11 October 24 - Roscommon People by RossiePeople

Happy Elphin supporters Grace Finnerty, Eva Biesty and Lauren Shanagher, pictured at the Roscommon IFC semi-ﬁnal against Éire Óg. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

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Open Disclosure

The Patient Safety (Notifiable Incidents and Open Disclosure) Act 2023 came into effect on 26 September 2024. This Act, introduces, for the first time in Irish law, mandatory open disclosure by health services providers of certain notifiable incidents which occurred during the provision of a health service.

Open disclosure is defined as an open, honest, compassionate and timely approach to communicating with patients and, where appropriate their relevant person, following patient safety incidents. The Act introduces a legal requirement to disclose a list of specific incidents called notifiable incidents.

Full particulars of the notiﬁable incidents are detailed within the Act. A very brief summary of the incidents are:

• Surgery performed on the wrong patient resulting in unintended and unanticipated death.

• Surgery performed on the wrong site resulting in unintended and unanticipated death.

• Wrong surgical procedure performed on a patient resulting in an unintended and unanticipated death.

• Unintended retention of a foreign object in a patient after surgery resulting in an unanticipated death.

• Any unintended and unanticipated death occurring in an otherwise healthy patient undergoing elective surgery where the death is directly related to a surgical operation or anaesthesia.

• Any unintended and unanticipated death that is directly related to any medical treatment and the death did not arise from the illness of the patient or an underlying condition of the patient.

• Patient death due to transfusion of ABO incompatible blood or blood components.

• Patient death associated with a medication error.

• An unanticipated death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of the end of the pregnancy related to, or aggravated by, the management of the pregnancy.

• An unanticipated stillborn child or perinatal death

• An unintended death where the cause is believed to be the suicide of a patient while being cared for in a health service setting

• A baby who—

(a) is referred for, therapeutic hypothermia, or (b) has been considered for, but did not undergo therapeutic hypothermia as, in the clinical judgment of the health practitioner, such therapy was contraindicated due to the severity of the presenting condition.

With PAUL HEALY

I’m telling you… they aren’t phobias! That’s just you being… grumpy!

Huh! That’s just you being… not nice!

Huh!

Let me tell you something, my friend… according to my sources, up to 12% of the world’s population have phobias!

YOUR SOURCES! What are your sources?

Eh…

Go on, say it…

Eh… Google!

I thought so! Now that’s one thing I have a bit of a phobia about… Google! Anyways, the Late Late Country Music Special is not a legitimate phobia!

Oh yes it is!

Well, the Kris Kristofferson tribute was nice…

Fair enough, and he was a great artist, but only one problem… What?

Daniel O’Donnell was one of the performers, and I have a phobia about him!

(They pause, and agree to meet for a Sunday evening pint to compare their lists of phobias)

Newspaper deadlines.

Huh?

It’s one of my phobias…

So you admit you have some phobias too?

Well yes, but I think when you say ‘phobia’ you probably mean ‘Stuff that annoys me’ rather than ‘Things I fear’… Okay, let’s go with ‘Stuff that annoys us’… Well, smarmy radio DJs rambling on about how amazing their weekend was…

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

Yeah… and Premier League managers who never see the penalty their team conceded, or the incident that led to one of their players being red-carded…

The 2 Johnnies, the two lads that became Jedward, the Three Amigos… What about the Four Tops?

Oh I liked them. Here’s another one…

WATCHING People

A phobia about the Late Late Country Music Special? That’s a

bit much!

companies that say your call is very important to them, before subjecting you to 20 minutes of Frank Sinatra, only interrupted by a recording of someone reassuring you that your call is very important to them… New books by Johnny Sexton…

People who talk at the back of the church…

People who don’t remove their pets’ poo while out walking…

(They pause to watch ﬁve minutes of the new series of Big Brother, before adding ‘Big Brother’ to their list)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT

The boyos meet for a midweek pint, and decide to wrap up on their shortlist of phobias/ stuff that annoys them…

Weeds…

‘Conor McGregor for President’ tweets… People who pick up the last loaf of bread in the shop when all you want in the shop is a loaf of bread!

Impatient drivers…

When you drop the toast and it hits the ﬂoor buttered-side down…

Enough of this silliness. Back to those newspaper deadlines… it’s time to email our column to the Editor!

Are you sure?

Yes, ‘cos it’s Wednesday night, and the barman just said LAST ORDERS… Both: Now THAT’S a sentence we have a phobia about!

It’s

been a GOOD week for…

Fifteen sports clubs and schools in County Roscommon, this after it was conﬁrmed that they will receive €700,000 in CLÁR funding between them (see details in this issue)

Roscommon Gaels and Padraig Pearses, who qualified for the forthcoming Roscommon Senior Football final (with Elphin and Strokestown making it through to the Intermediate final)

It’s been a BAD week for…

Leitrim GAA, with Mickey Graham, high proﬁle new manager of their senior team stepping down after just two months, citing circumstances beyond his control

PIC OF THE WEEK: Strokestown supporters Emily Dixon and Katie O’Connor were checking out their Roscommon IFC nal opponents by attending the second seminal, between Éire Óg and Elphin! Strokestown and Elphin will meet in a ‘derby nal’. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon Macra raise

Following the South Roscommon Macra charity tractor run on September 1st in Ballydangan, organisers are thrilled to announce that the event was a great success, with a total of €914.50 being raised for Nicole Brennan Murphy and Ollie Johnson, who are both currently battling Motor Neuron Disease. A cheque presentation took place recently, which saw Elaine Brady, Kelsey Daly, Rachel Hastings and John Fallon from South Roscommon Macra proudly present the cheque to Joe Murphy (husband of Nicole Brennan Murphy from Strokestown), while the cheque for Ollie Johnson was presented to his father Tony and brother Chris from Taughmaconnell. The organisers wish to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who contributed to this important cause.

Elaine Brady, Kelsey Daly, Rachel Hastings and John Fallon from South Roscommon Macra pictured presenting a cheque to Joe Murphy as fundraising support for Nicole Brennan Murphy (Strokestown).

Elaine Brady, Kelsey Daly, Rachel Hastings and John Fallon from South Roscommon Macra pictured presenting a cheque (fundraising support) for Ollie Johnson (Taughmaconnell), to Ollie’s father Tony and brother Chris.

€700k for Roscommon under 2024 CLÁR Programme

Fianna Fáil’s Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the recent announcement of €700,000 in funding for ﬁfteen sports clubs and schools in County Roscommon.

“This funding will give community centres and local halls a new lease of life”, he commented.

“It is providing for playgrounds, athletics facilities, pitches, carparking and general amenity improvements.

“There is also signiﬁcant funding to develop

our green spaces, with funding also going to a number of our Tidy Towns groups”, he noted.

“The funding will improve the lives of our communities living in rural Ireland. The funding is part of an allocation of €11.4 million nationwide announced this week and represents one of the largest allocations under the CLÁR Programme to date.

“Among the recipients are Reeside Athletics,

Roscommon Enterprise Centre, Moore United, St Aidan’s GAA, Ballintubber Development Association, Gorthaganny Cummunity Centre (Marian Hall), Clann na nGael GAA, Elphin Community Centre, Strokestown Community Centre, Tulsk GAA, Boyle Town Teams, Keadue Sportsﬁeld Committee, St Mary’s Hall, Kilbegnet and Glinsk, St Ronan’s Hall, and Ballyleague National School,” concluded Senator Murphy.

Indoor Market takes place this Sunday, 13th of October from 11.30 am to 3 pm in Lisnamult Community Centre, Lisnamult, Roscommon (F42 NN72).

Pictured is the new Leisure Centre Manager at Roscommon’s Abbey Health and Fitness, Marc O’Kane.

Pictured at the most recent meeting of Roscommon Races were Seamus, Emer and Lauranne Kelly. Photo: Colin Gillen

Pictured at the most recent meeting of Roscommon Races were Sandra Uminska and Danielle Giblin (Ballaghaderreen).

Photo: Colin Gillen

Pictured at the Roscommon Races were Derai, Kayleigh Rae and Isabel Kenny. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

SATURDAY

John Bishop at 3Arena

It really isn’t possible to dislike John Bishop, is it? Not even when he tells about 11,000 people that he owns a house in Majorca, adding – with perfect timing – “You paid for it!”

Tonight, we were amongst the 11,000 or so who packed into the 3Arena to see the Liverpool-born comedian, currently touring with his new stand-up show ‘Back at It’.

About the only thing that wasn’t at least a bit funny was the price of a pint, or should I say less than a pint… €8 for a Heineken in a plastic container. No surprise there, in fairness.

Very few comedians actually tell jokes these days – it’s almost all observational, train of thought-type content – but Bishop was particularly light on structured material. He really does (mainly) just chat about his life to the audience.

The good news is he’s (mostly) very funny when doing so, and he’s hugely likeable, a man of great charm. It helps that his love of Ireland is clearly very genuine.

A few weak meanderings aside, Bishop had the huge audience in the palm of his hands as he chatted about touring Ireland on a motorbike, choosing ‘The Irish potato famine’ as his specialised subject on Mastermind, recounted his thus far unsuccessful attempts to get an Irish passport, namechecked Belmullet, and spoke movingly of his late mother. It was a very enjoyable night in the company of a lovely man who is a born entertainer.

SUNDAY

Train talk

On the train to Dublin yesterday, we met a lovely Mayo lady who was happy to talk until long after the cows came home. But on the train back to Roscommon today, the two ladies seated opposite us speak only to one another, and in very hushed tones, like off-duty snooker commentators. From an eavesdropping perspective, it’s not ideal. In contrast, a young woman across from us is very loud as she phones a friend and tries to hatch an

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was…

elaborate plan to explain her absence from work to her boss. In Athlone, a big man gets on and begins booming into his phone about political manoeuvring.

Needless to say there is no coffee/tea trolley, some well-paid Irish Rail number-crunchers presumably having seen unsatisfactory catering income projections coming down the line… before bravely sacriﬁcing public service at the altar of their civic mindedness.

MONDAY

Mary O’Rourke

I’m pleased to say I received the famous Mary O’Rourke ‘withering look’ on one occasion. We were both guests on a radio show, and whatever observation I made on a political issue of the day clearly met with her disapproval. And so I was quickly the recipient of a look of some admonishment!

Her passing last week (aged 87) has been widely mourned. She was a giant

of Irish politics, a trailblazer for women in our society, a distinguished national public ﬁgure for over 40 years, and a proud champion of Athlone.

After her political career ended, her autobiography (‘Just Mary’) revealed a talent for writing. Her touching reﬂections on the love of her life, her late husband, Enda, were a feature of her many media interactions (and writings).

Born where the Hodson Bay Hotel stands today, Mary O’Rourke was a member of a very distinguished political family, which included her late brother, Brian Lenihan, who served as a TD in Roscommon before rising through the Fianna Fáil ranks and becoming one of the most popular public ﬁgures in the country.

President Higgins was amongst those attending her funeral today, where she received a great send-off (a good friend of our family, Fr Pat Murphy, was Chief Celebrant). Her sons Feargal and Aengus, and Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin, all delivered ﬁtting tributes to a remarkable woman, mixing

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

one could have a restless night and be awoken by the peculiar phenomenon that is Telly Bingo.

I’m sure my experience isn’t an uncommon one! But I feel some sympathy for insomniacs/light sleepers/shift workers, given some of the viewing options (streaming services notwithstanding) that middle-of-the-night/ early morning TV viewers are left with.

Those snoozing in the living room chair in front of a screen – or waking in front of one in the middle of the night while in bed – can look forward to Dr Phil, Judge Judy, Teleshopping, or any number of repeats.

I suppose one could always record The 2 Johnnies…

the political and the personal… capturing the essence of a mother, grandmother, friend and politician. Mary O’Rourke leaves an impressive legacy, both publicly and privately. To quote her old boss Charlie Haughey, she did the State some service. May she rest in peace.

TUESDAY

Night Owls…

Falling asleep late, with the TV still on in your bedroom, is something that will occasionally happen during your life… in our case, it sometimes means waking up to Sky News, or the consistently sombre EuroNews.

This morning, after a long and busy Monday in the ofﬁce (and with the TV on overnight) I was awoken by a solemn voiceover providing analysis over a graphic titled ‘Pakistan’s losing run’. I presume it was cricket; it certainly got me out of bed bright and early.

I suppose it could have been worse;

The late John Naughten

When I happened to meet Cllr John Naughten on Wednesday of last week, we exchanged a brief, friendly greeting.

Like everyone else, I was stunned to hear of John’s unexpected death just two days later.

He was a particularly mildmannered, courteous and pleasant gentleman. I’ve known John for over 20 years and it was always a pleasure to meet with this most unassuming of people.

John’s untimely passing has stunned the entire community. Our hearts go out to his wife and children, his mother, siblings and extended family members.

The huge support John consistently attracted in local elections is proof of his popularity, of his innate decency and likeability, qualities that attracted the affection and trust of the public. It also reﬂects his work ethic.

First and foremost, he was deeply respected as a family man, farmer, neighbour and friend, a member of a community he served with understated commitment and distinction.

We will all miss John. My thoughts are with his grieving family. May he rest in peace.

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WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY.

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY

At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

Roscommon’s

The curtain comes down on the racing year at Roscommon with the final meeting of the year taking place next Monday. It is an all-flat fixture with the first race due off at 2.05 pm. With the flat season drawing to a close, it is hoped there will be maximum fields next Monday and that the weather will be fine for this season finale.

The ﬂat jockeys championship has yet to be decided with Colin Keane, who has won the title for the last four years, is bidding for his ﬁfth championship.

Roscommon Racecourse Committee hopes to welcome a large crowd next week and expresses thanks to sponsors including Class Grass and OnCourse Vets. Best turned out prizes are sponsored on this oc-

casion by Keen Print, Circular Road, Roscommon.

There was a great crowd at the most recent meeting in Roscommon when San Salvador looked a useful novice chaser, with a smooth success in the Grade 3 Ballymore Irish EBF Kilbegnet Novice Chase.

On behalf of all at Roscommon Racecourse, Michael Finneran, Racecourse Manager, has thanked all patrons who took the time to come racing to Lenabane in 2024.

He added: “We would also like to say a big thank you to every single owner, trainer and groom who brought their horses to Roscommon and a huge thanks to all our staff here at the racecourse.

“The ground staff on the track have done Trojan work all year

and with the help of Lorcan Wyer and all the IHRB staff, all our ﬁxtures in 2024 have gone off without a hitch.

“Our loyal sponsors have been tremendous and if your company would like to talk to us about coming on board for 2025, we would love to talk with you.

“If you are coming here next week, you will be guaranteed a warm welcome and if you cannot make our last hurrah, we will see you all back here in 2025”.

You can keep up to date with all news relating to Roscommon Races on their social media channels (their social platforms are updated regularly so please follow on Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram. #getintouch).

Information, which includes

2203288. Come for the racing: stay for the craic.

DERELICT SITES ACT, 1990

NOTICE OF MAKING OF VESTING ORDER

under Section 17(3) of the

Derelict Sites Act, 1990

TAKE NOTICE that Roscommon County Council (herein referred to as the “Local Authority”) has on the 2nd October 2024 , made a Vesting Order where the land speci ed in the Schedule hereto will on the 1st November 2024, vest in the Local Authority in Fee Simple free from encumbrances and all estates, rights, titles and interests of whatsoever kind, pursuant to Section 17 of the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that a copy of the said Vesting Order and the map therein referred to, may now be inspected at the Housing Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98 during the hours of 9.30am to 1.00pm,2.00pm to 3.30pm - Monday to Friday.

SCHEDULE

ALL THAT AND THOSE the property known as The Stagger Inn, Main Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45 V8D2 being all of the property comprised in Folio RN21816 and comprising an area of approximately 0.1605 ha or thereabouts located in the Townland of Castlereagh, and in the District Electoral Division (DED) Roscommon and delineated in RED on attached map

Drawing No. VO-DS-22-44

Any person, who immediately before the making of the above Order has any estate or interest in or right in respect of land acquired, may apply to the Senior Executive O cer, Housing Section, Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon F42 VR98 no later than twelve months after the making of the Order for compensation in respect of the estate, interest or rights.

Signed: Fiona Ni Chuinn A/ Director of Services Roscommon

County Council

Date: 2nd October 2024

DERELICT SITES ACT, 1990

NOTICE OF MAKING OF VESTING ORDER

Section 17(3) of the

Derelict Sites Act, 1990

TAKE NOTICE that Roscommon County Council (herein referred to as the “Local Authority”) has on the 2nd October 2024 , made a Vesting Order where the land speci ed in the Schedule hereto will on the 1st November 2024 vest in the Local Authority in Fee Simple free from encumbrances and all estates, rights, titles and interests of whatsoever kind, pursuant to Section 17 of the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

SCHEDULE

DERELICT SITES ACT, 1990 NOTICE OF MAKING OF VESTING ORDER under Section 17(3) of the Derelict Sites Act, 1990

TAKE NOTICE that Roscommon County Council (herein referred to as the “Local Authority”) has on the 2nd October 2024 , made a Vesting Order where the land speci ed in the Schedule hereto will on the 1st November 2024 vest in the Local Authority in Fee Simple free from encumbrances and all estates, rights, titles and interests of whatsoever kind, pursuant to Section 17 of the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

SCHEDULE

ALL THAT AND THOSE the property known as 1 Mocmoyne Heights, Boyle, Co. Roscommon F52 K263 and comprising an area of approximately 0.0499ha or thereabouts located in the Townland of Mocmoyne and in the District Electoral Division (DED) Boyle and delineated in RED on attached map Drawing No. VO-DS-13-22

Signed: Fiona Ni Chuinn A/ Director of Services

Roscommon County Council

Date: 2nd October 2024

ALL THAT AND THOSE the property known as 2 Mocmoyne Heights, Boyle, Co. Roscommon F52H309 and comprising an area of approximately 0.0506 ha or thereabouts located in the Townland of Mocmoyne and in the District Electoral Division (DED) Boyle and delineated in RED on attached map Drawing No. VO-DS-14-22

Signed: Fiona Ni Chuinn A/ Director of Services

Roscommon County Council

Date: 2nd October 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE

HOUSING (MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS) ACT, 2014, SECTION 15(1)

To: Martin & Winnie Corcoran

Of: 10 Pairc Naomh Phadraig, Turpan Beg, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon.

Roscommon County Council (‘the Council’) of Housing Department , Aras an Chontae, Roscommon has reason to believe that the dwelling situate at 10 Pairc Naomh Phadraig, Turpan Beg, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon (‘the dwelling’) which was let to you under section 58 of the Housing Act 1966 as amended, by Tenancy Agreement dated 12th Day of December 2014 is unoccupied and that your household does not intend to occupy the said dwelling as its normal place of residence.

YOU ARE REQUIRED to inform the Council in writing within 4 weeks of the date of service of this Notice if your household intends to occupy the dwelling as its normal place of residence.

YOU ARE ADVISED that if at the end of the 4 week period from the date of service of this Notice you do not inform the Council in writing of your household’s intention to occupy the dwelling as your normal place of residence and if it appears to the Council at the end of that 4 week period that the dwelling is unoccupied and that your household does not intend to occupy it as its normal place of residence, the Council will serve a further notice on you bringing the tenancy agreement in respect of the dwelling to an end with immediate e ect.

Dated: 2nd October 2024

Housing Section, Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42VR98. Phone: (0906637230)

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason speci ed.

Road to be closed: L6033 in the townland of Toberpatrick.

Period of Closure: 21st October to 6th December 2024

Alternative Routes: Via L1414 and L1405

Reason for Closures: To facilitate Toberpatrick bridge repair.

Mary Grier Acting Director of Services, Roads & Transportation

Fun for all the family at Fair of Fuerty this Sunday

The annual Fair of Fuerty takes place this Sunday, October 13th, and promises to be a fantastic day for young and old. The Fair will be held in the ﬁeld at Dalton’s pub.

All proceeds from this year’s Fair of Fuerty are being donated to Mayo/Roscommon Hospice.

The famous horse and livestock fair is a ﬁrm favourite with locals and indeed with people from near and far. This annual event is a very family-friendly gathering which celebrates a great tradition while providing entertainment for all generations.

This year’s Fuerty Fair will feature top class livestock as well as great entertainment and fun events.

A major attraction will be the presence of a variety of the famed Roscommon sheep.

Children will be catered for with a big emphasis on ensuring there’s a great family atmosphere. The popular Rodeo Bull will be present, as will many more attractions. The organisers are planning lots of fun activities including welly-throwing, face-painting, etc.

There will be a variety of stalls with lots of products and goods showcased.

Jiving competitions which are taking place on the day are sure to be very popular once again.

The Queen of the Fair is set to be held again this year and no doubt this event will be a big attraction.

The 2024 Fuerty Fair will commence at around 8 am and continue all day and into the evening. More details by contacting Tom on 086 8457108.

Irish Pallet Systems Ltd. Lanesborough, Co Roscommon Tenders are invited for a contractor to supply a 2-way pallet nailing line for oversized pallets to be delivered to our site at Lanesborough

Please contact orla@ots.ie for a full suite of tender documents with Instructions to Quote, these are MANDATORY for quoting.

