has two special classes catering for children with additional 7:30am & 9:30am needs from across the reCastlerea 6:30pm gion. A large two-classWednesday evenings, Sheila 087 4184581 room extension with in5pm & 7pm door and outdoor sensory Ballygar areas and ancillary rooms Thursday evenings, 5pm & 7pm is to be built in the near Trish 087 8581325 future.

The village plan exStokestown amines amenities in the Tuesdays 4:30pm & slimmingworld.ie wider area, including the Suck Valley Way, which slimmingworld.ie features Creggs as one of the nine friendly villages slimmingworld.ie along the route, as well as a range of fishing amenities in the local area.

The new village plan for Creggs will be launched

by Cllr. Peter Keaveney (Cathaoirleach of GalBallaghaderreen. Tel. 094 9877923 way County Council) in Creggs NS at 6.30 pm on Thursday, February 17th.

All are welcome and refreshments will be served.

Molly’s Bar

DJ every Saturday night l Live music on Bank Holidays l Beer Garden l Sky TV l Pool and Darts l

Come along and enjoy a great night out

PJ’s

CASTLECOOTE, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: (090) 66 63066 Mob: 087 610 8503

Tuesday Night Music Session

BACK UP AND RUNNING

Every Tuesday night from 8pm All parties/functions catered for Looking forward to welcoming all our customers back.

Follow us on facebook

Waldron

Cllr. ANTHONY Independent Make Roscommon litter-free!

You can play your part by being litter-aware

Contact Anthony

086 7866774 E: anthonywaldron @mail.com

Together, we can make our beautiful county litter-free and help protect jobs and develop tourism

32

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step

The importance of how we use our free time

Alannah Ita Healy says one lockdown lesson relates to how we can use our free time better…

“

Now as restrictions begin to ease, it seems like it would be a shame for us to not carry that same energy forward with us as we establish our ‘new normal’.

W

hen the first lockdown rolled around, it was obviously a major disruption to everyday life, with most people struggling to adapt to the new way of living. Of course now, after almost two years of dealing with the pandemic, having restrictions in place almost feels like the norm. In fact, for many people, switching straight back to what life was like pre-pandemic has been a harder thing to adjust to than expected.

In many ways, that same sense of disruption to daily life that came with the first lockdown is back again now, as we all prepare to ‘re-enter society’ as we once knew it. It goes without saying that this period of adjustment has a lot more positives than adjusting to lockdown did, but it’s still a big change in routine for people. With that said, as we try to navigate getting back to life without restrictions,

perhaps some of the things that helped us get through lockdown might be helpful to us now again.

Though morale was hard to

CLOONEYQUINN, FUERTY, CO. ROSCOMMON. F42 VX68 Gerard: 086-2254731 Gerry: 086-8162964 Office/sales: 090-6626536 W.: www. gerrygillmotors.ie E.: info@gerrygillmotors.ie

keep up during some of the later lockdowns (when people had begun to feel fed up with dealing with restrictions), during the first lockdown, there was a real

push to make the best of a bad situation. People ended up doing DIY projects, trying out different recipes, going for more walks etc. Regardless of the many negative effects of lockdown, one silver lining was that more of us were trying new things.

Now as restrictions begin to ease, it seems like it would be a shame for us to not carry that same energy forward with us as we establish our ‘new normal’.

It would be very easy for all of us to return to how we spent our free time before the pandemic hit, but given how much pursuing new interests benefited us when we were stuck at home, one can only imagine the benefits doing so can deliver with the world opening up again.

During lockdowns, we were restricted with the new things we could try as not everything was accessible due to public health guidelines. Therefore most of the new things we tried

were things that could be done at home, focusing on indoor activities such as art or baking banana bread (so much banana bread).

Now however, we once more have the opportunity to visit museums, attend plays, cinemas, tourist sites, activity parks etc.

We also have the opportunity to do these things with people, and to participate in group activities in general. The scope of new things available for us to try has only widened, and we should take a lesson from our lockdown selves and continue to prioritise our free time and the value of trying out these new things.

Lockdowns were an extremely difficult time to get through, but it’s important to remember what got us through them. Instead of reverting back to how things were, as we emerge from the pandemic, continue trying out new things and finding fulfilment in your free time.

Give your car the care it needs this Spring

33

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon

www.roscommonpeople.ie

LEADER 2014 – 2023 Support for Business and Community

Achievements to date Grants Allocated €7.5m

Projects Funded 128

New Jobs Created

Jobs Sustained

94.5

Community/Voluntary Organisation supported

260

96

Additional Visitors to Co. Roscommon 105,000

Types of Grants Provided Capital

Analysis & Development

Marketing & Promotion

Training

The Walks Scheme Step into the beauty and tranquillity of the Roscommon countryside on the county's long distance walking trails - The Suck Valley Way, The Miners Way & Historical Trail and, from 2022, The Lung/Lough Gara Way. Over 220km of breath-taking waymarked trails on your doorstep.

      

Key Achievements in 2021 Received €13,281 in funding from the Walks Scheme Development Fund Received over €28,700 for maintenance and materials to improve waymarked trails in Co. Roscommon Secured €43,224.47 in ORIS (Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme) funding to deliver enhancement works on the trails in Co. Roscommon in 2022.

Supported communities in all municipal districts of County Roscommon with trail research and development works.

Welcomed the addition of The Lung / Lough Gara Way to the National Walks Scheme.

Supported the development of a cross county collaboration between Roscommon & Galway.

Welcomed over 70,000 trail visits to date for 2021.

For more information on the above trails, please contact Roscommon LEADER Partnership on 090 663 0252.

34

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step

‘If only our leaders would climb down from their high horses and sing with us normal people’ < DECLAN COYNE OF THE SOUTH ROSCOMMON SINGERS CIRCLE SAYS AN OPPORTUNITY TO RE-SET SOCIETY MAY HAVE BEEN SQUANDERED…

S

o things are back to normal then.

Normal, i.e. conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected. It doesn’t mean it’s right or wrong, good or bad, better or worse than before. It’s just ... ‘normal’.

It annoys me though, insofar as I can be annoyed at this hour of my life, that we’ve had almost two years to take a good hard look at ourselves as a society (but not really done so) – a wonderful opportunity for us all, but especially our leaders, to set economics to one side for one brief discussion period and think, for once, with a view to coming up with a vision for what kind of society we want for our children and grandchildren into the future. Just put the value of human life and society above economics for one brief discussion period. Okay! I know it will boil down to money in the end, but without a plan and a clear vision for the future, you are throwing good money after bad and end up with a totally dysfunctional society, which is where, I fear, we are heading right now, if we’re not already there.

But no! Such planning or vision wouldn’t be usual, typical or expected.

What would be usual, typical and expected would be that the political elite are allowed to shirk their responsibility to ‘all citizens’ in favour of their wealthy friends in high places. And, of course, those political elite and their friends in high places are not subjected to the full rigours of the law, (either normal law or ‘Covid law’), in the same way that the rest of us normal people are. No, we can only dream on and get it into our thick peasant skulls that ‘normal’ can’t be changed. Of course it can’t, it’s normal. Boys will be boys and they’ll keep on throwing money at the symptoms and forget about the causes.

Sorry, I’m not here to write about the golfgate mockery or any other elitist/ political mockery; I’m here to write about ...well, I’m not sure what I’m here to write about really. Roscommon People Editor Paul Healy asked me if I’d write a piece in relation to the easing of Covid restrictions and the return to ‘normal’ living.

Hard to think of anything to report though, even after two years of isolation. However, to start with, I have to say, I enjoyed the lockdown period.

Got a few jobs done about the place that had been on the long finger for years. Free from thoughts of planning the next singing session or planning the

Declan Coyne (the author of this article) enjoying being out and about again. Declan (left) and Pat Joe Grady had lots to catch up on when they met in Coffey’s Bar, Lecarrow recently. Photo: Mick McCormack

next trip to Rosslare, Miltown Malbay, Inishowen or other far-flung places on this island or even overseas, leaves the mind free to concentrate on the task at hand – and leaves you free to finish the job when you’re at it.

In spite of that, it didn’t stop the singing. In fact I’ve probably sung a lot more in the past two years than I did for years before, all thanks to modern technology and that thing called, ‘Zoom’.

Speaking of which, I’m sure there are many people around the world still scratching their heads and tearing their hair, over stuff that happened during Zoom sessions. I’ve seen and heard a few scary ones – one in particular, quite frightening, I do recall. Then there were the funny ones; there were plenty of those, but I won’t embarrass anyone any further by telling tales from school.

Strange thing though, getting a glimpse into people’s homes and how some folk behave in the comfort of their own couch or armchair...and the conversations when they forget to ‘unmute’ or to remember that the whole world is watching them.

Apart from those odd glitches here and there, the Zoom sessions were a wonderful way of keeping in touch

with old friends and making new ones around the world; hearing singers from all corners of the planet and, of course, the range and variety that you don’t normally get at a local or regular session.

On a personal note, one thing I’ll remember with a sense of pride was listening to a conversation between a bunch of serious folkies from across Britain discussing folk music festivals, when one of them sang the praises of Cambridge, Oxford and Knockcroghery. Nice that she thought us worthy of being on her elite list, not to mention her top three. No surprise, of course, but nice to hear just the same. Tourism and funding agencies, please take note!

Ah! But Zoom sessions are not ‘normal’, are they? Which is why it’s great to be back with the real thing and being normal again. (Ouch! Did I say ‘normal’? Sorry.)

Seriously though, you can’t help but feel a tremendous sense of security and comfort when you walk into a bar after two years and that guy, on the same high stool, staring into his pint with that same blank expression, is still there; and the guy at the end of the bar, with his back to the wall, is still perched

up there with the same half-smile on his face, scanning the bar, observing all the comings and goings but saying nothing. And, of course, the same three guys with their heads still tilted towards each other, still giving out about the price of cattle, the sheep trade and them mad Greens. Ah, sure where would you be without normal after all! But it is nice occasionally after a Sunday afternoon saunter in St. John’s Wood, Mote Park or Kilteevan, to pop into the local for a relaxing beverage and a chat with the locals.

My normal though, from a social perspective, would be built mostly around singing sessions and music festivals.

I’ve already got in a few ‘live’ sessions since the relaxation of the rules.

In some ways it was like the past two years were just a dream; the same musicians were back in their corners and the same singers and storytellers were scattered around the bars, just as if the biggest social upheaval of the past century had never happened. Strange, yet comforting.

So, we’ll motor on and look forward to meeting more old friends face to face again, share our songs and catch up on life’s events. Sure who knows, if

the good Lord is willing, we just might take up a few invitations to sing at some English Folk Clubs, and it would be great to get back to Virginia and Maryland again too. Normal stuff. Sure isn’t it grand!

If only our leaders would climb down from their high horses and sing with us normal people. Maybe do something that doesn’t conform to their low standards; something unusual, atypical, or unexpected. Ha ha, dream on!

Here’s to normal.

Ah! But Zoom sessions are not ‘normal’, are they? Which is why it’s great to be back with the real thing and being normal again.

“

Ah! But Zoom sessions are not ‘normal’, are they? Which is why it’s great to be back with the real thing and being normal again.

35

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

#SpringbackRoscommon

www.roscommonpeople.ie

Session this Saturday in memory of Sonny Davis S

adly, we said goodbye to Sonny Davis in January; he was in his 98th year. For the past twenty-eight years Sonny was a regular and eager participant in our monthly (South Roscommon Singers) singing sessions. He rarely ever repeated a song in all those years, except on request. He would deliver his unique renditions of a local ballad, ‘Corbooley Hill’, or the classics, ‘Red Is the Rose’ or ‘Red River Valley’, often preceded by a humourous story or a quick joke.

Sonny endeared himself to all who visited ‘The Circle’ and oftentimes, in a far-flung place, I would meet a fellow singer who might not have been to Knockcroghery for a while, and the first question I’d be asked is, “How is Sonny?”

Many of those, as well as many local performers, will join together in a session of song, music, stories and poetry in memory of Sonny on this Saturday evening from 7 pm in the home of The Singers Circle, Murray’s, Knockcroghery.

