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12 November 2021

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Celebrations at the final whistle after Roscommon Gaels defeated Boyle in the County Minor Football final at Hyde Park on Sunday. Photo: Mick McCormack

Festival to launch new Square < DAN DOONER

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lic Realm Enhancement works has yet been confirmed, it is believed that the north side of the Square will be ready to host the festival which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, December 11th and 12th. The Christmas event is a combined venture between Roscommon County

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I was injured in a road traffic accident about 12 months ago. I went to my GP at the time and she prescribed painkillers for me. Unfortunately I have been left with lingering pain and I am now attending a physiotherapist for physiotherapy which is providing some pain relief. My friend has advised me to talk to my solicitor but I feel that it is too late to now consider looking for compensation for my injuries. Please advise me. Under the Statute of Limitations one normally has two years from the date of accident to bring a compensation claim for personal injuries. This differs in the case of an injured child in that ‘limitation period’ does not start to run until the child reaches eighteen years old i.e. a child may bring a claim for injuries sustained as a child up until their 20th birthday. It is not uncommon for people to bring compensation claims for injuries sustained in an accident until many months after the accident. On occasion, one may not fully appreciate the true and full extent of injuries sustained until several weeks after the accident. If you believe that your injuries were sustained as a result of the negligence of another person then I would suggest that you immediately contact your solicitor who will fully advise you of your rights. It is imperative that you do so without delay. Byrne Carolan Cunningham personal injury law solicitors would be happy to speak to you if you require further advice or clarification.

Bleary-eyed Boris, Sleepy Joe, Eamon Ryan, Susan Boyle and Rod Stewart... I’ve always had a soft spot for Scotland! Me too! Kenny Dalglish, Billy Connolly, Sir William Wallace! That poet, Robert Burns! Yes! I was in his house once! Really? I knew you were getting on, but are you that old? What was he like? Not when he was alive! It’s been made CYCLING ACCIDENT into a tourist attraction! Okay! Then there’s Jackie Stewart, Sir If youAlex were Ferguson, involved in aSheena cycling Easton, Robbie accident contact Coltrane… Byrne Easton! CarolanOh come on, what Sheena Cunningham about THESolicitors greatest Scottish singer! Susan Boyle? NO! Rod Stewart! Anyways, the point is, WE have a soft spot for Scotland! Yes! But why are we talking about Scotland? Well, I was just glad to see Scotland getting the big gig over the past week or so. There are thousands of people in Glasgow for Cop26! Great for their economy! Oh yeah...what a turnout! Mind you, the atmosphere’s not great… Even with thousands of people from all over the world gathered in the one city? Yep, atmosphere not great! Oh dear. So what’s it all about? They’re trying to save the world! The Scots? No, not just the Scots! The international community! Cop26 is all about the fight against climate change. That’s what I thought! (They pause, initially to draw breath,

ing in common with Boris and Joe! Actually he has… What? You may recall that Sleepy Joe was caught napping at Cop26... Okay... And Bleary-eyed Boris was also photographed grabbing 40 winks… Or (copping) 26 winks... Well our own Eamon started that trend when he fell asleep in the Dáil last year! He denies it! By the way, didn’t the world leaders and their entourages arrive in Scotland in private jets? And then travel to the conference centre in big limos? I know… So doesn’t that mean... ...that they’re pumping thousands of tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere! That’s not good! Hypocrisy! I know…that’s what I mean…not a good atmosphere!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

then to hum Rod Stewart’s greatest hits) So that’s it then...good old Bonnie Scotland! Well at least it’s a novelty to see so many political superstars under the one roof! Are we talking about the Dáil now… or are we still on Cop26? Cop26! Good! Yeah, I saw Boris Johnson and Joe Biden and… Eamon Ryan too! I thought he couldn’t go! No, he made it in the end! He’s not a world leader, he has noth-

(They pause to ponder if the Editor will permit such a weak effort at wordplay) Anyways, big issues in fairness... climate change, billions of euro, the intransigence of some of the world’s biggest countries, conflicting scientific opinion, protestors, the very fate of the world...we need to take these matters seriously. You need to stop dumbing down! Do you have any pressing questions AT ALL? Eh... Well? What was Robert Burns’ house like?

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

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PIC OF THE WEEK: Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, Mayo-Roscommon Hospice CEO Martina Jennings, and Deputy Frank Feighan watch a video message from US President Joe Biden during the official opening ceremony for the new Roscommon Hospice on Friday. Photo: Conor McKeown

What we liked… It was a great day for the county on Friday with the official opening of the Roscommon Palliative Care Unit in Roscommon Town. Well done to Mayo-Roscommon Hospice and all involved with this magnificent project over the years.

What we didn’t like… The Roscommon Masters GAA team were unlucky to lose Saturday’s All-Ireland Plate Final, being defeated by Cavan by a single point.

What PEOPLE are talking about… The UN’s Cop26 conference in Glasgow; Covid certs; The Northern Ireland Protocol saga; West Ham’s win over Liverpool and Manchester City’s dominance of the Manchester derby; Looking ahead to Republic of Ireland v Portugal; The opening of the new Roscommon Hospice Unit...

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

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Covid tests still only ‘by appointment’

Advertorial

HSE Community Healthcare West has confirmed that all requests for Covid-19 tests are by appointment only via the self-referral online portal https://covid19test.healthservice.ie/ hse-self-referral/, and GP referrals. The HSE said: “We ask you to book online in advance and an appointment will be allocated at the test site of your choice. Due to the high numbers of people currently requesting Covid tests, walk-ins cannot be facilitated”. Covid-19 test centres are located at Castlerea Testing Centre, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon; Galway Airport Testing Centre, and at MacHale Park Testing Centre, Castlebar, Co. Mayo.

Bishop Francis Duffy is new Archbishop of Tuam

His Holiness Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Francis Duffy, Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnois, as the new Archbishop of Tuam. The news of this appointment was confirmed yesterday (Wednesday). On Wednesday, Archbishop-elect Duffy concelebrated Mass in the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Tuam, with His Excellency Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland; and Archbishop Michael Neary, Archbishop of Tuam.

Supporters pictured at Sunday’s Roscommon Minor (U-17) Football final at Dr Hyde Park, in which Roscommon Gaels defeated Boyle. Photo: Mick McCormack

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Career opportunities ‘Right at Home’ in Roscommon town!

‘Right at Home’, specialists in care, operates under Home and Community Care Ireland, and are now looking for care assistants to join its office on the Golf Links Road in Roscommon town. Serving the counties of Roscommon, Galway and Mayo, Right at Home opened its local office in November of last year. Offering part-time, full-time, and flexible hours at competitive rates, Right at Home is HSE-approved and provides services such as Home Support for Older People, people with disabilities, and those with medical conditions such as Alzheimers/Dementia, Osteoarthritis, diabetes, heart disease and those recovering from stroke and other disorders. The company offers care to people over the age of 65 who may need support to continue living in the comfort of their own home or those who have returned home following a hospital stay. There are also care supports for those under the age of 65, who have early onset dementia or a disability. Right at Home is aimed at helping clients to remain as independent as possible while receiving support within their own communities. To find out more about Right at Home’s career opportunities or wide range of care services, contact the Roscommon office on 090-6409084.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

NewsPeople

Christmas Festival to celebrate new Square < DAN DOONER

Plans are in place for a two-day Christmas Festival in Roscommon town next month to mark the completion of the new-look Square following its €9.2 million makeover. While no date for the completion of the Public Realm Enhancement works has yet been confirmed, it is believed that the north side of the Square will be ready to host the festival which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, December 11th and 12th. The Christmas event is a combined venture between Roscommon County Council, Roscommon Town Team and the

Chamber of Commerce and will feature food stalls, a Christmas market, and live music. Town Team Chairperson, Larry Brennan, said the event would help to showcase the new Square. “The Christmas Festival will take place on the north side of the Square towards the old jail (Stonecourt), which will be completed by then. It’s a combined effort between the Council, Town Team, and the Chamber and it will consist of food stalls, a Christmas market and music. The festival will run from 3 pm to 8 pm on Saturday (11th) and Sunday (12th) and there will be something for everyone,” he said. Chamber of Commerce

Launch of Seamus Duke’s book tonight

President, Brendan Allen, said the festival would help bring back some Christmas cheer following a year and a half of Covid-19 lockdowns. “There will be a nice amount of activity going on across the weekend in the Square and hopefully it will help to bring some festive atmosphere into the town,” he said. “While the switching on of the Christmas lights at the end of November marks the official start of Christmas in Roscommon town, this will be a follow-on from that and it will give people a chance to soak up some of the atmosphere. “It will also highlight the work

that has taken place in the town with works nearing completion on the new Square. It’s a chance for us to try and put the effects of the pandemic behind us as much as we can and celebrate Christmas in Roscommon town”. Among the impressive lineup for Roscommon’s two-day Christmas Festival will be popular local acts including: Mick Hanly, Angela Gavigan, Danny Arnold, the Ukulele Collective and Singers Circle, Matt Rogers and Joe Healy, Therese Hanley and Nuala Donlon, Michael Banahan and Friends, Vincent Pierse, The Inspectors, CCG, Lady Betty, John Wynne and John Carlos, Blacksticks, and Gatehouse.

Tonight (Thursday, 11th of November) sees the launch of local journalist and broadcaster Seamus Duke’s book ‘Dukie: The Game of Life’. The launch will take place in the Abbey Hotel at 8.30 pm. Over 30 well-known people were interviewed for the book, in which Seamus looks back on 32 years working in the local media. The book contains accounts of some special GAA memories, featuring memorable matches and players (both club and county) from over the decades. Also featured are soccer, horse racing, golf, the radio and newspaper business, and local political stories which made the headlines over that period. The launch on Thursday, 11th of November will be performed by RTE presenter Damien O’Reilly. Special guest on the night will be John O’Mahony, the former Galway, Mayo, Leitrim and St Brigid’s manager. The MC will be Paul Healy, Editor of the Roscommon People. Refreshments will be served on the night and all Sean Mannion and Enda Beirne pictured supporting the Roscommon team in the All-Ireland Masters Plate final against Cavan in Drumlish on Saturday. Pic: Mick McCormack are welcome. Covid-19 guidelines will apply.

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets! R Stephen Donnelly @DonnellyStephen A really special day opening the new palliative care support unit for Roscommon. Amazing achievement by the fundraising of @MayoRoscHospice and their communities. The sense of pride on what’s been achieved after decades of work was evident today. -The Minister for Health with a timely tweet for the day that was in it (last Friday) bruce dessau @brucedes Just seen BBC Two is repeating Jack Charlton documentary. It’s fantastic, funny, touching and about so much you don’t need to be interested in football at all to be moved by it or hooked. I can’t stop myself from watching it again. #jackcharlton -There were many more plaudits for the very moving documentary on the late Jack Charlton when it aired recently on BBC Two

Maureen Catterson @MoCatterson How great is it to see so many Irish businesses doing so well. It’s like the Toy Show for grown ups! Definitely one of the most important shows of the year. #LateLateShow -Maureen enjoyed the Late Late Show business special...(we thought the Toy Show was for grown-ups too!)

Gary Lineker @GaryLineker Imagine wanting to be a Lord so badly, you’d actually try and buy a peerage. Actually, imagine wanting to be Lord. Actually, why do we still have Lords in 2021? Bizarre. -Goals, no gongs: Seems Gary won’t be accepting a gong any time soon...

Michael Clifford @Mickcliff Is there a quota for SF reps of how many times the term ‘workers and families’ must be used in media appearances? -Journo Michael casts a critical eye on the Sinn Féin ‘take’ on the Government’s Climate Action Plan... Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan Sipping my Barry’s tea, I hope there is good news for poor old Cork in today’s climate plan. The atmosphere at All-Ireland football time is terrible on Leeside. The air is polluted with grief, loss. -Mischievous Michael has a playful pop at...Cork

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly pictured at Friday’s official opening of the new Hospice Unit in Roscommon Town. Photo: Mick McCormack

newsbriefs Climate action: Kerrane wants farmers to be compensated Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has said that farmers must be compensated for their efforts to tackle climate action. Speaking on RTÉ Radio on Saturday, Deputy Kerrane said: “Farmers will engage constructively and are ready, willing, and able to play their part when it comes to climate action. “However, those who would be critical of the agricultural sector need to be mindful of two things before they open their mouth on the matter – farm incomes are on the floor, and the agricultural sector is key to rural economies. “While in recent months we have seen some increases in farm income such as slightly improved beef prices, farm outputs are through the roof, from fertiliser to feed to diesel wiping out any possible gains. “As someone who comes from a family of farmers, I know the importance and the absolute need for farmers to be compensated for the changes they are being asked to make. “With that, we should remember who produces the food we eat every day and be mindful when we discuss agriculture and climate action – and I say that as much to the media as to anyone else”.

Yoga classes in Ballinaheglish

Yoga classes commence in Ballinaheglish Community Centre next Tuesday (November 16th) at 8 pm. This is a pay as you go class and is suitable for all ability levels. Church gate collection for Roscommon SPCA The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals will be holding its annual church gate collections in the following areas during November and December: 13th and 14th November: Croghan, Ballaghaderreen and Ballyforan Churches. 25th and 26th December: Ballyleague, Ballagh and Four Roads Churches. Your support will be greatly appreciated, and all money raised goes directly to animal welfare in the county.

Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed AGM The Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed AGM will take place at 8 pm on Tuesday, November 16th in the shed in Ballaghaderreen. All members are invited to attend.

Gospel Reflection

Sunday, November 14 In this, the second-to-last week of the Church year, Jesus has finally made it to Jerusalem. Near to His passion and death, He gives us a teaching of hope, telling us how it will be when He returns again in glory. Today’s Gospel is taken from the end of a long discourse in which He describes tribulations the likes of which haven’t been seen “since the beginning of God’s creation” (see Mark 13:9). He describes what amounts to a dissolution of God’s creation, a “devolution” of the world to its original state of formlessness and void. First, human community – nations and kingdoms – will break down (see Mark 13:7–8). Then the earth will stop yielding food and begin to shake apart (13:8). Next, the family will be torn apart from within and the last faithful individuals will be persecuted (13:9-13). Finally, the Temple will be desecrated, the earth emptied of God’s presence (13:14). In today’s reading, God is described putting out the lights that He established in the sky in the very beginning – the sun, the moon and the stars (see also Isaiah 13:10; 34:4). Into this “uncreated” darkness, the Son of Man, in whom all things were made, will come. Jesus has already told us that the Son of Man must be humiliated and killed (see Mark 8:31). Here He describes His ultimate victory, using royal-divine images drawn from the Old Testament – clouds, glory, and angels (see Daniel 7:13). He shows Himself to be the fulfilment of all God’s promises to save “the elect,” the faithful remnant (see Isaiah 43:6; Jeremiah 32:37). As today’s First Reading tells us, this salvation will include the bodily resurrection of those who sleep in the dust. We are to watch for this day, when His enemies are finally made His footstool, as today’s Epistle envisions. We can wait in confidence knowing, as we pray in today’s Psalm, that we will one day delight at His right hand forever. -Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church).

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

Manager Alannah Somers and assistant manager, Kirstin Dunican, pictured at District Speciality Coffee in Roscommon town. Pic: Mick McCormack

DISTRICT – Roscommon’s first speciality coffee experience! Located on Abbey Street in Roscommon Town, District Speciality Coffee has brought some cosmopolitan flair to the local coffee house scene since its official opening earlier this year. Stocking the prestigious, award-winning 3FE brand, which boasts a range of exclusive blends from across the world, District has been dubbed ‘Roscommon’s first speciality coffee experience’. Co-owner John Campbell, says the new business is “all about the coffee”. “3FE is a Dublin brand which was established by Colin Harmon in 2008. Colin set up a coffee shop and roastery and now supplies coffee houses nationwide and further afield. The 3FE brand is very hard to get and they only supply two other businesses in the west of Ireland – one in Sligo and one in Galway,” John said. Businesses hoping to stock 3FE must pass a strict vetting process and that includes the ongoing training of staff.

District’s manager, Alannah Somers, and assistant manager, Kirsten Dunican, have worked tirelessly to get up to speed. “There is a lot of training required and we were in here for a few weeks before District opened in order to familiarise ourselves with the equipment and the process involved,” Alannah said. “The coffee has to be top-class to meet the high standards we have here and there also has to be consistency from one cup to the next. There is a strict process involved: we have to weight the right amount of beans and the machine must be timed to the second. You have to follow that process to the letter to maintain the quality”. “The training is vital,” adds John, “But so too is freshness. We order our coffee on Wednesdays, it’s freshly roasted on Thursday, and then it arrives Friday. It’s all about the coffee and ensuring that it’s very fresh each and every time”. According to John, District is

Located on Abbey Street in Roscommon Town, District Speciality Coffee has brought some cosmopolitan flair to the local coffee house scene since its official opening earlier this year. Pic: Mick McCormack

also riding the crest of coffee’s ‘third wave’. “Coffee is now an artisanal product, very much like wine. Irish palettes have become more attuned to fine coffee and so not just any cup will do anymore,” he said. Alannah adds: “We’ve had customers come into us after

being away and they couldn’t drink the coffee on offer in other places. That’s why consistency is so important at District and we keep producing that quality in every cup”. As well as brewing fresh coffee, District also offers customers a grinding service, so that they can enjoy the fresh-

Speciality Coffee Abbey House, Abbey St, Ballypheasan, Roscommon town, F42 Y098. Telephone: (090) 663 4801 Open from 8 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 5 pm on Saturdays

ness at home. There are also a number of sweet treats and artisanal foods on offer in store. Business has been good so far, and District benefits from a steady footfall from the local courthouse, Garda Station, and Roscommon County Council offices. “We chose the name

District because of the local courthouse, Garda barracks and the Council. We’ve an advantage too in the fact that we open at 8 am each weekday morning. I think we’re the first to open around here,” John said. Alannah, meanwhile, can attest to the “very busy” court days and Saturday morning rush: “On Saturdays, we open an hour later than we do during the week and there are people sitting in their cars outside waiting. It’s great to see that and we’ve already got to know a lot of our customers who have been coming here regularly. It’s been really positive so far and we feel right at home here!” District Speciality Coffee is open from 8 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 5 pm on Saturdays. You can follow District @ Districtspecialitycoffee on Instagram for updates and competitions.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie On the PR tour, Michael checks in with the man from the Times. No doubt the backers of ‘The Flash’ will be expecting Michael to work his promotional magic, a print version of one of those set-ups we see on the Graham Norton Show. Asked about his return and the new movie, here’s what the actor said: “It’s 2021 or whatever the f**k it is – who gives a s**t. Let’s talk about things that matter...who the f**k cares about Batman?” I think it was tongue in cheek...