Quote submission deadline is 24/10/2024 @ 4pm by email only to orla@ots.ie

Quotes after this date and time will NOT be accepted.

Come along to Fuerty on this Sunday, October 13th where you will see a variety of rams, ewes and Roscommon lambs.

Roscommon sheep are, after all, one of the few native breeds of sheep in Ireland. The reality is that Roscommon sheep are now a rare and endangered breed that needs to be preserved and protected.

So you too can play your part in restoring the old Irish native sheep breed that almost faced extinction!

FLASHBACK: This photograph from November 1989, published in the Roscommon Champion, features Paul Healy (now Roscommon People, a reporter with the Champion at the time) chatting to some locals in D’Alton’s Bar about the revival of the fair that year. Left to right: Johnny Kenny, Matt Geraghty, Paul Healy, Willie Kelly and Mike Kilroy. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

FLASHBACK: Pictured in D’Alton’s Bar in Fuerty in November 1989 on the occasion of the revival of the fair that year were Richard Kenny, Oscar Neilan, Padraig Dolan, Don D’Alton, John Joe Duke, Bob Hunt and Martin Casey. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Late Late’s Country Special fails to hit the right notes

Our columnist (and country music fan) Frank was disappointed with this year’s annual Late Late Country Special; he reports on Sligo’s busy hospitality sector… and has an update on Creggs Rugby Club’s 50th anniversary plans

One of the things you know about me by now is that I am a fan of country music, and I cannot deny that as I watched all the advertisements for Friday night’s Late Late Country Music Special, I got more and more excited and couldn’t wait for the night to come.

Funny enough, when it actually came, I was, as they say, otherwise engaged – and didn’t get to see the show at all. However, thanks to the great modern technique of recording stuff, I recorded it all and on Sunday afternoon (today, as I write) I parked myself in front of the telly and with bated breath waited to see the magic that Patrick Kielty had been promising all week.

Another thing that you know about me is that I have been a Manchester

United supporter since 1963, and even though they are now in the middle of a very long slump, I still maintain a strong interest in their results and would seldom miss a chance to watch them live on the box. And yet on Sunday, even though they were playing against Aston Villa, and it was being shown on Sky Sports, I didn’t bother with it, but instead opted to catch up with the country music show. To tell the truth, it was extremely disappointing.

Now I know that wee Daniel is undoubtedly the biggest Irish country music star, and he is a nice fellow and good fun, but surely the time has come where some other stars could be wheeled out.

Host Kielty told us at the start that we were going to meet three of the biggest Irish female stars of all time, i.e. Susan McCann, Philomena Begley and Margo. Knowing that Philomena, in particular, is a great character, I was really looking forward to hearing what she had to say. Sadly, while it was nice to see Susan McCann getting inducted into the Irish country music Hall of Fame, an award richly deserved after 50 years on the road, there was literally no interview at all with Philomena, and the three women got to sing one verse of ‘Sonny’s Dream’ (Sonny don’t go away) while sitting down on a couch with not a

single microphone between them.

Derek Ryan, with the The Kilfenora Céilí Band, Jimmy and Claudia Buckley, got to perform complete songs, but most of the featured artists like Cliodhna Hagan, Michael English, Mikeen Denver and Lisa McHugh (great to see her back) only got to sing bits of songs. I wonder how happy they would have been at the fact Shona McGarty, an actress in Eastenders, got to sing the full version of ‘Me and Bobby McGee’ with the aforementioned wee Daniel?

Surely it would have been much more useful if some young up and coming Irish singer – like Emma Donohue or Sabrina Fallon – got the chance to share the stage with the Donegal superstar. The exposure would have to be of more beneﬁt to someone like them, rather than to a well established soap actress. However, even though I wasn’t overly impressed, it seems that Mayo man Garron Noone was the big winner on the night, and he is getting great reaction all over the country after his appearance. Anyway, according to Galway Beo, which I saw just now, I wasn’t the only one who was disappointed with the show, as, according to them the viewers left the programme in droves. I wonder why the likes of Nathan Carter, Foster and Allen or Robert Mizzell weren’t there? I suppose everyone can’t make this type of show, but next year I hope it’s a bit better. Over to you, Patrick.

Suite success for Sligo hotels

It’s back to Saturday morning (as I write)… and as the rain poured down, Carol and myself hit for Sligo, where we were due to meet up with all of our immediate family for a night away in the Sligo Park Hotel. For some reason we seem to have adopted Sligo as our home away from home, because in the last three months or so this will have been our third visit to the north-western town. We had stayed in the Glasshouse and Raddison hotels previously –and were more than happy with each of them – but this was to be our ﬁrst stay in the Sligo Park. Everyone (in our party) arrived in dribs and drabs as they were coming from all over, but by the time we sat down for dinner in the evening, we had our full complement of 14 people (ten adults and four grandchildren).

Now everywhere you open up a paper or a magazine nowadays all we see is how the hospitality sector is in so much trouble, and down in Cork the closure after 73 years’ trading of Jackie Lennox’s famous chipper is making national headlines. Well, on our three visits to Sligo we have seen no sign of any type of slowdown.

Our respective stays in the Glasshouse and the Raddison were on midweek nights, and both hotels were fully booked, if

50 years of Creggs rugby

50 years ago a few young lads met for a few pints in Dowd’s, Glinsk, and over an hour or two (or maybe even three or four) the idea of a rugby club in Creggs was ﬂoated. This year sees that club’s 50th anniversary, and to mark the occasion a remarkable commemorative 566-page hardback book is being published. As I write this on Monday morning I am told the book will be launched in the new clubrooms on Saturday, 16th of November at 7.30 pm.

Now the rise and rise of Creggs Rugby Club has been well documented, and as I have mentioned many times, the facilities that it now has are second to none in the whole country. The many club teams are all going well, but most importantly the underage structures are in place to ensure that, long after the young lads who had those pints in Dowd’s in 1974 are gone, the club

will still stand and be in a good place to stride into the future and see out the next 50 years.

Nowadays there are 650 active club members, which is about eight times the population of the village, and some of us elder lemons who met for those few pints in Glinsk have to pinch ourselves when we see what the club has actually become.

The book itself has been over a year in planning and preparation, under the expert eyes of Pauline Scott, editor, and renowned Meath footballer, All-Ireland medal winner and journalist, Liam Hayes, and I am sure their efforts will result in a fantastic and memorable production. If you want to get your copy on the launch night, give Jimmy O’Connor (087/2460542) or Ray Richardson (086/8036553) a ring by October 15th or you will be disappointed and going home empty-handed.

relatively quiet on the social side. But on Saturday night, the Sligo Park was absolutely buzzing; there was an 80th birthday party, a 90th one, and an 18th all taking place in different private venues, while the public bar, where there was a one-man band playing music, was also choc-a-bloc.

Throw in the fact that the dining room was more or less completely booked out, as was the bar with its separate food menu, and the overriding feeling was that the hotel was ﬂat out.

Compared to some time ago, there is no doubt that prices have risen quite a bit, but nonetheless all of these Sligo hotels seem to be bucking the national trend, and appear to be thriving. After Covid doing away with a lot of public house entertainment, it was great to see the one-man band in action. By the time I was heading off to my early bed, the singers and dancers were in full ﬂow, and I am sure they were sorry that I didn’t get to show the Sligo punters my renowned dancing skills. Maybe next time.

Anyway, as we all bailed out on Sunday morning, we were in unanimous agreement that we all thoroughly enjoyed our Saturday night out. Some enjoyed it a bit more than others, but that’s for another time.

Over there in Atlanta, Georgia there is lots of footage doing the rounds of two robbers dropping through the ceiling of a check cashing store, after cutting through the roof with power tools, before making off with $150,000. The only thing that bothers me is, seeing that the shop was open, why didn’t they just walk in the door? Anyway, it was certainly more ‘exciting’ to see the lads fall in through the ceiling – as I don’t suppose we’d ever have heard about it if they just walked in and took the money. It’s a strange world!

next week, bye for now

Supporting Éire Óg in last weekend’s Roscommon IFC seminal were Gary, Sophie, Sarah and Sandra Raftery. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

‘White smoke’ soon from FF HQ on issue of second candidate

SENATOR

EUGENE MURPHY AWAITS

KEY DECISION

 EMMETT CORCORAN

The Fianna Fáil Selection Convention for the RoscommonGalway constituency, which was held on Thursday, October 3rd at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Town, has been at the centre of intense political debate, with a number of developments emerging since the vote.

Build-up

Initially, ﬁve candidates were nominated for the contest, but in the days leading up to the event, three withdrew: Councillors John Keogh and Paschal Fitzmaurice, and party activist Malachy Hand. This left a two-way contest between Senator Eugene Murphy (a former TD) from Strokestown, and Martin Daly, a Ballygarbased GP who is a long-time Fianna Fáil activist. Senator Murphy, who narrowly lost his seat in the 2020 General Election to Sinn Féin’s Claire Kerrane, had been a strong contender with signiﬁcant support across the constituency.

Results

On the night of the convention, Dr Martin Daly emerged victori-

ous, defeating Senator Murphy by just eight votes (106 to 98).

This slim margin reﬂected how close the race had been, with both candidates working hard to secure delegate support in the build-up.

On foot of the convention outcome, there were immediate calls from the ﬂoor from Cllr Sean Moylan, Malachy Hand and Bernie Kearney for Senator Murphy to be added to the ticket.

Since the convention, speculation that Fianna Fáil might opt for a two-candidate strategy has been growing, with the general consensus from pundits and delegates being that adding Senator Murphy to the ticket in the interest of geographic representation, particularly for voters in the north of the constituency makes the most sense.

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Senator Murphy said he consistently backed the idea of a two-candidate strategy. He congratulated Dr Daly on his win, while expressing his gratitude to the delegates who supported him from both the north and south of the constituency.

Following his selection at the convention, Dr Daly took to X.com (formerly Twitter) to say:

“Thank you to members of Fianna Fáil Roscommon-Galway CDC for participating in the selection convention… I am deeply humbled by decision of

the convention to select me to be their candidate in the next Gen-

Gender balance

Like all parties, Fianna Fáil is grappling with the national gender quota requirement. Party Leader Micheál Martin highlighted the challenge during a recent interview, noting the need for 40% female representation in constituencies nationwide.

According to a local political analyst and former county councillor, Ivan Connaughton, this could lead the party to opt for a female candidate alongside Dr Daly, potentially ruling out Murphy’s addition despite his strong local support base. It’s an issue that many Fianna Fáil delegates, particularly in the north

of the constituency, say should not have a bearing on the party’s decision.

Developments

As of October 8th, the Fianna Fáil Constituencies Committee was conﬁrmed as being due to meet this week to make a ﬁnal decision on whether to add a second candidate, potentially Senator Murphy or a female candidate, to the RoscommonGalway ticket.

Senator Murphy has publicly stated he is “extremely humbled” by the backing he has received from delegates, both in the north and south of the constituency, and hopes the party will choose to ensure representation for the north. He has remained vocal about his support for a twocandidate strategy, which he believes is key to winning back the seat for his party.

As the party deliberates on this issue, it remains to be seen whether or not Senator Murphy will be returned to the ballot; if Fianna Fáil will choose to balance the ticket by nominating a female candidate to meet national gender quota requirements, or if they will stick with the onecandidate strategy. With all options still on the table, the ﬁnal decision will shape the party’s approach to the upcoming General Election in this highly competitive constituency.

Dr Martin Daly

eral Election”.

Athleague Apostolic Workers fundraiser

Athleague Apostolic Workers are having a fundraiser in aid of the Missions on this Sunday, October 13th after the 10 am Mass. The event will take place in the Church grounds.

The 1st prize is a hamper sponsored by Martin and Bridie Conneally. This beautiful hamper is on display in Keane’s supermarket in Athleague.

Lines cost €2 each or €5 for 3. This second prize is €100 cash and there are a number of other prizes. All monies raised will go to Missionaries working in Third World countries who are dealing with war and famine. These monies go towards food and education programmes and building projects.

If there’s anyone who cannot purchase lines but who would like to contribute to Apostolic Workers, you may do so by contacting (090) 6623455. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Cill Tulach ICA coffee morning and cake sale

Cill Tulach ICA are hosting a co ee morning and cake sale in aid of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice on Sunday, 13th of October in Granlahan Community Centre from 11.30 am to 2.30 pm. Please support this worthy cause.

‘Run Walk n Roll’ in Boyle

The 2024 ‘Run Walk n Roll’ in aid of cancer research will take place in Boyle on this Sunday, the 13th of October, from 2 pm.

The pupils of Abbey Primary School will be calling into places in the area looking for sponsorship, as they are going to be participating in this year’s event. If possible, please join in and help support this important local event, which aims to raise money for a very worthy cause. Donations can also be made via the ‘Run Walk n Roll’ Facebook page.

A bridge too far Opposition grows on Rooskey project

Over 100 people attended a recent public meeting in Rooskey Community Centre, organised by the Rooskey Residents Association. The meeting was held in response to opposition to plans to have a permanent, traffic light-controlled, one-way traffic system put in place across the bridge in the village. Amongst those attending were Oireachtas members and local county councillors. Currently, a trial one-way system is in place at the landmark bridge, with traffic lights in operation as well as a path (protected by bollards) for pedestrians to cross.

During the recent meeting, it was emphasised by many speakers that this system was already causing chaos and long delays – during what is normally the area’s quietest time of the year.

Local business owners spoke about the loss of trade as a result of the changes, with one stating that there was at least a

The bridge at Rooskey.

20% drop in their business since the trafﬁc light system was put in place.

In a press statement issued to the Roscommon People, Cllr Tom Crosby said that he had told the meeting that the current proposal would be “a disaster for the local and wider community, local business, and for the future economic growth for the area”.

Cllr Crosby said that he has constantly had this issue on the agenda of Ro-

scommon County Council since being ﬁrst elected as the local representative on Roscommon County Council (almost 35 years ago).

Cllr Crosby said that in 2009, at his behest, €1.4m in funding was secured for a joint venture between Roscommon and Leitrim County Council, with consultants being engaged to draw up comprehensive plans to strengthen and widen the bridge. Accord-

ing to Cllr Crosby, the plan cost the people of Roscommon €124,000 and was put on public display for a 12week period, followed by a successful planning application. Cllr Crosby said the project was then put out to tender, and a commencement date was set.

However, Cllr Crosby told the meeting that just before the 2019 local elections, it was publicly announced that the funding had been withdrawn, a U-turn which he said had been made for “no apparent reason”.

Cllr Crosby is calling for a public campaign to be launched seeking that the authorities revert back to these plans and seeking commitments of funding for a “proper reconstruction and widening” of Rooskey bridge.

Public representatives from Leitrim and Roscommon in attendance at the meeting supported the idea of a cantilever bridge, in preference to the present proposal; this would involve a prefabricated pe-

destrian walkway being bolted onto the river side of the existing bridge. However, Cllr Crosby said this too would be only a short-term solution, as it wouldn’t involve any essential reconstruction works or widening of the bridge for instances such as when two large vehicles meet. He stated that the cantilever project would cost over €2m, and said it would be a wasted opportunity for a proper bridge to be put in place, in line with the plans and planning permission already secured.

Cllr Tom Crosby.

October 24th 6-9pm

• Registration from 5.45pm

• Sample classes will be scheduled from 6-9pm

• Principal’s address will take place at 7pm

• Parents can view the school from 8pm Student Empowerment

Now enrolling for September 2024

Now enrolling for September 2025

Roscommon CBS will host an open evening on October 25th. 6th class students from our feeder schools will have the opportunity to visit our classrooms and labs to see the school community in action. Sample classes will be scheduled from 6pm until 9pm. At 8pm Mr. Kevin Scollan will speak about the virtues of Roscommon CBS and how your son can achieve his full academic and personal potential.

Roscommon CBS will host an open evening on October 24th. 6th class students from our feeder schools will have the opportunity to visit our classrooms and labs to see the school community in action. Sample classes will be scheduled from 6pm until 9pm.

At 7pm Mr. Kevin Scollan will speak about the virtues of Roscommon CBS and how your child can achieve their full academic and personal potential.

Parents of 6th class students are invited to attend for 7pm.

Parents of 6th class students are invited to attend the Principal’s address at 7pm and can view the school afterwards.

For further information please email info@cbsroscommon.ie

WELLNESS & VITALITY FAIR on Sunday 13 October

SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT…

Lisa Egan (Cúlú Yoga and Wellness Centre) 11-11.45 am

‘Happy Habits: Invoking Positive Change for your next chapter’ Christine Collins (Worthy of Wellbeing)

Wellness & Vitality

Fair is on Sunday in Strokestown

The Roscommon branch of Network Ireland is excited to announce that the Wellness and Vitality Fair – featuring over 20 local businesses – will be held this Sunday, October 13th, 2024, from 10 30am to 3pm at the picturesque Strokestown Park House. Building on the success of last year’s highly popular event, this year promises even more opportunities for personal growth and wellness.

the talents and skills of local entrepreneurs, while providing a day dedicated to self-care and empowerment.

pm Caroline Burke Coaching ‘Being conﬁdent and Positive in our Everyday Living’ 12-12.45 pm

ELLNESS & FAIR VITALITY

Interactive workshops : meditations/yoga/reiki

Expert talks on health and wellness

Exhibition stands by over 20 female led businesses

Time 10:30AM - 3:00 PM

‘Autumnal Flow Yoga’ 13TH OCTOBER 2024 EARLY BIRD TICKETS €35 AVAILABLE UNTIL 11TH OCTOBER THEREAFTER €45

Attendees can choose from 12 dynamic workshops including yoga, reiki, nutrition, mindfulness, breathwork and guided relaxation, each led by experts in their ﬁelds. The event also features an expo of 23 female-led businesses from Co. Roscommon and surrounding counties, offering a diverse range of products and services from across multiple sectors.

Presented by the Roscommon branch of Network Ireland, a leading organisation for women in enterprise, this event highlights

The day is sponsored by PharmaNord, leading provider of nutritional supplements and Network Ireland supporter, AIB. Both will be present on the day. Early Bird tickets are just €35 and selling fast. Please note this event is suitable for those over 16 only. For tickets and further information please visit www. networkireland.ie/events/

Log onto : bit.ly/4gN6spH or SCAN QR Code

www.networkireland.ie/events/

Strokestown Park House Strokestown Roscommon F42 H282 BOOK TODAY Sponsored by

WELLNESS & VITALITY FAIR

Sauna

The late Mary O’Rourke was a giant of Irish politics

 EMMETT CORCORAN

The death of Mary O’Rourke on Thursday last (October 3rd) at the age of 87 has brought a deep sense of loss to the world of Irish politics and to her native Athlone, where she was both a political colossus and a beloved ﬁgure.

Fondly known as the ‘Mammy of the Dáil,’ O’Rourke’s four-decade-long political career stands as a testament to her resilience, intelligence, and dedication to public service.

A member of a political dynasty, O’Rourke was born in Athlone in 1937 to a family deeply entwined with Irish politics. Her father, PJ Lenihan, was a TD, and her brother, Brian Lenihan Sr., was also a major political ﬁgure, marking Mary’s early exposure to politics. Another brother, Paddy, served on Roscommon County Council.

After beginning her professional life as a secondary school teacher, she made the leap into politics in 1974 by joining the Athlone Urban District Council, followed by a stint on Westmeath County Council from 1979 to 1987. These local political roles laid the foundation for what would become a truly remarkable national career.

O’Rourke entered national politics when she was elected to Seanad Éireann in 1981. Her ﬁrst successful Dáil election came in November 1982, when she was elected as a TD for Longford-Westmeath under the Fianna Fáil banner. Over the following decades, O’Rourke would serve under three Taoisigh – Charles Haughey, Albert Reynolds, and Bertie Ahern – while occupying some of the most signiﬁcant ministerial positions in the country.

Her ministerial career began in 1987 when she was appointed Minister for Education, a role she held until 1991. O’Rourke would often reﬂect on her afﬁnity with education, describing it as the portfolio in which she felt she could make the most positive impact. This was followed by her appointment as Minister for Health from

1991 to 1992 and Minister for Public Enterprise from 1997 to 2002 under Bertie Ahern. O’Rourke’s tenure saw her involved in major projects, though not without controversy, such as the privatisation of Telecom Éireann, which drew public criticism. In 1992, O’Rourke ran unsuccessfully for the leadership of Fianna Fáil after the resignation of Charles Haughey. Despite the loss, she remained a pivotal ﬁgure in the party, serving as Deputy Leader of Fianna Fáil from 1994 to 2002. Known for her no-nonsense approach and sharp wit, O’Rourke helped modernise and stabilise Fianna Fáil during a turbulent time for the party. She was also a powerful advocate and tireless worker for her constituents.

Her career was not without setbacks. She lost her Dáil seat in 2002 but was appointed to the Seanad by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, where she served as Leader of the Seanad until 2007. Everresilient, O’Rourke reclaimed her Dáil seat in

the 2007 General Election, marking a triumphant return to frontline politics before stepping down after losing her seat in the 2011 election.

Mary O’Rourke’s approach to politics was shaped by her belief in merit over tokenism. In 2017, she voiced her opposition to gender quotas in Irish politics, stating her conviction that women should succeed by their abilities rather than being handed opportunities based on their gender.

