Roscommon People 14th August 2020

EE

FR

The BIGGEST readership of ANY Roscommon newspaper! Readership is now 80,000 people every week!

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL

Spend LOCAL

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie

Tel. (090) 66 34633

Keep it local!

14 August 2020

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 694

TOMMIE KELLY ELECTRICAL

iles and athrooms

ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

Summer Sale now on

We are now open

Please follow all HSE Covid-19 Guidelines

www.tommiekelly.ie

090 6634465

Shamrock MultiPurpose Compost BUY 2, GET 1 FREE

Frances’

75 LTS

Finishing Touches

MEN’S TROUSERS REDUCED TO CLEAR €20 New opening hours 12 to 4pm

For orders and enquiries contact Frances on 087 6500931 The Square, Roscommon

Tel.: 090 6626270 or 087 6500931 Email: francesfinishingtouches@gmail.com

€8.99

Roscommon-Galway Constituency

Vótáil

Wards

Eugene

Murphy

Happy 70 birthday, Mickey! ... There was a surprise drive-by 70th birthday celebration for Roscommon GAA great Mickey Freyne last weekend. Mickey was Roscommon’s first ever All Star! Pictured left to right are members of the Freyne family: Mickey, Kevin, Colm, Rhys, Nicola, Eileen, Cian and Eugene. See page 12. Photo: Mick McCormack th

Circular Road, Roscommon town Tel. 090 6626172

Real Solutions for Rural Ireland “I am committed to helping to improve the quality of life for people in rural Ireland which has largely been left behind- we need to build a future where people can live, work and enjoy the many benefits of rural living”

You know us, We’re LOCAL! For all your Home Heating & Fuel Needs

Jason McEvoy: Tel: 087 1888114 Eugene Murphy

Joe McEvoy: Tel. 087 1888115

Matt Devane: No 2: Orla Leyden Tel. 087 1882288 Aidan Casey: Elphin Street, Tel. 087 4006004

Senator

Eugene Murphy

An Ireland for all In the present difficult

Fighting back on behalf of the people of Roscommon/Galway

ATH L O N E Ι MO AT E

Constituency Offices:

LA NES B O RO U G H Ι G A LWAY

cirumstances, please be Ballinasloe, Market Square, Strokestown, reassured Roscommon Townavailable Co. Galway that I am Co. Roscommon Co. Roscommon Kevin Ireland: at all times if you have any  087 435 3834 Tel. 087 2216127  071 963 3000  090 662 5722 concerns or issues

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

 eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

MOBILE: 087 1668775

090 647 8433

Working with your local Fianna Fáil team: Cllr Michael Connolly, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr John Keogh, Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Marty McDermott, Cllr Joe Murphy

Finn Electrical

Kids Antiviral Pack Masks Included

€9.99

Tel: 090 6625644

Email: Info@mgfelect.com

Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

Large selection of Cooling Fans in stock Call in for details

Henry Street, Roscommon.

McGUINNESS

For all your Electrical, Wiring, Accessories & Lighting Supplies

Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789

– Industrial – Commercial – Agricultural – Domestic

Pharmacy

www.bccsolicitors.ie

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

Michael Fitzmaurice TD

Mob.: 086 1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

CASEY’S ROSCOMMON

Kerosene 45.9c per litre Marked Gas Oil 54.9c per litre

CYCLING ACCIDENT If you were involved in a cycling accident contact

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

Christy Connolly Recovery

Now stocking ...

CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL. 094 9620793 MOB. 086 2505325 / 087 2505325 E: connollychristy@eircom.net

• Approved recyclers of end of life vehicles • Destruction certs issued • 24/7 recovery service available nationwide

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

02

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

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

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358

People WATCHING With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

info@oates.ie • www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

For a confidential chat, ring Aengus on (086) 2573358

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

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors are proud of our significant experience in all aspects of conveyancing transactions. We acknowledge that buying and selling property can be a very stressful time and we aim to guide our clients through the process in a timely manner with competence and ease. Whether you are an experienced buyer or seller or a first time buyer we can offer you the best advice and expertise regarding your rights and obligations.

Property transactions are inherently complex and we are committed to dedicating the appropriate time and attention which your property transaction deserves. Furthermore, we are equally committed to providing a value for money service and are proud to offer our expert and efficient service at a competitive rate. At the outset of any conveyancing transaction we set out our fee structure in detail ensuring a transparent service thereby allowing clients to budget all legal costs and outlays.

In simple terms conveyancing is the legal process involved in buying, selling, leasing, transferring, mortgaging or re-mortgaging a property. It involves a thorough investigation of the title to a property, preparation of deeds and documents and importantly ensuring that good title passes to the purchaser. Additional formalities must also be attended to including liaising with Revenue Commissioners and Property Registration Authority regarding payment of stamp duty and registration of title.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors offer a comprehensive conveyancing service to include: • Purchase of residential property • Sale of residential property • Residential Letting Agreements • Landlord and Tenant matters • Site and Fram Transfers of property • Property related disputes • Advice in relation to the taxation implications of your property transaction

So, my friend, what have you learnt from lockdown?

SO MUCH! About life? About what matters?

About how other countries have dealt with Covid? About pandemics?

About science? About our health workers? About political leadership?

Well, yes…all of that…plus…eh, my list.

Your list?

Yes, my list of things I’ve learnt during lockdown!

Go on…

1: Every house needs two fridges.

Wha’?

A fridge for the children, and a separate, CYCLING ACCIDENT private, secret fridge for the parents.

Our fridge was only ever briefly well If you were involved a cycling stocked duringin lockdown; within accident contact moments, it began to mysteriously lose Byrne Carolan items!

Cunningham Solicitors Got you! Go on…

2: Baking and cooking…they’re so much more important than I realised!

Go on…

All summer, in our house at least, it was baking, baking, baking!

You’re a dab hand?

No, not me! Well, I am taking lessons!

Buns, I’m working on buns! But moreso my wife, our children! It’s non-stop!

They never took a break?

Well, usually in the evenings…

Good…

To watch My Kitchen Rules, or repeats of Gordon Ramsay, or repeats of The Restaurant, or…God forbid…

Come Dine With Me? Yep! Loud, offensive, a caricature of real cooking…

Gordon Ramsay?

No! Come Dine With Me! You’re just a snob!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Thank you!

(They pause, to muse about life) Number 3? On your list?

Social media – it’s brilliant!

But you used to give out about it…said you could barely use a smartphone!

Oh, I’m still a novice, but I appreciate it more now…I could listen to music when I went for walks, I even took part in ZOOM chats!

Anything else?

The birds! The singing of the birds!

During lockdown, I learnt to appreciate nature more!

Agreed! Lovely to hear that gentle humming in the morning…

Ryan Tubridy? Yeah…

No, the birds!

Oh yes, the birds!

And what did you miss most?

Easy…live sport. TV became unbearable…too many repeats. I even ended up missing Eastenders and Coronation Street…almost!

Well, Fair City’s coming back!

Oh dear…

And what were your political highlights…what stood out for you over peak lockdown?

Oh! There were so many examples of great political leadership…I have a separate list for that!

Go on…

In reverse order…5: Boris boasting that he shook hands with people who had Covid-19; 4: Almost every utterance

by President Trump; 3: Eamon Ryan falling asleep during a debate on lowpaid workers; 2: Danny Healy-Rae saying “the virus doesn’t know if you’re eating with your pint or not”; 1: Barry Cowen-gate.

We’re blessed, with such leadership!

NOT! I’ve said it all along, my friend…YOU need to go into politics!

On the contrary, you’ve been slow to support me!

Well, maybe I’ve changed my mind during lockdown. I can see you are the voice of reason! So, in the New Year, you need to mount a political campaign!

THIS TIME…will you commit? Will you be my strategist?

I might!

Brilliant! We’ll set up a new party…the PPP! The post-pandemic party!

We’ll have a launch!

Cheese & wine?

Yeah…and you can trial your buns!

What we liked…

Roscommon County Council launched a new, updated edition of the ‘Roscommon Walks and Cycleways’ booklet.

Explore the beauty of our county!

What we didn’t like…

The stark rise in Covid cases (nationally) over the past week or so – leading to renewed restrictions in three Midlands’ counties – is a wake-up call to everyone.

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

What PEOPLE are talking about…

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

PIC OF THE WEEK: Eye contact! Action from St. Dominic’s v Oran last weekend. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The rise in Covid cases; the beautiful weather; the Sean Boylan documentary; the countdown to reopening of schools.

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

03

NewsPeople

CLOSING DOWN

SALE FINAL WEEKS

(Closing Saturday 5th September) Cllr. Laurence Fallon, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council gets a helping hand to launch the second edition of ‘Roscommon Walks and Cycleways’.

New ‘Walks and Cycleways’ book!

Following additional funding from Healthy Ireland, Roscommon County Council has launched the 2nd edition of ‘Roscommon Walks and Cycleways’.

In addition to 18 walks depicted in the first edition, this edition includes new walks (Loughnaneane Sculpture Trail, Lung Lough Gara Way, The National Famine Way, and Monksland Way) and two cycleways (Green Heartland and the newlyopened Boyle to Lough Key Cycleway). The

book includes a children’s activity section and a list of outdoor gym and playgrounds locally.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. Laurence Fallon stressed the importance of exercise for physical and mental wellbeing and urged all the people of Roscommon to utilise the book.

Copies are available from Tourist Information points, and Roscommon County Council, or from www.visitroscommon.ie.

Dromod, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim

Call us now to make a reservation on

071 9638234

Email: coxssteakhouse@yahoo.ie Web: www.coxs-steakhouse.com

All Diamond Rings and Jewellery – HALF PRICE Watches – 50% OFF EVERYTHING MUST GO! MANY ITEMS UP TO 70% OFF

The restaurant combines a traditional bar setting, where legacy and tradition meets modern style CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN.

Phone: 090 6626233. Email: mjfarrell@eircom.net 䵊

⁆

䅒

剅

䱌

彡

摶

敲

琀

㈵

⁓

数

瑥

浢

敲

′

〰

㜠

ㄶ

㨱

㔺

〹

CLOSING SATURDAY 5th SEPTEMBER, 2020 OPEN 7 DAYS l Breakfast: 8am - 12pm l Lunch: 12pm - 4pm

l Al la Carte

4pm - 8.45pm; 7 days a week l Bar & Snacks to close

Follow us on Social Media for SPECIALS In store restrictions and social distancing must be adhered to

04

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

Domnick Connolly

Connolly thinks time might be right for ‘Gang of Three’ to return to FG fold! < PAUL HEALY

Nine years after they parted from Fine Gael, Domnick Connolly says the time might now be right for himself, Independent TD Denis Naughten and Cathaoirleach of County Roscommon Cllr. Laurence Fallon to rejoin the party.

Deputy Naughten, Cllr. Fallon and then Councillor Connolly all left Fine Gael as part of the fall-out from the Roscommon Hospital controversy in 2011. They have remained Independents ever since.

Now, in a wide-ranging interview as part of the Roscommon People podcast series, Mr. Connolly says it is his personal view that the three close political colleagues should look to re-enter the party.

Mr. Connolly, who stressed that he had not discussed the matter with Deputy Naughten or Cllr. Fallon, said that the era in question is over, Fine Gael is performing well, and it is his view that all three should consider going back to the party.

In the podcast, which can be listened to via the Roscommon People website and/or Sound Cloud, the popular Fuerty native talks about his political influences, his passion for the GAA, and the importance of community.

Having been diagnosed with a serious illness last year, Domnick speaks movingly of how he and his family came to terms with the diagnosis. He has made a good recovery, is now doing great healthwise, and has expressed heartfelt thanks to his wife Mary and family, and to neighbours and friends, for the tremendous support shown to him over this very difficult period.

Domnick Connolly, who lost his seat in 2019, served as a county councillor for over 20 years (not consecutively), having first been elected in 1991. A passionate community man, he is synonymous with the GAA. In the podcast, he recalls many memorable Gaelic football and hurling highlights over the years, particularly at parish/club level.

Long dedicated to Fine Gael – he was inspired by the late Garret Fitzgerald, and locally by the late Liam Naughten – his involvement with the party took an unexpected turn in 2011.

Before the bombshell events of that year, Mr. Connolly recalls standing beside then Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny when the future Taoiseach addressed the media in Roscommon town (in 2010) and pledged that Roscommon A&E would be safe under his party’s watch.

Mr. Connolly, then a Fine Gael councillor, said that Mr. Kenny had – in a private meeting – assured

Fine Gael public representatives of the party’s commitment to the hospital.

When Denis Naughten subsequently lost the Fine Gael whip (after the closure of the A&E unit) then Cllr. Connolly and Cllr.

Laurence Fallon both stood by the TD – meaning they quit the party and became independents.

In the podcast, Domnick Connolly says it was a “heartbreak” to have to leave Fine Gael after being in the party for much of his life. He was devastated to have to leave but felt he had no other option but to “back Denis Naughten”. It was important, he felt, for both him and Cllr. Fallon to support the stance that Deputy Naughten had taken in a Dáil vote. Furthermore, both he and Cllr. Fallon had “knocked on houses” and canvassed on the basis of Roscommon A&E being safe under Fine Gael. Deputy Naughten was a “budding leader” who had had “his legs cut from under him”.

It was a toxic time within Fine Gael locally. Mr. Connolly said he hadn’t lost friends over the controversy, but he accepted that many political relationships had

DOMNICK CONNOLLY: A community champion You can listen to the full Roscommon People Podcast with Domnick Connolly on Sound Cloud and on roscommonpeople.ie been affected, that many people had not forgiven him for leaving Fine Gael. “Some of them I would have had a great time for, some of them I wouldn’t pass much remarks on”.

In the podcast, Mr. Connolly says he believes that the closure of Roscommon A&E was Enda Kenny’s revenge on Denis Naughten because the Roscommon TD had been prominent (with Richard Bruton) in a move to oust Kenny as Fine Gael Leader.

Asked if he felt Denis Naughten would ultimately rejoin Fine Gael – or stay Independent – Mr. Connolly revealed his thinking: “The Enda Kenny saga is over. In fairness to Leo Varadkar (Fine Gael Leader) he has done a great job, especially with the Covid-19. I haven’t discussed this with Denis Naughten but if I was to sit down with him I would say that really and truly I think we should go back to Fine Gael. It’s a heartbreak to see how well they’re

doing (and not be involved)”.

Mr. Connolly indicated that he would be willing to go back into Fine Gael and that the time might be right for Deputy Naughten and Cllr. Fallon to follow suit. He stressed that he had not discussed the matter with either Denis Naughten or Laurence Fallon, and that it was a personal view.

“That era is over. The A&E isn’t open of course…but they are building a state-of-the-art Hospice (unit)”. * One of the best-known personalities in the area, Domnick Connolly speaks with passion and honesty about his childhood, his love of Fuerty and its environs, his lifetime in the GAA, Roscommon Hospital, a career in politics – and more. In particular, he speaks of the valued support of family and the wider community during his recent illness. As ever, the man is a tonic, and I know that his large circle of friends will be delighted to see him in good health and will wish him every good wish with his recovery.

You can listen to the full podcast via the Roscommon People website and/or on Sound Cloud.

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

05

06

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

A day trip to Sligo… spent in Boyle!

I’ve always had a soft spot for Boyle…

How can you not like a town so steeped in a fascinating history? Boyle has – like many towns – been economically challenged, having at times suffered in the face of the often unforgiving winds of change. But it breathes history, its buildings and streets possessing a character that draws the visitor towards its richly varied past.

As for history of a more showbiz nature, the legendary actress Maureen O’Sullivan was born there. She starred as Jane in those evocative Tarzan films of the 1930s and ‘40s.

The muscled hero was played by Johnny Weismuller.

Last week, Minister Heather Humphreys was in Boyle, supporting plans for regeneration of the town centre. Whether this leaves the role of a heroic modern-day Tarzan to Micheál Martin or Leo Varadkar, is debatable. Maybe toned tearaway Richard Bruton could not be overlooked?

Yeah, I’ve always had a soft spot for Boyle.

My late father was a native of Corrigeenroe/ Knockvicar. We heard a lot about Boyle when we were growing up. He had great stories of great characters, of places of intrigue. As a teenager, our father had worked for the gentry at Rockingham House.

When we got to see Boyle, and the beautiful countryside which embraces the town, we were charmed. There were many family trips to the fabulous Lough Key Forest Park, now back in all its glory.

When we were kids, my father used to ask us: “Would you rather be oiled in Boyle or boiled in oil?” (The catchphrase dates from the 1940s, apparently).

Forty years or so later, I went back to Boyle with my Dad (a few times) and his love for the place was evident.

On one trip, we went to see the house in which he was raised (in the 1930s). It was now occupied by a German family. As we circled it, my father quipped: “And see that satellite dish? That’s the very same dish we had when I was a child in that house!”

On Saturday, we set off for a first day trip of the pandemic. Sligo seemed like a good idea.

What could possibly go wrong?

What could go wrong?

Pandemic-pummelled, we’re long overdue this day trip! The sun is shining, and we’re free! The garden and numerous other chores

Beautiful Boyle! Picture courtesy: boyletoday.com

could wait. We had to be back by 7 pm, and were a bit concerned that traffic into Sligo might be heaving with beach-goers, but we’d deal with that when the time came.

The drive to Boyle is always a pleasure. We stopped at Cooney’s, which was buzzing. It’s a superb store, which has had a makeover since I was last there. I was well impressed. There was a positive atmosphere; sunshine putting it up to the (Covid) clouds of gloom.

Could anything go wrong? The car dashboard had been sending me messages…for a while.

‘ENGINE OIL (NEEDED)’ it solemnly declared – for some time. I purchased some oil in Cooney’s. After putting the oil in, we resumed our journey. No current affairs or sport on the radio today, which was fine; the girls had a playlist of ‘hits’ lined up.

Just as we reached Boyle Abbey, the smoke appeared. Smoke at The Vatican is a sign of progress; not so at Boyle Abbey. My heart sank.

Next, a smell, the scent of an engine in distress.

My heart sank lower. In my mind, I saw the day trip to Sligo collapsing, and I feared for the car engine too. We pulled in opposite the historic Abbey, merging history and hopelessness.

Our children (who’ve experienced one or two ‘car dramas’ on our family holidays over the years) were very good-humoured about the abrupt turn of events. They went for a walk, Fiona and I began to make calls for help. The man in ‘Roadside Assistance’ mused about sending someone to collect the car (€150).

Someone else would have to collect us, and later we’d have to get the car fixed. We agreed to talk to him again if we failed to source a friendly local garage. We got a mechanic on the line – he

was nice, but he was at a christening. I didn’t get the name (of the mechanic, or the baby). After another call or three, we got lucky. Very lucky.

The gentleman from McGlynn’s Garage (Deerpark, Boyle) came and drained the excess oil from the engine (I had put far too much in).

Then he asked us to drive after him, back to the garage. This we duly did.