Thursday Paschal D never rings me for advice on the trajectory of the Irish economy, but our friends in Ipsos MRBI are almost constantly on the phone. We’d be on first-name terms if it wasn’t for the fact that it seems to be a different person every time. The caller today was particularly downbeat, despite the fact that I agreed to participate in the latest MRBI survey on business trends. When she asked me the usual questions – with a lack of enthusiasm which I could perfectly appreciate – I slightly wearily ‘returned serve’ with a selection of the multiple choice answers. By the end of the five minutes, we were both wilting. “If you have any complaints or queries you can call Rachel” the lady from MRBI routinely said, and with that she was gone. I suppose I could ring Rachel and complain about Tayto putting so few crisps into their bags, or ask her if you really have to keep cutting the grass into November…

Monday Crossing Rooskey bridge, there’s something about the commercial van in front of me that draws my attention. The ‘Solas’ vehicle is painted black, white and yellow, with a touch of green. It strikes me that I’ve never seen one of this company’s vehicles on the road before. Definitely some kind of a lightbulb moment for me…

Friday Due to previously scheduled family commitments, I couldn’t make it to the official opening of the new Roscommon Hospice Unit today (the Roscommon People was well represented). Neither could President Joe Biden make it, although I gather that has nothing to do with my piece in this column last week in which I commented negatively on his less than inspirational opening months in office. At least President Biden sent a message. I’m told the assembled guests were suitably wowed by the screening of a video in which the President of the United States of America conveyed a personal message of congratulations and support to MayoRoscommon Hospice on this very auspicious occasion. In the video, President Biden – who turned the first sod for the Mayo Hospice project in 2017 – said that the new Roscommon facility will always have a special place in his heart. All credit to the man. This remarkable personal support from President Biden is very welcome and will no doubt inspire everyone involved in MayoRoscommon Hospice. It’s at least 20 years since then Hospice CEO Cynthia Clampett first informed me of plans to build this unit. Over the years, Cynthia – always so passionate about the project – consistently kept me up to date on its progress. I am delighted to see the facility now in place, and commend current CEO Martina Jennings, chairperson Mike Smith, and everyone who has worked so hard to make it happen. It’s a fantastic development and a credit to all concerned.

Saturday Where would we be without the Premier League soap opera? With his team failing to win any of their opening ten league games this season,

Tuesday

Josh and DJ Scahill from Castlerea pictured at the All-Ireland Masters Plate final between Roscommon and Cavan in Drumlish on Saturday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Norwich manager Daniel Farke was well aware of the pressure he was under going into today’s fixture with Brentford. Mr. Farke’s inner voice will have been on to him all through Friday night. “Hey, Daniel, you need a win! If you don’t win, this speculation about you getting the sack won’t stop! Start winning, man!” Good then for Mr Farke that his Norwich team finally won, defeating Brentford 2-1 (away). Great result, rot stopped. Not so good for Mr Farke that the Norwich board issued a statement this very evening...confirming that they had sacked their manager. Mr. Farke had been relieved of his duties...hours after finally getting a win. At this rate, should Norwich string a couple more wins together, I suggest the chairperson must go – and the position of the entire board will be untenable.

Later on Saturday Why is it that people who never eat popcorn at any other time can’t seem to get enough of it when they’re at the cinema? We spend virtually our entire lives being indifferent to popcorn, then insist on taking possession of a giant cardboard box of it the moment we reach the counter in a cinema. The latest Bond movie beckoned on Saturday night for our family. It was nice to have a licence

to queue again. When we arrived (a few minutes late) at the Omniplex Cinema in Roscommon, there were about 20 people ahead of us in the queue. We were shaken, but not stirred. In truth it was great to see a (socially distanced) line of people back in the cinema. After purchasing our tickets (and popcorn) we headed for Screen/Theatre 3. As we mounted the steps, Bond (Daniel Craig) was mounting steps in an Italian town, in his Aston Martin. It was a spectacular opening scene which set the tone for an enjoyable movie. ‘No Time To Die’ is a typical Bond movie – featuring elaborate action sequences, doomed villains, heroes with an uncanny ability to dodge bullets, a far-fetched storyline, and a script that’s invariably almost a parody of the world it’s meant to depict. It was good fun, although there were a few boring lulls between the spectacular scenes, hardly surprising given that the movie is two hours and 43 minutes long. As for the budget which the makers must have had, I can only imagine you could build half a children’s hospital for it – even in Ireland.

Sunday In the Sunday Times’ Culture magazine, Michael Keaton is interviewed about returning to play the part of Batman at the age of 70. He first starred as Batman in 1989; now he’s back in a new spin-off Batman movie called ‘The Flash’.

Austin Currie, who died today aged 82, came to prominence as a brave and principled civil rights activist/SDLP MP, later ‘moving south’ and winning a seat in the Dáil as a Fine Gael candidate. He also served as a Minister of State. When Currie ran (for Fine Gael) in the 1990 Presidential election, I interviewed him in the Royal Hotel in Roscommon Town. He was very courteous and articulate, and had a remarkable life story to tell. Currie was an outsider in that presidential race. When charismatic FF candidate Brian Lenihan (who had served as a TD in Roscommon) subsequently visited during the campaign, he brought the house down at a huge rally in the Abbey Hotel. In the end, it was another presumed outsider, Mary Robinson, who won the presidential election. Austin Currie’s legacy is a remarkable one, reflecting a life devoted to social justice and peace.

Tuesday/Wednesday The major enhancement works in Roscommon Town centre are now very well advanced and will hopefully be completed in the coming weeks. When I went for a walk on Tuesday night, the town was extremely quiet, which is now the norm for Tuesday nights (some of the pubs don’t open). A few people were out walking, enjoying the very pleasant weather. About 15 members of a local athletic club glided past. On Wednesday morning, the work had resumed and the machinery was humming away again. The newly-paved area adjacent to the Square is quite spectacular. One or two murmurings about the width of selected footpaths notwithstanding, I think the completed works are likely to be very positively received by the public.

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Launch of mental health app this evening Mental Health Roscommon, in partnership with Mental Health Ireland, HSE Mental Health Services, and the Athlone Institute of Technology, is delighted to announce the launch of The Good Place App. Martin Rogan (CEO of Mental Health Ireland) will launch the app at a special event in the Abbey Hotel on Thursday, October 11th, at 7 pm. The app project team members, including the research and software developers, will deliver presenta-

tions on how the app was developed and will be on hand to field questions afterwards. The Roscommon HSE Key Notes Lived Experience and staff choir will perform a medley of tunes to mark the occasion. The ‘Good Place’ app idea arose during a conversation between Teresa Keane (Mental Health Ireland) and Sinead McDermott (Trustee of Mental Health Roscommon) about the lack of awareness and lack of access when it comes to local wellness

resources in Roscommon. Teresa Keane (Project Lead and Development Officer for MHI) explains: “Covid-19 has brought into sharp focus the importance of technology and its ability to help people feel more empowered and connected. “This app will provide an alwayson, easily-accessible resource for people in the community who are in recovery, in crisis, or who simply want to learn about and explore

ways to maintain good mental health. It will help people to help themselves, while also making it easier to reach out to others for support when they need it”. The Good Place app will enable people in the Roscommon community to avail of tools and resources that support and promote positive mental health, all from their mobile devices. Content includes a mood tracker, gratitude journal, directory of local services, as well as links to

Chris O’Dowd stars in The Simpsons

Boyle native Chris O’Dowd stars as henchman Seamus alongside actress Jessica Paré in an episode of The Simpsons.

Established Irish actor and Boyle native Chris O’Dowd made a guest star appearance alongside Canadian actress Jessica Paré in a season 33 episode of The Simpsons last weekend. O’Dowd, famous for his roles in Bridesmaids and The IT Crowd, voices henchman Seamus in the twopart episode, the first of which aired on Sunday last, November 7th. The episode, entitled ‘A Serious Flanders’, parodies the Fargo TV show and follows the story of a debt collector who arrives to the town of Springfield. On Twitter, O’Dowd highlighted his involvement in the legendary animated show, writing “I’m in the Simpsons tonight” – and adding a smiley face!

mental health services and a host of other useful community resources designed to bolster wellbeing. The Good Place App was developed by Athlone Institute of Technology’s Software Research Institute (SRI), who provided the technical expertise needed to develop and deliver the app. The Good Place app will be available for both Android and Apple (iOS) devices from November 11th in the App Store and Google Play Store.

Calling all crafters and food producers! The annual Castlerea Christmas Craft and Food Fair will be held in The Hub, Castlerea on Sunday, December 5th. We invite all local food producers and craftspeople who wish to showcase their products to take a stand at the Fair. In 2019, there were over eighty exhibitors, with gifts to suit all price ranges. This year, we already have 35 stands booked, including jewellery, knitwear, woodcraft, paintings, flower arrangements, Christmas baking and much more. Once again we will have our food court and food demonstrations in An Chistin. All monies raised on the day will go to the continuing development of The Hub. Stands can be booked by contacting Madeline on 086-3821787.

Iarratas ar aighneachtaí Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 – Dréachtscéim á hullmhú ag Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin Request for submissions Official Languages Act 2003 – Preparation of a draft scheme by Roscommon County Council Tá sé beartaithe ag Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin scéim a dhréachtú de réir Alt 11 d’Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003. Is é príomhchuspóir an Achta a chinntiú go mbeidh fáil níos fearr agus caighdeán níos airde ar seirbhísí poiblí trí Ghaeilge. Is mian le Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin anois aighneachtaí ar líne a iarraidh, maidir le hullmhú na dréachtscéime ó aon pháirtithe leasmhara. Logáil isteach ar https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com/ chun d’aighneacht a dhéanamh. Eolas maidir le hAcht na Gaeilge agus seirbhísí Gaeilge atá ar fail ag Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin cliceáil www.roscommoncoco.ie anois. Is é Dé Sathairn an 11ú Nollaig 2021 an dáta deiridh d’aighneachtaí ag 5:00pm Tá tuilleadh eolais maidir leis an Acht ar fáil ar shuíomh gréasáin na Roinne Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta www.pobail.ie nó trí iarratas ríomhphoist chuig achtteanga@pobal.ie. Roscommon County Council proposes to draft a scheme in accordance with Section 11 of the Official Languages Act 2003. The primary objective of the Act is to ensure better availability and a higher standard of public services through Irish. Roscommon County Council now wishes to invite online submissions in relation to the preparation of the draft scheme from any interested parties. Log onto https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com/ to make your submission. Information in relation to the Irish Language Act and Irish language services at Roscommon County Council click www.roscommoncoco.ie The latest date for receipt of submissions is 5pm on Saturday 11th December 2021. Further Information in relation to the Act is available on the Department of Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs website www.pobail.ie or by email request to achtteanga@pobal.ie. Sínithe: Caitlín Conneely, A/Director of Services, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town. A/Director of Services

Fans at the match ...

Supporters pictured at Sunday’s Roscommon Minor (U-17) Football final at Dr Hyde Park, in which Roscommon Gaels defeated Boyle. Photo: Mick McCormack

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WE HAVE MOVED!

BLACK FRIDAY ‘I do believe that MADNESS! robins appear when we most need them’ 20% of all stock Pictured is artist Ellen Susan Igoe. Pic: Liam Reynolds

Castlerea artist designs Christmas cards and prints in support of Hospice While Christmas is a joyful time for so many, it can also be very difficult for others. The past twenty months have been incredibly challenging for everyone, and local artist Ellen Susan Igoe has launched her ‘Spideog’ Collection to give back to her local community in support of Mayo-Roscommon Hospice. We’ve often heard the saying ‘Robins appear when loved ones are near’, and it was this saying that inspired The Spideog Collection of Christmas cards and poster prints, with an iconic image of a robin perched on a branch. Ellen Susan describes this illustration as being very special to her as the robin can symbolise the presence of loved ones who have passed away.

It was while chatting to her childhood friend Ashley Hayden, who sadly lost her father Christy in 2019, that she was motivated to share this collection. Together, the pair choose to support MayoRoscommon Hospice by donating 50 per cent of all card sales to the hospice to recognise the amazing work they do. Ellen Susan is an established multidisciplinary artist who is best known for her photo-realistic pet and human portraits as well as fine art prints and original paintings. She works with many different mediums, often combining several in one piece. “This Spideog illustration is very special. Its design is quite simple, yet it sends a very strong message,” said Ellen Susan. “I do believe that robins appear when we most need them, a sign that a loved one is close by and that is what inspired my illustration. I also wanted this design to bring comfort to people who are

grieving or dealing with loss. I’m delighted to be able to support my local charity. It’s really encouraging to think that my design has already been shipped to various locations throughout Ireland and abroad. “Personally, I feel there is something lovely about receiving a handwritten card or letter, it reminds others we are always thinking of them”. In early 2020, Ellen Susan took part in the Herstory Ireland and Stay with Me art show, highlighting the Mother and Baby homes and in particular the work of Catherine Corless, of whom she created a digital portrait that was projected during a light show on Athlone Castle and at the Jealous Wall at Belvedere House and Gardens. Ellen Susan’s Spideog collection can be purchased on her website ellensusanigoeart.com. 50 per cent of profits will be donated to Mayo-Roscommon Hospice.

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Award-winning ‘Fight Night’ at Roscommon Arts Centre This winter, Rise Productions embark on a nationwide tour of Gavin Kostick’s ‘Fight Night’ to celebrate the show’s tenth anniversary, taking in Roscommon Arts Centre on Friday, November 19th at 8 pm. Winner of both the Bewley’s Little Gem Award and Best Actor for Aonghus Óg McAnally, Fight Night is a gripping journey charting the comeback of Dan Coyle Jnr., a failed amateur boxer from a long line of accomplished fighters.

Living in the shadows of his overbearing father and his brother’s Olympic success, Dan lets his training slip in favour of girls and booze. Then, an incident with his father minutes before a crucial bout splinters the family and exiles Dan from the ring. It’s not until the birth of his own son years later that his competitive fire is reignited, and he takes the first tentative steps on his road to redemption. This fast-paced and engaging solo performance combines in-

tense physicality with a classic Dublin wit in a storytelling experience that will leave audiences both exhausted and exhilarated. Following an extended six-week run at Bewley’s Café Theatre, Fight Night returned for a 25 date nationwide tour, including a week at the prestigious Ulster Bank Dublin Theatre Festival, and was nominated Best New Play at the Irish Times Theatre Awards. RTÉ subsequently commissioned and broadcast a re-imagining of Fight Night as a play for radio.

It returned in 2012 for a summer festival tour, including headlining the Theatre Tent at Electric Picnic, and international tours to both Glasgow’s Mayfesto festival and the Irish Festival of Oulu in Finland. The show’s 10th anniversary nationwide tour takes in over 20 venues across all four provinces and makes its Roscommon debut on November 19th. Tickets are on sale now from box office 090-66 25824 and from www.roscommonartscentre.ie.

Tractor and Car Run a great success! The Tractor and Car Run in aid of Lough Ree and Roscommon Sub Aqua Clubs turned out to be a great success with upwards on one hundred vehicles taking part. The charity event, which took place on Sunday, October 24th was organised by Mid Roscommon Vintage Club and a substantial amount of money was raised. A cheque presentation will be made to the two sub aqua clubs in the Fireside Lounge, Clashaganny on Friday 12th November. The vintage club would like to thank all the people who took part and all the workers who sold raffle cards. The club would also like to thank all the traffic marshalls, stewards and motorcyclists who made everything run so smooth. Last but not least the club is grateful to the caterers and suppliers of food on the day and to the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club for hosting the run at Lanesboro.

Pictured at the launch of Barber Bobs’ Movember promotion were Barber Bobs’ owner, Robbie Connaughton, manager Mario and senior stylist Laura.

Barber Bobs set to raise funds for ‘Movember’ November means ‘Movember’ as men across the country grow eyecatching moustaches and facial hair in a bid to raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues such as testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and male suicide.

Barber Bobs in Monksland are taking it a step further this year, and in conjunction with DPD Ireland are offering all DPD employees a reduced rate on haircuts (€10) as well free moustache trimming.

The company is also offering free ‘Mo trims’ for all men and there is a donation bucket in store for those wishing to donate. Alternatively, you can check out Barber Bobs on Facebook and click on the donation link provided.

Some of the vehicles taking part in the Mid Roscommon Vintage Club Tractor and Car Run in aid of Lough Ree and Roscommon Sub Aqua Clubs. A selection of the classic cars that took part in the Mid Roscommon Vintage Club Tractor and Car Run in aid of Lough Ree and Roscommon Sub Aqua Clubs.

Local dance school collects 100 shoeboxes for Team Hope Appeal! Bróga Bríomhar Dance School, Roscommon has recently gathered 100 Christmas Shoe Box Appeal boxes across five venues in Sligo and Roscommon for the Team Hope Charity. Weekly Sean Nós Dancing classes for children take place on a Wednesdays in the QUAD Youth Centre, Roscommon town. Picture with their Christmas Shoeboxes are Eiméar Mulvey (Bróga Bríomhar Dance School owner) and Chloe McCann.

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FIE loses High Court bid over Lough Funshinagh pipe Friends of the Irish Environment has lost in its High Court bid to bring Roscommon County Council Chief Executive, Eugene Cummins, before the court for alleged contempt over the local authority’s decision to restart works at Lough Funshinagh. In the High Court last Thursday, Mr. Justice Garrett Simons refused an application for an attachment order by FIE, and found no breach of the order he made on August

25th which brought the works to a halt. Justice Simons found that the works, which restarted in October, were being carried out on a different statutory basis and that FIE would have to seek a fresh judicial review in order to contest them. Roscommon County Council has said it was satisfied with the decision and works have now recommenced in order to reduce the level of floodwater at the turlough.

Supporters pictured at Sunday’s Roscommon Minor (U-17) Football final at Dr Hyde Park, in which Roscommon Gaels defeated Boyle. Photo: Mick McCormack Advertorial

Physiotherapy and energy healing with Darragh Sheehy Testimonials “I went to Darragh with an ongoing back problem and after a couple of visits the issue was much improved. Also from a mindset point of view, things looked much better. I couldn’t recommend a visit to Darragh enough”. “Physically, emotionally and spiritually I am in a far better place now. What I learned from Darragh was invaluable, and I use what he taught me each and every day. I now love meditation and how it helps me to deal with everyday life”.

Hi, I’m Darragh Sheehy and I have been working as a physiotherapist and an energy healer based in Athlone/Roscommon for over ten years. With physiotherapy I’m working with people who have physical pain or and injury which is affecting their wellbeing. Typical sessions involve: Movement scans, hands on work, an exercise prescription. The focus is to get to the root of what’s creating the pain in your body

and releasing it so you can do more of what you want. With energy healing I’m working with people who want a relaxing session, want deeper healing or further understanding of a symptom. Sessions involve body scans and meditation, hands on work, breathing exercises, and sound healing. If you would like to experience this work or to find out more about what I offer, please contact me on 086-3114042.

Look after your Body and Mind Book a Physiotherapy or Energy Healing Session in Athlone/Roscommon with

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Advertorial

The Abbey Hotel, the home of fine dining in County Roscommon Why not experience the culinary delights of the Multi-Award Winning Chefs at the 4* Abbey Hotel Roscommon, for a dining experience where casual elegance and sophistication meets in a timeless relaxed atmosphere. County Winners of the RAI Best Chef & Best Hotel Restaurant Award 2019. The 4* Abbey Hotel in Roscommon offers a varied range of dishes prepared from only the freshest of locally sourced produce and served with great care and attention to detail, therefore making it the perfect setting, whether dining in Roscommon for business or pleasure. The hotel offers an extensive Seasonal Bar Food Menu for those wishing for a less formal experience. Lounge Food is served daily from 4.30 - 9.00 p.m. Afternoon Tea is available and cost is €25 pp ( with prior booking essential) there is also a takeaway Afternoon tea option. It is advisable to make dinner reservations as our restaurant and lounge areas can be very busy at weekends and during the busy peak seasons especially with busy mid terms coming up. With the current COVID restrictions, all those wishing to dine in the Lounge and restaurant area must pre book their table. We also have a new Pizza Menu available to eat in or take out. After dinner guests can relax by the open fire in the luxurious newly refurbished lounge areas or in the Abbey Hotel Bar. There is an extensive drinks and 'Wines of the World' menu to choose from and a range of Cocktails are also served including the RAI award-winning 'Apple of my eye' Martini. We also serve an extensive range of craft beers, whiskeys, and liquors. The Abbey Hotel is renowned for it's Sunday Lunch with Carvery Lunch served from 12.00pm 4.00pm. We also serve a Four-Course Lunch Menu in our award-winning Restaurant. Dinner is served from 6pm - 9pm each evening with Seasonal Bar Food served from 4.30 - 9.00 p.m daily. Samples of our menus are all available to view on our website. Our exquisite Dinner Menu comprises of a Set Menu or you can choose from our A La Carte Menu. Special Occasion Menus are available for Dinner Dances, Gala Balls, Christenings, Birthday Parties, Communions, Confirmation, and Retirement parties. To enquire about booking an event or special function simply call 090 6626240 or email restaurant@abbeyhotel.ie Gift Vouchers are available to purchase on our website www. abbeyhotel.ie or direct from hotel reception. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook Instagram and Twitter.