Sonny Davis, RIP.

Also, this week we bid farewell to another great friend of The Circle, Noreen Geraghty.

She and her late husband, Martin, were regulars at our monthly sessions and our festivals.

While neither performed, they were always there and eager to help out at times of need.

May they all rest in peace.

“

He would deliver his unique renditions of a local ballad, ‘Corbooley Hill’, or the classics, ‘Red Is the Rose’ or ‘Red River Valley’, often preceded by a humourous story or a quick joke.

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36

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Brisknet

with and

when you connect to our Fixed Wireless network

call today to book a free survey fibre packages also available

eurona-brisknet.ie

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

NewsPeople It’s been a GOOD week for…

TAKE A BREAK

37

Roscommon senior footballers, with Anthony Cunningham’s side defeating Meath in Navan to make it two wins from two in an impressive start to their National Football League Division 2 campaign…

Leona Maguire and Seamus Power, with the former storming to a brilliant victory in the LPGA Tour (see Paul Healy’s Week), and the latter leading through rounds one and two of the Pebble Beach Pro-Am (before having to settle for joint ninth place, a finish which still maintains his recent momentum)

St Mary’s Holy Faith TY students Cliodhna Murphy, Amy Ward and Mia Jervis pictured at the launch of EirGrid’s partnership with Young Social Innovators. Pic: Shane O’Neill, Coalesce

Roscommon students invited to enter new Climate Action and Energy Award Second-level schools in Roscommon are invited to take innovative action in response to the climate emergency through a new Climate Action and Energy Award, in association with Young Social Innovators and EirGrid.

EirGrid, the national electricity grid operator, has launched a partnership with non-profit organisation, Young Social Innovators (YSI). The collaboration will see EirGrid become the new Climate Action and Energy partner with non-profit organisation, Young Social Innovators (YSI) for a threeyear period.

Young Social Innovators empowers and supports young people to develop and implement innovative ideas to bring about positive social change for the

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

benefit of people, communities and the environment. Over the past twenty years, some 145,000 teenagers have taken part in YSI’s social innovation programmes in post primary schools nationally.

EirGrid will become YSI’s Challenge Partner under its Environment Pillar. Along with this, a ‘Climate Action and Energy’ award will be created for current participants in the Young Social Innovators of the Year Ireland Awards 2022.

Schools can register their interest in getting involved now by emailing educate@youngsocialinnovators.ie. To find out how EirGrid is delivering a cleaner energy future, visit eirgrid.ie. To get more information about the important work YSI do, visit youngsocialinnovators.ie.

“

The currently ruthless Ireland rugby team, who lived up to prematch predictions by accounting for an admittedly injury-hit Wales, Ireland getting a bonus point as they scored four tries in a comprehensive (29-7) win Our Gardai, who are receiving newlook uniforms as and from this very week, that’s according to RTE’s Paul Reynolds, who reported that shirts and ties are out, and polo shirts and waterproof jackets are in, with peaked caps naturally remaining as part of the ‘wardrobe’

Jimmy Carr

It’s been a BAD week for…

Rather smug British comedian Jimmy Carr, who infuriated, upset and disgusted many people – others came to his defence – when it came to light that he had made a joke about Gypsies who were killed during the Holocaust Shell-shocked Bournemouth FC, who were dumped out of the FA Cup by heroic non-league Boreham Wood, a team that’s 74 league places below the Championship side RTÉ newsreader Aengus Mac Grianna, who was eliminated from Dancing With The Stars on Sunday (apparently a ‘shock’)…at least he doesn’t have to watch the rest of the series (sorry)…

Tyrone’s ever-combative senior footballers, with four of their team sent off by referee David Gough following a late flare-up in their Mayo TD Dara Calleary, who, if one league encounter with Armagh (who had one ‘reads between the lines’, will almost player dismissed), the red card blitz leading to inevitably be appointed to Cabinet in a much controversy and discussion reshuffle later this year, this return for the affable Mayo man widely expected UK-based fans of long-running Australian after all charges were dismissed in the soap ‘Neighbours’, following the announceClifden ‘Golfgate’ trial (Calleary, who ment that Channel 5 is to drop the show later was not before the court, resigned as this year (we won’t be surprised if there are a minister due to his attendance at the further developments, some channel will function during the height of lockdown surely come to the rescue) in 2020)

The things people say…

Holly Willoughby (English television presenter, turns 41 on Thursday)

Kelly Rowland (American singersongwriter, will be 41 on Friday)

Jennifer Aniston (American actress, turns 53 on Friday)

Robbie Williams (English singer, will be 48 on Sunday)

‘I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me’ - Noel Coward

For updates, check our social channels

Barry Minagh and Lexi in Coffey’s Bar, Lecarrow recently. Photo: Mick McCormack

38

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

39

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

PropertyPeople

Cormac 086 3519492

PSRA Licence No. 004420

FINAL OFFERS INVITED PRIME QUALITY LANDS

APPROX. 23 ACRES

LOCATED AT

CARROWNALASSAN & CARROWBOY, FOUR MILE HOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON Prime Quality Lands located just off the N61 comprised in folios RN13719 & RN1816 The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming area between Roscommon & Tulsk Final Offers Invited.

PRICE GUIDE €195,000

Legals: Billy Brandon Solicitors, 090 6626245 of Patrick J Neilan Solicitors, Roscommon The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY OR AUCTION LATER PRIME QUALITY LANDS

APPROX. 49.4 ACRES

WITH DERELICT RESIDENCE STANDING THERE ON LOCATED AT

RATHKEVA & TONROE, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON

Cathal 086 1409158

NEW TO THE MARKET 30 ACRES (approx) OF PRIME LANDS LOCATED AT

KILMURRY, CASTLEPLUNKETT, CO. ROSCOMMON AMV:€225,000 Prime lands set out in two lots comprised in Folio RN16670F. These said lands are located beside St Pauls Church, Kilmurry, Castleplunkett Services: Water and Cattle Holding Pen and Crush Approx 30 Acres for sale can be sold in one or two lots should market interest dictate.

Lot 1 - Quality land Approx.12.5 acres €95,000 Lot 2 - Quality land Approx.17.5 acres €130,000 Total 30 Acres (approx.)

- €225,000 The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming area between Castlerea & Castleplunkett Legal: Sean Mahon Solicitor, Mahon Sweeney Roscommon 090 6627350 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

NEW TO THE MARKET

18.1 ACRES (approx.) OF PRIME ROADSIDE LANDS LOCATED AT

STONEPARK, BESIDE ROSCOMMON TOWN AMV: €180,000

PRICE GUIDE €375,000

Prime quality lands comprised in Folios RN11965 & RN21489 standing on the said lands is a derelict residence with pitch slated roof & storage shed at side.

A Four-Bay-Shed, yard and Holding Pen is located at entrance with the benefit of side road. Folio comprised of RN11965 + RN21489 Note: Land can be sold in one or two lots should market interest dictate ie. 12.75 aces (approx); 36.6 acres (approx) with sheds & derelict residence

Legals: O’Dwyer Solicitors, Ballyhaunis, Mayo. 094 963 0011 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

Prime Roadside Lands set out in one lot holding potential due location.

The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming area beside Roscommon Town.

Legal: Kelly Kennedy Solicitors Dublin 2 (01) 676 4716 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

LAND TO LET – 24 ACRES AT SHROVE TULSK FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT OUR OFFICE

Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796. Mobile: Cormac 086 3519492 or Cathal 086 1409158 Email: teamearley@remax.ie • Web: www.teamearley.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

PropertyPeople

‘Sale of the Week’ at RE/MAX Team Earley This week, RE/MAX Team Earley are pleased to advise that they closed the sale of a character twobedroomed bungalow residence, located at Tonlagee beside Roscommon town.

This is a most attractive countryside bungalow residence with lots of character, standing on a large site area of approximately 0.56 of an acre in a select residential district close to Roscommon town. The property was presented for sale in excellent condition throughout, having been completely renovated in recent years.

The property features doubleglazed uPVC windows and doors, an OFCH central heating system with a solid fuel stove in the kitchen area, an open fireplace in the sitting room and first bedroom. All mains services are connected, with septic tank on site.

There is also a gravelled driveway to the side.

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

RE/MAX Earley: Pubs wanted in all areas This week, RE/MAX Team Earley require pubs in all areas, having successfully sold five pubs in the past few weeks including sales in Ballyhaunis, Castlerea, Cootehall and Lanesboro. We now require similar properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders.

Reply in confidence to the auctioneer to arrange a free consultation. Contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt Roscommon on 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley. ie. Contact auctioneer Cormac directly on 0863519492.

Properties wanted – Pat Hughes and Company Due to the high volume of sales over the past number of months, Pat Hughes and Company are urgently looking for

all types of properties in and around the Roscommon area.

If you are thinking of buying or sell-

ing, contact Pat Hughes and Company for their free, confidential advice. For further details on any property on of-

Commercial site on Lanesboro Road

fer, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers. com.

Apartments for sale on Abbey Street This week, Pat Hughes and Company are offering a block of two two-bedroomed apartments for sale at No. 16 Abbey Street, Roscommon.

This would make an ideal investment opportunity for someone.

Selling to offers in excess of €160,000.

For further details contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

This week, Pat Hughes and Company are offering for sale a three and a half acre (approximately) commercial site with full planning permission for a 10,000 square foot warehouse, located on the Lanesboro Road, Roscommon.

Pat is encouraging anyone looking for a large site convenient to the town centre with huge development potential to contact them on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Abbey Street office building for sale This week, Pat Hughes and Company is confirming that there is a lot of interest in an office building at Abbey Street, which is ideally located close to all local amenities and within walking distance of Roscommon town centre.

The building is currently laid out into an office but could easily be converted into a residential unit if required. The building, which was used for a number of years as a solicitor’s office, is located in one of Roscommon’s most sought-after areas. Accommodation consists of two offices on the ground floor, four offices on the first floor and a large garden to the rear.

For further details or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

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Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

PropertyPeople

Auctioneers & Valuers

Licence No. 001090

NO. 1 ABBEY ST., ROSCOMMON. TEL 090 66 27003. FAX 090 66 26296. EMAIL info@pathughesauctioneers.com Web: www.pathughesauctioneers.com RE-ADVERTISED DUE TO CANCELLATION Circa 18 acre residential farm located at

KILLERNEY, ROSCOMMON

for the Reps of the late Patrick (Gossie) McGovern.

FINAL OFFERS Are now being sought on a property at

ROXBORO, ROSCOMMON

circa 43-acre Residential Farm for the Reps of the late Mary (Maisie) Farrell, Deceased.

S R E F F O L FINA The property is located approximately 2 miles from Roscommon Town. Most of the lands are of good quality with excellent road frontage. The lands have access to a side road which leaves it suitable for further development subject to planning permission being granted.

The residence is a 1 Bedroomed bungalow which can be sold separately. Accommodation consists of Kitchen Cum Dining Room, Sitting Room, Living Room, Bedroom, Bathroom & Utility with a range of out-offices including Horse Stables, Hay Shed, Cattle Pen & Crush.

Legal: Ms. Andrina Fahy, Solicitor, Patrick J Neilan & Sons, Solicitors, Church Street, Roscommon. Ph. 090 66 26245.

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

FOR SALE

LISNAVILLE, FUERTY, ROSCOMMON

A large 6 Bedroom Dormer Bungalow located only 3 miles from Roscommon Town and convenient to all amenities. The residence stands on a circa 1-acre elevated site and is finished to a high standard. Accommodation consists of a Porch, Sitting Room, Kitchen Cum Dining Room, Large Utility with Toilet off same, Office / Study, Large Hotpress, Bathroom, 2 Bedrooms with one En-Suite. Upstairs consists of 4 Bedrooms with 2 En-Suite. The property has the benefit of a large Garden to the Front and rear of the property.

Pat is considering every offer in excess of €320,000 for this residence.

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

FOR SALE

TONLEGEE, ROSCOMMON An attractive four bedroomed bungalow on fully landscaped site with a range of out-offices including a large garage, workshop, and storage sheds. The garden has been superbly laid out with raised vegetable beds and fruit trees.