Throughout her long career, O’Rourke was a trailblazer for women in what was then a maledominated sphere. She forged her path through intelligence, hard work, and a strong sense of public service. Her achievements were recognised far and wide, but it was her down-toearth nature and her dedication to the people of Athlone that won her the affection of so many.

In retirement, O’Rourke became a celebrated author, with her memoir Just Mary topping the charts in 2012. Her sharp political insights, wit, and warmth are fondly remembered by colleagues, constituents, and the country she served with distinction.

Mary O’Rourke’s passing marks the end of an era in Irish politics, but her legacy as a strong female leader, a loving mother, and an unﬂinching role model for future generations will endure.

The late Mary O’Rourke was laid to rest in Coosan Cemetery on Monday, October 7th, following Mass of the Resurrection in Our Lady Queen of Peace Church. Predeceased by her parents PJ and Ann Lenihan, her brothers Brian and Paddy, her sister Anne, and her much-beloved husband Enda, Mary O’Rourke will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her sons Feargal and Aengus, daughters-inlaw Maeve and Lisa, her cherished grandchildren Jennifer, Luke, Sarah, Sam, James, and Scott, her sister-in-law Etna O’Rourke, as well as her nieces, nephews, extended family, kind neighbours, and her large circle of friends. May she rest in peace.

Donal Conlon:

An Appreciation

Donal Conlon’s name was synonymous with picturesque Carnadoe near Kilmore, Co Roscommon. Just under Carnadoe Bridge, Donal operated his small boatyard for many years which endeared him to generations of the boating fraternity on the River Shannon. Boaters and the local community alike were saddened to hear of his passing on 28th of September last.

The online tributes to Donal collectively captured the essence of the uniquely decent human being that he was. Posters wrote of his obliging nature, his gentle spirit and his unassuming persona.

One contributor offered the following accolade: “The world has lost a man of the highest integrity and a true gentleman” while another commented “You showed all of us humanity and how to be humble”.

Sometimes in life you meet people who stand apart –such a man was Donal. In the midst of a busy materialistic world he stood apart embracing nature, taking time to chat, to help and to be. Humility, helpfulness and human decency were the fruits of his life – a wonderful legacy. Afloat.ie paid tribute to Donal with these lines – “Donal Conlon was himself a complete one-off, beyond classification. He thought and spoke with his hands, and where others would still be contemplating some difficult practical task, he would already have it done with no fuss or bother. We really will never see his like again”.

May the wind be ever at your back. Fair weather, and Godspeed. Rest in Peace Donal. -TH

Fr Patrick Muldoon ‘leaves great legacy’

in Seoul where he continued to serve for 65 years, up to his death on Friday, September 6th last, at the age of 90. His funeral was held on Monday, September 9th in Seoul, followed by burial in the Archdiocesan Cemetery in Yongin.

 PAUL HEALY

The death occurred in Korea recently of Donamon, Co Roscommon native Fr Patrick Muldoon. A greatly respected priest who served in various parishes in Korea for over 65 years, Fr Patrick also had the distinction of winning an All-Ireland Minor Football medal with Roscommon in 1951.

A native of Emlaghroyan, Donamon, Co Roscommon, Patrick Muldoon was born on March 5th, 1934. He was ordained to the priesthood on December 21st, 1958. The following October, he began working as a missionary in South Korea with the Columbans. He was based

In an online tribute, the Embassy of Ireland in Seoul said: ‘Today we laid to rest Father Pat Muldoon, one of the Columban Fathers who lived in Korea for 65 years. Fr Pat established three parishes, and was a hospital chaplain until his retirement in 2014. He had a warm smile, and a reputation for comforting those on the margins of society. A sad day, but we are very proud of his legacy. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílís’.

As to his football exploits, the Donamon native played club football in his native parish and went on to represent his county in their historic 1951 All-Ireland Minor Football Championship campaign.

Aged just 16 at the time, he played in goals for Roscom-

mon in that 1951 All-Ireland ﬁnal, collecting a winner’s medal as Roscommon defeated Armagh by 2-7 to 1-5. He was one of ﬁve of that team who went on to join the priesthood. The others were Eddie O’Connor, Eamon Duignan, Denis Hanlon and Dominick Gillooly.

Fr Pat was the last surviving member of that unique group of ﬁve footballing priests. Fr Gillooly, whose ministry

was mostly spent in Sligo, died in July of this year.

Barry Molloy, who was captain of the Roscommon team in that 1951 All-Ireland ﬁnal, has paid tribute to the memory of that group of ﬁve colleagues within the wider group.

“There are very few teams that could say they had ﬁve priests on it… it was a unique aspect of our team. Now they have all gone to their eternal

reward. May they all rest in peace”.

The late Father Patrick Muldoon was predeceased by his parents and by his three siblings: his brother Vincent (who resided in Donamon); his sister Kitty Muldoon-Prendergast (who lived in Dublin); and Sister Moire, a nun who taught in the Convent of Mercy in Roscommon, Boyle and Castlerea.

The late Donal Conlon. May he rest in peace.

Roscommon, 1951 All-Ireland Minor Football champions, with Patrick Muldoon in back row (sixth from left).

The late Father Patrick Muldoon, pictured in his youth.

The late Mary O’Rourke. May she rest in peace.

‘Our hearts are broken’

Taoiseach leads political tributes to the late Cllr John Naughten

Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader

Simon Harris led a wave of tributes from fellow politicians, following the sad passing of Cllr John Naughten on Friday. All who extended tributes expressed their heartfelt condolences to the Naughten family.

In the outpouring of condolences since his passing, the late John Naughten has been described as not just a widely-admired and accomplished politician, but as a dedicated family man, a good friend, and a kind-hearted person.

Taoiseach Simon Harris

Taoiseach Simon Harris issued a statement on behalf of the Fine Gael party, saying, “We are utterly bereft at the death of our friend and colleague, John Naughten.

“John was a decent, gentle, personable and hard-working man”, Taoiseach Harris commented.

“He had friends and close colleagues across the political spectrum. He was a caring father, brother, son and husband.

“John is much loved by all of us. I had been in close contact with John in recent months and weeks, and his diligence as a public representative was easy for all to see. It was always in his blood, but John’s political brain was quickthinking and shrewd.

“He won ﬁve elections and was our candidate in the next General Election. He was elected on the ﬁrst count with a big vote in June, a fact he was typically modest about.

“John was a passionate farmer and a tireless advocate for the people of Roscommon. We have lost a talented politician, but much more tragically, a close and wonderful family have lost a loved husband and father.

“To John’s wife Breda, to his daughters Emma, Leah and Orlaith, to his mother Mary, as well as his siblings Mar- ian, Áine, Denis, Seamus, Liam Óg, Joseph and Dermot – I am so sorry for your loss. “Our hearts are broken. May he rest in peace”, he concluded.

Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice said the late John Naughten commanded respect across the political divide and would be a huge loss, not only to political life, but to the life of County Roscommon.

“As a colleague on Roscommon County Council, John worked with everyone, irrespective of political persuasion, to serve the best interests of the people of Roscommon in the best possible way.

“John was a warm and engaging individual. But beneath that exterior was a man of sound political judgement, of deep integrity with a passion for getting things done.

“On behalf of all the elected members and staff on Roscommon County Council it was a pleasure to work with John – he will be deeply missed”.

Shane Tiernan, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council

In a statement released on behalf of Roscommon County Council, Chief Executive Shane Tiernan said that it was with profound shock and sadness that he learned of the untimely death of Cllr John Naughten.

Extending his sympathies to the Naughten family on behalf of the management and staff of Roscommon County Council, Mr Tiernan said: “John Naughten possessed all of the best qualities one would ﬁnd not only in a public representative but in human nature itself. He was pleasant, unassuming, approachable, fair and hard-working. He worked selﬂessly and always in the best interests of others.

“John Naughten was an outstanding public representative. He possessed a keen political mind and always looked at the best interests of the people he served. He worked tirelessly and honourably for his community. His loss will be acutely felt, not only by his family, but also by the public he served and his col-

The executive ofﬁcers board of Fine Gael Roscommon-Galway Constituency Executive wish to extend their deepest sympathies on the passing of Cllr John Naughten.

In a statement, the board said: “A dedicated member of Roscommon County Council for the last 21 years, John had previously served as Chairperson of the Northern and Western Regional Assembly and was recently selected to

leagues on Roscommon County Council”.

Cllr Liam Callaghan

Cllr Liam Callaghan described John Naughten as a “role model” in his capacity as a public representative and a great colleague and friend.

“The shock news of John’s sudden death has sent shockwaves throughout the country”, commented Cllr Callaghan. “John was not only a highly popular member of Roscommon County Council, but also with elected members throughout the country.

“John was a diligent, excellent hard-working councillor and was a poll-topper in the South Roscommon Area in elections. He was an excellent farmer and always loved to discuss the ups and downs of farm life.

“John was a true and loyal family man and cherished by his wife and daughters, his mother, brothers and sisters”, Cllr Callaghan continued.

Extending his deepest sympathy and condolences to the Naughten family, Cllr Callaghan said he hopes that the many happy mem-

run in the upcoming General Election.

“John was widely respected among his fellow councillors, council executive and staff in Roscommon County Council.

“He played a pivotal role as the Fine Gael representative in the negotiations for the new council in June.

“As a farmer in his native Drum, John was deeply rooted in his community.

The board offer their heartfelt condo-

ories of John will carry them through the days and months ahead.

Deputy Frank Feighan

Deputy Frank Feighan said that the late John Naughten was a decent and honourable person in every way – as a family man, a farmer, and as a public representative for over 20 years – highlighting that the people of the Athlone EA elected him on ﬁve consecutive occasions, most recently in June of this year, where he again topped the poll, increasing his personal vote.

“I found John to be a good colleague and friend –personable and hard-working, and ensuring his community’s needs were always on the agenda of any developments for the county.

“If history were to take a different course, I ﬁrmly believe John Naughten would have succeeded in following in the footsteps of his brother Denis and his late father Liam in being elected to Dáil Eireann, but alas that wasn’t to be. Now we must mourn this terrible loss”.

lences to his wife Breda, and their daughters Emma, Leah, and Orlaith, as well as to his mother Mary, his brothers Denis, Liam Óg, Joseph, Seamus, and Dermot, and sisters Marion and Áine, along with his extended family.

“John was a genuine, hard-working public representative, an astute politician, and above all, an honest man. He was a great community advocate, a team player, and always kind and

Deputy Claire Kerrane

Sinn Fein TD Claire Kerrane said she was at a “loss for words” following news of Cllr John Naughten’s passing.

“It’s hard to describe the sense of numbness that has come over our county”, Deputy Kerrane said. “John Naughten was a gentleman. Over the years, at every meeting, at every event, he never made the political personal”.

Extending her sympathies to the Naughten family, Deputy Kerrane said: “I am at a loss to ﬁnd the words; there simply are none”.

Senator Aisling Dolan

Senator Aisling Dolan said that she was deeply saddened to hear the heartbreaking news.

“The sudden loss is a profound shock, and it is a devastating tragedy for all the Naughten family”, she commented.

“My thoughts and prayers are with them at this time. May he rest in peace”.

Cllr Tom Crosby

Cllr Tom Crosby described the late John Naughten as an “exceptional” and “widely-admired” politician, and someone he shared a “deep friendship” with.

“I have known John since his ﬁrst election, when he ﬁlled the County Council position previously held by his brother Denis, who was then elected a TD for Roscommon/Longford”, Cllr Crosby explained. “John and I shared a close friendship over the past two decades. He was an exceptional and skilled politician, widely admired by all parties and independents, as well as the council’s executive and staff.

“John played a crucial role as the Fine Gael representative in the negotiations for the new council in June. It was our plan to fully support John Naughten’s election as Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council in the upcoming June election (for that position).

“John’s remarkable electoral success over the past ﬁve council

approachable. The ofﬁcer board had a collaborative and positive working relationship with John and were looking forward to working closely with him in the coming months. The board anticipated his election as a TD, where he would’ve represented the people of Roscommon Galway in Dáil Éireann with justice.

“First and foremost, John was a family man – a loving husband, fa-

elections and his recent nomination to represent Fine Gael in the upcoming General Election endorsed what an exceptional and dedicated public servant he was”.

Senator Eugene Murphy

Senator Eugene Murphy said:

“John was unique in the political world, he never had a political opponent. He never played the political card. He simply went about his business in a diligent manner and he was so helpful to all who approached him.

“He was very family-oriented. I had spent several hours with him and his daughter at Ballyforan Fair the previous Saturday. We had great banter and I am now heartbroken when I look at those pictures.

“I feel desperately sad for Breda, Emma, Leah, Orlaith, and Denis, John’s mother Mary, his sisters and brothers, and his extended family.

“My heart is broken for the family and I pray that in some way they ﬁnd strength at this very challenging time. May John’s gentle and kind soul rest in peace”, he concluded.

Dympna Daly-Finn

Dympna Daly-Finn, who was chosen to represent Fine Gael with the late Cllr Naughten in the forthcoming General Election, said, “I am shocked and saddened to hear such sad news about John’s passing. I am in total disbelief.

“John has been a county councillor since 2004, and he had been such a good friend to me, offering so much support and advice since the local elections”, she commented.

“It is a sad day for Fine Gael and John’s family. He was such a hard-working councillor who did so much for the people of Roscommon. It was an honour for me to be running alongside John in the General Election. We got on so well together, with the one aim of gaining the seat back for Fine Gael”.

ther, son, brother, uncle and nephew.

“The board are heartbroken for their loss. The Fine Gael family in Roscommon and Galway share in this profound sorrow.

“John’s legacy includes winning ﬁve elections in the Athlone local electoral area, most recently securing his seat on the ﬁrst count with a remarkable increase of 20% in his vote.

“May he rest in peace”.

The late Councillor John Naughten. May he rest in peace.

‘Decent, gentle man… and an outstanding public representative’

COMMUNITY MOURNS

SUDDEN PASSING OF CLLR JOHN NAUGHTEN

< EMMETT CORCORAN

The sudden passing of Fine Gael councillor John Naughten on Friday last has left County Roscommon and the broader political community in deep shock and mourning.

John Naughten died at his home at Ardkeenan, Drum, Athlone, Co Roscommon on Friday, October 4th. A sitting Fine Gael councillor for over 20 years, and a recently-selected Fine Gael candidate for the upcoming General Election in the RoscommonGalway constituency, he leaves behind a loving family and an enduring political legacy.

The late John Naughten is mourned by his wife Breda, daughters Emma, Leah, and Orlaith, his mother Mary, sisters Marion (Donnelly) and Áine, brothers Denis, Liam Óg, Joseph, Seamus, and Dermot, further relatives, neighbours, political colleagues and many friends.

John’s dedication to his community and his impressive record

of public service was in keeping with the Naughten family tradition, which began with his father, the late Liam Naughten. Liam was a respected TD and senator who served Roscommon with distinction until his untimely death in 1996. John’s brother, Independent TD Denis Naughten (formerly of Fine Gael), succeeded his late father in national politics.

John took up the mantle with unwavering commitment, ﬁrst being co-opted to Roscommon County Council in 2003 and going on to win a seat in every election since. His success in the recent 2024 local elections, where he topped the poll in the Athlone Local Electoral Area, was a testament to his enduring popularity and tireless work for the people of South Roscommon.

John’s sudden passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum, highlighting not only his dedication as a public servant but also his kindness, integrity, and love for his family.

Taoiseach Simon Harris led the tributes, reﬂecting on John’s hard work, gentle nature, and deep connection to his community: “We are utterly bereft at the death of our friend and colleague, John Naughten. He was a decent, gentle, personable,

and hard-working man... We have lost a talented politician, but much more tragically, a close and wonderful family has lost a loved husband and father”.

The Taoiseach went on to offer his deepest sympathies to John’s wife Breda, daughters Emma, Leah, and Orlaith, and the entire Naughten family.

The Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, echoed these sentiments, remarking on John’s deep integrity and passion for public service:

“John was a warm and engaging individual, but beneath that exterior was a man of sound political judgement... His loss will be acutely felt, not only by his family but also by the public he served and his colleagues on Roscommon County Council”.

Cllr Fitzmaurice also conﬁrmed that the tricolour and Roscommon ﬂag would be lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect.

The ofﬁces of Roscommon County Council in Roscommon and Monksland were closed today (Thursday) as a mark of respect to their late colleague and friend.

Frank Feighan, a local Fine Gael TD and long-time colleague paid tribute to John Naughten’s abilities as a public representative: “If history were to take a different course, I ﬁrmly believe

Grow Remote Castlerea celebrates first anniversary

The Grow Remote Castlerea chapter will host its 15th social meet-up for remote and hybrid workers on Saturday, 19th of October as a celebratory event, to commemorate the community group reaching its one-year anniversary!

The Castlerea-based remote workers meet-up group is part of the wider ‘Grow Remote’ network of volunteer groups, who run a range of social events for remote and hybrid workers in their local communities.

As remote and hybrid working becomes more mainstream, new job opportunities for people living in Co Roscommon have opened up. However, it has also become more challenging for people to connect with each other in person.

As such, events like the ones organised by Grow Remote Castlerea aim to bring people together for social connection and raise awareness of remote working opportunities available in the Roscommon area.

The upcoming Grow Remote Castlerea social meet-up will take place in Hell’s Kitchen Bar at 6 pm.

Speaking about the group’s ﬁrst anniversary milestone, Grow Remote Castlerea Local Leader, Kristin said, “It has been an incredible year!

“I started the meet-up series as I was, myself, a workbook case of a lonely and isolated remote worker”, Kristin explained. “I moved to the Castlerea area in spring 2021 and didn’t know anybody. In September 2023, I still didn’t know almost nobody and I thought I couldn’t be the only one needing some social interaction and new connections. “So with the help and support of Grow Remote, I decided to start a local chapter in Castlerea. Now I have hosted fourteen different events over a year. We have mostly had Friday night, after-work socials in different pubs in Castlerea, but also have done weekend walk and talk events in different paths around Roscommon county.

“I have met with amazing people during these events and I ﬁnd it has been a very welcoming and relaxed space to connect with other remote or hybrid workers in their area and have fun”, she concluded.

John Naughten would have succeeded in following in the footsteps of Denis and his late father Liam in being elected to Dáil Éireann. But alas, that wasn’t to be, and we now must mourn this terrible loss”.

Roscommon County Council said that a Book of Condolence for the late Cllr John Naughten has been opened in the Council’s Athlone area ofﬁce in Monksland. Members of the public will be able to extend their sympathies from 9.30 am to 5 pm daily in addition to the Book of Condolence which is available for the public to sign at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon.

John Naughten’s passing leaves a signiﬁcant void in Roscommon’s political landscape, but it is his family who will feel the loss most profoundly. A loyal and loving husband, father, son, and brother, John was deeply committed to his family. His contributions to Roscommon politics and the local community will be remembered for years to come. Above all, he will be mourned as a man of integrity, compassion, and dedication.

The late John Naughten was laid to rest in Drum Cemetery, following Mass of the Resurrection on Thursday (today) in St Brigid’s Church, Drum. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

If you are interested in attending the upcoming Grow Remote Castlerea one-year anniversary celebration and social meet-up, register now at Eventbrite: bit.ly/castlereameetup19102024. To join the Grow Remote Castlerea chapter, contact Kristin Vaik at castlereameetup@gmail. com.

RSPCA collection in Castlerea

The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSCPA) is asking the public to kindly support their upcoming fundraising street collection, which will take place on both Friday, October 11th, and Saturday, October 12th, in Castlerea. Volunteers will be collecting from 10 am to 4 pm at various locations throughout the town. To learn more about the RSPCA, please visit roscommonspca.ie or call 087 0505594.

birthday coffee morning raises €300 for Alzheimer Society

Kathleen’s

Elaine Patterson and her mother Kathleen Hunt (from Ballinlough, Co Roscommon) pictured presenting a cheque for €300 to Michelle Shiel (Nurse Manager, Castlerea Alzheimer Society of Ireland Day Care Centre) following a coffee morning held recently to celebrate Kathleen’s 93rd birthday.

The late Cllr. John Naughten, seated fifth from left, in Roscommon County Council Chamber.

Vita House: ‘We are here to serve our community’

< SIOBHAN MURRAY

Clinical Psychotherapist, MSc Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy, MIAHIP

Vita House has an ‘open door’ ethos that seeks to provide support to anyone struggling with the challenges of life and living.

Perhaps you are finding life difficult at the moment due to loss and bereavement; maybe you have physical health issues that are impacting your day-to-day life; trauma surrounding some lived experiences past or present; difficult or challenging family circumstances; relationship breakdowns; life transitions, or struggling with one’s own mortality.

You need to know that you are not alone. What’s most personal is universal. Here at Vita House, you will be welcomed – and we will strive to meet your needs so that you can live your best life.

The overall aim of counselling and psychotherapy is to provide you with a safe, judgement-free space to explore, discover and clarify ways of living in a more satisfying and resourceful manner.

We at Vita House see our role as one where we facilitate your growth in ways which respect your values, personal resources and capacity for self-determination.

Therapy is a process and recovery takes time, so be gentle with yourself. We all have physical health that needs attention and one’s mental health likewise needs maintenance so that we can function at our best, which is unique for each of us.