Kick-start Christmas early with festive party nights at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon

The Christmas party season is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than with a well deserved night out with work colleagues, family and friends at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. This year, the Abbey will host two party nights on Friday December 10th and Friday December 17th, starting off the festivities on both nights at 8 pm with a mulled wine reception. This will be followed by a delightful, fourcourse festive menu, after which there will be a festive-themed disco with Radio Compere and DJ Keith Shanley (Midlands 103 Radio and Christmas FM DJ). Featuring hits of the decades, the disco is guaranteed to keep you on the dance floor until the late hours. The cost is €39 per person with special B&B rates available on the night. To book, call 090-6626240 or email events@ abbeyhotel.ie We wish to advise that all attending the party nights will be required to have a valid digital Covid cert to gain admission. Full health and safety protocols will be in place.

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FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Little acts of kindness make a big difference! Our man Frank on previously unseen restrictions, a Connemara invasion of Creggs, turning over the Japanese, designated driver rotas for rural pubs, and the ‘Full Irish’ followed by a morning on the Green… When one considers the fact that Covid-19 has been with us for such a long time, you’d be forgiven for thinking that by now I would’ve come across all the changes it has brought about. Remarkably however, you would be wrong, as over the weekend, I experienced regulations

in two different situations that I had escaped up until now. The first was on Saturday evening, when I arrived at the old Regional Hospital in Galway to visit my wife Carol, who is presently a patient there. The polite, but firm, security guard told me to wait outside as visiting times are strictly 6 to 8 pm. I was a little early (by about ten minutes or so), but there was no way I was getting in before six. By the time the magic hour came, there must have been fifty or sixty people queueing outside in what was a pretty raw evening. Anyway, the queue started to move eventually, but when my turn came, I was asked for my proof of vaccination, which I didn’t actually have on me. Fortunately, earlier that day I had gotten a text message from my doc-

As good as anything I’ve seen from Boys in Green

Staying with rugby, I must admit that on Saturday, despite my reservations over having twelve Leinster players starting for Ireland, the performance in beating Japan by sixty points to five was as good as anything I’ve ever seen from any Irish team. Throw in the fact that Johnny Sexton, on the occasion of getting his 100th cap, managed to score a try as well as kicking several conversions and penalties, and

tor arranging a time and date for my booster vaccine and the security guard allowed me in – although he warned me not to forget it again. I suppose it was fairly stupid of me to not have it on me, but I have just now taken it out of safe keeping, so I won’t be caught without it again. On then to Sunday morning – and I’m nearly ashamed to say it – but it was the first time I had gone to Mass since the arrival of the pandemic. The truth is that I was not sure what the new procedures were, and rather than making an idiot of myself, I thought it was easier not to go at all! However, I finally plucked up the courage to go on Sunday, and the truth was that it was very well organised, with social distancing properly observed, and every protocol in place. One of the only big differences I

could see was that there was no collection, although envelopes could either be put in a box in the church, or handed in to Dowd’s of Glinsk, or Roarke’s in Creggs. Additionally, after receiving Holy Communion, people didn’t go back to their seats, but headed straight out the door. The other thing I noticed was that almost nobody coughed during the entire Mass, whereas once upon a time you’d have everyone spluttering and choking. I presume we’re all nearly afraid to cough now, for fear people would think we have Covid. Either that or all the vaccines, flu included, are doing their jobs. Fr. Donal, our Parish Priest, gave his usual interesting homily, in which he spoke about the importance of doing little acts of kindness – like making an odd phone call to family and

Designated driver rota for rural pubs?

Johnny Sexton

you could really sense the huge optimism after the big win. Just like Creggs however, bigger tests are coming. This weekend’s game against the other All Blacks, New Zealand, will give a truer picture of our rugby wellbeing. All in all, the signs are good, but no one will be getting carried away on the strength of one big win over the Japanese. Roll on Saturday, and we’ll see what we are made of!

Once again, we are always being told that country pubs are dying on their feet, and I suppose there is no disputing the facts. On Saturday night however, Dowd’s was well full, and the people were out enjoying themselves. I have always believed that country pubs, with a lot of effort, can survive, and one of the ways to do so is provide transport so the punters can get to and from the pub safely and without drinking and driving. Down in the south of Ireland, I recently saw where a group of twenty to thirty locals came together and drew up a roster so that between them, they could provide transport to their local village pub. As most people are only out over the weekend, I imagine it could and should be done in all our little towns. Properly worked, a driver would only be on every few weeks,

Traffic delays as All Blacks arrive for Cawley Cup match Last week, I told you that the only time we have traffic jams in Creggs was on the Fair Day of the Harvest Festival and when the Connemara All Blacks come to to town. While it might have been a slight exaggeration, the All Blacks sure brought a large, loud, and enthusiastic crowd of supporters with them when they came to Creggs on Sunday last. The game was the semi-final of the Cawley Cup, and while it is

not the most important competition in Connacht Junior Rugby, both teams wanted to get to the final, and went at it hammer and tongs. I’m sure there will be a full report elsewhere in the paper, but in an enthralling battle of many ups and downs, Creggs won by the narrowest of margins on a score line of 28-27. The All Blacks have been the dominant team in Connacht for a

neighbours, sending a text message to check in on people, or even giving someone a kindly smile – and how much such simple acts are appreciated. The funny thing is that for us, nothing could have hit home more forcefully. In the short time since Carol has been hospitalised, we have been overwhelmed by the Get Well cards, Mass Cards, messages of goodwill, and the amount of people who have told us they are remembering her in their thoughts and prayers. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of money and material things, but Fr. Donal is right. Simple acts of kindness are very important, and as we have benefitted from so many of them recently, I just want to say thanks to everyone – it really is greatly appreciated.

few seasons now, and even though it was the Cawley Cup, it was great for our lads to hold out for the win. Even our older and more experienced players had rarely, if ever, played on a team that had beaten them down through the years. After the game, everyone headed across to Joe Dolan’s, and it was a bit like old times. There was great food and drink, good craic and good-natured banter between some

of the die-hard supporters of both sides. For a couple of hours, we could try to forget that the country is ravaged, once again, by massive Covid numbers. It was my first visit to any pub for a good while, and it was great to see so many former players having a pint and celebrating the long overdue win – although we were warned by the departing Connemara crew that there will be bigger days ahead!

and it just might mean an upsurge of fortunes for our rural communities. I’m not sure if the publicans are involved in the southern scheme, but I would think they should be. While I am also aware that every new initiative has some problems, my view is if it works somewhere else, why not in Creggs? Maybe we could organise our own group.

Finally for this week ...

We were up earlyish Sunday morning to see the Scotland-Australia game. Scotland really are a top-class rugby team, and their match with South Africa next weekend has me bristling with excitement. They are well capable of turning over the Springboks. The full Irish was belatedly devoured, and then it was time to put on the coat and woolly hat and head to the Green in Creggs, where our own rugby team was doing battle with our old foes, Monivea. In a game full of scintillating rugby, we won on a 43-19 scoreline. What a game, what a setting – and, for all of us old Creggs folk, everything that has been happening in our village is just so positive. I have all my words used up for this week, but next week, I will tell you all about what’s coming down the line over the next couple of weeks. Bet you can’t wait!

‘Till next week, bye for now

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Roscommon’s ‘Galway’ win...in Mayo! The Roscommon Drama Group travelled to Ballina on Saturday last for their second performance on circuit this year with ‘The Galway Girl’ directed by Mary Cox. In front of a full house, boosted by a large contingent of supporters from Roscommon, the group had their first win of the season and put 12 points on the leaderboard.

€250,000 for Outdoor Performance and Public Space at Somers Park < DAN DOONER

Somers Park in Castlerea is set to benefit from €250,000 in funding to create an Outdoor Performance and Public Space following a successful application by Roscommon County Council. Local Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice said the funding would hopefully allow a number of ‘Summer Shows’ to take place in the park next year. “I am delighted to announce Roscommon County Council has been successful in receiving €250,000 in funding for Somers Park to create this outdoor performance space. The space will be

available for all the people of Co. Roscommon to enjoy arts and events,” he said. “We hope it will be ready by next summer and I am also hopeful we will put on some Summer Shows there in 2022. “Thank you to the Council staff in Community and Enterprise and our Arts Officer Rhona McGrath for putting Somers Park forward for this very exciting project. “This will be a Roscommon County Council-led project and a design will be available soon. It will include paving, seating, areas, a covered canopy, along with electricity and lighting,” Cllr. Fitzmaurice concluded.

Donnacha Caslin, Katelyn Caslin and Jack Finan pictured supporting the Roscommon team in the All-Ireland Masters Plate final against Cavan in Drumlish on Saturday. Pic: Mick McCormack

With two of their five festival appearances completed, they are currently in second place behind Navan Theatre Group who have completed three festivals. Tom Holian once again claimed the award for Best Actor as he gave a brilliant performance as Dermot. Meanwhile, Bernie Maher was also superb in her role as

Maisie and she received a nomination for leading actress. The overall performance was excellent and won the Confined Section with Director Mary Cox winning the Best Director Award. Roll on this weekend with two performances scheduled, in Kiltimagh in Mayo on Sunday night, and Doonbeg in Clare on Monday.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

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Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Cleo rescue reminded me of day an irreversible parental switch flipped inside me The abduction and dramatic rescue of four-year-old Australian child Cleo Smith, who vanished from her family’s holiday tent in the middle of the night, sparking an 18-day search, captured the attention of the entire world. I cried with relief when I heard this little angel had been recovered safe and well. A positive outcome was not really what I had expected, because, let’s face it, situations like this hardly ever end well. I don’t have any statistics for missing children in Ireland for 2021, but, (if my research is correct) a total of 6,358 reports of missing people had been made by mid-September, (last year), including 4,627 reports of people under the age of 18 who had disappeared. On a positive note, the report I’m citing does add that ‘6,306 of these people have been found, including 4,609 of the under-18s’. Of

I’m obsessed with the ‘Big Fella’ Ninety-nine years ago, the assassination of the greatest and most significant Irishman that ever lived took place. He was the hero whose strategy and leadership not only destroyed the British and their intelligence, he brought the Black and Tans to their knees. Michael Collins changed our country’s course forever. The Big Fella, who remains a titan of our Irish history, was murdered by a coward on 22nd of August 1922, (and I have my own opinion as to the traitor). He always has, and always will be, a keen interest of mine... okay, a healthy obsession. I’m someone who has read possibly every book ever written about my hero Mick; my favourite one is ‘In Great Haste’ because it documents the letters written by this extraordinary man and his fiancée Kitty Kiernan. To that end you can only imagine how excited I am to know that his diaries have been donated by his family on long-term loan to the National Archives and will, pretty soon, be digitised, meaning I can get to read them!

course you’d have to wonder and worry what has become of those still missing. Child kidnappings and abductions by strangers are rare in this country, but, if and when they do happen, they’re among the most terrifying of crimes; leaving the parents/guardians not just raw with terror and fear, but living in what could only be described as their worst nightmare. I’ve never lost my phone, my purse or my glasses, however, I have, on one occasion, lost my child. It happened many years ago. My eldest, then just six years old, briefly went missing during a family holiday to Blackpool in the UK. Her father, (my ex-husband) and I had brought her to a massive play centre called Professor Peabody’s, and, having removed her little sandals, I popped my child onto the giant bouncy castle queue

while her dad got us coffee. Briefly turning our backs to find a seat where we could keep a close eye on our baby girl, we were horrified to find that in those few seconds, she was no longer standing where I’d left her, and had basically disappeared. On a desperate mission to find my daughter, I jettisoned my mug of coffee into the air over another parent, and, while her dad searched through every queue, I catapulted myself feet first into the bouncy ball pit, almost squashing a few kids in the process. Did I care? No. My precious baby was missing, nowhere to be seen, and her voice, when I shrieked her name loud enough for only dogs to hear, was nowhere to be heard. In that moment, I not only panicked, I catastrophised to such an extent my anxiety skyrocketed, resulting in me loudly and abusively ordering the

manager, (who was now dragging me out of the pit and off the head of the child I’d landed on), to lock all doors and forbid anyone to leave. Seeing how manic I was, he agreed. He also allowed me to call out her name over the tannoy system. Then, just like that, I heard a voice from the top of a slide, unfazed and totally unaware of the panic she’d caused, squeal “mammy; watch this”. As my precious girl launched herself head first, legs akimbo, down that slide and into the pit where minutes earlier I’d nearly knocked over a poor toddler, I noticed her relieved father, (a man not known for his swift movements), race Linford Christie-style across the floor and scoop her into his arms. It was at that moment, knowing my baby was safe, (having been ‘missing’ for half an hour), that I

realised an irreversible parental switch had flipped inside of me; one that was never going to revert back. It took several days for my frantic heart rate to return to near normal. However today, when I look back and understand that the odds of my child being snatched from under my nose were so small, they were miniscule, and ask myself if I felt silly for, (as many had pointed out), ‘overreacting,’ my answer is...not one bit! Would I ‘overreact’ again if it were to happen to one of my granddaughters? Absolutely! And yes, I know that instead of remaining calm, I had allowed common sense to depart my mind; and yes, I know too I had spectacularly fallen apart; but hey, I’m a mother, and when I believe my babies are at risk, tackling the danger head on is what I do.

Get creative and get connected this winter It’s a well-known fact that some people who experience depression/mental health issues, for whatever reason, don’t seek help. I find this extremely sad because, according to everything I’ve read and studied, and according to many medical professionals, mental illness is treatable, and recovery is not just possible, it’s highly likely. Why am I raising this issue? Well folks, as we emerge from this pandemic and enter the long winter months, those who’re living alone across rural Roscommon – and in particular farmers who may often spend their days working in remote situations – will hopefully seek help and support if they need it. I do know that many people not only enjoy, but actively thrive in lone working environments and, as loneliness is subjective, I’m not suggesting that anyone working in the farming community or those living alone are unhappy. Someone can be socially isolated and never feel a hint of loneliness. On the other hand, I do know that some of those who live their lives constantly surrounded by people

can feel lonely. However, while physical distancing (and getting vaccinated) is key to slowing down the spread of Covid, the solitude it forces on us can also have a detrimental effect on our lives and on our mental wellbeing. Therefore, if you’re feeling lonely and isolated and are keen to get connected this winter, why not contact your nearest neighbour, (our neighbours are welcome to call into us at any time) and, if you’re happy with each other’s Covid protocols, (because some may be feeling vulnerable), have a cup of tea together. Better still, go out for a cup of tea. Check out the supports/gatherings provided within your community – your family doctor would be a great source of information, as will your local parish newsletter. Check out a local bingo and quiz night, a book club, a walking club, a Men’s Shed or the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA) etc. You could also contact the charity Alone on Ph: 0818222024 and make a friend…better still, you could volunteer and become a friend yourself! The possibilities are endless.

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The Brazilian Ambassador calls...to offer a helping hand

Last week we had the pleasure of having the Brazilian Ambassador visit our town. Marcel Biato took up the Irish post in October last year and I am sure it wasn’t easy to represent one of the countries which has a high level of Covid deaths. It was a difficult time to take on the responsibility of such a high profile position. Mr. Biato has been connecting with the Brazilian communities living in Ireland to find out how they are doing and identify their needs and try and address difficulties. South Roscommon Family Resource Centre (FRC), with the assistance and cooperation of the Brazilian community, hosted the event on Friday, 5th of November. The event had two segments to introduce to the Ambassador the services and representatives who work closely with the community. We had representatives from primary schools, secondary schools, adult education, community churches, Roscommon Partnership and the Brazilian Community. The Ambassador engaged with numerous people from local professional services who work closely with the Brazilian community. He also spent time talking with, and listening to, Brazilian people who live in Roscommon. He listened intently to their concerns, answered questions, offered advice and encouragement. He had a special interest in the addition of Portuguese as a language subject in the Leaving Certificate, supporting undocumented migrants applying for the new immigration scheme, which will be announced in the next couple of weeks. He also explained that Brazilians living abroad must understand the importance of keeping their Brazilian documentation updated. Mr. Biato seemed to enjoy hearing from his fellow Brazilians as they spoke about their lives in Ireland…their children in education, their jobs, how they’re settling in the community and their hopes and desires for the future. Mr. Biato has vast experience as a Diplomat and political advisor, and his presence in Roscommon was warmly welcomed by both the Brazilian and Irish communities alike. Catia da Nova, Brazilian Service: Monday 9.30-1 pm and Thursday 3.30-7 pm. South Roscommon Family Resource Centre (FRC)

Sarah Brennan (FRC Coordinator) It was a huge honour to have the Ambassador visit the FRC. He was informed, insightful and engaged. He was eager to learn about the general services we offer and the background of how we came to offer the Brazilian Outreach service. He seemed very impressed by those professionals who spoke with him, and the various supports offered to the community, including primary, secondary, adult and community education, employment pathways, migration support and family support. This was once again an opportunity to showcase the really positive interagency work that happens around the county, with state and community and voluntary sectors working closely. Each of the professionals who addressed the ambassador spoke about how the Brazilian community enriches the community in Roscommon as a whole. Apart from our pride at having this long-standing outreach service, it is a source of immense pride for us to host a Brazilian Women’s group each week. The atmosphere is incredibly warm and welcoming.