Accommodation consists of: Living Room with Inset Stove, Dining Room with Inset Stove, Kitchen and Utility, Bathroom, and 4 Bedrooms.

Upstairs there is a large Studio with Velux windows, and W.C. with shower.

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

FOR SALE – CIRCA 24 ACRES AT

FARM BALLYMOE, CO. GALWAY The Lands are located a short distance off the main Farm to Ballymoe Road in a nice rural setting. The lands adjoin mature forestry and would be suitable for planting.

Price Guide - €120,000 For further details and appointment to view contact 090 6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com --------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------

For further information or to make an appointment to view any of the above contact the office on 090 66 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

The property can be sold in one or more lots to suit. Accommodation consists of: Kitchen, Dining Room, Sitting Room, 3 Bedrooms and Bathroom downstairs, with 2 further Bedrooms upstairs.

There are several out-offices including hay shed and lean-to. The lands have excellent road frontage and would have development potential subject to planning permission being granted.

The property is situated less than 2 miles from Roscommon town and ½ mile off the main Lanesboro to Roscommon Road convenient to schools and all local amenities.

• Lot 1 Residence on circa 34 acres • Lot 2 Circa 9 acres • Lot 3 Residence on circa 3 acres • Lot 4 Circa 31 acres Legal: Carmel Leahy, Thomas K Madden & Co. Solicitors, 1 Camlin View, Deanscurragh, Longford, (043) 334 1192 --------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------

LANDS TO LEASE

• Circa 38 Acres with a 6 Bay Slatted Shed at Ballinamore Bridge – 5 Year Lease • Circa 17.5 Acres at Kilnagralta, Morganstown, Athleague – 5 Year Lease --------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------

LANDS TO LET – 11 MONTH LETTINGS • Circa 67 Acres at Derrygeel, Lanesboro, Co. Longford Can be set in lots. No Cattle on the lands after 1st Nov. • Circa 9 Acre Derraghan, Lanesboro, Co. Longford No. Cattle on the lands after 1st Nov.

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

#### URGENTLY REQUIRED #### Due to continued success Hughes & Company are urgently looking for all types of property in and around Roscommon for a number of disappointed underbidders. If you are thinking of buying or selling talk to Pat, let him advise you, his advice is free.

Land to Let Urgently required for 11 month Letting and 5 years lease.

If you are considering letting or leasing your land, contact Pat and let him advise you.

Phone: 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

SITE FOR SALE –

Site with the benefit of Full Planning for a dormer bungalow at THE WALK, ROSCOMMON. Every offer in excess of €80,000 considered.

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

FOR SALE – CIRCA 30 ACRES OF PRIME AGRICULTURAL LAND AT

LISNAMULT, ROSCOMMON

The lands offer an opportunity for somebody to increase their farm or acquire a nice compact farm.

The lands offer huge development potential subject to planning permission being granted.

Guide Price: €300,000.

For further details and appointment to view contact 090 6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

FIN

S R E F F AL O

42

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Classifieds

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

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services.

Telephone:

087 2798704

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

CHIROPRACTOR

CONSTRUCTION

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Carpenter Available

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon.

David Connor

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

VHI and Laya Covered

COMPUTERS

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

NO FIX NO FEE

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal.

Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance.

Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

CONSTRUCTION

Stephen Casey

Construction l

Submit your Classified online

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

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Send your Classified advertisement to

Phone Tommy

086 8934576 COUNSELLING

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

COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis.

Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you?

Paul McStay

DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver.

GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

FENCING/GATES

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

087 2346364

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

web: www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

l l

For all your fencing needs.

GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

Tel: 087 2172281

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633

• Timber Floors fitted Solid or Laminate • Doors • Stairs • Wall Panelling

DRIVING LESSONS

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

GARDENING

GARDENING

PLANNINGS

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

Phone:

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

087 2721193

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

CORBETT

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

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

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

www.parklawntreeservices.

HAIRDRESSER

l

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

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

Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on

KATHLEEN’S HAIRDRESSING SERVICE Ladies and Gents Hairdressing Services.

Also Mobile service available. Evening appointments available.

Free 10 mins Indian Head Massage for every appointment For enquiries Tel: 085 8514270 or 094 9643286 PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Sinead O’Brien am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house with domestic garage, septic tank and percolation area along with all ancillary site development works at Lisbrock, Brideswell, Athlone, Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Movement Matters

087 2860428

20 years experience treating babies to adults.

Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

GATELY GARDENING

Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

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

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

Can we help you?

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

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designers – Consulting Engineers

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

43

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Vantage Towers Limited intend to apply for permission to erect a 30m high telecommunications monopole structure together with antennas, dishes and associated telecommunications equipment enclosed by security fencing at Raheen, Elphin, 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 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Gary and Carol Lester are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to erect a 9.3m x 4.1m x 2.75m high prefabricated building for use as a cattery at Curragh, Cloonfad, Co. Roscommon.

F35KX88.

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

Signed: Gary and Carol Lester .

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Gerard Gill and Therese Kelly are applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct dwelling house along with domestic garage, new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Lissaneaville Townland, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designers – Consulting Engineers

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying for planning permission for erection of commercial premises, comprising manufacturing unit with storage provisions, office and toilet accommodation and all ancillary development on site at IDA Business Park, Lisnacroghy or Gallowstown, Castlerea Road, Roscommon.

Signed: Dan O’Brien and Liam Casey, Lidan Designs 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 five 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Noel Higgins and Christina Brennan intend to apply for planning permission to construct a single storey dwelling house, proprietary effluent treatment unit and soil polishing filter on site, together with all ancillary site works and services at Leitrim, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed: Middleton Architectural and Engineering Services Phone: 086 0552118

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to erect an extension to my dwellinghouse and carry out ancillary site works at Cloonshask, Oldtown, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, James Walsh am applying for planning permission to operate an off-licence section with floor space of circa 19sq.m. within the existing shop unit to serve the general public at Walsh’s Centra, Castle St., Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon, F42 R159.

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

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designers – Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Planning permission is sought from Roscommon County Council for the following development: To renovate and extend existing single storey dwelling house to include raising the ridge level to provide living accommodation at attic level, provide domestic garage and upgrade existing site entrance including all ancillary site works necessary to complete the development at Sroankeeragh Td., Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon for Enda Heslin.

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

Signed: O’ Rourke Design and Planning.

Telephone: 071 9643042 Mobile: 087 2846588 E.Mail: peter.ordap@gmail.com.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Jonathan Hegarty am applying to Roscommon Council for planning permission for change of house type to that granted under PD/21/3 at Derryhippo Td, Creggs, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designers – Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Shuttington Holdings ULC intend to apply for planning permission for retention of development and permission for development at Ballyboughan and Carrownabrickna, Racecourse Road, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the retention of existing office/store room (gross floor area for retention 11 sq.m) and permission for (i) change of use of existing convenience shop to include part off-licence use, (gross floor area for off-licence use 20 sq.m), (ii) alterations to eastern and northern elevations of building to include changes to existing window and door openings, (iii) minor internal alterations and all associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: APS Consulting & Engineering Limited

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Laura Mullooly, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct a dwelling house and garage with wastewater treatment system and raised mound percolation area and all associated site development works at Mote Demesne Td, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon.

Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Carroll Consultancy, are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Roger Price for planning permission for development of construction of a slatted shed with underground slurry storage tank along with all associated site works and retention planning permission for existing agricultural grain storage shed at Rathfuadagh Townland, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant the application.

Signed: Carroll Consultancy, Bridge Street, Swinford, Co. Mayo.

Telephone: 094 9253742

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Carroll Consultancy, are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Raymond Price for planning permission for development of construction of a 5 bay slatted shed with underground slurry storage tank along with all associated site works at Toomore Td, Hillstreet, Carrick On Shannon, 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 opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant the application.

Signed: Carroll Consultancy, Bridge Street, Swinford, Co. Mayo.

Telephone: 094 9253742

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Rathcroghan Designs intend applying for planning permission on behalf of Barry Rogers to construct slatted shed , together with all associated site works at, Rathnaglye T.d. Tulsk, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of five 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: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon.

Tel: 086 2328484

PUBLIC NOTICE We, Sarah and Dennis Deane, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon wish to apply for renewal of their Bookmakers Licences.

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

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

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

• 20 years experience

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

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

For Bookings Contact:

College Road, For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803

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

Co Galway H53 D7W8

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

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

EVERY FRIDAY

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: EMAIL:

090 66 34633

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

44

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

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

Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable.

Tel: 086 8212732

REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)

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

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

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

SOULMATES < SOULMATES Don’t be alone, meet that special person for friendship and romance with like minded people. Safe, secure and confidential.

Tel: 087 9216302 or 087 7720250

TAROT READING < TAROT READING: Would you like to know what your future holds, have a Tarot Reading and Angel Reading with Kerry Lee, based near Glenamaddy. Tel: 089 4256426

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

USEFUL SERVICES

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

LOFT LADDERS

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

Phone:

083 0684011

< THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Net bags of seasoned firewood only €3 per bag, buy 20 bags get 1 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf only €35 per bag. Half tonne bags of Ash/Beech only €35 per bag. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 or Tony 087 7055800

TURF AVAILABLE Bulk bags of Turf available Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas)

Also loads of Peat bedding for livestock (delivered)

ROOFING

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

If so ring: or 090 6626752

The company that can do all them small jobs

MG Services

Supplied & Fitted From

FROM

€190 094 9373445 087 9100477

• Tiling (Wall and Floor) • Timber Floors • Timber Fencing, Decking • Garden Maintenance • Power Washing AND ALL OTHER JOBS CONSIDERED

Telephone:

Established since 2005

087 2478609

Plumbing & Maintenance

PAINTER & DECORATOR

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

Contact Luke on

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

085 7359120

087 2683079

Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

Phone: 091 416029 Liam or Mick 085 7619827

Affordable Roofing and Gutter Repairs, we replace and install in Roscommon area.

Our Services: • Roof Repairs • Gutter Repairs • New Roofs • Flat Roofs • Gutter Exchange • Lead Valley Roof • Cleaning Gutter • Cleaning

email: roofingcontractors27@gmail.com

Phone: 091 416029

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

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

WALSH Anne and Oliver Ballygar (formerly Cavan, Dublin & Kilkenny)

Who died 11/2/2019

CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

COSTELLO Mary Coolfree, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 11th February 2014

Who died 5/5/1975

MUM & DAD As we look back in fondness every day, at the joyful times we had.

No one could wish for such a perfect pair, as our special Mum and Dad. We are grateful for what you taught us, and we are grateful for your love, and we know that you watch over us, from the heavens up above.

Although you’re missed so dearly, and so many tears we’ve cried, it is so sweet and fitting, that you sleep softly side by side.

You shared your love, you shared your life, many precious times together, now you will spend eternity, hand in hand forever.

Loved and sadly missed by all their family.

Masses offered.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Time slips by and life goes on, but from our hearts you’re never gone.

We think about you always, we talk about you too, we have so many memories but we wish we still had you.

Love Henry and all your family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell on Sunday, 13th February at 11am.

FLYNN Mamie (Mary) Knock, Taughmaconnell (2nd Anniversary)

For all your decorating needs Email or call for Sample Pack

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn.

We are safety certified and insured.

In loving memory of Maime, who passed away on 8th February 2020.

Phone:

086 2437376

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

FAMILYNOTICES .... ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

087 9657933

Aluminium

www.oddjobsolutions.ie

TOP QUALITY TURF

USEFUL SERVICES

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

087 9795226

Missing you always forgetting you never.

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

Loved and sadly missed by all her family and grandchildren.

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

The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!

The local paper!

45

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES O’Grady Mary

Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon.

Who passed away on 9th December 2021

GRADY (née Fox) Annie Mae Carranure Lower, St. John’s, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 6th February 2020 (2nd Anniversary)

HENNIGAN Anne (Nancy) Castletanna, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon (7th Anniversary)

MULHERN Tom Convent Road, Roscommon Who passed away on the 8th February 2000

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS • Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

Scrine, Athleague, www.brianmuraystone.com Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com The family ot the late Mary O’Grady would like to extend their gratitude to all those who have shown kindness and support to the family during this difficult time.

