15 July 2022 Roscommon People

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The heat is on! Roscommon ‘could hit 30C’ next week

< DAN DOONER

Temperatures could be set to hit 30C in County Roscommon from early next week after Met Éireann issued a high temperature advisory for the region.

The advisory has been in effect since yesterday (Wednesday) and continues until Wednesday of next week (20th).

Ireland is expected to experience a hot spell from Sunday and into next week with temperatures in the high 20s and possibly exceeding 30 degrees in some parts.

Most forecasts show extremely warm weather on the way as warmer air arrives from the south.

Roscommon’s weather station, which is located at Mount Dillon, is expected to hit temperatures in

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Temperatures there are expected to reach the mid to high 30s in areas while some forecasters believe the UK could be set to hit an all-time record of 40 degrees.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

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e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Whatever about Boris, is Larry the cat staying on?

Seriously, I can’t believe that charming, cuddly pet is on the way out of Downing Street!

Huh? Boris…a charming pet? ARE YOU FOR REAL? Not Boris! The Downing Street cat! Surely you’ve seen him hopping in and out of CYCLING No. 10? ACCIDENT Oh yeah, HIM! But Larry the cat won’t be leaving Downing Street! HE stays on! He’s If you were involved in a cycling been there since 2011! accident contact Oh,Byrne good!Carolan But Boris is gone?

Well, he will be…once the Tories elect a Cunningham Solicitors new leader.

And that could take ‘til September?

Yep! I thought he’d have to be removed by force…

Yeah, he fought quite a rearguard action… but he’s finished now!

What will he do?

Well, his background is in journalism. He was a very popular columnist with the Daily Telegraph. He might go back to that!

(They pause to wonder why they’re talking about Boris and Larry on such a glorious day) So, quite an SOS for Kerry! They withstood a great Dublin fightback, issued an SOS…and their appeal was answered!

Huh? SOS…Sean O’Shea! He scored an opportunist goal, then delivered the winner with that epic late free!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Oh yeah!

And what about Damien Comer and our friends in Galway?

Brilliant! They’re into the All-Ireland final, and Damien’s red-hot!

And Boyle won the O’Rourke Cup… congrats to Cian Smith and his merry men!

Absolutely! Anything else exciting happen

(They pause to check if it’s safe to turn on the radio without hearing a pol corr droning on about how the numbers stack up in the Dáil) Hey, I had a missed call from the Editor…

You’re joking!

He left a muffled voicemail…

Huh? Dunno if he was joking or not, but he said something about our column being too boring, and how he might experiment with a guest columnist…

NO! Our worst fears are coming true! But you ASSURED me our contract talks were going well!

He may be joking, he’s been teasing me about Joe Brolly for ages…

Huh! But in the voicemail, he muttered something about a high profile former columnist in the UK now being out of work…

NOT BORIS! Not the indignity of being replaced by Boris!

I’m sure it was a joke!

I expect it was! By the way, how come Larry the cat gets to stay in Downing Street?

Not sure…oh I guess, unlike Boris…he has nine (political) lives!

PEOPLE writing headlines…

Damien Comer & Sean O’Shea They broke the hearts of Derry and Dublin respectively, Comer scoring two goals in Galway’s win over the former, O’Shea hitting a long-range free for Kerry to deny the Dubs

Boris Johnson

He’s leaving Downing Street after a controversial reign, but it’s not the last we’ll hear of him

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

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

Pat Spillane

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

He’s leaving The Sunday Game after a controversial reign, but it’s not the last we’ll hear of him

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

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this week?

Well, Michael Lowry came back from the, er…1990s…and voted confidence in the Government!

Ah lovely…old friends are best!

PIC OF THE WEEK: Cousins Aston Giblin, Vaclav Hluchy and Lorcan Flanagan pictured at the Division Four League Final at the weekend, in which Western Gaels defeated Oran. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Of course you’ve watched it. Please don’t deny it. It’s okay to admit it! There was quite the outcry when it was announced some time ago that long-running Aussie ‘soap’ Neighbours would be coming to an end. At least fans can look forward to Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan reprising their roles as Charlene and Scott on the show’s highly anticipated finale.

This week the duo took to Instagram to give a sneak preview of their return. The final episode ever – after a 37-year run – airs in early August. But you knew that!

Rosc Herald 2022 (8).qxp_Layout 1 12/07/2022 15:15 Page 1

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

THE 14TH PERCY FRENCH FESTIVAL • 20th / 21st / 22nd July 2022 informed social & cultural discussion of ireland today H P  h Fv, h P  I, Mh D Hgg

Does the Soul have a Future? bernadette lowry

Percy French, the subject of the Most Extravagant Wake in Human History Her groundbreaking new book showing how Percy French is embedded in Joyce’s Finnegan’s Wake (and how the character of Finnegan himself might well be based on French) has just been published, it is entitled Sounds of Manymirth on The Night’s Ear Ringing. Percy French: His Jarvey Years and Joyce’s Haunted Ink bottle. Copies will be available for sale at the Festival.

paul kingsnorth Silicon Transcendence versus Roots in The Land

larissa nolan

Where am I? Reflections on finding the Authentic Voice in Irish Media

martin henry

Nietzsche’s Questions to Christianity

prof gerard casey What’s a nice soul like you doing with a body like this?

sarah carey

Who is my neighbour?

How primal fear of Other People is holding us back

charles piecyk

Kant to Transhumanism: Human Nature in (Post)modernity

dr maírín mac carron

Saints, Scholars, and Science in Medieval Ireland

john f deane

Three Strange Angels

michael hardiman Carl Jung’s Modern Man in Search of a Soul

kevin finnerty

What has Artificial Intelligence and Transhumanism to do with Percy French?

col ceathair A Little ‘Soul’ Music

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

Murphy: ‘Welcome boost for local Defence Forces families’ Ciaran Mullooly: Page 16 Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed this week’s announcement by Minister for Defence Simon Coveney of a major increase in Defence spending from €1.1 billion to €1.5 billion over the next five years.

Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Murphy said

the news would be warmly welcomed by several hundred Defence Forces families living in the Roscommon area.

“For far too long in this country, many people serving in the army have not got proper treatment. I do hope the top priority will be those people and not military equipment,” he said.

“We obviously need more protection around

our coasts but we must first look after the personnel, the men and women of the Defence Forces.

“Fianna Fáil worked hard over the years to seek a better deal and now that deal has arrived.

I compliment the Government on this move and I also compliment all those involved and look forward to speaking to army families in the region about this deal”.

Supporters Orla Irwin, Kieran Shiel, Majella Kelly, Sara and James Irwin pictured at the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final on Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Letters to the Editor

Author of ‘Civil War article’ responds to criticism Dear Editor, Allow me some space in your newspaper to respond to a letter to the Editor (Roscommon People issue dated July 8th), commenting on a recent article I wrote regarding the civil war and shooting of brigadier Mick Dockery.

In his letter, the writer takes issue with my claim that Mick Dockery had intentions of switching sides from pro to anti-treaty after the start of the civil war in June 1922.

The foundation for the article I wrote was based on data communicated to me by a writer who has researched this period of Irish history intensely, and in whom I have the utmost trust and faith. This same writer has spoken with the son of Johnny Grealy, who was the officer in command of the anti-treaty forces in Boyle in 1922. Johnny Grealy had written his memoirs and entrusted them to his son Michael, and it was from him that my source received the information.

Despite the letter writer’s colourful words to describe me, this narrative was not something I plucked from my imagination without an iota of proof. It was taken from an account of the situation in Boyle from a primary source written by a man that was there at the time. That is the basis of my story.

To conclude, I don’t intend to engage in a tit for tat correspondence on the subject, and I can assure the letter writer that, contrary to his assertions, I am not Machiavellian in character, nor am I a user of amphetamine.

Yours sincerely, Name and address with Editor (withheld on request)

Fond memories of interviews with Archie

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A community’s farewell: Page 15 < DAN DOONER

Like many people in Roscommon and further afield, it was with great sadness that I learned of Archie Naughton’s untimely passing. Anyone who was familiar of the Naughtons’ story knew how Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy had affected Archie and his twin brothers George and Isaac, but no amount of awareness can prepare you for the death of a bubbly and mischievous 16-year-old.

Some of my fondest memories of my time with the Roscommon People include our coverage of various Join Our Boys’ events, including Team Archie’s participation in three Dublin City Marathons. As part of this coverage, I had the great pleasure in meeting Archie and his family and even interviewing him, though sometimes it was more a case of him interviewing me!

Archie loved sport and despite my efforts to convert him to Manchester United, he was a Chelsea fanatic, and took great pleasure in telling me how rubbish United had become!

Archie Naughton (RIP) pictured receiving a ‘Young Hero’ award from Hidden Hearing in 2017.

He was involved with a number of sports teams, both as a player and then later as a coach, and maintained a huge love of Creggs RFC and Connacht Rugby.

Archie was always up for some slagging too, especially when it came to sport or fellow members of Team Archie. During those interviews I was also given a brief glimpse of his determination and positive mindset.

A remarkable young man, Archie seemed to realise just how important his big brother role was when it came to George and Isaac too.

He may have been just 16, but

the example Archie set in how to make the most of life, no matter how difficult the circumstances, is something we can all look up to.

For Archie’s parents, brothers and extended family, there are no words that will ease or make sense of this cruel heartbreak. And while none of us can truly understand what it’s like to walk in their shoes, I hope they can take some solace in knowing that the local community and indeed the county of Roscommon is walking in solidarity closely behind them.

Rest in peace Archie.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

50 on trolleys at local hospitals Figures released by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation yesterday (Wednesday) revealed that 50 patients were waiting for beds and being accommodated on trolleys at local hospitals as of that morning.

At Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe a total of 13 patients were on trolleys while Sligo University Hospital had 37 patients waiting for a bed. Nationally, there were 540 patients on trolleys.

Meanwhile, a rise in the number

Solstice Concert rescheduled to July 22nd

of Covid-19 cases has continued to put a strain on healthcare services here.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has said that three out of four patients in hospital with Covid-19 are over the age of 65. Posting on

Twitter, the Health Minister said that only around half of those in hospital had had the second vaccine booster.

“Vaccines remain the greatest protection against severe disease and hospitalisation,” he said.

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The Roscommon Solstice Choir concert, which was due to take place on July 8th, was deferred last week as a mark of respect to the late Archie Naughton, RIP. The concert has been rescheduled to take place on Friday, July 22nd.

The free concert will run from 8 pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon town. The concert is titled ‘There are no strangers in this house. A concert of reflection and hope’.

With guest artists Eimear Reynolds, Paul Hennessy, Johnny Carroll, Fr Kevin and members of the Ukrainian Community in Donamon all taking part, a night of quality entertainment is guaranteed. Voluntary donations can be made at the door if desired, with all proceeds to the Ukraine Red Cross. All are welcome to attend, so please Supporters Andrea and Brook McGuinness pictured at the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semicome along and show your support. final at Crettyard on Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Congratulations to Molloys Artisan Bakers

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Mary Molloy, Lisa O’Rourke (world champion boxer), Declan Molloy and Niamh Feeney (Roscommon Ladies Football). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Ellen and Mary Tully. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Oscar and Jacqui Anne Molloy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Mags and Bernard Keane. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Angela Mullen, Aoife Mullarkey, Barbara Bablete and Manon Lelohe. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were John Molloy and Gerry Browne. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Barry Molloy, Roisin Molloy, Alan Molloy, John Molloy and Peter Molloy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Dervilla and Noel Beattie. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Cassie, Pat and Marie Doorley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Mary Kelly, Catherine Neilan, Declan Molloy and Des and Evelyn Bruen. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Gwen, Brook Williams, Rita Oates and Pearl Williams. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Eamon and Mary Gleeson. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Congratulations to Molloys Artisan Bakers

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend.

Pictured at the celebrations were Barry Molloy and his five sons. Back row: Alan Molloy, Colin Molloy and Barry Molloy. Front row: Declan Molloy, Barry Molloy Snr and Peter Molloy. Pictures: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Thank You

The Molloy family would like to sincerely thank all our loyal customers, near and far, for supporting us over the past 100 years.

We are very proud to serve the local community with crusty bread and delicious cakes daily.

We look forward to the beginning of the next century, helping you taste the happiness.

Declan, Mary T, Mark, Jackie-Ann Molloy and the entire Molloy team

molloysbakery.ie

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were members of the Molloy family.

090 66 25940

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Mark and Sinead Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Paul and John McDermott and Eamon Carney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Dermot Connolly and Aidan O’Brien. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Carmel and Cormac Hoare. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Declan and Mary Molloy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Declan Molloy, Michael Curley and Barry Molloy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor Thursday-Friday

the UK’s reputation on the international stage.

I tweeted on Tuesday (of last week) that Boris Johnson would be gone before Friday. Realistically, a political leader is surely doomed when confronted with the clearly orchestrated (despite denials) resignation of two leading government ministers. That presumed outcome didn’t stop Boris launching a typically defiant fightback, leading to extraordinary and chaotic scenes in Westminster over two days.

It certainly made for gripping TV, with up to 60 ministers, aides and various other public servants resigning over a 48-hour period. The only thing more extraordinary than the collapse of the ‘House of cards’ was the Prime Minister’s stubborn refusal to quit, even as his government imploded.

By Thursday morning, Boris had finally read the writing on the wall. It read: ‘Game up’. I dislike the simplistic dismissal of him as a buffoon. Contrary to that stereotype, he is an intelligent person. However, the charisma he is often credited with having began to wear off after an initial honeymoon period as PM. It’s a serious job, and it requires a person with gravitas, discipline and good judgement. His tenure as Prime Minister was greatly tarnished and undermined by his dishonesty and untrustworthiness.

He had his good qualities, but ultimately the sense persists that he was not fit to be Prime Minister. Johnson may have advanced Brexit to wherever it is now – it ensures his place in the history books – but he has left the Conservative Party in a mess, and more importantly he has damaged

Saturday

paul@roscommonpeople.ie Back to Dublin v Kerry: I had the foresight to record the game, and watched it in its entirety on Tuesday night. In the Crover House Hotel, most of the patrons seemed to be cheering for Kerry. It was a marvellous contest, with a fantastic finale, the Munster champions prevailing by a point when extra-time seemed inevitable. Kerry will start the upcoming All-Ireland final as warm favourites – which will suit our Galway friends perfectly!

Writing about Mikey Sheehy’s brilliantly instinctive chip into an empty net in the 1978 All-Ireland Football final, the great columnist Con Houlihan famously wrote of the man being lobbed – out-of-position Dublin goalkeeper Paddy Cullen: “Paddy dashed back towards his goal like a woman who smells a cake burning”, Con then adding: “The ball won the race and it curled inside the near post as Paddy crashed into the outside of the net and lay against it like a fireman who returned to find his own station ablaze”.

Today, roaming Derry goalkeeper Odhrán Lynch knew the entire house was already burnt to the ground when he helplessly watched from midfield as Galway turned possession over and Damien Comer brilliantly guided the ball into an empty net for a score that definitively decided the outcome of the All-Ireland semi-final.

What a player Comer is.

Well done to our neighbours Galway on a great achievement in qualifying for the All-Ireland final.

Monday

Sunday Front page headline in this morning’s Sunday Independent: ‘Meet Louis Walsh’s brand new boyband’. Do we have to? Is it compulsory?

Sunday We watched the closing stages of Dublin v Kerry in the Crover House Hotel, which is a stunning venue

Pictured at the official launch of the Galway Races at afternoon tea at the g Hotel & Spa were Orla Quinn and Laura Hanlon from Roscommon. Pic: Andrew Downes, Xposure

overlooking fabulous Lough Sheelin in County Cavan.

Attending a family function there, we managed to see the last 20 minutes or so of a tremendous battle between the

aristocrats of Gaelic football.

(Needless to say, the locals were disappointed with Cavan’s defeat to Westmeath in the previous day’s inaugural Tailteann Cup final).

Those men or women who appear on current affairs or light entertainment radio shows to chat about the weekend sport – or maybe to preview an upcoming sports show – all appear to be blessed with patience. They know their sport, but the ‘anchor’ or host whose show they’re briefly contributing to is invariably working off a ‘man at bar counter’ level of knowledge (I spared taxi drivers there). I mean, let’s face it, like the great Gaybo before him, Ryan Tubridy is no sports’ expert!

Of course chatting about the ould sport is now deemed an essential part of ‘mainstream’ radio.

Our friends on Morning Ireland, for example, have no notion of leaving the previous evening’s sporting drama to the sports’ shows/ bulletins.

All of which brings me to the great Pat Kenny, who revealed his solution to Saturday’s Hawkeye controversy at Croke Park on his Newstalk show today.

(The Hawkeye technology missed a clearcut point in the Derry-Galway AllIreland football semi-final).

When ‘sports guy’ came on

air to review the weekend’s sporting action, Pat unveiled his plan.

The GAA, Pat said, should introduce a second crossbar. This new crossbar would be placed high above the existing crossbar, from upright to upright, the idea being that this would help with judging whether or not scoring attempts have been successful.

(In fairness, it probably would). Warming to his theme, Pat suggested the GAA could go even further; create a box between the uprights – a ball or sliotar trap, effectively – which would provide evidence of a score, doing away with dodgy Hawkeye determinations, while presumably greatly minimising risk of neck injuries for stressed umpires. As Pat unveiled his masterplan, ‘sports round-up guy’ kept his counsel and waited for the moment to pass.

Pat Spillane is retiring from The Sunday Game.

RTE will want a high profile replacement. Pat Kenny is never going to retire. GAA fans…be afraid, be very afraid!

Monday The football team quantity of candidates to be next UK Conservative Party leader (and Prime Minister) were all extremely busy today, running and racing, minds in overdrive. But at one point this morning they all had a moment’s relief and a chance to breathe easier.

That came when a Downing Street spokesperson confirmed that outgoing PM Boris Johnson will not be endorsing any of the candidates aiming to replace him. Cue sighs of relief all around…

09

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

Government comfortably wins confidence vote < DAN DOONER

Popular cook and television presenter, Donal Skehan has once again joined with banana importers Fyffes, this time in search of Ireland’s most imaginative meal-makers, their quest being to find the most delicious dish, savoury or sweet, in which a banana is the key ingredient. Pictured helping him launch the initiative are budding young cooks Lucy (8) and Kate (7) Carroll.

Calling local cooks!

In a competition open to all the family, home cooks throughout Roscommon and beyond are being invited to join a search to find Ireland’s most imaginative mealmakers.

Leading the search is well-known television cook, Donal Skehan, supported by banana importers Fyffes, whose previous collaborations led to the discovery of Ireland’s most creative banana bread

bakers and banana dessert makers.

In the competition two years ago, Isabelle Sexton, a 14-years old student from Roscommon town, was chosen as ‘Best Junior Baker 10 years and over’ for her banana bread creation.

This year, Donal Skehan has broadened his search to include any dish on the menu from first to final course, his invitation being to create the most delicious dish,

savoury or sweet, in which a banana is the key ingredient.

Winning creations, to be judged by Skehan, will see awards presented to the overall winner and best in category entries – including junior entrants, best breakfast, savoury, dessert, no bake and vegan. Entries close on August 4th. Further details are available on Facebook and Instagram.

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The Government won the vote on a motion of confidence in the Dáil on Tuesday by a comfortable majority of 85 votes to 66.

Sinn Féin had tabled a motion of no confidence earlier on Tuesday but the Government tabled a counter motion of confidence which was carried on Tuesday evening.

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said the Government’s working majority was evident from the result and cast doubts on a Sinn Féin-led Government in the near future.

Minister of State Frank Feighan voted confidence in the Government while Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane voted with her party.

Meanwhile, Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice voted no confidence while fellow Independent Denis Naughten didn’t vote.

Earlier, Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane had called on local TDs to back her party’s motion, claiming the Government was failing to tackle the cost of living and housing crises.

Deputy Kerrane said: “This is a Government that is out of ideas, out of touch and out of time. People in Roscommon and Galway are paying the price for this Government’s failures”.

Sligo-Leitrim TD Marc McSharry claimed yesterday (Wednesday) that his support for Government had secured cardiology services for Sligo University Hospital.

However, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin has since denied any ‘side deals’ with Independent TDs to shore up support.

10

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

The

G

D News page

Education award for Rossie girl at Irish Traveller Pride Awards

The first in-person Irish Traveller Pride Awards since the beginning of the pandemic featured winners from across the country, with local girl Latisha McCrudden taking home the Education award at the ceremony at the Lighthouse Cinema in Smithfield on Monday.

The awards were the opening event in this year’s Traveller Pride activities which will take place nationally and locally over the next fortnight.

Speaking at the awards presentation event, Geraldine McDonnell, one of the organisers of Traveller Pride Week and the awards, explained their significance

to the Traveller community.

“The Traveller Pride Awards are one of the highlights of Traveller Pride Week which provides an annual focal point for celebrating Traveller culture and life in Ireland – both nationally and locally.

“The awards highlight and recognise individuals and groups who have made a particular contribution to the community and to wider society and they also serve to challenge many of the racist stereotypes that are unfortunately still too common amongst many members of the settled community,” Geraldine said.

Fifth year student Latisha was presented with her

award at the event hosted by RTÉ presenter, Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh. She will be the first member of her family to complete secondary school. Latisha achieved As across the board in her Junior Cert, as well as receiving a distinction in her Transition Year programme.

She is currently doing nine honour-level subjects for the Leaving Cert and wishes to go on and study law at third level, in the hopes of becoming a lawyer.

As well as law, Latisha has a huge interest in science, having won awards in Scifest for two years, competed in the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, and showcased her

project in both the University of Limerick and Dublin City University. She also won Young Scientist of the Year in her school.

Moreover, Latisha was a Climate Ambassador and won has won an Outstanding Achievement Award.

She also received the bronze medal in the Gaisce President’s Award and the platinum award in the Pope John Paul II Award.

In school, Latisha represents the Traveller community with pride and speaks about being a member of the community, with hopes to get more rights for the community through her involvement in the Irish Traveller Movement.

Launching Traveller Pride Week and the Traveller Pride Awards, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Roderic O’Gorman said: “Traveller Pride Week is a fantastic opportunity to

come together and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Traveller Community and their ongoing contribution to Irish society. I am very pleased that my Department has provided funding to sup-

port, strengthen and expand Traveller Pride Week. The array of talents, skills and dedication displayed at the Awards are impressive and inspiring. Congratulations to the winners and to all those who participated”.

Athlone student among NUI Galway Gaisce Gold Medal awardees Sinéad Reidy from Athlone was among eight NUI Galway students and a special group of inspirational young people who were recently presented with the Gaisce Gold Award

by President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, in recognition of their civic engagement and personal development.

The students in question volunteered hundreds of hours with a variety of non-profit organisations, including Ability West, SVP, Barretstown Childrens Camps, Tidy Towns and Childline, as well as undertaking student leadership roles working towards inclusion and diversity.

Commenting on the award, Sinéad said: “Some

advice that I would give to people thinking of doing Gaisce is to apply now!

I’m really enjoying the challenge at the moment, as the different parts of the Gaisce award are very encouraging, and they force you to get more involved in the college clubs and societies, which is a great way to make new friends”.

Gaisce is a programme that aims to foster and develop young people’s potential. It is a guided and supported framework that is provided for young people aged 14 -25 to explore their natural skills and gain confidence and wellbeing through participation in personal, physical and community challenges.

Lorraine Tansey (NUI

Athlone student Sinéad Reidy pictured receiving her medal from President of Ireland Michael D Higgins and Yvonne McKenna (CEO of Gaisce).

Galway’s President’s Award Leader) said: “Throughout the pandemic, students committed to undertaking the Gaisce award are challenged in their communities, volunteering and building their mental and physical

health skills. We are inspired by the commitment students made and look forward to building on their leadership offering students continued civic learning opportunities with our university community partners”.

Funds donated to Cancer Support Centre Members of Roscommon Cancer Support Services were delighted to welcome Ciaran Hickey and Barbara and Marie Victory to the support centre last week. They kindly donated €300 to the service, which they raised at a darts fundraiser in The Hollywood Bar recently. ‘The Martin Kelly Memorial Cup’ is an annual event held in memory of Marie’s brother Martin who sadly passed away from cancer. The event is organised every year by Ciaran and his wife Lori (Barbara’s daughter).

Boyle’s Book Lady meets the President! < DAN DOONER

Congratulations Kelly!

Congratulations to Kelly McHugh, Fourmilehouse, and a native of Castle Ffrench, who recently graduated from Technological University of Dublin (TUD) with a first class honours degree in Environmental Health.

Mary O’Donoghue, AKA ‘The Book Lady’ and owner of Ireland’s Smallest Bookstore in Boyle, was recently invited to visit Áras an Uachtaráin to meet with President Michael D Higgins.

President Higgins issued the invite to The Bloomsday Garden Party on Sunday, June 12th, and Mary said it was a day she’ll never forget.

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Mary said: “I’m proud to say The Book Lady Boyle – Ireland’s Smallest Bookstore was invited to The Bloomsday Garden Party at Áras an Uachtaráin.

“It was my first real day out since lockdown and I went with my son Cory, who’s 23 and doesn’t really spend days with mom anymore as he lives in Galway.