At the garage, mechanic Kevin and boss Liam spent well over an hour on our car. Fabulous service. Our spluttering, smoking, smelling, rattling vehicle was skilfully rescued from what might have been.

They were very understanding. Boss Liam, an experienced garage man, broached the subject with tact. He knew, I knew, I had put far too much oil in. ‘Cos the ‘ENGINE OIL (NEEDED)’ symbol had been on for a day or two, and wouldn’t go off! He was chewing an apple, I was still on humble pie. He arched an eyebrow upwards.

“You…just went by the dashboard?”

Meekly, I agreed. He was easy on me. He was probably biting his lip, along with the apple.

“And the dipstick? You didn’t dip it?”

“I’m the dipstick” I whispered to Fiona, as the boss returned to the mysterious world under the raised bonnet.

Enjoying Boyle…

When the mechanic took our car for a spin up the Curlew Mountains, we walked a little in the beautiful sunshine. As chance would have it, we had ended up at McGlynn’s Garage, and just up from it, there was a sign for Corrigeenroe, where my Dad was born 90 years ago. I looked at it and

thought of my father, of conversations and days now gone.

Back in Boyle, motoring nicely again thanks to the two gentlemen and the excellent service from McGlynn’s, we met up with our children. It was too late to continue on to Sligo. Instead, we had a lovely afternoon in Boyle.

We spent a while in the very nice Boyle Pleasure Grounds, followed by a walk around town, as always inhaling its sense of history. King House. O’Sullivan’s home. The Abbey.

In ‘Ireland’s smallest bookshop’, we chatted with the friendly proprietor and bought a couple of books (no book on car engines that I could see). A charming store, well worth popping into.

A little later, a trip to the Gaelic Chieftain sculpture, followed by a lovely drive, savouring the beautiful scenery. We went as far as Lough Arrow, where there were plenty of campers, a lovely summer atmosphere, defying Covid!

It turned out to be very enjoyable day, even if there had been some unexpected drama.

Boyle and the surrounding countryside has a special charm, and great beauty.

When we met up with our children, out of the blue the girls revealed what their giddy analysis of our plight had been when they went for that walk earlier. At the time, they were walking, we were talking (to mechanics).

“It’s like that saying” they said, bridging almost half a century in my mind. “‘Would you rather be oiled in Boyle or boiled in oil?’

Well, we’ve been oiled in Boyle today!”

“

Just as we reached Boyle Abbey, the smoke appeared. Smoke at The Vatican is a sign of progress; not so at Boyle Abbey. My heart sank

07

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople

HUSQVARNA

HUSQVARNA STRIMMERS FROM: €260.00

A PERFECT MATCH...

HUSQVARNA RIDERS FROM: €2,815.00

Husqvarna riders reach places you never thought possible, helping you work in narrow spaces, on slopes and across all types of terrain. But you’ll find there’s more to a Husqvarna rider than just that. Our range of machines are specifically designed to offer different working solutions for different needs.

HUSQVARNA CHAINSAWS FROM: €192.00 Husqvarna develops its chainsaws with chainsaw users in mind. This is what enables Husqvarna to create chainsaws that help you work longer, producing less vibrations for less fatigue, and equipped with features that deliver high levels of safety.

HUSQVARNA GARDEN TRACTORS FROM: €2,924.00

A wide range of attachments and choice of several cutting methods give our garden tractors excellent versatility. Ideal for efficient lawn care and various tasks around your land. Choose between three different cutting systems for lawn care then fit a trailer, spreader and more for greater versatility.

Grass trimming can be tough, lengthy jobs that demand endurance from both machine and operator. This is why our trimmers combine power and extreme durability with low weight. They are designed to be easy to handle and to deliver results you can be proud of.

To ensure work is handled in the most comfortable way.

RM Tool Hire RM Tool Hire Unit 2, Manwar Industrial Park, 6, Roscommon West Galway Road, Tuam, Co. Galway, H54 V266 P: 093 234 79 / 087 8299628 E: rmtoolhire@gmail.com

WORKING HARD FOR YOU

Business Park, Circular Rd, Ballypheasan, Roscommon P: 090 663 0700 E: rmtoolhire@gmail.com

In 2001, Keadue was privileged to host the late John Hume to perform the official opening of the O’Carolan Harp Festival. John and his wife Pat received a rousing reception on the day, and his enlightening speech and rendition of the ‘The Town I Loved so Well’ is still remembered. Sincere condolences to his family from the people of Keadue, Co. Roscommon. (Picture shows John Hume receiving a presentation from local community activist, Padraic Noone).

CLAIRE

KERRANE TD

Main Street, Ballaghaderreen.

Tel. 094 9861688  : 087 194 5254 Bridge St, Ballinasloe. Tel. 090 9644901  : claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie Email:

KEEP UP TO DATE ON

John Hume visits to county recalled…

The late John Hume attended the opening of Castlerea Credit Union offices in 2004. Mr. Hume, a founder member of Derry Credit Union, served as President of the Irish League of Credit Unions when only in his mid20’s. He is photographed in Castlerea with Sean Browne (left) of Castlerea Credit Union and (on right) the late Vincent McKeon, also a member of Castlerea Credit Union at the time.

08

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople

National Heritage Week 2020 is happening – and it’s a Heritage Week with a difference!

National Heritage Week, one of Ireland’s largest cultural events, runs from Saturday, 15th-Sunday, 23rd August. It will be marked locally by a series of heritage projects developed by groups across Roscommon.

Local heritage groups and organisers, families and communities across the country have developed projects around this year’s theme of ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’.

The theme is designed to promote the sharing of experience and knowledge, while ensuring the country’s heritage is more inclusive than ever in restricted times. Based on this year’s theme, projects were developed around three broad subthemes: Heritage of your doorstep; heritage and education; and relearning skills from our heritage.

All projects shared via the www.hertageweek.ie website before the end of August will be considered for a National Heritage Week Award.

Discover the Heritage Week projects happening in Roscommon: A Dictionary of Roscommon Biography – 20 years of research, obituaries of 5,000 people spanning four centuries and back to the 10th century for the historic O’Conor family. This book by Mike Lennon covers the careers of people from politics, sport, arts, religion, law, business and journalism.

It also showcases the genealogies of prominent families in the county.

View the book and check out its new website www. roscommonbiography. com Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, Tulsk – present three short videos that will feature a taste of the archaeology, history and mythology of some local monuments from Connacht’s Ancient Capital, Rathcroghan-Crúachan Aí.

Virtual ‘Dig-It’ The Archaeological Experience for Children – Join archaeologist Alan Healy on a large road project in Co. Roscommon. In this short video Alan explains what archaeology is and the different stages of an archaeological excavation. Children can take part in a ‘virtual’ excavation, complete a postexcavation report and claim their certification of completion!

Guided Tour of Ro-

scommon Abbey – Join Dr. Kieran O’Conor, NUI Galway, for a video ‘virtual’ guided tour of Roscommon Abbey. The link to the video will be shared on Roscommon County Council social media platforms on Saturday, 22nd August.

Fun at Portrun Solo Adventure 2020 – Portrun Development Association CLG are raising awareness of the beauty of the heritage and biodiversity our doorstep. Information will be of interest to all ages, especially the younger age bracket.

Information and pickup point at the Portrun shoreline.

Dead Time. Unlocking the diary of Olive Pakenham Mahon, 1914 – Strokestown Park present a short audio/visual piece in collaboration between an archivist and an actress, who, combining their very different perspectives and skills, are endeavouring to bring archives to life in authentic and relatable ways.

A Guided Tour of Roscommon Castle – Join Dr. Kieran O’Conor from NUI Galway as he takes us on a video tour of Roscommon Castle. This link to this video will be shared on Roscommon County Council social media platforms on Sunday, 23rd August.

2020 Additions to the Roscommon Folklore and Oral History Collection – all are invited to check out a booklet outlining the collection as it stood in 2016. We look forward to launching the 2020 additions and inviting all to enjoy the collection in your local library when Covid-19 restrictions allow.

Discovering Oran’s Old Graveyard – Seven local volunteers have recorded over 180 grave inscriptions and entered the data on to www.historicgraves. ie. They have produced an information leaflet on the history of the graveyard, which can be downloaded.

Exploring the History of Crofton Estate, Mote Park, Roscommon – this online lecture will showcase the architectural remnants of the former Crofton Estate and provide an overview of the area’s rich history and heritage from early archaeological periods to the present day.

ing the family history of a teacher born in Kilteevan who taught in a local school in the 1860s. The outcome of this project will be shared with Kilteevan community.

NATIONAL HERITAGE WEEK 2020 IS HAPPENING – AND IT’S A HERITAGE WEEK WITH A DIFFERENCE! Rather than focusing on the organisation of in-person public events, projects will be largely virtual & online. There will be no printed county or national event guide this year.

Local heritage groups and organisers, families and communities are showcasing projects which focus on this year’s theme ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’.

Projects in Roscommon, Kilteevan, Rathcroghan, Oran-Ardkieran, Portrunny, Mote Park, Boyle, Ballaghaderreen, Scramogue, Portahard, Cootehall and county wide will be showcased.

Details of projects can be viewed on www.heritageweek.ie All projects will be considered for a National Heritage Week Award including an award for the best project in each county. Awards will be announced in October 2020.

Roscommon County Council supports National Heritage Week as an action of County Roscommon Heritage Plan 2017-2021.

Majella Hunt, Director of Services Roscommon County Council

Roscommon War Dead – Roscommon Historical Group plan to remember the names of Roscommon men who died in world conflicts or at home – over 530 from the First World War, 35 from the Second World War and members of An Garda Síochána.

Lecture Series on the Archaeology of the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramogue Road Project – a lecture series on the exciting archaeological works being undertaken on the N5-Ballaghaderreen-Scramoge Road Project, will run on the Rathcroghan Facebook page: Monday, 17th August – ‘In the Shadow of Rathcroghan’ – a synopsis of the archaeological work on the N5 scheme to date and a summary of the discoveries by Deirdre McCarthy, Roscommon County Council N5 Resident Archaeologist.

Tuesday 18th – ‘Ancestral Places’ – the multiphase site at Gortnacrannagh, where an enclosure, ring ditches, burials and burnt mound were excavated by John Channing, AMS site director. Wednesday 19th – ‘At Home in Roscommon’ – the built heritage surveys and excavations on vernacular structures, with special emphasis on some interesting artefacts

by Eve Campbell, AMS site director. Thursday 20th – ‘Settlement & Cemetery’ – the Bronze Age landscape, including houses, cremations and burnt mounds excavated at Ballaghcullia (available in English/Irish)

by Patrick Walsh, AMS site director. Friday 21st – ‘Hidden in Plain Sight’ – the excavation of a conjoined ringfort at Killeen East with four associated souterrains and burials by Brian O’Hara, AMS site director.

Farming in a Royal Landscape: Rathcroghan, Co. Roscommon – a newsletter and video to introduce work of the Farming Rathcroghan EIP Field Monument Advisor – working with landowners to offer solutions that continue to protect and preserve the royal landscape of Rathcroghan.

Make a Bug Hotel – Join ‘Daíthí’ & ‘Buzzbee’ and their friend ‘Tinee’ in this short video for young children. Buzzbee is delighted with his new home and children can see how to make a Bug Hotel for their garden too!

Regenerating Roscommon Town’s Spire Quarter – The landmarks which define this quarter

include St. Coman’s Church of Ireland b.

1778; Sacred Heart RC Church b. 1897-1903 & Roscommon Methodist Church b. 1905. Plans to rescue, restore and rejuvenate this area are presented and explained.

Virtual Visit to King House – a short video visit to this magnificently restored Georgian mansion in Boyle which was built in 1730.

Mysterious Monuments – During the lockdown, Roscommon County Council invited people to see what they could find out about a mysterious monument. There was only one catch – the monument had to be in County Roscommon. See the research submitted and find out who won the prize!

Remembering Teachers who taught in Kilteevan Schools from their Memorials – and finding out as much as possible about them. Kilteevan graveyard committee will share what they found out through the parish newsletter mailing list, Kilteevan community website and facebook.

Back to the Drawing Board with a Teacher from Kilteevan – explor-

Bringing Kilteevan Schools’ Folklore Collection to the Parish Audience – This year’s theme of education has prompted project organiser Hazel Ryan to revisit the Schools Folklore Collection and people from Kilteevan who were involved in it in the 1930s. The outcome of this project will be shared with Kilteevan community.

Eighteenth Century Roscommon ‘In the News’ – an online lecture [free] & booklet [€5] launch with proceeds going to Cootehall Development Group on early 18th century newspapers and some of their main stories e.g. an 108-year-old man in Boyle in 1732, a murdering innkeeper in Roscommon in 1760, Peep-o-day boys in Ballinlough in 1777, and ‘on the runs’ at Castlerea in 1787.

Demo of County Roscommon Cemeteries Mapviewer – Roscommon County Council have developed a Cemeteries Mapviewer to present all available cemetery information to the public.

This short video will show people where to find the cemeteries mapviewer and how to use it.

Alderford Harps – short video presented by Fiachra O’Gaoithin, shows Alderford Harps at work, explains the construction of the replica harps, and has moments filmed at O’Carolan’s grave in Kilronan Cemetery.

Elphin Windmill – dates back to the 1740s when it was used to grind wheat to make stone ground flour and to grind oats for porridge. The Windmill and Farm Museum will be open during Heritage Week.

The Common Swift: Survey of Nest Sites in Roscommon Town – Roscommon Tidy Towns share the results of their swift survey.

Castlecoote House – grounds are open to group tours for €2 only.

Special offer on their homemade apple juice and jams. They have measures put in place

coinciding with public health advice. Call +353 (0)90 6663794 to book your tour.

Letting in the LightThe Art of the Wood Engraver – this video documents the work of a wood engraver, showcasing this historic skill and the work of a traditional craftsperson and artist.

A Virtual Tour of Rindoon – Join Dr. Kieran O’Conor from NUI Galway in a series of seven short videos as he explains the historical context, development and decline of this deserted medieval walled town.

Drum Heritage Centre – open Monday to Friday 10 am to 2.30 pm for Heritage Week on a restricted scale, phone 085 2094555 or email drumheritage@ gmail.com in advance.

Guided tours of local heritage sites available on request.

Guided Tour of Keadue Heritage Sites – organised by Keadue Community and conducted

by Dr. Kieran O’Conor of N.U.I.G. on Wednesday, August 19th at 6.30 pm, meet at Knockranny Wood car park. Covid-19 restrictions social distancing to be observed at all times. Enquiries to info@ keadue.net.

Heritage Celebrations in Ballintuber – new Looped Walking Trail, artist’s depiction of the castle and awards for the Biodiversity Photography Competition. These events are invite only due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Follow Ballintubber Tidy Towns on facebook for updates from all projects.

Suck Valley Way Adventures – Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th Suck Valley Way/Fr. O’Flanagan Canoe/kayak tour. Saturday 22nd memorial mass & ‘The life and times of Fr. Michael O‘Flanagan’ talk (Aidan Cooke, Author) and Éamon Ó Cuív, T.D. Sunday, 23rd Suck Valley Way/Fr O’Flanagan cycle & canoe/kayak tour.

Roscommon County Council supports National Heritage Week as an action of County Roscommon Heritage Plan 2017-2021. For more information on Heritage Week events near you, and events happening online, visit www.heritageweek.ie.

09

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

PAUL HEALY’S TAKE ON TOP TWEETS!

an absolute legend! Best thing I’ve seen on telly in a very long time. #Sean #seanboylan #legend #upmeath – On and on it went…

opponent everyone dreams of!

– This occasional(!) tweeter wasn’t so impressed…

Henry Shefflin @ShefflinHenry #SeanBoylan brilliant documentary. A man of integrity and a leader of men – A hurling man recognises another hurling man!

Eamonn O’ Hara @EamonnOHara8 FACT: Sean Boylan (pictured above), is an unbelievably lovely human being #sean #gaa – Viewers were raving about the RTE documentary on former Meath GAA boss Sean Boylan…

Gary Rispin @Garrip Sean Boylan saying maybe he could run for President. Ridiculous. So humble and modest...the man should be the next Pope! #Sean – Yep, raving…(maybe a bit over the top!)

Niamh Kelly @_NiamhKelly_ I just love Seán Boylan so much, what

Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan @lukeming Listening to Tubridy after the news is like leaving the extractor fan on after you’ve cooked dinner. It’s only when you turn it off do you realise how annoying it was.

– I’m ‘extracting’ from this tweet that Ming isn’t a ‘fan’ of Ryan…

Bess Kalb @bessbell My heart goes out to Mike Pence and the entire Pence family on the tragic news of the upcoming Vice Presidential debate.

– There was a predictably frenzied reaction when US Presidential candidate Joe Biden finally selected a running mate (Kamala Harris - pictured right) Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump @KamalaHarris started strong in the Democrat Primaries, and finished weak, ultimately fleeing the race with almost zero support. That’s the kind of

Klassic Cleaners

Church Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6625995

T&C apply

Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan Next business. What is the Kamala Harris Irish connection? Hopefully, she might be able to attend the resumed Puck Fair next year as VP! – Michael gets to the important point!

Piers Morgan @piersmorgan The UK has suffered the worst #coronavirus death toll in Europe AND now the worst recession in Europe.

This would suggest we have the most incompetent Govt in Europe.

– Piers won’t be partying in Downing Street any time soon…

Summer Suits/Jackets offer

20% OFF

for month of August

Washable Face Masks

including Roscommon colours Made in Roscommon

Opening hours: 9 am to 5pm Monday to Saturday

10

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople

HORAN’S RESTAURANT Racecourse Rd., Roscommon Town

For great homecooked food you can’t beat Horan’s family run restaurant.

We put our food first

Conexão Brasileira BRAZILIAN connection with Catia Da Nova

Outside catering a speciality Great Weekend Breakfast Menu including pancakes, omelettes, full Irish, etc.

SUNDAY LUNCH includes Roast Dinners, 7oz Steak Burgers, Stir frys and our very popular Fresh Cod with Homemade Tartare Sauce

Call John on 090 6626380 or 086 8538519

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified.

Road to be closed: N60 Ballymoe Junction with R361 to Castlerea Town.

Period of Closure: From 24th August to 3rd October 2020.

Alternative Routes: R361 (through Trien) & R360 (through Williamstown).

Reason for Closures: Resurfacing works on the N60 Shane Tiernan, Director of Services

AN CHUIRT DUICHE (The District Court) The District Court Area of Ballaghaderreen District No. 4 REGISTRACTION OF CLUBS (Ireland) 1904-1995 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR RENEWAL OF A CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION UNDER THE REGISTRATION OF CLUBS (Ireland) 1904-1995 IN RESPECT OF THE BALLAGHADERREEN GOLF CLUB OR THE ALTERNATIVE REGISTRATION UNDER THE SAID ACT TAKE NOTICE that an application will be made on behalf of Helen Curran Hon Secretary of Ballaghaderreen Golf Club situate at Aughulistia, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon at Ballaghaderreen District Court on the 11th of September 2020 at Ballaghaderreen at 12 Noon for a renewal of the Certificate of Registration of the said Club under the Provisions of the said Acts.