Members of the Brazilian community in Roscommon and representatives of the South Roscommon Family Resource Centre pictured with Marcel Biato, Brazilian Ambassador to Ireland, and Paulo Azevedo, Consul of Brazil, on the occasion of their visit to Roscommon Town last Friday. Photo: Bianca Fachel

We will continue to link members of the migrant community into all services and community and social groups, so that integration and cultural exchange can be an even greater part of the very multicultural atmosphere of County Roscommon. Na semana passada tivemos o prazer de receber a visita do Embaixador do Brasil em nossa cidade. O Sr. Marcel Biato assumiu o cargo Irlandês em outubro do ano passado e tenho certeza que não foi fácil representar um dos países que tem um alto índice de mortalidade Covid. Foi um momento difícil para assumir a responsabilidade de um cargo de tão alto nível. O Sr. Biato tem se conectado com as comunidades brasileiras que vivem na Irlanda para saber como elas estão e identificar suas necessidades e enfrentar as dificuldades. O Centro de Recursos da Família Roscommon (FRC), com a ajuda e cooperação da comunidade brasileira, sediou o evento na sexta-feira 05 de novembro. O evento teve dois segmentos para apresentar ao Embaixador os serviços e representantes que atuam junto à comunidade. Tivemos representantes de escolas primárias, escolas secundárias, educação de adultos, igrejas comunitárias, Roscommon Partnership e Comunidade Brasileira. O Embaixador se envolveu com várias pessoas de serviços profissionais locais que trabalham em estreita colaboração com a comunidade brasileira. Ele também passou um tempo conversando e ouvindo os brasileiros que moram em Roscommon. Ele ouviu atentamente suas preocupações, respondeu a perguntas, ofereceu conselhos e encorajamento e falou sobre o que sua posição implica e o trabalho que planeja fazer. Ele tinha um interesse especial no acréscimo do português como matéria de língua no Certificado de Conclusão(leaving certificate = ENEM no Brasil), apoiando migrantes sem documentos que se candidatam ao novo esquema de imigração, que será anunciado nas próximas semanas. Ele também explicou que os brasileiros que vivem no

exterior devem entender a importância de manter a documentação brasileira atualizada. O Sr. Biato parecia gostar de ouvir seus companheiros brasileiros falando sobre suas vidas na Irlanda ... seus filhos na educação, seus empregos, seu estabelecimento na comunidade e suas esperanças e desejos para o futuro.O Sr. Biato possui vasta experiência como diplomata e conselheiro político, e sua presença em Roscommon foi muito bem recebida pelas comunidades brasileira e irlandesa. Em sua carreira, trabalhou como oficial político na Embaixada de Londres (87-90) e no Consulado Geral em Berlim (90-94). Atuou como assessor jurídico da Missão do país junto à ONU (99-02) e, em seu trabalho com o Itamaraty, atuou como assessor durante as negociações de paz Peru-Equador (95-98). Desde 2003, ele é assistente do principal assessor de política externa do presidente brasileiro. O Sr. Biato concluiu o curso de graduação nas Universidades de Canberra e Brasília e é mestre em Sociologia Política pela London School of Economics (89). Publicou artigos sobre política latino-americana, política externa brasileira, governança global, Tribunal Penal Internacional e Direito do Mar (Fonte: The Globalist). Foi uma honra e um prazer ter um dignitário tão talentoso visitando nosso Centro e esperamos nos envolver com o Embaixador com mais frequência no futuro. Catia da Nova, Serviço Brasileiro: Segundafeira das 9:30 às 13h e quinta-feira das 15:30h às 19h, Centro de Recursos da Família Roscommon (FRC))

Sarah Brennan (FRC - Coordenadora) Foi uma grande honra ter o Embaixador visitando o FRC, ele foi informado, perspicaz e engajado. Ele estava ansioso para saber mais sobre os serviços gerais que oferecemos e o histórico de como viemos a oferecer o serviço de Outreach no Brasil. Ele pareceu muito impressionado com os profissionais que falaram com ele e com os vários

apoios oferecidos à comunidade, incluindo educação secundária, de adultos e da comunidade, caminhos de emprego, apoio à migração e apoio familiar, e fez muitas perguntas boas. Esta foi mais uma vez uma oportunidade de mostrar o trabalho interagências realmente positivo que acontece em todo o condado, com os setores estadual, comunitário e voluntário trabalhando em estreita colaboração e de forma mais eficaz do que em outras áreas. Cada um dos profissionais que se dirigiram ao embaixador falou sobre como a comunidade brasileira enriquece a comunidade de Roscommon como um todo (e que o churrasco brasileiro na festa do cordeiro é o ponto alto do fim de semana!) O embaixador deseja ter uma ideia melhor da quantidade de migrantes sem documentos na região, em um esforço para apoiá-los na obtenção de status legal ou no retorno ao Brasil. Ele também tem uma série de mensagens para trazer de volta para aqueles no Brasil que pretendem migrar para cá - é um processo longo e difícil; e a alfabetização financeira é algo em que a população migrante precisa se concentrar mais. Do ponto de vista do FRC, e além do nosso orgulho em ter este serviço de extensão de longa data - é uma fonte de imenso orgulho para nós hospedar um grupo de mulheres brasileiras a cada semana, o ambiente é incrivelmente caloroso e acolhedor (e muitas vezes há bolo!). Continuaremos a conectar os membros da comunidade migrante em todos os serviços e grupos comunitários e sociais, para que a integração e o intercâmbio cultural possam ser uma parte ainda maior da atmosfera multicultural do Condado de Roscommon. Foi uma honra poder facilitar a muitos imigrantes locais a possibilidade de falar diretamente com o representante na Irlanda de sua terra natal - para poder comemorar os sucessos e ter conversas reais sobre os desafios. Esperamos nos envolver com a embaixada no futuro para fornecer níveis ainda maiores de apoio à comunidade.

Jude Lohan, Deputy Principal of Roscommon Community College, addresses Marcel Biato, Brazilian Ambassador to Ireland, during his visit to Roscommon Town last Friday. Photo: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Why the cupboards are bare in John Bull’s eating houses The waiter at the ‘Cricketers’ bar and restaurant in the village of Yately was not a happy man. On a quiet Thursday night in November, eight of us had taken our seats at one of the largest prepared tables in the corner of this cozy little country pub beside the cricket green about 50 miles south-west of London. That’s when we made the drastic mistake of asking for the full restaurant menu. The waiter was not best pleased. “I will give you the house menu and let you have a look, but then I’ll come back to you before you select your food and tell you the problem” he replied, with an ever so acute look of grumpiness on his face as he handed over the evening’s paperwork. “So take these, but don’t go choosing your food at this point anyway, not until I come back and tell you what’s written on the menu but NOT actually on the menu today – if you know what I mean?” The truth is that at first I had no idea what he was talking about, but our hosts for the evening quickly intervened and put us out of our misery. “It’s been the same everywhere here now for months” said the genial Cavan man at the top of the table as he prepared to unveil the secret. Our experienced Breffni host is a keen political observer, who has even been known to get involved in the policies of some of the Tory party faithful over the years. But he wasn’t enjoying this new role that had been forced upon him. “There’s hardly a pub or a restaurant anywhere in this country that hasn’t experienced part of the food shortage brought on by Brexit“ he explained. “Each and every eating house in London and well beyond has had trouble getting their food supplies in and out of here, and the reality is that when he comes back, you might be looking at only choosing from half the menu – in terms of what is actually available”. Within a few minutes the full picture was unveiled. The poor waiter – who looked ever so exhausted as he wandered from table to table repeating this same sad message – was about to begin his daily ritual of Brexit fallout news. Invariably it turned out to be a sad and sordid story. ‘The Cricketers is the heart of the community – the meeting place for distant friends, families catching up and a way to enjoy someone else doing the cooking and washing up for once’ said the heartwarning message on the inside of the shiny cardboard menu before us. As the waiter began to read the newly-shortened menu I’m afraid it was pretty clear that our friends across the Irish Sea are far from at the heart of anything at the moment – especially the European community. They are in fact suffering the direct implications of not even being able to draw

Boris Johnson ... Our columnist says “The implications of Brexit have been disastrous for the food supply chains of the main restaurants”.

upon local labour, not to mention folk from anywhere else outside their own island...for their lorry-driving, fruit-picking, and whatever other key service sector work people are needed for. The truth is it’s all a bit of a shambles at the moment over there in John Bull land. The implications of Brexit have been disastrous for the food supply chains of the main restaurants, and even worse for the rural country pubs which are outside those chains. The cupboard is not bare – but from what we witnessed I can tell you it’s heading that way. As the waiter cleared his throat again and began to read from the newly-edited virtual

“

‘We do have garlic bread... but not as a starter’

menu, the depth of the problem and its implications for the eight palettes around the table became even more obvious. “The southern fried chicken burger served with mango & chilli sauce is OFF, so too the Korean fried chicken with the freshly hand-battered mango, and the lime chicken thighs tossed in Korean BBQ sauce. The chicken breast on a gammon steak topped with smoked streaky bacon is definitely OFF, so too the salmon, king prawns and rosemary sea salted skin on fries...I’m afraid we have no chicken and woodland mushroom pie planned for this evening. We do have garlic bread – but not as a starter – and all going well we should have enough to go into the portions with the pasta (one of the few dishes that remained). The good news is that the steak is ON”. With that detailed clarification delivered he was gone again, scurrying away to the next table to pass on his news – and leaving us to scratch our weary heads again and try and work out what exactly was left on the restaurant menu to satisfy our need for some evening grub. Over the course of two visits to the UK in recent weeks, scenes similar to that one in a Yately village pub were repeated on umpteen occasions. The problem surrounds the fact that our friends in the British Government

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

and all their related agencies and business contacts had their eye on the wrong ball prior to the brutal arrival of Brexit. Instead of even thinking about the potential shortage of staff and the people they relied on to drive their lorries, pick their fruit and do their hard work for them, they were fixated on the world trade situation and the tariffs they were facing to try and get the food across the oceans and to keep the shelves filled. Now the hard reality has hit them. That is the fact that the harsh form of Brexit pursued by Boris Johnson’s Government – which introduced stringent immigration policies and took Britain out of the EU market for goods and energy – has made it so much harder for British companies to hire the European workers they so badly need, and much more costly for them to do business with the country’s single biggest trading partner. It didn’t have to be this way – and the Brits were told this so many times. Worker shortages were not an inevitable outcome of Brexit, nor was going it alone on energy a must. But in Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s frantic rush to ‘get Brexit done’ – amid the frenzied negotiations with the European Union – those agreements in several crucial areas, including trade, labour and energy, had to be sidelined while the soundbytes in the media ruled the day. Those ever so wise Westminster bosses couldn’t act fast enough to unveil their new post-Brexit immigration system, clearly designed to reduce the numbers of unskilled workers coming to Britain and end what Boris said was the country’s “reliance on cheap, low-skilled labour”. This, despite the fact they already had a domestic unemployment rate in the region of just five per cent. The policy was just bonkers. The reality, as now seen in every supermarket and restaurant in the UK, is that the Government made a political decision to make low-skilled immigration more difficult, and are now paying the price in terms of labour shortages that could have been far less severe on the public if the UK had retained free movement of people post-Brexit. The saddest part of all is that they could well have easily achieved that in the negotiations – but of course they couldn’t get out the door quick enough in the end. There wasn’t much sympathy for them around the table in the Cricketers’ bar and restaurant last week. I believe that if the Brexit referendum was held again, the vast majority of the British people would vote to go back into the European Union. The tragedy is that the politicians have gone so far up the hill now, it is unlikely they will ever come back down. In the meantime, their dinner plates and shop shelves are becoming lonelier by the day. I hate to say I warned them, but...

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My ‘pet peeve’ with online activism Let’s talk about ... Instagram activism (A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy Pet pictures are a fixture when it comes to social media, but if you were scrolling through Instagram this week, you probably noticed even more of them than usual. This influx came about as a result of a viral prompt, which promised to plant one tree for every pet picture posted to Instagram with a specific ‘sticker’, linking all the photos into one public chain. The trend quickly went viral, and by Tuesday morning, it had amassed over 4.1 million responses. However, it soon became clear that there was uncertainty over the origins of the trend, and over who exactly was meant to be planting all these trees. Then, on November 9th (a week after the trend began), an account called Plant A Tree Co. emerged as being responsible for the trend, explaining that they’d deleted the original post within ten minutes of posting as they immediately realised it would grow too big and they wouldn’t have the resources to plant that many trees. They also announced

that they would be raising funds towards Trees For The Future in order to make use of the awareness they had garnered. Though at first glance this seemed a fair response to a well intentioned if ill-conceived prompt, it came out that Plant A Tree Co. has fallen short in similar campaigns in the past. This has led many Instagram users to speculate over whether the viral pet picture prompt ever had any validity to it in the first place. In all, the entire series of events was very indicative of how a certain type of ‘Instagram activism’ tends to play out. A strong social media presence can be an extremely valuable commodity. It’s why we see countless spam and bot accounts trying to stack up as much followers, likes, and engagement as possible through endless promotions. Additionally, the anonymity of a social media account can oftentimes be the perfect opportunity to not be held accountable for your side of the deal, which

leads to accounts feigning interest in social issues and making empty promises in exchange for valuable engagement. This phenomenon is not entirely unfamiliar – after all, fake charity scams have been around since forever – but it seems to thrive especially well on platforms like Instagram, where virtue signalling and social pressure is rife. Virtue signalling refers to the practice of publicly expressing opinions/sentiments in order to come across as someone with good character and a strong moral compass. Ultimately, it empties the meaning from social justice movements, shifting the focus onto how much someone cares about an issue instead of the issue itself. Social media can be a place of judgement and comparison, and this, coupled with today’s heightened emphasis on social responsibility, makes these platforms a place where virtue signalling flourishes. Given all of this virtue signalling and the internet’s short attention span, it’s easy to fear that online activism is doomed to fall victim to an endless cycle, one which churns out a new topic for people to care about for a week before the next thing comes along. As such, people often don’t have the time to get fully caught up and educated on the latest issues or the things they’re supporting, and yet feel a pressure to participate in the discussion anyways. This can contribute to misunderstanding and mis-

information, and can in fact do more harm than anything. In truth, the way in which activism plays out online often leaves a lot to be desired, though I do feel inclined to argue that a lot of its problems aren’t entirely new. Feigning concern for social issues, moral grandstanding, and failing to educate yourself are not problems that social media created, rather they are problems that social media has exacerbated. However, the same goes for many of the positive aspects of activism. Online activism affords an opportunity to convey information all over the world and reach millions, a feat that would not otherwise be possible. Fundraisers carried out online are exposed to more possible donators, who will likely share details of the project to their followers in turn, further boosting the response to worthy causes.

Additionally, since raising awareness is such a vital component when it comes to these issues, social media’s impact in doing this and in encouraging people to rally together for the sake of a better good cannot go understated. Four million trees will not be planted as a result of the pet

pictures trend, and this is undoubtedly disappointing. On the bright side however, the sheer magnitude of the public’s response in such a short amount of time speaks to the power of social platforms when it comes to shining a light on important issues – plus, the pictures were very cute.

Galway’s Christmas markets are back!

Coming in on the bus to college this week, it was nice to see Eyre Square once again in the midst of being decked out for Galway’s upcoming Christmas markets. The Christmas lights have been up around the streets in Galway for a few weeks (unlit, of course), but now preparations are almost complete. The wooden stalls are lined up along the walkways, and the 32-metre high big wheel is in place, overlooking the whole Square. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the markets didn’t go ahead last year, and it really was a pity because they are such a welcome addition to the Christmas calendar for many people. They will be open this weekend from 6 pm on Friday, November 12th, and will run through to December 22nd, so be sure to visit if you get a chance.

Men’s Group to launch with a Model Train Show! < DAN DOONER

The Roscommon Men’s Group, supported by Roscommon LEADER Partnership, is set to launch

later this month with a Model Train Show at its new premises in the Harrison Centre in Roscommon town. The group will also host a

Paul Coyle has kindly donated a model ‘Back to the Future’ DeLorean and model Ford Mustang to be raffled off later this month in aid of Roscommon Men’s Group, Lough Ree Access For All and South Roscommon Family Resource Centre.

raffle as part of the launch, with proceeds going towards the Lough Ree Access For All boat, South Roscommon Family Resource Centre, and running costs for the new group. Among the items to be raffled is a model ‘Back to the Future’ DeLorean and a model Ford Mustang, kindly donated by Paul Coyle. Ahead of the launch, Roscommon Men’s Group will hold its AGM next Monday (15th) and are now inviting new members to join. The group is also calling on those with an interest in model trains to get involved in the Train Show with further events to be planned in the New Year. Roscommon Men’s Group Secretary, Anthony Owens, said the group is already proving popular. “We have had a number of new members joining up with us recently and we

The Roscommon Men’s Group will host a raffle later this month with proceeds going towards the running of the club as well as two local causes, Lough Ree Access For All and South Roscommon Family Resource Centre. Members were pictured recently at the group’s temporary premises in the Harrison Centre, Roscommon town, with Dorothy Coyle (representing Lough Ree Access For All) and Sarah Brennan (South Roscommon Family Resource Centre).

are actively seeking more men to get involved. This is a social group, which is aimed at bringing men together to take part in various projects while also enabling them to spend time with like-minded people

in a welcoming environment,” he said. “The group will launch with the Model Toy Show at the end of November, on the day when the Christmas Lights are switched on Roscommon town

(usually the last Sunday in November). “There will be further events after Christmas, and current members have already expressed an interest in projects such as tractor restoration, upholstery, and

a number of other activities. “If you would like to join or know someone who would, please get in touch with the Roscommon Men’s Group on 0867807820”.

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TAKE A BREAK It’s been a GOOD week for...

The fight against Climate Change and Global Warming (in theory at least), with the UN Cop26 Summit continuing in Glasgow, and the Irish Government launching an extremely comprehensive Climate Action Plan

A total of 14 projects from five Roscommon secondary schools will feature at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2022 (BTYSTE) as organisers confirm that over 1,000 students will take part at the virtual exhibition, which runs from January 12th to 14th.

Roscommon/Mayo Hospice and the local community here, with the official opening of the new state-of-the-art Hospice Unit in Roscommon Town

14 Roscommon projects selected for BT Young Scientist Exhibition 2022

Johnny Sexton, with the veteran Irish rugby star marking his 100th test appearance with a fine individual display in Ireland’s crushing win over Japan (60-5) at the Aviva Stadium

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was forced into a humiliating u-turn following uproar over his party’s botched and arrogant handling of the suspension of Owen Paterson after the senior Tory was found to have breached rules on lobbying

Roscommon Convent of Mercy both have two each. Castlerea Community School and Roscommon CBS each have one project in contention. Entries were received from over 2,700 students and the shortlist spans 219 schools from 29 counties. Following the success of the first ever virtual BTYSTE, which reached more than 77 countries around the world in

January of this year, participants will once again compete on a virtual stage to both a national and international audience. This year, new and adapted technologies featured in a fifth (110) of all project entries across the four project categories – Social and Behavioural Science, Ecological Science, Technology, and Chemical, Physical and Mathematics

Science. In an ever-increasing digital world, students demonstrated their curiosity and imagination for new technologies and how they can assist in our daily lives, with projects ranging from assisted living devices to apps that help us live more sustainably. For more information on this fantastic family event, visit btyoungscientist.com, or follow @BTYSTE on social media.

Christmas exhibition at Solas Art Gallery

This year, Solas Art Gallery will host its members’ Christmas exhibition both online in the virtual gallery at kunstmatrix.com, and hanging for real in the gallery spaces at Solas Gallery, Ballinamore Main Street, above the Four Seasons Garden Centre. As usual, this Christmas Exhibition promises to be a diverse and eclectic mix of styles, mediums, and subject matter across the board, from our varied members from around the locality and also nationwide. Unfortunately, there will be no opening night due to Covid restrictions. The exhibition however will thankfully be available to view from 1 pm on Friday, November 19th, until mid-January, 2022. The public are more than welcome to drop into the gallery to enjoy this exhibition any day from Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm. There are four gallery spaces at Solas where you can browse at your leisure and enjoy the artwork in a peaceful, calm setting. For more information on this exhibition, or to subscribe to the mailing list and receive monthly invites to new exhibitions as well as current updates of events, including the online link to the virtual exhibition at kunstmatrix.com, visit our website, solasart.ie. For any other enquiries, call the gallery on 071-9644210. Pictured is ‘The Bay’ by Anita Marie Dougan.

It’s been a BAD week for...

Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan, whose accident-prone reputation won’t have been helped (however unfortunately) by him firstly cancelling a trip to the Cop26 conference because he had Covid, before then proceeding with the journey when a second test established that he doesn’t have the virus Struggling Premier League managers, with two more losing their jobs last weekend as Daniel Farke (Norwich) and Dean Smith (Aston Villa) were both sacked, bringing the mounting toll of early season Premier League managerial casualties to five…

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

Leonardo DiCaprio (American actor and film producer, turns 47 on Thursday)

Pictured is ‘Wildflowers’ by Marian O’Donoghue.

Pictured is ‘Cascade’ by Helena O’Connor.