Life has never been more challenging and we at Vita House see that on a daily basis with the increasing number of people who are turning up at our door. Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved; being listened to and heard without judgement is healing. If you wish to contact Vita House, Abbey Street, Roscommon please call 090 6625898. We are here to serve our community – which is you.

The Roscommon Club with No Name that lets young people socialise safely without peer pressure

It can be tough being a young person. Pressure from school, peer pressure, and the pressure to be many things to many people can be overwhelming. So, an organisation that allows young people to be themselves, in a safe, supervised environment, free from judgement and that encourages them to enjoy ‘old school’ activities like board games, discos, and chats over a cuppa, has got to be a good thing.

This is where No Name Club makes a difference. Founded in 1978, No Name Club is a national, voluntary youth organisation that aims to empower young people aged 15-18 by providing a fun, safe environment where they can socialise without the pressures of alcohol or drugs.

With clubs all over Ireland, including one in Kilbride, No Name Club plays a vital role in offering young people safe spaces where they can build conﬁdence and social skills while avoiding some of the risks of peer pressure.

Dr Garrett Keenaghan, Chairperson of No Name Club, said: “We know that it’s crucial for young people to build confidence and self-esteem. No Name Club is more than just a social outlet –it’s a place where young people can build confidence, learn new skills, and make lifelong friends”. No Name Club goes beyond just providing a hangout spot. By involving young people in the planning and running of events, the organisation helps them build confidence and leadership skills. Through its activities, No Name Club raises awareness about the effects of alcohol and drugs, empowering young people to make informed choices. Membership fees are kept low to ensure that the club is accessible to all young people, offering them a supportive environment in which to thrive.

safe, welcoming environments that are central to the club’s mission.

If you’d like to ﬁnd out more about establishing a No Name Club in your locality, or you’d like to ﬁnd out more about your nearest club, contact nonameclub. ie

About no name club

No Name Club is always looking to establish new clubs around the country but needs volunteers who are willing to help. As a volunteer-led organisation, No Name Club relies on the dedication of its volunteers, who work tirelessly to guide and mentor young members. These volunteers are essential in creating the

Founded in 1978, No Name Club is a national youth organisation dedicated to providing alcohol-free social spaces for young people aged 15-18. With over 50 clubs across Ireland, including two in Dublin, No Name Club empowers young people to enjoy a fun, fulﬁlling social life without the need for alcohol or drugs. The No Name Club is funded by The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth and the Health Service Executive and works with organisations across the youth sector, such as the National Youth Council of Ireland and Gaisce.

Pictured are Dympna O’Rourke and Stephen Banahan, volunteers with No Name Club Kilbride, Co Roscommon with John Williams, Club Support Officer at the recent No Name Club Volunteer Conference in Portlaoise.

Looking after your wellness at Athlone Care Clinic

Athlone Care Clinic is a well-established local wellness clinic specialising in counselling, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, medical massage and training in psychological wellbeing.

The clinic’s professional care team are all experts in their ﬁeld, with signiﬁcant training, work, and lived experience.

At Athlone Care Clinic, a holistic, client-centred approach is offered, where everyone is treated with respect, dignity, and the highest standards of conﬁdentiality.

Clients’ needs are paramount and each support

package is tailored to addresses an individual’s needs and goals.

For every new client that’s undertaken, a detailed initial meeting is held to learn more about each client’s situation, needs, concerns and goals. The service which is believed will work best for each particular client is then offered.

Every client is guaranteed open, honest and transparent guidance. Athlone Care Clinic are here to support you at every stage in your journey.

PTS & TRAUMA

Flashbacks, nightmares and recurring, intrusive thoughts and images may haunt you.

ANXIETY

Di culty breathing. Overwhelming and impending fear may shatter your body.

LIFE & BUSINESS COACHING

With all that the seasons of life can throw at you, we can guide you through it

DEPRESSION

Feelings of endless dark voids or complete loss may consume your very soul. When no one else seems to understand what you are going through or how to help.

PLAY THERAPY

Research shows Children process their challenges through play. Professional play therapy can help your child get through loss, divorce, bullying and abuse.

At Athlone Care Clinic,

provide a comprehensive wellness support clinic that covers a wide variety of mental, physical and emotional health challenges in life

Carol’s Counselling Services

Carol’s Counselling Service offers conﬁdential counselling sessions to adults, adolescents and under 16’s through online and phone platforms. Depending on your preference, Carol utilises WhatsApp as this convenient approach eliminates the hassle of waiting rooms, transportation and parking, enabling you to comfortably engage in counselling sessions from the comfort of your own home.

Carol also does face to face sessions every Wednesday from 9am to 5pm at Athlone Care Clinic, N37 V568, which is just across the road from Golden Island Shopping Centre. Throughout her experience, Carol has successfully assisted individuals coping with depression, anxiety and stress using a variety of techniques including Person-Centred Therapy and Humanistic Approach.

Carol also offers low cost counselling, but availability is limited. Call today to secure your spot.

Call Carol today on 087 605 1003 or email info@carolscounselling.ie or book an appointment through our website www.carolscounselling.ie

Pictured is a play therapy room at Athlone Care Clinic.

‘Recovery is possible. Let’s end the stigma’

BUTLER LAUNCHES DISCOVERY COLLEGE WEST IN CASTLEREA

Minister for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler TD recently launched Discovery College West in Castlerea, Co Roscommon.

Also in attendance with Minister Butler were Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr Michael Kilcoyne (Vice-Chairperson, Regional Health Forum West), Senator Eugene Murphy, Catherine Brogan (Chair of the National Implementation and Monitoring Committee (NIMC)) and Michael Ryan (National Lead Mental Health Engagement and Recovery). Oran Lennon from Strokestown’s Scoil Mhuire demonstrated his great musical talent throughout the launch.

Discovery College West, the ﬁrst of its kind in Ireland, is a mental health recovery education initiative for young people aged between 12 and 25, which aims to promote positive mental health and wellbeing, facilitate prevention and early intervention, and foster mental health recovery in this population.

It is a community-facing recovery education service, currently covering Roscommon, Galway and Mayo. The project was initially successfully piloted in Roscommon in 2019, leading to the appointment of the Discovery College Peer Recovery Educator, Chloe Costello, in September 2022. Reducing stigma, encouraging connection, and fostering hope and empowerment are central elements in

each interactive Discovery College workshop. It provides a space where young people can discuss, explore, learn and share knowledge and experience of mental health challenges, wellbeing, and recovery.

In her address, Minister Butler said, “This launch is the result of a huge effort and investment from many stakeholders in the pilot project in partnership with Mental Health Ireland, and I would like to express my thanks to Chloe, Project Lead and her team, for delivering on Ireland’s ﬁrst ground-breaking Discovery College.

“I was struck here by the three words ‘share’, ‘explore’, and ‘learn’ – and that’s what we’re talking about in relation to a Discovery College.

‘Sharing The Vision’, our mental health policy talks about clinical programmes, recovery, peer support, lived experience, moving away from institutions, and I have to say that ‘Sharing The Vision’ is alive and well in this room today, it is absolutely fantastic”.

Peer Recovery Educator Chloe Costello highlighted, “What makes this service so unique and different to other mental health workshops is co-production and peer involvement. Young people are involved throughout all stages of this service, from deciding the workshop topics, to co-producing the content, co-facilitating, being on the operational team, feedback and service improvement. Their knowledge and experience is what fuels this service. And not only young people, but their family members/carers/supporters, and those who work

with young people in the services.

“By bringing the expertise of all these people together, it’s a recipe for continued learning, and respect of the varying degrees of knowledge. Through our interactive co-productions and workshops, it gives young people the opportunity to talk to each other about their experiences and it’s with this connection they learn – I am not alone. And that in itself opens up doors to reaching out for help and support when they need it”.

Conor Gavin, who recently commenced his role as Recovery Education Facilitator at The Discovery College, expressed his excitement about the potential for growth and development both for the college and himself, emphasising the importance of lived experience in recovery.

Charlie Meehan (Head of Mental Health Services, HSE Community Healthcare West) stated, “I am a very proud man standing here today. This service is run by young people for young people. It is not only the way we need to be going, it is the way we are going. The people who deliver this service are the experts, they are the experts by experience”.

Closing the event, Minister Butler emphasised there is not a family in Ireland that has not been challenged by mental health difﬁculties at some time; “The one thing I do want to say is mental health is not a bad word”, she said. “Recovery is possible. Let’s end the stigma.

“Let’s all start here today by spreading a real positive message to the young people in this part of the country that there’s a college here to support them every day of the week”.

Dr Delia McGuinness (CAMHS Connect Clinical Lead), Conor Gavin (Discovery College West Recovery Education Facilitator) pictured (seated) along with Orla O’Duinn (Occupational Therapy Manager, East Galway/Roscommon Mental Health Services), Donal Hoban (Service Reform Lead, Mayo Mental Health Services), Chloe Costello (Discovery College West Peer Recovery Educator), Catherine Brogan (Chair of NIMC), Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr Michael Kilcoyne (Vice-Chairperson, Regional Health Forum West), Michael Ryan (National Lead, Mental Health Engagement and Recovery), Charlie Meehan (Head of Mental Health Services, Community Healthcare West), and Senator Eugene Murphy pictured standing, along with Mary Butler TD (Minister for Mental Health and Older People) and Max Farrell (Discovery College West Co-Producer and volunteer), at the recent launch.

Conor Gavin (Discovery College West Recovery Education Facilitator), Mary Butler TD (Minister for Mental Health and Older People), Max Farrell (Discovery College West Co-Producer and volunteer), and Chloe Costello (Discovery College West Peer Recovery Educator) pictured at the recent launch.

Conor Gavin (Discovery College West Recovery Education Facilitator), Chloe Costello (Discovery College West Peer Recovery Educator), Mary Butler TD (Minister for Mental Health and Older People), and Orla O’Duinn (Occupational Therapy Manager, East Galway/Roscommon Mental Health Services) pictured at the recent launch.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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Roscommon author wins John McGahern Award for Literature

Shane Tivenan from Athlone, County Roscommon, was recently named as the winner of the 2024 John McGahern Award for Literature during this year’s Iron Mountain Literature Festival.

The Roscommon author is already an award- winning writer, notably having won the RTÉ Short Story Competition in 2020.

Writers Kevin Barry, Neil Jordan, Nelofer Pazira-Fisk, and poet Mary O’Malley were among the guests at this year’s festival, which took place in the Dock in Carrick-on-Shannon, over the weekend of October 4th to 6th.

For more information about the Iron Mountain Literature Festival, visit ironmountainfestival.ie.

Drama Festival AGM looks back… and forward!

The AGM of the Roscommon Drama Festival committee was held in Gleeson’s Townhouse, Roscommon on Monday, September 23rd.

Following on from a very successful festival in March 2024, the Chairperson Mairead Nally thanked her “very energetic and efﬁcient committee” for their invaluable support and contribution in making “our 2024 festival one of the best ever”.

A very special word of thanks was reserved for the groups, patrons, advertisers, sponsors and the staff of the Arts Centre who all play their part in its success.

Referring to the adjudicator Padraig McIntyre, Mairead noted that “he was his usual self, a mix of the entertainer, as well as the adjudicator, and continues to be a crowd pleaser here in Roscommon”.

A special ward of thanks was given to the management and staff of the Roscommon People, Roscommon Herald, RosRM and Shannonside for their excellent coverage and support of the festival.

The ofﬁcers for the coming year are Chairperson Mairead Nally, Secretary Marie McCrann, Treasurer Caroline Cunningham, and PRO Jimmy Hoban.

The festival, which continues to grow in strength and is now regarded as one of the premier drama events in the country, will run from the 7th to the 15th of March next year, 2025, and the adjudicator is Irene O’Meara.

Finally, the committee wish to extend a huge thank you to everyone

Members of Roscommon Drama Festival Committee pictured at the launch of the 2024 Festival earlier this year (with then-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr John Keogh). Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

who has helped to put Roscommon Drama on the map as well as on the stage.

Shane Tivenan (from Athlone, Co Roscommon), winner of the 2024 John McGahern Award for Literature, pictured being presented with his prize by Cllr Paddy Farrell at Iron Mountain Literature Festival last weekend. Pic: Brian Farrell

Vincent Woods pictured with author and journalist Lynn Geldof last weekend during the Iron Mountain Literature Festival. Pic: Brian Farrell

Shane Tivenan (from Athlone, Co Roscommon), winner of the 2024 John McGahern Award for Literature, pictured (second from left) at the Iron Mountain Literature Festival, along with his parents Batty and Mary, fiancée Bolorchimeg Dashdorj (centre), and sister Eadaoin Tivenan MacKessy (right). Pic: Brian

Below is an adapted version a leaﬂet volunteers of Irish Society for Christian Civilisation distributed to 5,000 households in Trim and the surrounding area.

What is the Púca Festival?

It is a festival, aimed at promoting Ireland as the birthplace of Halloween on an international level, taking place from October 31st-November 3rd. However, it threatens the Catholic faith and Christian culture of Ireland. The lighting of the Samhain Fire, one of the Festival’s events, is described as a “powerful ritual” that seeks to “bridge the gap between the physical and the spiritual worlds” and to carry “messages to those who have passed before us.”

Describing the Púca Procession in Trim, the Púca website tells you to “be prepared to witness shape-shifting spirits and other-worldly creatures emerging to join the revelry.”

At the “sacred” Hill of Ward, participants are asked to “prepare an offering for their ancestors.” These are just some examples of the occultist overtones of the festival.

Dabbling in the Occult

Though promoted as something fun and entertaining, dabbling in the occult always has serious consequences. “The hidden, unanticipated result of participating in these practices is that a person opens themselves up to the activity of evil spirits and, unwittingly, to the deceptive attraction of other demonic and satanic activity. In this way, a person compromises their own spiritual health and well-being because of some initial voluntary participation in things through which evil spirits gain entry into their lives.” 1

The Catechism of the Catholic Church is clear. “All forms of divination are to be rejected: recourse to Satan or demons, conjuring up the dead or other practices falsely supposed to “unveil” the future. Consulting horoscopes, astrology, palm reading, interpretation of omens and lots, the phenomena of clairvoyance, and recourse to mediums all conceal a desire for power over time, history and in the last analysis, other human beings, as well as a wish to conciliate hidden powers. They contradict the honour, respect, and loving fear that we owe to God alone.”

“All practices of magic or sorcery, by which one attempts to tame occult powers, so as to place them at one’s service and have a supernatural power over others – even if this were for the sake of restoring their health – are gravely contrary to the virtue of religion.” 2

An Attack on the Christian Culture of Ireland

This festival tends to obscure the Catholic Church’s triumph over paganism with the

coming of Saint Patrick to Ireland and obliterate the legacy of our great patron saint whose apostolate began precisely in the east of Ireland. No matter how much the Catholic Church is attacked today in the media, it is impossible to ignore the massive contribution it has made to this country. Of course, the greatest contribution of the Church to society is teaching the Catholic Faith. By appealing to the country’s ancient pagan roots, the Puca Festival represents an attack on the Catholic Faith.

The Real Halloween

Halloween is simply a corruption of the words All Hallows’ Eve, the day before All Saints Day. In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III instituted All Saints Day on November 1st, automatically making October 31st the Eve before All Saints. November 2nd is the “Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed” which is founded upon the Catholic Church’s doctrine that those faithful who have not been cleansed from the temporal punishment due to sin and from their attachment to sin cannot enjoy the Beatiﬁ c Vision in heaven

Irish Society for Christian Civilisation Talbot Hall, P.O.Box 9701, Swords, Co. Dublin.

immediately upon their death. They must ﬁ rst go through Purgatory. It is a day we can celebrate and imitate the hundreds of great Irish Saints who have gone before us.

In contrast with this tradition, one Púca Festival participant in 2022 said that, “Púca is from the underworld... We need to mind ourselves and we all dress up so we don’t end up in the underworld...We are here to stay safe.”

An Attack on Irish Values

Irish are world-famous for their kindness, hospitality, and amiability. In contrast, the aspects that are celebrated in the Púca festival idols are the opposite of this: “Fear,” “destruction,” “mischief,” “havoc,” “malevolence”, according to a local historian. 3

Who Do We Want our Children to Imitate?

The people or things we admire inﬂ uence us for good or for bad. Do we want our children to take the Púca as a role model? Do we want to set up as something worthy of our children’s admiration Morrigan, the goddess of battle rage, destruction and war? Or do we want our children to admire the example set by the saints such as St. Francis of Assisi, St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Ferdinand of Spain?As Catholics we are called to live in society and make it more Catholic. This is the Christian Civilisation we strive for. The Púca Festival on the other hand is an invitation to the occult and to further erase Christianity from society.

God is the Solution, not Evil!

The devil will do all tricks to ensnare people. Ugliness and evil ultimately lead to the devil. They don’t encourage kindness or love. God on the other hand, calls us to kindness and love. By turning to God, we can appreciate the real history of Trim, a Catholic history it can be very proud of. St. Augustine says to God, “You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in You.” Let’s therefore turn back to God and his Commandments.

Scan to find out more about the root causes and final effects of this Neo-Pagan Revolution in Ireland & Europe

Preparing your home for the colder months

your home from potential issues and enhance its comfort and efﬁciency as we head into the

colder months of the year. One thing that is essential to ensuring your home is kept warm and dry amid cooler temperatures is making sure that all windows and doors are properly sealed off. Heat loss through small cracks can signiﬁcantly increase your energy bill and leave your home feeling less cosy. By implementing some

simple ﬁxes, a noticeable difference can be made in keeping the warmth inside while reducing energy consumption.

Another good idea to work on before the coldest and wettest months set in is to commence cleaning out

gutters and downspouts, and to inspect your roof.

As temperatures drop, your roof is your home’s ﬁrst line of defence against the elements, so it’s important it’s in good shape for the cold season ahead. Likewise, make sure to

ensure that your heating system is in optimal condition at this time of year.

Making sure that your heating system works efﬁciently will keep your home warm and your energy bills manageable during the cold months.

Also, don’t forget to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. With the increased use of heating systems, ﬁreplaces, and space heaters during autumn and winter, it’s important to ensure your smoke and carbon monox-

ide detectors are working properly. Replace the batteries, and if the detectors are over 10 years old, consider replacing the entire unit. These simple steps can help protect your family and home from serious danger.

In a new study by leading European retailer reichelt elektronik, consumers revealed their thoughts on smart home technology – why and how they use smart home products, and what they want from a smart home of the future.

According to the survey, the large majority of Irish households (81%) use smart home products – 10% more than European counterparts. Voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home (63%), and intelligent multimedia systems like smart TVs and music systems (62%) were noted as particularly popular.

These ﬁndings align with the key reasons consumers cite for purchasing smart home devices. Just under half (47%) see increasing comfort as the main reason for the purchasing of smart home technology, with practical functions (such as remote access or automation of processes) in second place (43%). In addition to comfort, both security and the desire to save on energy costs were seen as notable reasons. Almost a third (30%) look to increase home security through tech, with high levels of perceived effectiveness applied to such products; 81% of respondents view smart security cameras as useful, 76% think the same of smart doorbells, and 65% believe smart home locks are beneﬁcial.

Just behind security, 29% of smart tech users said reducing energy costs was a purchasing driver. Almost half (46%) found they’ve been able to lower spending on utility expenditures with the aid of smart devices.

The survey also found control via a smartphone app (68%) is signiﬁcantly more popular than using voice control (37%) or a remote control (28%) – ﬁndings that are in keeping with results from other European countries.

When making a purchase decision, the Irish population attach great importance to a good price-performance ratio (48%), solid data protection (44%) and the longevity of the products (37%). However, pain points for those looking to buy smart home tech include high prices (57%), errors and failures (42%), concerns about data protection (37%) and installation complications (28%), highlighting the need for improvements by manufacturers.

While 81% of respondents have smart tech in their homes, there is a belief amongst the population that these products are not accessible for the older population or people with disabilities, with 68% expressing such a view. There’s a demand for smart home tech for older people living at home who need support for their own

care, with 41% noting this is the area they would most like to see new products created for. Behind this demand comes the creation of a device that tracks lost belongings, i.e. glasses or keys (35%), automatic window locking systems (24%), health tracker for dogs (23%), personal assistants (23%) and products that can prepare hot drinks or cook (23%).

Above all, consumers want lower prices for smart home products (50%), in addition to more security functions (38%), and more options for controlling processes in the home (33%) in the future.

“The study shows that smart homes are already an established part of many people’s everyday lives across Ireland,” commented Christian Reinwald (Head of Product Management at reichelt elektronik).

“Smart devices are not only a functional support, they are an essential component for an efﬁcient home”, he said. “With rising energy prices in recent years, adopting smart home technology is proving an effective way to reduce costs.

“The possibilities of smart products are far from exhausted – and as the study shows, people are looking forward to innovations that make their lives easier and more enjoyable”.

Buckley Windows and Doors is a trusted familyrun business located in Pullough, Tullamore, County Offaly, specialising in the manufacture and installation of high-quality windows and doors. They have built a solid reputation for providing premium products, tailored to meet the speciﬁc needs of homeowners and businesses across the midlands.