“For my little shop to be acknowledged by the President was something that doesn’t happen every day. It was a lovely day out and I got to shake the President’s hand.

“The house itself was amazing. We ate strawberries and chocolate and more, enjoyed some white wine, danced to good music, saw Tommy Tiernan, strolled through the gardens and even got to stroke the President’s dogs! It was a wonderful day out”.

Mary O’Donoghue (The Book Lady Boyle) and her son Cory recently enjoyed a visit to Áras an Uachtaráin for The Bloomsday Garden Party.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

New appointments in Diocese of Achonry

Claire Kelly and Aimee Carr pictured at the club hurling in Athleague recently.

Photo: Mick McCormack

Bishop Paul Dempsey has announced the following Diocesan clergy appointments for the Diocese of Achonry: Canon Pat Peyton, PP Collooney to retire and reside in Ballymote as Pastor Emeritus; Fr. Martin Convey, PP Straide to become Parish Priest of Collooney; Fr. Stephen O’Mahony, PP Bohola will, in addition, become

Administrator of Straide; Monsignor Tommy Johnston, PP Charlestown, to become Administrator of Charlestown; Fr. Gerry Davey, Administrator of Carracastle will, in addition, assist in Charlestown.

The appointments will come into effect on the weekend of the 3rd/4th of September.

‘Employment services left in limbo’ Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has this week called on the Minister for Social Protection to make an urgent announcement on the results of a tender for employment services following significant delays.

Deputy Kerrane says the delay has serious implications for providers of existing employment services, which are due to wrap up on August 31st.

“The delays to the tender results announcement are yet another blow to cur-

rent employment service providers, who have seen their services and jobs dismantled over the course of the past year,” she said.

“The delays affect up to 388 staff across 26 Local Employment Service (LES) branches and 40 Job Clubs across the state, who currently provide crucial and highly regarded community-based, notfor-profit employment services.

“It is bad enough that we are seeing this shift from

community-based services to a profit-based model of employment services.

“Now, those who are currently working in this sector do not even know if they will have a job in less than two months’ time”.

The Sinn Féin TD said she has raised the issue in the Dáil and is seeking a further update today (Thursday).

“I also urge the Minister to outline clearly what processes are in place to support providers with

wrapping up their services as we approach the August deadline.

“Sinn Féin has opposed the dismantling of our community-based employment services from the start, and we continue to do so,” she added.

“However, at this stage it is important that the tender results are brought forward to ensure the best possible outcome for LES and Job Clubs staff and those who have relied on their services for decades”.

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Molloy’s in Roscommon celebrated 100 years in business last weekend. Pictured at the celebrations were Miriam, Luke and Conor Devaney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique

take on life ...

From New Zealand to Croker (via the Hyde), it was a great sporting weekend Frank reflects on a weekend of sporting highs; Relaxing on the bog…and savouring the peace and serenity of Knock The weekend gone by was one of the busiest sporting weekends we’ve had for a while. For a lot of us, it could scarcely have gone any better.

First we had the amazing All-Ireland minor football victory for Galway at Hyde Park on Friday evening. Having already lost twice to Mayo in earlier rounds, they turned over the Connacht champions, making it third time lucky and becoming All-Ireland champions for the first time since 2007.

How you can play the same opponents three times in the one championship beats me, but as the great (soon to be former) British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said so memorably when he forfeited his position recently, “Them’s the breaks”.

Saturday morning saw thousands of us installed in our sitting rooms at the unearthly hour of 7.30 or so. Luckily we were handsomely rewarded when Ireland beat the All Blacks in the second test of a three-match series, the first time we’ve ever beaten them on New Zealand soil. The win levelled up the series, setting up a winner-takesall battle this Saturday in Wellington.

Then, for all of us Galway folk, Saturday evening brought even bigger joy, when our senior

footballers beat Derry in the All-Ireland semifinal, qualifying for the final for the first time since 2001.

While the first half of the encounter was described by a Galway Bay FM commentator as “pure muck”, Galway thankfully put in a really good second half. With Damien Comer in unstoppable form, they proved way too powerful for the Ulster champions.

After that, out here in Creggs we were really looking forward to Saturday evening’s Tansey Cup final. The game was to have taken place on our newly-reopened football pitch and would have been the first ever adult county final to take place in Creggs. But sadly, our Strokestown opponents felt they couldn’t ful-

Supporters Paul Beirne, Paul, Dylan and Geraldine Shanagher pictured at the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final in Co. Laois on Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Sitting in the bog… watching the world go by!

It’s Wednesday evening as I write, and I find myself back in the bog turning my turf (though I suppose technically I’m not in the bog at all as our turf is spread out on a field). In any case, as I go about my business, I realise that sometimes we go through life without really appreciating all the beauty and serenity that’s around us.

For nearly all my working life I have been ‘tied’ to the clock, always having to be somewhere at a certain time and always rushing and racing to get there. So, as I slowly worked my way through my reasonably dry turf, I began to take note of my surroundings and to finally be thankful that my working days are well and truly over.

I always bring a chair to the bog, and as I finished each hopper, I sat myself down, admired my work, and listened to and watched the traffic as it passed by on a nearby road. Trucks, buses, tractors, vans and cars were all flying by, and as I sat and watched them, listening to the sound of the birds singing and the frogs croaking – and there are loads of them – I thanked God that unlike all those stressed out motorists, I didn’t have anywhere to go or be. If it took me a day, a week, or even a month to finish my turf, it would make no difference, as for probably the first time in my life there was no shop to open and no boss waiting for me. I have to admit I thoroughly enjoyed the feeling.

As it happened, I got it all turned in three half-days (at

my age, I pull the plug on my work at dinner time). The next time you find yourself with a sore back and tired limbs after a day on the bog, be grateful that you got to spend some time with nature. The crowning glory would be if you were lucky enough to hear the beautiful sound of a lark singing – I’m told the lark is nearly extinct and so far I have certainly not heard her lovely distinctive voice.

Annette’s latest CD is recommended

A friend of mine gave me a present recently – a beautiful CD titled ‘Annette Griffin’s Most Requested Songs’.

As I have written here before, Annette is from down the road in Ballymoe and is head of entertainment in the world renowned Ashford Castle. She is an absolutely fabulous entertainer. The CD features fourteen beautiful songs, and I am thoroughly enjoying listening to it.

One of my friends said this evening that we always tend to praise and admire others while ignoring our own, and in this case, there is no doubt that we have one of the very best talents on our own doorstep. So if you get a chance, listen out for Annette’s music – you will see (or hear) what I mean.

fil the fixture, and so we were awarded the cup.

Everyone in Creggs was terribly disappointed with the cancellation, as it would have been a great occasion. But in my opinion we were very worthy winners of the competition, having drawn one and won eight of our nine games. We duly celebrated the win in our two local pubs, despite the fact that everyone would have preferred to have actually played the final.

On Sunday morning, the presentation of the trophy took place at our new pitch. The large crowd that turned up really appreciated the efforts the players and management put in all year. Thoughts now turn to the upcoming championship, and what will be a very competitive O’Gara Cup next year.

Enjoying the peace and quiet at Knock In recent years, Carol and myself have increased the number of visits we make to Knock. Last Thursday, we found ourselves back again at the Marian Shrine.

This time however, we noticed there was a marked increase in the number of visitors to the little Mayo village.

A few weeks ago when we were there it was a surprise to find that we could more or less park anywhere along the Main Street. But when we arrived on Thursday you wouldn’t fit a fly on the same street.

What’s more, the big car park near the Basilica was more than three-quarters full.

Funnily enough, as we did our usual walk around the four beautiful churches, we remarked on how few people that were to be seen. But a few minutes later, when the mass in the Basilica ended, we realised that was where everyone was. All of a sudden, the place was full of people coming out from the afternoon service.

As I’ve said before, I don’t claim to be the most religious person in the world, but there is something special about the peace and quiet of Knock – at least until the month of August when the crowds really throng to the international shrine. As we walked around, Carol took a huge interest in the amazingly beautiful gardens and flowers, and we met visitors from all over the world, some of whom were staying in Knock for a number of days.

Lourdes, Fatima, and Medjugorje are all

Knock Marian Shrine

shrines of huge international fame, but we have Knock on our own doorstep. So, if you haven’t been there recently, take a few hours out of your busy schedule and pay it a visit. Even if you don’t believe in anything, you will enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the place, and be all the better for your visit.

And finally…

As we all pull every stroke we can to get tickets for the All-Ireland out here in Creggs, the GAA club is selling tickets for a fabulous All-Ireland final weekend package.

There’s two stand tickets, a Saturday night stay in the Gibson Hotel, and €200 spending money up for grabs for the lucky winner. You can get one line for €10, three lines for €20, and eight lines for €50.

The draw takes place at 10 pm on Thursday, July 21st, and you can buy your tickets online at creggsgaa.ie, from any committee member (of whom I am one), or in O’Rourke’s shop.

For a number of years now I have been putting up my Galway flags outside the house, only to take them down again in double-quick time after we went out of the championships.

This year, for some reason, I never put one out at all, and – remarkably – here we are in the All-Ireland football final.

Today I bought a spanking brand new one in Georgie Bannon’s, and as I get ready to fly it, I hope I am not putting a jinx on our lads. I pray they will put the Kingdom to the sword and bring home Sam Maguire. Maybe I’ll pay one more visit to Knock?

‘Till next week, bye for now

13

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople Recovery vehicle seized in south Roscommon

Advertorial

Customers told to switch before bank withdraws

Roscommon Gardaí have seized a recovery vehicle in south Roscommon after it was discovered the driver had been disqualified. The Roscommon Roads Policing Unit was conducting a checkpoint at a location in the south of the county when the vehicle was stopped. The Garda Mobility App showed that the driver had been recently disqualified. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized, with court proceedings to follow.

Two-car collision in Ballaghaderreen

Gardaí in Ballaghaderreen are investigating a two-car collision which took place on Tuesday evening on the Old Dublin Road. No one was injured in the collision but diversions were in place for a period.

Supporters Elena Tierney, James McGahey, Darren Touhy and Megan Banahan pictured at the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final on Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Lough Ree RNLI comes to the aid of stricken vessel Lough Ree RNLI volunteer crews came to the aid of a stricken sail boat last weekend, bringing the number of such missions on the lake to 20 in the first part of 2022.

The crew of the Tara Scougall lifeboat, under helm Stan Bradbury alongside volunteer crew members, Liam Sheringam and Paul Kelly, reached the 28-foot vessel which had run aground on rocks at Beam Island last Saturday evening.

All three people on board were found to be safe and well and following an initial inspection, the boat was towed to safe waters before it continued under its own power.

So far this year, Lough Ree RNLI has as-

sisted more than 50 people on Lough Ree and the River Shannon. As it celebrates its 10th anniversary, the charity has responded to almost 600 calls, assisting upwards of 1,300 people throughout the last decade.

Speaking this week, Lough Ree RNLI Operations Manager, Kevin Ganly, said: “As we move into the busiest part of the holiday season it is important that everybody who uses the lake is well prepared, has informed family and friends of their itinerary and follows the navigation guidance on the lake. As always, the charity’s volunteer crew will be on standby to respond whenever necessary”.

Ulster Bank is continuing to write to its current and deposit account customers on a phased, rolling basis, to give them six months’ notice to choose a new provider, move their balances and transactions and switch their accounts.

Ciaran Coyle, Managing Director of Retail Banking, Ulster Bank said: “We understand that choosing a new banking provider can take time and we want to ensure that customers in vulnerable situations and anyone that requires additional assistance gets the support they require as early in the process as possible. We have been proactively engaging with these customers to ensure they have all the help they need.

“We have scaled up our resourcing of our unit to support customers in vulnerable situations in preparation for the increased demand and have deployed trained staff in each branch for those in need of additional assistance.

“If any customers in vulnerable situations are unsure of their next steps and would like to discuss their needs with us, they can contact us on 1800-656001, lines are open 8 am to 8 pm, 7 days a week, or review our comprehensive customer FAQ on our website www.ulsterbank.ie”.

After Ulster Bank customers receive their first communication (letter/email), they will be reminded at various times over their six-month notice period, through text messages, prompts on Ulster Bank’s mobile app and internet banking as well as follow-up letters, emails and calls.

If at the end of this six-month period a customer has not moved their account, the account will be frozen and within a month a cheque will be issued for the account balance, less any fees, stamp duty, etc. payable.

In need of extra support?

Our Vulnerable Customer Line is open. Call us.

As we close, we recognise some customers may need extra assistance moving and switching their accounts. If you or a loved one need extra financial help or support during this time, please call our dedicated team.

Call 1800 656 001* 8am to 8pm, every day. * Call costs may vary and calls from mobiles may not be free. If you do call us please be patient as we may be experiencing longer than usual call wait times. Alternatively, you can call into any of our branches.

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

14

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

After a chaotic term in office, Boris finally leaves the stage He thought his eccentricity and socalled charisma would allow him to sail through one scandal after another – it worked well for him in the past – but now, the Boris Johnson era has, at last, come to an end. Whew! Perhaps we can finally repair what Micheál Martin describes as our “strained and challenged” relationship with the Brits concerning the post-Brexit Northern Ireland Protocol.

Last week, the laws of gravity finally caught up with the disgraced British PM when his knowledge of sexual misconduct allegations against Tory MP/deputy chief whip Chris Pincher proved to be one scandal too many, essentially leading to his downfall.

For anyone who hasn’t been keeping up, Pincher quit his post in disgrace amid allegations he ‘drunkenly groped two men at a private club’, (other allegations have also emerged). Claims were made that his

boss Boris, despite being aware of these transgressions, rather than doing the right thing and investigating them, instead promoted him; a move which clearly gave power to an alleged abuser.

I’d love to be a fly on ‘Dancing Queen’ Theresa May’s wall when she heard the man who’d helped engineer her own downfall back in 2019 had finally met his Waterloo when, following a raft of resignations from ministerial ranks, critics demanded Johnson quit his role as the country’s leader. Given the way he’d condemned her own Brexit proposals, allegedly using crude terminology such as ‘bog roll Brexit’ likening the process to “polishing a turd”, if I were May, I’d not so much be plunging the knife into Boris’s fizz-up, I’d be gripping that handle and twisting it!

Metaphorically speaking of course…

Even so, while this may be the long

goodbye, (he intends to hang around for a bit), the good news is BoJo, the master of the inconsistent narrative, will soon be no more! Boo hoo, a leader betrayed, nay ousted, in his prime. I’ll bet he’s only waiting on a call from those talented country music folks begging to weave his tale of woe into some chart-toppin’ hit!

Mind you, it hasn’t escaped anyone’s notice how, during his pseudo ‘resignation’ speech, rather than referring to the stream of scandals which have rocked his tenure, Johnson refused to take responsibility for his downfall, and instead haphazardly stitched together an itinerary of pathetic excuses, blaming the “herd instinct” in Westminster for his demise. But sure what else could we expect from a man whose modus operandi has historically been to obfuscate, deny, deflect, omit and mislead?

Banning sale of turf while flying business class? The optics are not good, Eamon!

I know we’re experiencing an ecological crisis, but I have a question. Could it be construed that Environment Minister Eamon Ryan’s daft, sorry draft proposal to restrict the sale of turf, including a ban on newspaper, social media and online advertisements, provide us with clear evidence he is losing the, er, plot?

Only joking!

I didn’t vote for the man who insisted, “We won’t put your granny in prison for burning turf” because while I’m certainly environmentally friendly, I’m no tree-hugging woo-woo stick-waver, (sincere apologies to those who are).

That said, I do feel sorry for Eamon (sometimes) because when it comes to criticism, he

One has to wonder what Johnson’s third wife, public relations expert Carrie Symonds – often (possibly unfairly) dubbed ‘Lady Macbeth’ and ‘Carrie Antoinette’ due to her alleged meddling in government decision-making – thinks about her husband’s dishonour and demotion?

Will the reportedly ‘luxury-loving’ former ‘first lady’ and ‘influential figure’ who once entertained plans to build a ‘£150,000 treehouse, complete with bulletproof glass for her son at Chequers’, (a structure deemed to be more expensive than many British homes), decide to run for office herself? It’s a fair assumption, given she’s been described as being her husband’s ‘de facto chief of staff,’ which roughly means that some (probably jealous misogynists) believe Mrs Johnson may have enjoyed an unauthorised, unelected role in governing the UK without having

the confines of ever being held accountable!

On some level I feel a bit sorry for Carrie; after all, she is married to a mendacious man who has consistently shown a lack of judgement, and who recklessly and flagrantly violated the rules concerning Covid that he himself set out for the country.

Not to mention he’s also a man who thanked “all of my children” – the exact number of which remains unclear – during his resignation speech. To that end, (given his much publicised philandering), as BoJo’s probably, (in my opinion), not a keeper, perhaps it may be timely for Carrie to consider instructing her solicitor to scan the marriage certificate to look for a loophole that’ll set her free! In short love, get out before his musty stench of defeat sticks to you!

What can I say Boris…other than them’s the breaks hon!

May heroic Archie rest in peace

Environment Minister Eamon Ryan

has kind of become the easy mark! However, given his untimely and out-of-touch so-called ‘life-saving’ and ‘workable’ proposals regarding the ban on advertising the sale of turf, he has no-one else to blame but himself for his unpopularity!

While most people agree (me included), that we must meet our climate goals, it cannot be ignored that with inflation rising through the roof, now is definitely not the time for the ‘jolly green giant’ to penalise rural Ireland (especially those with no other method of heating their homes), by banning the commercial sale of turf.

Perhaps next time they’re ‘lording it up’ flying business class, (premium airline seats) to

international state visits, all courtesy of the same taxpayers affected by the turf sale ban, the Grinch, sorry Green party, might use the time to devise more practical and doable solutions to this burning (pardon the pun) issue?

I’m not flight-shaming the Greens, (I am really) but wouldn’t the ‘party which has led the way in climate politics for over 40 years’, be better served if it considered the fact that the emissions of global aviation run to approximately a reported one billion tons of CO2 per year?

Now I’m no scientist, but I’m sure that equates to a significantly higher carbon footprint than burning, oh I don’t know, a bit of turf! The optics are not good, Minister!

I wish I had the words to lighten the agony of beautiful and inspirational angel Archie Naughton’s parents Paula and Padraic and his brothers George and Isaac, but I don’t. Nobody does, because this incredibly brave family is now, quite clearly, going through what I’d imagine to be the most traumatic and painful experience anyone can go through.

They’ve lost their boy, their ‘adored, irreplaceable’ eldest son and ‘much-loved brother’ and all anyone can do at this time is offer them our sincere sympathies and our full support as they navigate through a difficult-to-bear journey of grief.

Archie was a true hero who displayed an incredible lust for life. Indeed it was clear, given the many social media posts I read on the family’s ‘Join Our Boys’ Facebook page, that this young man had a persistent determination to bear and to beat the condition which cruelly robbed him of his young life.

I’d like to join the rest of Roscommon and indeed Ireland in expressing my sincere condolences to the Naughton family. It’s clear your precious boy’s remarkable strength and undeniable fighting spirit has touched so many lives.

May his legacy live on and may he rest in peace.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

Roscommon in mourning as Archie is laid to rest < DAN DOONER

Roscommon town turned orange on Monday morning as a large crowd gathered at the Sacred Heart Church to pay their respects to Archie Naughton (16) who sadly died on Thursday morning last.

Archie had been admitted to hospital in recent weeks due to heart failure.

His funeral mass on Monday heard how he had packed so much into his 16 years and that he was a compassionate teenager who had many talents.

Gifts brought to the altar as symbols of Archie’s life included pictures of his family and friends, a set of drumsticks, and a pair of headphones and schoolbooks, which reflected his love of music and the enjoyable years he spent at Roxboro National School and Roscommon Community College.

Many members of the congregation donned the bright orange t-shirts that have become synonymous with the Join Our Boys Trust, which was established to assist the Naughton family following the devastating diagnoses of Archie and his 12-year-old twin brothers, George and Isaac.

A large number of Archie’s school friends,

teammates from various sporting clubs and supporters also gathered outside to say their final goodbyes.

Chief celebrant Fr. Sean Neylon said Archie was talented and gifted in many areas and paid tribute to the teenager’s compassion in spite of his health struggles.

In her moving eulogy, Archie’s mum Paula Naughton said the void his death had caused was “deep and dark and catastrophic”. She said that there had never been a dull moment whenever he was around and paid tribute to his “extraordinary strength”.

“One would imagine that a child given such a cruel diagnosis might have reduced opportunities in life…well, not Archie. He had other ideas,” she said.

“Not only did he find the extraordinary strength and determination to fight Duchenne…he actually used the situation he found himself in to show us lesser mortals how to live life to the full.

“Archie was the most contented person we have ever known. If things were not going to plan and I was to ask him how he felt, he always said ‘Look mumma, that’s life, I guess this is the way it’s meant to be. Let’s not worry about it, life is too

short, and things could always be worse”.

Paula told the congregation how everyone loved Archie and that he was wise beyond his years. She called on those to assist Join Our Boys in fulfilling Archie’s dying wish of finding a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

“Archie, wherever you are, I hope you can hear this. We are all so privileged you were ours and we will never ever forget you. Thank you for everything darling, rest well and may God continue to bless you,” she said.

Archie’s dad Padraic said Archie’s life posed a powerful question: “Isn’t it better to share the laughter and tears, the joy and sorrow, the light and darkness, the hope and disappointment of everyone around us, rather than be restricted and hemmed in by the small, narrow world of one?”

A number of videos were played for mourners, showing Archie with his family and siblings. The final recording was of Archie singing along to the lyrics of Dermot Kennedy’s song ‘Better Days’.

Archie was laid to rest in St. Coman’s Cemetery following a funeral procession through Roscommon town, led by Paula, Padraic, Archie Naughton, R.I.P. George and Isaac. May he rest in peace.

‘Our hearts are smashed into millions of pieces’ < DAN DOONER

There was heartbreak all across Roscommon and indeed further afield on Thursday last following the untimely death of brave, young Archie Naughton (16) at the Mater Hospital in Dublin.

Eldest son of Padraic and Paula Naughton, Archie along with his two brothers, George and Isaac, was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in 2012.

Archie displayed tremendous courage following his diagnosis and was an inspiration not just to his own family, but also to people across Roscommon, the entire country and internationally.

The orange-clad ‘Team Archie’ became a common sight on the Dublin streets each autumn, completing a number of Dublin City Marathons with Archie as team leader, and making many friends along the way.

Posting on Facebook on Thursday

afternoon last, Archie’s mum Paula wrote: “As parents, our only concern ever is to protect our children. However, sometimes things happen that you have absolutely no control over.

Duchenne is one such thing.

“Our beautiful, heroic son Archie John has died and our hearts are smashed into millions of pieces. We shall never recover.

“We already miss his presence, his warmth, his love, his humour, his tenacity and his infectious, beautiful

smile. The void he has left is vast and dark and catastrophic.

“Archie did not want to leave us and he fought and fought to stay here. He had so many dreams and plans for the future. Duchenne has robbed him of so, so much.

“Forever in our hearts and minds and forever 16-years-old. Thank you most sincerely Archie, for showing us how to live life to the full and for never, ever giving up. We will love you forever Archie and we are so, so proud of you”.

Archie Naughton will be very sadly missed by his heartbroken family, his grandmother Nana Kerr, his uncles, aunts, cousins, neighbours, school mates, his many good friends and by all those who supported him throughout his illness.

Archie was laid to rest in St. Coman’s Cemetery, Roscommon town following funeral mass at the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Monday morning. May his brave and gentle soul rest in peace.

‘A courageous young man with a smile on his face’ A tribute to a friend Elliot Grealy

I first met Archie Naughton at the age of four and three-quarters when starting Junior Infants in Roxboro NS. Due to the pair of us being born close to Christmas, the month of December was action-packed, busy with opening presents and just having fun.

Archie’s birthday parties always stood out from the rest. This was due to his mother Paula having a direct line to Santa Claus, meaning there would always be extra joy when he’d make an appearance! Paula explained that this only happened to very special children like us!

Along with his love for music and farming, Archie was very fond of his sport. He could talk for hours about it. He was a big Chelsea supporter and discussed every moment of action on the Monday morning when he’d arrive into school!

He also had a great interest in rugby. He played for his local club, Creggs, and together we would often analyse the performances of Connacht and Ireland – as if we were pundits on TV! Archie took up his position in goals every lunchtime and even though he had great fun commanding his net, he wasn’t afraid to give out orders to his teammates to try and win the match.

Archie fought incredibly hard to stay on his own two feet. When he got his wheelchair, I have

memories of us laughing and being out of breath pushing him up the hill to the top of the pitch, where he would get out and continue his role in goals. Archie often fell down but he always got himself up again, such was his fighting spirit.

Although he was challenged every day, Archie was never one to complain, the only exception being when his defenders weren’t doing their job. Also, just like the rest of us, he wasn’t too fond of the rain! But in secondary school Archie would brave the rain and make his daily pilgrimage with the rest of us to Londis or McNeill’s for a nice roll at lunchtime.

While we all fought back tears at his funeral mass on Monday morning, and Fr. Sean Neylon spoke about the footprint Archie had left behind, I couldn’t help but smile and think perhaps the tyre marks were more appropriate as Archie was famous for his wheelies and burnouts!