Dated this 28th July 2020 SIGNED Fahy Neilan & Company, Solicitors, Station Road, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

(Solicitors for the Applicant) TO

The Superintendent, Garda Siochana, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

The Sergeant in Charge, Garda Station, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

The District Court Clerk, The Courthouse, Roscommon.

The Chief Fire Officer, The Courthouse, Roscommon.

Covid

Ainda não se foi! Na sexta-feira passada, o governo impôs novas restrições a 3 condados; Kildare, Laois e Offaly, evitando que qualquer pessoa que viva nesses condados viaje para fora deles desnecessariamente. Este é um aviso para o resto de nós. Devemos continuar a agir com responsabilidade, porque se o número de novos casos continuar a aumentar, vamos nos encontrar novamente em restrição.

Independentemente do que você pensa sobre as regras impostas, se você usar uma máscara quando necessário e continuar a lavar e higienizar as mãos regularmente, você ajudará a reduzir a possibilidade de novas restrições serem impostas.

Com a reabertura das escolas marcada para setembro, o governo não se arriscará no esforço de minimizar o número de novos casos. Os pubs permanecerão fechados para limitar as ocasiões em que um grande número de pessoas pode se misturar livremente. Parece muito injusto que algumas empresas estejam sendo sacrificadas, especialmente no setor de produção de alimentos, enquanto outras têm permissão para continuar a operar, apesar dos altos níveis de testes positivos entre os funcionários.

Todo esse pesadelo está muito longe de acabar. A conversa sobre uma vacina diminuiu, embora o valor de uma vacina bem-sucedida pareça ter saltado de milhões de dólares para bilhões. Como sempre, alguém vai lucrar bem com o que foi um desastre para a maioria de nós, a saga continua...

Vamos pra praia!

Falei com uma amiga no fim de semana que fez uma pequena saida. Sua família foi passar alguns dias em Co. Clare, em um resort à beira-mar. Ficaram muito

desapontados, porém ao descobrir que a praia estava fechada devido à contaminação da água. Como as crianças devem ter ficado desapontadas! Portanto, se você estiver planejando uma viagem para qualquer parte do país, talvez seja melhor verificar primeiro se esta interditada ou se hà algumas restrições em vigor!

Sequestramento de Cachorros Se você é dono de um cachorro, lembrese de manter seu animal seguro em todos os momentos. Houve um grande número de cães roubados na Irlanda nas últimas semanas. Acredita-se que a maioria deles sejam contrabandeada para o Reino Unido, onde os preços de todas as raças aumentaram dramaticamente nos últimos meses.

Ladrões de cães são pessoas sem coração e sentimentos. São oportunistas que vão roubar qualquer cachorro que puderem.

Houve até relatos de cães sendo retirados dos jardins da frente enquanto seus donos estavam presentes. Não se arrisque, mantenha seu jardim e portão trancado com segurança no quintal ou, de preferência, dentro de casa quando você tiver que deixálos sem vigilância.

Parabéns à minha colega brasileira Sancha Moran da Sancha Events, Roscommon, por sua indicação para a categoria empresária solo no Prêmio Mulher de Negócios do Ano 2020 da Network Ireland.

A Sancha Events é especializada em planejamento e coordenação de casamentos dentro e fora do país.

Sancha pode ser contatada em sanchasevents @ outlook.ie. Instagram: sanchaevents

Covid

It hasn’t gone away! Last Friday, the government imposed new restrictions on three counties – Kildare, Laois and Offaly – preventing anyone living in these counties from travelling outside of them unnecessarily. This is a warning to the rest of us. We must continue to act responsibly, because if numbers of new cases continue to rise, we will find ourselves in lockdown again.

Regardless of what you think of the rules being imposed, if you wear a mask when required and continue to regularly wash and sanitise your hands, you will help to reduce the possibility of fresh restrictions being imposed.

With schools set to reopen in September,

the Government will take no chances in an effort to minimise the number of new cases. Pubs will stay closed to limit the occasions when large numbers of people can mix freely. It seems very unfair that some businesses are being sacrificed, particularly in the food production sector, while others are permitted to continue to operate despite high levels of positive testing among staff.

This whole nightmare is a long way from over. The talk of a vaccine has abated, although the value of a successful one appears to have jumped from million of dollars to billions. As always, somebody is going to profit well from what has been a disaster for most of us. The saga continues…

Off to the beach!

I spoke to a friend at the weekend that had taken a short break. Her family went to Co. Clare for a couple of days to a seaside resort. They were very disappointed, however, to discover the beach closed due to contamination of the water. How disappointed the children must have been!

So if you’re planning a trip to the beach, in whatever part of the country, maybe it would be best to check first to see what closures or restrictions are in place!

Dog-napping If you are a dog owner, please remember to keep your pet safe at all times. There have been a huge number of dogs stolen in Ireland in recent weeks. It is believed that most of them have been smuggled into the UK, where prices of all breeds have risen dramatically in recent months.

Dog thieves are heartless, ruthless people.

They are opportunists who will snatch any dog they can. There have even been reports of dogs being taken from front gardens while their owners were present. Don’t take any chances; keep your garden securely locked, and keep your dog in a back garden or preferably indoors when you have to leave them unattended.

Congratulations to my fellow Brazilian Sancha Moran from Sancha Events, Roscommon on her nomination for the solo businesswoman category in Network Ireland’s Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2020.

Sancha Events specialises in wedding planning and coordination for destination weddings. Sancha can be contacted on sanchasevents @outlook.ie. Instagram: sanchaevents

LET THE SUNSHINE INTO YOUR HOME Create more light Create more light in your Inhome your home

with our Lift and with ourSlide LiftPatio and Slide Patio Doors in Aluminium, PVC Doors in Aluminium, PVC and and Hardwood - Extensive Hardwood - Extensive range of range of Roof Lights also Roof Lights also available. available.

Contact Contact us today onus today on 090 6626753 / 01 4626671 090 6626753 / 01 4626671

Social distancing and hand hygiene standards apply in our showrooms for your safety

11

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople

Cathy Jordan, singer and percussion player, who will host the ‘Reel Thing’ gig on August 14th in Roscommon Arts Centre.

Cathy launches ‘Reel Thing’ music series this Friday evening On Friday, August 14th, Roscommon Arts Centre launches its re-imagined performance programme with its first live performance since lockdown with a new series of ‘Reel Thing’ gigs.

The series will be launched by host for the evening Cathy Jordan, whose guests include the renowned fiddle player Sean Regan and harpist Kim Fleming, both of whom will join Cathy on stage for some tunes and chat for this cabaret-style gig.

Cathy Jordan is a lead singer and percussion player with award-winning Irish traditional powerhouse Dervish for over 25 years.

Sean Regan was born in Manchester to Irish parents and grew up amidst a vibrant Irish traditional music scene. At 19, Sean joined ‘Toss the Feathers’, teaming up with Michael McGoldrick, before moving to Castlerea (his father’s home town) in 2003. Instantly identifiable for his versatile, sweet fiddle-playing combined with a unique sensitivity, he has recorded and

toured with some amazing musicians.

Kim Fleming is one of Ireland’s most respected harpists and enjoys a successful career as a musician, teacher and arranger of traditional Irish repertoire. Having travelled throughout Europe, Africa, USA and Russia, Kim is now settled in Longford where she teaches music.

Tickets are now on sale from box office on 0906 625824 and online at: www.roscommonartscentre.ie. Seating capacity is limited and tickets must be purchased in advance.

Out in the Open 2020 ‘Out in the Open 2020’ kicks off on August 22nd and 23rd, with support from Creative Ireland and Roscommon County Council Arts Office.

Several events will take place over the two days.

On August 22nd at 3 pm in Roscommon town, there will be a collaborative performance by South Roscommon Singers Circle and artist Noel Molloy, entitled ‘BIRD’. From 3.45 pm, the event continues with art exhibitions in shop windows on The Square and Main Street, Roscommon, followed by a ‘walk and talk’ plus songs in response to the artwork.

In Knockcroghery on Sunday, August 23rd at 1 pm, a talk entitled ‘War of Independence’ (by Jim Greally) is set to

take place, followed by a War of Independence art exhibition and a ‘walk and talk’ plus songs in response to the subject. There will also be a singers’ session afterwards in Murray’s Bar/Mai’s Kitchen.

Due to Covid-19, social distancing will be maintained and masks must be worn indoors.

All events will be streamed live via South Roscommon Singers Festival Facebook page.

Update from Sacred Heart Church

Weekend Masses have been arranged for parishioners on August 15th/16th on a station-area basis, and are as follows: 7 pm (Vigil Mass) at Abbeyville, AbbeyVale, Glenview, and The Spinney; 9 am at Castle Street, Castle Park, Cherry Drive, and Brookvale Ave.; and 11.30 am at Cloonbrackna Ave., Cloonbrackna Court, and Fallon Ave.

UNEMPLOYED? Are you looking to retrain after COVID? Or been unemployed for a period of time? We are offering courses that may interest you, you get to keep your social welfare entitlements along with a travel & meal allowance, you can also work 20 hours a week, with term time September to May.

VTOS is the main provider of Education for unemployed adults in County Roscommon, administered by Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB).

We offer a choice of subjects which are diverse, flexible and are accredited by QQI. Our Awards range from QQI Level 4-5 Subjects include ICT Skills, Business Administration, Healthcare, Horticulture, Horsemanship, Tourism with Business and Art & Design.

BOYLE VTOS Centre, Marion Road, Boyle, Co Roscommon •

QQI Level 5 Horsemanship

•

QQI Levels 5 Organic Horticulture

•

QQI Level 5 Business Administration

Please contact coordinator Donal J. Farrell, ph: 086-8262825, email: donalj.farrell@gretb.ie

CASTLEREA GRETB Further Education & Training Centre, Patrick St., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon •

QQI Level 5 Tourism with Business

•

QQI Level 5 Business Administration

•

QQI Level 5 Art & Design

Please contact coordinator Kathleen McNulty, ph: 086-0617941, email: Kathleen.mcnulty@gretb.ie

ROSCOMMON VTOS Centre, Lanesboro St, Roscommon Town •

QQI Level 4 ICT Skills

•

QQI Level 5 Business Administration

•

QQI Level 5 Health Service Skills

Please contact coordinator Orla Connaughton, ph: 086-7738705, email: orla.connaughton@gretb.ie •

Courses are provided free of charge, there is also a travel and meal allowance, all Books, materials, exams and field trips are free of charge.

•

Childcare places are available in recognised ECCE settings (TEC Scheme). Further information on this from Roscommon County Childcare Committee 094-9622540.

•

There are no formal education requirements to join but a QQI Level 4 or equivalent would be an advantage.

•

To be eligible to join you will need to be available for a full-time course, over 21 years of age and in receipt of jobseekers allowance/jobseekers benefit or signing for credits for at least six months, a number of other DSP categories are eligible such as disability or a dependent spouse for at least six months.

For further information, please contact any of the above co-ordinators If you have already received confirmation of a place/interview on VTOS there is no need to reapply For further information, go to: www.fetchcourses.ie

12

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

The

G

Happy 70 key!

Mic birthday, th

D News page

There was a surprise drive-by 70th birthday celebration for Roscommon GAA great Mickey Freyne last weekend. Mickey was Roscommon’s first ever All Star! Another legend, Danny Burke, delivered the birthday cake to GAA great Mickey Freyne! Mickey played with Roscommon for a number of years and with Castlerea St. Kevin’s at club level. He won an All Star in 1972, having made his Roscommon debut that year. Photos: Mick McCormack

Mikey plays his part to a ‘tea’ Three friends with support needs are the stars of a newly-released video by a celebrated independent documentary filmmaker.

Mikey, Malachy and Rachel have been filmed by Swedish-based filmmaker Matthew D’Arcy explaining/showing how they live independent lives in Monksland with the support of Roscommon charity StepIn Independent Living.

StepIn is an organisation that enables people with disabilities to live in the heart of the community. The new video, which is being launched on YouTube on Thursday, August 13th (today) and is due for screening at conferences, shows exactly how that happens.

Matthew, who cut his teeth with the BBC and Channel 4 – making shows such as The Great British Bake Off – follows the friends as they go about their lives shopping in SuperValu in Monksland, chatting with the staff, sharing a cup of tea at home, doing the household chores, and watching videos together.

The film is intended to show how it’s possible for everyone to live with real independence, and lead more fulfilled, engaged lives as good neighbours in the community.

Also shown in the short film are Aisling Hynes and Louise Coll, staff members with StepIn, who provide some practical support but stand back to allow Mikey, Rachel, Malachy and others to live their own lives.

‘Tea with Mikey’ will be released on YouTube on Thursday, August 13th on the StepIn Independent Living channel.

It may also be viewed at www.stepin.ie.

Mikey, who features in the film.

New Roscommon Writing Award 2020 shortlist The shortlist for Roscommon County Council’s New Roscommon Writing Award 2020 has just been announced.

Adjudicator Orlagh Kelly, proprietor of The Reading Room Bookshop in Carrick-

on-Shannon, has selected a shortlist of ten stories from the fifty-eight stories entered.

Rhona McGrath, Arts Officer, is pleased to congratulate and announce the shortlisted writers (one of the writers has two

stories on the shortlist): Carol Beirne, Anne Byrne, Helen Cunningham, Margaret Deehan, Emer Fitzpatrick, Michael Fox, Susan Graham, Evelyn Kileen McCrann, Marita O’Flanagan.

Prizewinners will be announced

in September. The winner will receive a prize of €500 from Roscommon County Council and will be officially named the New Roscommon Writer of 2020. The four runners-up will receive a prize of €100.

Pictured is Cáít Gleeson, general manager at Gleeson’s Townhouse and Restaurant.

Gleeson’s win TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award Gleeson’s Roscommon has just won a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, putting them in the top 10% of hotels worldwide.

This is a significant tribute for the family-run Roscommon business, located in a restored 1872 listed building. TripAdvisor is the biggest travel review website in the world with a staggering 200 million user reviews.

Based on millions of reviews and opinions from travellers from around the world, the annual award recognises the very best tourism establishments in terms of service, quality, customer satisfaction and more, across a range of categories.

A delighted Cáit Gleeson, General Manager, Gleeson’s Roscommon, said: “Our whole team works very hard to give every guest the best possible experience and this is confirmation that our guests appreciate it, and enjoy their stay with us”.

13

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople

Calls grow for new footpath on key route local authority is in no position to make any commitments with regards to when any such works might happen.

This week, two local county councillors advised that they have been in contact with Roscommon County Council executive.

In a press statement, Cllr. Marty McDermott, who lives in the area, said he has had a number of meetings with Roscommon County Council. He’s lobbying for a footpath to be provided along the entire route, citing safety as a key issue.

Cllr. McDermott says that Council chiefs fully appreciate the case that is being made, but they cannot presently commit to

Kerrane: ‘Reverse online only policy on driving licences’

F R E S H

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has contacted the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) on their policy of online only renewal of driving licences.

Deputy Kerrane said: “In recent weeks I have been made aware of a number of cases locally where people have been unable to renew their driver’s licence.

“This is due to a change in policy by the NDLS, that now means driving licences can only be renewed online.

This assumes that everyone has access to a computer, can use a computer and has access to broadband. This of course, is not the case. For older people in particular, this new NDLS rule makes it impossible for them to renew their licence.

“I have contacted the NDLS, who have passed my correspondence to the Road Safety Authority and I have also contacted Eamon Ryan, Minister for Transport.

“I have no issue with people being able to renew their licence online, however online should be one of the options, not the only option. This decision by the NDLS must be reversed”.

REGISTRATION OF CLUBS ACTS, 1904 TO 1999 APPLICATION FOR RENEWAL OF CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION District Court Area of Roscommon District No. 4 PAULA CONNAUGHTON Applicant I, PAULA CONNAUGHTON of Ardsallagh, Athlone Road Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon Secretary of Roscommon Golf Club whose premises are situate at Mote Park, Roscommon, County Roscommon in Court area and District aforesaid, hereby apply for a renewal of the Certificate of Registration of the above mentioned Club at the District Court to be held at Roscommon in the County of Roscommon on the 15th day of September 2020.

The object of the said Club is “Golf Club”.

I enclose the following documents:(a) A Certificate signed by two peace Commissioners (b) Two copies of the Club Rules (c) A List of the NAMES IN FULL (not initials) and addresses of the Officials and Committee of Management or Governing Body of the Club (d) A list of the names of the members of the Club (e) The prescribed Court Fee. Dated the 11th day of August 2020 Signed:

PAULA CONNAUGHTON

Secretary of the above Club Signed:

Mahon Sweeney

Club Solicitors, Roscommon To: The Registrar of Clubs, District Court Office, Roscommon AND TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

any timeline on when any such enhancements might be provided.

Meanwhile, Cllr. Tony Waldron says he is confident that the project will get the green light.

Cllr. McDermott: “I met with the Council executive again on this issue recently. I sought clarity on it. The Council has pledged to draw up a design, but they won’t be pushed on a timeline at the moment. They understand the concerns people have and appreciate that the issue needs to be addressed.

“I am grateful to the Council for their ongoing engagement with me on this. As a resident of the area, I am very conscious of the increased volume of traffic in the

area, and of how many people exercise there by walking, running, cycling. I intend to continue to work tirelessly on this issue. I will keep the public fully informed”.

Cllr. Waldron: “I had a meeting with the relevant Director of Services this week. I can confirm that Roscommon County Council will be putting in an application for funding and are preparing a plan. I think it’s vital from a safety point of view that the works are carried out in due course. It’s also important from a tourism point of view…after all, there’s a hotel and a Golf Club on that route. It’s essential that this project gets the go-ahead and I am confident that it will”.

Cllr. Anthony Waldron

R A N G E

fresh always

n eve r f rozen

100% PRIME IRISH BEEF & QUALITY CHICKEN BREAST

FRESH CHICKEN BREAST SANDWICH

FRESH WHOLEMEAL GRILLED CHICKEN SANDWICH - 350Kcal* -

FRESH 5oz BEEF BURGER

CASEY’S ROSCOMMON - 090 6638000 WE DELIVER

DRIVE THRU

CALL & COLLECT

EAT IN

ORDER ONLINE

SUPERMACS.IE

*Meal served with Regular Fries & Regular drink *Calorie count based on sauce of your choice.

Cllr. Marty McDermott.

Calls are growing on Roscommon County Council to provide a substantial new footpath (with lighting) on one of the most popular recreational routes in the county town.

A strong case is being made for significant improvement works to be carried out on the stretch of road from Hannon’s Hotel to Golf Links Road.