Anne Hathaway (American actress, turns 39 on Friday)

Demi Moore (American actress and film producer, will be 59 on Thursday)

Whoopi Goldberg (American actress and comedian, turns 66 on Saturday)

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

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Mayo-Roscommon Hospice CEO Martina Jennings formally cuts the tape at the official opening of the new Hospice Unit. Photo: Michael McLoughlin

‘Great day’ as new 8-bed Roscommon Hospice opened

< DAN DOONER

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly pledged full funding for the operation and staffing of the new 8-bed Roscommon Hospice at the official opening on Friday last. The Roscommon Hospice, built at a cost of €6.3 million, is now fully paid for and was delivered under budget. Addressing Friday’s launch, Minister Donnelly said it was a great day for everyone involved and paid tribute to Mayo-Roscommon Hospice Foundation CEO Martina Jennings and Chairperson Mike Smith. “Thank you for everything you have done and to all our contributors. I’m really struck by an immense pride in the room and in everyone I’ve spoken to today about why we’re all here. It’s a culmination of decades of work,” he said. “I think it’s an opportunity for us to reflect on the extraordinary achievements of the MayoRoscommon Hospice Foundation through the support of staff, volunteers, and the support of the community in Roscommon. I’d also like to acknowledge the critical contributions of two of the founding directors, Dr. Bert Farrell and John Tully, who sadly passed away in recent years”. Minister Donnelly paid tribute to the “extraordinary community and wonderful people of Roscommon” for their contribution. He said the building was testament to the com-

munity and the goodwill of the people in the county. “I am delighted to be able to state officially that we are allocating full funding in the Budget and in the National Service Plan for the opening and full staffing for this Hospice,” Minister Donnelly announced to loud applause. Speaking at Friday’s launch, Mayo-Roscommon Hospice CEO, Martina Jennings, said the Minister’s announcement was worth waiting for after the initial opening date was put back by four weeks. She said the funding announcement meant the Foundation could now implement its five-year strategic plan next February. Paying tribute to all those who had made donations, Ms. Jennings said: “They’ve fundraised €15.5 million to build two Hospices. It is phenomenal to have this open within 18 months”. Ms. Jennings said there had been some “worrying times”, particularly in March and April of this year when the Foundation feared they would require a loan to finish the construction. “Our shops reopened and communities got behind us, particularly from May to September,” she said. Chairperson of Mayo-Roscommon Hospice, Mike Smith, paid tribute to all those involved in fundraising and the construction of the Hospice as well as palliative care teams. He said Friday was a proud day for the Foundation and paid a special tribute to late Castlerea man, John Tully, one of its founding members.

In a video message, US President Joe Biden said he hoped those who used the facility would find peace there. Referring to a family visit to Ireland in 2016 in the wake of his son Beau’s death, the President said: “Beau’s name is etched into the tapestry of the Mayo Hospice and that is something my family and I, and his children in particular will never, ever forget”. Local Minister of State Frank Feighan paid tribute to former Hospice CEO Cynthia Clampett and said the Roscommon Palliative Care Support Unit was representative of the “many years of positive engagement between voluntary and public sectors”. “It shows how powerful the community spirit and altruism, that dwells within our rural community here, are. Everyone involved should be especially proud of their achievement in getting this care support unit up and running,” he said. Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Joe Murphy, said the new facility is completed to a very high standard and testament to the people of Roscommon and Mayo coming together. He added everyone had been impacted in some way by illness and that the new Hospice would allow families to spend time with loved ones. Last Friday’s event commenced with a performance by well-known singer, Tommy Fleming, who sang ‘Bright Blue Rose’ and ‘I’m Watching Over You’.

What’s in the new Roscommon Hospice? The new €6.3 million Roscommon Hospice is an 8-bed in-patient facility which also includes day care services. In the day care section of the building, there will be physical and occupational therapy, child therapy, a group therapy room, aromatherapy, and personal services such as hairdressing. The in-patient side of the building will feature an oratory, which can be used to host family events such as weddings, Communions, and Confirmations. Each of the eight bedrooms will have its own garden and patio and beds can be moved outside into the grounds. The facility also has a family sitting room which can host family movie nights and allow families to be together. There will also be a family accommodation room for those who wish to stay with loved ones who are receiving end-of-life care.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

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President Biden sends his congratulations < DAN DOONER

US President Joe Biden recorded a video message for those in attendance at Friday’s official opening of Roscommon Hospice. President Biden, a cousin of Mayo-Roscommon Hospice fundraiser Laurita Blewitt, turned the sod on the Mayo Hospice in 2017. The US President described his 2017 visit as a “deeply moving experience”. “I got to meet so many of you: doctors, nurses, counsellors and volunteers. In each of you I saw the values of your community; love, selflessness, compassion – that’s what Hospice represents. It’s a place where dignity, empathy, and support are shown to all. “I know this special place will bring comfort to the proud people of counties Mayo and Roscommon, and for me, it will always have a special place in my heart,” he said. President Biden and his family also visited Ireland in 2016, shortly after the death of his son Beau, who passed away following a twoyear battle with cancer.

“As many of you know, when my family travelled to Ireland in 2016, we felt so much love and joy. It was also bittersweet since it was a trip I had hoped to share with my son Beau, to (go there) together to touch the soil of our Irish roots and our family’s history and heritage. “The fact that you have etched Beau’s name in memory into the tapestry of this Hospice is something my family and I and his children in particular will never, ever forget,” he said. President Biden quoted Irish poet WB Yeats and said he prayed those who are cared for in Roscommon Hospice find peace. “In the words of Yeats in ‘The Lake Isle of Innisfree’: ‘I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree…And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow’. “For all those who come to this Hospice in the future, I pray that they and their families will find peace here. “For peace comes dropping slowly, but it comes. It comes. God bless you all. I’m anx- Pictured at the official opening of the new Roscommon Hospice Unit were Adrian Leddy and Joan and John O’Gara. Photo: Mick McCormack ious to visit,” he concluded.

Chairperson: ‘Hospices built without a cent borrowed or owed’ < DAN DOONER

Pictured at the official opening of the new Roscommon Hospice Unit were Mary McDermott and Lily and John Murphy. Photo: Mick McCormack

Minister’s ‘cut and dash’ at Hospice opening! < DAN DOONER

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly certainly wasn’t sticking around on Friday last following the ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the new Roscommon Hospice Unit in the county town. While it is certainly no reflection on the organisers of Friday’s smoothly run event – who couldn’t have been more cooperative – the Minister did not deliver on a promise for a a 15-minute press briefing before the official opening. The agreed time of 1.45 pm was pushed back until after the speeches and the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, but Minister Donnelly failed to show in the new Hospice boardroom, denying journalists the opportunity to enquire about the fight against Covid-19 as well as local health services. It is accepted, of course, that a health portfolio during a global pandemic places enormous pressure and time constraints on the incumbent. However, the chance to put questions to a senior minister doesn’t come around too often for newspapers and radio stations in County Roscommon. While the local media stared longingly at trays of fresh sandwiches graciously laid on for the Ministerial Q&A, their questions regarding the possibility of further Covid restrictions, the public’s faith in the vaccination programme, booster jabs, and local queries such as the funding for the e-Mental Health Hub in Castlerea, sadly went unanswered.

Chairperson of MayoRoscommon Hospice, Mike Smith, welcomed the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly and all those involved in the development of Roscommon Hospice to last Friday’s official opening, and announced that both Hospice buildings (Roscommon and Castlebar) had been built at a total cost of €15.5 million “without a cent borrowed or owed”. He said the Roscommon Hospice site purchase was agreed in a matter of hours “thanks to the generous and agreeable nature of the Hannon family” and paid tribute to his own family for their support throughout the project. “We all know cancer and other illnesses are not going away and the work of this board and future boards will not end today. While we now have two excellent Hospices in Mayo and Roscommon, the board will be launching a five-year strategy plan in February 2022 and our fundraising efforts will be ongoing as we continue to raise money for these services,” he said. Mr. Smith said that it had been a real pleasure to work alongside current Hospice CEO Martina Jennings. “During this entire process, we were incredibly lucky to have at the helm of our Foundation, our CEO Martina Jennings. Her incredible enthusiasm, work ethic, can-do attitude and positive energy has helped

Pictured at the official opening of the new Roscommon Hospice Unit were Martina Jennings (CEO, Mayo-Roscommon Hospice), Mike Smith (Chairperson of Mayo-Roscommon Hospice), Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly and Deputy Frank Feighan. Photo: Mick McCormack

bring us to where we are today. She has no coordinated the building of two Hospices while continuing to run the Foundation at an outstandingly high level,” he said.

The Hospice Chairperson paid tribute to board members past and present and the people of Mayo and Roscommon, including support groups, volunteers, donors, and mem-

bers the general public. “Those of you who have walked, climbed, jumped, dyed your hair, shaved your heads, cut your beards, completed marathons, singathons, quizzed,

golfed, danced all day, made tea, coffee, cakes, buns, tarts, sold tickets, stood at churches, and donated your pocket money, we welcome you all here. It is all your efforts we are recognising here with the opening of this magnificent facility,” he said. “For over 28 years you have donated to this dream without any tangible evidence of a building or site until 2012 when the Castlebar ground was acquired. It is remarkable the trust you’ve put in the Foundation, and now we’re very proud to be the biggest Hospice bed provider in the west of Ireland. “With the cost of both Hospices approximately €15.5 million, I’m delighted to be able to announce that both have been built and fitted out without a cent borrowed or owed”.

The striking monument at the entrance to the new Hospice Unit in Roscommon Town, which was officially unveiled to the public last Friday. Photo: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

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A proud day for Mayo and Roscommon Hospice CEO Martina on ‘priceless gift’ for community < DAN DOONER

Mayo-Roscommon Hospice CEO Martina Jennings described last Friday’s event as “a proud day for the people of Mayo and Roscommon”, who she said had fundraised €15.5 million to build two Hospices in the west of Ireland. “What’s been great in the last few years is that the people of Mayo got behind the people of Roscommon. They didn’t decide once their own hospice was built that they would forget about Roscommon. Today is a feeling of relief as well as pride,” she said. Reacting to Health Minister Stephen Donnelly’s announcement that ‘full funding’ would be provided for Roscommon Hospice, the Hospice CEO said: “Staffing will come in under the Saolta Group and to be fair to Tony Canavan and Mary Garvey (RUH), they’re going to take full responsibility for that. We had looked for funding up on €1.9 million so we’re hoping that’s what he (the Minister) meant when he said full funding today”. Earlier in the day, Martina Jennings had delivered an emotional speech, describing the official opening as a “gathering of the Hospice family to celebrate the realisation of a vision of care for our loved ones and neighbours”. “In 1993, a small group of people led by Dr. Bert Farrell and Cathal Hughes founded the Mayo-Roscommon Hospice Foundation and the people of both counties responded to their vision and

Pictured at the official opening of the new Roscommon Hospice Unit were Deputy Frank Feighan, Martina Jennings (CEO, MayoRoscommon Hospice), Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, and Mike Smith (Chairperson of Mayo-Roscommon Hospice). Photo: Jenny Glynn

the belief that the end of life deserves as much beauty, care and respect as the beginning of life,” she said. “Today we are all delighted to celebrate the completion of our new Hospice building. It is a fabulous facility of which we are all proud but it is only a building. It is with the care, expertise and love that those who work in it will invest that it becomes a wonderful, priceless gift to our community”. The Hospice CEO thanked volun-

teers, fundraisers and donors, and remembered those members of support groups who had passed away, saying their memory lived on in the new building. “Today is the culmination of nearly three decades’ work and I would like to especially thank Cynthia Clampett, our former CEO, for her commitment of over twenty years and for engaging and convincing those in our health service and public representatives of what

could be achieved here in Roscommon,” she said. Ms. Jennings thanked public representatives for their support as well as Tony Canavan of the Saolta Group and staff and administrators at Roscommon University Hospital and regional palliative care specialists. The Hospice CEO also expressed her gratitude to contractors involved in the project for completing the work on time as well as local residents and the

‘A case study in partnership working’ < DAN DOONER

Pictured at the official opening of the new Roscommon Hospice Unit were Deputy Dara Calleary, Senator Eugene Murphy and Cllr. Marty McDermott. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pictured at the official opening of the new Roscommon Hospice Unit on Friday were Seamus Hayden, Eamonn Smith and Martin Carty. Photo: Mick McCormack

Hannon family and the wider Hospice community. “We will continue to fund, support and develop palliative care services in our Hospices, hospitals and the community, and we look forward to launching our five-year strategy in 2022,” she said. Ms. Jennings concluded her opening remarks by paying tribute to her own family, and particularly her parents who had been instrumental in setting up the first private rooms for cystic fibrosis patients in Ireland. “It is in our DNA as a family to serve our communities and push through barriers to help those that need it,” she said. “I was so delighted when I got this position four years ago and it is so much more than a job for me. Hospice is something I believe in. I know the difference it makes in people’s lives. As a family, we lost our mother to a life-limiting illness 28 years ago in the very same month this Foundation was founded. “When I started in Mayo-Roscommon Hospice, I discussed with dad (Tony O’Toole), my determination to get both Hospices built in four years and without the need for a loan. It took many sleepless nights and seven-day working weeks, and I can do that because of the love and support of my family, especially Jarlath, Rachel and Iarla as well as dad, Olive, Caroline, Anthony, Maria, Billy and my extended family. “Devastatingly, four weeks ago, following a very short illness, dad passed away, receiving the very best of palliative care. He was my strongest advisor, the biggest influence in my life and my proudest supporter. So I will finish by saying…we did it dad”.

The CEO of the Saolta University Health Group, Tony Canavan, said the construction of the Hospice was a “case study in partnership working” and a very important day for the Saolta Group. “We work in a complex environment but it’s about bringing people together with one vision and one objective,” he said before thanking those who had engaged in the project. General Manager of Roscommon University Hospital, Mary Garvey, said that while her staff provides excellent care within the hospital and community, that care would be enhanced by the new Hospice facility. She also highlighted November 6th as the 80th anniversary of Roscommon Hospital, which was built in 1941 and resulted in patients being moved from the old Roscommon Infirmary (now the County Library) to the new hospital. Director of Palliative Care at Galway University Hospital, Professor Dympna Waldron, described Roscommon Hospice as “a first” in integrated palliative care and said that while it carries

certain negative connotations, seven out of ten people receiving palliative care return home after treatment. “I’d like to go through a few myths that I’d like to dissipate. The first thing I’d like to say is: we should always be led by the patient. If we are led by the patient in front of us, we can’t get it wrong. “Palliative care is about living and living well despite advanced disease…90 per cent of our day involves getting people well so that they can go home, 10 per cent is where people are actively dying. We are not an ‘end-of-life’ (service) only. If we were called support care rather than palliative care it would help,” she said. Clinical Director of Medicine and Consultant Geriatrician at Roscommon University Hospital, Dr. Gerry O’Meara, said he was first informed of plans for Roscommon just two years ago and praised Mayo-Roscommon Hospice CEO Martina Jennings for her efforts. “We were all in a room and the plans were laid out. There was no site, no plan, and we all said ‘Yeah, right! It’s not going to happen’. And yet here we are. I

was going to say it to the Minister (Stephen Donnelly) that if he wanted a maternity hospital built on time and in particular, under budget, here’s the lady (Martina Jennings),” he said. Dr. O’Meara said that while the unit is classified as a Palliative Care Support Unit, he preferred to see it as ‘Hospice Plus’. “We were talking about this earlier on and like what Dympna (Waldron) said, 70 per cent of people will go home from a palliative care unit. They come in for symptom control or respite. If you have an unfortunate 39-year-old woman with kids, for example, who has come in to get some pain relief and who still has a good quality of life... if that person gets pneumonia or something, they won’t have to be sent to an Emergency Department to get intravenous antibiotics or other treatment, they’ll be dealt with here. “So rather than just being a palliative care support unit, I would see it as a ‘Hospice Plus’ because we can do more than what is going on in a Hospice. It’s a win-win for everyone and we are all delighted to get involved,” he said.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

FarmingPeople Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

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ICMSA: Surging fertiliser costs burning through better output prices While output prices for most farm commodities did increase during 2021, the President of ICMSA has said that the benefits of these long-overdue price increases are being completely wiped out due to an across-the-board surge in farm input costs. Pat McCormack said the most concerning rise in price is that in relation to fertiliser, and he called for immediate action at EU Commission level to reduce the cost. “It’s very clear now that the cost of fertiliser in 2022 will not only wipe out any gains made through better output prices received by family farms this year but will actually burn all the way through those gains and out the ‘other side’ into net losses,” he said. “Fertiliser is the most alarming, but we’re also looking at costs surges in feed, energy and diesel as well and all due to factors completely outside the control of farmers. The issues and uncertainty

President of the ICMSA Pat McCormack.

around gas prices impact on all sectors of society, but has a particular inflationary effect on fertiliser production costs and that has to be recognised and rectified very quickly. “In addition, the EU must remove all trade barriers that are adding additional costs to fertiliser customers and support measures must be put in place to recognise the increased costs on the primary producer”. Mr. McCormack said there was no real point in highlighting the high out-

put prices or citing CSO reports if the rising costs of food production is ignored. “It’s no good getting a milk price of 37cpl up from 32cpl if the costs of producing that litre have gone by a greater margin. Either output prices increase further to reflect increased production costs or input costs have got to be halted and reversed or else the whole economics of farming fall. Immediate action is required at EU level on this matter,” concluded Mr. McCormack.

their incomes are under such pressure”. Tim Cullinan said we cannot approach climate policy with a silo mentality. Carbon leakage, food security and farmers’ livelihoods must be fully integrated into the plan.

“The Government must now engage in meaningful negotiation with elected farmer leaders to make a plan for the sector that can contribute to emissions reduction, but which does not impact on farmer’s livelihoods. In addition, proper funding must be in place to help farmers implement climate action measures,” he said. “The frustration for farmers is that they know that if less food is produced in Ireland, it will be produced elsewhere, with a higher carbon footprint. “The world’s population is growing and will likely increase from 7.5 billion today to 10 billion by 2050. More food will be needed, not less,” he said. IFA is calling on all farm families to come to Dublin on Sunday, November 21st to send a strong message to the Government that a proper plan needs to be put in place for the sector at farm level, which addresses economic, social and environmental sustainability.