To the Ambulance Service, Fire Brigade and An Gardai Síochána who responded and came to our aid, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks and acknowledge that the job you all did will never be forgotten.

To Donald Hamrock Funeral Directors, we extend our appreciation for the professional and sincere way you dealt with the arrangements, allowing our family to grieve and have the opportunity to spend time with our loved one.

Thank you to Fr. Michael McManus and Bishop Michael Dignan for celebrating Mary’s mass with meaning and comforting words. Also, to the Coyles who provided beautiful music during the funeral.

Thank you to the grave diggers who prepared Mary’s final resting place with such dignity and respect. We would like to also thank all those who attended the funeral and visited the house. The generosity you all showed provided comfort and made the family aware of the support system they have around them.

Our heartfelt thanks goes out to all those who sent mass cards, letters, text messages, telephone calls, flowers, funeral wreaths and posted condolences on RIP.ie. Your words and gestures brought us solace during the period.

Thank you to the Hodson Bay Hotel for the meal they provided on the day.

As it was difficult to thank everyone individually for their kindness and support, please accept this acknowledgment as an expression of our sincere gratitude.

In loving memory of Anne who passed away on 14th January 2015. Also remembering at this time her husband, Cornelius (Sonny), who passed away on 26th August 1976

Don’t grieve for me as I have not gone, I only slipped next door to watch and guide over you all for now and ever more.

Loved and remembered by her sons and daughters, sister Philomena, nieces, nephews, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family.

Masses offered.

HAUGHEY Eileen Late of Mount Carmel, 108 Abbeyville, Galway Road, Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

We miss you from your fireside chair your loving smile and gentle air.

Your vacant place no one can fill we miss you Mother and always will.

Always lovingly remembered by her son Tommy Joe. Anniversary Mass in Four Mile House, Church on Sunday, 13th February at 11am.

MULLARKEY Christina Tonebane, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon (13th Anniversary)

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

CUNNINGHAM Michael and Kathleen Creevy, Roscommon (17th and 4th Anniversaries)

Sadly missed by all your family.

KILDUFF Mary 5 Circular Road, Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Michael, who passed away on 25th February 2005 and Kathleen who passed away on 7th January 2018 Silent thoughts of times together, hold memories for us that will last forever.

Lovingly missed, forever by all their family.

Masses offered.

Who passed away on the 16th February 2014

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

FEE George and Mary The Racecourse, Ballymurry, Roscommon (22nd and 9th Anniversaries)

Lovingly remembered by Hugh, Anne, Thomas, Eddie, Jenni, Ruth and Evelyn.

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

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

In loving memory of Eileen Haughey who passed away on 12th February 2018 R.I.P.

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

So Rest In Peace dear Eileen and thanks for all you’ve done, we pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won.

Greatly missed by her relatives and friends.

Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town on Friday, 11th February at 11am.

In loving memory of Chrissie, who passed away on the 8th of February, 2009.

R.I.P.

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

Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words, we will never forget.

Our thoughts go back, as they always do.

We treasure the memories, we have of you.

Always in our thoughts and sadly missed by her family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be offered for Christina, John and deceased members of the Mullarkey family on Sunday, 13th February 2022 in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish at 11am.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

DUNNE Padraic

In loving memory of George, who passed away on 13th February 2000 and Mary, who passed away on 16th February 2013

Lisnamult, Roscommon Who passed away on 12th February 2018 (4th Anniversary)

Their memories are so precious their presence missed so much they will always be remembered and loved by all of us.

Sadly missed by their family.

Masses will be arranged.

THANKSGIVINGS

As each day dawns we think of you as each night falls we pray for you and in between no matter where deep in our hearts you are always there.

Forever loved and greatly missed by his wife Mary, son Niall, daughters Ursula and Caroline.

Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 12th February at 11am.

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

46

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KELLY Frank Strokestown Who passed away on the 14th February 2002 (20th Anniversary)

BEATTIE Eamonn Knockanyconnor, Lecarrow.

(6th Anniversary)

Appointments

MONTH’S MIND MASS DAVIS Sonny

“The Yard” Feeragh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

On 9th January 2022, Sonny made his final journey home and was reunited with God and his loving family.

Operations Admin Operations Admin Opportunity Opportunity

Part of CWS Group, Service Matters is one of Ireland’s largest providers in the Hygiene Rental sector. We are recruiting for the

Raise a glass and recall fond memories of a scholar, gentleman and father on this day.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all the difference.”

Remember also his wonderful wife, Anne (nee McCrann) (2002).

You are both still guiding

your sons.

A special memorial will be arranged for Anne and Frank in mid 2022.

KENNY Máire Culleen, Knockcroghery (4th Anniversary) Whose fourth anniversary occurs on the 26th February.

Who passed away on the 13th February 2016

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on 2nd April at 7pm.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h anam dilís.

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

RoscommonAdministrator – Operations Roscommon Successful candidates will join a diverse operations

A silent thought, a quiet prayer. for a special person, in God’s care.

Remembered by his wife Bridie, sons David, Ronan, Enda, daughters Geraldine, Fiona, Joanne, sons-inlaw, daughter-in-law and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 13th February at 11.30am.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE CURLEY Elaine Gurrane, Creggs, Co. Roscommon Remembering Elaine on her 30th Birthday on 14th February

team and be responsible for Operational reporting,

Sonny’s family would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who sympathised with us during our recent bereavement and sad loss. We thank those who helped us celebrate his life’s legacy and memory of a much-loved gentleman.

To those who sent in heartfelt condolences on RIP.ie, we truly loved reading them they were thoughtful and beautiful.

We wish to express our sincere and deep gratitude to Sonny’s loyal and faithful neighbours, Eddy, Marie Feeney and family, who daily cast a caring and discreet eye on him, particularly over the past year. To his incredible and amazing friends Matt Rogers and Marie Claire, to John and Eithne Murray, Mike Tyrell and to Sonny’s community family of Knockcroghery we salute each of you with such love as each of you shared your own unique journey with Sonny in varied and different ways.

Thank you to those who stood with us to honour and remember him at his leave-taking. We thank those who comforted us before, during, after his removal and burial. Bless those who lifted our hearts with the fondest of memories as we received deep human insights into his long life, through shared stories and antics although bold and daring – yet personified the true nature of a gentleman from his fingertips to his toes.

We wish to acknowledge the exceptional medical care that Sonny received from Dr. Alex Robinson. Her care of him went beyond the call of duty as she truly understood and respected the true uniqueness of Sonny. Her gentle and ever thoughtful visits were always attended in a most humble way. We thank the Palliative Home Care team, Ursula and Fiona who provided sensitive and gentle caring of Sonny in the last few weeks of his life. We thank the specialist team at UCHG for their recent medical care, to Dr. Rogers for his unwavering discreet support which was always a blessing in Sonny’s life.

A deep appreciation to Fr. Ray, who administered Sonny’s final blessing on Sunday, 9th January, 2022. We are truly grateful as we know this helped make Sonny’s transition peaceful and sacred. Sincere thanks to Rev. Michael McManus who celebrated Sonny’s Mass and Burial which made it meaningful and precious.

I ndíl chuimhne

Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving family Regina, Allan, Éanna and Lucia.

Part of CWS Group, Service Matters is one of Ireland’s largest following role: providers in the Hygiene Rental sector. We are recruiting for the following role: Operations Administrator –

Thank you to his friends and community who formed a Guard of Honour at the Church to receive in Sonny’s remains. Thank you to the stewards of the Church who attended and insured the efficient running for all in attendance.

On this special day you are always on our mind.

Just as the day you went away, we have emotions of every kind.

We can not let this day go by without marking it in some way.

So as each year since you died. we are standing here today, we place our flowers upon your grave and hope that you can see.

We try to smile and be brave just as you would want us to be.

So Elaine dear look down here, look and see how we have done.

We are sending Happy Birthday “Cheers” and hope you are having Birthday fun.

Lots of love on your 30th Birthday, Mammy, Daddy, Aisling, Noel, Kieran, Elaine Ciara, Aoife Kian, Jack and Kealan. xxxxx

Sonny loved music and what a fitting tribute of music was created for his final journey home. The spiritual intensity of the music by Thomas, Padraig, Mary, Ellen and Aileen who’s singing created an everlasting melody which sent grace notes dancing on the pathway between the stars and the new moon in Sonny’s sacred memory.

On a soft gentle Tuesday morning, with the sun high in the crisp skies, Sonny’s cortege left the church grounds to the accompaniment of Pat, a lone piper who played many tunes that were in keeping with Sonny’s repertoire of songs. Thank you to Pat and Jim for this experience. Our gratitude to each one of you who walked with his cortege both young and old. Thank you, dear ones your presence was very much felt in our hearts, In a place of tranquil beauty outside Knockcroghery village Sonny’s final resting place was prepared in Galey Bay Cemetery. This was done in that fine old traditional way, by local grave diggers, Edward Feeney, John, Patrick D, Ollie, Patrick K and Brendan who dug deep into the soil of mother earth and opened a grave – a dwelling place – with rich green palm branches adorning each side, which embodied Sonny’s coffin as he was returned to the earth. A moment of true bliss echoed at the graveside as the South Roscommon Singers, Declan, Jane and Donal, sang a special rendition of Red River Valley and the Black Hills of Dakota. What a final and fitting farewell as we have no doubt that Sonny was smiling down on all of us and enjoying every precious moment.

Our sincere appreciation to Smyth’s Funeral Home for their beautiful sanctuary of peace and tranquillity which afforded us the space to have Sonny remembered.

To Pat Smyth, your professionalism, gentleness and kindness was unwavering throughout all our dealings in a most graceful and sensitive way – our deep gratitude.

Eternal gratitude to John and Eithne Murray, Mike and Emma Jane, Knockcroghery for the excellent food and refreshments they provided after the funeral. We are eternally grateful to John and Eithne, two earth angels for all your love, kindness and support you showed Sonny over the many years. Thank you, Mary Dwyer who pieced together a magnificent video footage of Sonny’s life as a tribute. As a family we embraced and cherished every moment in our hearts.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token our sincere appreciation. Mass will be offered for each of your intentions.

“May Sonny’s gentle presence always be a reflection of his beautiful soul” Sonny’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in Knockcroghery Church on Saturday, 12th February at 11am.

Successful candidates willproviding join a diverse operations Monitoring of hours and administrative team andtobethe responsible Operational reporting, support operationsfor management.

Monitoring of hours and providing administrative support to the operations management.

Professionalism with regards to attitude and performance is essential as well as excellent

knowledge of Excel MS Suite.

Professionalism withand regards to attitude and performance is essential as well as excellent Please email CVs to: recruitment@servicematters.ie knowledge of Excel and MS Suite.

Golf Links Road | Roscommon | F42 DW26 | 090 662 7477 Please email CVs to: recruitment@servicematters.ie www.servicematters.ie

Golf Links Road | Roscommon | F42 DW26 | 090 662 7477 www.servicematters.ie

Receptionist/Accounts Operations Admin Admin Opportunity

Opportunity

Part of CWS Group, Service Matters is one of Ireland’s largest providers in the Hygiene Rental sector. We are recruiting for the Part of CWS Group, Service Matters is one of Ireland’s largest following role:

providers in the Hygiene Rental sector. We are recruiting for the following role: Receptionist/Accounts Admin –

RoscommonAdministrator – Maternity Cover Operations – Roscommon Successful candidates will join an established

accounts and admin team and be responsible for

Successful candidates willofjoin diverse operations the professional running the areception area and team and be responsiblesupport for Operational reporting, providing administrative to the business.

Monitoring of hours and providing administrative support to the operations management.

Professionalism with regards to attitude, image and performance is essential as well as excellent

knowledge of Excel MS Suite.

Professionalism withand regards to attitude and performance is essential as well as excellent Please email CVs to: recruitment@servicematters.ie knowledge of Excel and MS Suite.

Golf Links Road | Roscommon | F42 DW26 | 090 662 7477 Please email CVs to: recruitment@servicematters.ie www.servicematters.ie

Golf Links Road | Roscommon | F42 DW26 | 090 662 7477 www.servicematters.ie

PART TIME STAFF

Required for ladies boutique in Roscommon Town.