Archie would not want me to say all this without mentioning his wonderful parents, Paula and Padraic. While behind the scenes they worked so incredibly hard to help Archie, George and Isaac and campaign for all those affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, they were always full of fun, laughter and untold kindness. I even once said to my parents that if anything happened to them I’d like to live with Paula and Padraic!

Like us all, Archie had dreams and plans. He never dwelt on his illness and to us he was just one of the lads. There is no greater memory than

The late Archie Naughton pictured at the Team Archie Dublin Marathon launch in Gleeson’s in 2018 with Tonya Hand, Mary Gleeson, his mum Paula, Cáit Gleeson and Sinéad Gannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

the sound of a friend’s laugh. That’s how I will remember Archie, with a smile on his face, that and his great sense of humour. He was a courageous young man who taught me to live for today.

Archie always seemed to appreciate the little things and was always grateful for all he had in his life, just as I am so grateful to have had the pleasure of knowing him.

May he rest in peace.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

No defence: It’s long past time to pay our soldiers properly “Soldier by trade – Gunner by profession” – that was always the way Noel O’Callaghan introduced himself when we met at the army barracks in Mullingar, County Westmeath or indeed the Custume Barracks in Athlone or the Connolly Barracks in Longford.

Noel was one of approximately 2000 hardy men and women from this region who have given most of their lives to the service of the State over the last 50 years – yet have been treated rather appallingly in every way. That includes all the way up to a very belated announcement this week of some sort of a decent package of measures aimed at trying to address the problematic manner in which we treat our loyal and hard-working Defence Forces in this country.

Noel has always been passionate about the cause – even since he left the service a number of years ago after Mullingar Barracks was closed down. My lasting memory of that historic day when the gates of Columb Barracks closed is of Noel standing up proudly with that unmistakable handlebars-style moustache in his sparkling uniform in the middle of a big army jeep coming out onto the road and saluting family and friends for the last time before the military moved lock, stock and barrel over to Athlone.

Some 183 personnel from Columb Barracks were moved to Custume Barracks, Athlone. Altogether, 170 military personnel and 13 civilian employees are attached to the 4th Field Artillery Regiment in Mullingar, and even though the regiment was always an element of the Athlone-based 4th Western Brigade, the move was supposed to allow for greater flexibility in the training and deployment of the entire Western Brigade.

Blow to economy No jobs were lost due to the closure of the barracks on that day, but the reality is that the town of Mullingar lost out heavily in daily direct and indirect spending – the same way Longford and many others had before. Personnel from Mullingar were able to avail of free transport to Athlone and got compensation and change of station allowance, but the daily spend for food and supplies for the barracks was lost to the trade of the town – and so too much of the support network that goes with an army barracks.

This was a sad and shocking time for the men and women from Roscommon, Longford, Westmeath and all the neighbouring counties who saw their lives turned upside down.

Further barracks’ across the country – including Cavan, Clonmel and Castlebar – closed along with Mullingar. The announcement prompted local Junior Minister Willie Penrose to resign the party whip and lose his cabinet seat. Willie was a man of great principle and had promised to fight to keep the Mullingar Barracks open

the army members be asked to do the same job as others who were being paid a much higher pay scale?

Noel O’Callaghan was first out of the traps last week when the issue of a proper pay increase came up for discussion. “Unless pay, allowances, contracts, pensions and work time directive are addressed our Defence Forces have no chance of either retention or recruitment” he said – pointing out that while 374,000 euro had been spent on recruitment in one year, the result was 20% less recruitment than in the previous 12 months!

The Cabinet was under severe pressure to act.

Earlier this week they agreed to increase Defence Forces’ spending to €1.5 billion by 2028.

The hike in the budget will see allowances for the lowest ranks increase by €89 per week – or €5,000 per year – and the recommendation is that 2,000 more people should be added to the permanent Defence Forces. Defence Minster Simon Coveney claims that because we are 1,000 behind where we should be today, that effectively means adding an extra 3,000 people.

That’s around a 35% increase.

Increased allowances

from the day he was elected to office, so when he failed in that task, he did the honourable thing and resigned.

I remember meeting Rebecca O’Callaghan, daughter of Noel O’Callaghan, who was then the Regimental Sergeant Major in Columb

“

The target remains that an additional 2,000 personnel comprising both civil and military roles will also have to be recruited as part of the recommendation, but unless the bottom line on pay and allowances goes up, Noel O’Callaghan and his former colleagues say there will be no 2000 extra soldiers taken on.

Barracks, and due back from a tour of duty in the Lebanon at the time of the closure announcement. She was bitterly disappointed at the manner in which the news of the barracks’ closure was broken to both the soldiers and their families.

“We heard it here first…we had to ring Dad in the Lebanon to tell him,” she told me. “We know the decision won’t be reversed but we want to make some noise and to see if there is anything else we can do for the barracks”.

Pay packets As if barracks’ closures weren’t enough of a negative, the way in which soldiers were treated in the following few years was even worse.

Those serving in the lower ranks are not well paid at all and there has been a long and heated campaign to try and get some movement on this issue. That battle got a bit of a boost in the last few weeks when Eamon Ryan cast the dye and suggested that soldiers would be brought into Dublin Airport to try and help solve the chaos there. There was a backlash of sorts as most people asked the very fair question – why should

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

The Minister asked the Government to prioritise money for military radar equipment, including primary radar – with a potential cost of €200 million – but people like Noel O’Callaghan still say it’s the pensions and contracts of the soldiers that require most attention – especially as inflation hits everyone.

The improvements announced this week involve defence spending of more than €8bn between now and the end of 2028 and would represent the largest investment in defence in the history of the State, but service allowances to all those at the rank of private, three-star and able seaman personnel are the key payments that will be awaited.

The target remains that an additional 2,000 personnel comprising both civil and military roles will also have to be recruited as part of the recommendation, but unless the bottom line on pay and allowances goes up, Noel O’Callaghan and his former colleagues say there will be no 2000 extra soldiers taken on.

The time for lip service to the army is over.

Whenever this country is in trouble, it seems to me they are first to be called out. Whether it’s the snow, the storms, or the chaos at Dublin Airport, they are simply dragged away from their other duties and moved into the streets.

I cannot think of any other profession in the public service who would agree to this.

Our part of the country has a proud record of service to the State through the Defence Forces.

They work hard and long hours in conditions which are not only difficult but also dangerous, and it is high time their take-home pay recognised that.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople newsbriefs Learn to support nature with Kilteevan Tidy Towns Kilteevan Tidy Towns is committed to supporting nature and biodiversity, and they are encouraging others to get involved too. With the support of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Kiteevan Tidy Towns is hosting free biodiversity events on Saturday, July 16th, and Saturday, July 23rd. The events will run from 10 am to 1 pm. Meeting at Cloonlarge Loop Car Park.

The events aim to help participants learn how to become actively involved in recording wildlife and sharing the details, be it in your own garden, your neighbourhood or in the wild.

Michael Bell of Nature Learn will help participants get started with learning about birds, insects, butterflies, moths and more. So come along to the event to walk, talk and learn.

Participants are encouraged to wear walking shoes and bring water if they wish. No prior knowledge is necessary.

Athleague Active Age Group returns Athleague Active Age Group are delighted to announce that we will be returning to meeting in-person on Monday, July 18th, at 7 pm in the Athleague Community Centre. All members are welcomed back, and new members are very welcome to join.

Genealogy talk at Castlerea Library

Genealogist Martin Curley will be giving a genealogy talk in Castlerea Library at 7 pm on Tuesday, July 26th. The talk is entitled ‘Reconnecting the Lost Generation of Black 47 – Resources for tracing your family in the Roscommon Diaspora’.

Martin has extensive experience of genealogical research and will facilitate and explore the various websites and resources that are available to anybody interested in researching their family tree.

You will get research advice which will save you time and effort, as well as a printed list of available websites. Advice will be given on DNA and accessing the newly released records from the National Archives.

Admission is free, so come along on the day to learn more about your genealogical history.

Expansion approved for Monksland childcare provider

A Roscommon childcare provider has been granted planning permission to extend its facility in Monksland.

Grovelands Childcare was granted permission by Roscommon County Council to construct a two-storey extension at its existing premises at Corran Riada, Monksand subject to three conditions. The facility, which is located on a large site, is described as “state-of-the-art”.

Knockcroghery group’s day out at Moynalty Threshing Festival

Knockcroghery Social group are organising a day out to Moynalty Steam Threshing Festival on Sunday, August 14th.

Coach will depart Knockcroghery Community Centre at 9 am, picking up at Hannon’s Hotel and Casey’s in Roscommon.

Price includes return coach journey, brunch on route, admission ticket to the Threshing Festival, Vintage Museum, all entertainment on the field, and a meal in Mullingar on the way home. This year, Moynalty hosts the 60th anniversary of the Mark 1 Cortina. There will also be music and dancing on the field featuring Matt Leavy, Nathan Carter and other artists.

People will be dropped off at the designated stops on the way home.

We would be delighted if you could join us for a great day out.

For reservations/any other information please contact 0876454224 or 086-1708667. Early booking is advised as places are limited.

Meeting on Taghboy Cemetery maintenance

A meeting will be held to discuss the future funding and maintenance of Taghboy Cemetery, taking place on Wednesday, July 20th, at 9 pm in Ballyforan Hall.

All those with relatives interred in the cemetery are invited to attend.

Fundraisers for RSPCA

A number of fundraising events are taking place across the community in the coming weeks in aid of the Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA).

A car boot sale will take place on Saturday, July 16th, at Casey’s in Roscommon Town (F42 RY88), and on July 16th and 17th, the RSPCA will hold their annual church gate collection at Clooneycolgan, Cloverhill, Brusna, and Derrinacartha churches. As always, your support is greatly appreciated.

Boyle author’s new book to be launched next Tuesday

Eveni gBar&BistroMenu 3 -9

The latest book by local author, John Mulligan, has been described as “a timely satire” set in the near future which is “written with devilish humour and wit”.

Publishers, Monument Media, confirmed that the novel – ‘Black Friday 13’ – will be released in September. The book will be launched in Boyle on Tuesday, July 19th next (see details below).

The book is set in 2030. A new pandemic is sweeping across America but the black population seems to have natural immunity to the virus. Slow-witted President Donald Daniels has ordered his team to urgently find a new vaccine, one that can be secretly

added to the water supply to overcome a growing anti-vaccine sentiment.

In Boyle, Co. Roscommon, a small laboratory develops a vaccine, but one of the scientists has concerns about its remote potential to turn white-skinned people black. The concerns are ignored in the rush to get the product to market.

Meanwhile, Russian and American spies converge on Boyle to get their hands on the formula but the canny locals aren’t easily fooled.

In Russia, President Zhadnyy has stopped making public appearances and President Daniels

has his suspicions.

John Mulligan is a multiple award-winning author, journalist, and newspaper columnist. His books include Dancing on the Waves (Collins Press), Following in the Footsteps of the Four Famous Flannerys, and No Place in the Sun, as well as The Book (written as ‘A Watcher’). He also writes a weekly column for the Roscommon Herald.

‘Black Friday 13’ will be formally launched by musician Charlie McGettigan during the Boyle Arts Festival. The launch will take place at 4 pm on Tuesday, July 19th at King House Tea Rooms.

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races were Finian Reynolds, Martin Skelly, Hilary, Eimear and Andrew Reynolds and Leo Cox. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

It wasn’t a dream – Patrick Duffy really did visit Kilmovee!

Dallas star Patrick Duffy has afternoon tea with his relations during his visit to Kilmovee.

Photo: Mick McCormack

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

David Mitchell (British comedian and actor, turns 48 Jane Lynch on Thursday) (American actress/ comedian, celebrates her 62nd birthday on Thursday)

Conor McGregor (Irish mixed martial artist, will be 34 on Thursday)

“

David Hasselhoff (American actor, celebrates his 70th birthday on Sunday)

The things people say…

“I want you to know how sad I am to be giving up the best job in the world, but them’s the breaks” -Boris Johnson announces his intention to quit as UK Prime Minister

For updates, check our social channels

American actor Patrick Duffy, best known for his role in the long-running US soap opera Dallas, went back to his roots last week when he popped in to Kilmovee while tracing his Irish ancestry.

Patrick (73), who played Bobby Ewing in the hit TV series, was accompanied in the County Mayo village – which is close to Ballaghaderreen, on the Roscommon/Mayo border – by his partner and Happy Days actress, Linda Purl.

A film crew was also in tow as Patrick and Linda were filming the pilot episode of a new TV series,

which is supported by Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland.

The American actors were greeted by a large welcoming party in Kilmovee on Thursday afternoon, where Mr. Duffy visited the Duffy ancestral home and met with relatives from his great-grandfather’s side. Patrick’s great-grandfather emigrated in search of a better life in the 1800s.

“It seems that just about everybody around here carries the surname Duffy,” Duffy quipped, according to a report in the Irish Times.

Patrick Duffy, Linda Purl, Shauna Golding, Conor and Ronan Duffy in Kilmovee. Photo: Mick McCormack

Dallas star Patrick Duffy meets his cousins Kathleen and Liam Duffy during his visit to Kilmovee.

Photo: Mick McCormack Dallas star Patrick Duffy, Linda Purl and Fr. Joseph Gavigan in Kilmovee.

Photo: Mick McCormack

Dallas star Patrick Duffy has afternoon tea with his relations during his visit to Kilmovee.

Photo: Mick McCormack

It’s been a GOOD week for…

The Ireland rugby team, management and supporters, after the tourists became the first Irish team ever to defeat New Zealand on their home soil, Ireland’s victory over the All Blacks in Saturday’s second test setting up a mouth-watering series finale this weekend Lethal Damien Comer and his Galway teammates, with Damien’s brilliant finishing (he scored 2-2 from play) a key factor in the Connacht champions’ win over Derry in Saturday’s All-Ireland Senior Football semi-final

Patrick Duffy and his partner Linda Purl pictured in the Duffy ancestral home in Kilmovee last week.

Long-suffering summer weather watchers, as warm sunshine finally broke out across the country!

Sean O’Shea and his teammates, after Sean showed great nerve to convert the long-range free that gave Kerry victory in the closing seconds of normal time in Sunday’s thrilling All-Ireland Senior Football semi-final against Dublin

It’s been a BAD week for…

Long-time regular of this column Boris Johnson, who finally had to signal an end to his controversial and unconventional

reign as UK Prime Minister after dozens of members of his own party rebelled against him, forcing the exit of the man who ‘got Brexit done’ Taoiseach and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin, who was confronted with a motion of no confidence in his government…and a backbench revolt within his own party Dublin Airport’s reputation, amidst more reports of passengers being distraught over very personal items becoming ‘lost luggage’ Controversial Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone, after it emerged that the 91-year-old will face charges of fraud over an alleged failure to declare €473m of overseas assets to the UK government

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

Ros Go Run has ran its last race!

The U-13 Roscommon chess team and coach (Roscommon/Kilteevan) The Elphin draughts team and coach pictured with their silver medals following pictured with their gold medals following their Connacht title success in Community Games. their success at the Connacht Community Games competition.

Next move: Local chess and draughts teams prepare for national finals Young Roscommon competitors enjoyed great success in the Community Games Connacht Finals for Chess and Draughts, which took place in ATU Sligo on July 2nd, with three teams making it to the national stage of the competition.

The U-13 Roscommon chess

team (Roscommon/Kilteevan) played against Sligo, and were victorious in all five of their games, making them Connacht champions and securing their place in the national finals. The U-16 Roscommon chess team (Ballinameen/ Breedogue) played well against Sligo but came second in the end.

There was no competition on the day for the U-10 Roscommon chess team (Roscommon/Kilteevan), who will automatically progress to the national final.

In draughts, the U-14 and U-16 Roscommon teams (Ballinameen/ Breedogue and Elphin respectively) played very well, ultimately

placing second. The U-10 Elphin draughts team will be progressing to the national final.

The Community Games National Finals for Chess and Draughts will take place on August 27th and 28th at Carlow Arts Centre. Well done and best of luck to all Roscommon teams.

Fundraiser at Carrick Golf Club in aid of the Irish Cancer Society A fundraiser for the Irish Cancer Society in association with Roscommon Golf Society and Carrickon-Shannon Golf Club will take place in Carrick on Friday, July 22nd.

The event will include the Society Captain’s outing in the form of an 18-hole competition, followed by the presentation of prizes at the clubhouse in Carrick as well as a raffle and auction in aid of Irish Cancer Society.

Almost 45,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in Ireland each year.

Members of both our golf organisations are, unfortunately, numbered among that list.

Incidence of cancer in Ireland is growing.

However, more people are surviving cancer than ever before. Much of this is down to generous support from you, the Irish public, who have enabled the Irish Cancer Society to invest circa €27 million in research projects and

initiatives since 2010.

The fundraiser at Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club is aimed at adding further support to that magnificent work. The simple reality is that the research carried out by the Irish Cancer Society saves thousands of lives each year. By supporting events like this you have, and will continue to, played a significant part in that work.

Roscommon Golf Society and Carrick Golf Club appeals to people across Leitrim, Roscommon and further afield, to support this event.

To support this fundraiser, you can play in the Captain’s Outing as a member of visitor (tee times available from 2 pm on Thursday, 21st and 11.30 am on Friday 22nd).

You can also attend or donate an item to the auction or buy a ticket for the raffle, both of which take place in the clubhouse at approximately 6 pm.

A fundraiser for the Irish Cancer Society in association with Roscommon Golf Society and Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club will take place in Carrick on Friday, July 22nd. Pictured are Carrick-on-Shannon Men’s Captain Owen Gibney, Lady Captain Deirdre McGettrick and Roscommon Golf Society Captain Tommie Kenoy.

If you wish to attend, participate or contribute in any way please contact any of the following: Golf Society Captain

Tommie Kenoy at 0877669017 or tkenoy@ gmail.com; Golf Club Captain Owen Gibney at 087-2971000

omeajgibney@gmail.com, or Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club at 071-9667015 or carrickgolf18@ gmail.com.

Following a recent committee meeting of ‘Ros Go Run’, it has been reluctantly decided that due to cost, manpower, and competition issues, the event will not continue.

Over its six-year run, up until Covid hit in 2020, the event has raised almost €23,000 for MS Ireland, Éire Óg GAA Club and Lisacul Community Development, which is a great success for any local area. The committee members are extremely appreciative of all who helped in any way to make it the success it was and to raise the much-needed funds, which were used locally by all three organisations.

The committee would like to thank their sponsors for the continued support over the years, as the event couldn’t have happened without their help. The committee would also like to give thanks to the local community members and businesses that donated food for refreshments on the day and all the stewards, lead drivers, and local people who came out to support the runners along the route.

Finally, the committee wish to thank Lisacul Community Development CLG Community Employment Scheme, the Gardaí, the Red Cross Ambulance service, and all who ran the race over the six years.

The remaining funds held by the committee for future races will be distributed between Donnacha’s Story and MS Roscommon before the account is closed.

Brideswell Pattern Festival celebration

Brideswell Pattern Festival are pleased to welcome the Pattern Mass back to Brideswell village. The Mass, taking place at 12.30 pm on July 31st, will be concelebrated

by Bishop Kevin Doran.

Following Mass, the Brideswell National School Parents Association has invited the public to the marquee for tea, coffee, and cake. There will be free kids’ entertainment and a kids’ tractor run (bring your own), as well as marquee entertainment and our first Parish Fittest Family competition.

All are welcome to attend, so come along on the day to join in the fun. For more information, find Brideswell Pattern Festival on Facebook.

Gospel Reflection Sunday 17 July 2022 God wants to dwell with each of us personally, intimately – as the mysterious guests once visited Abraham’s tent, as Jesus once entered the home of Mary and Martha.

By his hospitality in this week’s First Reading, Abraham shows us how we are to welcome the Lord into our lives. His selfless service of his divine guests (see Hebrews 13:1) stands in contrast to the portrait of Martha drawn in this week’s Gospel.

Where Abraham is concerned only for the well-being of his guests, Martha speaks only of herself – ”Do you not care that my sister has left me by myself…? Tell her to help me”. Jesus’ gentle rebuke reminds us that we risk missing the divine in the mundane, that we can fall into the trap of believing that God somehow needs to be served by human hands (see Acts 17:25).

Our Lord comes to us not to be served but to serve (see Matthew 20:28). He gave His life that we might know the one thing we need, the “better part,” which is life in the fellowship of God. Jesus is the true Son promised today by Abraham’s visitors (see Matthew 1:1). In Him, God has made an everlasting covenant for all time; He has made us blessed descendants of Abraham (see Genesis 17:19, 21; Romans 4:16–17, 19–21).

The Church now offers us this covenant, bringing to completion the word of God, the promise of His plan of salvation, what Paul calls “the mystery hidden for ages.”

As once He came to Abraham, Martha, and Mary, Christ now comes to each of us in Word and Sacrament. As we sing in this week’s Psalm: He will make His dwelling with those who keep His Word and practice justice (see also John 14:23).

If we do these things, we will not be anxious or disturbed.

We will not have our Lord taken from us. We will wait on the Lord, Who told Abraham and Who tells each of us: “I will surely return to you”.

-Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon)

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

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The value of casual interactions amid post-Covid anxiety Let’s talk about ... casual Interactions post-Covid (A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy Between living half in Galway, half in Roscommon and (still) not having a driving license, I end up spending a considerable amount of my time on the bus (I probably spend a considerable amount of money on it too but I really don’t fancy doing those maths).

For all that time spent though, I’ve not yet grown to dislike the journey. After all, the trek only takes about an hour and a half, so it’s easily enough time to kill with a podcast, a book, or – as is usually the case, if I’m being honest – endless social media scrolling.

I lucked out in that the Bus4U service between Galway and Roscommon leaves me just a few minutes from my accommodation, plus the fares are cheap and the drivers are friendly, so despite the amount of time lost to travelling each week, there really isn’t much to complain about.

I’ve been taking the same Bus4U service since I started

college in NUIG in 2019 – even through some of the more restriction-heavy eras of pandemic when there were still a few in-person college commitments to make – and it’s been strange to see the steady growth in numbers over the past few months as things have been opening up more and more. The jampacked buses leaving the city on a Friday, or coming into a city on a day like last May’s Connacht final, bear a stark contrast to the services that were running with just a handful of people during more restrictive Covid times.

The decline in numbers was something so instant at the time that it was impossible not to notice, but less noticeable has been the gradual increase in numbers over the past few months. Like anything I suppose, when things happen over time, they’re harder to pick up on. That is, after all, the same reason why we were all caught off-guard when re-

strictions eased and we all suddenly realised that somehow, months of not talking to anyone had made talking to people difficult. Truly a shocker.

After all, in the past two years, most of us saw considerable chunks of time go by without coming into contact with any new people. We were all chained to our homes for months, and even after that, we spend a great deal of time socialising in pods with the same limited group of people. We became comfortable with only interacting with a select few people, frankly because it was our only option. But now, as everything returns, we’re all faced with the task of brushing up on our pandemic-induced social rustiness.

On one of my million bus journeys last week, an older man I’d spoken to at the bus stop decided to take the seat beside me so we could continue our chat on the journey. Whether it was the lingering post-Covid shock of someone sitting right beside me on the bus when there’s other seats available, or the lingering post-Covid dread of having to make conversation with a stranger, it caught me a bit off guard.

But as it happens, I ended up spending quite a pleasant journey hearing about the man’s gardening and chatting about what course I was doing in college.

Post-Covid anxieties, in much the same way of every other

anxiety, are at their worst in your head. Simple things like having a conversation with a stranger seems so daunting to many more of us now than it did pre-pandemic, but the social stakes haven’t changed, we’ve just gone too long without practice. Now it’s a source of anxiety for many, and it’s obvious the disservice it’s done to us. The disservice it’s done to our collective mental health.

There really is a surprising amount of value to be found in our casual everyday interactions, in having a pleasant

conversation on the bus with a stranger, getting talking to someone in the pub, etc. It’s something we all went without during restrictions, and try as we might have, all the Zoom social events in the world were never really going to replace that.

We ought to challenge ourselves to overcome our postCovid anxieties and regain the value that’s found in simple things like being able to ask about the shopkeeper’s day instead of trying to get in and out of the shop as quickly as

possible to lower the risk of exposure. Meeting and conversing with new people had (and for many, still has) an anxiety around it post-Covid that didn’t exist before. But sometimes, the very things our post-Covid anxiety is making us dread are things that we didn’t even realise we’ve been missing.

All that said, I don’t know if I hope to spend every one of my bus journeys in conversation with a stranger from now on – sometimes an hour and a half of endless social media scrolling is just what is needed.

St Mary’s students say ‘Oui’ to French module Third to sixth class pupils at St. Mary’s Primary School, Strokestown participated in the French Modern Languages Sampler Module recently.

The pupils enjoyed the experience and were so enthusiastic it wasn’t long before they were greeting each other in French!

The ‘Say Yes to Languages’ Primary Sampler Module is funded by the Department of Education and is seen as a wonderful way to raise awareness of the range of languages used in the community including Irish Sign Language.