Castlerea MART WATCH As we enter November, numbers of stock presented for sale remain strong with increased numbers of breeding stock coming on stream. The heifer trade, with better quality lots on offer, reported a good clearance with increased demand evident this week. The weanling trade reported variance between the quality lots and the plainer type calves with better demand for the heifer weanlings than the bulls. Breeding stock made up to €2,220 for cows with calves at foot while the springers made up to €1,940, and the dry cow trade remained firm with prices peaking at €1,890. 300 bullocks presented for sale on Monday, November 1st with trade holding well, especially for the quality store. Heavier lots made up to €1,740. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday 11th) when we hold our sale of heifer, cows, calves runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am. Sample prices for heifers: Lm 415kgs €1150, Lm 405kgs €1020, Lm 480kgs €1340, Lm 430kgs €1220, AA 775kgs €1730, Lm 605kgs €1660, Lm 655kgs €1590, Sim 475kgs €1190, Ch 440kgs €1190. Dry cows: AAX 840kgs €830, Lm 760kgs €1790, Her 815kgs €1550, Her 690kgs €1450, AA 695kgs €1370. Weanling bulls: Lm 295kgs €1140, Lm 235kgs €1000, Lm 285kgs €940, Lm 275kgs €860, Lm 360kgs €1200, Ch 375kgs €1060, AA 525kgs €1080. Weanling heifers: Sim 255kgs €900, Ch 295kgs €900, BB 315kgs €1600, Ch 340kgs €1280, Ch 370kgs €1260, Ch 305kgs €1100, Lm 360kgs €1040, Ch 330kgs €880. Bullocks: Lm 470kgs €1290, Lm 435kgs €1270, Ch 475kgs €1270, Ch 545kgs €1430, Ch 520kgs €1400, Ch 535kgs €1300, Ch 550kgs €1440, Ch 725kgs €1740, Ch 690kgs €1680, Ch 610kgs €1540, Ch 615kgs €1400.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

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IFA: Taoiseach’s comments on KPMG Report are extraordinary IFA President Tim Cullinan said it was extraordinary to hear Taoiseach Michéal Martin dismiss an independent report by KPMG into the impact of emissions ceilings on farming as ‘scaremongering’, while the Government hasn’t yet done an economic impact assessment themselves. Tim Cullinan said the report commissioned by the Irish Farmers Journal, and carried out by KPMG, shows what the economic impact of various sectoral emissions ceilings would be, including the 21-30 per cent range

reported to be the ceiling for agriculture the Government is planning to impose. IFA says the conclusion is that a 21 per cent emissions cut would result in 10,000 job losses, while a 30 per cent cut would result in over 56,000 job losses and reduced output of nearly €4 billion. “We have repeatedly asked for such an exercise to be carried out by our Government, but they have refused to do so. Michéal Martin is shooting in the dark and he has no idea what the economic or social impact of these ceilings

will be in rural areas,” he said. “If anything, the KPMG report might underestimate the impact of carbon budgets on farmers as it does not factor in the cost increases for energy and transport which farmers will also have to carry”. Mr. Cullinan questioned the effectiveness of proposed ceilings: “The question the Taoiseach needs to answer is: if he doesn’t agree with the KPMG analysis, what impact does he think the Government’s proposed emissions ceilings will

have on the sector?” The IFA President said farmers are genuinely concerned about what this will mean for their livelihoods and they have been looking for straight answers which tell them what they could be facing. “I want to reiterate again that the Government should stop trying to communicate with farmers over the airwaves, or indeed across mart rings. Instead, they should sit down with elected farm leaders to make a proper plan for the sector,” he concluded.

McConalogue concludes CAP consultation tour in Castlerea today (Thursday) < DAN DOONER

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue will conclude his Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) Consultation Tour in Castlerea this evening (Thursday 11th). The Minister has confirmed that he will speak at Castlerea Livestock Mart at 8 pm as he brings his nationwide tour to an end. Ireland’s CAP Strategic

Plan must be submitted before January 1st of next year in order to have the new CAP in place for January 2023. “I have enjoyed meeting as many farmers as possible - I want to put farm families at the centre of this CAP. This is farmers’ CAP and I want to hear from farmers in every county,” Minister McConalogue said. “Earlier this year, I committed to bringing this CAP to every calving

shed, every milking parlour, every tillage field, and every farm kitchen table and this has been another step in that commitment to farm families. “While time is tight, there is still time for farmers to have their voices heard in these hugely historic CAP reforms, and we have just opened another public consultation on the draft environmental report on the proposed CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027,” he concluded.

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Winter Special Sale of Heifers Friday, November 12th at 11a.m. Also Bullocks and Dry Cows 91 pens of Heifers on offer Yard opens at 7.30 a.m. Stock to be penned by 9.30 a.m. ----------------------

Special Sale of Bullocks Friday, November 19th at 11 a.m. Also Heifers and Dry Cows Bookings accepted up until 5 o clock on Monday, 15th November ----------------------

End of the Month Special Sale of Heifers Friday, November 26th at 11 a.m. Also Bullocks & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up until 5 o clock on Monday, 22nd November

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Mid-Winter Special Sale of Weanlings Tuesday, November 16th at 4 p.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, November 11th ---------------------Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue

Roscommon MART WATCH Numbers on offer remained high again this week with prices holding firm for quality lots and plainer quality lots a little more difficult to sell. Customers were active both online and at the ringside, resulting in a good clearance of lots. Up on fifty cows were presented for sale, with lots fetching from €1.84 per kilo up to €2.36 per kilo. Bullocks averaged from €2.45 per kilo up to €3.29 per kilo, and heifers made from an average of €2.21 per kilo up to €2.61 per kilo. On Friday next, November 12th, we will have a special sale of heifers and general sale of bullocks and dry cows. There was a big entry of excellent quality stock on offer at our show and sale of weanlings held on Tuesday, November 9th. Trade was brisk for quality lots, while the lesser type weanlings a bit more difficult to sell. Buyers remain anxious for stock, with a good number at the ringside in addition to customers buying online. Prices for bulls averaged from €2.64 per kilo up to €6.27 per kilo for a Char X weighing 360kgs, which fetched €2,260, while weanling heifers made from an average of €2.74 per kilo up to €11.93 per kilo for a BBX weighing 295kgs and making €3,520. On Tuesday, November 16th, we will have our mid-winter special sale of weanlings, with a special entry of thirty in-calf springers cows and ten cows with strong calves at foot. Bookings will be accepted until 5 pm on Thursday, November 11th.

(Proudly serving farmers for over 62 years)

There was a larger entry on offer at our weekly sale for lambs and cast ewes on November 10th, with an improvement in trade from the previous week. Finished lambs made up to €172, store lambs made up to €130, and stag ewes made up to €150. Sales continue as usual on Wednesday, November 17th. 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. Sample prices for dry cows: Lim X 865kgs €1950, Lim X 840kgs €1860, Simm X 790kgs €1830, Char X 830kgs €1780, SHX 800kgs €1710, Lim X 730kgs €1640, Lim 610kgs €1200, Lim X 755kgs €1360, Simm X 725kgs €1450, Lim X 585kgs €1090, Lim X 730kgs €1500, Lim X 555kgs €1000, Lim X 730kgs €1640. Heifers: Lim X 670kgs €1540, Lim 605kgs €1460, Simm X 565kgs €1290, Lim X 590kgs €1290, Char X 535kgs €1130, Lim X 365kgs €850, Char X 410kgs €990, Simm X 390kgs €1030, BBX 450kgs €1080. Bullocks: Char X 905kgs €2130, Char X 830kgs €1980, Char X 865kgs €1920, Char X 585kgs €1850, Char X 750kgs €1900, Lim X 710kgs €1900, Lim X 680kgs €1870, Lim X 600kgs €1840, Char X 575kgs €1760, Char X 650kgs €1760, Char X 560kgs €1800, Char X 585kgs €1830, 2 Lim X 605kgs €1750, Lim X 520kgs €1610, 3 Char X 580kgs €1550, BAX 490kgs €1480, AAX 615kgs €1410, 2 Char X 457kgs

€1330, BBX 490kgs €1310, Char X 470kgs €1300, Char X 405kgs €1100, Char X 430kgs €1160, Char X 475kgs €1260, Lim X 480kgs €1470. Weanling heifers: BBX 295kgs €3520 - €11.93 per kilo, Lim X 420kgs €2900 €6.90 per kilo, Lim X 400kgs €2120 - €5.30 per kilo, BBX 370kgs €1700 - €4.59 per kilo, Char X 345kgs €1670 - €4.84 per kilo, BBX 385kgs €1460 - €3.79 per kilo, Char X 310kgs €960 - €3.09 per kilo, Lim X 265kgs €1010 - €3.81 per kilo, Char X 295kgs €980 - €2.96 per kilo, Char X 295kgs €960 - €3.25 per kilo, BBX 355kgs €900 - €2.53 per kilo, Char X 285kgs €880 - €3.08 per kilo. Weanling bulls: Char X 360kgs €2260 €6.27 per kilo, Lim X 480kgs €1500 - €3.12 per kilo, BBX 350kgs €1420, Char X 360kgs €1320 - €3.66 per kilo, Char X 305kgs €1100 - €3.60 per kilo, Char X 375kgs €1240 - €3.30 per kilo, Char X 345kgs €1210 – €3.50 per kilo, Char X 345kgs €1090 - €3.15 per kilo, Char X 275kgs €1080 – €3.92 per kilo, Char X 300kgs €1010 - €3.36 per kilo, Char X 340kgs €980 - €2.88 per kilo, BAX 345kgs €940 - €2.72 per kilo, Simm X 365kgs €860. Finished lambs: 60.4kgs €172, 51.4kgs €169, 57kgs €168, 55.6kgs €166, 52.5kgs €165, 50kgs €164, 48.9kgs €158, 49kgs €158, 46kgs €152. Store lambs: 38.5kgs €130, 40.3kgs €130, 42kgs €126, 40.3kgs €124, 36.4kgs €123, 36.8kgs €115, 34.4kgs €114, 36.5kgs €112, 37.3kgs €109.

Tuesday, November 16th at 5.30 p.m.

Special Entry of 10 in calf Springers (3rd Calvers up ) In calf to P.B. Char Bull – some with 4- & 5-Stars due end of Feb/March 20 in Calf Springers (3rd Calvers up) Lim X, Simm X & Char X in calf to P.B. Char Bull due January onwards & 10 Cows with Strong calves at foot ----------------------

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

Saturday, November 13th at 6 p.m.

Knockcroghery Belclares Dispersal Sale 40 in Lamb Stock Ewes, 23 Ewe Lambs 7 Pedigree Dutch Spotted Ewe Lambs, 1 Commercial Dutch Spotted Ewe Lamb 2 Pedigree Belclare Stock Rams ----------------------

Saturday, November 20th

Premier Show & Sale of Pedigree Shorthorns 70 lots on offer

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

Business

Roscommon scientist reflects on two decades of water improvements As Executive Scientist Marie Finneran passes work on the Roscommon Town Main Drainage Scheme every morning, she can’t help but remark on the county’s improvements in water and wastewater infrastructure. During the past two decades working for the local authority, she says she has seen some “fantastic improvements”. “Working on different projects over the years and seeing schemes come off the Remedial Action List is just brilliant. Looking at the improvements that have been made to the statistics and compliance is fantastic,” she said. As Roscommon County Council’s newest recruit

in 2000, Marie was tasked with optimising the performance of new wastewater plants in Roscommon Town, Monksland, Boyle, and Ballaghaderreen. Since then there has been €20 million invested in Roscommon town set to safeguard the environment and provide for future growth of the town. “It’s brilliant to see Irish Water’s investment in the county and knowing all the improvements that are being made here,” Marie said. After graduating with a degree in Environmental Science from Sligo IT, Marie spent the first ten years of her career working with the Central Fisheries Board (now known

as Inland Fisheries Ireland). But then came a proposal from a fellow Roscommon man and soon after she secured a job with Roscommon County Council. As the Environmental Technician, it was Marie’s job to get them up and running and she revelled in the challenge. With the plants in operation, she was tasked with the job of obtaining and analysing samples from Roscommon’s 20 plus wastewater treatment plants and spent ten years travelling the length and breath of the county. “I loved being out on site. I got to know all the caretakers and I was called

upon if there were any issues,” she added. But never one to rest on her laurels, Marie sought a new challenge and moved into the local authority’s environmental department. There she turned her attention to quality controls and worked on the FOG (Fats, Oils and Grease) Programme. At the time, approximately 50 grease licences were issued in the county and Marie set about engaging with plant caretakers and calling to premises to ensure the licence rules were been adhered to. “Initially, I looked at the sewers downstream from the licence locations and called to the licence holders to ensure they had all

their paperwork in place. Then I set up a database and twice a year I called to the licence holders and took pictures of the sewers in the same locations to track any grease build up,” she said. In 2014, she was appointed manager of the Shannon Basin District Laboratory before becoming head of the Roscommon Laboratory when the two amalgamated later that year. It’s in that laboratory that all of Roscommon’s drinking water and wastewater analysis takes place, where river samples are tested, analysis is carried out for Leitrim, Longford and Offaly as well as testing of private wells. Marie’s role might have

Executive Scientist Marie Finneran.

changed over the years, but her end goal remains the same. She’s proud of the improvements made in Roscommon as Irish Water and the local au-

thority work together to continuously upgrade and develop critical infrastructure to deliver public water and wastewater services to the community.

Sidero invests €4.5m and creates 75 jobs in Athlone < DAN DOONER

Software, cloud and digital transformation specialist Sidero has announced the creation of 75 jobs at its Athlone base over the next two years as part of a €4.5 million investment. The company is also launching a new consulting division within the business, which currently employs 150 people and has its headquarters in Monksland, Co. Roscommon. The company will be hiring in the areas of multi-cloud and software development across Java and front-end technologies in response to increased customer demand. The new roles will also include graduate positions as part of Sidero’s graduate placement programme. The company has strong links with local third-level institutions, including the newly opened Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), and has invested more than €1 million in the initiative since 2018. Sidero’s Chief Executive Officer, Carmel Owens, said: “The creation of these new jobs will enhance Sidero’s capabilities in the fast-growing area of digital transformation. We are seeing an increasing demand for these services from our customers, and the expansion of our team with critical skills across cloud and

Brazilian Ambassador Marcel Fortuna Biato recently met with staff at Kepak Athleague including a number of Brazilian workers, who are members of the local community, as part of his recent visit to County Roscommon.

Kevin Sherry, Executive Director, Enterprise Ireland; Minister Robert Troy TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Trade Promotion and Carmel Owens, CEO, Sidero pictured following Sidero’s recent announcement of 75 new jobs in Athlone.

software development will drive this growth and build on Sidero’s track record of delivering always. “We are also delighted to be extending our graduate programme, as Sidero is committed to collaborating with the education sector to develop the next generation of engineers, developers and consultants in Ireland, while helping to narrow the technology skills gap. “Our Athlone base continues to offer key advantages for attracting and retaining the highest quality talent with lower cost of living, improved work/life balance and easier commutes. “With the need for quality technical talent at an all-time high, Sidero is also delighted to announce the launch of our new Consulting Services division. Our growing team will provide

our customers with the skills and expertise they need at every stage of their digital transformation journeys”. The announcement has been welcomed by local public representatives and Enterprise Ireland. Minister of State with responsibility for Trade Promotion Robert Troy said it was a significant milestone for the company. “Regional development is a key milestone for this Government and working with our agency Enterprise Ireland the announcement of these new jobs will come as a further economic boost to the Midlands. I am reassured by Sidero’s commitment to playing its part in cultivating the next generation of IT workers, as it extends its graduate programme and cements its relationships with third-level

institutions in the region,” he said. Kevin Sherry, Executive Director, Enterprise Ireland said: “Enterprise Ireland has worked closely with Sidero, both in Ireland and internationally, since 2013 and is delighted to support its expansion in Athlone. “Sidero’s growing presence in Athlone will make a very important contribution to prosperity in the region and further highlights the positioning of Ireland as a key centre of excellence for communications software and cloud technology. “We look forward to continuing to work with Carmel Owens and the Sidero team to support their global ambition as they focus on expanding their reach with international customers in export markets and deliver new jobs here in Ireland”.

Brazilian Ambassador in Kepak visit Brazilian Ambassador Marcel Fortuna Biato recently met with staff at Kepak Athleague including a number of Brazilian workers, who are members of the local community, as part of his recent visit to County Roscommon. Commenting on his visit to Kepak, Mr. Biato said: “I have just concluded a very productive visit to the Kepak factory in

Athleague, in Roscommon. It was a special pleasure to meet the staff, including a number of Brazilians whose skills are highly regarded. Their work highlights the Brazilian Community’s contribution to the local economy and points to wider potential for Ireland and Brazil to join forces on a wide range of issues of common interest”.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

NewsPeople

Irish Times columnist to launch ‘See Her Elected’ guidebook Irish Times columnist Kathy Sheridan will be the guest speaker at the launch of a new guidebook from See Her Elected to assist female candidates running in the 2024 Local Elections. ‘SHE: A Guidebook to Running in the 2024 Local Elections’ will be launched via a live zoom webinar event in Longford Women’s Link on Friday, November 12th, at 12.30 pm. The book will be officially launched by well- known author and Irish Times Journalist Kathy Sheridan. Minister of State at the Department of Local Government and Planning Peter Burke will also be a guest speaker. See Her Elected is a grassroots organisation built on the ethos of women learning and supporting each other with a specific focus on the Midlands and North West. SHE

is a collaboration between Longford Women’s Link and 5050North West, and the programme is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The new publication aims to be a practical, user-friendly guide for women who are considering running in the 2024 Local Elections. The guidebook offers a wealth of information, with everything from organising your finances to selecting your kitchen table team and campaign manager, how to deal with the media, raising your profile, canvassing and so much more. To accompany the SHE Guidebook to Running in the 2024 Local Elections, a series of free, online, interactive, one-hour workshops from See Her Elected will work through this guidebook chapter by chapter with groups of women in each county in the region.

The first series of workshops is starting this November and running until May 2022. The co-authors of the Guidebook are Dr Michelle Maher (Programme Manager with See Her Elected), Mairead O’Shea (Communications Consultant with See Her Elected) and Kathleen O’Meara (Public Affairs Consultant). You can register for the free live zoom webinar for the launch of ‘SHE: A Guidebook to Running in the 2024 Local Elections’ by logging onto us02web.zoom. us/j/84885274189. Copies of the new publication will be available to participants of the SHE online workshops, designed to accompany the book, while an e-book version of the publication will also be available to download free of charge from the SHE website, seeherelected.ie.

Roscommon supporters pictured at the All-Ireland Masters Plate final against Cavan in Drumlish on Saturday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Midlands-Northwest MEP Maria Walsh recently paid a visit to Ballinasloe where she met with Helen Butler, Youth Work Ireland, and Senator Aisling Dolan.

MEP Maria Walsh in tour of Ballinasloe area Midlands-Northwest MEP Maria Walsh recently paid a visit to Ballinasloe, attending a presentation by TUS (Technological University of the Shannon), and joining local Senator Aisling Dolan on a tour of ‘The Living Bog’. Speaking after the TUS presentation at the Shearwater Hotel, which included speakers such as TUS Business Development and Work Placement Manager, Declan Doran, MEP Walsh said: “The presentation was extremely informative and it was amazing to hear the connections going on in the constituency. There are endless opportunities to upskill and reskill. Lifelong learning is at the core of the work TUS Midlands do”. MEP Walsh joined Senator Aisling Dolan for a tour of the ‘The Living

Bog’ raised bog restoration project in Mountbellew. Admiring the beauty of the scenery, MEP Walsh said: “It’s amazing what happens when communities come together. This is a beautiful and noteworthy place. It’s one I really look forward to championing in the future”. The MEP finished her tour on Friday last in the Europe Direct Library in Ballinasloe, where she was impressed with the range of Europe-focused resources available. “This is a fantastic place to meet in Ballinasloe. They are prepping for their Comic-Con weekend. I look forward to hosting an event in the Europe Direct library based on the Conference on The Future of Europe very shortly,” she concluded.

‘Creating Our Future’ virtual event in Roscommon town

Support for nursing and midwifery students welcomed

< DAN DOONER

Cllr. Tom Crosby has welcomed confirmation that a Pandemic Placement Grant of €100 per week will be extended to all eligible nursing and midwifery students on placement for this academic year, and backdated to September. This is part of proposals finally approved to provide €12 million in additional supports for student nurses and midwives on placements, following the recent protest held outside Leinster House. Responding, Cllr. Crosby said: “Student nurses have been at the coalface of the Covid-19 pandemic for little or no financial gain, working in highly stressful environments and often looking after five or six patients at one time. “After over eighteen months, it is only right and just that they be rewarded – and generously so – for their long hours and support, both physical and emotional, to their patients, our nearest and dearest. This gesture, though long overdue, goes some way towards highlighting and addressing their concerns”. Cllr. Crosby called on Health Minister Stephen Donnelly to prioritise “those he claims to represent” – the healthcare workers who “rightly demand and expect a fair and just wage in the face of adversity”.