Please send your CV and cover letter to: PO Box No 3008 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

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THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

47

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Classifieds

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

Appointments EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES WITH ST HILDA’S SERVICES We now wish to recruit a

PSYCHOLOGIST

ADMIN ASSISTANT

The Brewery

required for busy office in Roscommon Town.

MARKET SQUARE, ROSCOMMON

l Must be proficient in Microsoft Word and EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES WITH ST HILDA’S SERVICES Excel. l The ideal candidate must be fluent in St. Hilda’s Services is a voluntary organisation, grant aided by the HSE. Established in We now wish to recruit a English and have a pleasant phone manner.

1964, St. Hilda’s provides services to people with an intellectual disability. If you have l Responsibilities will include data entry, a passion for working with persons with intellectual disability and you possess the PSYCHOLOGIST answering telephone enquiries and dealing relevant skills and experience, we would love to hear from you: with mail and email.

Ref. 22/01. Psychologist – Basic Grade l This is a full-time position and salary will Part-Time reflect experience.

Based in St Hilda’s Athlone St. Hilda’s Services is a voluntary organisation, grant aided by the HSE. Established in 1964, St. Hilda’s provides services to people with an intellectual disability.

If you have a passion for working with persons with intellectual disability and you possess skills and Applications to the POrelevant Box 3011, Overall Purpose of the Post: experience, we would love to hear from you: c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Provide a psychology service to meet the identified and emerging needs of service users who are supported by St Hilda’s Services. The focus of this position is Roscommon Town, Roscommon Ref. 22/01. Psychologist – Basic Grade behaviour support. by 17th February 2022.

Part-Time St. Hilda’s Services is seeking to appoint a Psychologist willHilda’s be responsible Basedwho in St Athlone for the following: • Provision of psychological assessment, intervention to service users as appropriate.

This includes supports to Post: our service users with intellectual disabilities presenting Overall Purpose of the with a diversity of needs including Autism, mental health difficulties, behaviours that areadescribed as challenging, personal family and relationships issues, Provide psychology service to meet the and identified emerging needs of service users who are supported by St Hilda’s dementia and problems associated with aging, issues in relation to the Services. The focus of this position is behaviour support. development of individualised service arrangements.

• Engage in functional assessments of behaviour and collaborate in the Part-time for new salon in development of behaviour management plans.a Psychologist who will be responsible for the following:St. Hilda’s Services is seeking to appoint • Management of the behaviour support service, including day-to-day management Roscommon Town of the staff team together with provision of professional and clinical supervision.

• and Provision of psychological assessment, intervention to service users as appropriate. This includes supports to our • Develop implement training initiatives for parents/staff in response to service users with intellectual disabilities presenting with a diversity of needs including Autism, mental health identified need.

• Provide assessments relating to the adaptive functioning difficulties, behaviours that are functioning, described asintellectual challenging, personal and family relationships issues, dementia and and emotional wellbeing of servicewith users. problems associated aging, issues in relation to the development of individualised service arrangements.

• Develop interventions drawing uponof concepts and and techniques withinin the development of behaviour management • therapeutic Engage in functional assessments behaviour collaborate various therapeutic frameworks. plans.

• Work with service usersofand familiessupport to implement theincluding therapeutic • our Management thetheir behaviour service, day-to-day management of the staff team together with interventions. provision of professional and clinical supervision.

• Manage confidential data and client information.

Tubbercurry Engineering Roscommon and implement initiatives for parents/staff in response to identified need.

• Attend•andDevelop participate in regular teamtraining and other meetings. has immediate Providewith assessments relating the adaptive functioning, intellectual functioning and emotionalvacancies wellbeingfor of service • Engage• effectively outside agencies andtoadvocate for the service users l Mechanical Tradesmen users. attending the service.

• Develop therapeutic interventions drawing upon concepts and techniques within various therapeutic frameworks. & General Operatives • candidate Work with our service users and their families to implement the therapeutic interventions. l Plumbers - Full & Part-time The ideal will: l Have a Degree or Diploma equivalent) obtained with 1st or • University Manage confidential data(QQ1 and level client8 information. l Sheetmetal Workers - Workshop 2nd class in which Psychology was taken asand a major subject and honours • honours Attend and participate in regular team other meetings. l Sheetmetal Workers - Installers obtained that subject.

• inEngage effectively with outside agencies and advocate for the service users attending the service. and Helpers l Semi-skilled Tradesmen l And have an Irish post-graduate professional psychology qualification accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland in Clinical, or Counselling Psychology or Suitable candidates should contact the office The candidate will: in Educational or Psychology or equivalent from an ideal equivalent qualification for an application form or send their CV by another jurisdiction validated by the Department of Health. post or email to: l Demonstrate working adults with level intellectual disabilities Ø Have competence a universityin degree or with diploma (QQ1 8 equivalent) obtained with 1st Tubercurry or 2nd class honours in & which Engineering Services - either Psychology at least 60 days or taken equivalent clinical as part ofin that subject. was as asupervised major subject andplacements honours obtained IDA Business Park, Racecourse Road, the professional qualification; or at least 60 days or equivalent post-qualification Ø And have an Irish post-graduate professional psychology qualification accredited by the Psychological Society of Roscommon. supervised work experience as a psychologist.

Ireland in Clinical, or Counselling Psychology or an equivalent qualification in Educational or Psychology or equivalent l Must be eligible to work in Ireland email: monica@tesg.ie from another jurisdiction validated by the Department of Health. l Excellent communication skills – oral and written Phone: 090 34862/63/64 Demonstrate competence in working with adults with intellectual disabilities - either at least 6066 days or equivalent l FullØClean Licence – access to own vehicle supervised clinical placements as part of the professional qualification; or at least 60 days or equivalent postqualification supervised work experience as a psychologist.

Application form and Garda Vetting Form NVB1 may Ø Must be eligible to work in Ireland be downloaded Ø Excellent communication skills – oralhere and written http://www.sthildas.ie/recruitment/ Ø Full Clean Licence – access to own vehicle Alternatively you may request them by calling 090 6475825

For The Brewery Bar in Roscommon Town.

MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE. Phone Matthew

086 8100701

SITUATIONS VACANT

HAIR STYLIST JUNIOR STYLIST WANTED

< CHILDMINDER: Required to mind 8 month old baby from May onwards in Fuerty/Castlecoote/Creggs/Roscommon Town area in childminders own home, Monday to Friday. Must have good english and own transport. Please apply to: PO Box No 3012 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone 087 3489922

< CHILDMINDER: Required to mind 3 children, 3 days per week in childrens own home in Four Mile House. School pickups required.

Good english essential. Please apply to: PO Box No 3013 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

HAIR STYLIST

Please forward yourApplication completed Application Form, Required for busy salon in form and Garda Vetting Form NVB1 may be downloaded here Covering Letter and Formhttp://www.sthildas.ie/recruitment/ NVB1 Strokestown (marking envelope “Ref. 22/01”), Alternatively you may request them by calling 090 6475825 FULL/PART-TIME POSITION by the 28/02/2022 to: Please forward your completed Form, Covering Letter and Form NVB1 H.R. Manager, St. Hilda’s Services, Central Offices,Application Grace Park Road, Phone 086 3469409 (marking envelope “Ref. 22/01”), by the 28/02/2022 Athlone, Co. Westmeath. to:-H.R. Manager, St. Hilda’s Services, Central Offices, Grace Park Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.

Locally owned ...

St. Hilda’s Services is an equal opportunities Employer. Short-listing based on the in the heart of the St. Hilda’sinformation Services is anprovided equal opportunities provided may apply may apply Employer. Short-listing based on the information community

St. Hilda’s is an equal opportunities employer. Short-listing may apply.

BAR PERSON REQUIRED

< CHILDMINDER: Required for the Lecarrow /Kiltoom/Knockcroghery area. Flexible hours and location. Telephone: 087 773 9671

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

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The local paper!

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

48

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

AtYourService BLINDS

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

CARS

FARMING

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

BRENDAN DOOLIN

TEL: (090) 96 88606

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

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

Chimney Problems

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining • Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

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

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

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

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

Daily collection

INSURANCE CLAIMS

Tel: 090

6621220

VETERINARY

Tel: 087 0944027

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

Martin Hibbitt CIP, CDIP Martin HibbittAPA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Mountbellew, Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway

info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 0879818153 9818153Co. Galway info@mhla.ie Mountbellew, 091 || 087 info@mhla.ie 091 380900 380900 087 9818153

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

www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 Certified Dip in Loss Certified Certified Dip Dip in in Loss Loss Adjusting Adjusting Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Loss Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

Chris’s Window Service

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

Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting

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

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

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

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

DRIVING LESSONS

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

info@mhla.ie

ApprovedProduct Product Member of the PSAB-GI Approved Member Approved Member of of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Advisor Product Advisor by the Central www.mhla.ie Regulated Advisor Regulated by the the Central Central Regulated by Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Member ofofthe Insurance Bank of Ireland Institute Ireland Institute of Ireland Institute of Ireland Approved Product Member of the PSAB-GI

Advisor

Loss Assessor Services Member of the Insurance PROPERTY Institute of Ireland

RO S l

l

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

INSULATION

Lowest price guaranteed

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted.

End of life certs can be provided.

Also scrap metal

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

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

ROS Property Services

Extensions l Renovations l Property Maintenance

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055 You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions

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

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

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

l

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

WARD BROS QUARRY SUPPLIERS OF ALL TYPES OF: • Stone • Sand & Gravel • Topsoil • Readymix • Plant Hire

FOR KEENEST QUOTES CALL

071 96 33222

E: wardbrosltd@gmail.com

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

Sports PEOPLE

49

Time to kick on: Hugh Rooney improvises his clearance during Roscommon’s drawn NHL Division 3A match against Tyrone at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The only way is up for Ollie!

PROMOTION THE AIM AS LADIES’ LEAGUE CAMPAIGN BEGINS IN DOWN Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 3 (Round One): Down v Roscommon on Sunday in Newry at 2 pm

< SEAMUS DUKE

The Roscommon Ladies footballers will be targeting promotion to Division Two when they begin their 2022 national league campaign under new manager Ollie Lennon in Newry this Sunday.

The Rossies have enjoyed a good recent record against Down but can’t take anything for granted this weekend.

The new Roscommon manager spoke to People Sport earlier this week and said that while preparations have gone well, the injury list is still a concern.

“We have been working away with a panel of 33

All-Ireland finalists!

Irish title for Lisa O’Rourke!

Castlerea boxer, Lisa

O’Rourke, claimed the National U-22 70kg title on Saturday last with a 4-1 split decision win over Evelyn Igharo.

The final was a repeat of last October’s Elite National Final with Lisa, fighting out of Olympic Boxing Club, Galway, reversing that result over the Clann Naofa BC fighter.

Convent of Mercy, Roscommon are through to the All-Ireland Senior Schools Camogie ‘C’ Final following their comprehensive 2-8 to 0-1 win against Killina Presentation Secondary School (Offaly) last Saturday in Lisnamult.

The Convent led by 0-6 to 0-1 at half-time and sealed a memorable win with two second-half goals.

Their hard work will now continue under the management team of Teresa Hession, Edel Connolly, Katie Lavin and Martin McManus ahead of the final in a few weeks’ time.

It promises to be a busy few weeks for the game in the county as Oran and Athleague currently preparing for their respective All-Ireland junior semi-finals in a little under two weeks’ time.

Pictured right are the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon camogie team celebrates following their impressive win over Killina Presentation Secondary School in last Saturday’s All-Ireland Senior Schools Camogie semi-final in Lisnamult.

Pic courtesy of Convent of Mercy, Roscommon.

players training but we have had to plan without three established players in Natalie McHugh, Sarah McVeigh and Honor Ennis, all of whom are out with injury,” Lennon said.

“The rest of the panel has been working hard and we have played a number of challenge games over the past few weeks against Laois, Tyrone and Mayo and we feel that we have prepared well”.

Ollie says that while his management team are not entirely familiar with this year’s Down panel, Sunday is expected to be a physical battle.