Buckley Windows and Doors is committed to delivering exceptional customer service from start to ﬁnish. Their experienced team offers a complete service, including initial consultation, design and professional installation. They work closely with clients to ensure that every project meets their individual requirements, whether they are upgrading existing windows and doors or embarking on new builds.

Energy efﬁciency is at the heart of product design, helping homeowners reduce their heating costs and environmental impact. All windows and doors are built to the highest industry standards, ensuring excellent insulation and security features.

As a proud local business, Buckley Windows and Doors has established a loyal customer base across Offaly and the surrounding counties. Their dedication to quality, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction have made them a go-to choice

for those seeking reliable and stylish window and door solutions. For more information or to request a quote, contact Liam

If, like many around you, you are seeing the potential beneﬁts of using renewable energy to power your lifestyle, then the team at Western Renewables can guide you through all the options to help you make the transition!

From working in the electrical industry for over twenty years, they have seen how renewable energy is evolving – and they have the solutions to help save you money while reducing your carbon footprint.

In an ever-growing market, more and more individuals and businesses are making the switch to sustainable energy solutions, such as PV solar panels and electric vehicle chargers.

Western Renewables have the expertise to identify the right solution for your home or business. They can advise on a suitable PV solar system based on your speciﬁc property and usage demands, with both battery and battery ready systems available.

Partnering with leading electric vehicle charging manufacturers, they supply, install and maintain innovative ecofriendly and smart electric vehicle charging products. They also offer a free, no-obligation

consultation for all of their customers to ensure the best service and price.

You can also be assured that the job will be done to the highest standards as all their electricians are registered and trained.

Western Renewables will help you through the process of applying for any grants that are available from the SEAI to install your EV charger or PV solar panels. They are focused on playing their part in reducing their customers’ carbon footprint and the reliance on the grid and fossil fuels.

So get in touch and join the Western Renewables energy movement and start saving today!

For more details on how to live a greener life and to play your part in combatting climate change, contact Ivan and his team at evchargersgalway@ gmail.com or info@westernrenewables.ie, or phone 087 9329779.

on 086 0423457.

Cathaoirleach launches Roscommon Town Decarbonisation Zone

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice recently launched Roscommon Town’s Decarbonisation Zone and Biodiversity Project in Loughnaneane Park, Roscommon, as part of Climate Action Roscommon Day – promoting local sustainability and increasing environmental awareness.

The initiative, which is funded by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), the Local Biodiversity Action Fund, and RCC, will ensure biodiversity is enhanced and carbon emissions are reduced in the town, which is a key objective of the RCC Climate Action Plan.

The EV demonstration event proved very popular with eighteen cars, all currently for sale locally, on display by local dealerships. A further highlight of the day was the range of cycles displayed by Roscommon Sports Partnership.

Roscommon County Council’s Environment section also provided expert advice to attendees on following good recycling practices. Meanwhile, the Roscommon Women’s Network also showcased the circular economy and demonstrated how to make a draught excluder from scrap textiles.

This device, as well as helping households save money, will help reduce energy from being wasted in the home. Initiatives on how to save energy and cut carbon emissions were also promoted by the SEAI.

Considerable interest was also expressed in the information provided on grants available to householders wishing to install renewables and insulate their homes, very appropriate given the drop in temperature recently.

As well as information stands providing information by organisations such as LAWPRO, CELT, Breeding Waders EIP, Bat Conservation Ireland, and the Melting Pot, attendees were able to take part in a hedgerow walk guided by Hedgerows Ireland and learn about basket weaving from Westcountry Willows.

Fittingly, the Climate Action Team, working closely with Roscommon Town Team, celebrated Global Rossie Day – the theme of which was connections, coinciding as it did with UN Sustainable Development Goals Week.

Pictured at the launch were (front row, left to right): Shane Tiernan, CEO, Roscommon County Council; Martin Keaveney, Breata Coyle, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) and Barry Tapster. Back row, left to right: Jody Moylan, Annette Donlon and Aoife Moore.

Pictured at the launch were Jody Moylan, Annette Donlon, Barry Tapster, Breata Coyle and Aoife Moore.

Pictured at the launch were Noel Feeley, Roscommon Sports Partnership (front, seated) with Ben Kelly (Bealnamulla) and Sandra, John, Luke and Roger Connolly (Creevy, Roscommon).

Pictured at the launch were Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) and David Rafter.

Pictured at the launch were Barry Tapster and Colin Kearney (Connolly’s of Sligo).

IFAC advises dairy farmers to prioritise cashflow management and budgeting to get ahead

With our continuing unpredictable climate, Ifac, Ireland’s farming, food, and agribusiness specialist professional services firm is advising Roscommon farmers to get on top of the financial health of their farm by setting aside time for cashflow management and budgeting, to ensure their business remains profitable and sustainable.

This year, the weather has been particularly challenging for farmers, leaving many short on grass and struggling to maintain their milk output. This has led to an increase in the need for feed, putting additional strain on already tight budgets. In light of these challenges, the importance of effective cashﬂow and budgeting has never been more apparent.

Philip O’Connor, Head of Farm Support at ifac said: “Cashflow is the lifeblood of any business, and this is particularly true for farms. If your profits are up in 2024 to date, consider setting aside some cash to help tide you over next year. If your cashflow is under pressure, review your loans and interest rates and look for opportunities to secure better value. Where available, consider using savings to support working capital if necessary. Other options to consider include delaying non-essential capital expenditure or

seeking funding by way of a loan.

“A well-prepared budget can help you anticipate and prepare for future challenges, such as the weatherrelated difﬁculties that many have faced this year. If you don’t have a budget in place for 2024, it is not too late to plan one for the remainder of the year and into 2025. Working out your fertiliser, concentrate, and feed requirements will help you estimate what you need to budget for the remainder of the year. You must also look at your income sources and any other costs you expect to incur.

“Once you have this information, you will be able to produce a ﬁnancial budget and predict whether you will be cash-positive or negative in 2025. And software, such as ifac’s FarmPro, allows you to track this budget against real-time income and expenditure to ensure you are always up to speed.

“If after completing your budget, you expect to be cash-negative after drawings, loan repayments and tax, you need to examine funding options. Now is the time to review cashﬂow and potentially look at funding options, not next spring if the farm runs into cashﬂow issues”. In working with our clients regularly, what ifac is seeing is the variances we are seeing on costs and output. Dairy

farmers are being hit from both sides concerning output and costs. In an unusual scenario, the ﬁrm is seeing overall costs per cow decreasing slightly but the cost per litre rising. This is due to the production dropping more than the overall total cost and therefore increasing the cost per litre.

Philip continued, “The other area we are seeing is the overall variance in

costs in the sector from the mid-30-cent mark (circa €1,900 per cow) to over the 50-cent mark and climbing towards 3k a cow. Two factors are driving this: stocking rate and feed inputs. Overstocked farms are seeing spiralling feed costs and not getting an exponential return on output. This is driving cost per litre and has a very negative effect on margins. Every farmer,

regardless of their chosen system, must have a sustainable number of cows for the available grass they are growing. This calculation is different on every farm but it is vital that every farmer spends time examining their stocking rates and adjust accordingly. “From a cashﬂow perspective, if a cow is costing circa 2k a year and the majority of costs are incurred in the ﬁrst

1/3 of the year the farmer needs to have adequate cash reserves carrying into the late winter/ early spring. At ifac, we believe farmers need to have min. €200 per cow available cash (banked/ overdraft) so as not to incur signiﬁcant merchant credit balances in this period.

“This year’s weather has been particularly difﬁcult for farmers, highlighting the im-

portance of effective cashﬂow and budgeting. Your accountant and agricultural advisor can provide practical advice to improve the overall performance of your business and show you how your farm is performing when compared to similar farms in your sector. In Ifac, we always promote the concept of a ‘farming team’ where the farmer, accountant and agricultural advisor work together for the beneﬁt of the farm. By bringing all of your professional advice together, you get a deeper understanding of your business, which enables you to identify and address potential problems, grab opportunities, and make the right decisions at the right time so that your farm can survive and thrive both now and, in the future,” Philip continued.

“It’s clear that careful management of costs, stocking rates, and cashﬂow is essential for dairy farmers to maintain proﬁtability and sustainability in their operations. Regular monitoring, adjustment, and planning are key to navigating the challenges in the sector”.

With over 40 years’ experience, we understand that every succession story is unique.

To plan ahead and secure peace of mind for you, your family and your farm’s future, contact our specialist team of advisors today.

662 6599 or visit www.ifac.ie

Co.

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

Sponsor Anthony Cahill (Cahill’s SuperValu

Galway Road Athlone Tel.: 090 6437103 Mobile: 086 8187103

Roscommon community groups can share in €110m ethical investment

Roscommon community groups can beneﬁt from a €110 million investment aimed at supporting not-for-proﬁt organisations across Ireland. This funding, provided by Community Finance Ireland (CFI), was highlighted during the FEBEA conference held at Croke Park on September 27th.

CFI’s CEO Dónal Traynor shared that the funds, invested since 2001, have supported various community initiatives, including faith-based organisations and sports clubs, as traditional lenders often struggle to meet the unique needs of the community sector. With a remarkably low default rate of below 0.5% on loans since 2008, CFI focuses on building strong relationships with the groups it supports.

Finance Minister Jack Chambers emphasised the importance of ethical ﬁnancing as a tool for fostering community impact and expressed optimism about learning from European ethical ﬁnance practices.

This marks the ﬁrst time FEBEA has held its annual meeting in Ireland, highlighting the growing emphasis on ethical investing in the region.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, Mary Nohilly (CFI Client Relationship Manager for Roscommon) said her role includes helping “facilitate social ﬁnance solutions to those in the area, who have a project that supports social impact and needs ﬁnance”.

Mary continued: “Community involvement is a key consideration to success and to sustainability of any idea. In our experience success is almost always guaranteed when the project has community ‘buy-in’.

“Community or sports groups who approach us have a far greater chance of loan approval when we can see the commitment of the village or town behind the loan purpose. Often community involvement can be demonstrated by previous fundraising activity which

is a clear indicator of community engagement”.

CFI offer bridge loans, which help a group attain the ﬁnance they need in order to avail of grant funding, as well as term loans for bigger projects.

Mary continued: “We are with the group for the duration of the loan. There is always a local contact point nearby and that seasoned

navigator is very much invested in understanding what the long-term ambitions of the project are and who the people behind it are.

“What will be of key interest to sports clubs in the region is our support for the recently successful Sports Capital Grant awardees. Approximately €5 million has been awarded to applicants in Roscommon. With 51% of our client portfolio in the sports sector, we deliver fair and fast ﬁnance that immediately helps the retrospective nature of these grants. This is done by supporting the awardee with a bridging loan that helps them keep momentum and move from award to actual execution”.

If any local sports clubs or groups would like to avail of the recently announced Sports Capital Funding, you can begin the process by sending an enquiry on the CFI website: https://communityfinanceireland. com/

Castlerea) pictured presenting Tom Lyons (Erri , Ballyhaunis) with his second-place prize in Class 1 Best Charolais Weanling Bull at the annual weanling show and sale at Castlerea Mart. Also in photo is Gordon Cutler (judge on the day) and Padraig O’Connor (Chairperson, Castlerea Mart Committee). Pic: Glynn’s Photography

Sponsor Eddie Cronin (Norbrook Laboratories) presenting Michael Cahill (Castlerea) with his third-place prize for Class 2 Best Charolais Weanling Heifer at the annual continental weanling show and sale at Castlerea Mart. Also in photo is Gordon Cutler (judge on the day) and Padraig O’Connor (Chairperson, Castlerea Mart Committee). Pic: Glynn’s Photography

Zara Hanley from Athleague pictured with her mother Nicola and pony Chime, competing at the recent Strokestown show. Pic: Strokestown Show via Facebook

Prize-winner Robyn Hanley from Athleague pictured on her pony Teddy at Strokestown Show 2024. Pic: Strokestown Show Facebook

Dónal Traynor, CEO of Community Finance Ireland.

FarmingPeople

Castlerea MART WATCH

Castlerea Mart held its annual show and sale of Aberdeen angus heifers on Thursday, October 3rd.

A large entry of angus heifers met a rm trade, with the top quality stores making up to 3.22 a kilo, while the heavier angus lots made up to €2100. The weanling trade continues to be a ne trade, with bulls making up to 4.14 a kilo, while the heifer weanlings topped out at 4.19 a kilo with excellent demand on o er. Dry cows made up to €2200 while cows with calves at foot made up to €2000 and springers made up to €1800.

Heifers, sample prices: Lim x 390kgs €1370, AA 390kgs €1250, AA 385kgs €1240, AA 410kgs €1230, Ch 470kgs €1580, Lim 450kgs €1640, AA 735kgs €2100, Ch 645 kgs €1840, AA 575kgs €1750, and AA 600kgs €1730.

Dry cows, sample prices: PTX 800kgs €2200, AA 790kgs €2170, BBx 805kgs €2130, Sim 740kgs €1950, AA 680 €1830, Sim 725kgs €1930, Ch 655kgs €1850, and Sim 750kgs €1650.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1750 to €2000, springer cows made from €760 to

€1800, and runner lots made from €160 to €890 for continental lots.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Ch 280kgs €1160, AA 285kgs €1080, Ch 29kgs €1030, Ch 270kgs €1020, Ch 255kgs €1010, AA 285kgs €1000, BBx 360kgs €1430, Ch 375kgs €1300, Ch 345kgs €1290, Ch 430kgs €1290, Lim 260kgs €1010, and Ch 335kgs €1270.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Ch 275kgs €1120, Ch 240kgs €970, Lim 245kgs €920, AA 285kgs €860, Ch 245kgs €800, Ch 305kgs €1280, Ch 385kgs €1400, Ch 305kgs €1160, and BBx 355kgs €1080.

Castlerea Mart also held their annual show and sale of AA bullocks on Monday, September 30th. Quality AA stores made up to 3.42 a kilo while heavier lots made up to €2100. Overall, a good clearance took place, with a good attendance of buyers both online and at the ringside.

Sample prices: AA 490kgs €1650, AA 482kgs €1650, AA 455kgs €1550, AA 533kgs €1700, AA 585kgs €1890, AA 615kgs €2070, AA 730kgs €2100, and AA 705kgs €1900. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart. All sales commence at 11 am.

-€2.31 per kg, LMX870KG- €2240- €2.57 per kg, CHX -790KG€2380- €3.01 per kg, CHX -800KG -€2150€2.69 per kg, BBX-715KG- €2120- €2.97 per kg, and LMX-625KG -€1910- €3.06 per kg.

Bullocks ranged from an average of €3.18 per kilo up to €4.13 per kilo. Sample prices:

SIX-915KG- €2500- €2.73 per kg, LMX865KG- €2350 - €2.72 per kg, CHX-800KG€2100- €2.63 per kg, LMX- 715KG- €1890€2.64 per kg, HEX- 675KG- €1560- €2.31 per kg, and LMX -600KG - €1560-€2.60 per kg.

Weanlings

There was a large entry of quality weanlings on o er at our sale held on Tuesday evening, October 8th, with a strong trade for bulls and heifers. The next sale is on Tuesday, October 15th

Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.63 per kilo up to €5.25 per kilo. Heifer weanlings made from an average of €3.09 per kilo up to €4.00. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active. Bull weanlings ranged from an average of €3.63 per kilo up to €5.25 per kilo. Sample prices: CHX- 510KG -€2140 -€4.20 per kg,

CHX- 465KG- €2070- €4.45 per kg, CHX420KG- €1970 -€4.69 per kg, CHX -480KG€1640- €3.42 per kg, AAX -385KG- €1580 -€4.10 per kg, CHX -350KG -€1450 -€4.14 per kg, CHX- 335KG -€1330 -€3.97 per kg, and CHX-270KG-€1290- €4.78 per kg.

Heifer weanlings ranged from an average of €3.09 per kilo up to €4.00 per kilo.

Sample prices: CHX-465KG -€1400- €3.01 per kg, BBXX -35KG-€1320-€3.03 per kg, CHX340KG- €1340-€3.94 per kg, 2X-CHX- 325KG€1300- €4.00 per kg, CHX- 295KG- €1100 -€3.73 per kg, CHX- 250KG- €990- €3.96 per kg, and CHX-225KG-€740- €3.29 per kg. Sheep

We had a large number of sheep on o er at our weekly Sale of Lambs and stag ewes on Wednesday, October 9th. Prices for spring lambs made up to €174 while stag ewes topped out at €210.

The next sheep sale takes place on Wednesday, October 16th. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com.

Spring lambs, sample prices: 48.2kgs -€174- €3.61 per kg, 57.5kgs -€173- €3.01 per kg, 56kgs- €172-€3.07 per kg, 50kgs -€169- €3.38 per kg, 47kgs- €162- €3.45 per kg, 45kgs -€152- €3.38 per kg, and 42.9kgs€144- €3.36 per kg. Cast ewes, sample prices: 97.7kgs- €210€2.15 per kg, 89.5kgs - €186 - €2.08 per kg, 83kgs - €170 - €2.05 per kg, 82Kgs - €166 - €2.02 per kg, 76Kgs - €155 - €2.04 per kg, and 70.2kgs

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Sponsor Eddie Cronin (Norbrook Laboratories) pictured presenting Mairead and Trevor Kelly (Trien, Castlerea) with their third-place prize for Class 1 Best Charolais Weanling Bull at the annual weanling show and sale at Castlerea Mart. Also in picture are Gordon Cutler (judge on the day), Anthony Cahill (sponsor, Cahill’s SuperValu Castlerea) and Padraig O’Connor (Chairperson, Castlerea Mart Committee). Pic: Glynn’s Photography

NEW TO THE MARKET

Woodberry Court, Galway Road

Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

Superb 4 bedroom residence under construction in Roscommon’s premier residential location overlooking Roscommon Golf Course. This property is being constructed with Insulated Concrete Formwork. As demands for super Insulated and airtight building grows, ICF is rapidly growing in popularity as a method of construction. It o ers excellent insulation and airtightness performance with remarkably low heating costs. This property has an anticipated completion date of March 2025 and will be ‘A’ rated with air to water and heat recovery heating system. Accommodation includes entrance hallway, large

sitting room, open plan kitchen and dining room, utility and guest wc. First oor, 4 double bedrooms (2 ensuite) and family bathroom.

This house can be sold fully nished or a builders nish in this prestigious residential area.

Price Region: POA

NEW TO THE MARKET

The Walk, Roscommon Co. Roscommon F42 R996

Magni cent 8 bedroom (all ensuite) cut stone residence situated on the prestigious Walk Road, a mature residential area on the outskirts of Roscommon Town. Finished to the highest standard with no expense spared, this is without doubt one of the most impressive properties to come to the market in this region in recent years. It is situated on a corner fully landscaped site within walking distance to Roscommon Castle and all Town amenities. Spacious accommodation includes 8 bedrooms all ensuite, sitting room, lounge, open plan kitchen with dining room o , large o ce and bathroom.

puri cation system, solid walnut doors throughout. Outside, landscaped split level garden with natural cut stone walling. Viewing is a must. Price Region: POA BER Rating: B1

Large residence with many attractive features for sale with Oates Auctioneers

Oates Auctioneers are delighted to offer for sale this extremely attractive four-bedroom residence with attached garage built in 2010, nestled on a mature and private 2/3 of an acre, situated only 9 minutes from the picturesque village of Athleague, 14 minutes from Roscommon, 15 minutes from Athlone and only a 5-minute walk to the local primary school and church.

The property is presented for sale in excellent condition and boasts many attractive

features including solid oak kitchen, solar panels, oil ﬁred central heating, marble surround ﬁreplace in the living room and jacuzzi in the GYM room while externally the vehicular driveway extends right around the property.

Ground floor accommodation comprises of entrance hall, living room, large open plan kitchen/dining room, sun room, GYM, utility room, W.C. and attached garage. On the first floor there is a master bedroom with

ensuite and built in wardrobe, 3 double bedrooms, hot press and family bathroom. Front and rear gardens surround the house with manicured lawns, mature hedging, shrubs and trees making this a tranquil rural idyll to work from home. Overall, this property must be viewed to fully appreciate all it has to offer. Price Region: €450,000. BER: B3 For more information, contact Oates Auctioneers on 0906627878 or email info@oates.ie

Derelict residence on c. 18 acres of land

Derelict residence on c. 18 acres of good quality lands located in a popular residential area adjacent to Portrunny Bay. The said lands are in one block with access to the River Hind. There are a number of cut stone out o ces situated on the lands which are located just o the Roscommon/Athlone route, 10 miles from the towns of Roscommon and Athlone. FIRST €100,000 SECURES.

Exceptional ready to go building site with full Planning permission for attractive 4 bedroom two storey residence c. 1972 sq.ft. on excellent site overlooking Roscommon Golf Club in a premier residential location Price Region €100,000. NEW TO THE MARKET Cloonsellan, Ballymurray, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon NEW TO THE MARKET PRIME SITE WITH FULL PLANNING PERMISSION

Church Street, Roscommon Town, CO. ROSCOMMON

TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie The Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, CO. WESTMEATH TEL: 090 6477500 FAX: 090 6477546 E-mail athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

Kiltoom lands for sale by online auction

This week, Connaughton Auctioneers have circa 9.16 acres of prime Kiltoom lands for sale by online auction. The lands are located just off the Kiltoom to Curraghboy Road in the townland of Ardmullan, just a short drive from Athlone Town/the M6 Dublin to Galway motorway. The property is to be sold via online auction on the LSL Platform, at 3 pm on Friday, October 18th

The solicitor for the carriage of sale is John O’Carroll of Mellotte O’Carroll Solicitors, Athlone (090 6492692).