The road in question is extremely popular for runners, walkers, cyclists, etc. There is also heavy traffic in the area, where a number of new houses have been built in recent years.

It is understood that while Roscommon County Council is to begin the process of seeking funding for a project there, the

14

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

FarmingPeople Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS.

• ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. • YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. • ALL STOCK TO BE PENNED BY 10 A.M. • RESTRICTIONS IN PLACE FOR BOTH BUYERS AND SELLERS DUE TO COVID 19.

• ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M.

FORTHCOMING SHOWS AND SALES AS AND FROM MONDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER: BULLOCK SALE WILL RESUME ON MONDAYS. 17TH SEPTEMBER: CONTINENTAL WEANLING SHOW AND SALE. 21ST SEPTEMBER: CONTINENTAL BULLOCK SHOW AND SALE. 24TH SEPTEMBER: CONTINENTAL HEIFER SHOW AND SALE AND BELGIAN BLUE WEANLING SHOW AND SALE. 28TH SEPTEMBER: AA BULLOCK SHOW AND SALE. 1ST OCTOBER: AA HEIFER SHOW AND SALE.

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

Number 002414

Elphin Mart Monday evening 17th August

Weanlings, Dry Cows, CLEARANCE SALE of 12 Cows & Shorthorn Calves at foot, Shorthorn Bull, Bullocks & Heifers • Sale @ 6.00p.m Gates open @ 3.00 p.m.

• Viewing @5.00p.m to 6.00 p.m by appointment • All cattle must be pre booked.

• Usual sheep sale @ 7.00p.m.

• All sheep must be pre booked.

Wednesday 19th August

Special Heifer & Bullock Sale @11.00a.m 300 on offer Please contact: 071/9635061

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

€50m fund must get to beef finishers quickly – IFA IFA President Tim Cullinan has welcomed the announcement from Minister Dara Calleary on the details of the Beef Finisher payment scheme. €50m had been announced in June in recognition of the difficulties that beef finishers had endured because of Brexit and Covid-19 disruption.

Tim Cullinan said it’s crucial that the money gets out to farmers as soon as possible and that the full €50m is spent.

“There should be a provision to increase

the payment per animal if there is any underspend”. IFA National Livestock Chairman Brendan Golden encouraged farmers to apply once the scheme opens on August 19th.

“The scheme will apply to farmers who had cattle slaughtered between February 1st and June 12th. It’s expected the payment will be in the region of €100 per head. This will be a significant boost for the autumn cattle trade”.

MART WATCH Roscommon Mart Report Sheep sale, Wednesday, August 12th 2020: This week there was an improvement in trade. Finished lambs made up to €116 for 48.3kgs. There was excellent quality ewe lambs on offer with prices fetching as high as €117. Stag ewes made from €90 up to €130 per head.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. Our next sheep sale is next Wednesday, August 19th. Sheep are to be penned by 10 am on day of sale.

Finished lambs, sample prices: 48.3 kgs €116, 51.2 kgs €115, 51 kgs €114, 50 kgs €111, 45 kgs €110, 47.5kgs €108, 45.7 kgs €108, 45.7 kgs €107, and 45.4kg €105.

Ewe lambs, sample prices: L 43.3kgs €117, 44.4kgs €116, 43.7 kgs €115, 51 kgs €114, 42.7kgs €112, 40.9kgs €102, and 39.5kgs €100.

Store lambs, sample prices: 40.7 kgs €96, 41 kgs €93, 37.2 kgs €92.5, 35.4 kgs €91, 35.5kgs €89, 38.2 kgs €87, 34.4 kgs €87, 31.3 kgs €85, 36.1kgs €77, and 31.80 kgs €74.

Cast ewes made from €90 to €130 per lot.

Breeding ewes, Saturday, August 8th 2020: There was a very large entry of breeding sheep on offer at our sale on Saturday last, with plenty of customers anxious for stock.

Hoggets fetched up to €245, two-year-old ewes made up to €184, and three-year-olds made up to €160. Sales continue for breeding sheep on Saturday next, August 15th.

Included in the sale is a clearance of approximately seventy top quality breeding ewes for Thomas Varley, Emlaghmore House, Donamon, Co. Roscommon (due

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

to change of farming enterprise).

Genuine three and four-year-old Mule X, Suffolk X, Galway ewes, and Pedigree Charollais sheep on sale (nine hogget rams and thirtythree ram lambs). Viewing is from 12 noon to 13.45 pm.

Sale of dry cows, heifers, and bullocks, Friday, August 7th 2020: There was a large entry of excellent quality stock on offer at Friday’s sale, with a brisk trade both at the ringside and online, resulting in a good clearance. Bullocks averaged from €2.23 per kilo up to €3.08 per kilo ,with a 90% sold Heifers ranged from an average of €2.24 per kilo up to €2.96 per kilo, with 82% sold. Dry cows made from an average of €1.76 per kilo up to €2.01 per kilo.

Friday, August 14th at 11 am – sale for bullocks, heifers, dry cows and weanlings. Please note that sales will commence at 11 am sharp. Intake from 7.30-9.30 am.

Viewing by appointment from 1010.45 am. Theres is limited access to the ring for buyers only, and you can also avail of our online bidding facility with LSL. Gates close at 9.45 am.

Dry cows ranged from €1.69 up to €2.01 per kilo. Sample prices: Lim X 925 kgs €1780, Lim X 815 kgs €1620, BBX 790 kgs €1590, Lim X 790 kgs €1480, Char X 725 kgs €1460, Lim X 745 kgs €1410, Char 73 5kgs €1390, AAX 770 kgs €1370, PTX 660 kgs €1220, Fr 765 kgs €1140, and Lim X 600 kgs 1100.

Bullocks ranged from an average of €2.23 up to €3.05 per kilo.

Sample prices: Char X 795 kgs €1740, Char X 710 kgs €1640, 3 Char X 683 kgs €1580, Char X 630 kgs €1570, 5 Char X 590 kgs €1570, 4 Lim X 561 kgs €1540, BBX 620 kgs €1520, Char X 570 kgs €1510, Char X 515 kgs €1450, Char X 470 kgs €1450, Lim 565 kgs €1410, Char x 480 kgs €1360, AAX 500 kgs

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344

TEL: (090) 96 88606

(090) 96 88830

(090) 96 87651

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price GUARANTEED Daily collection

€1190, Char X 470 kgs €1230, and Char X 440 kgs €1150.

Heifers ranged from an average of €2.27 per kilo up to €2.89 per kilo. Sample prices: Char X 610 kgs €1550, Char X 610 kgs €1530, BBX 640 kgs €1500, Char X 495 kgs €1400, Char X 475 kgs €1370, Lim X 545 kgs €1300, 2 Lim X 542 kgs €1300, Lim X 480 kgs €1270, AAX 570 kgs €1260, Lim X 435 kgs €1120, Char X 420 kgs €1100, Char X 415 kgs €1050, Lim X 440 kgs €1070, Lim X 380 kgs €1000, 3 Char X 368 kgs €940, Char X 340 kgs €990, and Char X 455 kgs €1350.

Castlerea Mart report

A large entry of stock was presented for sale again last week, and despite the deteriorating weather conditions (as of then), trade remained firm for all categories of stock.

Bullocks in particular saw very lively trade, with the top quality stores making some very fancy prices. The heifer and cow trade remained unchanged while the weanling trade has started on a bright note with demand strong for the quality weanlings.

Bullocks, sample prices: Ch 490kgs €1340, Ch 435kgs €1290, Lm 450kgs €1190, Ch 500kgs €1250, Sim 505kgs €1230, Lm 590kgs €1400, Ch 620kgs €1450, and Ch 765kgs €1690.

Heifers, sample prices: Lmx 385kgs €1080, Lm 410kgs €1040, Lm 465kgs €1330, Ch 460kgs €1100, BBX 675kgs €1440, Lm 630kgs €1350, Ch 460kgs €1070, and AA 685kgs €1390.

Dry cows, sample prices: Ch 845kgs €1600, Chx 810kgs €1560, Lm 680kgs €1370, AAx 815kgs €1400, and Fr 495kgs €350.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1100 to €1900 for a simmental cow and her simmental heifer at foot. Springer cows made from €1090 to €1100 per head. Breeding bulls made from €1070 to €1570 per head.

Calves/runners: young calves made from €160 to €260 per head. Runners made from €250 to €780 per head.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Lm 380kgs €1100, Chx 375kgs €1080, Ch 365kgs €980, Ch 345kgs €1060, Ch 265kgs €670, and Ch 330kgs €840 Weanling heifers, sample prices: Ch 265kgs €700, Lm 280kgs €900, Lm 315kgs €760, Ch 375kgs €890, and Ch 235kgs €620.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday (today) with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am with restrictions in place for both buyers and sellers due to Covid-19.

(Proudly serving farmers for over 61 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday August 14th @ 11 a.m.

General Sale for Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows --------------------Friday August 21st @ 11 a.m.

Autumn Special Sales for Bullocks & Heifers Also Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday August 18th --------------------Tuesday August 18th @ 4 p.m.

Autumn Special Sale of Weanlings Also Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. this Thursday August 13th -----------------------

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

Yard open at 8.30 a.m. All stock must be penned by 10 a.m.

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

Breeding Ewes & Hoggets – Each Saturday

Sale at 11 am. – Gates open at 8 a.m.

Viewing from 10 a.m up to 10.45 a.m -------------------------------Included in the sale this Saturday August 15th

CLEARANCE SALE OF APPROX 70 TOP-QUALITY BREEDING EWES FOR THOMAS VARLEY, EMLAGHMORE HOUSE, DONAMON, CO ROSCOMMON - DUE TO CHANGE OF FARMING ENTERPRISE. Genuine 3 & 4 year-old Mule X, Suffolk X & Galway Ewes ---------------------Saturday August 15th @ 2 p.m.

Pedigree Charollais Sheep Sale (9 Hogget Rams & 33 Ram Lambs) Viewing from 12 noon. to 13.45 p.m.

---------------Saturday August 22nd

Pedigree Texel Ram Sale @ 2 p.m.

Viewing time from 12 Noon to 13.45 p.m.

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

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – Special Sale of Weanlings – Tuesday Sept. 1st @ 4 p.m.

Weanling Show & Sale (2020 Calves) – Tuesday Sept. 8th @ 4 p.m.

Show & Sale of Lambs – Wednesday Sept 2nd @ 11 a.m.

Autumn Special Sale of Bullocks – Friday Sept. 4th @ 11 a.m.

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Live streaming of sales from Ring 1 - see Facebook or website Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

Find us on facebook

15

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Remembering the dark days – before John Hume’s epic work began to pay off Our columnist on June Hume’s legacy; why Simon Cowell has influenced his fitness regime…and in praise of Ronnie O’Sullivan…

John Hume, R.I.P.

It’s Wednesday morning of last week, and –­ if you can remember – ­the rain absolutely pelted down for the early part of the day. Even if you hadn’t intended to watch it, you nearly had to stay indoors and watch the funeral of John Hume, the man voted Ireland’s Greatest. Miraculously, as the ceremony came to a close, the weather changed down here in Crosswell.

The sun came out, and you just got the feeling it was God’s way of acknowledging the importance of the passing of such a wonderful man.

As we read and heard so much about him during the week, it was acknowledged by everyone that John Hume was probably the most influential person in bringing an end to more than 30 years of conflict, savagery and murder in the North of Ireland.

As I listened to all that was being said about him and those times, I began to reflect on the absolute horrific impact of those years – from

Cycle of life: Simon Cowell and me!

I have recently been looking at a fellow whizzing round our local area on his electric bicycle, and even though I have never had much of an interest in cycling – or in truth ever even liked it – I have to admit that to the horror of my family, the thought of getting an electric bike appealed to me quite a bit.

I never liked cycling because my legs were too short for most bikes, and I found it hard to reach the pedals. It was physically very demanding. However, as I watched our local man flying round the place, I thought to myself that the electric bike was the thing for me. Easy enough to

ride/drive, I could let the bike do the work without extending myself. It would give me the chance to see our beautiful countryside, take in the lovely, fresh air, and maybe it might even be good for me both physically and mentally.

However, that all changed on Saturday, when Simon Cowell, left, who was testing out his new £3,900 bike (a little bit more than I was going to spend), had a bad fall and broke his back in several places. This led to a six-hour operation, during which he had a metal rod inserted in his back. As a result, he will be out of action for at least a month, and I have decided to stick to my walks up Lenamarla and continue my fairly regular nine holes at Castlerea Golf Club.

I have definitely abandoned my interest in bicycles, as the worst that could happen on my walks is that I might pull a muscle, and the worst thing that could happen on the course is that a golf ball might come flying and hit me. Neither thing is very likely to happen, but when a fit man like Simon Cowell can come a cropper off an electric bike, I can only wonder what damage I could do – and I do not intend to find out.

1968 to 1998 – on everyone unfortunate enough to live in the North during that time.

Back in the late 1960s and early ‘70s I was living and working in the border town of Dundalk, and until 1975 (after the Miami Showband massacre), rugby clubs from the South regularly travelled over the border to play friendly games against their counterparts in the Northern province. Even now I can remember two very distinct feelings about playing in those matches. As a young, slightly wild young fellow, the first was the hope that I would make the travelling party, because the treatment we got everywhere was absolutely fantastic, with as much food and drink as you could manage. The unwritten rule was that we couldn’t put our hands in our pockets (there wouldn’t be a lot in mine anyway). Even attempting to pay for a drink was nearly taken as an insult!

On the other hand however, there was also the underlying fear that, as Southern Catholics we could be seen as targets, and when we played in Loyalist blackspots like Portadown and parts of Belfast, our hosts used have to take all kinds of precautions to make sure we got safely to their clubhouses. We always travelled by train to Belfast, and would be collected by a number of cars. The instructions were always the same – no matter who

or what stopped the cars, the driver would do all the talking. We were never to say a word, as a Southern accent in the wrong place could cause all kinds of trouble. On other occasions, we were hidden under blankets and told not to move a muscle until we arrived at our destination.

The other thing that was noticeable back then was that every weekend there was a massive influx into Dundalk from nationalist areas as people tried to get away from the widespread violence and terror – the pubs, hotels and nightspots all boosted accordingly. It’s almost impossible to believe now, but in that little area on our island, 3,532 men, women and children were killed during those terrible years, with almost 50,000 seriously injured or maimed.

There is no doubt that the debt owed by us all to John Hume for bringing all that death and destruction to an end is simply enormous, and his legacy will never be forgotten. His funeral was slightly surreal, as all the world statesmen and leaders who would have wanted to be there couldn’t travel because of Covid, but it was still a beautifully moving tribute to one of the greatest peace exponents of our times.

As we say goodbye to the great Derry man, it is with slight irony we say ‘May he rest in peace’.

Explosive ‘Rocket’ is great fun!

I have to admit that since the great days of Alex ‘Hurricane’ Higgins (who famously threatened to have fellow Ulsterman Dennis Taylor shot), and Jimmy ‘Whirlwind’ White (who reached six world snooker championship finals and lost them all), I have never really been that interested in snooker. In fact, since those great days, only Ronnie O’Sullivan has ever come near to bringing the same level of excitement, unpredictability and sheer brilliance back to the snooker table.

This week, by some fluke, I happened to see O’Sullivan’s extraordinary interview with the BBC, where, after winning his game against Ding Junhui, he was asked how, after more than 26 years at the highest level, he was still ranked so highly among the top players in the world. In an amazing and in my opinion hilarious reply, he said the new young players were so bad they would do well only as half-decent amateurs, adding that he would have to lose an arm and a leg to fall outside the top 50.

He also said he hates playing in the Crucible in Sheffield where the world finals take place, and would prefer to be in Crawley – a place he once described as a ‘hellhole’ where all he could smell was urine. The player added that he couldn’t really care whether he wins or loses nowadays, that he plays more for fun. Sometimes during matches, he finds it very hard to focus, and his mind can be all over the place.

It goes without saying that his remarks about how poor some of the players are have gone down like the proverbial lead balloon, and he is getting plenty of stick over them. However, I say ‘Well done Ronnie!’ It’s great to hear someone speak freely, without worrying about who they may upset, especially someone who actually has some real content in what they say.

As it happens, while I write this the Rocket is struggling in his next match, presently losing by 6 frames to 2 against Welshman, Mark Williams. I hope he

makes a comeback, but I suppose it doesn’t really matter, as he doesn’t care anyway!

(Editor: As I read this, the Rocket has just blown Williams away, 13-10).

And finally ... fame at last)

Finally for this week, another major TV interview also took place recently when Ciaran Mullooly came to Creggs last week and spoke to yours truly about the continued closure of our rural pubs.

After nearly 70 years, I had my 20 seconds of fame on RTÉ, and I just want to reassure all my readers, including you, that I haven’t let the fame go to my head, and it hasn’t changed me in any way.

‘Till next week, bye for now

16

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople newsbriefs Council’s call out to the ‘creative sector’ Roscommon County Council, through the Creative Ireland Creative Communities Jobs Stimulus Measure 2020, is seeking proposals from the creative sector in County Roscommon to adapt, reposition or reskill themselves, or to repurpose their assets/offering to ensure they may continue to connect and engage creatively with their local communities.

Under this one-off funding stream, it is intended that the Creative Communities Jobs Stimulus Measure will place creativity at the heart of economic development, provide innovative and collaborative place-making projects in local areas, and provide for the professional development of creative practitioners and creative industries.

Proposals are sought under the following categories: Roscommon Creatives Open Call Programme (closing date 3rd of September), Creative Roscommon Craft Programme (closing date 3rd of September), and Creative Communities Artist Residencies: Dance & Music (closing date 28th of August).

In these ever-changing times we live in, this is Roscommon’s response to this Creative Ireland funding stream in order to support the creative sector to bring culture to our citizens, imaginatively.

Full information and application forms are available at www.roscommoncoco.ie.

School’s in for summer!

Pictured are children with their Summer Smoothies which they made as part of their participation at a Summer Camp in Tisrara NS.

Need to get fit? Start with your feet! – Call The Foot Clinic!

There was a sense of excitement around Tisrara NS, Four Roads recently as pupils made a welcome return to their school to engage in a week-long Summer Camp Programme organised by the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST) and the Department of Education and Skills. Smiling faces and the giggling and laughter of young children brought the school back to life again!

On the 12th of June the then Minister for Education and Skills, Joe McHugh TD, announced that the Government was providing the opportunity for DEIS (Delivering Equality in Schools) primary schools to run a Summer Camp.

“We submitted our application and we were delighted when we received notification that our school had been selected as a centre for Summer Camps this year”, explained school principal, Larry Tiernan. This was the first time that the school had been open to pupils since the former Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD, announced the closure of schools on 12th of March, to support efforts to contain the spread of Covid-19.

Teaching was done remotely during the school closure and the principal was quick to praise pupils for their “fantastic engagement with online learning” during the lockdown. The Summer Camp aimed to support pupils’ social, physical and emotional wellbeing, as well as helping to build relationships with peers, teachers while supporting pupils’ reconnection with school. It provided a variety of rich educational experiences for pupils in a range of environments and fostered a sense of wellbeing, belonging and creativity.

The principal outlined that the Summer Camp had a strong emphasis on Mathematics and on language learning in English, in a playful interactive way.

Carolyn Tunney, Librarian (Roscommon Library branch) paid a visit to the school and spoke to the pupils at length about the Summer Stars programme. Carolyn explained how the Summer Stars is a national reading programme for children taking place in all 330 public libraries and online throughout the country from the 15th of June until the end of August. Carolyn encouraged all children to take part in the programme.

Now that we are out and about again after the Covid lockdown, we are all eager to shed those extra pounds. However, before we start on any exercise programme, it is essential that our feet be in peak condition!

Common problems treated are ingrown toenail conditions, verrucae, corns, callus, athlete’s foot and tendonitis, in addition to leg, lower back, ankle, knee and hip strain and diabetic footcare management.

In addition to a full chiropody service, a biomechanical assessment service is also provided. This assessment analyses walking patterns and in turn orthotic supports may be recommended, together with an exercise programme which can greatly assist with general foot, knee, hip and back pain.

The clinic also stocks a range of competitively priced products to assist with other foot problems that may occur i.e. fallen arches, ankle pain, hammer toes, calloused feet, painful bunions and ingrown toenails. Many of these orthotics can help realign the foot and in turn can reduce ankles, foot, knee, hip and back pain.

Treatment for a range of sports-related injuries including tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and heel spurs are also provided by combining an exercise plan together with corrective orthotic supportive insoles. Adults and children are catered for. For further details or to arrange an appointment call 087-2982214.

Junior pupils proudly displaying their art creations at Tisrara NS Summer Camp.

North West to receive €4.8m for Housing Adaptation grants

Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon and Donegal will receive funding to support home adaptations for older people and those living with a disability in private houses, local TD and Minister of State at the Department of Health, Frank Feighan has said.

Welcoming the funding, Minister Feighan said: “My colleague, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien has announced allocations to local authorities worth a total of €73.75 million in 2020 for Housing Adapation Grants.

“These grants are vital as they enable older people and people with disabilities and mobility issues in the North West to remain living independently in their own homes for longer should they wish and will also facilitate early return from hospital.

“The grants are 80% funded from the exchequer by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, with 20% funding from the relevant local authority.

“I am delighted that a combined total of €4,797,735 has been made available to support vulnerable people with the necessary requirements to live in their homes in counties Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon and Donegal.

“Grants of up to €30,000 are available to assist people with a disability in carrying out necessary works to make a house more suitable for their needs, up to €8,000 to assist older people living in poor housing conditions to have necessary repairs or improvements carried out, and up to €6,000 for mobility aids to address mobility problems for a member of the household”.

––––––––––––– Advertorial –––––––––––––

Pictured are Ciara, David and Elizabeth received their ‘Mathletics’ Gold Certificate for outstanding achievement in Mathematics at the Summer Camp in Tisrara NS.

Graduation Class 2020: Alanna, Hugh, Eoghan and Oisín pictured with their 6th class Graduation hoodies that they received as part of their participation in the Tisrara NS Summer Camp.

17

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

NewsPeople

Guided tour of heritage sites in Keadue

Roscommon Credit Union Whether your little monster needs a new uniform, laptop, school bag or more books We're here for you at Roscommon Credit Union, so speak to us!

TALK TO US TODAY! TO APPLY CALL 090 6626657 EMAIL: INFO@ROSCOMMONCREDITUNION.IE WEB: ROSCOMMONCREDITUNION.IE

Dr. Kieran O’Conor of NUIG

Suck Valley Way Adventure & Fr. Michael O’Flanagan Commemoration

(August 15th-23rd August 2020)

IMAGINE MORE Loans are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. If you do not meet the repayments on your loan, your account will go into arrears. This may affect your credit rating which may limit your ability to access credit in the future.

Roscommon Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

At Roscommon Credit Union, we’re here to help parents with ‘back to school’ costs Back to school costs continue to rise for parents, with over a quarter (27%) of Irish parents getting into debt just to cover the costs of back to school.

The overall spend on school items for primary school students is at €1,123 – up €174 from last year – and secondary schools’ parents average spend is €1,467 – up €68 on last year.

The average debt for parents to cover the costs of ‘back to school’ has increased by €40, from €357 last year to €397 this year. The findings were revealed in a new national survey conducted in June of this year by the Irish League of Credit Unions on back to school costs.

Bernie Moran, CEO of Roscommon Credit Union Ltd., said: “We are aware that back to school costs can make this time of year a financial struggle for parents. We want to reassure parents that we are here to help anyone who needs help – be it with budgeting for the back to school spend, or taking out a flexible, low-cost credit union loan to help cover the costs.

“Our message to our members would be to come and talk to us here at Roscommon Credit Union. If, for example, a parent opted to take an educational loan to cover back to school costs, the

To celebrate Heritage Week, Keadue Community, in cooperation with the Creative Ireland Programme, has organised a guided tour of local Heritage sites.

The tour, to be conducted by Dr. Kieran O’Conor of NUIG, is set to take place on Wednesday, August 19th at 6.30 pm. Assemble at Knockranny Wood car park.

One of the most famous areas among the sites that the tour will visit is Kilronan Abbey, which contains within its walls the remains of the famous poet, harper and composer Turlough O’Carolan. The year 2020 is significant because it marks the 350th anniversary of his birth. A ceremony will take place in the Abbey to mark the occasion.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, social distancing is to be observed at all times. For enquiries, email info@keadue.net.

APR rate would be 6.19%*. Our loan is typically approved within 24-48 hours** and there are no hidden transaction fees or charges. As always, we are happy to work with parents to structure repayments in a way that suits their individual circumstances. We are more than happy to assist anyone who might need a little extra financial assistance at back to school time.

“We endeavour to meet parents’ financial needs and would encourage our members to avoid using moneylenders or high interest rate credit cards to cover the costs of back to school” said Bernie. * For a €2,000 educational variable interest rate loan, spread over a year with 52 weekly repayments of €39.65, an interest rate of 6%, and a representative APR of 6.19%, the total amount payable by the member is €2,061.53. Information correct as at 12/08/2020. Loans are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. **Once your loan application and supporting documents are submitted and credit check complete, you can expect to hear back from our loans team within 24-48 hours!

Roscommon Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

The Suck Valley Adventures/Fr O’Flanagan Commemoration is a series of events over two weekends in August which will place a spotlight on the uniqueness of the Suck Valley region.

Born in 1876 in Cloonfower, Castlerea, Fr. Michael O’Flanagan was a figure of regional and national importance.

He was a controversial figure who was revolutionary in terms of his innovative ideas and decisive actions. He was a man of the people, a pursuer of social justice.

As parish priest in Cliffony, Co. Sligo, he instigated a turf war in order to secure turbary rights for his parishioners and won back turfcutting rights that had been denied by the Congested Districts Boards. He supported striking dockers in Sligo.

In political terms, he was responsible for Plunkett’s victory at the 1917 North Roscommon ‘Election of the Snows’, a pivotal moment in Irish po-

Fr. Michael O’Flanagan

litical history, which levered O’Flanagan’s position in Sinn Fein. Fr. O’Flanagan subsequently became vice-president along with Arthur Griffith, and

in the 1930’s he eventually took over the leadership of Sinn Féin.

His contribution to the social, economic, academic and political fabric of Ireland was huge.

Programme of events (All events are now fully booked)

Friday, 14th August 2020 Official opening by Kieran Mulvey on the Fr. O’Flanagan bridge, Castlerea, at the site of the Fr. O’ Flanagan plaque (followed by a speech at Clonalis House).

Day 1: Saturday, 15th August 2020 The Suck Valley Way/Fr. O’Flanagan canoe/ kayak tour, departing from Castlerea at 10 am and travelling to Ballymoe.

Day 2: Sunday, 16th August 2020 The Suck Valley Way/Fr. 0’Flanagan canoe/ kayak tour, at 11 am from Ballymoe to Glinsk (Stage 1 route), and Glinsk-Donamon (Stage 2 route). Guided tour by experienced canoeists.

Day 3: Saturday, 22nd August 2020 Fr. O’Flanagan appreciation afternoon/evening: Fr. O’Flanagan Memorial Mass at Donamon Chapel at 7 pm. At 8 pm, a ‘The life and times of Fr. Michael O ‘Flanagan’ talk/lecture by guest speakers Mr. Aidan Cooke (author) and Mr. Eamon O’Cuiv (TD), followed by informal chat.

Day 4: Sunday, 23rd August 2020 The Suck Valley Way/Fr. O’Flanagan cycle: guided cycle from Cloonfad to Athleague at 10 am. The Suck Valley Way/Fr. O’Flanagan canoe/kayak tour: guided tour by experienced canoeists from Donamon to Athleague at 1 pm.

18

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

PropertyPeople PSRA Licence: 001350

l

PROPERTY SALES

l

LETTINGS l VALUATIONS

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6663700. Mob. (086) 8985013 • www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie NEW TO MARKET

NEW TO MARKET

c. 32.70 Acres In 3 Lots At

Four Bedroom Residence at

Araghty & Keenagh (Clanrickard) Athleague, County Roscommon • Prime parcel of good quality lands located close to Athleague Village, on the Ballygar/Galway road adjacent the Four Roads junction.

• Set out in three lots, these lands hold huge potential due location and can be sold as one lot or in seperate lots.

• Lot 1: c. 17.50 Acres at Araghty fronting onto two roads • Lot 2: c. 10.30 Acres at Keenagh (Clanrickard) fronting onto Four Roads road • Lot 3: c. 4.90 Acres at Athleague fronting onto main Galway road • Lot 4: Entire property c. 32.70 Acres The Auctioneer invites enquires and offers for immediate sale – Contact the office on 090-6663700 for further details

Corderryhugh, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon, F42 D576 • Attractive four bedroom bungalow residence in excellent condition throughout • Located close to the villages of Castlecoote, Creggs and Athleague • Boasting spacious living accommodation • Standing on an elevated site (c. 0.88 acres) and detached garage to rear • Viewing comes highly recommended To arrange a viewing, contact the office on 090-6663700 • Viewings at evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays also accommodated

NEW TO MARKET

FOR SALE

Three Bedroom Cottage at

Four Bedroom Residence at

Kilmore Cottage, Carrowphadeen, Lecarrow, County Roscommon F42 CH99

• Charming three bedroom cottage with outbuildings • Standing on a large corner site, c. 0.54 Acres • Located in much sought after area, Kilmore Bay on the River Shannon • Situated on a country road with views of the water, this property is located c. 3 miles from Lecarrow Village and convenient to the towns of Athlone and Roscommon To arrange a viewing, contact the office on 090-6663700 • Viewings at evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays also accommodated

“Alberta”, Knockroe, Castlerea, County Roscommon F42 Y153 • Attractive four bedroom bungalow residence • Located in much sought after area of Castlerea Town • Within walking distance of all amenities • The residence is in excellent condition • Viewing comes highly recommended To arrange a viewing, contact the office on 090-6663700 • Viewings at evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays also accommodated

FOR SALE

PUBLIC AUCTION

Three Storey Property at

c. 17.25 Acres at

Killian Corn Mill, Newbridge, County Galway (adjacent to H53 FX02)

• Unique property comprising former three storey Corn Mill with remains of waterwheel and internal machinery • Altogether standing on c. 6.75 acres • Commanding extensive road frontage and holding huge potential for sites (subject to planning) • Located adjacent Newbridge Village, just off the N63 Galway Road, this property fronts onto the Woodbrook/Killian River For further details and to arrange a viewing contact the office on 090-6663700

Newtown, Ballinamore Bridge, County Galway • Prime Parcel of Lands c.17.25 Acres • Extensive Road Frontage in Renowned Farming District • Potential for Sites (Subject to P/P)

Public Auction – Friday 28th August @ 4pm Venue: On The Lands For further details contact the office on 090-6663700 Legal: Staunton Caulfield Solicitors, Athleague Tel: 090-6663814

FINAL OFFERS – FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST

FINAL OFFERS – FRIDAY 28TH AUGUST

Five Bedroom Residence at

4 Bedroom Residence on c.1.75 Acres at

Feamore, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon N37 PE00

• Attractive five bedroom detached country residence in excellent condition standing on large mature private grounds • Located in much sought after residential area, c.

5 miles from the Dublin to Galway Motorway and Athlone Town • Boasting spacious living accommodation throughout • With commanding views of surrounding countryside • Viewing comes highly recommended and is strictly by appointment only.

FINAL OFFERS - By 2pm on Friday 21st August To arrange a viewing, contact the office on 090-6663700 • Viewings at evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays also accommodated

“St. Trea’s”, Clooncun West, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway F45 ET86 • Luxury bedroom American Style Residence • Standing on c.1.75 Acres c.1 Mile from Glenamaddy • Spacious Living Accommodation Throughout • Detached Garage to Rear • Commanding Views of Surrounding Countryside

FINAL OFFERS - By 12pm on Friday 28th August To arrange a viewing, contact the office on 090-6663700 • Viewings at evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays also accommodated

19

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

PropertyPeople PROPERTY PARTNERS NEW TO THE MARKET

PSRA Licence No: 003201

New to the Market: -

TALL TREES, CREGGS CO. ROSCOMMON F42 X578

This character property which stands on c.

1 acre of elevated grounds is accessed via a tree lined avenue with cut stone entrance piers and paddock to side.

This property is presented for sale in immaculate condition and comprises entrance porch, reception hallway, kitchen/ dining room, utility with w.c. off, living room and large sitting room. Upstairs consists of 3 large bedrooms and family bathroom.

Price Region: €139,500.

Ber Rating: D2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New to the Market: CHARMING 3 BEDROOM BUNGALOW

CREEVY, ROSCOMMON F42 CY83 Charming 3 bedroom bungalow located within walking distance to Roscommon Town Centre in a much sought after residential area. Tastefully decorated with modern fit out, this residence comprises entrance porch, reception hallway, open plan kitchen/dining/ living area, sitting room, 3 bedrooms (one en-suite) and family bathroom. Outside landscaped grounds with ample parking.

Price Region: €175,000.

EARLEY

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

PRIME NEW BUILD AT CASTLEMANOR

A MOST ATTRACTIVE 2 B/R SEMI DETACHED RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 900 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

A SUBSTANTIAL NEW BUILD “A” RATED 5 B/R TWO STOREY RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 2,002 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

Price Guide: €100,000.

All offers after €250,000 to sell.

2 ANVIL COURT, CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 HE04.

A spacious 2 B/R semi-detached residence located in a private horse shoe shaped development in the center of Roscommon town and beside all local amenities. This said residence would make an ideal private residence and also possesses excellent rental potential due to location.

The auctioneer now invite immediate viewing and all offers to sell. BER: F.

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

MEADOW/SILAGE TO LET

By the bale on lands. Enquiry invited.

38 CASTLEMANOR, RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN

A superior quality new build 5 B/R detached two storey residence located in the established Castlemanor development on the Racecourse Road. The house is constructed to the highest quality of finish with a stylish designed home offering spacious well proportioned accommodation for modern family life. High energy efficiency and a bright relaxed atmosphere are a priority for this superior home of unmistakable quality and style.

The auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and all offers after €250,000 to sell. BER: A2.

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Fax: (090) 6625405 Advertorial

When it comes to selling property, there’s no substitute for experience!

Ber Rating: F

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

New to the Market: -

Corboley, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon F42 TK64

Impressive four bedroom property situated within walking distance to Knockcroghery Village and convenient to the County Towns of Roscommon and Athlone.

Superb house on an elevated site overlooking the village, this residence comprises entrance hallway, sitting room, open plan kitchen with arch to dining area, large utility, 4 large bedrooms, 3 with built in wardrobes, (master ensuite) and family bathroom. The attic, which is suitable for conversion is partly floored and has 2 Velux windows.

PRICE REGION: €235,000 BER: C1 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New to the Market: -

BALLYMACFARRANE, DONAMON CO. ROSCOMMON, F42 XA47 Charming two storey residence set in a quiet countryside setting adjacent to the famed Donamon Castle on the River Suck which boasts excellent fishing and boating.

Roscommon Town is 10 minutes’ drive and 1hr and 40mins to Dublin city centre.

The residence stands on c. 1.65 acres with Paddock to side and consists of entrance porch, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, 2 large bedrooms and family bathroom. There is a large fully serviced garage to the side together with oil fired central heating and private well.

PRICE REGION: €125,000.

REF: D01562

Church Street, Roscommon town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

ipav

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

Newtown, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon

Old residence and c. 24.5 at Newtown, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon

Oates Auctioneers are offering c. 24.5 acres with old residence at Newtown, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon. This is a high profile location, located just outside Roscommon town, on the Athlone Road with the benefit of old dwelling house standing thereon.

This exceptional parcel of lands extends to c. 24.5 acres in total on the side of the main road overlooking Mote Park woodland in what is without doubt one of the best residential sites to come on the market in recent years. The majority of the lands are of excellent quality with some marginal lands included. Price Region: €200,000.

Please contact Oates Auctioneers for further details, Church Street, Roscommon town, telephone: 090 6627878. E-mail info@oates.ie; Website: www.oates. ie.

This week, Property Partners Earley are seeking houses in all areas of Roscommon for cash clients and disappointed underbidders. There is particular interest in houses in the general Castle Street area of Roscommon.

Property Partners have been selling property for generations, and offer a nationwide network of offices offering exceptional local knowledge. With an extensive computerised database of active buyers, Property Partners Earley are best placed to advise on all your property matters.

They offer a professional marketing plan designed to deliver their goal of selling your home for the highest price possible.

We have now launched our 360 degree virtual tour service at no extra cost and have sold a number of properties to overseas clients who are unable to travel due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Your property will be listed on all major websites to include www.propertypartners.ie, www.daft. ie and www.myhome.ie.

With over 3,000 unique hits on the Property Part-

ners website each day alone, you property will be marketed to the forefront.

Local knowledge, nationwide.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) or David Diffley (MIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email jearley@ propertypartners.ie.

Looking to sell?

We have buyers!

Our services include: • Sales – Sell your home!

• Lettings & Rentals • Property Management – We will manage all aspects of your rental property • Valuations – FREE pre-sale valuation No Sale – No Charge Web: www.kleavyauctioneer.com Tel. 071 96 34737

20

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

PropertyPeople CO. ROSCOMMON

NEW TO THE MARKET

KILLADANGAN, BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON.

Call 090 662 7200

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON Find out more at mysherryfitz.ie

CO. ROSCOMMON RAHARA, CO. ROSCOMMON

NEW TO THE MARKET

• Beautifully presented 4 bed home located in a peaceful countryside area.