A ‘Creating Our Future’ virtual event will take place at Roscommon LEADER Partnership offices in Roscommon town on November 17th from 7 pm. ‘Creating Our Future’ is a national conversation about research exploring ways in which to create a better future for everyone in Ireland. Independent councillor Anthony Waldron, who visited the Creating Our Future roadshow when it came to Roscommon on October 22nd, says the upcoming virtual event is a wonderful opportunity for local people to have their views heard. “We are hoping to involve a number of local transition years students and community leaders at this event on Wednesday, November 17th. It’s about exploring what we

can do to make Roscommon a better place to live and the research will result in a booklet which will be used by all Government agencies going forward,” he said. “This is a once-off opportunity for local people to have their say and it’s something that won’t come around too often. The final Creating Our Future report will be released in March 2022 so time is running out for people in Roscommon to offer their opinions”. The Creating Our Future virtual event will take place at Roscommon LEADER Partnership on the Golf Links Road in Roscommon town on Wednesday, November 17th. In a press statement, Cllr. Waldron encouraged people to participate and invited anyone who has any queries to contact him on 086 786 6774 if they require more information.

Cllr. Anthony Waldron pictured at the ‘Creating Our Future’ roadshow which visited Roscommon town on October 22nd.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

PropertyPeople Auctioneers & Valuers

NO. 1 ABBEY ST., ROSCOMMON. Licence No. 001090 TEL 090 66 27003. FAX 090 66 26296 EMAIL info@pathughesauctioneers.com Web: www.pathughesauctioneers.com

#### URGENTLY REQUIRED ####

Due to continued success Hughes & Company are urgently looking for all types of property in and around Roscommon for a number of disappointed underbidders. If you are thinking of buying or selling talk to Pat, let him advise you, his advice is free. Phone: 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

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FINAL OFFERS

Are now being sought on circa 110-acre Farm for the Estate of Maura Murray, Deceased, in

CURRAGHBOY VILLAGE

All of the lands are of top quality and have been well maintained over the years. The lands are located in a renowned farming area with the benefit of lake frontage onto Lough Funshinagh. Final Offers will be accepted no later than 4.00pm on Wednesday 17th November unless previously sold For further details or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com Legal: Ms. Tina Dolan Solicitor, Mellotte O’Carroll Solicitors, 11 Pearse Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Ph. 090 64 92014

FINAL OFFE

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FINAL OFFERS

ARE NOW BEING SOUGHT FOR A CIRCA 18.5-ACRE RESIDENTIAL FARM FOR THE REPS OF THE LATE PATRICK (GOSSIE) MCGOVERN LOCATED AT

KILLERNEY, ROSCOMMON

FINAL OFFE

The lands have excellent road frontage and the benefit of access to a side road which would leave them suitable for further development subject to planning permission. The residence is a one bedroomed bungalow with a range of out-offices including a 2-bay Hay Shed and 3 Horse Stables. Final Offers will be accepted no later than 4.00 p.m. on Friday 19th November For further details or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com --------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------

FOR SALE

CIRCA 43 ACRE RESIDENTIAL FARM FOR THE REPS OF THE LATE MARY (MAISIE) FARRELL, DECEASED, LOCATED AT

ROXBORO, ROSCOMMON

The property can be sold in one or more lots to suit. Accommodation consists of: Kitchen, Dining Room, Sitting Room, 3 Bedrooms and Bathroom downstairs, with 2 further Bedrooms upstairs. There are several out-offices including hay shed and lean-to. The lands have excellent road frontage and would have development potential subject to planning permission being granted. The property is situated less than 2 miles from Roscommon town and ½ mile off the main Lanesboro to Roscommon Road convenient to schools and all local amenities. • Lot 1 Residence on circa 34 acres • Lot 2 Circa 9 acres • Lot 3 Residence on circa 3 acres • Lot 4 Circa 31 acres For further details and appointment to view contact 090 6627003 or email: info@ pathughesauctioneers.com Legal: Carmel Leahy, Thomas K Madden & Co. Solicitors, 1 Camlin View, Deanscurragh, Longford, (043) 334 1192

New to the market: Abbey street apartments New to the market this week with Pat Hughes Auctioneers, at No. 16 Abbey Street in Roscommon, is a block of 2x2 bedroom apartments. This property would make an ideal investment opportunity for someone. For further details, contact Pat Hughes Auctioneers on 090-66 27003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Final offers on 110-acre farm in Curraghboy village This week, Pat Hughes Auctioneers are confirming that final offers are now being invited for a 110-acre farm for sale in Curraghboy village. Final offers will be accepted no later than 4 pm on Wednesday, November 17th. All of these lands are of top quality, and the property has the advantage of lake frontage onto Lough Funshinagh. The lands have been well farmed over recent years and would be of interest to local farmers or someone looking to acquire a good block of land located convenient to Athlone and Roscommon. The auctioneers are confirming that they are receiving a lot of interest from investors who are buying this type of property and leasing it for a number of years, which gives them a tax-free income. This farm is capable of generating a rental income of €30,000 per year tax-free. For further details, contact Pat Hughes Auctioneers on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Final offers on residential farm in Roxboro Pat Hughes Auctioneers are confirming that final offers are being invited for a 43-acre residential farm, located at Roxboro, Roscommon. Final offers will be accepted no later than 4 pm on Friday, November 19th. The property, which is being sold under the reps of the late Mary (Maisie) Farrell, can be sold in one or more lots to suit. Downstairs accommodation consists of a kitchen, dining room, sitting room, three bedrooms and a bathroom, with two further bedrooms upstairs. There are several out-offices including a hay shed and lean-to. The land has excellent road frontage and would have development potential subject to planning permission being granted. The property is situated less than two miles from Roscommon town and half a mile off the

main Lanesboro to Roscommon road, convenient to schools and all local amenities. There are approximately nine acres located a short distance away from the main block. All these lands are of top quality. Lot 1 comprises the residence on approximately 34 acres, lot

2 comprises approximately nine acres, lot 3 comprises the residence on approximately three acres and lot 4 comprises 31 acres. For further details, contact Pat Hughes Auctioneers on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

PropertyPeople

Naughton concludes sales worth over €1m! This week, auctioneer Sean Naughton has announced that the sale of the late Jim Fahy’s estate at Lissywollen in Athlone has now concluded for a very satisfactory price of

€875,000.00. The estate contains sixteen acres, some of it designated for residential purpose and the remainder designated for social amenities. Sean Naughton also announced

the sale of the old office building at Mardyke Street in Athlone. “In total, both sales will achieve over one million euros,” he said. Colliers International Estate Agency purchased the land in

trust, and Global Partners ll (South Mall, Cork) bought the office building. On the books with Sean Naughton Auctioneers at the moment is a nice parcel of land

near Lecarrow. Comprising of 11.75 acres, this land would be suitable for mixed farming. Also available to let until February 1st, 2022, is approximately 54 acres (21.85 hectares) of

top-quality land at New Ballagh, Rahara. For more information, contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090-6625080, or email seannaughton@eircom.net.

Sean Naughton MIPAV COMMISSIONER FOR OATHS, AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS, ESTATE AGENTS THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TEL: (090) 6625080 (office (office)) Mob: 087 2479486 — Fax: (090) 6627161 Email: seannaughton@eircom.net PRSA no. 001821 – FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY –

Carrowreagh, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon A large detached residence at Carrowreagh, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. Accommodation briefly consist of 4 bedrooms (2 en-suite), Kitchen, Dining Room, Living Room, Shower Room, Utility and Bathroom. Final offers on or before 19th November 2021

Price on Application

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Cloonsellan, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon

5.30 acres (2.14 hectares) of Fair Quality Agricultural Lands. Final offers on or before 19th November 2021

Price Guide €25,000

Prime penthouse office space on offer with Remax Team Earley This week, Cormac Sheehy of Remax Team Earley is pleased to bring to the market a fine residence, standing on approximately 14 acres of land at Carrownaskeagh, Tulsk, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Also on the market is a prime, fitted, penthouse office space of approximately 2,500 square feet (BER: E1), located at Castlecourt

House off Castle Street, Roscommon (F42 R220). This quality fitted penthouse office space is centrally located in the heart of Roscommon town and has direct lift access. The property is finished to the highest standard throughout. Special features include electric storage heating throughout, an am-

ple free parking facility, and views overlooking Roscommon Castle. The auctioneer now invites immediate viewings and all offers to let. For further details, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. To contact Cormac directly, phone 086-3519492.

Land wanted for forestry purposes This week, Remax Team Earley are urgently seeking lands for forestry purposes to meet a recent order. Holdings of 100-200 acres or larger will be considered. John Earley (FIPAV of Remax Team Earley) comments: “To fill a new order just received, we are actively

seeking lands suitable for plantation in all areas. Our clients will assess the lands and if suitable, cash is waiting for immediate purchase”. For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV, Remax Team Earley) on 086-2551380.

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Cloondarah, Mount Talbot

3.33 acres (1.35 hectares) of Good Quality Lands Ideal for building subject to Planning Permission Final offers on or before 19th November 2021

Price Guide €35,000

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Grange, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon

35.48 acres (14.36 hectares) of top quality land at Grange Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon. Offers Invited

Price on Application

TO LET

New Ballagh, Rahara, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Circa 55 acres of “Top Quality Land” at New Ballagh Rahara till the 01st February 2022 (Sheep Only)

For Viewing & Information of the above properties contact the Auctioneer Sean Naughton M.I.P.A.V. The Square, Roscommon. Commissioner for Oaths, Auctioneers, Valuers & Estate Agents PSRA License No: 001821 Tel: (090) 6625080 Mob: 087 2479486 Email: seannaughton@eircom.net

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

PropertyPeople Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Mobile: John 086 2551380 Email: teamearley@remax.ie Licence No. Web: www.teamearley.ie PSRA004420 FINAL OFFERS INVITED

FINAL OFFERS INVITED

3 Bedroom Bungalow Residence on approx 1.13 Acres

3 Bed Residence on Approx. 3.13 acres LOCATED AT

LOCATED AT

POLLRANNY, CASTLEPLUNKETT, ROSCOMMON F45 TR60

CLOONLAUGHNAN, MOUNT TALBOT, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 P897

AMV:: ALL OFFERS AFTER €110,000 TO SELL AMV

AMV:: €65,000 AMV

A 3 bedroom bungalow residence which comes to market with approx. 3.13 acres of agricultural land. The bungalow extends to approx. 821 sq. ft. and is presented in good condition throughout. Living accommodation is comprised of a porch, entrance hall, living room, kitchen, dining room, 3 bedrooms and main bathroom. The property is heated via a Stanley solid fuel range in the kitchen with back boiler and a solid fuel feature fireplace in the living room. Double glazed windows are fitted throughout. Externally the bungalow sits on a generous sized site with manicured lawns, mature trees and shrubs and a large driveway leading to the rear where there is ample parking space and storage sheds. The site offers the opportunity to extend the property if required and is subject to planning. Ber D2 Legal: Padraig Kelly Strokestown, Roscommon (071) 9633666 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

The property is in need of refurbishment. The bungalow sits on a large site extending to approx. 1.13 acres, offering excellent potential to extend the property if required. Comprising briefly of Living room, kitchen, 3 Bedrooms and Bathroom of approx. 841 sq ft Heated via oil fired central heating with a solid fuel range and a solid fuel fireplace. Double glazed windows are fitted throughout. Cloonlaughnan is situated 3 minutes from Four Roads, 5 minutes from Athleague, 10 minutes from Ballygar and 15 minutes from Roscommon Town, the property offers easy access to an array of amenities in surrounding towns and villages. Four Roads and Athleague are the closest villages offering ample amenities such as schools, shops, pubs, cafes, restaurants, public transport. BER F

FINAL OFFERS INVITED

NEW TO THE MARKET

THE WATER SPLASH”, COOTEHALL VILLAGE, CO. ROSCOMMON, F52 D898.

RETAIL/COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT

AMV: €180,000 (EXCLUDING LICENCE)

A substantial commercial/residential property located in the heart of Cootehall village and adjacent to the River Shannon and Cootehall Marina. Comprising briefly of bar area, lounge, games room/sports lounge, ladies and gents toilets, shop area, storage room over shop. Residence: reception/hallway, sitting/dining room, kitchen, storage room over kitchen, rear storage room, 4 no. bedrooms+, cloak room and bathroom. The said property due size and location offers huge potential with the benefit of 4 B/R living accommodation standing on a beautifully mature site area. Standing the rear of the said property are a range of useful storage sheds holding potential. BER F The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell

MAIN STREET, ELPHIN, CO. ROSCOMMON AMV: €9 €95,000 A well positioned mixed Retail / Commercial & Residential premises which is currently trading as the Post Office in Elphin. The building is coming to market as the owner is looking to retire. This property could be very easily fully converted back to residential or indeed have the commercial space extended. The site itself is large and has a back entrance which provides additional opportunities. The property itself is laid out with a reception room a back office, bathroom and kitchen downstairs First floor has 2 large bedrooms and a bathroom. There is a dry store to the rear of the property. BER F The Auctioneer invites enquiries and viewing is by appointment only.

WE OFFER A COMPREHENSIVE FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL PRE-MARKET ANALYSIS OF ALL PROPERTIES TOGETHER WITH AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIRTUAL TOUR TECHNOLOGY IN ALL MARKETING.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

Classifieds

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

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

ACCOUNTS

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

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

090 66 25818 086 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

BIBLE READINGS

Messages from the Scriptures relevant to everyday life Culleen Hall Knockcroghery

Every Sunday 7 to 8 pm Everyone welcome

089 2234009 086 3907685 CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

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

Fergal 086 1016899

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone:

087 2798704

CHIROPRACTOR

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

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

VHI and Laya Covered

COMPUTERS

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

NO FIX NO FEE

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

COUNSELLING

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

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

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

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

FENCING/GATES

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

GATELY GARDENING

Paul McStay

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

Tel: 087 2172281 FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 2019 Peugeot 3008, sports model, 33,000km. All electrics, automatic, Red/black roof. Lady owner. Tel: 083 8828882 or 043 3321249

Telephone: Mobile:

GARDENING

086 8936012

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

COUNSELLING

FARMING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

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

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

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

Phone John on

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l

094 96 20099

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

087 2860428

DRIVING LESSONS

EDT Lessons Available

GARDENING SERVICES

087 2346364

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

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

GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193

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

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 2010 Opel Insignia, new timing belt and brakes, shocks, tyres. NCT until 7/22, all electrics, black with dark beige upholstery. 2008 BMW 520 Black, taxed until 02/22, NCT until 5/22, fully serviced, in ex ellent condition, all electric. Tel: 083 8828882

HOME REPAIRS < HOME REPAIRS: Repair walls, plasterboard, painting, fascia, tiles, plinths, ceiling, wallpaper, parquet floors etc. Phone: 083 3369829

LAUNDRY SERVICE < LAUNDRY SERVICE: Washing, ironing, best prices, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town, open 10.00 am - 5.30 pm, Monday to Saturday. Tel 083 3369829

PHYSICAL THERAPY

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

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

PLUMBING

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 3-month old German Shepherd pups available for good homes. Strong and robust, playful, friendly and affectionate. Well-bred, shorthair and straight back. Call 0838124647

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

Classifieds IRONING SERVICE < IRONING AND ALTERATIONS SERVICE: Quick and efficient. Laundry or Ironing 5kg bag only €5. Pop into us on Abbey Street (across from Roscommon People). Tel: 083 029 7103

REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)

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

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

Registered Reflexologist

TERESA BURKE

BNS (Hons). M.Sc (Hons) (MNRRI) Give your mind and body a relaxing experience with a reflexology treatment. Through massage of the feet reflexology can • Rebuild energy levels in the body • Assist in relieving stress • Encourage relaxation • Improve general wellbeing Reflexology is based on the principle that the foot has “reflex” points that correspond to the various structures and organs throughout the body. Contact TERESA for appointment at 087 9001212 Brideswell, Co. Roscommon N37 EW20

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Jacinta McManus, intend to apply for planning permission at, Newtown, Drum (Bealnamulla), Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of a single-storey, four-bedroom dwelling, comprising of open plan kitchen and dining room, living room, evening room, accessible bathroom, w.c. and utility area, new waste water treatment system and ancillary works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. Signed: Jacinta McManus

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. We are applying for planning permission to retain the following: a) A dwellinghouse as constructed b) A garden/storage shed ancillary to the dwellinghouse c) An upgraded waste treatment system comprising a proprietary effluent treatment system at Lung Townland, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Thomas and Mary Towey The planning application may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable costs 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 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Reflexologist Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

l General Reflexology l Baby Reflexology l Special Needs

Reflexology l Hoppi Ear Candling l Indian Head Massage

Phone Diane

086 4061401

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Brian Duffy, intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, the installation of a sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works at Barry Beg Townland, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965 www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Cloondarah, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon. I hereby apply to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Peter Conboy for planning permission to construct a new dwelling house, a new domestic garage, treatment plant and polishing filter and all associated site works at the above location.

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 on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a 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: Noel O’ Brien and Associates Mountbellew, Co. Galway Phone/Fax No: (090) 9679506

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for retention of septic tank with percolation area installation to dwelling house at Ballinturley, Ballymacurley.

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Stephen McGuinness, intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, the installation of a sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works at Newtown Townland, Whitehall, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Thomastown Demesne, Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. I hereby apply to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Michael Cawley for planning permission to extend his dwelling house to construct a new domestic garage, new treatment plant and polishing filter and all associated site works at the above location.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Alan Beirne and Grace McElhone, intend to apply for Retention Permission to retain existing dwelling house elevations as constructed, along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works. The works are within the curtilage of a Protected Structure – Lissadorn Entrance Arch and Ancillary Structures No. 01600165 of the Roscommon County Council record of protected structures at Lissadorn Townland, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

PUBLIC NOTICE We, Sarah and Dennis Deane, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon wish to apply for renewal of their Bookmakers Licences.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, David and Rachel Gilleran are applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house along with domestic garage, new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Aghmagree Townland, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon.

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

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

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

THANK YOU James Creaton, Loughglynn and his family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to each and everyone for their prayers, Mass bouquets, candles, phone calls, letters and good wishes following his heart surgery in November 2020. Your support was very much appreciated and will always be remembered. A Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Tullys

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

For all foot ailments

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

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

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

PODIATRIST

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

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

For Bookings Contact:

College Road, For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803

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

Co Galway H53 D7W8

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

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

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

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

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

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

PODIATRIST

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying for planning permission to demolish existing dilapidated dwelling house at Elphin Street, Strokestown.

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

PLANNINGS

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

• 20 years experience

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

Classifieds TARMACADAM

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

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

Harpur Bros

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: TOP QUALITY TURF

FOR ALL YOUR DRIVEWAY NEEDS

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

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

TUITION

Christmas LCHL Revision Course

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

083 0684011

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

l Wed 29th Dec

l Thurs 30th Dec

l Roscommon Town Venue l Booking deposit

required

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

PIANO LESSONS < EXPERIENCED PIANO TEACHER: Available in the Strokestown area. For details contact Blánaid on 089 9791653

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Pete’s Cabs

USEFUL SERVICES

TURF AVAILABLE

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

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

Tel: Donal

DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

086 2721812

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

(All areas)

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815 WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:

086 2437376

USEFUL SERVICES

CARPENTER AVAILABLE

PAINTER & DECORATOR

Call 087 646 7322

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

for all types of work, including maintenace, roof repairs.