“Roscommon have played Down a number of times over the years but we are not sure what kind of a panel they have this year. The players would know

Down having played them a number of times, but we as a management team we are not that familiar with them,” he said.

“One thing is for certain though, it is always a tough physical battle when you have to travel up north for these games”.

The Roscommon manager once again highlighted promotion as the main aim this term.

“We want to get out of this division and up to Division Two but we will be taking it one game at a time. Our next game is away to Louth on the 20th of February, but we are concentrating on Down now and we hope to do well this Sunday,” he concluded.

Prediction: Roscommon

50

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses Racing in Ireland today is in Thurles, starting at 1.45 pm.

Racing this weekend starts tomorrow on the all-weather at Dundalk, away at 4 pm.

On Saturday, racing is at Naas, first race at 1.40 pm featuring the Listed Opera Hat Mares Chase. On Sunday, still in Co. Kildare, racing is at Punchestown, featuring the Grade B Grand National Trial Handicap Chase and opening with the PP Hogan Memorial Cross Country Chase, first race at 1.40 pm.

There is cross channel racing on TV on Saturday. ITV features five races from Newbury, including both the Grade 2 Denman Chase and Game Spirit Chase and 3 from Warwick including the Grade 2 Kingmaker Novice Chase.

Review of the Week The Dublin Racing Festival took place last weekend and the opening Grade 1 race, the Novice Hurdle, race gave Willie Mullins the ideal start with nephew Danny bringing home Minella Cocooner, 11/1, outsider of his runners from the Elliott pair of Minella Crooner and the favourite Hollow Games.

In the Juvenile Hurdle, Mullins was on the mark gain with Vabaun and Davy Russell who beat Elliott’s Fil Dor, the favourite Mullins also trained the third home Il Etait Temps with Danny doing the steering.

The Arkle Novice Chase provided the hattrick as Blue Word, under another jockey Paul Townend, beat the Elliott trained fav Riverie D’etel with Mullins’ Saint Sam back in third. Good Time Jonny trained by Tony Martin for a few Irish lads in New York won the Grade B Handicap Hurdle getting up on the line to win from the favourite Rightplacerightime, trained by

Emmet Mullins and John Patrick Ryan’s The Little Yank.

The final Grade 1 on the card, the Irish Gold Cup, provided some compensation for Elliott but not the punters as Conflated won at 11/1 with Davy Russell completing a double on the card, beating Minella Indo and Jandil 6½l and a neck.

The Grade B Handicap Chase Joseph O’Brien trained, JP McManus owned, and ridden by claimer Shane Fitzgerald ridden beat Grange Walk and Batcio.

The Grade 2 Bumper provided the easiest winner of the weekend as son of Quevega, Facile Vega completely floored a strong field containing 6 other bumper winners by 12l and 8l from Paul Nolan’s Sandor Clegane and Stewart Crawford’s Carnfunnock.

Sunday opened with the Grade B Handicap Hurdle, providing Elliott with a 1, 2 as Party Central, 7/4f, beat Say Goodbye by 1¾l with Banntown Girl third 6 ½ l further back.

The Grade 1 Novice Chase went to Mullins and Townend as Galopin Des Champ, 4/9f, beat Master McShee trained by Paddy Corkery and his stablemate Galliard Du Mensil.

Chacun Por Soi, 4/7f, made it a Grade 1 double for Mullins and Townend beating Dunvegan and Captain Guinness.

The Grade A Leopardstown Handicap Chase was won by the Enda Bolger trained 9/2 favourite, Birchdale, ridden by claimer Mark McDonagh from the 33/1 shots Foxy Jacks and Winter Escape.

The Irish Champion Hurdle saw only five go to post with Honeysuckle and Rachael Blackmore cheered all the way down to the start. It was nothing to the crescendo that followed as the pair pulled clear entering the straight to give the mare her 14th un-

Conflated runs out an easy winner of the Irish Gold Cup from Minella Indo and Jandil.

beaten run on the track, all over hurdles, 15 including her point-to-point win, beating the great Bula’s record of 13 wins in his first 13 races. She equalled the record both Istabraq and Hurricane Fly winning three Irish Champion Hurdles.

Roll on Prestbury Park and hopefully the greatest Irish Cheer ever heard among the rolling Cotswold Hills.

The final Grade 1 race, The Novice Hurdle, saw Mullins and Townend back in the number one spot with another odds-on favourite, Sir Gerhard, who beat Three Stripe Life and Colonel Mustard by 6l and the same.

The penultimate Grade B Liffey Handicap Hurdle provided another Irish victory as Elliott’s Call Me Lyreen gave Davy Russell his third winner of the meeting beating his stablemate Mighty Tricks and Jessica Harrington’s Autumn Evening.

The festival closed with the finest finish one could wish to see as 40/1 shot Lily Du Berlais came with a late run to pip Battling Bessie, 33/1, and Liberty Dance, 11/1, by a nose and a short head. The Mullins’ pair

Athlone

Short putts (News from local golf clubs)

by Tom Red

Cepta McLoughlin won the recent Ladies’ 12-hole competition with 21 points while Chris Fuery won the 97 Club competition with 22 points. M. Ó Faolain was the winner of the recent AWGS competition with 26 points.

The Winter League Final play-off will take place this Saturday (12th) with the top 16 teams in competition following a shotgun start commencing at 9.30 am.

The top five teams are currently: 1st: Team 19 (Frankie Donnelly) 474 points; 2nd: Team 17 (Eamonn Kenny) 471; 3rd: Team 9 (Leo Flynn) 470; 4th: Team 16 (Derek Kenna) 469; 5th: Team 15 (Paul Hunter) 467.

The Ladies’ Winter League final is proposed for Sunday, March 5th.

Athlone Golf Club extends its deepest sympathies to member Maura Kelly on the recent death of her father, Michael. Club members were also deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Fr. John Condon of Ferrybank in Waterford. Fr. John was the Golf Professional in the early sixties before he commenced his studies for the priesthood. May he rest in peace.

Members also extend their sympathy to the relatives and friends of PJ (Poncho) Murray. PJ was the chief photographer for many years in the club and was re-

of Ashroe Diamond and Pink In The Park were a further ½l and a neck behind. The winner is likely to go to Aintree. Mullins ended up leading trainer with seven winners, Townend leading rider with five.

The highlight of the weekend for most punters was our two Queens of Irish racing, Rachael Blackmore and Honeysuckle, winning their third Irish Champion Hurdle so easily. But I think we might have seen her successor, in a couple of years’ time, in the bumper on Saturday, Facile Vega will beat all in Cheltenham, bar something going wrong with him, and even Paul Nolan is having second thoughts about taking him on again in Cheltenham with the runner-up. He looks good enough and has the speed to tackle some of those 2m big handicap flat races later in the year.

Racing News The Barney Curley’s Direct Aid for Africa charity has received €104,000 raised on Thursday, September 30th in

Bellewstown Racecourse who hosted a special race in memory of Barney Curley. Plans are in place to hold a similar meeting this year.

Lorna Fowler’s Colonel Mustard is set to bypass the Cheltenham Festival after being beaten by Sir Gerhard at Leopardstown on Sunday. The 7-Y-0 was runner-up to Jonbon at Ascot prior to that run.

The County Meath handler has decided Colonel Mustard will most likely give the Cheltenham Festival a miss and run at Aintree.

2022 Cheltenham Festival Sharjah will miss the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle, but WP Mullins hopes to have him back fit for Punchestown in late April. He was runner-up in the race last year to Honeysuckle and to Epatante in 2020 and brought down at the third in 2019.

Gordon Elliott plans to run both Fil Dor, runner-up at Leopardstown, and Cheltenham Trials Day winner Pied Piper, in the JCB Triumph

nowned for his professionalism, great patience and wit on presentation nights. His attention to detail was legendary. Rest well PJ.

Boyle Adam Daly was the winner of the recent 18-hole Stableford in Boyle with 48 points. Jim Suffin (37) was second and Gabriel Lavin (36) third.

There will be a 9-hole re-entry competition running until February 26th as well as the Spring League for all members. The Captain’s Drive In is scheduled for February 27th.

Carrick Congratulations to Monica Shannon (21 points) and Colm Loftus (22), who were the winners in round one of the Flynn’s sponsored Spring League.

The top five teams in week one: Team 1 (Phil McWeeney) 87 points; Team 2 (Damien Duignan) 88; Team 3 (Oliver Curran) 84; Team 4 (Garry Vesey) 84; Team 5 (Kathleen Loftus) 75; Team 6 (Siobhan Talbot) 91; Team 7 (David McDermott) 38; Team 8 (Mary King) 90; Team 9 (Darren Conlon) 64; Team 10 (Chris Lowe) 92; Team 11 (Carmel Stritch) 73.

Hurdle. He has Irish Gold Cup hero Conflated and Galvin in the Cheltenham Gold Cup wthe Ryanair remaining an option for Conflated.

Stuart Crawford is eyeing the Cheltenham festival handicaps with his Kelso winner Saint D’oroux last week.

He will enter him in a few of the handicaps including the Coral Cup on the Tuesday. The Saint des Saints 6-Y-O gelding, formerly trained by Gordon Elliott and Denise Foster, made a winning debut for the Larne handler at the Scottish venue.

Point-to-Point Corner Racing is scheduled on the northern circuit at Kirkistown in Co. Down for Saturday with 87 entries and a 1 pm off, and there are three meetings down for decision in the south on Sunday.

At Knockanard near Fermoy in Cork with 107 entries, at Comea between Cashel and Tipperary with 92 entries, and at Oldtown in north Dublin with 131 entries, all three down for a 12.30 pm start.

Roscommon The club Drive In is scheduled to take place on Sunday, February 20th with a three-person 9-hole Scramble. The club is hoping for a good turnout to wish our officers, Charlie, Kieran and Ruth all the best for 2022.

The men’s results for Sunday, January 30th were as follows: 1st: P. Finneran (35 points); 2nd: J. Somers (33); 3rd: J. Carr (32); Gross: D. O’Brien (27).

W. Doyle was the winner of the Men’s Senior competition with 37 points. Other results: Cat 1: G. Finn (32); Cat 2: C. Doherty (35); Cat 3: E. Finneran (32); Over 80: M. O’Connor (26).

K. Blighe was the winner of the Ladies’ 9-hole competition with 21 points while B. Browne was runnerup with 21.

The Ladies’ Senior competition was won by M. Lalor while M. O’Gara, M. Madden and M. Dolan were second, third and fourth respectively.

Finally, the Ladies’ Winter League has reached the matchplay stages and the semi-final pairings are as follows: Team 11 9Anne Quirke, Bernie Browne and Martina Brennan) v Team 3 (Joan O’Gara, Colette Glynn and Kathleen Gordon); Team 16 (Sandra Crean, Noreen O’Grady and Myra Walsh) v Team 8 (Kate Walsh, Marina Dolan and Helen Earley).

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Creggs braced for Westport collision Connacht J1A League Semi-Final: Creggs RFC v Westport RFC on Sunday at 2.30 pm in Creggs < DAN DOONER

Looking ahead to this Sunday’s showdown with Westport in the Connacht J1A League semi-final, Creggs head coach Pat Cunningham told People Sport he was pleased with the start his charges have made to the year.

“We’ve made a good start. We finished top of the regular standings in the league, which is something we would have tar-

geted in pre-season. We also won the Cawley Cup for the third time in a row this year so we couldn’t really have asked for any more from the players,” he said.

“The success of winning three Cawley Cups and our impressive form in the league does provide us with a lot of confidence.

It also makes the players hungrier to take the next step”.

Creggs beat their archrivals Connemara en route to claiming more Cawley Cup honours this season, which could yet prove to be a major breakthrough for the village side.

“It was a huge psychological boost to beat a very

Powering forward: Creggs beat Westport 31-18 in round four of the Connacht J1A League last November. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Creggs RFC Report

good Connemara team in the semi-final of the Cawley Cup. That gives us the belief to go even further in competitions this season,” Pat said.

“But now the real excitement begins. We have a very tough game against Westport this Sunday and plenty of other tough games coming up over the next few weeks”.

There are no new injury worries ahead of Sunday’s semi-final and the squad has been put through its paces with training and video analysis sessions over the last few days.

“The squad is looking good. We have a couple of players coming back from injury but they should be Ok for Sunday against Westport. We’ve been preparing well and we know we’re in for a tough game and a period where we’ll have one big test after another,” Pat added.

The impressive development of rugby in Creggs in something the head coach is proud of and this has provided a solid platform for progression for both first and development teams.

“We’re very lucky with the development of the facilities and the club itself over the last few years.

That has fed through to success at underage levels and there’s great quality coming through. Those lads are then sticking

Creggs coach Michael Harding puts the players through their paces during training this week.

around to play their rugby here at adult level which is very important,” Pat said.

“We have a young team and the next step is huge for us but hopefully it will mean bringing some of the bigger trophies back to Creggs in the coming years”.

Creggs faced Westport last November in the league and came away with an impressive 3118 win at The Green.

The Cawley Cup holders will be quietly confident of continuing their impressive recent form and booking their place in the Connacht League final this Sunday.

Prediction: Creggs RFC

Head coach Pat Cunningham (far right) takes his Creggs players through a video analysis session ahead of Sunday’s Connacht J1A League semi-final against Westport.

THE GAIN LINE

Girls deliver home cup win!

Creggs RFC 29 Westport/ Corrib RFC 24 (Connacht Girls U-14 Cup): Creggs welcomed Westport/Corrib to The Green for the first time last Saturday and both teams put on an exciting exhibition of attacking rugby with the hosts running out narrow winners by five points thanks to a last-minute try from Sadie Dempsey.

Captain Ciara Downey led by example for Creggs with a try in each half while Grace Shaughnessy also crossed over and kicked two conversions in wet and windy conditions.

In what was an end to end match, Emily Kelly went over for Creggs with ten minutes remaining before Westport responded with their own try six minutes later to leave the game tied at 24-24 going into the latter stages.

Creggs regained possession from the restart and worked their way up the field before Dempsey drove through the visitors’ defence to seal a dramatic win.

Creggs will now travel to Loughrea RFC in two weeks’ time.

Creggs RFC 27 Loughrea RFC 5 (Boys’ U-15 friendly): Creggs U-15s enjoyed an impressive 22-point win over visitors Loughrea last Sunday morning.

A home try within three minutes set the tone and Creggs led 15-0 at half-time before adding two more tries in the second half as the team continues preparations for their cup campaign next month.

Meanwhile, Claremorris Colts travelled to Creggs last Sunday for two friendly matches against the Creggs U-16 and U-18 Girls sides. It

Creggs Girls U-14s beat Westport/Corrib 29-24 in the Connacht Cup last Saturday.

proved to be a very worthwhile workout as the girls prepare for their upcoming Connacht Cup campaign.

Youth fixtures

Creggs U-14 Boys v Loughrea

RFC (Friendly) on Saturday at 12 pm in Creggs; Creggs U-16 Girls v Castlebar RFC (Connacht Cup) on Saturday at 12 pm in Creggs; Creggs U-18.5s v Tuam/ Dunmore RFC (Connacht Cup) on Sunday at 4.45 pm in Creggs.

Mini Rugby Training continues in Creggs this Saturday morning at 10 am for all age groups. New players (Boys and Girls) welcome at all ages from U-7 to U-12.

Win Ireland v England tickets!

Now is your chance to win a super trip for two to Twickenham to watch Ireland take on England in the Six Nations later this month.

To be in with a chance of winning simply enter the Creggs RFC Development Draw (www.win50000euro. com). You will be entered into all subsequent draws including the huge €50,000 top prize draw in April!

Congratulations to January Draw winner, Annette O’Dowd, who scooped a €2,000 Kelair Campotel voucher!

To win, purchase tickets from committee/club members or visit www. win50000euro.com.

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Midlands Motor Club members take part in Galway International Rally Congratulations to Midland Motor Club members Sam Johnston and Colin Duffy, who came first in class 11F and sixteenth overall, and to Vincent Collins and Jane Collins, who came first in Class 12 and twenty-fifth overall in the Galway International Rally last weekend.

Congratulations also to Stephen Faughnan and Amy Faughnan, who got going again and finished thirty-seventh overall.

Well done and thanks to all our marshals who helped out at the event in the wet and cold weather.

Stephen Faughnan and Amy Faughnan finished thirty-seventh overall in the Galway International Rally. Pic: Keith Farrell

Vincent Collins and Jane Collins came first in Class 12 and twenty-fifth overall. Pic: Keith Farrell

Sam Johnston and Colin Duffy came first in class 11F and sixteenth overall. Pic: Keith Farrell

Mud, sweat and cheers…

Cyrille Bikoi of CBS Roscommon competing in the senior boys event during the Irish Life Health Connacht Schools Cross Country at Bushfield in Loughrea, Galway, recently. Photo: McShane/ Sportsfile

Soccer Results Norio’s Premier Division Moore United v Ballymoe FC, postponed.

Kilkerrin United v Boyle Celtic, postponed.

Moylough ’79 0 Ballinasloe Town 4 St. John’s Athletic 3 Ballaghaderreen FC 2 Cloonfad United v Castlerea Celtic, postponed.

RDFL Division One Shiven Rovers v Dysart FC, postponed.

Roscommon United v Glen Celtic, postponed.

Ballinagare Manor United v Dunmore Town, postponed.

Ballinasloe Town B 1 CP Ajax 2 RDFL Division Two Boyle Celtic B v Ballymoe FC B, postponed.

Dunmore Town B 1 Ballaghaderreen FC B 2 Cloonfad United B 2 St. John’s Athletic B 4 Moore United B v Roscommon United B, postponed.

St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United v Rahara Rovers, postponed.

Skyvalley Rovers 3 Cam Celtic 2

Arturo Martinez Sanchez of Colaiste Chiaran, Athlone, Roscommon, on his way to winning the intermediate boys event during the Irish Life Health Connacht Schools Cross Country at Bushfield in Loughrea, Galway recently.

Photo: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

Eamon Coyle of CBS Roscommon competing in the junior boys event during the Irish Life Health Connacht Schools Cross Country at Bushfield in Loughrea, Galway recently. Photo: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

Soccer Roscommon Town wants you!

Due to the growth of Roscommon Town Youth Soccer Club and a shortage of volunteers, the club urgently requires assistance from parents/guardians to enable it to operate successfully this season, while continuing it its goal of developing young players.

Roscommon Town requires people to assist in various ways throughout the season ahead and cannot continue to proceed with registration until support is received. Many hands make light work.

Please text 087-7665993 before Monday, February 14th if you can offer some assistance. The club looks forward to hearing from you.

Women’s League Q&A evening

Roscommon & District Football League will host a Q&A evening with those interested in a women’s soccer league this season.

The event will take place at league grounds in Lecarrow at 7.30 pm next Tuesday (15th). This will involve a two-way question and answer session between clubs and league officials.

St. Cuan’s to establish first ever women’s team

St. Cuans United are in the process of preparing for

the start of what promises to be an exciting new season ahead. Training will commence the week of February 28th for all underage teams.

Following news the amalgamation of the MidWestern Girls League with the Roscommon District Youth Soccer League, the club will also enter its first ever women’s team into competition.

A meet and greet for those interested in this new team will take place with coaches Catherine and Steve on Thursday, February 24th. For more information, please contact Director of Football Tom on 0874610583, Secretary Mary on 087-9290193 or send an email to stcuansutd@gmail.com.

FAI to run Adult Game Coaching Workshop on Thursday 24th

The FAI will run a free Adult Game Coaching Workshop on Thursday, February 24th at the Roscommon & District League grounds in Lecarrow.

This workshop is targeted at all managers working with adult teams in Roscommon and takes place from 7 pm to 9.30 pm.

The workshop takes place from 7 pm to 9.30 pm and will provide practical ideas and discussions around maximising coaching time, challenging and engaging adult players, and working with young players within an adult environment.

Handball

Junior title for Creaton Lisacul’s Denis Creaton beat his clubmate, training partner and doubles partner Sean Jennings in the 40x20 Junior county final last Saturday. As expected, with these two knowing each other’s games so well, it was a tight affair throughout with Denis prevailing 2112, 14-21, 11-7. Next up for Denis is another battle against his old rival Ciaran Burke from Mayo.

On the same bill, St. Coman’s’ Glenn Walshe overcame the stiff challenge of John Coggeran from Kilglass in the Masters ‘B’ grade. Glenn was a little sluggish early on and John really put it up to him before Glenn’s smoother style and excellent serving took him to a 21-17, 21-3 victory.

Siobhan Treacy is in a rich vein of form from the recent Coviddelayed 2020 juvenile championships and is now looking to make her mark in the Ladies Junior ‘B’ grade. She got off to a great start when she had a comfortable victory over Laura Mannion in St. Coman’s last Saturday.

Showing a very improved sidearm stroke along with her usual cool shot selection, Siobhan won 21-5, 21-5.

Fixtures Friday, February 11th Norio’s Premier Division Ballymoe FC v Kilkerrin United. 8 pm RDFL Division Two (8 pm) Moore United B v St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United Boyle Celtic B v Roscommon United B

Saturday, February 12th Norio’s Premier Division (8 pm) Castlerea Celtic v St. John’s Athletic RDFL Division One Skyvalley Rovers v Glen Celtic. 8 pm

Sunday, February 13th FAI Centenary Junior Cup Fifth Round (2 pm) Ballinasloe Town v Ballyheane Athletic Villa FC v Boyle Celtic Norio’s Premier Division Cloonfad United v Moore United. 11 am Ballaghaderreen FC v Moylough ’79. 2 pm RDFL Division One (11 am) Dunmore Town v Shiven Rovers CP Ajax v Ballinagare Manor United Dysart FC v Roscommon United RDFL Division Two St. John’s Athletic B v Cam Celtic. 11 am Dunmore Town B v Cloonfad United B. 2 pm Skyvalley Rovers B v Ballaghaderreen FC B. 2 pm Ballymoe FC B v Rahara Rovers. 2 pm

<< Weekend Rewind

Roscommon People Friday 11 February 2022

The

GAA Studio COMPILED BY PAUL HEALY

>>

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Weekend Fast-forward

Team of the weekend…

We’ll just marginally give the award to Kerry (comfortable winners over great rivals, Dublin) – with very honourable mention to Armagh, Roscommon, Mayo and Leitrim.

Tipp top from Leitrim A certain amount (exact number unknown) of eyebrows were raised when Mayo great Andy Moran took up the managerial reins with our friends in Leitrim. It was a fascinating appointment, followed (by coincidence) shortly afterwards by an autobiography from Moran, the original style of which suggested that this is a thinking man who may well have a lot to offer in a managerial/coaching capacity.

Leitrim’s first two league games under Moran have produced two very encouraging performances and one humdinger of a result.

A four-point defeat to 2020 Ulster champions Cavan was followed last Sunday by a very impressive 2-16 to 2-8 win over the 2020 Munster champions, Tipperary. Promising early signs from Leitrim – and Moran.

Shock as goalkeepers fail to score…

I note that neither Mayo goalkeeper Rob Hennelly or his Monaghan counterpart Rory Beggan scored when the counties met on Sunday. This sudden scoring ‘drought’ – okay, one game – on the part of the two ‘keepers isn’t quite reaching Harry Kane proportions yet, but we will of course be keeping an eye on this worrying development.

All six, er five, Connacht counties win Seamus Duke advises that this is the first time in many, many years that all five Connacht counties achieved National Football League wins on the same weekend.

There were wins for Mayo (v Monaghan), Galway (v Down), Roscommon (v Meath), Sligo (v Carlow) and Leitrim (v Tipperary). In addition, a ‘sixth’ ‘Connacht’ county, London, also won! (No need for that old joke about London having a huge ‘pick’, a quip which has been attributed to a few well-known Rossies over the years!).

Odds on going up

Roscommon supporters pictured in Navan on Sunday where Roscommon defeated Meath to make it two wins from two in the National Football League. Photo: Mick McCormack

Many fans will welcome Gough’s tough stance!