The module provides opportunities among the school community to celebrate languages and cultures and it supports the implementation of

Languages Connect, Ireland’s Strategy for Foreign Languages in Education 2017-2026.

St. Mary’s Primary School French teacher, Caitriona Brehony, said that children are very receptive to learning languages at a young age.

“This language module generates awareness and opens children’s minds to the importance of learning languages as a life skill for further education, career and travel opportunities,” she said.

“The languages module also enhanced our participation in the Blue Star programme which fosters an understanding of the European Union and European countries and cultures. Well done to all involved!”

Fifth and Sixth class girls from St. Mary’s Primary School, Strokestown saying ‘Yes’ to languages.

Third and Fourth class girls from St. Mary’s Primary School, Strokestown enjoyed their French classes in recent weeks.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NewsPeople

Letters to the Editor

Send your letters to: Abbey Street, Roscommon Town.

Fax: (090) 66 34303 or email: news@roscommonpeople.ie

I’m pro-life – but I will not condemn, punish, shame or criminalise any woman Our columnist MIRIAM KERINS responds to letters in last week’s Roscommon People which took her to task over her column of 1/7/22 last…

80,000 readers a week, three complaints…I’ll take that; especially as the item in my column which was headlined ‘No woman should ever be forced to submit her body to a pregnancy she’s unable to carry’ focused on one of the most intense and controversial subjects of our time; i.e. abortion.

However, while I’ve been congratulated by many for being “brave” and “fearless” in addressing this highly emotive topic – and I’ve received mes-

sages of thanks for raising the issue – the fact remains I’ve illicited the ire of three readers/correspondents, namely Zoe McDermott, Sinéad Tracey and Siobhan Nic Cathail.

Being honest with you ladies, I did consider leaving this topic alone, but, as readers raised queries around the Roe versus Wade ruling, and, not being one to allow the fear of another’s reaction prevent me from responding, I dived right in.

Zoe, you say you “had to laugh” at aspects of my column; that’s unfortunate, because abortion is no laughing matter. Let me clarify my belief that all sentient beings – both animal and human – deserve to be loved, respected and protected, extends to the unborn, who is, undeniably, a human being. To be abundantly clear Zoe, I’m pro-life, always have been, and always will be, because not only do I hold all life to be sacred, I’m also someone who assigns value to that life at all stages.

Furthermore, your suggestion that I “cool” my “intemperate language

against pro-life folk” will be disregarded. Why? Because my ‘intemperate language’ was never directed at ‘pro-life folk’, it was aimed at those anti-choice individuals who pit the lives of women against the lives of their children.

Even as I’m a pro-life advocate, I’ve also got the smarts to know that as people, (and their very personal situations), can be complicated, I don’t believe in casting any woman as either a villain or a heroine for making the heartbreaking decision to terminate her pregnancy.

Why? Because I haven’t walked in her shoes. It’s none of my business, and this isn’t about me (or you), it’s about another woman’s life-altering predicament.

I’m no medical professional, but, as a compassionate human being, I believe failing to provide access to safe, legal abortions can potentially cause harm.

Therefore, (to address your issue Sinéad), being pro-life and pro-choice, I’ve offered support and provided many solution-based alternatives to women, (including arranging counsel-

ling), who’ve been faced with making the distressing and final choice of undergoing an abortion. Some, thankfully, chose to continue with their pregnancies; some sadly didn’t. As to those who made the choice to proceed with terminations, as I believed they needed to feel secure in their decision-making capacity, (irrespective of my own feelings of devastation), rather than abandon them, or condemn them in the aftermath, I continued to provide my support and assistance. Why? Because it was their right, (not yours, and not mine), to make autonomous decisions concerning their own bodies.

Siobhan, you say I’m “clearly a woman of compassion”. Thank you. However, you question if my ‘compassion’ extends to the “63 million pre-born children whose lives were lost to abortion in the USA since that decision”.

Not only does my compassion and my empathy extend to these beautiful, innocent unborn souls Siobhan, it also extends to the wonderful contributions they may have provided to society, had

they only been given that chance. It also extends to the children they themselves never got to bring into this world, and to the grandchildren they never got to enjoy and spoil.

I thank you for your letters dear ladies, but I feel you may have reacted to one or two sentences rather than grasping the point of my entire column. Deep in my heart, I will never, ever come to terms with ending the life of an unborn infant. However, I steadfastly refuse to condemn, punish, shame or criminalise any woman who’s forced (for whatever purpose) into making that heart-shredding, traumatic choice to end a pregnancy she’s unable to carry. The key word here is ‘unable,’ not ‘unwilling’.

Terminating the life of an unborn is a life-altering decision I believe not only holds major consequences for that young girl/woman, it will follow her for the rest of her days; and I’m neither heartless nor selfish enough to add to her trauma by casting my judgement upon her.

Abortion: More views from Roscommon People readers the Editor of the Roscommon People for his unbiased approach to readers’ letters and that he will continue to accept advertisements such as those of ‘Friends for Life’, whose only agenda is to promote the basic right to life of the unborn child and to support all mothers who find themselves in crisis pregnancies.

Yours sincerely, Marian McDermott

Monksland, Athlone Dear Editor, Emmet King (Roscommon People, July 8th) takes umbrage with a benign advertisement sponsored

by Friends for Life and carried by the Roscommon People (July 1st).

The ad quotes words taken from the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which the letter writer deems toxic, hurtful, and loaded with judgement, and feels such ads should be banned from newspapers.

Well Mr King, thankfully we live in a democratic society which allows diverse viewpoints, and if certain viewpoints make you uncomfortable – too bad.

Yours sincerely, Jamie Doyle Boyle, Co Roscommon Dear Editor, I say to Emmet King (Letters page, Roscommon People 8/7/22) thank God for the generosity of ‘Friends for Life’ who, at their own expense and for no gain, other than to promote the basic right to life of the unborn child, have obviously called to action a response from anti-life readers.

What Emmet refers to as “necessary reproductive health services” is, to put it another way, one and the same as the deliberate termination of a human pregnancy, aka ‘abortion’. This in effect stops the beating of a very unique and precious human heart, which had started to beat at approxi-

mately 18 days’ gestation. Bearing in mind that it takes approximately 30 days from conception for a woman to discover that she’s pregnant, her baby’s heart is already beating and its respiratory system is developing.

Nobody is judging the 53 women who accessed abortion services in Roscommon in 2020, but instead wish to instil in those who find themselves in a crisis pregnancy that there is an alternative to abortion. There are wonderful pro-mother and pro-baby organisations like Gianna Care available in Ireland who offer practical and moral

support to a mother both before and after pregnancy. The service is totally free of charge. These organisations receive no funding whatsoever from the Government, unlike those who provide abortion services.

Sadly, the babies whose lives were ended will never have the pleasure of enjoying ‘People Watching’ or ‘Unique Take on Life’. Has Emmet considered how ‘hurtful’ and ‘damaging’ abortion is to an unborn child, who receives no pain relief for this fatal procedure?

Finally, may I take this opportunity to thank

Tully, Ballygar, Co Galway Dear Editor, In his letter to the Roscommon People on July 8th, referring to the advertisement sponsored by Friends for Life in the previous week’s People, Emmet King shows concern regarding its content.

He implies that it elicits shame from women who went through an abortion. The advertisement may trigger regret and grief. Post-abortion healing and support organisations have reached out and offered support in these situations, triggered by various reasons. Can a third party impose shame?

I think the advertisement is more about the present and future rather than the past. Maybe the compilers of it are hoping that its contents will nudge others to cease urging a woman to terminate her baby, and I’d say most of all they’re hoping that it would save a baby’s life.

Yours sincerely, Michael Nolan

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Your Health & Wellbeing Appeal for support for 5km fundraiser in Boyle in aid of Huntington’s Disease

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

‘Joe Doran’s Huntington’s Walk’ – a fundraiser being held to raise awareness and funds for people impacted by Huntington’s Disease – is taking place on Saturday, July 23rd in Boyle.

Participants are being invited to gather from 10 am at Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, where the walk will begin at 10.45 am. The park, located just off the N4 between Carrick-on-Shannon and Boyle, is a beautiful spot for a stroll and a picnic.

The 5km walk is being held in aid of those impacted by Huntington’s Disease (HD), a cruel hereditary illness which affects the body’s nervous system. It can cause changes with movement, learning, thinking and emotions.

The disease takes away life skills bit by bit, slowly killing brain cells and relentlessly impacting on cognitive ability, memory, decision-making, mobility, swallowing, speech, and much more.

About 400 people in Ireland have registered as having the gene associated with the disease, while a further 700 have HD, and 5000 are impacted by it.

In all of Ireland there is only one unit equipped with specialised staff to tackle the disease. This unit, located in Bloomfield Health Services in Dublin, has only 24 beds, which are in great demand. The staff there are amazing.

Nursing homes for the elderly, as

good as they are, are really are not suitable for those suffering with the disease. Most people start showing symptoms as young adults.

Joe Doran’s wife Pauline says: “As a wife and mother of HD sufferers, I couldn’t fault the help and support we got from local services. It took five years of hard work, of begging, pleading, letters, emails, phone calls and going to see politicians, anyone I thought could help. Joe is happy, safe and well looked after but there are many more out there that need our help, so please support us in whatever way you can”.

For more information/to support this worthy cause, register or donate at idonate.ie/fundraiser/JoeDoranHDWalk.

National Inpatient Experience Survey at Roscommon Hospital

Pictured at Meaghers Pharmacy on Baggot Street in Dublin were Oonagh O’Hagan (community pharmacist and Safe Pharmacy participant), Louisa Power (HSE Pharmacist), Mary McDermott (CEO of Safe Ireland) and Detective Superintendent Sinéad Greene (Garda National Protective Services Bureau). Pic: Jason Clarke

Pharmacies launch initiative to help victims of domestic abuse A new initiative to enable people experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control to receive support in their local pharmacy has been launched in pharmacies in Roscommon. Safe Pharmacy is being led by the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) in partnership with Safe Ireland, An Garda Síochána and the HSE. So far, twelve pharmacies in Roscommon have already signed up to the Safe Pharmacy initiative, representing over half of the pharmacies in the county, and the IPU expects many

more to get involved. It will provide any person who is experiencing domestic abuse with a safe and secure location to seek support. Participating pharmacies will provide access to a phone in a private consultation room and contact details for local support services. This will allow victims to make that important call, for example, to a family member, local specialist domestic violence services or An Garda Síochána.

Anyone who is experiencing a domestic abuse situation and wishes to

seek the support provided is advised to look for the purple Safe Pharmacy sign on the window displays of participating pharmacies. In the pharmacy they should ask to speak to the pharmacist in the consultation room.

This happens multiple times a day in every pharmacy so will not appear out of the ordinary to anyone who is in the pharmacy at the time. In the privacy and security of the consultation room the person can inform the pharmacist that they require support and this will be provided.

The fifth National Inpatient Experience Survey is now underway in Roscommon University Hospital. This annual survey, the largest of its kind in Ireland, offers patients the opportunity to share their experiences of healthcare, talking about what is working well and what improvements they believe are necessary. This provides a clear picture of the safety and quality of care in Irish hospitals, as seen through the eyes of patients.

Last year’s response rate of 38% at Roscommon University Hospital indicates the strong desire of patients to talk about their experiences in hospital in order to bring about meaningful change.

All patients aged over sixteen years of age who spent twenty-four hours or more in hospital and were discharged during the month of May are eligible to participate in the survey.

HIQA’s Director of Health Information and Standards Rachel Flynn said: “I would like to encourage all eligible pa-

tients to tell us about their recent experiences of care in Roscommon University Hospital. By sharing your views, you will provide us with invaluable information on the improvements that are necessary to deliver a more personcentred health service in your area”.

Tony Canavan (CEO of the Saolta University Health Care Group) said:

“The Saolta Group is committed to listening to the needs of our patients. I strongly encourage all patients who were cared for in Roscommon University Hospital during the month of May to take time to complete the survey”.

To find out more about the survey, visit yourexperience.ie and see Twitter, Instagram and Facebook (@careexperience).

Pictured is Minister Stephen Donnelly and CEO of HIQA Angela Fitzgerald.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

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Style your home for the summer with these interior design tips Embarking on a bit of summer décor is the perfect way to inject some joy and brightness into your home, all while reflecting the colours and sights of the season. While you may not be looking to give your whole home a facelift, there are plenty of small changes you can make to bring some summer joy to your home.

Florals, florals, florals

Perhaps one of the most popular sum-

mer/spring design themes is the floral print. This is the time of the year that nature flourishes, so why not have this reflected in your décor by opting for pillows, throws, etc. with floral prints?

Select sunshine shades

Summery prints like floral patterns are not the only way to bring some of the colour of the season into your home.

Choosing to decorate with yellow and orange shades is a sure-fire way to add

some brightness to your home this summer.

Bring the outdoors inside

One of the best ways to make your home feel a bit more summery is to try bringing the outdoors inside. By adding a few house plants, flowers, or maybe even a little herb garden to your house, you will help bring some of that summer magic inside.

Pictured at the Treacy Decor store in Roscommon are Mark Geraghty and Thomas Treacy.

Pic: Mick McCormack

Try different styles

By opting for a style that is more associated with summertime, such as boho chic or nautical styles, you will help bring your home into harmony with the season. You don’t have to commit to a complete overhaul of your home’s current style, but by adding a few choice items you will help freshen up your space.

Swap out the heavier fabrics Though Irish summers aren’t exactly known for their consistent heat, swapping out the thick winter duvets for thinner blankets and hanging billowy curtains will not only have the effect of making your home feel less stuffy, it will also make your home look more Pictured at the Treacy Decor store in Roscommon are Carol and Margaret. Pic: Mick summery in the process.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

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Pictured at the launch of the Midlands Biodiversity Development Project were Tom Shanahan (Offaly County Council), Sarah Morgan (Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan), Kieran Mulvey (Just Transition Commissioner), Senator Pippa Hackett (Minister for Land-use and Biodiversity), Paddy Phelan (President, IrBEA), Pádraic Ó hUiginn (Project Executive, Midlands Bioenergy Development Plan, IrBEA) Seán Finan (CEO of IrBEA, from Ballinlough in Roscommon) Pat Gallagher (CEO, Westmeath County Council), Noel Gavigan (Technical Executive, IrBEA) and Dr Isabella Donnelly (Regional Coordinator and Westmeath County Mentor, SEAI Sustainable Energy Communities).

In-person launch of Midlands Bioenergy Development Project The Tuar Ard Arts and Enterprise Centre in Moate, Co. Westmeath was the venue for the in-person launch of the Midlands Bioenergy Development Project, which took place on the 22nd of June, 2022.

The Midlands Bioenergy Development Project is coordinated by the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA) and co-funded by the National

Just Transition Fund for the Midlands region.

All of County Roscommon is included in the project’s region.

Minister for Land-use and Biodiversity, Senator Pippa Hackett, officiated at the launch and gave the keynote address on behalf of the government. Just Transition Commissioner Kieran Mulvey spoke about what

the Just Transition seeks to deliver for the region.

More localised events will take place in the autumn in Roscommon and around the Midlands, so that the project can engage directly with potential bioenergy start-up enterprises that could benefit from the project’s knowledge transfer, training, and mentoring.

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Taking the necessary steps to prepare the walls before painting is an essential step in ensuring the best results, as a clean, smooth surface will help the paint adhere to the wall.

The dos and don’ts of exterior painting Do… use the right type of paint: When painting the outside of your house, it’s important to make sure that the paint you’re using is specifically designed for exterior walls. Choosing an Irishmade paint is especially recommended as they are formulated to withstand Irish weather.

Don’t… rush the preparation: Taking the necessary steps to prepare the walls before painting is an essential step in ensuring the best results, as a

clean, smooth surface will help the paint adhere to the wall.

Use a pressure washer and/or a scrapper to remove any excess paint or dirt, and make sure to repair any cracks or holes in the exterior walls before beginning to paint.

Do… check the weather forecast: It’s no secret that Irish summers are unpredictable at the best of times, so it’s important to take the time to check that the weather will be mild long

enough for the walls to be completely dry before painting and to allow time for the paint itself to dry. Even though exterior paints are designed to dry quickly, if it begins to rain too early, your paint could begin to run – so always make sure to check the forecast.

Don’t… opt for the wrong tools: Having the right tools for the job is, of course, always an essential. Make sure to use paint brushes and rollers that are

specifically designed for exterior walls, and if you haven’t got one, invest in a high quality, sturdy ladder to ensure your safety while painting high areas.

Do… the maths beforehand: No one wants to run out of paint midway through the job or waste money by buying too much paint, so make sure you avoid getting the wrong amount by availing of online paint calculators, which can be found on most brands’ websites.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

HOMEandGARDEN

Refresh your garden this summer The summer months are here, and we’re all spending more of our time outside. So why not take the opportunity to give your garden/patio area a little facelift so you can enjoy your outside area even more this summer.

Set up a seating area in the sun If you’re hoping to get more use out of your garden this summer, setting up a comfy seating area is the first thing to do. Considering investing in some new patio furniture, giving your old furniture a fresh lick of paint/varnish, or adding some outdoor cush-

ions to give your seating area a new look.

Add some lighting

Adding some outdoor lighting is a sure-fire way to bring an added flourish to your garden.

Why not string up some garden lanterns or solar-powered fairy lights to brighten your outside area? Most solar-powered lights have in-built timers in them, meaning you can just put them up and not have to worry about switching them on or off.

Don’t be afraid to upcylce

Refreshing your garden doesn’t have to mean spending a bunch of money – you can always

make use of what you have and create some upcycled decorations. Old wine bottles can be repurposed as candle holders, old wellies that have lost their pair can be made into quirky flowerpots, and old pieces of furniture that are no longer fit for the house can be given a fresh coat of paint in a fun colour and used as storage, decorations, flowerpots, etc.

Get to gardening

It goes without saying that the best gardens are the ones rich in nature, flowers, and greenery.

Consider planting a living wall, a rose arch, or simply some flower beds to bring your garden to life. Even if you don’t have much of a green thumb, there are plenty of low-maintenance plants you could have a go at, such as pansies or petunias.

Try adding a mirror

A garden might not initially seem like the place to decorate with a mirror, but don’t rule them out. By placing a larger mirror that’s shaped like a window to a wall in your garden, you will create the illusion of added depth, making the whole area feel bigger. Mirrors are also great for brightening up any dark corners in your garden, such as any north-facing spots.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Ballintubber Heritage Weekend Wishing Ballintubber Heritage festival every success from all at

RT FITNESS RECOVERY SUITE Ballymoe Community Centre

SERVICES l Normatec Recovery Boots l Cyrotheraphy Bath (Ice) l Sauna l Massage Guns

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Wishing Ballintubber Heritage festival every success from

KENNYS LOUNGE BALLINTUBBER

Sunday, July 17th: BBQ Monster Auction (proceeds Tidy Town) Music with EAMON JACKSON Sunday, July 24th: Presentation Social Music with ODD SOX Friday, July 29th: Comedy Hypnosis Night With the famous JASON O’CALLAGHAN

(TICKET ONLY EVENT)

Tickets on sale in Kenny’s call 087 2308895

21st Party Sunday, July 31st: Wedding Anniversary Music with BILL HAUGH Saturday, July 30th:

All parties catered for with complimentary refreshments

Call Eileen on 087 2308895 or James on 087 6029990

Councillor Anthony

Waldron Independent

Play your part keep Roscommon litter free and protect the environment

Please contact Anthony on 086 7866774 or email: anthonywaldron@mail.com

Cllr. NIGEL

DINEEN INDEPENDENT

Ballintubber Heritage Festival kicks off with Heritage Weekend Heritage celebrations kicked off on Wednesday in Ballintubber, and are set to continue all month, with an extensive schedule of events and activities taking place in the local village.

A part of the month-long celebrations, Ballintubber’s ‘Heritage Weekend’ runs from July 15th to 17th inclusive. Following historical presentations at the Old School on Wednesday and the ‘Day in the Bog’ event (from 2 pm) on Thursday, this weekend will see a huge array of further events taking place. This year’s Heritage Weekend is sure to have something for everyone, so come along and join in the celebrations!

For the past two weeks, the village has been hosting almost seventy archaeology students and faculty from the United States, and this weekend, Ballintubber will be welcoming even more visitors from abroad.

As part of Heritage Weekend, Ballintubber is inviting people to come and join the excavation at the castle and surrounding area, enjoy guided tours, lectures on anthropology, archaeology, genealogy and more, and hear from a visitor from Australia who has traced his ancestors to the old graveyard from famine times.

Friday Friday’s heritage celebra-

Joe Malone, Teresa Malone, Cllr Tony Waldron, Maryna Liashevska and Yan Khopta pictured at Garvey’s Pub, Ballintubber on the occasion of a reception for American visitors who have arrived in Ballintubber for the Castles in Communities archaeology project. Pic: Mick McCormack. Pic: Mick McCormack

tions will begin at 11.30 am, when the Biodiversity QR Coding Project will be launched by Christopher of Flynn Furey Environmental Consultancy. A guided tour of the trail will also take place, starting at the Castle Green.

Saturday On Saturday, July 16th, a host of activities will take place. At 11 am there’s a presentation by Mary Timoney at the old graveyard. Then, from 12-4 pm, there will be over twenty trade/craft street stalls in the village. And there will

be an ice cream van there too! Magician Denver Coyne will be present to perform some tricks for the younger attendees.

There will be tea and homemade scones in Old Schoolhouse, as well as demonstrations on making traditional bread and potato cakes, and on making traditional weaving and other crafts.

Guided tours of the castle will run at 2 pm, and a children and adults’ archaeological dig will be taking place all day on Saturday. In addition, there will be a display of all the artefacts found to

date, as well as a display of old farm equipment and tools, and lots of street entertainment. Food will be served in Garvey’s Bar as part of the festivities.

Sunday The Heritage Weekend celebrations continue on Sunday, July 17th, when Ballintubber’s annual cemetery mass takes place at 11.30 pm, followed by demonstrations on how to make a St Brigid’s Cross at St Brigid’s Well.

The day’s festivities also include a pony drive, a

demonstration on traditional haymaking, and a trip to Willsgrove Hall.

Sunday’s celebrations conclude with a monster auction in Kenny’s Bar, with all proceeds in aid of the local Tidy Towns.

There will be a free BBQ and music by Eamon Jackson on the day, so it is sure to be a great evening.

Come along and show your support.

To find out more about the heritage celebrations taking place in Ballintubber, visit the village’s website, ballintubbervillage. com, or find Ballintubber Tidy Towns on Facebook.

BALLINTOBER, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON Phone: 086 2130723 Email: nigel.dineen@hotmail.com Wishing Ballintubber Heritage festival every success from all at

14, 29 & 33 Seats Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Telephone: 086 2645016

Sara Guillen from Downey, California (a member of the Castles in Communities project in Ballintubber) pictured with Cllr Tom Crosby (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council), who was chairperson of a delegation that visited Downey back in 2006/7. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Sláinte! Dan Cearley and Siobhan Boyd pictured in the Beer Garden in Garvey’s Pub, Ballintubber on the occasion of a reception for American visitors who have arrived in Ballintubber for the Castles in Communities archaeology project.

Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Ballintubber Heritage Weekend

The Ballintubber Castles in Communities and McDermott’s Rock excavation groups pictured in Tulsk recently. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

BALLINTUBBER

Heritage Weekend

Eileen Kelly, Eileen Ward, Peggy Kearney, Eileen Coyne, Fr Pat O’Toole, Bernadette Hoban, Dawn Webester and Joan Healy pictured at an event held to welcome American visitors to Ballintubber for the Castles in Communities archaeology project. Pic: Mick McCormack

Castlerea Band & Reed Band pictured at an event held to welcome American visitors to Ballintubber for the Castles in Communities archaeology project. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

GOING OUT

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Kathleen McCann, Sinead Mangan and Laura McMahon pictured at a recent Ballaghaderreen/ Kilmovee INTO Branch retirement function. Pic: Mick McCormack

Ballaghaderreen/Kilmovee INTO Branch retirement function

Sheelagh Dillon, Michelle Kelly, Goretti Kelly, Lorraine Kelly and Patrick Cummins pictured at a recent Ballaghaderreen/ Kilmovee INTO Branch retirement function. Pic: Mick McCormack

Eileen Jordan, Gerry Carmody and Mary Carmody pictured at a recent Ballaghaderreen/ Kilmovee INTO Branch retirement function. Pic: Mick McCormack

Niall Drudy, Catherine Drudy, John Drudy and Conor Drudy pictured at a recent Ballaghaderreen/Kilmovee INTO Branch retirement function. Pic: Mick McCormack

Helena Brett, Denise Deerey and Patricia Morris pictured at a recent Ballaghaderreen/ Kilmovee INTO Branch retirement function. Pic: Mick McCormack

Lisa Kearnan, Helen Curran and Roseanne Deeney pictured at a recent Ballaghaderreen/ Kilmovee INTO Branch retirement function. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roseanne Deeney, Claire McBrien, Orla Higgins, Geraldine Lavin and Michelle Igoe pictured at a recent Ballaghaderreen/ Kilmovee INTO Branch retirement function. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

GOING OUT

29

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Ann Marie McDonagh, Susan Gaynor, Pat McGourty and Paul Gaynor pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

Fr John McManus, Frank Campbell, Valerie Campbell and Gabbi Campbell pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

Launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show

Claire, Niamh, Martha and Maryann McCann and John Farrell pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack Ann Hester, Owen Hester, Tara Muldowney and Mark Winston pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s. Pic: Mick McCormack

Derval Harte, Ellen Harte, Elaine Quinn and Brendan O’Brien pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

Chloe Mulligan, Daire Mulligan, Sean Mulligan and John Heneghan pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

Susan Igoe (Chairperson, Castlerea Agricultural Show Committee), Maria Hester (PRO) and Kayley Mannion (Assistant Secretary) pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

Keith Mulvany, Jillian Connor, Martina Mulligan and Aisling Mulligan pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

30

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Launch of 42nd O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School The launch of the 42nd O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School took place on Wednesday, June 29th, at Kilronan Castle Estate.

The O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School have been held in Keadue every August Bank holiday weekend since 1978. The festival was initiated to commemorate world renowned harper and composer Turlough O’Carolan, whose remains are interred in Kilronan Cemetery just outside Keadue Village.

The festival committee are absolutely delighted to be back after a two-year break due to the Covid pandemic and are really looking forward to the event. The festival aims to bring a smile to people’s faces and inject some life back into the village and community after what have been a tough few years for everybody.

The annual event is one of the longest running and leading harp and traditional music festivals in

Boyle Musical Society is back!

Andy McGovern, Declan Noone, Maria Guihen, Cllr. Tom Crosby (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council), Cllr.

Valerie Byrne, Cllr. John Cummins and Conor Layden pictured at Kilronan Castle Estate on Wednesday, June 29th for the launch of the 42nd O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School.

Ireland, aiming especially at promoting harp music and the music of O’Carolan. It attracts harpers from Ireland and overseas who attend the summer school classes and compete in the international harp competitions. Participants have an opportunity to participate in the many traditional music

events and sessions throughout the festival and summer school.

The festival will run from Monday, July 25th, to Monday, August 1st, kicking off with the O’Carolan Summer School. Classes will be hosted in harp, bodhran, tin whistle, set dancing and banjo (taking place in the morning) and classes

in button accordion, fiddle, concertina, flute, traditional singing, beginners and advanced sean-nós dancing will be held in the evening. Registration for the summer school in advance online.

For more information, see ocarolanharpfestival.ie or follow the festival’s Facebook page.

Boyle Musical Society is delighted to announce that this year’s show will be the classic musical ‘Guys & Dolls’.

This will be the society’s 37th musical and the first since ‘Sister Act’ in 2019. It will be staged in St. Joseph’s Hall from Wednesday, November 23rd to Saturday, November 26th.

Rehearsals will begin in early September and everybody is welcome. Keep an eye on the local press for further details over the coming weeks.

With music and lyrics by Frank Loesser and the book and lyrics by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows, ‘Guys & Dolls’ is set in the 1930s New York underworld of gangsters, gamblers and other shady characters.

Well-known songs like ‘Luck Be A Lady’, ‘Sit Down, ‘You’re Rockin’ The Boat’, ‘Take Back Your Mink’ and ‘Guys & Dolls’ are part of the soundtrack and this promises to be one hell of a show!

For more information on Boyle Musical Society, please follow us on Facebook or visit our website www.boylemusicalsociety.com.

William Percy French – Centenary commemoration and celebration A National Percy French Commemoration Committee chaired

by Fr. Francis Beirne and incorporating Percy French Societies in Roscommon, Galway, Leitrim and Bangor, County Down, was set up in 2017 to carry through a programme of events in commemoration and celebration of the life of William Percy French, born in Clooneyquinn, Co. Roscommon in May, 1854, and due to take place in May, 2020, the centenary year of his death. Unfortunately, Covid-19 intervened.

Undaunted, and in anticipation of healthier days ahead, Lila Jackson from the Bangor, North Down Society got in touch with the committee expressing a keen wish to bring her members to Roscommon to explore the county and visit historical venues recognised for their importance throughout the country and beyond.

In response, a revised programme of events was compiled and the 21st to 24th June was pencilled in. The invitation issued to our Bangor colleagues to travel west was enthusiastically accepted. True to plan, their coach made a timely arrival in Roscommon’s revamped Square on Tuesday, 21st of June, our guests welcomed by members of the organising committee.

Next morning, with local historian, Jim Ganly acting as tour guide, a Clarke’s of Tulsk tour bus with our guests, together with members of the organising

committee and representatives from other societies on board, followed the signpost through the rolling fertile grasslands and tidy farmsteads of County Roscommon to the Douglas Hyde Centre, Portahard, Frenchpark. The centre, built in 1740, once the Portahard Church of Ireland, was restored in 1988 by Roscommon County Council and converted to an Interpretative Centre, accommodating a permanent exhibition dedicated to the life and times of Dr. Douglas Hyde, first President of Ireland, whose father, Arthur Hyde, was once Rector there. Under the pen name of An Craoibhín Aoibhinn, Douglas Hyde is credited with a number of publications, most notably Love Songs of Connacht and A Literary History of Ireland, his aim through life – to unite people in a common bond through music, song, folklore, literature, and tradition.

Later that day, our comfortable coach would wind its way towards Clonalis House, Castlerea, home of the O’Conor family whose ancestors held the kingship of Connacht from earliest times up to 1475. The present house was built in 1878 by Charles Owen O’Conor, replacing an earlier structure.

On arrival we were greeted

by Pyers O’Conor Nash. This was followed by an informative tour of this excellent house by his wife, Marguerite. Its library contains thousands of books and archival material, includ-

Back row, left to right: Fr. Francis Beirne, Chairperson, Roscommon Percy French Society; Cllr. Joe Murphy, then-Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council; Darragh Kelly, PRO, Roscommon Percy French Society.

Front row, left to right: Margaret Curley, Secretary, Galway Percy French Society; Lila Jackson, North Down Percy French Society; Mary Coyle, Choir Mistress, and Norman Cairns, North Down Percy French Society.

ing letters from Charles Stuart Parnell. The harp of Turlough O’Carolan rests in its glass frame, safe for generations to come. In Clonalis one is surrounded by history.

Thursday dawns, our bus arrives and the weather is encouraging as we wind our way towards Tulsk and Cruachan Aí, to be greeted by our very well informed guide, Mayo native, Mike McCarthy. Here, Ireland’s ancient past is brought to life.

This is the prehistoric land of

the Celtic warrior Queen Medb who, it is said, ruled all of Connacht between 50 B.C. and 50 A.D. A discussion between Medb and her husband, Ailill, about possessions and power, led to battle and conflict involving her armies in Connacht and the armies of Ulster led by Cú Chulainn. Medb aimed to carry away her prize, the great Brown Bull of Cooley – leading to the epic tale, The Táin Bó Cúailnge.

Leaving Cruachan Aí and its hallowed history, we are on the

road again to The Church of St. Catherine, Clooneyquinn, for a Service of Thanksgiving to commemorate and celebrate the life of William Percy French (1854-1920). Conducted by Fr. Francis Beirne, with the thenCathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. Joe Murphy in attendance, the service included beautiful hymns by the Roscommon Church Choir with Choir Mistress, Mary Coyle, and organist Darren Lane from Ballyforan, and with Readings

by Darragh Kelly, Margaret Curley and Lila Jackson. Children from the local national school together with their teachers, also participated, bridging the generations, together with members of the local community. After prayer and blessing the Service concluded with a selection of Percy French songs led by the Choir with enthusiastic participation from the assembled congregation. Somewhere, from afar, Douglas Hyde may be watching the distant scene, his legacy perpetuated on his own native soil – people united in a common cultural bond through music, song, folklore, literature and tradition.

Before departing, An Cathaoirleach thanked the organising committee for inviting him to the Service of Thanksgiving which he said was a great honour for him to attend.

The day ended with a visit to Percy French’s memorial site at Clooneyquinn. Mary Coyle placed a sheaf of cheerful summer blooms beside him as neighbour and guide Marty pointed out locations in the area associated with the French family.

No doubt Percy would be pleased with the Programme of Events organised over three days in his honour and in celebration of his life. On the following day our friends from North Down travelled to their homesteads where The Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the Sea. -M.C.

31

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Author of new book on Percy French to attend festival Percy French Festival in Castlecoote (July 20-22)

Bernadette Lowry

The Percy French Festival has an exclusive first this year as the author of a new book on Percy French, Bernadette Lowry, speaks for the first time publicly on her groundbreaking new discoveries in the lyrically titled Sounds of Manymirth on the Night’s Ear Ringing: Percy French (1854-1920).

The book explores French’s ‘Jarvey

Years’ and Joyce’s Haunted Inkbottle which brings out numerous compelling clues that Percy French is the singular Finnegan of the cosmic Finnegans of James Joyce’s final novel.

Bernadette Lowry found chunks of French material heretofore undetected in Finnegan’s Wake but the breakthrough clue was the discovery of the reference to ‘a passing of a giant in Liverpool’, at the end of Chapter 3 of Finnegan’s Wake. Joyce paid reverent tribute to French by referencing two of Moore’s melodies, one which Moore wrote as an elegy for his old friend, the

Boyle Arts Festival is underway A very exciting programme of live music events has been assembled for Boyle Arts Festival 2022. Tickets for all events are now on sale through www.boylearts.com.

Some of the big names to watch out for in the live music genre include Soda Blonde, Something Happens, Lisa Lambe, The Lost Brothers, The Swing Cats, Matteo Cullen and Friends, Mules and Me, and The Men Who Knew Too Much along with live shows from local bands The Flies, The Regulars, Dotts O’Connor, Adam Daly and a showcase of the best young local musical talent by Music Generation Roscommon.

There are some great free music events in pubs too.

For more information, please visit www.boylearts.com, call 0899830448, email info@boylearts.com Lisa Lambe or follow us on social media.

musicologist, John Stevenson.

Lowry makes a compelling, wellevidenced argument that French, and especially his first wife, are the heroes of the most extravagant wake in human history and has even strengthened her argument since publishing her book with more riveting evidence. She proves that French, Ettie and the Jarvey years are immortalised in Joyce’s swansong.

This book greatly reorientates our sense of French and his rightful place at the centre of Irish culture from which he has been banished to the periphery

Arts Centre presents new exhibition ‘With Other Matter, Part Two’ Roscommon Arts Centre presents the second iteration of the visual art exhibition, ‘With Other Matter’, as it opens in the centre’s Gallery Space this Friday (July 15th) and continues until August 27th.

The artists included in this exhibition were selected through an open call that invited them to share artworks and processes inspired, influenced and involving ‘other matter’, such as plants and other items from nature.

For long periods of 2020 and 2021, social restrictions limited our interactions with other humans.

Urged to stay at or close to home, our engagements with the things and the other matter that occupy these spaces intensified. It has been widely documented that this period enabled a time to build new relationships with nature, plant species and the other living matter

Something Happens

for far too long. Signed copies of her book will be available at the Percy French Festival, now in its 14th successive year.

The Percy French Festival was the only festival in Ireland to continue during the Covid years and takes place in the wonderful setting of Castlecoote House, home of the Percy French Festival. It runs from July 20th to 22nd.

The theme of this year’s festival is ‘Does the Soul have a future?’

For more information email info@percyfrench.ie or go to www.percyfrench. ie or phone 09066 63794.

that surround us, allowing us closer observation and interaction with the often overlooked familiar things we live with and alongside. Through these two group exhibitions of With Other Matter in 2022, thirty-one artists will share their observations and interactions with other matter throughout 2020 and 2021.

With Other Matter, Part Two is curated by Naomi Draper and includes works by: Mark Beatty, Lydia Hickey, Jasmin Marker, Steven Maybury, Kate Mercer, Marielle MacLeman, Ina Olohan, Kate Oram, Blaine O’Donnell, Conor O’Grady, Annabel Potterton, David Pierce, Laura Skehan, Lorenzo Tonti, Amna Walayat, Conor Wickham and Matthew Wilson.

With Other Matter, Part Two opens in Roscommon Arts Centre at 6 pm this Friday (15th) with a drinks reception. All are welcome to attend.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

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• Also training in Thesaurus accounting products.

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala 090 66 25818 or (086) 0352849

Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

Cllr. Liam Callaghan

Athlone Local Electoral Area Available to all communities Roscommon County Council Keeping in touch with the farmers for any agricultural issues.

Contact me on 086 3325839

Email: cllrlcallaghan@roscommoncoco.ie

MICHAEL CUDDY & CO

Chartered Accountants & Statutory Audit Firm 1 Fry Place, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Telephone:

The Castlerea Agricultural Show Committee pictured at the show launch in McGourty’s Bar. Back row (left to right): Pat McGourty, Derval Harte, Kasey Mannion, Matt Flanagan, Brendan O’Brien, Martin Casey, Micheal Hester and Frank Campbell. Front row (left to right): Elaine Quinn, Marie Hanmore, Danny Burke, Susan Igoe, Maria Hester and Kayley Mannion.

Pic: Mick McCormack

Castlerea Show launch…

Cllr Pascal Fitzmaurice, Susan Gaynor and Ann Marie McDonagh pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

Ann Marie Treacy, Gary Mannion, Jamie Webster and Kevin Igoe pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

Derval Harte, Paul Lafferty, Jason and Aoife Flanagan pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

090 64 94311

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

(Left) Cllr Pascal Fitzmaurice, Ann Marie McDonagh, Martin Casey and Danny Burke pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

DRUMSHANBO MART PLC Friday (evening) 15th of July at 7.00pm RING 1: SALE OF DRY COWS followed by Sucklers and In-calf Cows

RING 2: SALE

OF STORE AND WEANLING HEIFERS RING 3: SALE OF BULLOCKS AND WEANLING BULLS Thursday 14th July at 12 o’clock

OPENING SALE OF STORE & FAT LAMBS & BREEDING EWES Saturday 23rd of July at 12 o’clock

ORGANIC SALE OF ALL STOCK License No. 003868

Tel: 071-9641116 or 071-9641117 Mobile: 086 8392568 Fax: 071 9641118

Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim The Rock of Lough Key (McDermott’s Island) group pictured with academic staff and students, and Cllr Tom Crosby (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council). Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Archaeological field schools gather in Tulsk Academic staff and students from two international archaeological field schools gathered in Rathcroghan Visitor Centre recently for a ‘meet and greet’ and a tour of the archaeological sites in the locality.

Cllr Tom Crosby, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, welcomed the staff and students. He noted: “County Roscommon is blessed with a wonderful cultural landscape, rich in archaeology. This importance is reflected in the fact that there are currently two international archaeological field schools carrying out significant research projects in the county”.

The two research projects taking place in the county at the moment are the ‘Castles in Communities’ field school and the ‘Lough Key Archaeological Project’. The ‘Castles in Communities’ field school is an intensive archaeological/anthropological field school and cultural immersion experience based in Balintubber, and it is being held in collaboration with Dr Niall Brady and Foothill College in California and Columbia University in New York.

The Lough Key Archaeological Project meanwhile includes research on the Rock of Lough Key (McDermott’s Island) and is brought to the county by Dr Tom Finan of St Louis University.

Research to date has detailed significant medieval elements of the island through archaeological stratigraphy and artifacts.

Archaeological field schools are a great benefit to the county through the academic research and knowledge gathered through the cultural exchange between local communities and international students by bringing visitors into the county and raising awareness of the value and importance of our heritage.

Tom Crosby Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Strokestown/Boyle Electoral Area MOBILE

086 6005530 www.tomcrosby.ie

facebook.com/ tomcrosby twitter.com/cllrtomcrosby

DEAD & WORN-OUT ANIMALS TOM ROGERS

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

Your LOCAL Collector – Guaranteed lowest price Pictured in Tulsk recently were Daniel Curley, Dr Niall Brady, Cllr Tom Crosby (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council), Dr Samuel Connell, Dr John Soderberg and Dr Kathryn Maurer. Missing from picture: Dr Thomas Finan.

ROSCOMMON TYRE CENTRE Props: Aaron & Colin Mullally

Circular Road, Roscommon

Tel: (090) 66 26626 Fax: (090) 66 27022 Mobile: (087) 9007898 ALL AGRICULTURAL TYRES AND TRACTOR BATTERIES STOCKED

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

Michael

Fitzmaurice TD Mobile:

Cllr Tom Crosby (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council) pictured outside Rathcroghan Visitor Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

086 1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

PSRA PSRALICENCE: LICENCE:002598 002598

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Every Saturday at 10am Every Saturday@10am Gates open at 7.30am Gates open at 7.30am

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Funding confirmed for local agricultural shows Funding is being provided by the Government to support agricultural shows in County Roscommon this summer. Minister Frank Feighan welcomed news from Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, that up to €6,000 will be provided to each of 119 agricultural shows taking place nationwide this summer.

Sligo-Leitrim TD Feighan said: “Much to the delight of organisers and spectators alike, agricultural shows in Roscommon are return-

ing to normal after much disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic in previous years.

“Funding of up to €6,000 is being provided to each show to support them in meeting the costs of putting the shows together on the back of huge voluntary endeavour. The shows being supported in Roscommon include: Castlerea, Elphin, Boyle Summer Show, Roscommon and Elphin”.

Also welcoming the funding was Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan, who stated: “We’re coming close

Phone (090)9679660 to prebook

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much the Agricultural Shows mean to people in rural communities.

“Between cattle best of breed, dog shows, sheep and poultry competitions, and music, the events are extremely popular and I’m delighted to support their return to the summer calendar.

“Our shows signals fun, energy and a sense of community – something for all the family. They are a shop window for what is produced locally and bring visitors from near and far”.

Boyle farmer third in Teagasc Beef Photo competition

A Boyle native has claimed third place in a national photography competition in which beef farmers from all over the country were invited to submit a snap depicting what day-to-day life is like on an Irish farm.

The winners of the Teagasc Beef Photo Competition, which was run in the build-up to National Beef Open Day, ‘BEEF2022’, were announced recently, with Boyle’s Kieran Beirne taking third place.

Teagasc Beef Enterprise leader Paul Crosson said: “We were overwhelmed with the response to our competition and delighted to have received such high quality entries. The judges and I had a difficult task to whittle down over 150 entries to

cllrjkeogh@roscommoncoco.ie

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

to show season in August and hopefully most of the bales will be done and turf home in the next while!

“Show events are a chance to meet up with neighbours, family and friends, and it starts with the Castlerea Agricultural and Trade and Craft Show on August Bank Holiday Monday. Following that, there’s Boyle, Roscommon, Elphin and Strokestown”.

Minister Humphreys said: “As Minister for Rural and Community Development, I know how

three winners and five runners-up, all which showcased what’s great about Irish beef farming. Congratulations to all the winners”.

The first prize winner was Treasa Gibney from Kells in Co. Meath. The second prize winner was Elodie Gill from Clonbullogue, Co. Offaly.

Third prize went to Kieran Beirne from Boyle, Co. Roscommon. When the photograph was taken, the cows had just moved into their new paddock and were enjoying the evening sunset.

Five runners-up were also chosen: Colm Mulligan, Co. Leitrim; Bill Guinan, Co. Offaly; Aoibhin Coady, Co. Tipperary; Chris Gethings, Co. Offaly and Christopher Doughan, Co. Tipperary.

Susan Gaynor and Peter Dolan pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

Suckler sector: Please don’t scapegoat us!

Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) President Vincent Roddy has warned against Government proposals for any further reduction in the national suckler herd.

Speaking this week, Mr. Roddy said that Government imposed targets to deliver a reduction in our overall emissions including a 22 per cent to 30 per cent reduction in agriculture “must not involve further reductions in the suckler sector”.

“This sector has seen a significant reduction over the last ten years with numbers falling by 160,000 cows, from 1,067,398 in 2012 to 907,059 in 2021, which represents a 15 per cent fall in our overall herd,” he said.

While this reduction has been off set by increases in other sectors of agriculture it is stressed the INHFA President “absolutely unacceptable that there would be any further reductions demanded here”.

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Winner of third prize in the recent Teagasc Beef Photo Competition was Kieran Beirne from Boyle, Co. Roscommon. When the photograph was taken, the cows had just moved into their new paddock and were enjoying the evening sunset.

35

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Mountbellew Vintage Rally returns!

There was great excitement all over North Galway and South Roscommon with confirmation that Mountbellew Vintage Rally will be held in the Mart grounds on Sunday, July 24th.

The Covid-19 pandemic prevented the event from taking place for the past two years but this year’s version promises to be bigger and better than ever!

The Mountbellew Vintage Committee, headed by Chairperson Mickey Joe Cunningham, is putting together one of the most exciting events ever seen in the west of Ireland.

The site itself covers over 60 acres with free parking facilities beside the vintage fields.

According to Mr. Cunningham, there will be a special traffic management plan in place to ensure easy access in and out of the site.

Mountbellew Vintage Committee have gone to great lengths to incorporate an actual field of corn which will feature old methods of harvesting corn from the hook and scythe to Old traditions, including the use of hook and scythe, are celebrated at the annual Mountbellew Vintage Rally. Photo courtesy of David Walsh modern combine harvester.

Secretary Fergal Mannion corn seeds so that only the best have announced their decisays that there will be many quality corn would be sowed. sion to take their camper vans/ new vintage items of a kind It is expected that thousands caravans/tents to Mountbellew rarely seen at such events. One of people will attend the event. after which they will continue item that will be of great interTreasurer Matt Farrell points to enjoy the magnificent west est is the car used by Michael out that the committee is of Ireland.

Collins’ fiancée Kitty Kiernan including many activities for Jonathan Regan, one of the during the War of Independchildren and that all children founding fathers of the Mountence. will be admitted free of charge bellew Vintage Rally back in Meanwhile, committee memwhilst the adult admission 2000, said that more people ber Eugene Crehan unearthed charge has remained at €10 for than ever are now keenly intera broken down corn winnower the past ten years. ested in social history. which hasn’t been used for the Brendan Shine and his band “I have yet to meet anybody past 70 years. Following great will play on the main stage in who, having browsed through patience and workmanship he the afternoon and committee the hundreds of historic items will give a working display of member Padraig Booth said on show at the Mountbellew the machine at the rally. This that there will be ample space Vintage Rally, didn’t really enmachine was used by farmers for caravans and tents for the joy the experience!” Jonathan to extract weed seeds and ‘light’ many patrons who already said.

Mountbellew Vintage Show

Sunday, July 24th, 2022 Venue: The Mart Grounds, Mountbellew

Cars, Tractors, Oil Engines, Steam Engines • Display of IM & ZM Registrations • Rolls Royce + Field Marshall Tractors

Exhibits must be 30 years or over • Kitty Kiernan’s Ford Model T (Michael Collins Fiancée)

• Lawn Mower Racing • Trade Stands All Exhibits must be in by 12.30pm

Mountbellew Vintage Rally returns after the Covid ‘break’ on Sunday, July 24th.

Photo courtesy of David Walsh

Music by: Brendan Shine

(with Emily Shine)

36

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Peter Dolan, Mark Buckley and John Sharkey pictured at the launch of Castlerea Agricultural Show in McGourty’s Bar. Pic: Mick McCormack

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 SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. VIEWING TIME 10.00 A.M. - 10-50 A.M.

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

ROSCOMMON

AGRICULTURAL

SHOW Will be held in Hannon’s Grounds, Athlone Road, Roscommon

THE SHOW WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, 20th AUGUST 2022 Classes for Horses, Cattle, Ponies, Sheep, Dogs, etc.

Best Dog Section in the County - 2 free classes Under 12 years: 1-Boys 1-Girls

• TROPHIES FOR ALL CLASSES

Big Section + Free Kids events on the day Phone Damien Hannon on: (086) 8509845 or Christy Tully PRO (086) 2209338 for further details

50th annual Roscommon Agricultural Show will be held next month This is a big milestone year for Roscommon Industrial & Agricultural Show as the popular annual event celebrates its 50th anniversary in August.

This year’s show will take place on Saturday, August 20th 2022, at Hannon’s grounds, Roscommon. Children will be admitted free of charge.

As ever, the show committee is extremely grateful to all their loyal sponsors and supporters for their continued support,

without which it would not be possible to stage this important community event. A sincere thanks also to all our volunteers.

This year’s show will feature a range of special classes for horses, cattle, and dogs, and there will be bigger prize money than ever up for grabs.

There will be a new €3,000 foal championship, as well as a new breeder’s championship (all direct entries). The All-Ireland Irish Draught Yearling Filly Championship will also be taking

place as part of the show, and is sure to be one of the highlights.

The full schedule of events featuring at the 50th Roscommon Industrial & Agricultural Show will be available soon.

For more information on the show, contact Damien Hannon (chairperson) on 086 8509845 or Christy Tully (PRO) on 086 2209338. You can also visit Facebook (facebook. com/roscommonshow), Instagram (@rosagshow), or Twitter (@Roscommonagshow).

Castlerea MART WATCH

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

Over 400 animals presented for sale on Thursday last with trade and prices similar to last and sellers were pleased with trade holding extremely well especially for quality and forward lots.

Bullocks topped out at €2,360, heifers peaked at €2,080, while dry cows made up to €2,330. Cows with calves at foot made from €920 to €2,000 for a limousin cow and her limousin bull calf at foot. Springers made from €1,430 to €1,540 per head.

Young calves made from €85 up to €250.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday 14th) with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Sample prices for bullocks: Chx 445kgs €1480, AA 440kgs €1390, Lm 370kgs €1240, Lm 525kgs €1490, AA 510kgs €1450, Hex 535kgs €1330, AAx 560kgs

€1620, Lm 625kgs €1870, Ch 780kgs €2280, Chx 685kgs €2050, Lm 690kgs €2035, Ch 800kgs €2360.

Heifers: Lm 430kgs €1460, Ch 495kgs €1350, AA 480kgs €1310, Ch 400kgs €1150, Lm 405kgs €1290, Chx 685kgs €2080, Lm 660kgs €1980, Ch 665kgs €1945, Lm 565kgs €1680.

Dry cows: Ch 835kgs €2330, Lm 755kgs €2060, Lm 730kgs €1990, AAx 460kgs €1040, Ch 700kgs €1800, Fr 525kgs €980, Hex 720kgs €1630, Shx 670kgs €1780.

Weanling bulls: Chx 410kgs €1230, Lm 320kgs €840, Lm 440kgs €1050, Ch 255kgs €860, Ch 235kgs €800, Lm 195kgs €680.

Weanling heifers: Chx 285kgs €840, Ch 250kgs €810, Lm 265kgs €800, Ch 335kgs €1060, Ch 305kgs €980, Sim 315kgs €960.

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Flashback from our files: Elina Kurki travelled from Finland to attend the Roscommon Show in 2019. She is pictured with her pet, Linus.

Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

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

FOR KEENEST QUOTES CALL

071 96 33222

E: wardbrosltd@gmail.com

Cllr. Laurence FALLON

‘Please shop local.

When shopping online, support local businesses’

Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

Tel. 090 6488232 M: 086 8575512 E: cllrlfallon@roscommoncoco.ie Shop local, support local, stay local, stay safe!

37

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Baileys Cow is back and calling for county entries Diageo Ireland and its cream supplier Glanbia Ireland are inviting the county’s Holstein Friesian breeders to prepare for the return of the Diageo Baileys Champion Dairy Cow at this year’s Virginia Show, Co. Cavan on August 24th. Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon officially launched the competition at Diageo Baileys in Dublin.

Welcoming its return after a two-year absence due to the pandemic, Minister Heydon said: “This competition helps shine a light on Ireland’s reputation as a world leader in grass-fed dairy production. It is an endorsement of the everimproving breeding practices undertaken by farmers across the country that go hand in hand with sustainable milk production.

“The global success of Baileys, underpinned by the long-standing partnership between the competition sponsors, Diageo Ireland and Glanbia Ireland, is an outstanding example of the industry collaboration that has been a hallmark of our export orientated agri-food sector”.

Entrants will be competing for a share of a €10,000 prize pot. The top place of Overall Champion attracts a €2,500 prize; followed by €1,000 and €500 for Reserve Champion and Honourable Mention respectively. Other awards will be presented on the day across several categories including Junior Cows in their second lactation. The Best Junior Cow category has prizes worth €750 in total. The popular BestHeifer-in-Milk category carries a fund of €1,700 with first place worth €500.

Interested breeders should contact Brendan Smyth on 0872560952.

The Square, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon T: 087 9400383 Society Street, Ballinasloe, County Galway E: aisling.dolan@oireachtas.ie W: www.aislingdolan.org

(Proudly serving farmers for over 63 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday, July 15th at 11 a.m.

Entries are now open for the €10K Diageo Baileys Champion Cow which returns to the Virginia Show on August 24th. Pictured is Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Martin Heydon with Richard Whelan, President, IHFA, Aoife Murphy, Director Ingredients, Glanbia Ireland, Robert Murphy, Diageo Baileys and Laurence Feeney, Chief Executive, IHFA, along with Donal Brady, Vice President of Virginia Show. Interested Holstein Friesian breeders can contact Brendan Smyth on 087-2560952 for details on how to enter.

63rd Anniversary Special Sale of Heifers Also Bullocks, Dry Cows, Weanlings & Suckler Cows 32 pens of Heifers on offer ----------------------

Friday, July 22nd at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks Also Heifers, Dry Cows, Weanlings & Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, July 18th ----------------------

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

Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m.

Entries are now open for the €10K Diageo Baileys Champion Cow which returns to the Virginia Show on 24th August 2022. This top dairy livestock competition is sponsored by Diageo, the makers of Baileys Irish Cream and Glanbia Ireland. Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Martin Heydon officially launched the competition at Diageo Baileys in Dublin. Pictured with him is Yvonne Kilkenny, Virginia Show Committee; Brendan Smyth, the Competition Director and Laurence Feeney, Chief Executive of IHFA.

up to €3.74 per kilo.

Please note that weanlings will be sold on Fridays in conjunction with bullocks, heifers, and dry cows.

There will be a show and sale of weanlings (born between July 1st and December 31st 2021) on Tuesday, August 9th.

There were similar numbers on offer this week’s sheep sale with a dip in trade for spring lambs.

Lambs made as much as €156 for 52.3kgs and stag ewes fetched up to €216.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. The next sheep sale for lambs and cast ewes is on Wednesday, July 20th at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www.livestocklive.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: AA 940kgs €2680, Char 855kgs

– Gates close at 10 a.m.

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

Date for your Diary Saturday August 6th – Opening Sale for

Roscommon MART WATCH Numbers on offer were similar to the previous week with a firm trade for all classes. Bullocks made from an average of €2.98 per kilo up to €3.77, dry cows ranged from an average of €2.61 up to €2.89 with buyers active both online and at ringside.

This Friday, the mart will host a 63rd Anniversary Special Sale of Heifers as well as bullocks, weanlings, suckler cows and dry cows.

There was a good entry of excellent quality weanlings on offer at our special sale on Tuesday last with a brisk trade for both bulls and heifers. Customers were actively bidding both online and at the ringside.

Weanling heifers made from an average of €2.92 per kilo up to a maximum of €7.46 for a BBX weighing 335kgs and fetching €2,500. Weanling bulls made from an average of €2.88 per kilo

Your Proud Representative For Roscommon-Galway

€2420, Lim X 820kgs €2320, Lim 810kgs €2260, Lim X 785kgs €2200, Simm X 750kgs €2120, Char X 760kgs €2100, HEX 720kgs €1880, Lim X 685kgs €1960, Lim X 635kgs €1840, Char X 760kgs €2100, Lim X 665kgs €1760.

Bullocks: Char X 775kgs €2500, Char X 845kgs €2500, Lim X 825kgs €2500, 2 Lim X 725kgs €2480, Char X 615kgs €2320, 3 Lim X 596kgs €2050, 2 Char X 580kgs €2030, 2 Lim X 565kgs €2020, Char X 585kgs €1990, 3 Char X 486kgs €1520, Lim 515kgs €1700, 2 Char X 482kgs €1560, Char X 480kgs €1570, 2 AAX 647kgs €1900, 4 AAX 675kgs €1870, 2 Lim X 367kgs €1000, 2 Lim X 395kgs €1030, Weanling heifers: BBX 335kgs €2500 – €7.46 per kilo, Char X 400kgs €1300 - €3.25 per kilo, Char X 440kgs €1230 - €2.79 per kilo, Lim X 295kgs €1150

- €3.89 per kilo, Lim X 330kgs €1100 - €3.33 per kilo, 6 Char X 426kgs €1500 - €3.51 per kilo, Lim X 295kgs €1150 - €3.89 per kilo, BBX 290kgs €870 - €3 per kilo, 4 Char X 270kgs €930 €3.44 per kilo.

Weanling bulls: Char X 590kgs €1650 - €2.79 per kilo, Char X 430kgs €1430 - €3.30 per kilo, 3 Char X 381kgs €1400 - €3.66 per kilo, Lim X 405kgs €1360 - €3.35 per kilo, BBX 370kgs €1230 - €3.32 per kilo, Lim 355kgs €1330 - €3.74 per kilo, Char X 390kgs €1180 - €3.02 per kilo, 2 Char X 317kgs €1110 €3.49 per kilo.

Spring lambs: 52.3kgs €156, 56kgs €156, 48.1kgs €156, 50kgs €154, 49kgs €153, 48kgs €153, 50.8kgs €151, 47kgs €151, 45.8kgs €149, 46.7kgs €149, 46.2kgs €146, 45kgs €145, 43.8kgs €140, 42.6kgs €136, 38.5kgs €132, 38.5kgs €128.

Breeding Ewes & Hoggets Tuesday, August 9th - Show & Sale of Autumn Born Weanlings

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

Learn to drive with

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551

38

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Business

Roscommon companies urged to ‘Grow Remote’

Roscommon companies have been called on to ‘Grow Remote’ to play their part in helping Ireland to meet its national climate action targets in a profitable and sustainable way.

Communications Manager for social enterprise, Grow Remote, Kathy McKenna says businesses can reap proven benefits from

going remote.

“Not only can implementing a remote working model in your business lead to increased profitability and significant cost savings, it can be a powerful tool for local impact and social change on a wider scale,” she said.

“By transitioning to a remote working model,

your business can reap the proven benefits of increased employee productivity, reduced illness and absence, the opportunity to hire from a larger talent pool and lower staff turnover - all of which have a significant impact on your bottom line”.

According to Grow Remote, Government data,

contained in the recently published ‘An Evaluation of the Impacts of Remote Working’, estimates that remote working has the potential to save almost 165,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year.

“In these times of worrying inflation, there are also potentially major cost savings in terms of allow-

ing your company to move away from having to run one or many commercial premises, and reducing your spend on costs such as electricity, heating, cleaning, security, and more,” Kathy McKenna added.

“We don’t know exactly what form they’ll take, but widespread carbon emis-

sions rules, restrictions and reporting obligations for companies of all sizes seem inevitable if we are to have any chance of meeting our climate change targets on a national level.

“Experts in this field predict that if Roscommon businesses plan now to reduce their overall carbon footprint - including the

opportunity to go remote - they will experience far less disruption in the future”.

Towns and villages in Roscommon have been invited to host the third Grow Remote conference which is set to take place in April 2023. Visit growremote.ie/ nominate for more information.

Minister McGrath in Athlone for pre-Budget business breakfast Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Michael McGrath addressed business leaders at a prebudget business breakfast meeting in the Sheraton Hotel Athlone on Thursday last (7th). Hosted by Athlone Chamber of Commerce and RBK Chartered Accountants, the timing of the event coincided with the publication of the Summer Economic Statement.

At last Thursday’s event, Minister McGrath commended the Technological University of the Shannon on their vital role in attracting of small medium enterprises as well as large multinational corporations to the midlands region.

The Minister also acknowledged IDA Ireland for the part they played in the continued support of Irish businesses. He said this could be seen by the extension of the IDA centre in Athlone as well as the announcement of 250 new jobs by Ericsson and 180 new jobs by PPD in the last 3 months.

Also in attendance was the President of Athlone Chamber of Commerce, Alan Shaw, who commented: “Business has for a long time now, been struggling to adapt to the ‘shock-prone’ world in which we find ourselves. The key issues that we need the Government to address are housing, talent, and energy. We need the Government to act strategically and decisively in finding solutions and steering us away from crisis and towards prosperity”.

The event was closed by Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Robert Troy, who praised the local business community and its resilience in the past number of months and highlighted the government’s commitment to the growth of Athlone and its surrounding regions.

Brian Feeney, Partner at RBK Chartered Accountants, commented after the event, stating: “It was great to hear from Minister McGrath on preparations for the upcoming Budget 2023 and for the opportunity to input into the budgeting process from a business perspective.

“The Minister provided an honest assessment of the ongoing challenges faced by business owners in the midlands and was reassuring in that this increase of Government spending would be beneficial to all”.

Granahan McCourt CEO and NBI Chairman David McCourt.

NBI attracts long-term telecoms investor

(Above) Pictured (left to right) at last Thursday’s pre-Budget business breakfast at the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone were Brian Feeney, Partner, RBK, Minister Michael McGrath, Alan Shaw, President, Athlone Chamber, and Minister Robert Troy.

(Right) Pictured (left to right) at last Thursday’s pre-Budget business breakfast at the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone were Gerry McInerney, CEO, Athlone Chamber of Commerce, Minister Michael McGrath, and Minister Robert Troy.

Pictured (left to right) at last Thursday’s pre-Budget business breakfast at the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone were David Gleeson, Partner, RBK, Minister Michael McGrath, Joe Cleary, Managing Partner, RBK, and Brian Feeney, Partner, RBK.

Granahan McCourt, the company behind National Broadband Ireland (NBI) has this week announced a partnership with Spanish group Asterion Industrial Partners, a pan-European long-term infrastructure investments manager, to deliver Ireland’s National Broadband Plan.

Agreement has now been reached for Asterion to acquire the interests held by Oak Hill Advisors, Twin Point Capital and certain minorities; this will see Asterion and Granahan McCourt take on all responsibilities and guarantees in accordance with the Project Agreement. Granahan McCourt, and management will retain their current interests in NBI. Commenting on the partnership, Granahan McCourt CEO and NBI Chairman David McCourt said: “In Asterion, we welcome a hugely respected partner with decades of experience in telecoms infrastructure that will not only help us deliver on this extremely ambitious project, but also bring long term commitment to Ireland, which has always been our stated aim.

“At Granahan McCourt, we are delighted to be partnering with Asterion, not only in NBI, but with additional investment committed to develop a centre of excellence in Ireland and deliver on our long-term vision to make Ireland globally renowned for telecoms services”.

Winnie Wutte, founding partner of Asterion, added: “We are delighted to partner with Granahan McCourt and

continue to invest in the development of rural fibre infrastructure with NBI, in one of the most ambitious fibre rollouts in the world, providing access to rural, long term and futureproofed connectivity in Ireland.

“We are also excited and committed to the opportunity of creating a centre of excellence in Ireland in partnership with Granahan McCourt to open up tremendous long-term opportunities in the Irish market and further cement its leadership position in the provision of a gigabit society”.

Musa Sönmez, co-head of Europe and partner at Oak Hill Advisors (OAH), commented: “Being part of NBI’s story since its inception and helping to establish the business to become one of the finest open-access wholesale providers in the world has been a privilege.

“We are very confident that NBI will continue to go from strength to strength and deliver this transformational infrastructure for the people of Ireland. We have been proud to partner with Granahan McCourt with investments in Ireland since 2014, and in that time have invested significant amounts of capital to create what we believe are world-class operations that will have a lasting legacy in Ireland. We hope to continue down this path with Granahan McCourt in future collaborations”.

The transaction is subject to Ministerial consent and due process and is expected to close this autumn.

39

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

GOING OUT

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races were John and Helen Earley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Members of the Primrose and Blue Syndicate pictured at Roscommon Races recently. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races were Sheila Beirne, Elaine O’Neill, Sandra and Bernadette King. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh Cian McNally celebrates with his father owner/trainer Ronan McNally alongside jockey Keith Donoghue on board Petrol Head after winning the RE/MAX Team Earley Handicap Hurdle Race at the Roscommon Races.

Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races were Dolores Flynn and Marion Conway. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Roscommon Races were Christy Tully and Gerry Casey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Presentation to Cian McNally, son of owner/trainer Ronan McNally, Petrol Head, who won the RE/MAX Team Earley Handicap Hurdle at Roscommon Races recently. Making the presentation were John Earley, Cathal Meares and Cormac Sheehy from RE/MAX Team Earley Roscommon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Trainer Gavin Cromwell and jockey Luke Dempsey celebrate with winning connections after winning the Knockcroghery Claiming Hurdle at the Roscommon Races.

Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Lynch Flooring sponsored the best turned out horse in each race at the most recent meeting of Roscommon Races.

Pictured are Roscommon Racecourse Manager Michael Finneran and Trevor Finneran, Lynch Flooring.

Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Owners Aisling and Liam Hurley are presented with a hamper after winning The SuperValu Co. Roscommon Ladies’ Day Rated Novice Hurdle with their horse Salvador Ziggy. Making the presentation were local SuperValu personnel (left to right) Anthony Cahill, Padraig Glancy, Bernard Keane and Shane Fleming. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

40

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

PropertyPeople

PSRA Licence No: 003201

NEW TO THE MARKET

Abbeytown, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon F42 YV18

Prime six-bedroomed property with Oates Auctioneers New to the market with Oates Auctioneers is a spectacular six-bedroomed residence, located at Golf Links Road, Roscommon (F42 E263).

The property is situated in Roscommon’s premier residential location adjacent to Roscommon Golf Club, and within walking distance to all town amenities. This spacious property, extending to approximately 4,200 square feet, incorporates a generous

living space. There is an open-plan kitchen with pocket doors leading to a large living room, as well as an exceptional games room with a feature natural limestone fireplace and an elegant sitting room to the front.

The ground floor also features a spacious, fully-fitted utility room with floor to ceiling storage and a family bathroom. On the first floor, there are six bedrooms (all ensuite) and a fully-

serviced office.

Outside, the property boasts manicured grounds with brick paving, wrought iron entrance gates, and railings, as well as a detached garage.

The price region for this property is €850,000.

For more details, contact Oates Auctioneers on 090-6627878, email info@oates.ie, or visit oates.ie/auctioneers.

Unique opportunity to acquire a landmark property located in ‘Abbeytown’, a much sought after mature residential address in Roscommon Town. Situated in a large private site (c. 0.3acres) adjacent to the Abbey Hotel and all town amenities, this substantial property comprises entrance hallway, large sitting room, kitchen, dining room, utility, office and guest w.c. First floor, 4 large bedrooms and family bathroom. There is a large garage attached with spacious parking to front and large private garden to rear.

Viewing strictly by prior appointment with the sole selling Agents.

Price Region: €299,750 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

10 The Spinney, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon F42 E778 Superb family home presented for sale in immaculate condition by its present owners with no expense spared. Spacious property in this established sought after residential area adjacent to the Abbey Hotel and within walking distance to all town amenities including Railway station. Accommodation consists of 5 bedrooms (2 en-suite) includes en-suite ground floor bedroom, sitting room, kitchen, dining room, utility and family bathroom. Outside, manicured grounds with private rear garden and steel shed.

Viewing is recommended.

Price Region: €350,000 BER Rating: C2 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET c. 14 acres of land

Cloonsellan, Ballymurray, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

RE/MAX Team Earley close sale on landmark hotel

This week, RE/MAX Team Earley are pleased

to advise that they have closed the sale of a fine

MEADOW TO LET CIRCA 45 ACRES AT CARNAKIT, TULSK HEAVY CROP FOR HAY OR SILAGE CONTACT: LORCAN EGAN, AUCTIONEER 087-6521271

commercial property in Ballinasloe (formerly Hayden’s Hotel).

This historical property is renowned for hosting weddings and other functions, and has been a well-known music venue over the years. The property is in need of full modernisation, which, when completed, will no doubt breathe new life back into the centre of Ballinasloe town, known as the gateway to the west.

The BER rating for this property is G. The solicitor with carriage of sale

was Brian O’Brien of Messrs Byrne Carolan Cunningham, Athlone.

The auctioneers are currently looking for similar properties in all areas for cash buyers.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact RE/ MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley. ie. Contact auctioneer Cormac directly on 0863519492 or Cathal on 086-1409158.

c. 14 acres of good quality lands located in a popular residential area adjacent to Portrunny Bay. The said lands are in one block with access to the River Hind. There are a number of cut stone out offices situated on the lands which are located just off the Roscommon/Athlone route, 10 miles from the towns of Roscommon and Athlone.

Price Region: POA ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BARGAIN OF THE YEAR NEW TO THE MARKET

Main Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon F45 TH22

Substantial 8 bedroom investment property located in the centre of Elphin Town and connected to all mains services. Ideal property for redevelopment with large site area c. 0.75 acres holding huge potential The property is in need of refurbishment and comprises former public house with separate commercial unit, 8 bedrooms, sitting room, living room, kitchen, utility and bathroom.

This property is priced to sell with immediate enquiries advised.

Price to sell: € 75,000

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

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

41

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

PropertyPeople

PSRA Licence No. 004420

FINAL OFFERS INVITED PRIME QUALITY LANDS APPROX. 23.8 ACRES LOCATED AT

CARROWNALASSAN & CARROWBOY, FOUR MILE HOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON Prime quality lands located just off the N61 comprised in folios RN13719 and RN1816.

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

Final offers invited.

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

Cathal 086 1409158

Cormac 086 3519492

FOR SALE SUPERIOR 4 BEDROOM, DETACHED RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

22 HYDE COURT, ROCOMMON F42 NY38 AMV: €395,000

This exclusive detached residence is located in a prestige location in the exclusive Hyde Court development.

Comprising briefly of entrance hallway, large reception room, kitchen, utility, dining room, sittiing room, bedroom and wc.

First floor: 3 bedrooms in all with master bedroom ensuite and family bathroom.

Exceptional exterior and interior finish throughout complimented by a tarmacadam driveway and mature gardens. Just a few minutes walk from the beautiful natural setting that is Mote Park.

On your doorstep is the impressive Roscommon Golf Club and close by is Dr. Hyde Park the home of local GAA, Roscommon University Hospital and Hannons Hotel.

Seldom do properties of this quality come on the market and viewing comes highly recommended by the auctioneers.

Viewings strictly by appointment only.

NEW TO THE MARKET

FOR LEASE

3 BEDROOM COTTAGE STYLE RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

RETAIL UNIT

BALLYCREGGAN, KILTOOM, CO. ROSCOMMON N37 N201

1A STONECOURT CENTRE, THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TOWN F42 KV80

AMV: €195,000

A beautiful 3-bedroomed cottage style residence of approx. 999.97 sq.ft is situated on approx. 0.51 acre site.

This compact home is filled with light and will make a fantastic first home or house to downsize too. Ample garden surrounds this home that is set down a quiet lane less than 5 miles from Athlone Golf Club and 3 miles from Bealnamullia and just 7 miles from Athlone Town.

A primely located commercial unit of approx 700 sq.ft located in the busy Stonecourt development on the Town Square and benefiting from ample free car parking facilities at the rear of Stonecourt.

The said unit would suit various commercial pursuits due size and location and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all enquiries for letting.

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

42

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

NEW TO MARKET

Residence & Outbuildings on c.51.25 Acres (3 Lots) at

Corbally West & Moheedian, Elphin, Co. Roscommon. F45 CX81 Lot 1: 3 b/r residence in good condition standing on c. 43.85 Acres of prime lands with extensive range of outbuildings/stables totalling c. 6,466 sq. ft and internal road servicing all paddocks.

Lot 2: c. 3.40 Acres with outbuildings/stables Lot 3: c. 4 Acres of lands at Moheedian Lot 4: Entire property (Residence and outbuildings/stables on c. 51.25 Acres)

NEW TO MARKET

Cloghnashade, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon.

2 Cottages - €65,000 Each

F42 XY02 *BER EXEMPT

F42 EA49

43

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Classifieds

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

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

BOUNCY CASTLES

087 2223368 CHIMNEY CLEANING

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

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

Telephone:

087 2798704

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

Fireplaces, Stoves, Ranges etc.

Modern Rotary Chimney Cleaning equipment used from the bottom up. Much cleaner than brushes, CCTV check if required.

Areas covered: Castlerea, Strokestown, Elphin, Castleplunkett, Tulsk, Lanesboro, Roscommon Town, Killashee, Carrickon-Shannon, Scramogue, Rooskey, Kenagh, Tarmonbarry, Ballymahon and all surrounding areas.

No climbing on roofs, tiles or slates, no mess, no fuss.

Fully Registered.

Call Dave on

085 8888833

CHIROPODIST

COUNSELLING

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

Provided in the comfort of your own home Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

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

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

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

NO FIX NO FEE

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal.

Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance.

Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

CONSTRUCTION

Stephen Casey

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

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Online counselling available. email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

web: www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

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

DRIVING LESSONS

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver.

GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon.

David Connor

VHI and Laya Covered

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

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

Please call Glynis on

l

CHIROPRACTOR

COUNSELLING

Mobile:

FARMING

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

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

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

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

Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on

087 2860428

Phone:

All sprayers tested in 2016/2017 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Round and square bales of hay for sale, Derrane area. Phone: 087 2727888 < FOR SALE: Round and square bales of good green hay. Suitable for sheep or horses, Four Mile House area. Phone: 089 4570303 < FOR SALE: Round bales of hay, good quality bales, saved without rain. Athlone area. Phone: 087 6810731 < FOR SALE: 10x6 Tipping trailer also a weed licker and transport box, tonne bags of timber, PZ Hay bob. Phone: 087 7733181

087 2721193

Mop & Mow

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

Ballaghaderreen Garden & Property Services l Grasscutting l Strimming/ Brushcutting l Hedge cutting l Weeding/spraying l Light chainsaw work l Cleaning l Pressure washing Husband and wife team offering the help you need at a price you can afford Email: mopandmow@ icloud.com Telephone: 085 868 4169

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

GATELY GARDENING

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

FENCING/GATES

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Des Kelly Fencing

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

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

087 2346364 FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

GARDENING

l l

For all your fencing needs.

GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

Tel: 087 2172281

• 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.parklaw treeservices.com

Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults.

Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

Can we help you?

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

44

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Joanne Sullivan and Calum Harris are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following: 1) Upgrade existing septic tank with new proprietary treatment system and tertiary treatment unit along with all ancillary site works at Carraghs West, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon, F45YD66.

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

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0878228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Architectural Designs – Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Darragh Kenny and Estefania Vázquez, intend to apply for permission for development at this site; Culliaghmore, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

The development will consist of construction of dwelling house and effluent treatment system along with associated site works.

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

Signed: Big Red Barn Ltd. Foxford Rd, Swinford, Co. Mayo, F12 P970 www.bigredbarn.ie Office: 094 900 2931

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Michelle Walsh and John Ryan intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the demolition of existing dwelling house, fuel store and part of farm shed, construction of a replacement dwelling house, domestic garage/fuel store, proprietary treatment system, percolation area and associated works at Cornaseer, Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway T:090 6624681 M: 087 635 8949 E: stephen@sbarchitect.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Mary Keoghan intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to erect a new porch to front of dwelling house, and all associated works at No 13, The Rookery, Bellanamullia, Scramogue, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. the planning authority subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Mary Keoghan

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Tim and Annette Daire intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct two storey dwelling, domestic garage, connect to existing public sewer by way of pumping station on site, associated site development works and services at Ballindrumlea, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449

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

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

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: Land to let for Hay/Silage near Mount Talbot. Phone: 083 4840263 < TO LET: 3 bed bungalow with kitchen, sitting room, dining room. Large garden. 20 minutes from Athlone or Ballinsloe, 10 mins of dual carriageway.

Rent €1,250 per month.

Available furnished or unfurnished.

Apply to: cornafullahouse@ gmail.com

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.

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

USEFUL SERVICES

< TAROT READING: Would you like to know what your future holds for you, all questions answered. Have a Tarot reading with Kerry Lee, based near Glenamaddy.

Tel: 089 4256426

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS:

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

PODIATRIST

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas)

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

Electrician Available

For all foot ailments

Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

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

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p086255315@gmail. com

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

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

• 20 years experience 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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

TAROT READING

TOP QUALITY TURF 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver.

Phone:

083 0684011

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

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn.

We are safety certified and insured.

Phone:

086 2437376 < TURF FOR SALE: Top quality black turf for sale.

Delivery available to Creggs, Fuerty and Roscommon Town area. Contact Mark: 087 3453560

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

The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!

The local paper!

l

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Call Mike

087 2478609 Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed?

If so ring:

087 9657933 or 090 66 33084

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: EMAIL:

090 66 34633

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

45

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Classifieds

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

USEFUL SERVICES

USEFUL SERVICES

HOME MAINTENANCE

PROFESSIONAL KITCHEN CABINET PAINTER AVAILABLE

< PAINTER & DECORATOR AVAILABLE: For all your painting needs, keen and competive prices. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802

Midwest Painters l ROOFS

washed and painted l DRIVEWAYS washed and sealeed l AGRI/FARM SHEDS washed and painted All work guaranteed Fully insured

Telephone 083 2070158

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

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

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL !

094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

TARMACADAM

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES LANGAN David 11 St. Ciarans Park, Roscommon Who passed away on the 20th of July 1993 (29th Anniversary)

KILLIAN (nee Mannion) Anna Hollywell, Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

087 6758874

083 8838022

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120

C&G Quarries Williamstown, Co. Galway

Tel: 087 2601639

READYMIX CONCRETE

Suppliers of Maintenance - Pea Gravel - 804 l Broken and Round Stone l Drainage Chip l Washed Sand

l

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

086 4679798

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

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

Phone JOHN

Plumbing & Maintenance

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS CONTACT HAZEL

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

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

USEFUL SERVICES

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

COVERING ROSCOMMON AREA TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815 <SOCIAL DANCING: Every Friday night in An Bothar Rua, Elphin with live music from 9.30pm til late. This Friday night John Molloy.

Dance class from 8.30pm. Tel. 087 9809432

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

087 9795226

July it comes with sad regret, it brings a day we will never forget.

You closed your eyes without goodbye, fond memories of you will never die.

God took you home, it was his will, but in our hearts you liveth still.

Always sadly loved and remembered by his wife Kathleen, daughters Jackie, Ena, Claire, Sharon and sons David and Thomas, daughters-in-law, sons-inlaw and grandchildren Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Wednesday, 20th July at 11am.

SMYTH Eithne Weekfield, Roscommon.

In loving memory of Eithne, who passed away on the 20th July 2004.

R.I.P. (18th Anniversary)

The very best this world could hold, a smile for all a heart of gold.

Never selfish, always kind, these are the memories you left behind.

We pray that God has given you the peace you’ve truly won.

Always sadly missed by your loving husband Johnnie.

Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Sunday, 17th July at 11am.

In loving memory of a dear mother and grandmother who passed away on 12th July 2021.

A beautiful nature, a heart of gold, your loss to us can never be told.

A special Mother we can never replace, no verse, no flowers, no tears can say, how much you are loved and missed everyday.

Loved and remembered by your family, Aine, John, Inga, Adam, Eadaoin and May. First Anniversary Mass for Anna will be held in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, 16th July at 7pm.

FLYNN Clare

O’DONOVAN Paddy and Margaret Park Head, Celtic Avenue, Roscommon (42nd and 6th Anniversaries)

Treasured memories of our dear parents and grandparents.

Paddy who passed away on 25th June, 1980 and Margaret who passed away on 14th July, 2016.

No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts is always kept for you.

Always loved and remembered by Mary, John, Anne, Paul, Simon, Eoin and Tara.

KELLY Elsie Tobberavaddy, Athleague, Co. Roscommon 9th Anniversary away from home - 15th July, 2022

Mountdillon,Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our darling daughter and sister Clare, who died on 16th July 2017

Your wings were ready Clare, but we were not.

Sadly missed by your loving family and friends.

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The years have passed very quickly I wish I could tell you all the times I’ve longed to hear you tell a yarn or one of your jokes.

So many tales to tell you and so many momentous occasions without you.

You’re not forgotten, Mam dear, nor ever shall you be, as long as life and memory last, we will remember thee.

No one knows the silent heartaches, only those who have lost can tell of the grief that’s borne in silence.

To say Mam we love you and we always will of how you are missed and how we have grown and all of the children that are missing you so.

Our memories of you we will keep near and pass them on to those who are dear.

You’re so wonderful to think of but so hard to live without.

We miss you from your fireside chair, your loving smile and gentle air.

Your vacant place no one can fill, we miss you Mam and always will.

Always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts.

Loved and missed every day, her loving sons and daughters, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Elsie’s Anniversary Mass is on Sunday, 17th July, 2022 at 11.30am in Castlecoote Church.

Also remembered at this time our dear father Pat and our brothers Frank and Paddy, may they Rest in Peace.

46

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KELLY Jimmy Killinordan, Scramogue, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 17th July 2021

REGAN Willie Joseph

HANLEY Padraic

REYNOLDS Marion

Ishlawn, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 17th July 1982

6, Shannon Heights, Ballyleague Who passed away on the 17th of July 2016 (6th Anniversary)

Knockhall, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear mother and grandmother, who passed away on July 18th 2021.

R.I.P.

(40th Anniversary) R.I.P.

On the First Anniversary of the passing of Jimmy, his sons Padraig and John, daughters Mary Teresa and Martina, daughter-in-law Ita, sons-in-law Joe and JP, grandchildren and extended family would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on the sad loss of our dear Dad. We remember with gratitude everyone who visited our home, those who stood on the route of his final journey and outside the church for his Funeral Mass and burial. Your presence was much appreciated.

Thanks to all who sent mass cards, phoned, sent text messages expressed condolences online, travelled long distances and to all who could not attend and watched the funeral service online.

Our sincere thanks to Paramedic Fintan, Ambulance Crew, An Garda Siochana and Nowdoc for their support and professional assistance.

A special thanks to Fr. Jaroslaw Maszkiewicz for celebrating a beautiful Funeral Mass which was a touching celebration of his life. Andrew and Emer Reynolds for enhancing the ceremony with their lovely music and singing, the gravediggers, stewards and Cox’s Steakhouse for the food.

Thanks to Aidan Tully Funeral Undertaker for his support and guidance, and the dignified and professional way he carried out the funeral arrangements and Nicola for live streaming the Funeral Mass.

A very special word of thanks to Geraldine, Declan, Irene and Margaret, Marty and Geraldine and all of Dad’s neighbours for all their support and providing refreshments.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deep appreciation and thanks.

Mass will be offered for your intentions.

First Anniversary Mass for Jimmy will be celebrated in St. Anne’s Church, Scramogue on Sunday, 17th July at 10am.

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 Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card. We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage.

The local paper!

There is always a face before me, a voice I would love to hear, a smile I will always remember of a brother I love so dear.

Deep in my heart lies a picture, more precious than silver or gold of my brother Willie whose memory will never grow old.

Always in our hearts and sadly missed by your brother Bartley, sister-in-law Josephine, nephew John, niece Breege, grandniece Lisa and grandnephew Nathan William. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Silent memories keep us near, as time unfolds another year.

Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our hearts your memory lives on.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by your brother Noel and family. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Time and years slip gently by but the love and memories will never die.

Happy thoughts of times we had together, will hold memories that will live in our hearts forever.

Sadly missed by your loving sister Eileen Gannon (Roscommon) and family.

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

Dear Padraic, Gone but not forgotten.

It broke our hearts to lose you but you did not go alone, for part of us went with you the day God welcomed you Home.

Always loved and missed by your mam Kathleen, dad Patsy, sister Marie and brother Alan.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 16th July in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague at 7pm.

NAUGHTON Maurice (11th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of Maurice Naughton late of No. 5 St. Theresa’s Tce, Roscommon who died on 17th July 2011

THANKSGIVINGS UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Say for nine days and publish. A.M.K.

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

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed Our thoughts are always with you, your place no one can fill.

In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still.

Email or call for Sample Pack

Sadly missed and always remembered by her sons, Johnny and Charlie, daughters Attracta and Anita, sons-in-law Paul and Cathal, grandchildren Sean, Claire, Isibeal and Lucy.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 16th July in The Church of the Sacred Heart, Kilglass at 1pm.

MURPHY Mary Four Roads, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

A silent thought, a quiet prayer for someone special in God’s care.

Always remembered by his loving family.

Anniversary Mass for Maurice will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 16th July at 11am.

THANKSGIVINGS

In loving memory of a dear wife, mother and grandmother who passed away on 15th July 2020.

Memories are precious they don’t fade away, we remember you always not just today.

Although we sadly miss you, we are not alone, for you are watching over us from a place you now call home.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her loving husband, sons, daughter, grandchildren and daughters-in-law.

Anniversary Mass in The Church of The Good Shepherd, Four Roads, Roscommon on Sunday, 17th July at 11am.

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

FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

47

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Classifieds

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

Appointments CHILDCARE WORKER

Minimum qualifications FETAC Level 5 Closing date for applications is 5pm on Thursday 28th July 2022

Please apply with CV to: - The Chairperson Email: ballygarplayschool@gmail.com

Required in Roscommon Town, this is a part - time position.

Applicants must have fluent English and a professional phone manner.

Must also be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.

Contact: 087 7496334 between 9.30am - 5.30pm

Vacancies at the Technological University of the Shannon Applications are invited for the following positions in TUS Athlone campus:

Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to

• Senior Polymer Research Engineer • Polymer Research Engineer

090 66 34633

D – WEST REGION

CTUAL DISABILITIES BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES IRELAND WEST REGION Applications are invited for the following positions:

SOCIAL CARE WORKERS Adults East Roscommon Services E SUPPORT WORKER (Strokestown, Tulsk, Elphin, Ballinagare areas)

7 day duty roster)

(Ref: 150/2022)

VARIOUS CONTRACT TYPES Permanent Full-Time & Part-Time Contracts Temporary Full-Time & Part-Time Contracts

We require creative and motivated people who have a positive attitude towards priate working to the with fieldpersons of intellectual with an intellectual disability. In return for this dedication and commitment we offer the following: xperience of working with people • Competitive Rates of Pay – please click on below link to view HSE pay scales. trum. https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/benefits-services/pay/pay-scales.html • Excellent working conditions, including family friendly leave arrangements & flexible working hours. for individuals supported by –the • Defined Benefit Pension Plan Single Public Service Pension Scheme (SPSPS) • Sports and Social Clubs aspects of daily living focusing on • Opportunities for further career development opment of skills Training at all times.

The • Exceptional and Development • Employee Assistance Programme ervice with development of their(EAP)

To apply,to applicants canPeople view the full job description and make an application and critically, support on-line by logging on to the Brothers of Charity Services website at y life of www.brothersofcharity.ie/galway the community through and completing the Application Form and

and

Email: silveira911@gmail.com

Roscommon & District Football League Community Employment Scheme RDFL Community Employment Scheme are looking to recruit Soccer Coaches for Primary Schools throughout the County and surrounding catchment areas. l 19.5 hours weekly. l No experience necessary, full training provided for coaches. l Excellent opportunity to retrain or upskill by availing of a variety of accredited courses. l Own transport required. l Garda Vetting will apply. l Eligibility to participate on CE is generally linked to those who are 21 years or over and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for 1 year or more or 18 years and over for certain disadvantaged groups.

Applicants should contact the case office in the local Intreo office to confirm eligibility.

or alternatively call

s

STONE MASONS We are looking for highly skilled restoration professional Stone Masons for old restoration work. l High rates of pay to proper candidate. l 4 vacancies available. l Must be over 25 years.

Further details and online application forms are available at www.ait.ie/vacancies.

advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

lowing post:

SITUATIONS VACANT

OFFICE ADMIN ASSISTANT

Ballygar Community Pre-School require a

submitting an updated CV.

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms /CV’s online is 5pm Friday 22nd July 2022 written English is anof essential (Short listing applications may apply. Canvassing will disqualify.

Panels may be formed as a result of the interview process)

The BrothersWorker of Charity Services Ireland, West Region, is an Equal Opportunities Employer ubsequent Support ade over the next 6 months.

For further details please email: roscommonsoccer@yahoo.co.uk or write to: Roscommon & District Football League CE Scheme Culleen, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

Waldron and Associates Engineers and Architects

The Square, Claremorris, Co. Mayo

VACANCY

We are a small multidiscipline Engineering and Architectural practice who specialise in: • The Design and Project Management of industrial, commercial and government projects • Housing developments • Once off housing design • Digital Surveying and Mapping Our vacancy is for a suitably qualified person capable of: • Preparing CAD drawings and processing planning, Fire and DAC applications.

• Undertaking Digital Surveys and the preparation of conveyancy maps If interested please apply with full CV to Waldron and Associates, The Square, Claremorris.

E-mail address: info@waldrons.ie

LOCALLY OWNED ...

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

< CHILDCARE ASSISTANT: Required for a childcare service in Ballygar area.

Childcare qualification essential minimum level 5. Flexible hours. First Aid trained an advantage. Send CV and cover letter to: bzbees22@gmail.com

SITUATIONS WANTED < KEEN TO CLEAN: Years of experience, you relax while I do your house keeping, windows, floors, fridges, cookers, dusting, ironing, change bed linen etc. Don’t delay book me today. Phone: 089 2607391 < AVAILABLE: Two teenage boys available for saving turf, odd jobs and lawn mowing in Roscommon area. Contact: 086 3859274 < RETIRED GENERAL NURSE: Looking to provide part-time home care. For further information call Angela 089 2186693 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 non-publication.

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.

48

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

AtYourService BLINDS

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

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

FARMING

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

TEL: (090) 96 88606

F42 W294

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

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

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

Daily collection

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

Spare Parts Counter in our Showroom where we stock most brands of PVC Window & Door Parts.

Hinges, Handles, Locks, Seals, Door Cylinders, Shop Door Parts

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

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

Chimney Problems

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

Do you want to increase the security of your home? l Enhance the look of your home and garden? l Keep pets and children secure and safe?

Western Side Gates are specialists in manufacturing and fitting side gates and shed doors. All our gates are pressure treated and made to last. l

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

l

DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School

Call Bernard on: 085 2274806 Email: westernsidegates@gmail.com Or vist: www.westernsidegates.com

Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

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

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

6621220 GENERAL SERVICES

Patios l Decking Houses l Vehicles l Driveways l Caravans l Walls l Gutters l Domestic Cleaning l Roof Cleaning l All Types of Algae Treated l

l

Full & Mini Car Valeting (we come to you) Furniture Removal & Collection l Garden Maintenance l Painting Service Fully Registered & Insured Phone John: l

INSURANCE CLAIMS

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

Contact Pat Hanley on

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Western Side Gates

www.roscommonwindows.ie roscommonwindows@hotmail.com

Chris’s Window Service

Tel: 090

GATES

Telephone: 090 66 33026

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

Lowest price guaranteed

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

085 2113317

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Martin HibbittAPA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt CIP, CDIP

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Mountbellew, Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway

ALL BEING WELL

info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 0879818153 9818153Co. Galway info@mhla.ie Mountbellew, 091 380900 380900 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 || 087 www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 Dip in Loss Certified Dip DipCertified in Loss Loss Certified in Adjusting Adjusting Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Loss Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services

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info@mhla.ie

ApprovedProduct Product Member of the PSAB-GI Approved Member of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Approved Member of Advisor Product Advisor by the Central Advisorwww.mhla.ie Regulated Regulated by Regulated by the the Central Central Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Member of Insurance Bank Member ofofthe the Insurance Bank of of Ireland Ireland Institute Ireland Institute of of Ireland Ireland Institute

Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

Member of the PSAB-GI

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

CARS

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

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

INSULATION

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted.

End of life certs can be provided.

Also scrap metal

Tel: 087 0944027

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness Bonded Cavity & Wall Insulation NewBead Buildings Retrofit Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, Call in SIGA or contact us for free Airtightness advice and quotes New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free

andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial €1,214 to Estate, Galway

€3,500

091 768 768

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CLEANING

Power Washing

PROPERTY Contact Dave:

087 751 3774

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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

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

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

Sports PEOPLE

Weekend of highs and lows!

49

League winners! The Boyle team and management pictured with the silverware following their win over Western Gaels in the O’Rourke Cup final in Ballinameen on Sunday last. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Boyle celebrate league win as Ladies crash out It was a weekend to remember for Boyle’s senior footballers as they captured the O’Rourke Cup following a 0-16 to 0-13 win over Western Gaels in Ballinameen on Sunday (pictured). That impressive

victory will have put a spring in north Roscommon club’s step as they prepare for the senior club championship in the coming weeks.

Oran took the Division Two title with a 3-14 to 0-9 win over Fuerty while the Creggs were awarded the Tansey Cup when they were granted a walkover by Strokestown.

Meanwhile, Western Gaels took home the Division Four title following their 4-15 to 1-17 win

over Oran and Michael Glavey’s are Division Five champions thanks to a 2-13 to 3-8 win against St. Brigid’s.

Elsewhere, there was no luck for the Roscommon Intermediate Ladies as they crashed out of the TG4 All-Ireland semi-final at Crettyard. Player of the match Aisling Murphy’s four goals did the damage as Wexford booked their place in this year’s decider on a scoreline of 6-11 to 1-9.

Huge weekend for golf!

GAA Fixtures

< SEAMUS DUKE

Friday, July 15th U-20 Football Championship Division One (Group B) At: Strokestown: Strokestown v St. Brigid’s. 8 pm U-20 Football Championship Division Two (Group A) At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v St. Ciaran’s. 8 pm U-20 Football Championship Division Three (Section A) (8 pm) At Western Gaels: Western Gaels v Castlerea St. Kevin’s At Kilbride: Kilbride v Kilglass Gaels-St. Barry’s

It’s the biggest weekend in many years for Roscommon Golf Club as their senior men’s and ladies’ teams contest Connacht senior finals in Castlebar Golf Club.

On Saturday, Roscommon will face Galway Golf Club in the final of the Barton Shield, which is a foursomes competition. The pairings representing Roscommon will be Allan Hill and Simon Walker and Thomas Higgins and Cian O’Connor. On Sunday, the men’s team face Athenry in the Senior Cup final (five singles matches) and the team will be chosen from the Barton Cup Shield team plus Tommy Grehan, David Hill, Enda Daly, Alan Connaughton and Keith Evans. The non-playing captain for both senior men’s teams is Phelim Henry.

The senior ladies will face Athenry in the Connacht final and included in the Roscommon team will be Olivia Costello, Ruth Lennon (nee McGuigan) and Blaithin O’Brien. The non-playing ladies captain is Annie Timothy.

Neilan on standby for All-Ireland final

Fresh from his impressive performance in last Sunday’s All-Ireland semi-final between Dublin and Kerry, Roscommon referee Paddy Neilan has been named as a linesman and standby referee for this year’s All-Ireland Senior Football Final between Kerry and Galway at Croke Park.

Sean Hurson from Tyrone will be the man in the middle for the decider on July 24th, with Barry Cassidy from Derry his other linesman and Seán Laverty in charge of the sideline. Mark Coney, Mel Taggart, Cathal Forbes and Martin Conway are set for umpire duties.

GAA Results GC Warehousing New York O’Rourke Cup Division One Final Boyle 0-16 Western Gaels 0-13 Leydon Bros London O’Gara Cup Division Two Final Oran 3-14 Fuerty 0-9 Leydon Bros London O’Gara Cup Division Two Clan na nGael 3-10 Shannon Gaels 1-13 Atlantis IPS Tansey Cup Division Three Final Creggs W/O Strokestown Sidero AFL Division Four Final Western Gaels 4-15 Oran 1-17 Cora Systems AFL Division Five Final Michael Glavey’s 2-13 St. Brigid’s 3-8 Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Four Roads 2-16 St. Dominic’s 0-16 Pádraig Pearses 2-17 Athleague 3-10 Tremane 1-32 Roscommon Gaels 1-14

Down and out: Aisling McAuliffe pictured following Roscommon’s defeat to Wexford in last Sunday’s TG4 All-Ireland Ladies Football Intermediate Championship Semi-Final at Crettyard GAA club, Crettyard, Laois. Pic: Michael P Ryan/Sportsfile. See pages 54 & 55.

Saturday, July 16th AFL Division Four Relegation Play-off At Tulsk: St. Joseph’s v Boyle. 5 pm U-20 Football Championship Division One (Group A) At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Pádraig Pearses.

5 pm U-20 Football Championship Division Two (Group A) At Orchard Park: Elphin-Ballinameen v Michael Glavey’s-Éire Óg. 7 pm U-20 Football Championship Division Two (Group B) At Enfield: Oran-St. Croan’s v Kilmore-Shannon Gaels. 5 pm Sunday, July 17th U-20 Football Championship Division Three (Group B) At Ardcarne Park: St. Michael’s v St. Faithleach’s.

6 pm

50

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

SportsPeople

s t t u p t r o h S

(News from local golf clubs)

Athlone

The Lady Captain’s Prize (Frances McGettigan) takes place this weekend, beginning on Friday (15th) with the ‘Friday Night Club’, a competition for all members followed by a relaxing evening in the clubhouse.

Saturday sees an 18-hole competition for Gents while the main competition takes place on Sunday.

Congratulations to Junior member, Charlie Kelly, who finished runner-up to Thomas Cafferky (Ballinasloe) in the final of the Irish Boys Amateur Close Championships at Greenore on July 1st.

The Pierce Purcell team beat Dunmoe Demesne in the third round while the Junior team defeated Ballinasloe in their second round match. The Ladies’ Challenge Cup team also had a great win against Dunmore Demesne and will face Athenry in the semi-final.

Commiserations to the Jimmy Bruen team who lost out to a very strong Mountbellew side.

Clubhouse winners: AWGS: Padraic McNamara (31 points); Plumbers: A. Byrne (June 27th), B. Fagan (July 4th); Open Wednesday: Men: Michael Downes (41 points), Ladies: Imelda Sheeran (38); Intermediate Scratch Cup: Michael Duignan (81 gross); Minor Scratch Cup: Stephen Cloonan (79 gross); Kevin’s Twos: Micheal O’Faoilean and Denis Hellen; Ladies (July 5th): Clare Campion (46 points); 97 Club: Kathleen McDonnell (32).

Officers and members extend their deepest sympathies to Vincent and Mary Connaire on the recent passing of their son, Kevin. The club also extends sympathy to Eamon Farrell on a recent family bereavement.

Boyle The club’s first Open Week since 2019 concluded on Friday last with a hugely successful Scramble, barbecue, presentation of prizes and social evening.

The club owes a debt of gratitude to its every generous local sponsors and members are asked to return the favour and support local businesses.

The club is also grateful to the Open Week committee of Brendan Gaffney, Gabriel Lavin, Mary O’Hara and Lorcan Egan for their work over the past few weeks.

Open Week winners: Men’s 9-hole: Jonathan Egan (31); Ladies’ 9-hole: Liz Dwyer; 18-hole strokeplay (Ladies’ Day): Kathleen Mahon; Visitors: Ogie Moran (Ballaghaderreen); 9-hole competition: Therese Daly; Men’s 9-hole Stableford (Tuesday): Charlie O’Donnell (22); Men’s 9-hole (Wednesday): Jonathan Egan (20); Mixed Foursomes: Lochlainn Conboy and Kathleen Mahon (60 nett); Ladies’ 9-hole Stableford (Thursday): Phil McWeeney (Carrick); Men’s 18-hole: Gary Carty (40); Scramble (Friday): Tadhg Egan, Pat Conroy, Maria Hamill and Mary Queenan.