“If any interested party wants further information on how the online auction is conducted, feel free to contact our ofﬁce and ask to speak with me”, he added.

For further information on the property, contact Connaughton Auctioneers on 090 6663700 or email info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton stated, “This is a ﬁne property to come to market, located in a much sought after area. There is huge potential for a building site, with unrivalled views of surrounding countryside and a great location on a quiet country road.

4-bedroom residence situated only 9 minutes from the picturesque

Countdown to Athleague Community Monster Auction

Athleague community are holding a Monster Auction on Sunday, November 3rd, in Athleague Community Centre at 1 pm and are appealing for your help with this major fundraiser.

In recent years, Athleague village and environs has beneﬁted from substantial investment by way of grant-aid and ﬁnancial support from Roscommon County Council, Roscommon LEADER Partnership, SEAI, and numerous Government Departments, supplemented by the generous backing of the local community in previous fundraisers.

The Athleague village streetscape was fully transformed, which resulted in Athleague winning a national award in the All-Ireland Pride of Place Competition in 2019.

Athleague Community Centre was also redeveloped at a cost of €450,000 (loan outstanding circa €120,000).

The new ‘Circle of Life’ Community Park is also now complete in the village green (beside the church).

The day-to-day running of Athleague Tidy Towns is costing more every year.

The village always looks lovely for the festive season. Some of the lights and trans-

formers no longer work and need replacement in 2024. Additional lighting and features are in the planning stage for 2025 and 2026 with an estimated cost of €10,000.

A grant of €50,000 was recently approved for a feasibility study/planning permission application for planned new walks in the vicinity of the River Suck. This requires

payment of €5,000 as match funding. If the feasibility study is successful, it could lead to a €500,000 project, making the beautiful surroundings close to the village

accessible for all to see.

To help fund these initiatives, the upcoming Community Monster Auction is being held at 1 pm on Sunday, November 3rd. We will gratefully accept any goods or vouchers to be auctioned on the day including livestock, machinery, fodder, furniture, hampers, unwanted gifts, etc. Alternatively, you can make a cash donation if desired. There is also the option for 50:50. This is where anyone donating an item/items to the auction can get 50% of the sale price returned to them. The other 50% goes to this fundraiser (Athleague Community Projects). All items entered in the auction will be sold without reserve.

Sponsors are also welcome to support the event. All sponsors will be included on the auction catalogue.

We would gratefully appreciate donations by November 1st to aid in preparation of the catalogue. Collection of items from your house/farm is also available.

For further details, contact Shirley Whyte on 087 4903667, email athleaguecommunityauction@ gmail.com, or contact any committee member.

Keith McLoughlin of Remax Team Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of a three-bedroomed, semidetached residence, located at 24 Lisnaree, Strokestown, Co Roscommon.

Following this sale, Remax Team Early are urgently seeking residences in the Strokestown area for disappointed underbidders.

To arrange a free consultation, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact one of the auctioneers directly: Cormac on 086 3519492, Cathal on 086 1409158, or Keith on 086 0848590.

Lisnaree, Strokestown, Co Roscommon.

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Stephen Casey Construction ●

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Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

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GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS MEETING every Monday at 8.45 pm at St. Kieran’s Community Centre, Athlone (N37 W7P3).

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All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851

MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

FARMING

 FARM REPAIR SHOP

– Roscommon/Lanesboro area. Tel 087 2755738.

 FOR SALE – round and big square bales of barley straw. Can be delivered Tel. 087 2781024.

CARS FOR SALE

 FOR SALE: 151 Toyota Corolla Dsl.; 241 Toyota Corolla Dsl.; 131 Audi A6 5 Line; Burger Van – as new. Call 086 2650994.

FOR SALE: 2007 Peugoet 407. Black. NCT for 11 months. Timing belt, tyres as new, sunroof, fold-in mirrors, nice alloys, black leather upholstery. Good clean car. Tel. 083 8828882.

SALE

 FOR SALE: Stanley No. 9 solid fuel range, full reconditioned, new u-boiler, excellent condition. Would heat 5/6 radiators. Excellent oven for cooking/baking. Colour: white enamel. Contact 087 056 8444 for further information.

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Are you a ected byAnger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Con dence/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

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING

SERVICE

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

• Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.

• Small stock of parts available and can be tted on sprayers

All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069

e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

FENCING/GATES

 FOR SALE: Turf and rewood for sale. Tonne bags. Excellent quality turf and rewood at €50 per bag delivered. Call Tom 086 2628439.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon

P L A N N I N G N O T I C E

I, Agnieszka Tuzimek, intend to apply for permission for development at this site: Tully, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The Development will consist of:

1. Demolition of existing dwelling.

2. Removal of existing ruins to accommodate new treatment system.

3. Construction of a Bungalow Dwelling, e uent treatment system together with site access & all associated site works.

4. Removal of temporary accommodation of mobile home/caravan once new house has been constructed.

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: Donal Byrne, Managing Director of BrB Homes Tel. 094 9002931.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Clann na nGael GAA Club are applying to the above Authority for Planning Permission for development at Johnstown Demesne, Athlone. The Development will consist of the following:

1. To develop a 2nd Playing Pitch with a 1.4m high metal fence surrounding, and 1 No Set of 13.5m High Ball Stops

2. To erect 4 No 24m high poles to provide ood lighting of 350 Lux Standard

3. To erect a 45m seated stand

4. To construct a 2m wide walkway around the boundaries of the grounds, 950m length with Solar Lighting

5. A Sensory Garden.

Signed: Raymond Fallon (Secretary Clann na nGael)

That 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 €20.00, 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, Deeney Engineering and Planning Services, are applying to Roscommon County Council, on behalf of Cornelius Foley, for Retention Permission for retention of: Existing agricultural entrance to my land and all ancillary site works, at Cross South TD, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the oﬃces of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of a prescribed fee within a period of ﬁve weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Deeney Engineering and Planning Services. Tel 086 2503109

 ROOM TO LET in house in Cloverhill, Co. Roscommon: O.F.C.H. and solid fuel. WiFi, Fibreoptic. Secure parking. House sharing. Tel: 087 605 6974.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Alan and Catherine Beirne, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct dwelling house with domestic garage, connection to services and carry out all ancillary site development works at The Walk, Roscommon Town, Co Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces 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: 085 1299470. E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd., on behalf of our client: Noreen Fallon, intend to apply for Retention Permission for this site, located at: Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon, F42 TW35. The Development (Permission for Retention) consists of:

• Retention of alterations to the as constructed dwelling-house, which di er to those previously granted under PD references: PD 03116 & PD 03541. Alterations include, i) the removal of dormer windows to the front elevation & the installation of roof-lights in lieu of same; ii) the alteration to the height to the dwelling-house.

• Retention of alterations to the as constructed garage, comprising of revised elevations, to those granted previously under planning register reference’s: PD 03116 & PD 03541.

• Retention of alterations to the ‘site layout plan’ boundary, which di ers to that previously granted under planning register reference’s: PD 03116 & PD 03541.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, APC Architects & Engineers, intend to apply on behalf of Magdalena and Damian Kondonikolau for permission for development at this site: Arm Cashel, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of: Change of use from domestic garage to car diagnostics service.

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:

A: Cloontrask, Castlerea, F45WV81, Co. Roscommon. P: 094 9620712

SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED ONLINE

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

FURTHER INFORMATION / REVISED PLANS

Name of Applicant: Richard Jordan

Reference number of the application: PD/24/60188

The development applied for consisted of: Permission for the construction of internal farm roads on my lands, along with all other associated site works.

At: Corradrehid, Mongagh, & Granaghan (Martin) Townlands, Scramoge, Co. Roscommon.

Signiﬁcant Further Information / Revised Plans in relation to this application have been furnished to the planning authority and are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the oﬃces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information/ revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than two weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority. There will be no fee payable on a further submission/ observation if it is accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/ observation.

Signed:

Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965 www.mbeprojects.com

APPOINTMENTS

The Planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces 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: Conlon

Approx. 5 hours per night

Please apply to PO Box. 3113, Roscommon People, Abbey St., Roscommon.

THE DISTRICT COURT (AN CHUIRT DUICHE)

LICENSING ACTS, 1833 to 2011 THE LICENSING (IRELAND) ACT, 1833 SECTION 6

As Amended by Substitution in the First Schedule to the Courts (No. 2) Act, 1986 INTOXICATING LIQUOR ACT, 1960 SECTION 29

THE DISTRICT COURT RULES, 1997 ORDER 79

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF LICENCE

Gordon Murray – Applicant

An Bothar Rua, Main Street, Elphin, County Roscommon – Premises

TAKE NOTICE that Gordon Murray of Main Street, Elphin, County Roscommon intends to apply to the adjourned Annual Licensing District Court on 23rd day of October, 2024 at The Courthouse, Strokestown, County Roscommon for a Certi cate of Transfer entitling the Applicant to receive an Ordinary Seven Day Publican’s Licence in respect of the premises known An Bothar Rua, Main Street, Elphin, County Roscommon in the Court Area and District aforesaid.

Dated the 8th of October 2024

Signed: Dockery Solicitors Solicitors for the Applicant Main Street, Elphin County Roscommon

To: The Fire O cer Roscommon County Council Roscommon

To: The Superintendent, An Garda Siochana Roscommon

Consulting Engineering Ltd (Agent) on behalf of Noreen Fallon.

CRYAN

Colette

Beech Mount House, Lung Road, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary – 6th October 2023)

Don’t think of her as gone away, her journey’s just begun. Life holds so many facets this Earth is only one. Just think of her as resting from the sorrows and the tears. In a place of warmth and comfort where there are no days or years. Think how she must be wishing that we could know today, how nothing but our sadness can really pass away. And think of her as living in the hearts of those she touched, for nothing loved is ever lost and she was loved so much.

****

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

****

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, still very dear. Thank you for your loving and sharing, for giving and for caring. God bless and keep you until we meet again.

****

Loved and sadly missed by all her family and friends. Mass will be celebrated for Colette’s 1st Anniversary and her husband Dominic’s 5th Anniversary at the Cathedral of the Annunciation & St. Nathy, Ballaghaderreen on Sunday 27th October at 10 a.m.

., CUNNINGHAM

Michael & Kathleen

Fortﬁeld, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon (13th Anniversary and 8th Anniversary)

You began life together with little in the eyes of the world. “Five pounds and a few sheep.” With faith, love, respect and appreciation you connected each day as one. Bringing each of us to birth to share in your life and values. These values the world cannot give or no money can ever buy. For these we are eternally grateful to you.

Loved and remembered by your family and their families, by Aggie, your neighbours, relatives and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Four-Mile- House on Sunday, October 13th at 11am.

MULROONEY

Liam

Cloonlyon, Ballygar, Co. Galway Who passed away on the 16th of October 2023 (1st Anniversary)

One year ago today, we said goodbye to the ‘Best Husband, Daddy, Grandad, Brother, Uncle and friend that anyone could ask for’. Your absence has left a void that can never be lled, but your love and wisdom continue to guide us every day. Every time we walk through the kitchen door, we can’t help but feel the emptiness where you used to sit. Your presence is deeply missed. It breaks our hearts to not see you there. Though you are no longer with us in person, your spirit remains in our hearts. You are forever loved and missed. As we mark this First Anniversary of your passing, we celebrate the person you were. We remember your laughter, stories and singing too. We honour those memories and cherish the moments we shared together. We will strive to live in a way that would make you proud. Now we nd solace in those memories and the love you left behind for us. We will always celebrate your life, share your stories and keep your memory alive.

A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest, God broke our hearts, to prove to us, He only takes the best. So now we hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain,

To walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again. Rest in peace dear loved one, and thanks for all you’ve done. We pray that God has given you, the crown you’ve truly won.

Loved, remembered and sadly missed each day by his wife Nora and family.

Rest in peace Daddy

Liam’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday 19th of October at 7.30pm.

GALVIN

Dympna

Mount Mary, Ballygar (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Dympna who passed away on 10th October 2023

O’BEIRNE

Maureen Carnagh, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon (21st Anniversary)

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

R.I.P.

Memories are precious they don’t fade away

We remember you always not just today.

Always loved and remembered by her husband Colin, sons Ryan and Charlie and daughter Chloe.

Maureen

Always in our thoughts and prayers.

Loved and remembered everyday. Never forgotten by Maura and all the O’Beirne families.

Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church

Lecarrow on Sunday October 13th at 11.30 am.

KELLY Paul

Carrowdangan, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 15th October 2014 R.I.P. (10th Anniversary)

Deep are the memories, precious they will stay, of a wonderful Mother, Granny and friend to many.

Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear

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

Always remembered and sadly missed by his parents Pat and Mary, sisters Grace and Sandra, brothers-in-law Chris and Aaron, nieces Kara and Elina and extended family.

www.brianmurraystone.com

DEANE

Michael

Ballymacfrane, Donamon, Co. Roscommon Died on 27th August, 2024

We, the family of the late Michael Deane, who passed away suddenly on the 27th August, 2024 wish to express our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all who sympathised with us and supported us on the recent sad loss of our uncle.

We are particularly grateful to all our kind neighbours, relatives and friends who called to our home and helped us through our sad loss.

We are grateful, too, for all the messages of sympathy, Mass Cards and condolence messages on RIP.ie which we received and to everyone who travelled long distances, attended the Funeral Home, Requiem Mass and burial.

Thank you to our wonderful neighbours and friends who prepared Michael’s resting place with such attention, care and respect and to those who prepared the Church ahead of the ceremony.

We are eternally grateful to all the wonderful sta of the Roscommon Ambulance Service, Portiuncla Hospital and Roscommon Hospital – the exceptional care and kindness shown to our uncle through his short illness will forever be in our minds.

Thank you most sincerely to Aileen, Niki and Lauren and all the Homecare Team who visited Michael on a daily basis and also to the support from the Public Health Nurses.

Our heartfelt thanks to Pat and Gillian Smyth from Smyth’s Funeral Directors whose support and utmost professionalism across the few days was greatly appreciated by us all.

We are so grateful to Fr. Pat Hogan our Chief Celebrant who prayed with us during the family prayers and contributed to making the Funeral Mass so meaningful.

To Ann Corcoran and the choir for the beautiful singing and music during the Funeral Mass.

A special thanks to Maura Monaghan who called to Michael every Sunday morning with Holy Communion. Thanks to the management and sta of The Abbey Hotel in Roscommon for the beautiful meal and hospitality.

We would particularly like to thank Oran GAA who all paid their respects by taking part in the Guard of Honour both outside Smyth’s Funeral Home and Clooneycolgan Church.

Forever missed and loved by your sons Niall and Loman, daughters-in-law Sarah and Majella and your grandson Iarla. 1st Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday 11th October at 7.30 pm.

Anniversary Mass in St.

on Sunday, 13th October at 11am.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our deepest appreciation. The holy sacri ce of the mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Michael’s Months Mind Mass will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Clooneycolgan at 9.30 a.m. on Sunday 13th October, 2024.

In loving memory of Michael who died on 4th of November 2011 and Kathleen who died on the 18th of September 2016.

Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish

DIFFLEY

Mary (Marie)

Cagglekeenagh, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 5th October 2023. R.I.P. (1st Anniversary)

We, the family of the late Mary Di ey, wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to all who sympathised and supported us in our time of loss and to all who donated to the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice Palliative Care Services.

Thanks to all who called to the house, attended the removal, Requiem Mass and burial, those who travelled long distances, sent Mass Cards, sympathy cards, Perpetual Enrolments Masses, letters and thoughtful online condolences. A special thanks to our family, friends and neighbours who provided comfort and food at our home.

Thank you to the Ambulance Sta and all the Medical and Support Sta in Mullingar, Roscommon and Portiuncula Hospitals.

Sincere thanks to Dr. McLoughlin, her Team, the Nursing Sta and Palliative Care Team St. John’s Ward, Sr. Catherine, Hospital Chaplain, Portiuncula, for the care given to our Mam.

To all the wonderful hospice sta in Roscommon Hospice who looked after Mam so well, your kindness will never be forgotten.

We are forever grateful to our local Public Health Nurses, Cait, Deirdre and Mary for their support and care of our mother and to the weekend On-Call Nurses.

Thank you to Niamh, Mam’s Care Assistant for all your kindness.

Thank you to Fr. Eamon O’ Connor for all his support and the beautiful Funeral Mass.

Thanks to all who helped and participated in the Mass and prepared the Church on the day.

Thanks to Andrew Reynolds and Liz Leavy for the beautiful music and singing.

Our heartfelt thanks to the McHugh family whose support and professionalism across the few days was greatly appreciated by us all.

Thanks to the gravediggers, Paul and Adrian, for preparing Mam’s nal resting place.

As it would not be possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude to all who helped us in any way through this di cult time.

Mary’s 1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Carniska Church on Saturday 12th October 2024 at 12 noon

RYAN

Willie and Josie Beechwood (12th and 26th Anniversaries)

In remembrance of our loving parents,

They are not gone from us but gone before us

and

Ní

ach

Remembrance Mass

HILL (née Dullaghan) Mary

We, the family of the late Mary Hill would like to express our sincere and heartfelt gratitude for all the support and sympathy we received during our recent sad bereavement.

We would like to thank our neighbours, friends and colleagues and all those who sent Mass Cards, owers and condolences and those who attended Mary’s Funeral Mass and Burial.

A sincere thank you to Dr. Alex Robinson for her care of our Mother over the years. Thank you to Roscommon Palliative Care Team for their care and dedication to Mary in her nal weeks.

We would also like to express our thanks to Fr. Joe Fitzgerald and Fr. Raul Cino for the beautiful Funeral Mass and prayers at the graveside. Thank you to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their compassion and professionalism in taking care of the Funeral arrangements. Also to the gravediggers for their care in preparing Mary’s nal resting place.

And nally thank you to the Abbey Hotel for preparing food and refreshments after the Funeral.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our heartfelt gratitude. Mass has been o ered for the intentions of all.

O’DONOVAN

Seamus

“Parkhead”, Celtic Avenue, Roscommon 33rd Anniversary occurs on 10th October

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

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

McDERMOTT

Lena

Golf Links Road, Roscommon. (11th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Lena, who passed away on 7th October 2013

Always remembered by your family and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Friday, 11th October in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 11am.

KING Breda

Racecourse Road, Roscommon (12th Anniversary)

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

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

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

BISHOP Stephen Birthday Remembrance 17th October

Remembering you with a ection.

WALSH Kevin

Donamon, Roscommon (23rd Anniversary)

To the happy I am at peace, to the Faithful I have never left.

If you always think of me, I will never have gone. Remembered with a smile always. Forever in the hearts of your family.

Tony (32nd Anniversary) Beaty (5th Anniversary)

Abbey Street, Roscommon Town Who passed away 13th July 2024

You sowed the seeds of a beautiful friendship, and cherished memories grew.

Happy heavenly birthday, Duck.

Willie

Josie

imithe uainn atá siad

imithe romhainn

in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday 13th October, at 10am

KEANE

Christy Newtown, Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Christy who passed away on 5th October 2019

Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words we will never forget. When thoughts go back as they always do we treasure the memories we have of you. Forever missed by Marie, Declan, Aidan and family.

Anniversary Mass for Christy in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Friday 11th October at 7 pm.

FLANAGAN (nee Kelly)

Philomena Creevy Road, Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear mother Philomena.

A loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother too.

Each one of us thought the world of you, for us you always did your best, God grant your soul eternal rest.

Quickly and quietly came the call, without farewell you left us all. A sudden call from God on high, you had no chance to say goodbye. Without farewell you fell asleep, but memories of you we’ll always keep.

We did not know that morning, what sorrow the day would bring, when a heart of gold stopped beating, and we couldn’t do a thing. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone, for part of us went with you, the day God called you home. We never fail to think of you, we never cease to care, we only wish we could go home, and ﬁnd you waiting there.

Forever loved and missed by her family.

Mass o ered.

McLOUGHLIN (née McNeill) Bernie

Coolagarry, Curraghboy, Roscommon

Who sadly passed away on the 26th October 2022 (2nd Anniversary)

We think of you in silence, we often speak your name. All we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your resting place we visit and put ﬂowers there with care, but no one knows the heartache as we turn and leave you there.

Loved and missed by her husband John .

We had a wonderful Mother, one who never really grew old. Her smile was made of sunshine, and her heart was solid gold; Her eyes were as bright as shining stars, and in her cheeks fair roses you see. We had a wonderful mother, And that’s the way it will always be.

Loved and missed by sons Mark, Keith and Jonathan and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will be held at St Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy, on Sunday 13th October at 10am.

McLOUGHLIN

O’GRADY

Helen

Ballyleague, Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon (34th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Helen who passed away 15th October 1990. There are no goodbyes for us, wherever you are, you will forever be in our hearts.