Electrician Available

090 6661635

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small.

087 2683079

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com. < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802.

Evo Roofers

Free Quotations provided

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

www.evoroofers.com

Phone: 090 6400177 <TURF FOR SALE: In tonne bags, delivery to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Price €50. Bag and delivery also included in price. Tel: 086 8534011

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

The local paper!

or Mobile:

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

087 9657933 or 090 6626752

LOFT LADDERS Aluminium

Supplied & Fitted From

The company that can do all them small jobs

FROM

€190 094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

USEFUL SERVICES

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

Telephone: 089 9899 912

AtYourService PROPERTY

RO S l

ROS Property Services

Extensions l Renovations l Property Maintenance

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

Covering Athlone, Galway and surrounding areas

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

Phone Alan on:

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

087 9795226

email: evoroofing122@gmail.com

Roscommon

– Contact –

USEFUL SERVICES

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Call Mike

087 2478609

Western Carpentry & Roofing

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055 You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions

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

1st & 2nd Fixing • Slating & Tiling • Lead work • Leak detection

Tel. 087 9625391

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

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

AtYourService BLINDS

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

CARS

KITCHENS

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

Chris’s Window Service

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

BRENDAN DOOLIN

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

Chimney Problems

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

Tel: 087 0944027

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

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

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

S tephen H oare

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

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

Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com 086 8229606

FARMING

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

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

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Daily collection

Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

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

PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS PROPERTY PROPERTY CLAIMS CLAIMS CONSULTANTS CONSULTANTS Property Claims Consultants PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS PROPERTY CLAIMSSERVICES CONSULTANTS LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES LOSS LOSS ASSESSORS ASSESSORS SERVICES PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES and Loss Assessors Services LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES

091 380900 091 091 380900 380900 091 091380900 380900 087 7371280 087 7371280 087 087 7371280 7371280 0877371280 7371280 087 info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.iewww.icr.ie PAINTING www.icr.ie

Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Mountbellew, Co. Galway UnitUnit 12 12 Oranmore Oranmore Business Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | |Mountbellew, | Mountbellew, Co. Co. Galway CONTRACTORS Unit 12 Oranmore BusinessPark, Park,Oranmore, Oranmore,Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Mountbellew, Galway Loss • Certified • • Certified DipDip inDip inLoss Loss • Certified Certified Dip ininLoss

Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

• Approved Product Advisor • Member the PSAB-GI • •Approved Approved Product Product Advisor Advisor • • Member •Member Member ofofthe ofPSAB-GI theofPSAB-GI Approved Product Advisor the PSAB-GI

RECYCLING

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

uPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

• Double Glazing Units Replaced • Servicing Athlone, Roscommon, Ballinasloe areas • Based in South Roscommon

Gerry Martin:

Keen Prices

086 2203335

Gmail: gerrymartin198@gmail.com

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

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

Tel: 090

Michael: 089 9661849

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

QUARRY RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

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

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

Martin Hibbitt OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com

Adjusting Adjusting Dip in Loss • Approved Product Advisor • • •Member ofby the PSAB-GI Adjusting Adjusting We SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed • •Certified • Approved Member the Insurance • Regulated byCentral the Central Insurance by the Central • •Member Member ofofofthe theof Insurance Insurance Regulated •Regulated Regulated by Central the Cleaning Sheds, Painting Roofs Certified Dip in Loss •Member Product Advisor •the Member of the PSAB-GI • Loss Loss Assessor Services Institute Ireland Bank Ireland Assessor Services Institute of Ireland • Regulated Bank of Ireland • Member of the Insurance the Central •Adjusting Loss • • Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services Institute Institute ofofofIreland Ireland Bank Bank ofofIreland ofbyIreland Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Adjusting and Hay Barns • Member of the Insurance • Regulated by the Central Assessor Services Institute of Ireland Bank of Ireland Doors, Porches and Conservatories • •Loss Loss Assessor Services Institute of Ireland Bank of Ireland

www.roscommonwindows.ie

New Buildings & Retrofit

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

Lowest price guaranteed

Martin Hibbitt Martin Martin Hibbitt Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA (FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS OR ON-LINE/TEAMS) Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, APA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LACDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, LA APA-PL,CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LA PAINTING 091 380900

Telephone: 090 66 33026

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

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

TEL: (090) 96 88606

INSURANCE CLAIMS

INSULATION

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

GUIDING & COACHING TOWARDS SUCCESS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

DOORS/ WINDOWS

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

CAROLINE BURKE Career & Life Coaching

to discuss your requirements

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

LIFE COACH

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

6621220

WARD BROS QUARRY SUPPLIERS OF ALL TYPES OF: • Stone • Sand & Gravel • Topsoil • Readymix • Plant Hire

FOR KEENEST QUOTES CALL

071 96 33222

E: wardbrosltd@gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

Classifieds

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

Appointments Roscommon Community Preschool McSharry TRACK is the exclusive dealer for a number of brands covering the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Our success is based on the quality of the parts and the service we provide.

Roscommon Community Playgroup CLG, RCN 20029777

Roscommon Community Playgroup CLG, RCN 20029777 18 Henry Street, Roscommon, F42 X292

Phone: (083) 305 6686 / (090) 6627208 Email: roscommonpreschool@gmail.com

STORE PERSONS We are looking to recruit store persons for both our Kobelco Parts and Undercarriage divisions. This is a great opportunity to join these growing divisions within McSharry TRACK and become a key member of each team.

18PART-TIME Henry Street, Roscommon, F42 X292 AIM SUPPORT WORKER POSITION 9am-12.30pm Monday – Friday (Term Time Only) For the preschool year 2021-2022

Phone: (083)

Role: AIM Support Worker, working alongside our experienced ECCE Team. 305 6686 / (090) 6627208 Responsible for assisting in developing and coordinatingEmail: support to roscommonpreschool@g children participating in ECCE setting. Essential Criteria: • Minimum QQI/ FETAC Level 5 in Childcare or SNA Qualification • Minimum 1 Year experience in a busy childcare environment • Garda Vetting Required Person Specifications: • Ability to work as part of a team • Ability to ensure the health & safety of children at all times • Kind, friendly and responsive to the needs of children • Good communication skills, fun loving and active • Ability to work on own initiative Desirable: • First Aid Responder Training (Level 5) • Tusla Always Children First Foundation Training

If a machine is working, it is wearing parts. The role of store person is to support customers with the right parts to keep their machines running.

PART TIME AIM SUPPORT WORKER POSITION

We provide on the job training to ensure you know where to look so you can offer the right part; and our suppliers offer their full support too. It’s always nice to help customers so they can get the job done.

9am-12.30pm Monday – Friday Term Time Only

Salary: Negotiable

SEND CV / CONTACT: Niall McSharry McSharry TRACK, Old Brick Site, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon Tel: 090 6629500 Email: niall@mcsharrybros.com

Subject to Garda Clearance, please email for a blank Garda Clearance form. Job description available upon request.

For the preschool year 2021-2022

Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance Form with letter of expression of interest and CV to: The Manager, Roscommon Community Preschool, 18 Henry Street, Roscommon F42 X292 or roscommonpreschool@gmail.com Closing Date for applications is Tuesday, 23rd November

Role:

Roscommon Community Preschool is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

AIM Support Worker, working alongside our experienced ECCE Team.

Responsible for assisting in developing and coordinating support to children participating in ECCE s

orrib Oil Roscommon are now recruiting for the following positions; Corrib Roscommon are Assistants now recruiting(Full for the& following positions: Essential Criteria: DeliOiland Catering Part Time)

Trainee Deli Manager • Minimum QQI/ FETAC LevelAccounts 5 in Childcare or Administrator SNA Qualification

Corrib Oil Roscommon are now recruiting positions; • Minimum 1 Year experience in est.1996 a busyarechildcare (Full-time) - Flexi for the following RHS Home Care looking for anenvironment Accounts Administrator for our head office in

Roscommon Primary Care Centre, Golf Links Road, Co Roscommon. • Garda Vetting Required The ideal candidate will be good at multi-tasking, work well under pressure and have experience Deli and Catering Assistants (Full & Part Time) working in an accounts department. • Reports to: Finance Manager

Person Specifications: • • • • •

Purpose of the Role l Accounts receivable duties- processing invoices and monthly statements in a timely manner. l Resolving customer queries. l Processing Payroll. as of aknowledge team of Quickbooks beneficial l Working part l Dealing with other office duties as required.

Ability to work Ability to ensure the health & safety of children at all times Requirements Kind, friendly and to theReceivable needs of children responsive Experience in Accounts essential Proven experience in Accounts Administration Good communication skills, fun loving and active Relevant qualification in Office Administration Excellent attention to detail and admin skills Ability to work on initiative own Exceptional organisational ability l l l l l

Ability to work on own initiative but also work as part of a team

Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word. If you are an energetic, motivated individual with a Desirable: passion for Strong communication skills providing first class customer service we want to hear from you! Employment Type • First Aid Responder Training Experience within a Contract Catering or Deli environment is preferable. Full time permanent (Level 5) are an energetic, motivated individual with a passion for providing first class customer Hours of work: Office Hours: (9.00-5pm Mon-Thurs, 9.00-4.30pm Fri) Must be available to work flexible hours • Tusla Always Children First Foundation Training Attractive salary service we want hear from Monday to Sunday incl.to evenings andyou! weekends Training, support and more l l

l l l l

apply, please forward CV cover letter PreviousTo experience is desirable, butand training will to: be provided

Please email your expression of interest in this role including your up to date Curriculum Vitae to:

st be available to workcmulroe@corriboil.com flexible hours Monday to Sunday incl. evenings & weekends

If you are an energetic, motivated individual passion forLetter providing To apply, please forwardwith CV aand Cover to: first class customer

ptowey@rhshomecare.ie

Closing date for CV’s is: COB Wednesday, 17th November 2021

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

Classifieds

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

Appointments

FAMILYNOTICES ....

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES IRELAND – WEST REGION PROVIDING SERVICES TO PEOPLE WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

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

We wish to invite applications for the following posts: An electrical, switchgear, engineering, manufacturing and design company, located in the heart of the midlands (Athlone), are looking to expand its manufacturing team. We currently have the following positions available: · Electrical Apprentice (entry level or experienced) · Junior assembly Technician Alongside the current experienced, quality focused team, the candidates will be responsible for the following tasks: · Assemble mechanical and electrical components per a detailed electrical/ mechanical design package. · Wire up internal components, including ACB’s, MCBs, MCCB’s, RCBO’s as part of an inclusive skid. · Build, punch and form copper busbar components. · Assemble mechanical enclosures · Execute QAQC checklists as part of the internal quality guidelines.

Full training will be given to the ideal candidate. Please contact hr@centralswitchgear.ie Tel: 090 6498112 www.centralswitchgear.ie

GP Practice Nurse 16 Hours per week. Six months initially with effect from January 2022. Must be confident and competent in women’s health/vaccine programmes, venepuncture and venesection. Intending applicants please send CV to:

Dr. Hugh O’Donnell, Strokestown Medical Practice, Primary Care Centre, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. F42 PX61 or email: traumadoc55@hotmail.com

COACH DRIVER REQUIRED Full and part-time work. Must have D Licence Apply to Box no. 2097, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Tarmacadam Company based in Co. Roscommon have the following position available

TARMAC & PAVOR WORKERS

FOR IMMEDIATE START. l Must be experienced in the laying and finishing of Tarmacadam l Min of 2-3 years experience required. l Full clean driving licence and Safe Pass

Telephone: 086 4007158

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

CONTACT HAZEL

Roscommon North Services

087 6758874

JOB REF: 212/2021

PERMANENT & TEMPORARY PART TIME SUPPORT WORKERS X 4 Support Workers provide a key-working supportive role for individuals supported by the Service. The Support Worker role is to support the person in all aspects of daily living focusing on the individual’s ability and promoting independence and development of skills at all times. The Support Worker will assist and support People who use the Service with development of their Individual Plans and the achievement of associated outcomes, and critically, to support People who use the Service in participating in the ordinary everyday life of the community through inclusive and creative thinking. Candidates should have a good general education. A relevant FETAC/ QQI Level 5 or equivalent qualification appropriate to the field of intellectual disability is desirable. Fluency in verbal and written English is an essential requirement of this post. At least 1 years experience of working with people with an intellectual disability and/or people on the autism spectrum is essential. Interpersonal skills and styles that match with the specific needs and characteristics of the group are required. Experience in community connecting is essential. The successful candidate should demonstrate creativity, positivity, flexibility, communication and team working skills. IT skills is an advantage and a full clean manual Irish drivers licence is essential. A panel may be formed as a result of this process from which subsequent Support Worker Appointments within the North Roscommon Services will be made over the next 6 months. To view the full job description and to make an application on-line, please log onto the Brothers of Charity website at

www.brothersofcharity.ie/galway Informal enquiries for this post to:

Tommie Scanlon, Area Manager on (087)-1697954 The closing date for receipt of all applications on-line is:

5pm, Tuesday 23rd November 2021

Interviews to be held on Thursday 9th December via Microsoft Teams. The Brothers of Charity Services Ireland - West Region is an equal opportunities employer

SALES ASSISTANT FULL TIME POSITION Required for busy electrical retail outlet in Roscommon Town. Candidates should have excellent interpersonal skills, be able to work as part of a team and use their own initiative. IMMEDIATE START. Apply to: Box no. 2098, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHILDMINDER: Required three days per week in the Castlerea area for two school going children. Own transport essential for school drop-offs and pickups. Please contact 087 6407562.

SITUATIONS WANTED < CARER AVAILABLE: Experienced carer available, all scenarios considered.References available. Please contact 089 4594661

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

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

WHYTE Frank and Christy Castlestrange House, Athleague

Frank

Christy

Will those who think of them today, a prayer to Our Lady of Knock, please say.

Always remembered with love by Shirley and family. Mass has been offered.

Sr. Nora Somers PBVM

Hollygrove, Athleague, Co. Galway Presentation Order, Tuam and Zambia As Nora’s First Anniversary approaches, we the Somers Geraghty family thank sincerely all those who supported us during her illness and death. We thank her sisters in the Presentation Order in Lucan and Tuam especially Sr. Rose and Sr. Esther who cared for her so lovingly in her final weeks. A special thanks to Archbishop Michael Neary and Fr. Sean Flynn who were so generous with their time, visiting her during her illness. Nora’s Funeral Mass in the beautiful Chapel of the Mercy Sisters was a memorable experience which warmed up very dark days for us. Thanks to Fr. Francis Mitchell whose Liturgy and words were well crafted, fitting and comforting. The ceremony was enhanced by Paul Keating’s beautiful singing, colourful wreaths and the online presence of friends and family across the world. The respect and sympathy shown by so many friends who stood prayerfully along the route of her final journey were hugely appreciated. The Guard of Honour formed by the pupils of Presentation College where Nora had worked as a young teacher was not only touching, but a symbol of respect and sympathy among her Presentation family world wide. We are grateful to staff at St Vincent’s Hospital and in particular the team in Galway Hospice who treated her with much respect, compassion and care during her stay there. Many, many people were in touch during Nora’s illness, death and since. We received floral wreaths, sympathy cards, letters, phone calls, messages of condolence, prayers and special Holy Masses. They have been consoling and heart-warming. But they also are a reflection of the Christian values that drove Nora as a teacher, a leader and a human being. Truly, the love, compassion, care and respect you have shown in these actions are an experience of God’s love on earth for us all. Please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Sr Nora’s Anniversary Mass will be offered in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday, November 13th at 7pm.

Roscommon People Friday 12 November 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES REMEMBERING

CONNOLLY Tomás The Acre, Cloonakilleg, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon (11th Anniversary) 28/01/1986 - 13/11/2010

We cried when you passed away, we still cry today. Although we loved you dearly, we couldn’t make you stay. Your loving heart stopped beating, your beautiful soul at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best. At peace with his loving Father Tommy & Mother Veronica.

Missed always by his heartbroken sisters Sarah and Brigid and the extended Connolly and Cooper families. ‘Think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched, for nothing loved is ever lost as he loved so much’

HEALY John Carrowreagh, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of John, who passed away on 13th November 2018 R.I.P. Deep are the memories precious they stay, no passing of time can take the away.

Loved and missed by your wife Margaret and family Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Sunday, 14th November at 10am.

HANLEY Michael (Mickie) Castlestrange, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tomás In memory of Tomás Connolly, Cloonakilleg, Mount Talbot, County Roscommon on his 11th Anniversary. In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still. In our hearts you hold a place, no one could ever fill.

Forever loved and missed by your Godmother Sheila, George, Hugh and Matt.

CRUISE Richard Derrycahill, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon (27th Anniversary)

OWENS Thomas (Tommy) Ballybride, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Tommy who passed away on 16th November 2019 Silent memories keep you near as time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our thoughts and prayers you still live on.

Fondly remembered by his wife Theresa and family. Anniversary Mass will be held in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 20th November at 11am.

KELLY Nora Ballinleg, Ballymurray. Who passed away on the 12th November 2020 (1st Anniversary)

Looking back with memories upon the path you trod I bless the years I had with you and leave the rest to God.

Always remembered by your daughter Rosaleen.

Beechwood, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

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.

Sadly missed by John, James, Joseph and family. Anniversary Mass for Rose on Sunday, 14th November in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan at 10am.

DOLAN/ McCANN Catherine Oatfield Cottage, West Lodge Road, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 16th November 2020

Softly the leaves of memory fall. Gently we gather and treasure them all. Unseen, unheard, you are always near. So missed, so loved, so very dear.

Sadly missed and remembered by her family and friends.

Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway and formerly of Ballymachola, Co. Mayo. (2nd Anniversary) Who passed away on the 9th November 2019

In loving memory of Michael who passed away on the 5th November 2018 Rest In Peace Michael Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words, we will never forget, when thoughts go back as they always do, we treasure the memories we have of you.

Always remembered by your loving wife and family. Anniversary Mass will be offered on Friday evening 12th November at 8pm in Fuerty Church

In loving memory and sadly missed by her daughter Mary, sons Edward and Patrick, sisters Mary and Olive, sister-in-law Mona, son-in-law, daughters-inlaw and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 19th November at 7pm.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceivedwithout sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. M.K.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

No farewell words were spoken, no time to say goodbye, you were gone before we knew it, and only God can tell us why. The pain inside we carry, the tear we often cry, each day since your passing, we carry on and try.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 12 noon on Saturday, 13th November in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar. In loving memory of our dear husband, father and grandfather. You have left our home but not our hearts.

KIRRANE Michael Joseph Forest Hill, London and Carrowduff, Ballymacurley, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Michael, late of Forest Hill, London and Timperley, Cheshire. Who died on the 16th November 2019

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts, is always kept for you. Simple words but very true, we will always love and remember you.

Loved and sadly missed by your son Darren, partner Vic, grandson Seán, sisters Mary and Frances, brother-in-law Allen, nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Tuesday, 16th November at 7pm.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE Birthday Remembrance for

BANAHAN Kathleen Creevy Road, Roscommon Whose birthday occurs on Thursday, 11th November 2021 Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

HOLMES Gerry

THANKSGIVINGS In loving memory of Richard Cruise, who died on 8th November 1994. R.I.P.

DAVIS Rosie

We’re sending a dove to Heaven, with a parcel on its wings. Be careful when you open it, it’s full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses, wrapped up in a million hugs, to say how much we miss you, and to send you all our love. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you will remain, to walk with us, throughout our lives, until we meet again. Rest In Peace Kathleen.

Always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts, Mum, Dad and family.

Email or call for Sample Pack

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