It was quite the moment. It came about 74 and a half minutes into the Tyrone-Armagh match. I know there has been some talk of overreaction by referee David Gough, even some talk of mistaken identity, but for many neutrals, it was a

heartwarming sight to see the ref flash the red card at four Tyrone men (one Armagh man got the same punishment).

For too long, successive Tyrone teams have been guilty of the type of unsightly conduct that marred the end of

Sunday’s game. They are not alone in excelling at the dark arts, but they are masters of this.

On Sunday, a row which broke out towards the end of the game (won by Armagh) saw several players brawl for

a prolonged period.

Some people will say it was mere ‘handbags’ (see Paul Healy’s Week), but it’s unseemly and unpleasant, and a terrible example to children.

Good on David Gough for startling Tyrone!

It’s competitive at the top of Division 2 – don’t just take my word for it, BoyleSports sees it the same way!

On foot of Galway making it two wins from two, BoyleSports cut the odds on the maroon men winning the division to 8/11 (from 6/5). Roscommon are now 3/1 from 9/2 to earn promotion as Division 2 winners. That’s just below Derry in the betting (5/2).

Now that’s quite enough publicity from us for the betting industry…

Colm disapproves of ‘unsightly behaviour’ MEDIA TRAWL: The great Colm O’Rourke, long-time pundit on The Sunday Game, somehow managed to park the memory of his playing days as a star forward with an, eh, no-nonsense Meath team, when he gave this view on Armagh v Tyrone and Five Red Card-gate: “There is a rule in the book of contributing to a melee and as far as I’m concerned the referee was perfectly within his right to send off those, he could have even sent off more.

“For me it’s the most unsightly thing as part of our game at the moment, this pulling, gouging, scraping, elbowing, the odd fist here and there, it’s an unsightly behaviour”.

There are no reports of butter melting in Colm’s mouth!

Ouch! Cian McKeon may have had a sore forehead after this accidental clash with Meath goalkeeper Harry Hogan during last Sunday’s match. Photo: Mick McCormack

Mickey Joe Egan and Ruairi Devlin pictured squaring up to one another during Sunday’s National Hurling League game between Roscommon and Tyrone in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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After impressive win over Meath, Roscommon switch focus to Clare date RESTED STARS RETURN THIS WEEK Allianz National Football League Division 2

Roscommon 1-15 Meath 1-11 < SEAMUS DUKE

Conor Cox in action during last Sunday’s NFL Division Two match between Roscommon and Meath at Pairc Tailteann in Navan. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon manager Anthony Cunningham will have a welcome selection ‘headache’ ahead of the team’s next outing as the in-form Rossies aim for three wins for three when they take on fellow unbeaten side, Clare.

The Padraig Pearses and St. Faithleach’s players who haven’t been involved in the league campaign yet – due to their recent respective AllIreland club exertions – are rejoining the panel this week and will be in contention for places when Roscommon face Clare at Hyde Park on Sunday week.

The suspicion is that it will be hard to drop any of the players who have done so well so far.

Cunningham, who was delighted with Roscommon’s win over Meath in Navan last Sun-

Niall Kilroy battles for possession during last Sunday’s NFL Division Two match between Roscommon and Meath in Navan. Pic: Mick McCormack

day, confirmed to People Sport that the rested players will be back with the squad this week.

Maintaining their excellent start to the league campaign, Roscommon withstood a late Meath rally to emerge deserved winners by four points after an incident-packed game played in very difficult conditions at Pairc Tailteann.

Roscommon boss Anthony Cunningham described it as a “very satisfying” win.

“We made it hard for ourselves there at the finish. It was a really solid performance for threequarters of the match. We lost our way a bit towards the end.

But when you come up here and play Meath you expect a battle and that’s what we got in the finish.

“We got some very good scores and some of our defending was very good, and the two

lads at midfield did really well for long periods. The ten minutes before half-time is where the match was won”.

Over 83 minutes of action, eight yellow cards and two black cards were issued, as well as two red cards, one to Meath sub James McEntee, the other to Meath manager Andy McEntee. Throw in two goals, great saves, a melee, a nail-biting finish, and a raucous atmosphere, and it was like old times between these two great footballing counties.

Playing with the gale-force wind at their backs, Roscommon were slow to start. Conor Cox – back on the team after missing the win against Cork – and Cian McKeon opened the Roscommon scoring before Meath got a very well-taken goal from Matthew Costello after Colm Lavin had made a great save from Jordan Morris.

After eight minutes, Meath led by 1-1 to 0-2.

Points from Donie and Enda Smith levelled matters by the 14th minute and a minute later Roscommon were three ahead with a great team goal. Enda Smith and Conor Cox were involved before Cathal Heneghan fisted to the net at the far post.

Meath were competitive until the 20th minute, trailing by only two points (1-5 to 1-3) at that stage.

From there to the interval Roscommon played some delightful attacking football. Eddie Nolan (who had a great game at midfield) and Enda Smith (with a brilliant score) began the onslaught, before Conor Cox got in on the act with three points in 90 seconds. When Ultan Harney and Donie Smith weighed in with two more points, it was 1-12 to 1-3 to Roscommon at the break. The Meath cause was not helped when Robin Clarke got a black card for dissent from referee Jerome Henry on 35 minutes.

Conor Cox pointed two frees in the first ten minutes of the second half, and by the 45th minute Roscommon led by 1-14 to 1-4. As the expected Meath revival finally began to materialise, Roscommon went a remarkable 32 minutes without a score. In the 55th minute Conor Cox got a mysterious black card when it actually looked as if he might have been fouled in the incident in question.

Meath cut the deficit to six (two of the scores coming when

Ultan Harney assesses his options during last Sunday’s NFL Division Two match between Roscommon and Meath at Pairc Tailteann in Navan. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Back of the net! Cathal Heneghan scored Roscommon’s only goal during last Sunday’s NFL Division Two match at Pairc Tailteann in Navan. Pic: Mick McCormack

Cox was off the field). Amid increasing tension, tempers were becoming frayed. In the 67th minute Meath sub James McEntee was shown a straight red card after a clash with Ultan Harney. As several players from both sides got involved in a melee, referee Henry showed a straight red to Meath manager Andy McEntee in response to his protestations.

That incident seemed to fire up the Royals, who were further encouraged when the board showed there would be eight minutes of additional time. Points from Niall Keane and two from Jordan Morris reduced the gap to a goal, 1-14 to 1-11. In a welter of excitement Roscommon cleverly worked the ball downfield and Conor Cox converted a close-range free for the ‘insurance point’.

It was a super win for Roscommon. Four points out of four is a fantastic start to the league campaign. Brian Stack, Eoin McCormack, Ultan Harney, Eddie Nolan, Cathal Heneghan, Enda Smith, Conor Cox and Donie Smith were outstanding again.

Next up now is Clare on Sunday week – and that welcome selection dilemma!

Teams and scorers Roscommon: Colm Lavin; Fergal Lennon, Brian Stack, Eoin McCormack; Richard Hughes, Conor Hussey, Dylan Ruane; Ultan Harney (0-1), Eddie Nolan (0-1); Niall Kilroy, Enda Smith (0-2), Cathal Heneghan (1-1); Conor Cox (0-7, 5 frees, 1 m), Donie Smith (0-2), Cian McKeon (0-1, 1 m).

Subs: Ciaran Lawless for Heneghan (57), Niall Higgins for Lennon (57), Ciaran Sugrue for Ruane (59), Shane Cunnane for Kilroy (63), Ben O’Carroll for McKeon (66).

Meath: Harry Hogan (0-2, frees); Robin Clarke, Ronan Ryan, Eoin Harkin (0-1); Jason Scully, Donal Keogan, Gavin McGowan; Padraic Harnan, Ethan Devine; Shane McEntee, Thomas O’Reilly (0-1, free), Mathew Costello (1-0); Saran O’Fionnagain, Jordan Morris (0-5, 3 frees), Joey Wallace.

Subs: Eamon Wallace (0-2) for O Fionnagain (29), Niall Kane for Scully (49), James Conlon for J Wallace (52), James McEntee for McGowan (59), Cillian O’Sullivan for Devine (61).

Referee: Jerome Henry (Mayo).

Ultan Harney moves possession forward during last Sunday’s NFL Division Two match between Roscommon and Meath at Pairc Tailteann in Navan. Pic: Mick McCormack

Action from the NFL Division 2 match between Roscommon and Meath at Pairc Tailteann in Navan. Pic: Mick McCormack

Stat Attack Wides: Roscommon 7 (5, first half ); Meath 9 (1, first half ) Red cards: Roscommon 0; Meath: 2* (James McEntee, 67, and manager Andy McEntee*) Black cards: Roscommon 1 (Conor Cox, 55); Meath 1 (Robin Clarke, 35) Yellow cards: Roscommon 4 (Fergal Lennon, Brian Stack, Eddie Nolan, Ciaran Sugrue); Meath 4 (Ronan Ryan, Eoin Harkin, Jordan Morris, Eamon Wallace) Man of the Match: Eddie Nolan (Roscommon) Attendance: Approx. 4,500

Roscommon manager Anthony Cunningham pictured during last Sunday’s NFL Division Two match between Roscommon and Meath at Pairc Tailteann in Navan. Pic: Mick McCormack

Action from the NFL Division 2 match between Roscommon and Meath at Pairc Tailteann in Navan. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Brendan Mulry gets his shot away under pressure during the National Hurling League Division 3A opener between Roscommon and Tyrone at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Tyrone’s Lorcan Devlin dives in to block Eoin Fitzgerald’s effort during the National Hurling League Division 3A opener between Roscommon and Tyrone at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

O’Halloran: ‘More opportunities for players this Sunday’ HURLERS DRAW SOME COMFORT FROM COMPETITIVE OPENING Allianz NHL Division 3A Roscommon 0-20 Tyrone 1-17 < SEAMUS DUKE

Seizing the moment: Padraig Kelly’s late point rescued a draw for Roscommon in their National Hurling League Division 3A opener against Tyrone at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

New Roscommon senior hurling manager, Francis O’Halloran, praised the fighting spirit of his players after last Sunday’s hard-fought draw against Tyrone at Dr. Hyde Park as he prepares to give new players an opportunity this weekend against Louth.

“It was a real game of two halves and at least we didn’t lose it. In the past, if Roscommon went down by a point or two late on they would have lost the match, but the lads showed great character to battle back for the draw. Look, it’s a match we wanted to win so we are disappointed, but we got something out of it and that’s the main thing,” he told People Sport this week.

Padraig Kelly’s late point in injurytime ensured that Roscommon salvaged an opening day draw after the visitors staged a second-half comeback.

Roscommon, with Cathal Dolan deadly accurate from frees and play, led at half-time by 0-14 to 0-5 having played with the aid of the elements.

But Tyrone dominated after the break and CJ McGourty’s goal three minutes into the second half began their revival.

Tyrone sharpshooter Damien Casey,

who scored 0-12 on the day, pointed deep into injury-time to give his side the lead, but Padraig Kelly saved Roscommon with a fine point from distance to level the scores at the final whistle.

O’Halloran says his charges have been working hard this week and will be ready for the challenge of Louth on Sunday.

“We will do our video analysis and we will be ready for the game against Louth on Sunday. This is a very competitive division and we saw last Sunday where Louth were unlucky not to beat Armagh, so there will not be a puck of a ball between the teams,” he said.

“We had a number of players that played well on Sunday last and some more who didn’t go that well, so we will be looking at a few more lads on Sunday next. It’s all about putting a good panel together for later in the year. Having said that, the game against Louth is one we want to win,” he concluded.

Roscommon: Noel Fallon; Martin Comerford, Peter Kellehan, Ronan Kilcline; Hugh Rooney, Conor Cosgrave, Conor Coyle; Padraig Kelly (0-1), Eoghan Costello (0-1); Mickey Joe Egan (0-3), Daniel Glynn (0-1), Cathal Dolan (0-10, 6 frees); Brendan Mulry (0-1), Naos Connaughton, Eoin Fitzgerald (0-3). Subs: Liam Óg Murray for Connaughton (52), Adam Donnelly for Mulry (66), Mickey Lohan for Egan (70).