Loved and missed by Donal, Onagh, Daniel, Michael Francis, Keelan and Senan. ––– oOo

In loving memory of a dear sister, Helen, who passed away on the 15th October 1990.

Beautiful memories silently kept. Of a sister we loved and will never forget.

Remembered with love by Kay, Maura, Nuala and their families.

Anniversary Mass in Ballyleague Church on Saturday 12th October at 7pm.

Michael, Mary and Bernadette (née McNeill) Coolagarry, Curraghboy, Roscommon

In loving memory of

Michael McLoughlin whose 1st Anniversary was on September 24th, 2024

Mary McLoughlin whose 1st Anniversary is on October 31st, 2024

Bernadette McLoughlin (née McNeill) whose 2nd Anniversary is on October 26th, 2024

All remembered with love and greatly missed by the McLoughlin & McNeill families.

We would like to sincerely thank all the wonderful friends, neighbours and relatives for their continued support during the past couple of years

Anniversary Mass will be held at St Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy, on Sunday 13th October at 10am.

THANKSGIVINGS

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE

For urgent need...

Our dear martyr and protector, Saint Expedite, you who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed. I beg you to intercede before the Holy Trinity, that by your grace my request will be granted. (Clearly express what you want and ask him to nd a way to get it to you.) May I receive your blessings and favours. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. If Saint Expedite grants your request, place fresh owers beside his statue in your home or in the church. Also place an ad in the newspaper thanking Saint Expedite, so that his name and fame will grow.

J.C.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Many thanks. M.C.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS

WHEN IN DIFFICULTY

O Divine Jesus, who said, “Ask and you shall receive”, I kneel at your feet.From whom shall I ask if not from you, whose heart is the source of all blessings. With a lively faith in you, I come to ask… (Share your petitions silently with the Sacred Heart) I admit I am most unworthy of your favours, Jesus, but this is not a reason for me to be discouraged. You are the God of mercies and you will not refuse a contrite heart. Look with pity on me, I beg you, and your compassionate Heart will nd in my weakness a motive for granting my request. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on me. M.H.

PODIATRIST

Tullys

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays.

● HSE Trained and Approved ● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatmeny

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

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist

Main Street, Castlerea

For appointment: Phone: (089) 4142233

• 20 years experience

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON –MOLLOYS PHARMACY

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle

Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed By Appointment Only –

Catriona

DIP CHFP

(Monday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

Electrician Available

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p0862553153 @gmail.com USEFUL SERVICES

FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ... WE DO ANYTHING From ﬁtting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath

• Fast Reliable Service

• Professional, Courteous Employees

• Trustworthy ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 9373445 087 9100477 www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

GARDENING

www.westsidegardening.ie

GARDENING: Lawns mowed and seeded, Leylandi and Laurel Hedge Cut and Shaped, Tree Felling, Fencing, Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal.

CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

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Presentation by Mary and Paul Byron to trainer JP Dempsey (right) after Le Grand Vert won the Paul Byron Shoes Handicap Steeplechase at Roscommon Races. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at a recent meeting of Roscommon Races were Jack, Mairead and Robbie Walsh. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Gerry Shanahan of QuinnBet presenting Gerard O’Leary with his prize as winning trainer after his horse Come On The Lads won The QuinnBet Claiming Race of €10,500 at Roscommon Races recently. Also pictured is Gerry Lillis. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at a recent meeting of Roscommon Races were Tom and Conor Cassidy and Darren Meares. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Rian and Senator Eugene Murphy enjoying an evening at Roscommon Races recently. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Shane Fleming of Roscommon Racecourse committee presenting Kate Harrington (winning owner) with the prize after her horse Loch Tay won The Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race at Roscommon Races. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races were Tommy, Jimmy, Cathy and Chrissie Farrell. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races were Conor Keane and jockey Robert Whearty. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

SportsPeople

Top trainers for Roscommon season ﬁnale

HORSES FOR COURSES

Racing on Monday opens with the Roscommon Racecourse Maiden for three-year-old plus colts and geldings over 7f with ten entered and second, with 18 entries, and third, with 67 entries are similar handicaps but open to ﬁllies as well. Racing continues with the Class Grass Maiden over 1m 2f for three-year-olds + has 20 entered.

The ﬁfth race is a conditions race again over 1m 2f and has thirteen entered. The penultimate race is a 1m 4f handicap sponsored by the working On-Course Vets with nineteen horses and the year’s racing at Lenebane closes with a 1m 4f handicap and forty entries. There are entries from the top trainers Dermot Weld, Joseph O’Brien, Johnny Murtagh, Gavin Cromwell and Jessica Harrington.

This weekend’s action Racing today (Thursday) is at Thurles on the ﬂat away at 1.55 pm and at Tramore over the jumps, off at 2.05 pm.

Tomorrow sees a national hunt meeting at Downpatrick at 2.15 pm, and there is racing on the all-weather under lights in Dundalk – stalls for the ﬁrst opening at 5.25 pm.

Saturday sees a national hunt meeting at Fairyhouse off at 2.15 pm and a flat card at Naas, the first of a two-day meeting, featuring the Irish EBF Brigid’s Pastures Stakes for fillies (off at 2 pm).

On Sunday there are two meetings, with the second day’s racing on the ﬂat in Naas at 1.05 pm, and over the jumps at Cork at 2 pm.

On Monday there is ﬂat racing in Roscommon with their ﬁnal meeting of 2024, an afternoon meeting, off at 1.20 pm.

Terrestrial television coverage starts Friday, with ITV covering ﬁve races from Newmarket includ-

Short putts

BOYLE

AGMs: The dates for the various AGMs have now been set. First up is the Men’s AGM on the 10th of October. The Ladies AGM is the following week on the 17th of October, with the overall Club Management AGM on the 8th of December.

All the AGMs take place in the clubhouse at 5 pm on the relevant Sunday. If anyone is interested in serving on the committees for next year, please get in touch with any committee member.

GOLFER OF THE YEAR: Lochlann Conboy received his Golfer of the Year trophy in a presentation at the clubhouse. He paid tribute to the many volunteers who have the club in good shape at present and singled out Men’s Captain Mark Whelan for his efforts this year.

KING HARMON: Keith Dowling won a very tightly contested King Harmon Final against Liam Whyte. The two men could not be separated after 18 holes and so the match went to the always nerve-racking ‘sudden death’ play-off. They proceeded to tie the 19th and 20th holes before Keith emerged victorious on their 21st hole.

He received the King Harmon Cup at a presentation in the clubhouse on Sunday evening. Keith paid tribute in particular to his opponent in the ﬁnal, Liam Whyte.

FIXTURES: October Betterball competition

– Round 2: October 11th-20th; Round 3: October 21st-27th.

RESULTS: VPAR competition on 29th of September: 1st Lochlann Conboy;

by Tom Red

ing the Group 1 Fillies Mile, along with three races from York and two jump races from Chepstow. Saturday sees coverage of ﬁve more races from Newmarket, including the Group 1 Darley Dewhurst Stakes, and three races from York.

Last Sunday Europe’s richest race, The Prix de l’Arc, took place at Longchamp, and Bluestocking repaid connections’ faith in supplementing her at a cost of €120k with Ralph Beckett’s charge winning at 11/2 under Rossa Ryan. The four-year-old beat the local Aventure and Aidan O’Brien’s Los Angeles by 1¼l and 1½l. O’Brien had some compensation as Camile Pissarro under Christophe Soumillon won the Group 1 Qatar Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere.

On Saturday, O’Brien enjoyed four winners with Ryan Moore aboard the ﬁrst three. The allconquering team got off to a ﬂying start as Illinois ran out a determined winner of the Group 2 Qatar Prix Chaudenay and soon doubled up, with the remarkable Kyprios continuing his domination of the staying division by reclaiming his crown in the Group 1 Prix du Cadran. Mount Kilimanjaro brought up the treble for Moore and O’Brien in the Haras de Bouquetot Criterium d’Automne. Moore got it wrong in the Group 1 Qatar Prix de Royallieu opting for Port Fairy, a 16/1 shot, as 25-1 shot Grateful rounded off an excellent afternoon’s work for Ballydoyle with Cristophe Soumillon aboard.

The Velka Pardubicka at Pardubice in the Czech Republic on Sunday is Europe’s best-known cross-country race. John McConnell is sending over Streets Of Doyen, and he will be joined with Gordon Elliott’s Coko Beach. Ben Harvey will ride Streets Of Doyen and Keith Donoghue takes the ride on Coko Beach over the four miles, two furlongs and 31 obstacles including banks, ditch-

2nd Niall O’Donohoe; 3rd Martin Sweeney. CAPTAIN’S OUTING: This year’s Men’s Captain’s Outing takes place this weekend (Saturday and Sunday). Golf on both days. Saturday’s golf will be in Westport GC with Sunday’s taking place in Castlebar.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

LADIES SCRAMBLE: Thank you to all who played in last week’s Ladies Wednesday Scramble. Well done to the winners. 1st were Gabrielle Madsen, Martina Sweeney and Veronica Sheeran with 28 nett. 2nd were Helen Martin, Eithne McGuire and Claire Grant with 30 nett. Thank you to everyone who has supported the Scramble since March – and keep an eye out for

es, rails, and the famous Taxis fence. Racing news

I was saddened to hear of the passing of Sligo trainer Billy Boyers at the age of 93. His base was in Rosses Point and he won the 1977 County Hurdle in Cheltenham with Kilcoleman in the black and white colours of Paul Clarke, one of the few horses trained west of the Shannon to win at the Festival. He also trained Sir Barry to win the 1980 Galway Plate.

The point-to-point season continues at Dartﬁeld

news of golf competitions going forward!

LYNCH CUP: Congrats to Gerry Emmett on winning the Lynch Cup. He won the ﬁnal against Austin McDermott. Thanks to all the players who played their matches on time.

SENIORS: The overall winner last Thursday was Seán McMonagle with a score of 38 points. Category one winner was Leo Kavanagh with 35 points; Category two was won by Joe Keville with 30 points and Category three was won by Michael Comerton with 34 points. The front nine was won by Liam O’Malley with 19 points and the back nine was won by Leo Mulvey with 18 points. Golf as usual every Thursday.

CASTLEREA

A presentation of prizes took place on Friday, 27th

Horse Museum and Heritage Centre, between Kilreekill and Loughrea, with the Galway Blazers meeting starting at 1 pm.

Competition time

The last winners of our free race tickets for 2025 are Brendan Greene (Lisacul), Mary Gordon (Castlerea), and John Egan (Ballinlough). That is our ﬁnal competition for 2024 – how time ﬂies! Thank you all for your support of the competition throughout the year!

of September at Castlerea Golf Club. Thanks to our sponsors. Winner of the Kearney’s Chemist event was Jimmy Mannion, with Keith McDermott 2nd. Cat. 1 winner was Liam Walsh; Peter Hester was Cat. 2 winner, while John Caulﬁeld won Cat. 3. Deirdre Hawkshaw won the ladies’ event with Mary Ward 2nd.

Beirne Keane Cup: 1st was Paul Claffey, with Emmet Patton 2nd. Cat. 1 winner was Patrick O’Connor; Cat. 2 Sean Naughton; Cat. 3 John Caulﬁeld.

Ladies winner was Juliet Kenny with Donna Hannelly 2nd.

Mulligan Matchplay: 1st Lorcan Cribbin; 2nd Sean Naughton; semi-ﬁnalists Jim McDonnell and Emmet Patton.

Connelly Cup winner was Alan Devine with Cian Gilmore 2nd. Cat. 1 Anto Kelly; Cat. 2 Peter Hester; Cat. 3 Micheal Moran. Ladies winner was Marie Baggott.

Tully’s Hotel competition: 1st Ray Joyce; 2nd Peter Hester; Cat. 1 Sean O’Connell; Cat. 2 Daryl Kelly; Cat. 3 Rory Kilkenny.

Hell’s Kitchen competition: 1st Mamie Creaton; 2nd Breege Cullen.

Ladies Club Competition: 1st Connie Gannon; 2nd Mary O’Gara.

Round Robin winners – June: Maeve Stenson; July: Mary McDermott; August: Julie Morahan.

ROSCOMMON

Marina Cribbon (36 pts) was the winner of the Comfy Cafe sponsored ladies 18-hole competition. 2nd was Patricia Donnelly with 36 pts. 3rd was Jackie Maxwell with 35 pts.

Ladies 9-hole competition winner was Monica Lennon with 20 pts; 2nd was Ann Gately with 19 pts, and 3rd was Ann Keogh.

Men’s Roscommon Herald sponsored 18-hole winner was Seamus O’Donghaile with 40 pts. Cat. 1 winner was Simon Walker with 36 pts. Cat. 2 winner was Darren Burgoyne with 37 pts, and Cat. 3 winner was Liam McNeill (40 pts).

(News from local golf clubs)

The famous Taxis fence, a 1.5m hedge with huge ditch of over 4m wide on landing side.

Boyle Golf Club: Keith Dowling pictured receiving the King Harmon trophy from Men’s Captain Mark Whelan.

Boyle Golf Club: Lochlann Conboy pictured receiving the Golfer Of The Year trophy from Men’s Captain Mark Whelan.

Halpin the hero for St Barry’s

King & Moffatt JFC ‘A’ semi-ﬁnal

St Barry’s pipped Ballinameen by a single point (1-11 to 2-7) in a very exciting County Junior Football semi-ﬁnal played in Strokestown on Friday night.

It was nip and tuck all the way. A converted penalty from Peter Keane for Ballinameen was the key score in the opening half. The sides were level at the break: Ballinameen 1-3 St Barry’s 0-6.

St Barry’s began the second half well, but were rocked back on their heels when Thomas McGrath scored a very well-worked goal for the Ballinameen men, putting them four clear.

In the ﬁnal quarter St Barry’s came back well. Emmet Burke scored an opportunist goal for the Tarmonbarry side to put them in contention again.

The sides exchanged points in the dying minutes and a draw looked the most likely outcome, but Pauric Halpin proved the match-winner with a converted free from 35 metres out in the 63rd minute. Final score: St Barry’s 1-11 Ballinameen 2-7.

The second semi-ﬁnal, between Roscommon Gaels and Clann na nGael, was postponed as a mark of respect to the late Cllr John Naughten, and will be played this coming weekend.

Player Proﬁle

Name: Callum Kerr

Team: U-16s

Underage GAA update

Padraig Pearses defeated Clann na nGael in the U-16 Division One football championship ﬁnal in Kiltoom by 2-9 to 2-4 last weekend.

In the Division Two decider the sides must play again after St Dominic’s and St Michael’s/St Ronan’s drew 1-12 each after extra-time.

In the U-14 Division Two football ﬁnal Kilbride defeated Oran/St Croan’s by 4-7 to 1-10 in an entertaining ﬁnal in Ballyforan.

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

Premier Cup success

Position: Right back/Left back

Three words that describe me:

Friendly, helpful, chatty

Skill strength: Two-footed

Skill weakness: Heading

Favourite team: Chelsea

Favourite player: Eden Hazard

Favourite Irish player: Seamus Coleman

Best stadium in the world:

Stamford Bridge

Messi or Ronaldo or neither: Messi

PlayStation or Xbox or neither: PlayStation

Favourite food: Beef Stir fry

Favourite lm: Hunt for the Wilderpeople

Favourite song: Unity by TheFatRat

Favourite book: Gone by Michael Grant

What makes me happy: Playing soccer with friends

Person I admire the most: My Dad

Why I play soccer: I nd it fun

Highlight of the season: Making it to a nal

Our boys Town 1 U-16 team fought back to beat league winners Skyvalley Rovers under the Lecarrow lights to win the 2024 Premier Cup. Despite dominating the game, Town found themselves two down.

After a ﬁne team move, Aaron Miley slotted home to cut the deﬁcit. Skyvalley went 3-1 ahead in the second half. Still, Town never gave up. Eoin Naughten set up Miley to net his second.

Captain Ethan Turkington curled home a cracking goal to level the game. Then, with time almost up, Eoin Naughten scored the winning goal to spark wild celebrations. A well deserved win. Well done to the lads and the coaches.

Saturday Night

Final

Best wishes to our boys U-18 team who play their Divisional Cup Final on Saturday in Lecarrow.

SFAI Cup

In the SFAI Cup, our boys

U-16 team welcome Castlebar Celtic to the Sports Park on Sunday afternoon. On Saturday afternoon, our boys U-14s are at home to Boyle Celtic in the SFAI Trophy. We wish both teams well this weekend.

U-11 Europa League semi-ﬁnals

Town 1 are away to Strokestown while Town 3 are in Ahascragh to play St Cuan’s. Good luck lads.

Well Done

The curtain has come down for our U-7s this season. The energy, enthusiasm and enjoyment has been great to see from our youngest members.

Credit to the coaches for their commitment this season and to the parents for their support on and off the pitch.

Social Media Channels Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube

Season Review

Provide feedback – positives, negatives and suggestions. Email info@roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie

Thank you.

Club Store

Shop now on roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie Our

The Hannon’s Hotel sponsored Roscommon Darts League 2024/25 starts on Friday, October 18th Round 1 fixtures are as follows: Dalton’s v Village Inn; Flanagan’s v Tower Bar; Sportsman’s v Holly Tree; An Bothar Rua v Cosy Bar; The Hollywood v McDermott’s. Meanwhile, Saturday, October 12th, sees an Open Day for youth darts players in Hannon’s Hotel. All are welcome and no experience is needed – on the day, you can find out what’s involved in playing the game and how you could play for your county. There will be food served, and the event has an 11 am start. The finals of The Hollywood Bar Super League will also take place this coming Saturday, October 12th, with a 9 pm start. Sixteen of the top players in the county and beyond will compete for the Cup and Shield titles. There will be food on the night, and all are welcome to what promises to be a great night of darts!

St Faithleach’s supporters pictured at last Saturday’s Roscommon SFC seminal between St Faithleach’s and Padraig Pearses. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Padraig Pearses manager Frank Canning (centre) and management colleagues head for the dressing room at half-time in Saturday’s Roscommon SFC seminal against St Faithleach’s. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Pictured is the Boys U-16 Town 1 team, Premier Cup winners.

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

Countdown to upcoming county ﬁnals

One of the reasons people love sport is because of its unpredictability… to ﬂip a familiar phrase, it’s the hope that inspires you.

While both clubs were entitled to credibly aspire to a serious title tilt at the start of the season, few would have predicted a Padraig PearsesRoscommon Gaels County Senior Football ﬁnal… mainly because nobody could really overlook the claims of St Brigid’s.

But that’s where we are… and it’s exciting! Once Pearses so impressively edged past the Kiltoom kingpins, the title race was thrown open.

Last weekend, Pearses maintained their momentum and comfortably accounted for St Faithleach’s. In the other semi-ﬁnal, Roscommon Gaels and Michael Glaveys played out a thriller.

I wasn’t at the game, as we were in Dublin over the weekend (see page 6), but by all accounts this was a terrific encounter. The Gaels trailed by four late on, only to finish with a flurry of scores and secure an extra-time showdown.

In extra-time, it was nip and tuck for a while, before Roscommon Gaels pulled away in the closing minutes to deﬂate a very gallant Michael Glaveys and claim a place in the ﬁnal.

In the Intermediate Football Championship meanwhile, Elphin and Strokestown set up a fascinating local derby showdown!

Musings on the peerless Paul McGrath

Sometimes, a book (or a TV series maybe) is so good… you just don’t want to reach the end. Avid readers will know the signs… you’re loving the book so much that you occasionally check to see how many pages are left, breathing a sigh of relief if it materialises there’s still more than half the book to go. As you get closer to the end, there’s the dread of knowing… that you’re closer to the end.

I think the reason I still haven’t read Paul McGrath’s autobiography – (‘Back from the

Local duo are Historic Forestry Champions!

Driver Walter Burke from Williamstown and navigator Bobby Cooper from Castlerea

ons, having securing maximum points in each round throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Brink’, 2017), written with Vincent Hogan – is because I don’t want to get to the end of it! (The book has been described as a classic of the genre, but for now it rests unread amongst my collection).

McGrath is one of my favourite players of all time. As such, I was delighted to see Sky Sports present a short documentary on him last weekend. While the programme’s primary ‘angle’ was on McGrath becoming the ﬁrst PFA Players’ Player of the Year of the Premier League era (19921993), the former Republic of Ireland international was also interviewed about his career highlights and his exit from Manchester United. Paul also spoke very movingly about the alcohol addiction (and injuries) he was battling while still performing brilliantly against the best players in the world.

Comans Club swimmers

– great start to the season

Huge congratulations to our talented Comans Club swimmers (aged 10-12) who made an incredible start to the season at their ﬁrst gala! From personal bests to wristbands, every swimmer showed tremendous improvement and determination. Let’s celebrate these highlights:

Liam Conneally (U11): Proved his hard work is paying off with an impressive 16-second drop in his 100 IM and another 6 seconds off his 50 back!

Emily Creighton (U10): Swam her way to a B time wristband in the 100 IM and raced a speedy 50 ﬂy!

Laragh O’Rourke (U10): Fantastic swims, coming just split seconds away from wristbands in both 100 IM and 50 back, and also shone in the 50 ﬂy.