Carrick

Jason Loftus was the overall winner of the Gents’ Single Stableford last weekend with an excellent score of 43 points.

Other results: Cat 1: Gordon Kavanagh (41), Cat 2: Jimmy Egan (41), and Cat 3: Luke Creighton (42).

The President’s Prize takes place this Friday and Saturday (15th and 16th) and includes both Ladies’ and Gents’ strokeplay competitions.

Commiserations to the Junior Cup team who went down 4-1 to a strong Strandhill side recently.

Senior competition results: Overall winner: Aidan Sheeran (42 points), Cat 1: Reggie Carroll (40), Cat 2: Charlie Farrell (40), Cat 3: John Burke (36), Front 9: Owen Caulfield (21), Back 9: Leo Kavanagh (23). The next outing is August 8th in Mullingar.

Roscommon The Hollywood Bar competition last Sunday was won by Peter McGarry with 46 points. Seamus Maher was second with 44, Stephen Smith third with 44, while Allan Hill took the gross prize with 43.

Yvonne Waldron won the Ladies’ 18hole competition with 38 points, while Sheila Fallon was second and Veronica Clarke was third. Monica Lennon won the Ladies’ 9-hole competition with 21 points.

Boyle Golf Club Men’s Captain Gabriel Lavin presents Gary Carty with the Open Week Cup.

The Lady Captain’s Day (Ruth Kilduff) is now on Tuesday, and Saturday, July 19th and 23rd. There will also be a Men’s 9-hole competition on the Saturday.

The Men’s Wednesday Open was won

by Conor Mulry with 42 points while C. Grogan won the Seniors’ competition with 43 points. The Senior Ladies’ competition was won by P. McDonnell.

Best wishes meanwhile to the Men’s Barton Shield team who take on Galway in the Connacht final on Saturday morning (16th) in Castlebar.

The Men’s and Ladies’ Senior Cup

Horses for Courses Irish racing this evening is the penultimate meeting of the Killarney Festival over jumps at 5.30 pm with flat racing at Leopardstown featuring the Group 3 Meld Stakes and Imelda May supplies the music in the Bulmers Live Series, first race at 5.15 pm.

Tomorrow sees the closing of the Killarney Festival on the flat at 2.15 pm and another evening national hunt card at Kilbeggan outside Mullingar starting at 5.30 pm.

On Saturday, the Irish Oaks meeting takes place at headquarters in the Curragh, first race at 1.30 pm and featuring the Irish Oaks. Curragh race again on Sunday with two Group 2 races, the Romanised Minstrel Stakes, and the Kilboy Estate Stakes, off at 1.35 pm and over the sticks at Tipperary, away at 1.50 pm.

On Monday, racing returns to County Mayo in the beautiful setting of Ballinrobe with flat racing at 5.30 pm and on Tuesday there is a national hunt evening card.

TV coverage on Saturday is from Newbury on the flat with four races, featuring the Group 3 Hackwood Stakes and three from the national hunt meeting at Market Rasen, featuring the Grade 3 Summer Plate Handicap Chase and the Irish Oaks from the Curragh on ITV and Virgin Media 1. Racing from the Curragh is on RTÉ One on Saturday.

The Epsom Oaks 1-2, Aidan O’Brien’s Tuesday and the Gosden trained Emily Upjohn, head the 11 fillies in the Juddmonte Irish Oaks at the Curragh on Saturday. Tuesday, fourth in the Irish Derby since, is joined by stablemates Emily Dickinson, History, Perotan and Toy. Jessica Harrington has two, Magical Lagoon and Fennela with Ger Lyons’ Cairde Go deo, Paddy Twomey’s Show Of Stars and Joseph O’Brien’s Tranquil Lady completing the field. Tuesday was a disappearing short head in front of Emily John in Epsom, but Tuesday to give O’Brien a seventh Irish Oaks win.

In Newmarket’s Group 1 Falmouth Stakes on Friday, Prosperous Voyage caused a major shock when the 16/1 shot beat 1/7f Inspiral by 1¾l with Sandrine 1l away in third. The winner was ridden by Rob Hornby and provided him with some compensation for losing the ride on Westover in the Irish Derby. He was aboard 14/1 shot Alcohol Free beat who beat Naval Crown and Artorius by 1½l and ½l in the Group 1 July Cup on Saturday. The winner is trained by Andrew Balding.

Hornby was completing a double on the day having ridden Jimi Hendrix for Ralph Beckett earlier.

teams are in action on Sunday against Athenry in their Connacht finals. Best of luck to everyone involved.

Meanwhile, the Ladies’ Intermediate team takes on Co. Sligo on Sunday in their quarter-final.

Finally, congratulations to Allan Hill and Simon Walker who have been selected on the Irish Universities team set for the World University Championships in Turin.

Olivia Costello has also been selected to play in the European Youth Masters in Finland from July 21st to 23rd. Best of luck to everyone.

by Tom Red

Stallons Farms EBF Beginners Chase.

The feature race, The Midland Grand National, was won by the Gordon Elliott-trained Hurricane Georgie at 8/1, ridden by stable jockey Jack Kennedy. The 5-Y-O mare had 13l and ½ l to spare over Popong and Fairyhill Run. The bumper provided some relief for the punters as the 10/11f Spread Boss Ted gave Patrick Mullins another winner for his father Willie with 9l and ¾ l to spare over Down Around and Bowtie. Kilbeggan race again on this Friday.

Racing News

Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore won the Group 1 Prix Jean Prat at Deauville in France on Sunday as Tenebrism returned to winning ways, having dropped to 7f. The filly had disappointed in the 1000 Guineas before finishing fourth behind Inspiral in the Coronation Stakes over a mile at Royal Ascot. Moore completed a treble with Garrus for Charlie Hills and Clive Cox’s Harry Three.

This will be the thirteenth consecutive year in which Tote will sponsor the Tote Galway Plate with a value of €270,000, one of the richest jumps races in Ireland. The Tote, who sponsor the rest of the card, will also offer the Tote Guarantee at the Galway Races for the first time. The Tote will match the SP if it’s higher than the Tote Win pool pay out on all win bets. Tote Guarantee was first launched at Irish racecourses in March at Fairyhouse.

Hollie Doyle, who won this year’s French Oaks, became the first jockey to partner 100 winners in Britain this calendar year on Ed Dunlop’s Society Lion at Wolverhampton on Monday.

Doyle is third on 44, behind her husband, Tom Marquand, 45 and William Buick on 69 in the flat jockeys’ championship.

Next week we will preview the first three days of the Galway Festival including the Galway Plate on Wednesday.

Kilbeggan Review

Competition time

Hurricane Georgie and Jack Kennedy clear the last in the Midlands National.

Racing at Kilbeggan last Friday opened with a mare’s maiden hurdle, won by 100/30 Kilbarry Chianti trained by Con O’Keeffe and ridden by Mark McDonagh.

The Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey Maiden Hurdle provided the bookmakers with a bonus as the 66/1 Whatdoyawanttoknow beat 50/1 Lonesome Day with 22/1 Light Fury third. The winner was trained by Mary Ellen Doyle and ridden by Gavin Brouder.

The handicap hurdle over 3m saw Roscommon winner Petrol Head, 1/2f, beaten by 11/1 shot Sargent Lightfoot, trained locally by Adrian Murray and ridden by Denis O’Regan.

Another 11/1 shot won the Writech Handicap Hurdle when John Ryan’s Waitnsee carried Danny Mullins to victory. O’Regan completed a double on Noel Meade’s Everglow who won the Irish

John Egan, Ballinlough, Marie Keane, Ballymurray and Tom Byrne, Mullingar won tickets for Kilbeggan on Friday, and the answer was Colin Keane won the Irish Derby on Westover. Don’t forget to collect your tickets in the office.

First chance to win tickets for Roscommon on August 2nd when there is a national hunt card and to win tell us what is the main chase in the upcoming Galway Festival called?

Answers as usual please on a postcard to The Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by e-mail to tomred17@ gmail.com by 5 pm, Wednesday, July 27th and as always do not forget to include your name, address, and a contact phone number with all competition entries. As usual, all tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street.

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

SportsPeople Handball

Roscommon hosts Wallball Nationals On the weekend of July 2nd and 3rd, 25 years after Roscommon hosted the very first Onewall Nationals, the county played host to the Wallball Nationals, now the biggest event in the Irish handball calendar.

Back in 1997 even the most optimistic handball people could never have envisioned how big this weekend was going to become. For over a decade, Breaffy House in Castlebar was the very popular venue, but unfortunately this year after a late notification of a double-booking, the disastrous possibility of the event not going ahead loomed large. Thankfully, both Kilglass and St. Coman’s stepped in and despite the short notice and limited preparation, both clubs ran things with superb efficiency and showed the organisational ability of Roscommon Handball in a great light.

On the competitive front, there was some local success also. The Ladies ‘B’ final was an all-Roscommon affair with Siobhan Treacy getting the better of her training partner Carragh Kennedy on a scoreline of 20-11 in the 15-minute game. This young duo have been operating near the top level in all codes for the last few years, so this final pairing was no surprise.

Siobhan’s excellent concentration and ball placement proved the difference on the day.

Strokestown’s Oisin Cusack had a brilliant win in the Men’s ‘C’ event.

The standard in this event was exceptionally high, and at one stage it looked like it was going to be an allCusack final, as Oisin’s brother Fionn had a superb quarter-final win over hot-favourite Kavan O’Keefe from Waterford. However, he was outfoxed in his semi-final by Galway’s Jack McNeela. Learning from Fionn’s mistakes, Oisin restored the family pride with a thrilling and very popular 16-12 final win.

St. Coman’s’ Fiona Tully had an easy win in her Ladies Open quarter-final against Armagh’s Caliosa Ni Dhuill, before running into Cork’s Catriona Casey once again. Despite a very competitive showing, Fiona still has ground to make up on the Ladies supremo, going down 15-29.

Boyle native and long-time Dublin resident, Eugene Kennedy, father of the great Eoin, looked remarkably sprightly for a man over 70 years of age when he took down the 65+ event with a nail-biting 13-12 win over Down’s Brian Havoren.

Kilglass’s Thomas Mahady won out the Men’s Challenger grade, beating opponents from Meath and Monaghan on the way to the final where he had a fine win over Leixlip’s Ciaran Gallogly. A young player of some promise, hopefully this win will encourage Thomas to go onwards and upwards.

Thomas’s sister Natasha also made it to the final of the Ladies Challenger grade, but lost narrowly to Nuala Dunning of Cork.

In the Men’s Masters grade, Kilglass’s John Coggeran had one of the games of the day when his match with Kerry’s John Joe Quirke ended in a 16-16 tie. Unfortunately, John lost out 4-5 in extra-time. John’s brother David lost out to eventual winner James Doyle in the same competition.

John’s daughter Alanna narrowly lost out in the Girls 17&under event to Wexford’s Jodie Keeling in their semi-final.

St. Coman’s’ Eoghan Carthy lost out 18-19 in the Boys 15&under to his old rival Anthony Clifford from Kilkenny in another humdinger, while younger brother Seamie lost out to eventual winner Oisin O’Neachtain in their first round match of the Boys 13&under grade.

Deepest Condolences...

We extend our deepest condolences to Archie Naughton’s family. Archie played with the club and possessed an admirable attitude and ability on the pitch. May he rest in eternal peace.

Recent results...

C’mon The Town

Boys U-18: Roscommon Town 4 Castlerea Celtic 0 (E Neto, K Cummins, C Mulryan, I Ribas); Roscommon Town W/O Shiven Rovers; Boys U-16: Roscommon Town 2 St. Cuan’s United 2 (T Naughton,

Hollywood Bar Superleague round two winner, Mick Egan (right), pictured with runner-up Aaron Shannon following last weekend’s final.

Darts

Egan bounces back!

Mick Egan bounced back from his opening night disappointment to win round two of The Hollywood Bar Superleague last weekend in Roscommon town.

Egan, who lost out to Sean Fleming in the season’s curtain raiser the previous week, was in sparkling form, and also ended the

J Raftery); Roscommon Town 4 St. John’s Athletic 0 (T Naughton (2), J Raftery, R Dunne) Girls U-16: Roscommon Town 0 Shiven Rovers 5; Boys U-14: Roscommon Town I 9 St. John’s Athletic 7 (T Sexton (3), C Kiernan (2), M Shally (2), M Beisty (2); Town III 1 Ballymoe FC 6 (D Hamrock); Shiven Rovers 2 Town II 2 (J McSharry, A Miley) Roscommon Town won on penalties; Girls U-12: Dysart 2 Roscommon Town 1 (M McSweeney); Kilkerrin United 5 Roscommon Town 1 (A Whyte); Boys U-12: Roscommon Town 2 Strokestown United 1; Town I 5 St. John’s Athletic 0; Glen Celtic 7 Town II 1 (M Matuszewski); Town II 2 Shiven Rovers 7 (N Feely, S Martin).

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer) In association with the

The Roscommon Town U-16s who reached the cup final recently.

night with the top finish of 151.

The final itself pitted Egan against young Aaron Shannon, and experience prevailed on this occasion as Mick ran out the 3-0 winner.

Both players had enjoyed impressive runs to the decider with Egan beating Ken Turkington (3-2), Paul

Roscommon Town U-11s’ EL side played St. John’s Athletic with Bobby Lyons, Cillian Butler, Conor Farrell, and Ethan Hanratty grabbing the goals to secure the win.

The CL side lost out to the same opposition. The Town II EL and CL teams played Kilkerrin United.

While the Boys U-9s had a free weekend, the Girls’ teams played away to St. Cuan’s United. The Boys’ U-7s played at home to St. John’s Athletic.

Wise Words...

“You miss one hundred percent of the shots you don’t take” - Wayne Gretzky

Carton (3-0), and Martin Fleming (3-1), and Shannon seeing off Stephen Victory (3-0), Les Rawson (3-0), and Alan Owens (3-2).

The Hollywood Bar Superleague continues on Friday night with the draw taking place from 8.45 pm. Contact David on 086-0823180 for further details.

Player Profile...

Name: Ava Whyte.

Team: U-12s.

Position: Defender.

Strength: Determination.

Weakness: Taking corners.

Three words that describe me: Shy, kind, funny.

Messi or Ronaldo or Neither: Neither.

PlayStation or Xbox or Neither: PlayStation.

Favourite film: Pirates of the Caribbean.

Favourite song: Bad Habits by Ed Sheeran.

What makes me happy: Playing with my brother and sister.

Why I play soccer: Fun, meet new people, and keeps me energised.

Hopes for this season: To improve my soccer skills and to win some trophies.

52

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

SportsPeople Gaelic Football

Boyle claim O’Rourke Cup honours Congratulations to Boyle, who were crowned O’Rourke Cup champions on Sunday when they defeated Western Gaels in the decider in sunny Ballinameen, 0-16 to 0-13, prompting great celebrations for management, players and supporters.

In a competitive encounter, Boyle kept their noses in front throughout,

and were deserved winners.

Meanwhile, the Division Two honours went to Oran, who had a comprehensive win over Fuerty (314 to 0-9). The Division Three title was won by Creggs in a walkover against Strokestown (the latter club had already made preparations for the weekend, and indicated they could not field).

There was a touch of consolation for Division One runners-up Western Gaels when their lads took home the Division Four honours, defeating Oran by 4-15 to 1-17 in the weekend’s highest scoring encounter. That game went to extra-time, as did the Division 5 final between Michael Glavey’s and St Brigid’s, which Glavey’s won by 2-13 to 3-8.

Dylan Kennedy and Cian McKeon pictured racing for the ball during the O’Rourke Cup final between Boyle and Western Gaels in Ballinameen on Sunday.

Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

IN THE FRAME Weekend GAA in photos

Western Gaels’ players, management and supporters celebrate their League Division Four final win at the weekend, 4-15 to 1-17 over Oran. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Family celebrations at the final whistle after Western Gaels won the League Division Four title at the weekend, defeating Oran in a thriller that went to extra-time.

Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Proud of you, Dad! Celebrations at the final whistle after Western Gaels won the League Division Four title at the weekend, defeating Oran. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Boyle supporters Elyse, Florence and Sonny pictured cheering on their dad Marc O’Connor as he played against Western Gaels in the O’Rourke Cup final in Ballinameen on Sunday.

Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

SportsPeople Hurling

Tremane and Four Roads maintain early momentum With the country looking forward to the novelty of a July All-Ireland hurling final – and what’s expected to be an epic clash between three-in-a-row chasing Limerick and perennial challengers Kilkenny – the local club hurling scene is bubbling along nicely.

Early indications are that Tremane have emerged as a form team playing with purpose and a notable ruthlessness in front

of the posts.

Tremane maintained their great start to the Roscommon Senior Hurling Club Championship when they had a big win against Roscommon Gaels in Woodmount on Sunday.

Tremane’s 1-32 to 1-14 win means they’ve scored 5-48 in just two outings.

Meanwhile, Four Roads also made it two wins from two, following up their opening

File photo of Niall Kilroy, who scored 1-7 on Sunday as Tremane continued their impressive start to the 2022 Kepak SHC. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

weekend victory over Roscommon Gaels with a 2-16 to 0-16 win over St. Dominic’s.

In last weekend’s other game, Padraig Pearses made a winning start to their campaign, defeating Athleague by 2-17 to 3-10.

Now attention switches to Croke Park this Sunday and that big clash between Limerick and Kilkenny (3.30 pm). May the best team win!

IN THE FRAME

in photos Weekend hurling

Evie Carr, Maria Duggan, Aoibheann Miley and Mia Lynch are glad the Kepak SHC is up and running!

Photo: Mick McCormack

Great to be back! Hurling supporters Vincent Pierse and Mickey Lohan delighting in post-lockdown hurling!

Photo: Mick McCormack

Athleague cousins, Cian and Will Connaughton, pictured enjoying the club hurling recently.

Photo: Mick McCormack

54

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

SportsPeople

Rossies ruled by Murphy’s Law Hot-shot Aisling leads way as Wexford overpower Roscommon TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final Wexford 6-11 Roscommon 1-9 < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s Laura Fleming is closely marked by Wexford’s Róisín Murphy and Sarah Harding-Kenny during the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final at Crettyard GAA club on Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured prior to Sunday’s TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final were Roscommon captain Laura Fleming, referee Gavin Finnegan (Down) and Wexford captain Róisín Murphy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Disappointed Roscommon manager Ollie Lennon was looking to the positives after a slick, well drilled and very athletic Wexford side crushed his team’s All-Ireland dreams on Sunday.

“From the very start Wexford brought their ‘A’ game today and we struggled to live with them” Lennon told the Roscommon People moments after his team finished on the wrong side of a 6-11 to 1-9 scoreline.

“Maybe in the first 15 minutes we stayed with them and they were only a couple of points ahead, but once the lead went out to nine points by halftime it was always going to be a struggle”.

Lennon agreed that Wexford’s attack, led by Aisling Murphy, was lethal on the day. “They produced a very similar performance against Tyrone (in the quarter-final). We knew that they had quality all over the pitch and they showed that today”.

The Roscommon manager said that his players would be very disappointed. “I think the manner of this defeat

will make them even more disappointed, but look, we have no complaints.

The players have Division Two football to look forward to next year and it has been a good year overall”.

Roscommon’s dreams of an All-Ireland final appearance in Croke Park on the last Sunday in July were well and truly shattered by Wexford in a semifinal which was played in sweltering weather conditions in Crettyard, Co. Laois.

There was brief hope for Ollie Lennon’s team when Fiona Tully crashed home a great goal in the 8th minute, especially when a point two minutes later from Roscommon’s best player, Niamh Feeney, reduced the gap to two. That, however, was as good as it got for Roscommon as Wexford were simply faster, more skilled and quite lethal in front of goal.

The chief Wexford ace was fullforward Aisling Murphy, who is a tremendous footballer. Roscommon simply couldn’t handle her all through.

She scored four goals and two points and was involved in almost all of Wexford’s scores.

After 90 seconds Murphy drilled home her first goal after a superb pass from Bernie Breen. By the 7th minute, Wexford led by 1-4 to 0-1. That great goal from Fiona Tully did give Roscommon some hope, but The Model

Pictured at Sunday’s TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final were members of the Roscommon management team: Tom Lennon, Shane McDermott, John Kennedy, Ollie Lennon and Brian Lennon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

55

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

SportsPeople

Pictured is the Roscommon ladies intermediate football panel that faced Wexford in the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final last Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

County ladies resumed their relentless attacking play and the goals began to flow.

In the 17th minute Catriona Murray converted a penalty after a foul on Kellie Keaveney. With two minutes to the half-time break Aisling Murphy finished a brilliant Wexford move for goal number three, and in injury-time she completed her hat-trick with another super finish. The half-time score was Wexford 4-5 Roscommon 1-5.

There was a big injury blow for Roscommon at half-time. Lisa O’Rourke, who had received a leg injury during the week, was unable to return to the action, and was replaced by Ellen Irwin.

Wexford continued to dominate.

Murphy slotted home her side’s fifth goal in the 43rd minute – a classy finish – Wexford now out of sight.

While the policy was now to hold on to possession and run down the clock, they still pounced for a sixth goal on 59 minutes, courtesy of corner-back Shauna Murphy.

Niamh Feeney was by far Roscommon’s best player. Unfortunately, very few of the other Roscommon players won their individual battles around the field. Aisling Hanly kicked some good frees and there were flashes of good play from Laura Fleming and Roisin Wynne on what was a difficult day for Roscommon. Now preparations will begin for a Division 2 league campaign and another crack at the championship in 2023. *There were some confusing refereeing decisions from Gavin Finnegan, including questionable yellow cards.

Stat Attack

Red cards: 0 Yellow cards: Wexford 2 (Aisling Murphy 49, Catriona Murray 54); Roscommon 1 (Aisling McAulliffe 59) Wides: Wexford 5 (2, first half ); Roscommon 5 (3, first half ) Player of the Match: Aisling Murphy (Wexford) Attendance: 1,000 approx.

Teams & scorers

Wexford: Mary-Rose Kelly; Sarah Harding-Kenny, Aisling Halligan, Shauna Murphy (1-0); Orlagh Kehoe, Roisin Murphy, Clara Donnelly; Kellie Kearney (0-1), Ciara Banville (0-1); Sherene Hamilton (0-1), Catriona Murray (1-2, 1-0 pen, 1 free), Ellen O’Brien; Bernie Breen, Aisling Murphy (4-2), Amy Wilson (0-4, 2 frees). Subs: Aoife Cullen for Hamilton (53), Chloe Fox for Wilson (55), Cathy O’Brien for Harding Kenny (55), Anne Byrne for Kehoe (59).

Roscommon: Helena Cummins; Sinead Kenny, Rachel Fitzmaurice, Rachel Brady; Roisin Wynne (0-1), Aisling McAulliffe, Niamh Feeney (0-1); Lisa O’Rourke, Laura Fleming; Michaela McHugh, Jenny Shine, Fiona Tully (1-0); Aisling Hanly (0-6, 4 frees), Natalie McHugh (0-1), Caroline Conway. Subs: Ellen Irwin for O’Rourke (h/t), Rosie Lennon for Tully (41), Megan Kelly for Brady (45), Niamh Shanagher for M McHugh (51), Lauren Shanagher for Fitzmaurice (51).

Referee: Gavin Finnegan (Down).

Stat Attack Red cards: 0 Yellow cards: Wexford 2 (Aisling Murphy 49, Catriona Murray 54); Roscommon 1 (Aisling McAulliffe 59)

Wides: Wexford 5 (2, first half ); Roscommon 5 (3, first half ) Player of the Match: Aisling Murphy (Wexford) Attendance: 1,000 approx.

Roscommon’s Aisling McAulliffe pictured with Wexford’s Shauna Murphy during the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final on Sunday.

Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon’s Caroline Conway contests possession with Wexford’s Roisin Murphy during the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final at Crettyard, Co. Laois on Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon’s Natalie McHugh tries to elude Wexford’s Shauna Murphy during the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies IFC semi-final on Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

56

Roscommon People Friday 15 July 2022

SportsPeople Western Gaels’ Nathan O’Connor pictured against a high-flying opponent when American visitors San Francisco Youths played a friendly in Frenchpark recently. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

San Francisco team hosted in Frenchpark…

On Wednesday, June 29th, Western Gaels GAA Club welcomed Michael Cunningham’s San Francisco Youths GAA team to the club grounds, where they played a friendly match. As a former star player for the club, Michael Cunningham’s visit was the cause of much celebration.

Pictured is the San Francisco Youths GAA team and management who played against Western Gaels in Frenchpark recently. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Pictured is the Western Gaels GAA team who played against San Francisco Youths in Frenchpark recently. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The American team played a match against Western Gaels U-15 team. Following the match, the group were treated to a delicious meal at ‘Into The West’, where Michael was presented with a signed jersey. He in turn presented his home club with a signed San Francisco Youths jersey.