• Surrounded by large manicured lawns on C0.91 acres boasting crab apples, cherry and apple trees to name a few.

• Accommodation porch, kitchen, living room, dining room, utility, 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms.

• Ideally located only 5 minutes from Ballaghaderreen Town.

• Fiber optic broadband. OFCH dual heating.

CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200; EMAIL : PBURKE@SFPBURKE.IE

CO. GALWAY

NEW TO THE MARKET

KEELOGUES, GLENAMADDY, CO GALWAY.

• 3 bed detached country residence on C 0.52 acre with detached garage and fuel store to the rear.

• Conveniently located only 12 mins from Roscommon, 15 mins from Athlone, beside Rahara National school.

• The property covers C.1563 sq. ft. which is in need of renovation.

• Accommodation entrance hall, living room, sitting room, kitchen & dining room/conservatory, 3 bedrooms, family bathroom • Excellent potential. BER G

• Traditional Irish bungalow on a large site.

• Conveniently located 9 minutes from Glenamaddy.

• This property consists of kitchen, lounge/diner, sitting room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom and garage.

• Deceivingly large internally (C 117.2 sq.m) BER E2

CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200; EMAIL : PBURKE@SFPBURKE.IE

CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200; EMAIL : PBURKE@SFPBURKE.IE

Knockhall, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

David Diffley’s sale of the week – at Rooskey This week, David Diffley (MIPAV, TVR) of Property Partners Earley is pleased to disclose that he has closed the sale of a quality bungalow residence at Knockhall, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon for a “very satisfactory” price.

David describes the property as being “a most attractive three-bedroomed residence of approximately 1,810 square feet”.

David further commented: “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality

properties attracting strong interest in all areas.

Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions, and offer a free appraisal service”.

For further details, or to arrange a free consultation, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 662 6579, email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

It’s not just about property. It’s about people.

PSRA No. 001316

A unique family home at Killadangan, Ballaghaderreen A superb opportunity is available to acquire a bright, spacious, four-bedroomed family residence, sitting on circa 0.91 acres of beautifully manicured gardens at Killadangan, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

This is a truly unique property, which comprises of a spacious, detached, four-bedroomed house, nesting in a picturesque countryside setting, with a large general purpose shed to the rear and a garage. Located in a much sought after area, this family residence comes to the market with Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke, and is approximately five minutes from Ballaghaderreen town.

No expense has been spared in making this a home fit to modern standards. The décor is of a superior standard internally. The tiled, bright front

Killadangan, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

entrance hall gives access to a bright and welcoming sitting room (with feature open fireplace), giving access to the kitchen and dining room, with utility room off. The impressive property also boasts four spacious double bedrooms and two newly renovated bathrooms.

Overall, the excellent presentation of this property internally and externally, coupled with its central location less than 30 minutes from Ireland West International Airport (Knock), makes it a truly magnificent purchase option.

This property must be viewed in order to fully appreciate all it has to offer.

For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact David at Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke, Goff Street, Roscommon, on 090 662 7200 or email pburke@sfpburke.ie.

23, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon

Final offers after €80,000 invited for Stonecourt apartment This week, David Diffley (MIPAV) of Property Partners Earley is inviting final offers after €80,000 for a quality, twobedroomed duplex apartment at 23, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon.

David commented on the property, saying: “Property Partners Earley are pleased to invite final offers after €80,000

for a primely-located duplex apartment in the popular Stonecourt complex at the heart of Roscommon town”.

The property boasts quality, spacious living accommodation throughout, and comes with the benefit of free parking facilities at the front and rear of the complex. This is a quality investment property and the auc-

tioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers after €80,000 to sell. E1.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon on 090 662 6579 or email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie.

21

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS GROUP MEETINGS Hannon’s Hotel, Athlone Road, Roscommon town Tuesdays, 9.00pm Thursdays, 1.00pm Saturdays, 8.30pm Sundays, 12 noon

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

ACCOUNTS McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • 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

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved

Cloonchambers, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • 20 years experience

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

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

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Department of Health Approved

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

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

CHIROPODIST

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

COUNSELLING

DRIVING LESSONS

FARMING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Paul McStay

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 COUNSELLING

Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis.

Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you?

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

Stephen Casey

Construction Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

l

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

• 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

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

Please call Glynis on

CONSTRUCTION

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

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

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

Learn to drive with ....

Roscommon Driving School Telephone:

090 66 61102 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 3-piece-suite in excellent condition. As good as new. Colour: Beige.

Tel. 087 0568444. < FOR SALE: 15 ft. Fibreglass Boat with trailer and lights. New bilge pump fitted. With oars. €950.00 ono.

Tel. 087 6796731.

• Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.

• Small stock parts fitted on site (if necessary) Dept. of Agriculture regulations.

From 2020 all sprayes are required to be tested every 3 years Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EL000083

< ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715. < FOR SALE: Round bales of hay – great quality. Saved without rain.

Idea for sheep. Tel. 087 7617300.

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs.

Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

l l

l

Tel: 087 2172281

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

087 2346364

GARDENING GATELY GARDENING

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.

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193 WALTER BEGLEY

Gardening, Maintenance & Painting Roscommon Town • Indoor & Outdoor Painting • Winter Garden Clean-Up • Power Washing Driveways - Paths • Prepare Lawns for Spring • Hedge Trimming • Planting • Grass Cutting • General Maintenance

Contact Walter on 087 9519873 < GARDENING SERVICE: Overgrown shrubs and hedges, cut back and mulched. Contact 086 2437376

22

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

Classifieds 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

l

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

€4,200

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

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank.

We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property.

If not no fees are payable.

Tel: 086 8212732

< TO LET: 3-bed apartment. Fully furnished. Private parking.

Quiet area in Roscommon town. Tel. 086 8538519.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters

Waldron Lawnmowers

Tel. 086 7866774 GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc.

Chainsaw work also available

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

Phone John on

087 2860428 Garden & Home Maintenance Services Give it professional care!

Services offered: – Powerwashing – Lawn Mowing – Outdoor Cleanup – and much more ...

Covering Castlerea, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Tulsk, Castleplunkett and Ballinlough areas

Contact: David on 085 252 0355 for more information and a free quote.

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

086 4679798 PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

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

HOLISTIC JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy • Dry needling • Thai Massage Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

087 9201818

Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

USEFUL SERVICES

Concrete and Paving Work carried out Walls built, etc.

Tel. 086 3293010

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ...

WE DO ANYTHING From fitting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL !

094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

USEFUL SERVICES

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

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815 < 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. < HANDYMAN SERVICES: Do you need odd jobs doing around your home/yard?

Don’t have time to do them yourself? Don’t want to contact a specialised tradesman to carry out these tasks? l Gardening l Stonework l Clean up/Tidying l Concrete repairs l Fence repairs l Pointing/Repointing l Cutting/Chopping firewood.

Honest Service Provided at a Reasonable Rate.

Phone: 087 2176205

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

Storage facility available in Ballyfarnon (Close to Boyle and Carrick on Shannon areas).

Ideal for storing belongings for personal or business reasons. Short or long term contracts.

Keen rates. Available from late September 2020.

Tel. 087 6591787.

USEFUL SERVICES

POWER WASHING SERVICES Covering all Roscomon and Leitrim areas 10% DISCOUNT for Senior Citizens when they mention the ‘Roscommon People’ newspaper Areas cleaned include: • All external walls • Driveways • Paths • Patios • Houses, inc. gutters Soft washing available for rendered and painted walls and houses Reliable and professional service with a smile

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

086 2437376

CONNAUGHT AREA

Call on 091 734122 or 085 1240639 evoroofingandguttering.com

• All types of roof repairs • Gutter cleaning from €49 • PVC fitted • Roof moss removal • Chimney repairs • Power washing • Ridge Piping • Lead valley repair • New tiles • Quality work, guaranteed

No job too big or too small

PEAT BEDDING

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas)

TUITION

ROSCOMMON

MATHS GRINDS

Junior and Leaving Certificate Higher Level Experienced Higher Level Teacher Outstanding results record Excellent notes provided Application Forms now available Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine Beirne 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

Tel. 089 2386442

Evo Roofing & Guttering Experts

PLANNINGS

< 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

< GOOD QUALITY 10’x6’ loads of turf. Can be delivered. Also bags of turf. Tel. 086 3776948.

SITUATIONS WANTED < WOMAN AVAILBLE to mind child or children in her own home. Castlerea area.

Has own transport. Tel. 087 0629353.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL 5 Ascail Na Bhfea, Ballinlough, Co Roscommon.

We, Fiona Raftery and Josh Murray, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to demolish existing rear extension to Dwellinghouse and replace with new extension with renovations to same and demolish existing shed on site all as per plans lodged together with all ancillary site works and services at the above address.

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 at Roscommon County Council, Golf Links Road, Roscommon during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Author-ity on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Planning Authority of the applica-tion 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: Colette Jordan & Associates, Architectural Engineering & Energy, 17 Ashford Court, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Mobile: 086 8366944, Email: hello@colettejordan.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Vincent Collins, am applying for permission for retention of 87.5 sq.m. extension to main agriculture shed and for retention of 95 sq.m. agriculture equipment shed in existing farmyard.

Also, permission is sought for construction of 31.2 sq.m dungstead and construction of 215 sq.m extension to main shed to include a slatted area and all associated site works at Ballymorre Td., Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and 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: Brandon O’Brien Ltd. (Agent), Consulting Engineers.

Tel. 090 6625005

23

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying on behalf of Roscommon Gaels G.A.A. Club for planning permission comprising development of Astro Turf area and car parking provision, including erection of Lighting Columns, for provision of Lighting Columns to Practise Pitch, and for the construction of new vehicular entrance at club grounds , Lisnamult, Roscommon

Signed: Theresa Hession , Chairperson 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 €20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions , or may refuse to grant permission.

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours.

This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. B.F. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours.

This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. B.F. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours.

This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer.

PRAY TO SAINT EXPEDITE Our dear martyr and protector, Saint Expedite, You who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed.

I beg you to intercede before the Holy Trinity, that by your grace my request will be granted.(Clearly express what you want, and ask him to find a way to get it to you.) May I receive your blessings and favors.

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. Thanks to St. Michael the Archangel also. Publication promised.

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

APPOINTMENTS

Is now inviting applications for the position of

FINANCE MANAGER

Roscommon Credit Union Limited is a growing community based credit union with €39m in Assets and serving 10,300 members across our three branches. In anticipation of further growth and development, Roscommon Credit Union Limited is looking to fill this position, based in our Roscommon Office. Reporting to the CEO, the Finance Manager will be a key member of the Management Team and will be responsible for the financial and ICT management of the Credit Union.

We are seeking a forward thinking, self-motivated individual to join our team and take on this challenging role.

Key areas of responsibility will be: Finance and Investments • All books of account are maintained in a timely and accurate fashion.

• To prepare timely and comprehensive financial reports for the Board’s monthly meetings.

• Ensure fully documented financial control procedures are maintained.

• All regulatory returns are filed within the appropriate timeframes • Assist the Investment Committee in the management of the Investment Portfolio.

• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements regarding investments.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of the departmental accounting systems, policies and procedures.

• Liaise with external stakeholders.

Information Technology • Align ICT strategy with the Credit Union’s business goals • Liaise with the computer system suppliers in relation to system requirements and issues.

Management Team • Work as part of the management team to develop the credit union further.

• Participate in credit union policy review process, where appropriate.

• Contribute to the preparation of the annual business plan.

The successful candidate will have a recognised professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CPA, CGMA), current membership of a professional accounting body in Ireland or more relevant post-qualification experience in practice or industry. They should also have extensive experience preparing financial/management accounts and knowledge and experience of investments.

The position will require a high level of computer literacy along with excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to work on own initiative to deliver agreed targets within set timeframes and excellent analytical and data interrogation abilities.

Although not essential, experience in the financial services industry would be an advantage as would a relevant third level degree. A clear understanding of the ethos and operating principles of credit unions is desirable.

Remuneration will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and relevant experience.

Please forward Cover Letter and CV in confidence with reference FM2020, by email, to ceo@roscommoncu.ie to arrive on or before 20th August 2020.

Please contact info@roscommoncu.ie for a copy of our Recruitment Privacy Notice.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

Sean Doyle & Sons ROSCOMMON TOWN We are currently looking for

FACTORY WORKERS Contact 090 - 6626753

PART-TIME PRACTICE NURSE required for

Abbey Street Medical Centre • 3 days per week • Flexible days • Practice experience desirable but not essential Contact: Practice Manager, Abbey Street Medical Centre, Roscommon on 087 9269218

Recruitment Day HEALTHCARE ASSISTANTS and SUPERVISORS Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon Tuesday 18th August, 11am to 3pm The Spool Factory, Boyle Thursday 20th August, 11am to 3pm

Roscommon Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

The local paper!

If you are a proactive, professionally presented and of a caring nature and wish to be part of a growing organisation, this could be your next long-term role.

Both full-time and part-time carers roles ae available in all areas of County Roscommon, East Galway, Longford, Leitrim and Westmeath Competitive rates of pay and flexible working hours to suit you!

Looking foward to welcoming new recruits to our team!

You can contact us by email at: info@westcarehomecare.ie or by ‘phone on 071 9146768 www.westcarehomecare.ie

24

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES RAFTERY (née Shaughnessy) Bridie

MAHON Joe

LYONS John

(1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Bridie Raftery, late of Bracklin, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon, whose first anniversary occurs on 19th August.

Aughnagrange, Boyle Co. Roscommon, who died 19th July 2020, R.I.P.

Foxboro, Ballinlough, Co Roscommon.

Who died on the 10th of July 2020.

A daily thought, a silent tear a constant wish that you were here.

An empty place no one will fill we miss you Bridie and always will.

You were always there with a helping hand to listen, advise and understand.

Your pleasures were so very small and your wants were all so few, if your family and friends were happy then Bridie, so were you.

Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by her husband Michael (Buddy), sons Donal and Adrian, daughter Martina, sister Maura, brother Paddy, grandchildren Rían, Olwen, Darragh and Robyn, family, neighbours and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet, Creggs, Co. Roscommon, Sunday 30th August at 11:30am

MANNION, (née Byrne) Josephine 4 Roselawn Drive, Ballygar, Co. Galway (Died July 7th 2020)

We the family of the late Josephine, (Josie) Mannion would like to thank all who supported and sympathised with us on our recent sudden bereavement. A special thank you to our extended family, our wonderful neighbours and friends who were so helpful at this most difficult time. We’re extremely grateful to all who brought food and refreshments to our residence. Thanks also to all who posted condolences on R.I.P.ie, those who sent mass/sympathy cards, all who telephoned, texted and all who messaged us on social media. Many thanks to everyone for your funeral home, roadside and cemetery presence. Sincere thanks to Dr Martin Daly, Dr Myriam Mangan, their staff and the doctors & nurses in hospital for their long-term care and attention.

We are also grateful to Fr Michael Breslin and the grave-diggers.

Finally a special thanks to David Moran, (Funeral Undertaker) for his professionalism and sensitivity to us at all times.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

The Month’s Mind Mass will be on Saturday August 15th at 7.30pm in St. Mary’s Church Ballygar.

We never fail to think of you.

We never cease to care.

We only wish we could go home And find you waiting there.

The family wish to thank all who sympathised with us on our recent bereavement. Thanks to all those who sent Mass cards, perpetual enrolments, sympathy cards, online condolences, phonecalls, text messages and flowers.

A special thank you to the medical staff and all who cared for Joe – the Roscommon Palliative Care Team, the Irish Cancer Society, the Oncology unit of Sligo University Hospital and the Public Health Care Team.

Thanks to Canon Gerry Hanley who visited Joe during his illness and also for the beautiful celebration of his funeral Mass.

We were very moved by all those who lined the roads from the funeral home to the church and to those who stood outside the church due to the current Covid restrictions.

Our thanks to Emmet Cooney of Mahon Funeral Directors and Proinsias McGee for their sympathetic and professional handling of Joe’s funeral. Thanks to Micheál Harrington for the music at Joe’s Mass and to Eamon Conroy and the Conroy family for looking after the grave.

It is impossible to thank everyone individually for their kindness but please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Month’s Mind Mass for Joe will be on the 22nd of August at 10am in St. Joseph’s Church, Boyle.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.

KELLY Martin

KELLY Martin

Mullymux, Roscommon.

14th August, 2018 (2nd Anniversary)

Mullymux, Roscommon.

(2nd Anniversary)

The family of the late John Lyons wish to express our heartfelt gratitude for the kindness, support and sympathy shown to us on our recent sad loss.

Thanks to our extended families, neighbours and friends who helped and supported us prior to and after the funeral in so many different ways, we really appreciated it.

We also wish to sincerely thank all of those who provided instant support on the Friday evening (10th of July) to our sudden call of need including, Father Joe, Doctor Noone, the Guards and the Paramedics. Your compassion, empathy and kindness shown to us in our time of need was very much appreciated.

Thank you to the amazing carers who called to see John every day, especially Geraldine Igoe, John really enjoyed your visits and company each and every day.

Thank you to John’s wonderful neighbours for the many years of warm friendship and kindness shown to John. Your support during these very difficult times has been greatly appreciated by the whole Lyons family.

We would also like to thank anyone who sent Mass cards, phoned, messaged, emailed, sent flowers and food to the family and we also thank all who attended the funeral.

Thank you to Paul Gaynor, Undertaker, we really appreciated your professionalism and empathy shown towards the family. We also thank you for giving us the opportunity to share John’s final goodbye with family and friends who were not able to be with us physically but who were able to watch near and far.

Thank you to the grave diggers who prepared John’s final resting place.

A special mention to Father Feeney, who was with us in John’s final days, this provided great comfort to John’s family. We all know how highly he thought of you, along with the Lyons family, so thank you Fr Feeney.

As it would not be possible to thank everyone individually, we hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as an expression of our deepest gratitude to you all.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Month’s Mind Mass for John will be celebrated in Ballinlough Church on Sunday, the 16th of August 2020 at 11 am.

May John Rest in Peace.

Just a prayer from the family who loved you, Just a memory fond and true, In our hearts you will live forever, Because we thought the world of you.

Sadly missed and deservedly remembered by all his family and friends.

In loving memory of a dear Father, Father-in-law and Grandad Martin who passed away on 14th August, 2018.

Rest In Peace.

A silent thought A quiet prayer, For a special person In God’s care..

FALLON Pat and Kathleen

Always in our thoughts and prayers Kevin and Rosie, Sean, Conor and Aiden. x Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Four Mile House on Sunday, 23rd August at 11am.

In loving memory of our dear parents, whose anniversaries occur at this time Today recalls the memories Of two loved ones gone to rest.

And those who think of them today Are those who loved them best.

The flowers we lay upon their grave May wither and decay But the love for them who lie beneath Will never fade away.

Lovingly remembered and always missed by your family.

FLYNN Brian and Ann Donamon (17th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Brian and Ann who passed away on 17th August 2003 Time and years slip gently by, But love and memories never die.

In our hearts ye will always stay, Loved and remembered everyday.

Sadly missed by your loving family.

KELLY (Nee Conboy) Peggy Late of Tonlagee, Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

Deep in our hearts your memory is kept to love, to cherish and never forget

Lovingly remembered by your husband Michael ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ God saw you getting tired, A cure was not to be He put his arm around you and whispered “Come to Me” With tearful eyes we let you go, And watched you fade away Although our hearts were broken We could not make you stay A golden heart stopped beating Hard working hands at rest God knows why He took you He only takes the best

Lovingly remembered by your daughters, Deirdre, Sandra, Michelle and Valerie, sons, Marty and Michael, grandchildren, extended family and friends ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Time goes by and life goes on But from our thoughts you are never gone.

Lovingly remembered by your brother Seamus Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House Church, Roscommon on Friday 14th August at 8pm.

25

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KILDUFF Tom 5 Circular Road, Roscommon 12th August 1998 (22nd Anniversary)

BEATTIE Sile Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

KEEGAN John and Mary Rathmore, Fourmilehouse, Roscommon

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS • Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

Sadly missed along life’s way Quietly remembered every day...

No longer in our life to share, But in our hearts, you are always there.

Remembered with love by Thomas, Eddie, Hugh, Anne and family.

McGRATH Joe Celtic Avenue, Roscommon (12th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a loving partner, daughter and sister, Sile, who passed away on 17th February, 2020, (Age 33); R.I.P. God saw you were getting tired, When a cure was not to be, He closed his arms around you And whispered, “come to me” In tears we watched you sinking, We watched you fade away, And though our hearts were breaking, We knew you could not stay, A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest, It broke our hearts to see you go, God only takes the best.

Missed every minute of every day by your partner Tom, mother Mary, sister Sinéad, brothers Cathal, Fergal and Padraig. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BEATTIE Frank

(4th Anniversary) (27th Anniversary) In loving memory of our parents John who passed away on 20th of June 1993 (27th Anniversary) and Mary who passed away on 17th of August 2016 (4th Anniversary).

A tribute of love to parents so dear, So close to our hearts each day of the year, We will always have memories to cherish and hold, Of wonderful parents more precious than gold.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered by their daughters Marian, Evelyn and Caroline, sons John, Michael, Peter, Padraic and David and extended family.

Masses offered.

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

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

Mobile: 087 2365453 Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com

HAMILL Tom, Patricia, Thomas Cloonslanor, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Tom Hamill whose anniversary occurs on 22nd of August 2016; his wife Patricia “Patsy” who died on 8th November 2005; their son Thomas “Tom” who died on 25th January 2017 and their daughter Irene who died on 8th July 2020

In loving memory of Joe who died on 10th August 2008 May he Rest in Peace As each day dawns We think of you, As each night falls We pray for you.

And throughout our lives No matter where, In our hearts You are always there.

Sadly missed by your wife Kathleen, daughters Mary and Martina, son-in-law James and grandchildren Clíona, Alanna and Ella.

Please light a candle in his loving memory.

In loving memory of my dear husband, father and grandfather, Frank, who passed away on 12th August, 2019, (Age 83); R.I.P. Most humble Saint Martin, whose burning charity embraces all, but especially those who are sick, afflicted or in need, We turn to thee for help in our present difficulties and we implore thee to obtain for us from God, health of soul and body, And in particular the favour we now ask ...

A smile for all, a heart of gold The very best this world could hold Never selfish, always kind These are the lovely memories you left behind.

Always remembered by your loving daughter Kathleen, son-in-law John and grandsons David and John.

R.I.P.

May we, by imitating thy charity and humility, find quiet and contentment all our days, and cheerful submission to God’s Holy Will In all the trials and difficulties of life.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

From your wife Mary, sons Cathal, Fergal, Padraig; daughter Sinéad and grandchildren.

If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Sile’s Month’s Mind Mass and Frank’s First Anniversary Mass will be held this Sunday, 16th August in Rahara Church.

or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

PAT QUIGLEY: 087 7799076 PAUL O’CONNOR: 086 6052649

• Headstones • Kerbed Memorials • Grave Site Care • Headstone Cleaning • Monument Levelling • Gravestone Repair

26

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

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

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

Telephone: 090 66 33026

Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

www.roscommonwindows.ie

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

Window and Door Repairs BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

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

WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

Tel: 090

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

INSTALLATION

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

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

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING DURING THESE DIFFICULT WEEKS YOU MUST CALL IN ADVANCE TO ORDER REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS

086 6002721

S tephen H oare

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

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

Ring us from your car when you arrive for collection of your order/appointment.

We ask that all payments be made by card if possible and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food.

While on the premises we ask all customers to observe the 2m rule at all times.

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

LOCKSMITH

Chris’s Locksmith Service l

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

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

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com 08383

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

6621220

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

RECYCLING

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

FARMING

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

DRILLING SERVICE Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

087 2596055

Tel: 090

Contact Pat Hanley on

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

AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

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

LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMON Tel: 090 662 6898

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

BLINDS

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

CLEANING

VETERINARY

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chasing / Core Drilling Service Domestic & Commercial Prompt Service | Keen Rates | Fully Insured

Call John 087 610 8499

Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

27

Sports PEOPLE

Tremane triumph in thriller!

Action from Athleague v Tremane last weekend. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Seamus Duke on last weekend’s hurling The game of the weekend in the Kepak Roscommon SHC was the clash of Tremane and Athleague on Saturday night. In a high-scoring thriller in the Athleague sunshine, Tremane emerged the ten-point winners after a superb display from pillar to post. Without talisman Niall Kilroy, the Seamus Qualter-managed side had two goals in the opening half courtesy of fullforward John Brennan, and led by 2-9 to 0-9 at half-time.

A third goal – from Cathal Brennan on 39 minutes – put Tremane further ahead, but Athleague battled back into contention with a goal from Eoghan Coyle after 45 minutes giving them hope. However, Tremane were the stronger team and with Peter Kellehan outstanding at centrehalf-back they held on easily to win by 10 points (3-20 to 1-16). It was the first time that Tremane had beaten their neighbours in the championship since 2004.

St. Dominic’s were comfortable 0-16 to 0-10

winners against Oran in Knockcroghery on Sunday in what was a lacklustre match. Mickey Joe Egan scored 0-12 for the winners. Having experienced two losses, Oran are now out of contention.

Four Roads put down a very important marker at Pairc an Piarsiagh on Sunday evening when they defeated Padraig Pearses by 1-18 to 1-13. A goal early in the second half from Adam Finnerty gave the home side hope, but Adam Donnelly’s 56th minute goal sealed a well-deserved win for the champions.

The final round of matches takes place the weekend after next. A win for Athleague against Roscommon Gaels will put them through to the semi-finals from Group B, alongside Tremane. In Group A, Four Roads play Oran. Four Roads just need a draw to be certain of progressing, while Oran are out of contention.

Meanwhile, there is a real cliffhanger in prospect between Padraig Pearses and St. Dominic’s.

A draw will be sufficient to put St. Dominic’s through, while Pearses need a win to qualify for the last four.

Action from St. Dominic’s v Oran last weekend. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

28

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

SportsPeople Round 3: The state of play…In the Roscommon football senior, intermediate and junior championships the top two teams in each of the three groups will automatically make it to the quarter-finals, while the third-placed teams in each group will play off for the remaining two ‘last eight’ positions. The top team in each group will be seeded in the quarter-final draw. The bottom teams in each group will play off to avoid relegation.

Big weekend for club football Hodson Bay Hotel SFC < SEAMUS DUKE

Group A Fixtures: Clann na nGael v Strokestown at Johnstown; St. Brigid’s v Elphin at Kiltoom.

Both games on Saturday evening at 7 pm Strokestown are already out of contention and will have to take part in the relegation scrap.

They face Clann na nGael on Saturday. Liam Kerins’ men should complete their group campaign unbeaten on their own turf at Johnstown.

St. Brigid’s, who are also unbeaten, will be favoured to defeat Elphin at Kiltoom with the visitors probably having to face a play-off to see if they can make it to the last eight. But expect them to be very competitive against St. Brigid’s.

Prediction: Clann and St. Brigid’s to qualify automatically.

Elphin for the play-offs.

Group B Fixtures: Fuerty v Roscommon Gaels at Mulhern Park; Western Gaels v St. Croan’s in Frenchpark; Both games on Sunday at 2 pm Western Gaels, who have been impressive thus far, will entertain St. Croan’s at Frenchpark.

Fergal O’Donnell’s men should make it three wins from three and progress to the last eight.

There is a real dogfight in prospect at Mulhern Park in Fuerty where the home side must beat near-neighbours Roscommon

Gaels if they are to be in with a chance of staying in the race for the Fahey Cup (See ‘Game of the Weekend’).

Prediction: Western Gaels and Roscommon Gaels to qualify.

St. Croan’s for the play-offs.

Group C Fixtures: Boyle v Michael Glavey’s at Boyle; Tulsk v Padraig Pearses in Tulsk. Both games on Saturday at 5 pm There is a very attractive pairing in Boyle on Saturday evening as the home side meet Michael Glavey’s with the winners guaranteed of a quarterfinal spot alongside champions Padraig Pearses. Boyle will be keen to put their shaky display against Tulsk behind them. This match will be streamed live by Roscommon GAA. The champions should complete the group stages with a win against Tulsk, although last year’s intermediate champions will be determined to go out of this year’s championship with a bang ahead of a relegation battle.

Prediction: Pearses to top the table with Boyle coming in next and Michael Glavey’s to play off for a third quarter-final spot.

Game

of the weekend

Action from the recent Michael Glavey’s v Padraig Pearses game. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Group B: Fuerty v Roscommon Gaels on Sunday in Mulhern Park at 2 pm These are the games that make the GAA club championships so attractive, and, with so much riding on the result, it’s a pity that there won’t be any more than 200 people in Fuerty to see this

clash of the neighbours. All indications and form would point to a Roscommon Gaels’ win. While without John McManus and possibly David O’Gara, they have key players in the likes of James Featherstone, Cathal Dineen, Mark Healy, Scott Oates, Ronan Carolan and Peter Gillooly.

Fuerty will relish this battle. Niall Kilroy is very likely to play. He is the talisman for his side. The Bannons,

Darragh Heavey, Philip Neilan, Cian Murray and the deadly accurate Gearoid Ennis will definitely take advantage of any complacency in the Gaels’ performance.

This promises to be a cracking game.

The Gaels look to have more in terms of quality players and they should withstand what will be an almighty challenge from the home side.

Prediction: Roscommon Gaels.

Mulryan Construction IFC previews < SEAMUS DUKE

Group A Fixtures: Kilmore v Castlerea St. Kevin’s at Kilmore; Oran v Éire Óg at Rockfield. Both games on Sunday at 3 pm In this so-called ‘group of death’, Oran are flying high at the top of the table and their clash with Éire Óg should determine who finishes top. Oran should be good enough to deny Conor Cox & Co. Kilmore dug out a famous win against Éire Óg in the last round and will be favoured to beat an out-of-sorts Castlerea, who look destined for the relegation play-offs.

Prediction: Oran and Kilmore to win.Éire Óg for the play-offs.

Group B

Action from St. Aidan’s v Creggs recently. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Fixtures: Creggs v St. Faithleach’s in Creggs; St. Aidan’s v Kilbride in Ballyforan. Both games on Saturday at 5 pm The top two, Creggs and St. Faithleach’s, meet in Creggs and the Ballyleague men will have to tighten up at the back if they are to make further progress. They conceded 4-10 against Kilbride and will be well tested by the home

side on Saturday. This could be one of the games of the weekend.

St. Aidan’s face Kilbride in a winner-takes-all contest in Ballyforan with the winners going into the play-offs and the losers into a relegation play-off. Kilbride look the better bet.

Prediction: St. Faithleach’s to remain unbeaten. Kilbride to overcome St. Aidan’s.

Group C Fixtures: St. Dominic’s v Shannon Gaels in Knockcroghery; St. Barry’s v Ballinameen in Tarmonbarry. Both games on Sunday at 4 pm High-flying St. Dominic’s complete their programme with a home game against Shannon Gaels, who are also unbeaten, and through to the quarter-finals. The Knockcroghery men have put up big scores so far and they should record another win here.

There is a real battle in store in Tarmonbarry between the two bottom teams, St. Barry’s and the junior champions Ballinameen. The losers here will be in a relegation battle and Ballinameen look favourites to survive.

Prediction: St. Dominic’s and Ballinameen to win.

29

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

SportsPeople

Pictured at the Roscommon Ladies Football Adult Championship launch on Monday evening were Adrian Grealy (Abbey Hotel, senior sponsor), Michael McHugh (executive), Cormac McNally (fixtures), Sandra Shanagher (treasurer), Martina McHugh (executive), Marie McAleer (County Board secretary) and Brendan Cregg (chairperson of Roscommon Ladies Football). Photograph: Michelle Hughes Walsh.

Pictured at the Roscommon Ladies Football Adult Championship launch on Monday evening were Casey Kane (Kilbride II), Olga Kenny (St. Croan’s), Maeve Greene (Eire Óg,) Siobhan Ormsby (St. Faithleach’s), Niamh Toolan (St. Barry’s), Emer Kelly (Four Roads) and Eleanor McWeeney (Kilmore). Photograph: Michelle Hughes Walsh.

Pictured at the Roscommon Ladies Football Adult Championship launch on Monday evening were Maura Tansey (Northern Harps), Sorcha Casey (St. Dominic’s II), Lisa Mullen (Roscommon Gaels) and Deirdre Regan (Oran). Photograph: Michelle Hughes Walsh.

Pictured at the Roscommon Ladies Football Adult Championship launch on Monday evening were Ailish Fannon (Kilbride), Ciara Quinn (Clann na nGael), Jenny Higgins (Western Gaels), Natalie McHugh (Kilglass Gaels), Rachel Brady (St. Mary’s Tulsk) and Orla Mullanney (Shannon Gaels). Photograph: Michelle Hughes Walsh.

Launch of Ladies Club Football Championship

It was a ladies club football championship season we thought wouldn’t happen, but thankfully everything is now in full swing for the Roscommon LGFA 2020 season. This is the longest break we’ve ever had from football, and probably the longest the players will ever experience in their careers. There are plenty of unknowns, but it will be about the players’ characters, as much as their ability, as they get back to the business of trying to win games.

The Abbey Hotel – Senior Championship They say old friends are best, and as our Senior Championship is well underway, our great friends at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon are once again our main sponsors.

Over the years Adrian Grealy of the Abbey Hotel has recognised and supported our growing sport. We are truly indebted to the Abbey for their belief, financial input and long-held tradition of giving to local clubs and teams. 2020 has being that year that impacted everyone, and we call on all our loyal players and supporters to support the Abbey Hotel, and give their wonderful establishment a visit.

The Abbey Hotel Senior Championship is back in action since July 26th and four-in-a-row winning Kilbride are striving for five.

Kilbride have won three of their games and have a home game this Sunday against Shannon Gaels. With little change to the Kilbride squad, manager Ollie

Lennon is looking forward, not back.

Elsewhere, Clann will be looking to put the disappointment of last year behind them when they face last year’s Intermediate champions Kilglass this Sunday.

Clann, with some injured players back, will be looking to spoil the party. Kilglass have been holding their own with a win and a draw, and will be looking to pick up points this Sunday.

A rejuvenated Shannon Gaels, currently in second place, take on table-toppers Kilbride this weekend. Anything other than a Kilbride win here would be a huge surprise, but the Shannonsiders will be looking further ahead and looking to get into a final.

Western Gaels and St. Mary’s, Tulsk have zero points on the table. Who will be relegated to Intermediate? Only time will tell.

A total of 6 teams are vying to win this year’s Abbey Hotel Senior Championship title, with the finals down for the 19th of September when all will be revealed.

The fourth round of the Abbey Hotel Senior Championship takes play on Sunday, August 16th at 11 am.

McNeill’s Foodstore & Catering – Intermediate Championship ‘Driving Delicious’ is the McNeill’s Foodstore motto, and driving our sport is the result, with the store being our Intermediate Championship sponsors for 2020.

The family-run business recognises the importance of the LGFA

tion in group A is Éire Óg (who have won three from three) and in Group B, it’s St. Barry’s.

Junior C Oran, Roscommon Gaels, Northern Harps, St. Dominic’s II & St. Michael’s/St. Ronan’s are competing in Junior C. Last year’s beaten finalists Oran are currently lying on top of the table. It’s looking like Roscommon Gaels or Northern Harps will be playing Oran in the final. Oran are on form with the return of Deirdre Regan a boost and are looking like they will be promoted up to Junior A and B. Pictured at the Roscommon Ladies Football Adult Championship launch on Monday evening were Chloe Joyce (St. Dominic’s), Éala Ní Chumhaill (St. Ciaran’s), Rachel Harte (Castlerea), Suzie Keenahan (Boyle) and Kate Nolan (St. Brigid’s). Photograph: Michelle Hughes Walsh.

family, and we ask our football family to call into McNeill’s and enjoy their wonderful food and convenience shopping. Thank you to Liam and all at McNeill’s.

This year, we have six teams competing in the Intermediate Championship: St. Ciaran’s, St. Brigid’s, Castlerea, Padraig Pearses, St. Dominic’s and Boyle. The clash of the round sees Boyle face last year’s beaten Intermediate finalists St. Ciaran’s on Sunday, August 23rd. With the teams in first and second placings, it will be an interesting contest and a possible insight into who will be crowned Intermediate champions.

St. Ciaran’s are many people’s favourites to go all the way, but Boyle and St. Brigid’s cannot be ruled out. 2019 beaten semi-

finalists St. Dominic’s haven’t yet hit the same rich vein of form this year, and this could be due to injuries to key players. Boyle will want to keep their unbeaten run going this weekend.

Last year’s finalists St. Ciaran’s had a tricky start against St. Brigid’s, where they drew. There is very little to separate the sides in the remainder of the matches, so expect some close battles.

The fourth round of the Intermediate Championship takes place on Sunday, August 16th at 11 am.

Keenan’s Bar & Restaurant – Junior Championship The 2020 Junior Championship sees new teams and emerging talent, and is sponsored by the flourishing and successful Keenan’s

Bar & Restaurant, Tarmonbarry.

This is a beautiful hotel that deserves to be supported.

In the junior championship, we again have nine teams competing. In Group A we have Éire Óg, St. Faithleach’s, Strokestown, St. Croan’s and Michael Glavey’s – who contested the Roscommon junior final last year. In Group B we have St. Barry’s, Kilbride 2 (who for the second year are entering a second string junior team), Four Roads and Kilmore.

The top two from each group in this year’s Keenan’s Bar and Restaurant Junior championship will progress to the championship semi-finals on September 6th. St. Barry’s meet Four Roads on Sunday, currently top in group B and guaranteed a semi-final position. Currently in poll posi-

Some thank yous Best of luck to all clubs competing as we look forward to a very different, interesting and exciting Roscommon Ladies championship season.

A special word of thanks to all the club captains who made the journey to the picturesque Portrunny on Monday evening last for the launch.

We would also like to take this opportunity thank our PRO and Roscommon LGFA official photographer Michelle Hughes Walsh for the pictures taken at the recent Roscommon Ladies Championship launch.

Thanks to our main sponsor, Ballymore, for their generous sponsorship, and to all sponsors of our underage competitions.

We are deeply indebted to all. We call on all our supporters to support our sponsors when they can in those unusual times.

30

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

SportsPeople

Watch Boyle v Michael Glavey’s live on Saturday Roscommon GAA will livestream the game between Boyle and Michael Glavey’s from Abbey Park, Boyle live on www.gaaroscommon.ie. Just click on livestreaming and choose the game from Thursday to purchase it.

The livestreaming service provided by Roscommon GAA, with commentary by Seamus Duke, is proving extremely popular with Roscommon people at home and abroad.

There will be an assortment of county stars on show, including the senior captain Enda Smith, his brother Donie, Conor Hussey, Andy Glennon, Gary Patterson, and the likes of Cian McKeon, Cathal Heneghan and Evan McGrath. Tune in for an entertaining fixture!

Soccer fixtures Friday, August 14 KF Autos Second Division Cup Semi-Final St. John’s Athletic B v Skyvalley B at 7 pm. K. Reynolds Ballaghaderreen B v Manor Utd at 7 pm. D. Jordan th

Saturday, August 15th Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup Round 3 Boyle Celtic B v Glen Celtic at 7 pm. A. Bolarinwa

Horses by Tom Red for Courses

Sunday, August 16th Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup Round 2 St. Peter’s FC v St. Cuan’s at 2 pm Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup Round 3 Shiven Rovers v Cloonfad A at 2 pm Ballinasloe Town A v Boyle Celtic A at 2 pm Skyvalley Rovers A v Ballaghaderreen at 2 pm

Short putts (News from local golf clubs) Castlerea The first 18 holes of Maura Kelly’s Lady Captain’s Prize were played in very challenging conditions. However the weather didn’t deter the ladies from braving the elements to play in Maura’s competition.

Liam Walsh won the Lady Captain’s prize for men, the ‘Round Robin’ prize went to Mary Larkin, and the winner of the 9-hole competition was Irene Burke. Treasa Meaney had the ‘Longest Drive’ and Nicola Devine hit ‘Nearest the Pin’ on the day. Maura Tully had the best score for the first 18 holes, and Laura Griffith won the second 18 holes. Third prize went to Ruth Sullivan, while Mamie Creaton won the gross prize.

Maureen Claffey was the overall runner-up, and the winner of the Lady Captain’s Prize 2020 was Valerie Callaghan.

The members of Castlerea Golf Club wish to thank Maura Kelly for her wonderful year as Lady Captain. She is always pleasant, warm and welcoming, and gets on very well with everyone.

Maura has shown remarkable dedication and commitment to the club this year.

Carrick-on-Shannon Congrats to Fiachra Neary and his Jimmy Bruen team on a great win over Castle Dargan on Saturday in the first round.

Congrats also to John Coffey and his Pierce Purcell team on their win over Co. Sligo.

Last weekend our Jimmy Bruen team had a brilliant win over Enniscrone. A fantastic start to the inter-club season. Well done to all involved.

Voucher results: Congrats to Daniel Egan on winning the voucher competition with a score of 63 net. 2nd was Damien Quigley (65 net). Gross was won by Nathan Flynn; 3rd Stephen Sheeran (66 net).

Lawnmower Classic Congratulations to the winners of the Best Ladies

Team (sponsored by Soilse Pharmacy)…Renee Dolan, Mary Molloy, Dolores Mulvey and Siobhan Talbot. Phil McWeeney won the Accuracy Prize and Jessie Doherty the Longest Drive.

Maria Talbot Perpetual Trophy Anna Smith has her first win of the season, securing The Maria Talbot Perpetual Trophy with a net of 69.

Upcoming fixtures The Granard Cup Qualifier (Foursomes) takes place this weekend. The month ends with Grafters Stableford on August 23rd and Trailblazers Stableford on August 30th.

Boyle The Captain’s Prize for the ladies took place on Sunday, the 9th of August. Results to follow.

Captain’s Prize The big event of the year for the men, the Captain’s Prize, is upon us, taking place this Sunday (the 16th), in the traditional format of 18-hole Strokeplay with the top scorers returning for a 9-hole play-off later that evening. Online booking is now open. Lorcan Egan is this year’s men’s Captain.

Roscommon Our club fundraising draw is underway at the moment, and tickets have been issued to all members. If you haven’t received your allocation, please contact a member of our finance committee. Funds raised by this draw will be used to aid vital course remedial works. Tickets are modestly priced at €5 each or three tickets for €10. There are some great prizes up for grabs for the lucky winners.

Commiserations to our Senior Cup team who lost out this week to Enniscrone, and to our Jimmy Bruen team who lost out to Ballinasloe.

Wishing our Pierce Purcell team the best of lunch on Friday when they play Athlone GC.

At Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club, Lady Captain Gabriel Madsen presents the winners of the Lawnmower Classic Best Ladies Team (sponsored by Soilse Pharmacy) to Siobhan Talbot, Dolores Mulvey, Mary Molloy and Renee Dolan.

Lucky Vega, green, wins easily from The Lir Jet, purple and Aloha Star,pink.

Racing this afternoon takes place at Leopardstown on the level, with the Group 3 Desmond Stakes racing off at 1.00pm and this evening the first of 4 days racing at Tramore, this evening’s NH off at 4.40pm closing with a Ladies 2m flat race. There are 2 meetings tomorrow in the afternoon on the flat at headquarters in the Curragh featuring 2 Group 3 events, the St Leger Trial, and the Royal Whip Stakes first race 1.00pm and jumping in Tramore at 4.45pm. On Saturday there are 2 flat meetings on all-weather in Dundalk at 12.55pm and the third days racing at Tramore at 4.40pm. Sunday sees racing at 2.10pm in Cork at Mallow featuring the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes and the last of the 4 day Tramore Festival with jumping away at 2.30pm. On Monday afternoon there is NH racing, 5 hurdle races and a bumper, in Tipperary at 1.00pm. On Tuesday flat racing in the west as the action returns to Lenebane with racing scheduled for 4.10pm start but as times may change check times for Tuesday.

Leading Irish rider Billy Lee is set to miss two weeks of Irish racing to keep his partnership with star miler Romanised intact. The Ken Condon-trained Classic winner will bid for a second consecutive Prix Jacques le Marois success on Sunday at Deauville. It the third year in a row Romanised will run in the race having finished unplaced in 2018, under Shane Foley, behind the Jessica Harrington trained Centauri. Circus Maximus, Alpine Star and Kameko are also in the mix.

There were 10 runners in the Phoenix Stakes last Sunday won by the Jessica Harrington trained Lucky Vega with Shane Foley aboard. Aloha Star finished runner-up with English raider The Lir Jet 3rd beaten short head and 3½l. The placings of the 2nd and 3rd were reversed in a steward’s inquiry, the result of which has been appealed by the trainer of the 2nd, Fozzy Stack. There were 4 horses supplemented in the race at a cost of €20,000 and only Fozzy Stack made it count with 3rd place money equal to supplementation costs. Steel Bull hit his head on the starting stalls breaking 2 teeth.

Last Friday’s meeting in Sligo was abandoned after the fourth race on the

card, in the interests of safety, as four horses slipped up on the bend after the winning post. Ideal Pal stumbled on the bend on the first circuit unseating Donagh O’Connor and after the finish of the race three horses slipped up and parted company with their jockeys leading to a deputation of jockeys and trainers to discuss the incidents with the stewards. An inspection of the ground on the bend was held and the stewards made a decision to abandon the rest of the card.

Roscommon Preview

On Tuesday there are 7 races advertised for Lenabane. The first 5 races are over 7f, starting with a maiden race for 2-Y-O’s sponsored by Irish Stallion Farms EBF. The second is a conditions maiden, the Foran Equine Irish EBF Auction Race, for 2-Y-O’s. The 3rd is a 3-Y-O+ Maiden sponsored JF Hanley Ltd., Ballydooley and the 4th a 3-Y-O+ handicap sponsored by Dominick Connolly and Eurona Brisknet.

Next up is the final 7f race, a handicap, for 3-Y-O+. Racing finishes with two 1m 3f races, the first a maiden for 3-Y-O’s and the Sean Cleary Memorial Handicap for 4-YO+ brings down the curtain. Sean tragically lost his life as a result of a fall on the flat in Galway in October 2003. An Athlone native he was the son of trainer Tom and Kathleen and brother of jockey Rory.

Racing News

David Egan, retained rider for Prince Faisal, missed out on the winning ride, Mishriff, in the French Derby due to Covid-19 travel restrictions misses out again on the mount in the Group 2 Prix Guillaume d’Ornano at Deauville on Saturday due to a 5-day suspension picked up at Goodwood. Frankie Detorri will probably take the mount on John Gosden’s 3-Y-O. High temperatures led to the abandonment of the 3m novices’ hurdle at Southwell on Monday on veterinary advice. With temperatures reaching 28o the stewards deemed the long-distance race unsafe to run, for the horses, in the hot weather after an inquiry.

31

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

SPORTS PEOPLE with PAUL HEALY Heroes last forever… pandemics don’t HEROES

REFLECTIONS ON SPORTING INSPIRATIONS

And now, the end is near…

This ‘Heroes’ series was never meant to last this long; then again, neither was the pandemic.

It all started because of the pandemic. Once the country came to a standstill back in February/March, the newspaper industry was plunged into crisis. Quite apart from a collapse in advertising (particularly vital for free newspapers!) there was an alarming disappearing act by…news and sport.

Suddenly, there wasn’t much to write about, still less to report on – well, apart from Covid.

No wonder many media organisations went into full nostalgia mode – hence the repeats of sports ‘classics’ on TV. As silence reigned, I decided to fill a page every week – well, for a while anyway – with a series on sportspeople who were or are heroes of mine. It was never meant to continue for this long. Did I mix up heroes with stars? Yes, probably. Now, (and with some sadness), I’m bringing it to an end…aptly enough in week 19!

Did I mix up heroes and stars? Heroes and superstars? Heroes and machines/robots?

Heroes and great achievers? Yes! I think I began to confuse myself at times!

While he didn’t get a column to himself, the brilliant, moody and terrifically entertaining tennis player Ille Nastase was a hero of mine.

There have been numerous players who were far more successful than him…but I could never love an Ivan Lendl or even a Boris Becker the way I loved Nastase!

Also, I tended (mostly) to concentrate on heroes of my youth. I mean, Johnny Sexton is a modern-day sporting star and a hero to many, but I was much more likely to go all sentimental and recall someone like Tony Ward. So this, unashamedly, has been a series marked by sentiment, childhood memories, nostalgia. That’s probably why someone like Liam Brady was in, and someone like the fairly handy Messi didn’t make it!

Besides, one person’s hero is just another

sportsman or sportswoman to someone else. It’s all subjective. In the end, I picked the people who meant most to me. Did I still mix up actual heroes (to me) with people who achieved greatly/were stars? Yes (again). Looking back, I don’t think Barry McGuigan (week 16) was an actual hero of mine; I think he was included in the series because of the sheer magic of that one unforgettable night in Loftus Road when we won the world title (yeah, I’m fickle).

And, being honest, I can’t really say that Steve Davis, Jimmy White or Ken Doherty were proper heroes of mine; well, maybe Jimmy. I could never love another snooker player the way I loved Alex (week 13). He was my only true snooker hero, close to my ultimate sporting hero. Of course I have huge respect and fondness for Steve, Jimmy and Ken. The reason they were included was because I met and interviewed them, and it was a wonderful experience!

The series started with Tony Currie (hero of mine) and Trevor Brooking (hero of my late brother, Gerard). I was in nostalgia mode straight away.

Con Houlihan was the only journalist I put in – (on a whim, but no regrets). I was very close to putting the entire RTE soccer panel in – that’s Bill, John, Eamon and Liam. Not the end of the world that I didn’t. They were great, but ‘heroes’ might be pushing it!

Eamonn Coghlan, Bjorn Borg, Muhammad Ali, George Best, Alex Higgins, Sonia O’Sullivan and Tony McManus were ALWAYS going to be in the series. Ali, Higgins and Best are probably my top three of all time. Absolute heroes of mine…three amazing entertainers.

I adored Coghlan. What a star! His 1983 World title win matches McGuigan’s 1985 fight as an epic sporting moment.

Borg was magic. So cool, so magnetic. McEnroe owes him so much! Borg was simply sensational, winning those five Wimbledons titles in a row.

Tony Mc was a wonderful servant to Roscommon football, a player of great class who also had a marvellous work ethic. I enjoyed a few special years reporting on his often lonely leadership of the Roscommon attack.

I did not see a lot of Dermot Earley’s playing

They were always on my mind…

If I was writing a few more columns for this ‘Heroes’ series, I’d have no trouble coming up with people to include. However, I was a little conflicted between who were actual heroes of mine, as distinct from admirable sportstars who are prominent in my consciousness.

I did not see an awful lot of the great Roscommon team of 1977-’80.

I’m well aware of the brilliance and renown of players like John ‘Jigger’ O’Connor; I just didn’t see enough of them. I remember Micheal O’Hehir poetically praising the dashing Danny Murray. Not being glib, but the stars of that team were all heroes, and will remain heroes to Roscommon people forever.

It was such a pleasure, from around 1988 onwards, to get to know Jimmy

Murray, All-Ireland winning captain with Roscommon in 1943 and ’44.

He was a true hero. A most unassuming man whose name is gone into folklore. I’ve written extensively about Jimmy (in books and newspapers) and categorise him as a hero, a legend and a gentleman.

The marvellous Roscommon minors of 2006 (All-Ireland champions) are heroes to Roscommon GAA supporters too, as are many more players spanning the decades.

I was tempted to select Brian O’Driscoll, so too Padraig Harrington. I rejoice in their brilliant achievements. Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman have all had a special impact on me too.

There was a decent soccer player called Diego Maradona (I was a big

fan!). English football abounds with colourful characters. I liked Frank Worthington, and flamboyant players of his ilk!

Maybe I was wrong to overlook the wonderful, lion-hearted Irish athlete, John Treacy. In horse racing, Ireland has produced some of the greatest jockeys of all time. I came late to the extraordinary career of that man of steel, Tony McCoy, surely a hero by anyone’s definition.

Stephen Roche or Sean Kelly?

Mmnn…iron men…but in a greatly tainted sport. I enjoyed cricket superstar Ian Botham’s all-action peak years; I never knew enough about Basketball or American Football to go there.

I didn’t have enough hurling knowledge to quite justify selecting

career, but I included him because I was aware that he was a hero to thousands of Roscommon people. Plus, he deserved to be included.

When I was six or seven years of age, he was a hero to me and my friends, simply by the enormity of his name and reputation. We walked two miles to school in Rooskey, imagining we were Dermot Earley…before we’d even seen him in the flesh. His legend went before him. A great, great man.

Maybe I included Jack Charlton there and then (week 15) because he had just passed away. I didn’t have him on my initial shortlist, but I had the Irish team of 1988-’94 in the mix, and I absolutely loved Jack. So I’m glad I included him. He achieved great things and was a thoroughly likeable man. A legend.

Including Paul McGrath was easy. For a few seasons – although a Leeds fan – I watched his club career with awe, the by then injuryravaged McGrath producing man of the match performances every weekend. And for Ireland, he was truly…well, heroic.

There’s a distinct lack of females in the series. I had to be true to my memory of the eras. When I was growing up, women’s sport did not have anything like the profile it has now. I was always going to include Sonia O’Sullivan. She was magnificent. I place her in the top three Irish sportspeople of all time.

In fact, has any other Irish sportsperson provided more joy, drama and excitement than Sonia?

I have huge respect and admiration for Katie Taylor, but I cannot say she was/is a hero of mine (again, I’ve concentrated mostly on earlier years). I was very close to including Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert.

Tony Ward was always likely to be included, and I squeezed Ollie Campbell in too (week 9).

As the weeks passed, as enjoyable as it was, I was finding the weekly requirement becoming more and more demanding. In all, I’ve written about 30,000 words in this ‘Heroes’ series. I had to call a halt! I almost ended it the week before last, but am glad I included Eddie Macken. Eddie was a true sporting hero of my youth. I’ve loved writing the series. We will ensure that all 19 articles are accessible on our website. Below, a quick musing on the ones who almost made it. Again, heroes v stars!

Thanks to our readers for the very positive feedback on the series. Thanks to my heroes – and to sporting heroes everywhere – for the magic they bring into our lives. Heroes last forever… pandemics don’t!

a hero in this marvellous sport…I greatly admired DJ Carey, but if I was to pick one superstar hurler, it would be the magnificent, dashing, swashbuckling Galway defender, Gerry McInerney. Breathtaking!

If I were to choose a kind of wild card, it would be a soccer player who gave me immense pleasure over many years; the incredible Matt Le Tissier.

Fellow Leeds fans, forgive me for not including several of the great Don Revie team. Of course they are all heroes to me, but I didn’t see them when they were playing, and therefore felt it would be unfair to include them. But what a team…

Johnny Giles, Peter Lorimer and Eddie Gray…and all the others!

The complete series… oking 1: Tony Currie & Trevor Bro ite & Wh my Jim is, Dav ve 2: Ste Ken Doherty 3: Con Houlihan 4: Eamonn Coghlan 5: Bjorn Borg 6: Muhammad Ali 7: Dermot Earley 8: Liam Brady pbell 9: Tony Ward & Ollie Cam 10: Seve Ballesteros 11: Sonia O’Sullivan 12: George Best 13: Alex Higgins 14: Paul McGrath 15: Jack Charlton 16: Barry McGuigan 17: Tony McManus 18: Eddie Macken see For previous columns, ople.ie www.roscommonpe

Roscommon People Friday 14 August 2020

32

GREENGRASS Lawn Care Roscommon. Tel.: 090 66 26664 | M.: 087 6339548 | www.connaughtonfuels.ie

1 x Tonne of Top Quality Premium Coal delivered & stacked neatly in your shed for only

€17.50 per week

* Over 30 weeks – T&C Apply

FIRST 10 ORDERS CAN AVAIL OF GETTING 20kg BAGS FOR EASIER POURING – AT NO EXTRA COST!

FREE COURTESY Lawnmower/Ride-on dropped off when we collect yours for Servicing/Repair BELT CHANGE, ETC (while stocks last) last)

Nothing will hold you back when you deal with connaughtonfuels.ie or Greengrass Lawn Care

All size lawns maintained!