Aisling McNulty (U10): Dominated the 50 ﬂy and 100 IM with strong performances!

Leon Konieczka (U10): Smashed the A time in the 100 IM with a rapid 1:34, and earned a wristband with 7 seconds off his 50 back!

Bobby Flynn (U11): Blew away the competition, knocking 11 seconds off his 50 back for a huge PB.

Ali Farrell (U12): Claimed wristbands in both 50 ﬂy and 100 back!

Moya Flynn (U12): Dropped an incredible 8 seconds in her 200 IM for a wristband and came just 0.18 seconds shy of a B time in the 50 ﬂy.

Faye Kelly (U12): Secured wristbands in 50 ﬂy and 100 IM with excellent swims!

Doireann Lally (U12): Achieved personal bests in both the 100 IM and 100 back! Congrats to all our swimmers on such a positive and successful start to the season! We’re excited to see what’s next!

One could write a book about the peerless McGrath (one could even read the acclaimed one referred to earlier), but I’ve often felt his brilliance can be summed up by two slightly quirky points.

One: In the 1990 World Cup, Paul McGrath was selected on the Team of the Tournament by football writers from across the world. But here’s the fascinating aspect: the world class defender was selected in midﬁeld (where Jack Charlton unexpectedly played him). So here was an injuryprone centre-half with addiction issues being played out of position against the world’s elite players… and he gets chosen on the Team of the Tournament.

Two: While his career at Manchester United and Aston Villa has been well documented (that and his superb displays in an Ireland jersey), McGrath, for all his knee trouble, played club

football in England until he was 38 or so. When he moved from Villa to Derby County, and later to Shefﬁeld United, I used to check the player ratings which were a popular feature of the English tabloid papers at the time. Week after week after week, McGrath was his team’s best player, and frequently he was man of the match. He was outstanding to the end.

Paul McGrath, in addition to being a magniﬁcent warrior on the pitch, has always come across as a gentleman. He has had to overcome many challenges in his life. It was good to see him in such good form in the Sky documentary. Young football fans today may not realise how great McGrath was, but the fact that an injury-ravaged defender with addiction issues could perform to a level where he was voted footballer of the year by his peers marks out just how special he was.

Comans Club swimmers (aged 10-12) made an incredible start to the season at their ﬁrst gala!

pictured after recently being crowned the 2024 Historic Forestry Rally Champi-

SportsPeople

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Senior women’s team win Plate Final

Creggs senior women’s rugby team, who only reformed last year, won their ﬁrst piece of silverware since the late 1990s when winning the Invitational Plate against Galwegians Second XV on a scoreline of 40-14 in a sunny Dunmore on Sunday afternoon.

MEN’S SECONDS: Ballinasloe 36 Creggs 31. Creggs 2nds turned in a strong second-half display to gain two losing bonus points from Sunday’s J1B league ﬁxture played in perfect conditions at Ballinasloe RFC’s grounds. This should leave them well placed as they face into three home games, the ﬁrst of which is against Ballyhaunis on Saturday, October 19th.

BOYS U-17s: Creggs U-17 boys team ﬁnally got their season underway when they welcomed Galwegians to Creggs. Creggs won 75-33 in a try-fest.

BOYS U-16s: On Saturday morning Creggs Boys U-16s travelled to Athlone to play Buccaneers in round 3 of the U-16 boys league, Creggs winning by ten points. Next up is a home game this weekend against Ballina. Final score: Creggs 20 Buccaneers 10.

BOYS U-15s: Creggs U-15 boys travelled to Sligo for their ﬁrst league game of the season. Final score: Sligo 43 Creggs 26.

BOYS U-14s: On a sunny Sunday in Galway Creggs took on Galwegians in a cracking encounter. Full-time score: Galwegians 21 Creggs 45. A terriﬁc win on the road for the lads who play Carrick-on-Shannon at home this Sunday.

BUCCANEERS RFC

Cashel condemn Buccs to third heavy loss

Buccaneers shipped a third heavy defeat when they went down 43-0 to Cashel in their Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A match at Dubarry Park on Saturday. Although further depleted through injuries Buccs were very much in the contest until halftime. But the physically stronger visitors dictated the second spell as they secured a bonus point victory that keeps them in joint leadership of the league table.

SECONDS: Our Seconds suffered a near replica defeat in their second outing in the Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior 1A League away to Ballina with the Mayo club coming out on top by 47-7 on Sunday.

U-20s: Our U-20s commence their JP Fanagan Leinster Premier 2 League with a tough test away to St Mary’s College on Sunday. This Pool B encounter kicks off in Templeville Road at 3 pm. This young Buccs squad have been slowly coming together under the guidance of Darin Classen, Niall Moran and Tommy Conlon and they will have been boosted by their clearcut win over Galway University last time out.

St Mary’s will be a higher level and a stiffer chal-

lenge, but if the young Pirates continue to progress and improve, then a surprise is achievable.

SECONDS THIS WEEKEND: After two tough away games at the start of the Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior 1A League, Buccaneers Seconds finally have a home fixture when they entertain Castlebar in Athlone on Saturday night. This floodlit encounter has a 7 pm kick-off under the Dubarry Park floodlights and Buccs will be hoping to get some points on the board.

CONGRATS DARRAGH: Congratulations to Darragh Murray who capped his ﬁrst appearance for Emerging Ireland by scoring a try in their victory over the Pumas in South Africa.

FASHION SHOW: Tickets are now on sale for Buccaneers Fashion Show, hosted by Mandy Maher Catwalk, which takes place in Athlone’s Radisson Blu Hotel on Wednesday, October 30th. Contact Geraldine at 086 1732711 for tickets for what promises to be a highly fashionable event. Tickets (€30) are also on sale at Carraig Donn (Golden Island) and The Bounty.

THE LATE MARY O’ROURKE: Deepest sympathy is extended to Feargal and Aengus O’Rourke and all the wider family on the passing

The late Mary O’Rourke pictured turning the rst sod at what is now Dubarry Park and The Bounty. Club secretary Paul Connellan is also pictured.

Orrin Burgess is presented with the Michael Moore Car Sales Man of the Match award by Buccaneers President Lorna Stuart Trainor.

of their mother, Mary O’Rourke. She was a genuine supporter of the club, primarily in the days of Athlone RFC for whom her late husband Enda was

the club was planning the excellent facilities that are now at Dubarry Park (and she turned the ﬁrst sod there).

Her legacy is, of course, vastly greater elsewhere, and for which she will be rightly remembered. May she be granted eternal rest.

GIRLS U-14s: Creggs Girls U-14s travelled to Buccaneers RFC on a wet Saturday evening. Buccs won

21-15. Well done girls on some nice rugby and great spirit in playing to the very end.

BOYS U-13s: Creggs U-13 boys team welcomed Portumna RFC to Creggs for their third league game

of the season. Portumna won 19-5. The U-13 squad are scheduled to be away to Gort this weekend.

Creggs U-17 boys team.

The Creggs men’s seconds team.

The Creggs women’s senior team… Invitational Plate winners last weekend.

Last-gasp Gaels deny Glaveys in a thriller

Hodson Bay Hotel Group

Roscommon SFC semi-final

Roscommon Gaels 1-19 Michael Glaveys 3-9 (after extra-time)

< SEAMUS DUKE

If excitement and drama were in short supply in last Saturday’s Roscommon SFC semi-ﬁnal, Sunday’s cracker certainly compensated. In ideal weather conditions, Roscommon Gaels and Michael Glaveys went at each other hammer and tongs from the opening exchanges. It resulted in a thriller, the outcome of which was only decided in the ﬁnal minutes of extra-time.

The Gaels looked in control early in the contest but after Glaveys struck for their ﬁrst goal in the 20th minute the contest was on a knife-edge right to the end. In fact it looked like Glaveys would win it when they led by four points with just seven minutes of normal time remaining. But the town team found reserves of stamina from somewhere and kicked four points without reply to send the game into extra-time. In that extra-time period Glaveys seemed to run out of steam and the Gaels ﬁnished strongly to get over the line and qualify for a shot at the title.

Glaveys’ ability to get goals had seen them forge ahead again in extra-time, but the Gaels stuck to their task and in the end they won by a ﬂattering fourpoint margin.

Ryan Conlon was the undoubted star of the opening half. The young

Roscommon Gaels half-forward kicked ﬁve superb points from play. By the 18th minute that purple scoring patch had helped his team into a 0-6 to 0-2 lead.

But when a misplaced pass went straight to Cathal Heneghan two minutes later, the county star planted the ball in the Gaels’ net and it was game on after that. Heneghan was superb – as were Darragh Heneghan and Andy Glennon – as Glaveys looked dangerous every time they attacked. At half-time Roscommon Gaels were 0-8 to 1-4 in front.

The sides were level three times in the third quarter. Then in the 46th minute goalkeeper Sean Burke was on target with a long-range free. Two minutes later the ball was in the Gaels net again after great work from Darragh and Cathal Heneghan, Andy Glennon ﬁnishing the move.

It was looking good for Glaveys at that stage but the Gaels came with a dramatic late rally to keep their hopes alive. Led by the superb Tim Lambe, John McManus and John McGuinness, Mark Dowd’s men scored four points in a row from Ryan Conlon (a free), Mark Purcell (45) and two majestic efforts from Lambe. The score at the end of normal time was Roscommon Gaels 0-15 Michael Glaveys 2-9.

Glaveys struck for goal number three in the ﬁrst period of extra-time, courtesy of Robert Heneghan, but the Gaels were hanging on grimly and points from McGuinness and Peter Gillooly reduced the margin to just one. Glaveys wasted a glorious chance

for a fourth goal when a long-range pass went astray in the 68th minute. The Gaels finally pulled away in the second period of extra-time with points from sub Kieran Kilcline and a long-range free from Mark Purcell. The game was ended as a contest in the final minute when Peter Gillooly raced clear and shot low past Sean Burke to seal a final place and set up a repeat of the 2019 decider against Padraig Pearses.

Ryan Conlon and Tim Lambe were outstanding for the Gaels, while John McManus, John McGuinness, Mark Purcell and Mark Healy were also superb.

Cathal Heneghan was outstanding for a gallant Glaveys, while Shane O’Malley, Darragh Heneghan, Robert Heneghan, Andy Glennon and Caoileann Fitzmaurice were also prominent.

In the final analysis the Gaels looked marginally fitter and sharper when it came down to those crucial final few minutes. It promises to be a cracking county final on Sunday week.

Roscommon Gaels: James Featherstone; Cathal Dineen, James Connolly, Senan Lambe; Tim Lambe (0-2), John McManus, Ronan Gleeson; Mark Purcell (0-2, 1 f, 1 ’45), Mark Healy; Cian Connolly, Scott Oates, Ryan Conlon (0-6, 1 free); John McGuinness (0-3, 1 mark), Peter Gillooly (1-3, 3 frees), Richard Walsh (0-3, 2 frees), Subs: Kieran Kilcline (0-1) for Walsh (39), Conor Grogan for Gleeson (50), Joey O’Malley for Dineen (e/t), Richard Walsh for Oates (e/t).

Michael Glavey’s: Sean Burke (0-1 free); Conor Donellan, Shane O’Malley, David Frayne; Luke Ruane, Liam Cregg, Daniel Hagney; Caoileann Fitzmaurice, Conor Hussey; Robert Heneghan (1-1), Cathal Heneghan (1-2), Dylan Ruane (0-2, 1 free); Darragh Heneghan (0-2), Andy Glennon (1-1), Neil Morris. Subs: Niall Heneghan for Hagney (43),

Referee: Jimmy Donoghue.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Tim Lambe (Roscommon Gaels)

Elphin and Strokestown set up derby final

John Keane & Sons IFC semi-finals Elphin 1-7 Éire Óg 0-7

Elphin have made it through to the IFC ﬁnal, but it was not before they were given a stern test by last year’s ﬁnalists in Frenchpark on Sunday last.

In such a low-scoring match a goal was always going to be a big score and so it proved as Evan Gunn’s strike in the 17th minute of the ﬁrst half proved decisive.

Conor Cox was always going to be a crucial presence for Éire Óg, however while the county star was excellent from the placed ball he was well held by the Elphin defence and didn’t score from play. Managing to curtail his impact was a major contributory factor in Elphin’s win.

That Elphin goal after a ﬁne team move helped them into a 1-3 to 0-4 half-time lead. With Niall Higgins outstanding and Fintan Cregg, Nessan Lenihan and Luke Mollohan very prominent, Nigel Dineen’s men held on for a hard-fought win.

their goal from a penalty awarded in the 17th minute. Eamon Bannon was fouled and Gearoid Ennis converted the spot-kick.

Strokestown hit back just before halftime with a fine team move that was finished to the net by Fionn Cusack. Fuerty had a purple patch in the third quarter when they scored four points without reply to cut the deficit to a point.

Strokestown ﬁnished very strongly and with Diarmuid McGann and Shane McGinley outstanding, they began to pull away. McGinley’s converted penalty sealed the win in injury-time.

Éire Óg: Colm Lavin; Niall Flanagan, Denis Barron, Aonghus McDonagh; James McGreal, Jarlath Lavin, Eoghan Walsh; Christy Scally, Brian

Enda

For Pat Doory’s men, Denis Barron, Conor Cox, Aonghus McDonagh and Christy Scally were most prominent. Elphin: Aaron Brady; Alex Gleeson, Niall Higgins, Enda Killoran; Shane Beirne, Martin McCaffrey, Gavin Murray; Nessan Lenehan, Luke Mollahan (0-1); Damien Cregg, Shane Killoran, Gerry Cregg; Evan Gunn (1-1), Fintan Cregg (0-5, 4 frees), Frankie Cregg. Subs: Conor Lenihan for G Murray (h/t), John Finnerty for D Cregg (41), Rossa Brennan-Kelly for G Cregg (52), Sam O’Rourke for Frankie Cregg (62).

3 frees), Jason Doory. Subs: Declan Flanagan for Cahill (39), Mark Finan for Creaton

Strokestown 2-17 Fuerty 1-9

The ﬁnal margin of victory ﬂatters Strokestown as with 15 minutes to go

there was only one point between the teams in Kiltoom.

However, a return of 1-7 without reply in the ﬁnal quarter saw the 2022 senior champions into the intermediate decider against neighbours Elphin later this month. Strokestown led by 1-7 to 1-4 at half-time. Fuerty scored

Strokestown: Niall Curley; David Neary, Dylan Owens, Timmy Gibbons; Ciaran Regan (0-2), Keith Murphy, Dillon Casey; Fionn Cusack (1-0), Jack Beirne; Adam Tighe, Colm Compton (0-2), Luke Kelly; Colm Neary, Diarmuid McGann (0-7, 3 frees), Shane McGinley (1-3, 1-0 pen, 1 ’45). Subs: Kevin Finn (0-2, frees) for Kelly (35), Evan Moran for Beirne (40), Cathal Lavin (0-1) for Tighe (56). Fuerty: Tom Bannon; Darragh Heavey, Philip Neilan, Tadhg Lyons; Eoin Ward, Ben McGahon, Mark Ward (0-1, free); Niall Keenan, Naoise Coyle; Cian Murray (0-2), Oisin Lyons (0-2), Eamon Bannon; Cathal Lavin, Gearoid Ennis (1-4, 1-0 pen, 2 frees, 1 ’45), Jack McGahon. Subs: Peter Kellehan for Heavey (h/t), Darragh Mullen for Keenan (h/t), Shane McAndrew for J McGahon (41), Cathal Crehan for E Bannon (61), Mossy Tiernan for O Lyons (63).

Referee: Aaron Clogher.

Dylan Connolly for L Ruane (50), Pat Morris for N Heneghan (e/t), Seamus Burke for Cregg (e/t), Daniel Hagney for C Heneghan (e/t).

Peter Gillooly… scored 1-3 for Roscommon Gaels, including the late ‘insurance goal’. File pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Greene;

Crawley (0-1), Joseph Hester (01), Ronan Cahill; Liam Creaton, Conor Cox (0-5,

(48), Ross Nolan for Crawley (58).

Action from Éire Óg v Elphin last weekend: Elphin’s Frankie Cregg challenges Éire Óg’s Eoghan Walsh. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

from last Saturday’s

semi-ﬁnal between St Faithleach’s and Padraig

Pearses ease into final as St Faithleach’s fail to ignite

Hodson Bay Hotel Group

Roscommon SFC semi-final

Padraig Pearses 1-9

St Faithleach’s 0-3

< SEAMUS DUKE

The fact that this Roscommon Senior Football semi-ﬁnal was a very poor game won’t bother Padraig Pearses, given that they easily swept aside the challenge of St Faithleach’s to qualify for the county ﬁnal on Sunday week.

The conditions at Dr Hyde Park last Saturday certainly didn’t help facilitate good football as a very strong wind blew directly downﬁeld towards the town goal. But in truth, St Faithleach’s

never raised a gallop. In fact they weren’t allowed to do so by a very well drilled Pearses outﬁt.

Remarkably, the St Faithleach’s attacking stars Ciarán and Diarmuid Murtagh were held scoreless. The Ballyleague club’s return of just two points (one deep into injury-time) when playing with the elements in the second half tells its own story. Pearses were in control from the opening exchanges. They had three points on the board after ﬁve minutes, with Eoin Colleran (free), Paul Carey and the very impressive Declan Kenny the scorers.

At that stage, it looked like Frank Canning’s men were going to run riot. However, the pace dropped after that.

Although St Faithleach’s were enjoying a little bit more possession than earlier, they weren’t making any inroads on the Pearses defence. Adam McGreal pointed a mark from distance in the 10th minute. The Pearses’ scoring rate slowed, but when Jack Tumulty was on target in the 19th minute they were ﬁve points ahead.

For their part, St Faithleach’s were restricted to just a few half-chances. Kevin Farrell got their only score of the half in the 22nd minute, Paul Carey responding with a pointed free in the 29th minute. A forgettable half ended with Pearses ahead by 0-6 to 0-1.

There was a ﬂeeting glimpse of what might have been on another day for St Faithleach’s early in the second half. Darren Nerney pointed in the 33rd minute and two minutes later Diarmuid Murtagh had a half-chance of a goal but the ball was cleared by the Pearses defence.

That was as good as it got for St Faithleach’s as Pearses assumed control once again. In the 43rd minute, Carey pointed from play into the wind. Three minutes later came the score that settled the issue as Declan Kenny made an incisive run through the heart of the St Faithleach’s defence before shooting low and hard past Alan Manning for the only goal of the game.

A Lorcan Daly point from play and another free from Paul Carey completed the agony for St Faithleach’s who could only manage a 64th minute point from Jonathan Hussey to add to their meagre total.

For St Faithleach’s, it was a day they will want to forget in a hurry. None of the swashbuckling football that we saw against Clann na nGael in the quarterﬁnal was in evidence last Saturday in

Hyde Park. Connell Kennelly, Mikey Dunne and Ciarán Murtagh were probably their best players on the day. Padraig Pearses will be delighted with their emphatic win. Despite the poor quality of the game, it is clear that they will be extremely hard to beat in the decider. They are an excellent championship team with an ideal blend of youth and experience, the type of ingredients a team needs on the big day. They have good players on every line of the ﬁeld and a strong bench too.

Declan Kenny, who has been having a great championship, was again their stand-out performer. Niall Carty, Niall Daly, Paul Carey, Conor Daly and substitute Sean Canning were also excellent on the day.

Padraig Pearses: Paul Whelan; Gavin Downey, Niall Carty, David Murray; Declan Kenny (1-1), Caelim Keogh, Conor Harley; Conor Ryan, Niall Daly; Conor Daly, Ronan Daly, Adam McGreal (0-1, mark); Eoin Colleran (0-1, free), Paul Carey (0-4, 3 frees),

Jack Tumulty (0-1). Subs used: Sean Canning for Colleran (44), Lorcan Daly (0-1) for Harley (49), Jack Nevin for Tumulty (54), Conor Lohan for Downey (54), Mark Richardson for McGreal (57).

St Faithleach’s: Alan Manning; Kevin Farrell (0-1), Paddy Farrell, Karl Nerney; James Browne, Darren Nerney (0-1), Mikey Dunne; Connell Kennelly, Cian Glennon; Jonathan Hussey, Ciarán Murtagh, Cathal Gunn; Diarmuid Murtagh, Dave Rooney, James Murray. Subs used: Brian Murtagh for J Hussey (45), David Harrison for Dunne (47), Aidan Dooney for Rooney (51), Darragh Hussey for Manning (52), Jonathan Hussey (0-) for Murray (55). Referee: Ian Monaghan.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Action

Roscommon SFC

Pearses. Connell Kennelly (St Faithleach’s) is faced by a very focussed Niall Daly of Padraig Pearses. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Declan Kenny (Padraig Pearses)

Action from last Saturday’s Roscommon SFC semi-ﬁnal between St Faithleach’s and Padraig Pearses. Jonathan Hussey (St Faithleach’s) looks set to elude Jack Tumulty and Adam McGreal. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Brendan Murray, Noel Dolan and Andrew Goode enjoying a hot drink at half-time in last Saturday’s Roscommon SFC semi-ﬁnal between St Faithleach’s and Padraig Pearses. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell